Bulldog Bulletin

First, there has been some unsafe driving during afternoon carpool. It is important that you do not pull out of the lot until directed, and you should never back out if you are in the back row, as this can lead to accidents. If your child has an appointment, please plan to pick them up from the front office rather than using carpool as an early exit. All families must follow the established safety procedures to ensure a smooth and safe dismissal for everyone. If you plan to stay on the playground with your child as the weather gets warmer, it is helpful to park in the top loop so that you are not blocking the carpool lane.

Second, students in grades 3–5 are now allowed to ride their bikes to school. All students must wear a helmet to and from school or they may lose their biking privileges. Massachusetts law requires all children 16 years of age and under to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle.

Middle School Band, Orchestra, and Chorus welcome ALL students!

For interested Band and Orchestra Students, if you are starting, we'll teach you everything from the very beginning. No experience is needed. If you are already playing? Get ready to work in a full ensemble year-round. And if singing is your thing, please join our award-winning Choral program. Whatever your musical background, there's a place for you here.

Special Opportunities:

Field Trips to the University of New Hampshire, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Into the Game and Mel’s Funway

Regular Guest Artists from UNH, Boston Children’s Chorus, University of Hartford, Gordon College, etc.

Junior Districts

Concerts like Vocal Gala, All Strings Night, and All Bands Night

After School Ensembles: MS A Cappella - Vocalize!, MS Show Choir - Interlude!, Jazz Band, Chamber Orchestra

Students must be enrolled in Band, Orchestra, and Chorus to participate in an after-school ensemble. Exceptions may be made if there is a scheduling conflict.

Website: https://sites.google.com/andoverma.us/the-arts-in-andover/6-8-band-orchestra-and-chorus

Promo Video: https://youtu.be/n8z6NuqI02k

Every year the Andona Foundation offers financial assistance for families with two different programs 1) a limited number of sponsorships for their Clown Town event which will be May 15-17th this year (Clown Town of Andover) and 2) fees assistance for a summer camp (up to $300) through their campership program. To apply for these opportunities, please fill out the appropriate google form below. Further explanation of each program is on the top of each google form. Please note the deadlines.

Clown Town: 2026 Clown Town sponsorship form - due May 4

Campership Assistance: 2026 Andona Campership form - due May 15th

Please reach out to Jen Cann, our social worker if you need assistance or have any questions at jennifer.cann@andoverma.us or 978-247-9704.

Mark your calendars!

The testing window has been set by DESE and we are planning for the following MCAS test dates. Please note that students will take 2 days of tests per content area. Please refrain from vacations or unnecessary absences on these dates.

Grade 3

May 3: Step Up For Colleen 5K

May 4: Nature’s Classroom (5th Grade)

May 5: Early Release Dismissal 12:15

May 7: 3rd Grade MCAS Math & Nature’s Classroom (5th Grade)

May 8: 3rd Grade MCAS Math

We hope that everyone had a rejuvenating Spring Recess; here is what the PTO wants you to know this week…

• Town Meeting is this Tuesday at 7pm; please consider joining us as the town votes on the approval of $650,000 in the CIP budget for the playground (in the Major School Improvements line).

• The 5th Grade Social is this Friday from 7-9pm here at Sanborn. There is no RSVP necessary; any questions can be directed to Lauren West, 617-877-1356

• We’re in the final push for adding members to our Sanborn Bulldog Team for the 13th annual Step Up for Colleen 5K! The Ritzer Foundation donated $100k to our Playground Fund and we would love to see a big show of Sanborn support! We’re at 120 members and know that we can add even more to our amazing team! Help us get there by registering today! We hope to see you with us on Sunday, May 3rd!

• Need an excuse to get out of the house without the kids?! Join fellow Bulldog parents at our next Parent Social on 4/30 at Pure Barre in North Andover for a night of exercise and connection. Tickets are on sale now!

Important Dates

• 4/28 Annual Town Meeting

• 5/1 5th Grade Social

• 5/3 Step Up for Colleen 5K

• 5/4 Nature’s Classroom (5th Grade)

• 5/6 Early Release & Incoming Kindergarten Orientation

• 5/7 3rd Grade MCAS Math & Nature’s Classroom (5th Grade)

• 5/8 3rd Grade MCAS Math