ABRPTSO

Weekly Chatter

AB Regional High School

October 13, 2024

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Table of Contents

  • Calendar of Events
  • PTSO Update
  • ABRHS Spirit Week
  • Homecoming Game and Dance
  • PSAT Exam Registration
  • Junior Class Raking Day
  • Senior Drop-ins
  • Math Extra Help
  • Social Studies Academic Support
  • College and University Visits
  • Military Visits to ABRHS
  • ABRHS Library Resources
  • AP Exam Registration and Payment
  • School Pictures - Ordering Photos and Retake Day
  • Project Graduation Update
  • ABSAF Pass
  • Community Education
  • AB Football Fundraiser
  • Golf Team Leaf Raking
  • Fall Soccer Clinic
  • AB Athletics and EEE Updates
  • Apple Pie Baking Contest
  • Basketball Clinic
  • Danny's Place Fall Programs
  • Helpful Links
  • AB Resource Center and Exchange

Calendar of Events:


  • Mon, Oct. 14 – Indigenous Peoples’ Day, No School
  • Sat, Oct. 19 – Student Council’s Homecoming Dance, 6:30 - 9:00 pm
  • Mon, Oct. 21 - Early Release for Students at 1:15 pm
  • Wed, Oct. 23 – Picture Retake Day 
  • Sat, Oct 26 – PSAT Exams
  • Tues, Oct. 29 – Orchestra Masquerade Concert, 7:00 pm
  • Fri, Nov. 1 - Diwali, No School
  • Mon, Nov 4 – Term 1 Ends
  • Tues, Nov. 5 – Junior Class Raking Day and Professional Learning Day, No School


Calendar: 2024-2025 School Calendar

Pumpkin. Spice. And Everything Nice


We appreciate everything you are doing for the ABRPTSO. For others who have

not donated yet, we hope we can count on you for your support and the support of your employer by asking them to donate through Company Matching Funds. The ABRPTSO needs funds to help support our students, we do not get grants, wish we did, but we do not. The ABRPTSO helps bring exciting events to our students. What is on the horizon for our students so far? Homecoming, School Dances, Freshman Orientation, Field Trips, Gift Cards for Activities, Scholarships, the weekly Chatter that arrives in your inbox every Sunday, Class Gifts, Teacher Appreciation Events, Gardening Planters. Your $50 donation is appreciated. The ABRPTSO accepts Venmo and Paypal.


If you are interested in volunteering please join us at our upcoming virtual meeting, Wednesday, November 13th @ 7 pm.


Zoom link


https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4725519776?pwd=XJoL9sihzbcYYoHi5B2Tv77oD6dTMx.1&omn=88684059227


Every member of the school community - parents, caregivers, teachers, students, etc. - are always invited.

ABRHS Spirit Week begins on Tuesday!


SPIRIT WEEK THEMES -

  • Tuesday, October 15 through Friday, October 18
  • Tuesday October 15th    Wear Blue and Gold
  • Wednesday October 16th Wear Pink
  • Thursday October 17th   PJ Day
  • Friday October 18th     Twin Day

HOMECOMING GAME - Friday, October 18th at 6:30

ABRHS vs Lincoln-Sudbury Football Game on Leary Field 


HOMECOMING DANCE - Saturday, October 19th at 6:30 

  • Student Council is hosting the Homecoming Dance on Saturday, October 19th at 6:30 PM in Stearns Gym! This year’s theme is Disco! Tickets are $20 and sales for Homecoming will be sold during all lunches this week (cash, check or Square payment). No tickets will be sold at the door. One ticket can be purchased per student and Homecoming is limited to AB students ONLY.

PSAT Exam Registration Deadline- Friday, October 18th.


PSAT Online Registration is underway and will end on Friday, Oct 18, 2024, for Grade 11 students. The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) will be offered at Acton Boxborough Regional High School on Saturday, October 26, 2024 starting at 8:00 AM. The ABRHS Counseling Department recommends that 11th-grade students considering applying to college take the PSAT/NMSQT. For more information, and details and the link to register, please visit this link. Please contact Ms. Jodi Chu, jchu@abschools.org , if you have questions or require financial assistance.


Junior Class Raking Day!


Tuesday, November 5 - 10:00 a.m. - noon


The Class of 2026 is organizing a community service project for Tuesday, November 5th (a no-school day) with the Acton and Boxborough Councils on Aging. Students will be helping senior citizens with raking and yard clean-up. All juniors are invited to participate in this annual tradition and will receive an email with details on how to sign up. Registration will open on Friday, October 18th, and the deadline is Thursday, October 24th. Students will need to provide their own transportation that day and may need help from families to arrange rides. Questions about Junior Class Raking Day can be directed to Ms. Tejeda (jtejeda@abschools.org).

Senior Drop-ins


School Counselors will be available in room 115N, all three lunch periods every Friday through 11/8/24 to assist Seniors with their College Essays or other college/university questions. No appointment necessary.

After School Math Help Is Back!


The Math Department is offering after school math help again this year! All students are welcome to drop in for extra help on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in 158W from 3-4:00 p.m. 

Social Studies Academic Support (SSAS)



Would your student like help completing homework, preparing for a test, or writing an essay in social studies? Check out the SSAS schedule and please sign up using this link. Students can drop in, but preference will be given to those who filled out the form ahead of time. Please read this doc for additional information. 

College and University Visits


Colleges and universities will be visiting ABRHS daily through mid-November. See the Fall 2024 College/University Visits Calendar for who is visiting. Please note that the visit date/time may change as schools sometimes need to cancel and reschedule. These visits are for Seniors (class of 2025). Juniors may attend only if the visit is during their free period. Seniors planning to participate in a college or university visit should indicate in their SCOIR account a day before the visit that they will be attending and email the class teacher that they will be missing class due to their planning to attend XYZ college/university visit. On the day of the university visit, students should come to the Counseling Center and sign an attendance sheet within the first 10 minutes to be marked as excused. Any questions regarding the college/university visits should be directed to Mrs. Holden-Webber at pholdenwebber@abschools.org

Military Visits to ABRHS


Several times a year, representatives from different branches of the military visit ABRHS and set up informational tables in the cafeteria during lunch periods. Please contact Mrs. Holden-Webber at pholdenwebber@abschools.org if you have any questions. The next visit is with the US Army and Army Reserve on Thursday, October 17, 2024. US Marines will visit on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. 

ABRHS Library Resources


  • Research & Writing Center at the ABRHS Library - Students can make an appointment to get individualized help in the library with any part of the research or writing process across the curriculum. Email abrhslibrary@abschools.org to make an appointment, or with any questions. 
  • ABRHS Library Test Prep Resources - Is your student planning on taking the PSAT, SAT, or an AP test this year? Students can access free academic support and test prep through the library with PrepSTEP. Students can sign-in with their abschools accounts to get going and then track progress. Please reach out to Anna Secino (asecino@abschools.org) with any questions.

AP Exam Registration


AP Exams will be in May 2025 (May 5-9, May 12 - 16) and Late AP Exams (May 19-23). Registration and payment for those AP Exams are happening now! 

AP Exams at ABRHS are only open to ABRHS students or individuals who reside in Acton or Boxborough.


Oct 31, 2024: Preferred registration completed 

Nov 01, 2024, LATE REGISTRATION FEE: Begin +$10 per exam late registration fee 

Nov 09, 2024 REFUND POLICY: Date by which a student can receive a Full Refund 

Nov 9, 2024: If you have not completed the Two website enrollment process yet, do it NOW.

Nov 09, 2024, LATE REGISTRATION FEE: Begin +$45 per exam late registration fee 

Nov 14, 2024, 11:59 PM Date and Time AP Exam registration ends.

The AP Exam order will be placed on 11/15/24 for students who have completed the following two website enrollment processes and paid for the exams.


  1. MyCollegeboard * AP teachers will give AP students access codes.

For students seeking a self-study AP Exam access code, please email pholdenwebber@abschools.org with your first and last name and the AP exam you seek to self-study.

2. Total Registration www.TotalRegistration.net/AP/222297

(site ABRHS uses to process payment of AP exams)


For additional information, please reference the AP Exams May 2025 Informational Handout: Fall 2024 document. If you have any questions regarding the AP Exams, please contact the AP Coordinator. Ms. Holden-Webber at pholdenwebber@abschools.org

School Pictures - Ordering Photos and Retake Day 


If you would like to order our students photos, please visit this link to order photos online. If your student was absent, retakes will take place on Wednesday, October 23. If you have any questions about ordering, please call Mark Lawrence at 603-882-0116. General questions can be directed to Melissa Dempsey, mdempsey@abschools.org.

Project Graduation: A Great Event? We're Planning On It!


Happy fall, y'all! It's time to plan AB Project Graduation 2025—the all-night, all-inclusive, substance-free celebration for our seniors. Thank you to all of the parents who have expressed interest in volunteering to keep this tradition going for the 36th year! We are still in need of a few volunteers on the planning side. These spots are for anyone with a child in the district in any gradeDecoratingfundraising, and communications are your bag, baby? Click through to this form to tell us all about it, or shoot us an email. It's a great group working for a great cause — keeping our community's kids safe from drinking and driving on commencement night. 


Warmly, 


AB Project Graduation 2025 Team

abprojectgraduation@gmail.com

CLICK HERE to purchase your 2024 - 2025 ABSAF Pass!

Community Education Classes


Teen Hip Hop: November 6-20

Designed for teens, this class will teach hip hop moves and grooves through short combinations and routines.


ACT Practice Test: November (Gr. 10-12): November 23

This full-length practice ACT provides students with the opportunity to sit for a low-stakes test in a simulated Test Day environment.


SAT Practice Test (Gr. 10-12) Prepare for success on the SAT! Our low-stakes, simulated Test Day environment fosters familiarity and confidence.

October 19

November 16


Career Paths in Computer Science & Computer Engineering: November 7

This seminar will offer valuable insights into the broad landscape of technology careers


Jumpstart Juniors: November 14

This seminar will help junior students organize and prioritize their college search and application process. 


Driver's Ed

Buckle up! Driver Education classes will held be on the following dates:

November 12-March 11 (Tuesdays)

Winter Vacation (December 26-30)

January 11-March 15 (Saturdays)



Winter Basketball

Get out on the basketball court as a player, ref or coach in the Comm Ed Winter Basketball Leagues! Register online and view all the details on our Basketball Page.


Fall Soccer Clinic


ABRHS Varsity Boys and Girls are hosting a Fall Soccer Clinic for any children K-6 to help them with soccer skills. The kids, varsity boys, and coaches had a blast last year! Please register here if your child is interested. All that is needed is: soccer ball with their name on it, water, and shin guards (recommended). Cost is $25.Date: October 20, 2024

Time: 3:30-5:00pm

Venue: Lower Fields, 66 Hayward Rd, Acton, MA

Please feel free to contact us with any questions: vigfamily829@gmail.com

We look forward to a great time!!

AB Athletics and EEE Updates


Due to Acton’s elevation to "high risk" community status for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) by the Commonwealth, athletic schedules are being updated. Please read all updates, dates and times at this link. We appreciate your understanding of these circumstances, and encourage you to reach out to Sandy Alexander (salexander@abschools.org) or Jim Scanlon (jscanlon@abschools.org) in the Athletic Department with any questions or concerns..

APPLE PIE BAKING CONTEST


Bakers of all ages are invited to submit an apple pie. Prizes for winner of best under-15 baker, and best adult baker. Pies must be delivered to the library on SATURDAY Oct 26th by 2pm for judging. Contestants should pre-register online here https://forms.gle/ASuKbFaFmNfsE7798 There are 20 places only.

So that the judges can compare apples to apples (so to speak) there are a few guidelines. BUT there are 20 places only... so read the guidelines then register your name as interested 

Guidelines: Pies are to be homemade including crust. Filling is to be just apples and spices (no other fruits). Your recipe should be submitted, including the type of apple(s) used. Pies should be in a 9-inch pie plate/pan. Non-edible materials/decoration not permitted. Judging to be conducted by library staff, last year's competition winners, and a volunteer from the Acton Woman’s Club. Sponsor: Friends of the Acton Libraries.

The public is welcome and invited on Sunday Oct 27th at 2pm for the prize giving, and to enjoy the pies with cheese, cider and more. 

Danny's Place Fall Programs


Estate Planning

Danny's Place is hosting a FREE Parent Info Night: "Protecting What Matters: Estate Planning for Parents of Tweens and Teens."

Partnering with The Parents Estate Planning Law Firm, PC, this insightful workshop, led by David Feakes, will equip you with essential strategies to ensure your children are cared for by the people you choose. Get answers to your questions and gain the confidence to secure your family's future.

When: October 15th

Time: 7 PM

RSVP today! www.dannys-place.org/estate-planning


Self-Defense Workshop

Empower Yourself with Practical, Effective Self-Defense!

Feeling confident in your safety can make all the difference. Join us at Danny’s Place on Wednesday, October 30th, 2024, at 7 PM for a transformative Self-Defense Workshop taught by internationally certified 5th Degree Black Belt instructors from Concord Self-Defense Academy.

This workshop is perfect for teens and young adults (ages 13+), women, parents, fitness enthusiasts, and high-risk professionals who want to build confidence and learn practical, life-saving techniques. You'll walk away with skills that can help you protect yourself in dangerous situations.

Fee: $50 per individual

Tip: Sign up with a friend or family member for partner-based practice!

Don’t miss this opportunity to empower yourself—reserve your spot today!


What's Next Starts Now!

Join the program that helps juniors and seniors prepare for life after high school, covering resumes, interviews, and college prep! Plan your future with confidence. Enroll now!


Financial Literacy

Master Your Money with Financial Literacy! 

Ready to take control of your financial future? Our FREE Financial Literacy course, taught by Northern Bank, will give your teen the tools to budget, save, and use credit wisely. Perfect for students in grades 9-12 who want to learn essential money management skills.

 Meets: Wednesdays, 5:30 - 6:30 PM

 Cost: Free

 Grades: 9-12

 Sign Up: https://www.hisawyer.com/.../schedules/activity-set/963253


Adulting 101

A series of workshops teaching essential life skills, like cooking and professional writing. Learn practical skills not covered in school. Sign up for hands-on workshops and get ready for adulthood!


Mosaic

Mosaic is a supportive space for those within the LGBTQ+ community! Connect with peers who share similar experiences! Young People starting in 6th grade throughout 12th grade are welcome to join in engaging discussions, interactive activities and games, and opportunities to build meaningful friendships. We meet weekly on Tuesdays from 5:45PM-6:45PM. Sign up: https://www.hisawyer.com/dannys-place/schedules/activity-set/963234


Scholarship Opportunity!

Danny’s Place Youth Leadership Council (DPYLC)

This council is for high school youth in 9th-12th grade. High schoolers will earn community service hours, and seniors will be eligible for the Mary Laurion Danny’s Place Youth Services Scholarship. This council meets every Tuesday from 3:15 to 4:30 PM, following our fall, winter, and spring session dates. Applications accepted on a rolling basis. 

Apply here:https://www.hisawyer.com/dannys-place/schedules/activity-set/963213


Other Programs: We have many other programs that your teen/kid can join! Please visit www.dannys-place.org/fall to learn more and register!

Helpful Links:


ABRHS Website

2024-2025 School Calendar

Athletic Calendar

Community Service Program & Volunteer Opportunities

Extracurricular Activities

Student Handbook

Student Job/ Employment postings

AB EXCHANGE


We just wanted to send out a quick reminder that AB Exchange is here for you! 


AB families can "shop" or request items through their Google Form, and they will send along a bag of goodies to your school. 

The Weekly Chatter is distributed each Sunday. If you have a submission you'd like to include in the Chatter, please email it to chatter@abrptso.org by noon on Friday. The Chatter was created solely for the purpose of communicating school-related events, groups and forums to parents and students.
Acton-Boxborough Regional PTSO | chatter@abrptso.org | Website