The Thursday Owl - March 27, 2025

The Thursday OwL

The Alcott ptg weekly email

March 27, 2025

The PTG provides information and support to the Alcott community and raises funds to help make our school the best it can be.

Alcott Walk to School Day

News and Announcements

Jumping Right into Spring!

Huge thank you to the Alcott PTG committees and parent volunteers who have brought a ton of fun activities to our community this month. 

Thank you to the 5th Grade Committee for an awesome, fun-filled first March Madness! 

Thank you to our Green Team leader for the recent walk to school (hot chocolate and new puppy too!).

Thank you to our Book Fair and Math Night Committee Chairs and volunteers for a week of fun for our students! 

Bringing families together is such an important part of building our school community, and we could not do it without the time, effort and creativity of our parent volunteers. 

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Art Fundraiser is LIVE!

Soon you will be receiving your child's custom catalog for our Square 1 Art fundraiser. But you don't have to wait until then to start ordering amazing keepsakes and gifts featuring your child's art! Get a head start and order online NOW! 

Simply search for your child's art using Art Search, and enter the state, school name (Alcott elementary, not Alcott School), and your child's name. Your student's art and code will appear, and you can start ordering immediately.

Order by 4/17/25 and a portion of the proceeds will go directly back to Alcott! You can also upload additional art using Art Upload. If you have questions, or need anything at all, contact customer care online. Thank you for supporting Alcott and all of our incredible artists!

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Book Fair and Math Night Tonight!

Come to the Book Fair Open House and Math Night tonight, Thursday 3/27!!! Adults and kids of all ages are invited to check out the Book Fair in the auditorium starting at 4:00 and also participate in a series of math games from around the world in the gym. There will be prizes and lots of fun! Math Night will run from 4:30-6:30. There is no need to sign up in advance, and entry is free!

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Save the Date: METCO Family Friends - Altitude Trampoline Park!

Join us as we jump, twist, flip, run and climb around on our annual trip to Altitude! Don't miss out on our group's final field trip of the year -- the ever-popular trampoline park outing. Hope to see you there!

When: Wednesday, April 9th from 12:30-3pm

Where: Altitude Trampoline Park, Billerica, MA

What: Jump from 1-3pm. Pizza and ice cream treats provided!

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Concord PTGs Host Candidate Forum on March 31st

Join us on March 31st from 7:00-9:00pm at the CCHS Auditorium for a School Committee and Select Board Candidate Forum! This forum is jointly hosted by the Alcott, Thoreau, Willard, and CMS PTGs, the CCHS PA, and SEPAC. Please submit any questions you have in advance using this Google form. The program will be split into two parts; you are encouraged to attend both. Strong attendance from Concord's school community is very important - please attend! 

Key Dates: 

Now! Ballots available (in person absentee voting/vote by mail; info here)

Fri, 3/28 at 5:00pm: Deadline to register to vote (see info here)

Mon, 3/31 at 7:00pm: Candidate Forum at CCHS

Tues, 4/8: Election Day! (polls open 7:00am-8:00pm)

Candidate Forum Program & Candidate Websites: 

Part 1 (7:00-8:00pm): School Committee Candidates (2 open seats)

Alexa Boland Anderson

Sandeep Pisharody

Michael Adrian Williams

Part 2 (8:00-9:00pm): Select Board Candidates (2 open seats)

Elizabeth E. Akehurst-Moore

Paul Boehm

Mary Hartman

Joseph E. Laurin

This event will be filmed by Minute Man Network and shared shortly after the event.

—

Like a Good Party? Join the Alcott PTG's Event Committee!

We are looking for some parents who like to plan, organize, and have fun! If that's you, and you are interested in joining the Alcott PTG Event Committee, please email ptgalcott@gmail.com.

—

Volunteer Opportunities

April Composting at Lunch (Alcott cafeteria): sign up here

Parent Social Silent Auction (volunteer to help or donate items): alcottptgfundraising@gmail.com

Substitute Teachers Needed: If you are Interested in learning more about substitute teaching in Concord, please visit this website. To apply to become a substitute teacher, please complete this application.

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Calendar and Important Dates

Every Wednesday is a Half Day

  • March 27 - Math Night and Book Fair Open House

  • March 31 and April 1 - Grade 4 ELA MCAS

  • April 3 - Pre-K - 5 Conferences (No School)

  • April 7 and 8 - Grade 3 ELA MCAS

  • April 9 - MFF Altitude Trampoline Park

  • April 10 and 11 - Grade 5 ELA MCAS

  • April 11 - Crazy Shoe & Slipper Day

  • April 21 - April 25 - April Vacation

  • April 28 - Classes Resume

In the Community


Come Celebrate Holi

Saturday, April 5 | 1:00-3:00 PM | Emerson Field, Thoreau Street

Come welcome the arrival of Spring at the Town of Concord's first Holi celebration, the festival of colors that brings joy and unity! Enjoy a day of fun, music, and colorful festivities for all ages! Register using this link: Registration

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Parent Education Survey

Concord-Carlisle Adult & Community Education is looking for parent input on parent education programs for next year. Please complete this survey to let them know what topics are most interesting and relevant for you and your family. Survey link here. Thank you! 

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SEPAC Meet Up

Thursday March 27th at 9AM @ Saltbox Kitchen.
84 Comm Ave-West Concord. Please join us for a casual conversation, get to know other parents and caregivers with students who also have learning differences. SEPAC board members will also be available to answer questions and chat. You can find more information on our website and on social media as well: SEPAC

—

THOREAU OF THE DICE Casino Night in support of the Concord Carlisle Foundation

Saturday, April 5, 7:30pm @ Sanctuary, 82 Main Street, Maynard

Join us for poker, blackjack, craps and roulette while indulging in great food and exciting company, all for a good cause!! You'll also have a shot of winning your share of over $25,000 in prizes! Tickets are $100 each - buy yours here. We hope to see you there! 

—

Concord Carlisle Youth Hockey Registration: Evaluations Start 3/18

Registration is open for the CCYH 2025-2026 Travel Season! Evaluations for the 2025-2026 season start on Tuesday 3/18 and are required for placement on a team. Evaluations will take place at Valley Sports on the following dates/times:

-U8 (2017 & 2018): Thurs 3/20 and Thurs 3/27 from 5:40-6:40pm

-U10 (2015 & 2016): Thurs 3/20 and Thurs 3/27 from 6:50-7:50pm

-U12 (2013 & 2014): Thurs 3/20 and Thurs 3/27 from 8:00-9:00pm

-U14 (2011 & 2012): Tues 3/18 and Tues 3/25 from 8:40-9:40pm

Register now at: https://go.teamsnap.com/forms/473415. Registration is required prior to participating in evaluations.

Visit www.ccyh.org for more information or contact Mark Daniel, CCYH Registrar (ccyh.registrar@gmail.com), with any questions.

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Alcott PTG, 93 Laurel St, Concord, MA 01742, USA

The Thursday Owl - March 20, 2025

The Thursday OwL

The Alcott ptg weekly email

March 20, 2025

The PTG provides information and support to the Alcott community and raises funds to help make our school the best it can be.

News and Announcements

March Madness Fundraiser Tomorrow!

Join your friends at Alcott TOMORROW March 21 from 5:30-8:30 to cheer on your favorite college basketball teams! In order to raise money, we will charge a small admission fee and have concessions available (to be purchased separately). Games will be streamed, and there will also be fun activities. All grades are welcome!

  • Location: Alcott gym and cafeteria

  • Hosted by the 5th Grade Committee and PTG leads

  • Admission $10 per family; purchase tickets in advance here

  • Sign up to volunteer!

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Alcott Walk to School Day!

Please save the date for Alcott Walk to School Day, which will be held on Tuesday, March 25. See attached flyer for more details!

We need a few volunteers to help with this event, please use this link to sign up!

—

Concord PTGs Host Candidate Forum on March 31st!

Join us on March 31st from 7:00-9:00pm at the CCHS Auditorium for a School Committee and Select Board Candidate Forum! This forum is jointly hosted by the Alcott, Thoreau, Willard, and CMS PTGs, the CCHS PA, and SEPAC. Please submit any questions you have in advance using this Google form. The program will be split into two parts; you are encouraged to attend both. Strong attendance from Concord's school community is very important - please attend! 

Part 1 (7:00 - 8:00 PM): Featuring candidates for the 2 open seats on the School Committee:

  • Alexa Boland Anderson

  • Sandeep Pisharody

  • Michael Adrian Williams

Part 2 (8:00 - 9:00 PM): Featuring candidates for the 2 open seats on the Select Board:

  • Elizabeth E. Akehurst-Moore

  • Paul Boehm

  • Mary Hartman

  • Joseph E. Laurin 

—

Volunteers: Book Fair Week

Sign up here to volunteer. We are looking for volunteers who are available during the week for classroom visits, as well as volunteers who can help at the Book Fair Open House/Math Night.

Classroom visits to the Book Fair will take place March 25 - 27 during the school day. SAVE THE DATE of Thursday 3/27 for Book Fair Open House and Math Night!! Adults and kids of all ages are invited to check out the Book Fair in the auditorium starting at 4:00 and to participate in a series of math games from around the world in the gym. There will be prizes and lots of fun! Math Night will run from 4:30-6:30. There is no need to sign up in advance! 

—

Art Fundraiser

Hello families: In the last few weeks your child has created a very special art masterpiece at school that you will have the opportunity to purchase on unique gifts and keepsakes to enjoy for a lifetime (think mugs, keychains, tote bags)! Later this month you will receive a catalogue featuring your child's artwork with more information detailing how you can place your orders. Think of all the treasured gifts you can get for Mother's Day, Father's Day, grandparents' birthdays, etc. And, best of all, a portion of the proceeds from the sales will go right back to Alcott. Stay tuned for more information about this exciting opportunity and let's celebrate all of our incredible artists! Thanks, Alcott’s Fundraising Team

—

Like a Good Party? Join the Alcott PTG's Event Committee!

We are looking for some parents who like to plan, organize, and have fun! If that's you, and you are interested in joining the Alcott PTG Event Committee, please email ptgalcott@gmail.com.

—

Volunteer and Other Opportunities

March Composting at Lunch (Alcott cafeteria): sign up here

Parent Social Silent Auction (volunteer to help or donate items): alcottptgfundraising@gmail.com

Substitute Teachers Needed: If you are Interested in learning more about substitute teaching in Concord, please visit this website. To apply to become a substitute teacher, please complete this application.

—

Calendar and Important Dates

Every Wednesday is a Half Day

  • March 21 - March Madness Fundraiser

  • March 25 - Alcott Walk to School Day

  • March 27 - Math Night and Book Fair Open House

  • March 31 and April 1 - Grade 4 ELA MCAS

  • April 3 - Pre-K - 5 Conferences (No School)

  • April 7 and 8 - Grade 3 ELA MCAS

  • April 10 and 11 - Grade 5 ELA MCAS

In the Community

SEPAC Meet Up

Thursday March 27th at 9AM @ Saltbox Kitchen.
84 Comm Ave-West Concord. Please join us for a casual conversation, get to know other parents and caregivers with students who also have learning differences.   SEPAC board members will also be available to answer questions and chat.
 
You can find more information on our website and on social media as well: SEPAC

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Concord Rec. Half Day Summer Programs:

BuildWave: June 23 to June 27th & August 11 to 15 9am to 12pm
Want to spark your child's interest in STEM? Buildwave is an innovative building program that feels like a video game! Over 6 sessions, your child will create with over 50 different building materials, including Legos, PlusPlus, and much more! Each session is a new "level" of the game, with an energetic audiovisual component that guides participants through the different building waves. Throughout, your child will learn design and collaboration fundamentals in a unique and memorable context. 

Chess Wizards: August 18 to August 22 9am to 12pm
Join us this summer for tons of challenging chess lessons, exciting games, and cool prizes. You'll improve your chess skills, meet new friends, and work out your most powerful muscle - your brain! Our club includes recess time, chess tournaments, snacks and puzzles. Each participant receives a chess wizard T-shirt, trophy and a puzzle folder.  

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Check out these programs from Concord Carlisle Adult & Community Ed! 

Building Skills to Support Social and Emotional Well-Being – Thurs., 4/10, 7-8:30 pm, Online. Please join Dr. Rachel Kramer for a conversation about helping children build skills that support social and emotional well-being. Fee: $25

BLAST Babysitting Safety & CPR – Tues., 5/13, 3:30-6:15, at CCHS

The BLAST! (Babysitter Lessons and Safety Training) program provides training in First Aid, in household safety, and some fundamentals of childcare. This program is for students in grades 6-8. Fee: $125

 Special Needs Financial Planning – Mon, 4/28, 7-8:30 pm, Online

This class will provide invaluable financial planning information for parents with a special needs child and focus on how each family’s unique circumstances drive their planning decisions and determine their family’s financial framework. Fee: $29

Register online at www.concordcarlisleace.org or call 978-318-1432.

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Boston University Soccer Clinic!

On Saturday, March 29st, from 5:00 pm- 8:00 pm. Open to both boys and girls, the event will feature Boston University Men's and Women’s Soccer players —Daniel Kim, Eileen Soloman, among others — who will lead a skills training session and team play, concluding with a panel to speak with the players about student-athlete life at the Division I level. This event will take place at Bosse Sports, 1 Westinghouse Plaza Building Building G, Boston, MA 02136. This is an incredible opportunity for your boys and girls, who will not only develop as athletes but learn about the collegiate athlete experience. Spots are limited, and we would greatly appreciate you passing this along to your young athletes and their families. Here's the link for sign up: 

https://www.athlinics.com/event-details/youth-soccer-clinic-with-boston-university-athletes
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THOREAU OF THE DICE Casino Night in support of the Concord Carlisle Foundation

Saturday, April 5, 7:30pm @ Sanctuary, 82 Main Street, Maynard

Join us for poker, blackjack, craps and roulette while indulging in great food and exciting company, all for a good cause!! You'll also have a shot of winning your share of over $25,000 in prizes! Tickets are $100 each - buy yours here. We hope to see you there! 

—

Meet Graphic Novel Author Shidan Youssefian

Wednesday, March 26 from 3:30-4:30pm in the Children’s Activity Room of the Main Library (129 Main Street, Concord). Meet Shidan Youssefian, the author of the graphic novel series Life Really Socks! Learn about the process of creating graphic novels and then join us for a short activity.

Recommended for kids ages 7+ and caregivers. If your child is ages 7-9, please stay with your child for the entire event. No registration required.

—

Concord Rec Spring Programs

April Vacation Program: Tues, 4/22–Fri, 4/25 8am-6pm. Join the fun with games, arts & crafts, and field trips! Field Trip Schedule-Tues: Xtreeme Craze-bounce houses, laser tag, pizza, arcade. Wed: Chunkies-movie and pizza. Thurs: Kings Bowling-pizza/chicken tenders included. Fri: Beede Center swimming-bring your own lunch. 

April Professional Day Program: 4/3 from 8am-6pm. Join the fun with arts and crafts, play, activities, and a field trip to Launch Trampoline Park in Leominster. This trip includes 2 hours of jumping and arcade time. Extra spending money is recommended for the arcade.

Click here for more information about each program and to register.

—

Concord Carlisle Youth Hockey Registration: Evaluations Start 3/18

Registration is open for the CCYH 2025-2026 Travel Season! Evaluations for the 2025-2026 season start on Tuesday 3/18 and are required for placement on a team. Evaluations will take place at Valley Sports on the following dates/times:

-U8 (2017 & 2018): Thurs 3/20 and Thurs 3/27 from 5:40-6:40pm

-U10 (2015 & 2016): Thurs 3/20 and Thurs 3/27 from 6:50-7:50pm

-U12 (2013 & 2014): Thurs 3/20 and Thurs 3/27 from 8:00-9:00pm

-U14 (2011 & 2012): Tues 3/18 and Tues 3/25 from 8:40-9:40pm

Register now at: https://go.teamsnap.com/forms/473415. Registration is required prior to participating in evaluations.

Visit www.ccyh.org for more information or contact Mark Daniel, CCYH Registrar (ccyh.registrar@gmail.com), with any questions.

Join the Alcott PTG

Discover all the ways both working and non-working parents and guardians are needed to support our wonderful staff, students, and families. Have something to offer that you don’t see listed there? There’s a place for you to submit that info as well! We hope to hear from you!

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Alcott PTG, 93 Laurel St, Concord, MA 01742, USA

The Thursday Owl - March 13, 2025

The Thursday OwL

The Alcott ptg weekly email

March 13, 2025

The PTG provides information and support to the Alcott community and raises funds to help make our school the best it can be.

News and Announcements

Save the Date!

Please save the date for Alcott Walk to School Day, which will be held on Tuesday, March 25. More details to come!

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Save Another Date!

The Concord school PTGs are hosting a joint forum with the candidates for School Committee and Select Board. Come meet the seven candidates and learn more about their vision and policies. The event will take place on March 31st at CCHS from 7-9PM. Voting Day is April 8th. More details to follow. 

—

Volunteers: Book Fair Week

Sign up here to volunteer. We are looking for volunteers who are available during the week for classroom visits, as well as volunteers who can help at the Book Fair Open House/Math Night.

Classroom visits to the Book Fair will take place March 25 - 27 during the school day. SAVE THE DATE of Thursday 3/27 for Book Fair Open House and Math Night!! Adults and kids of all ages are invited to check out the Book Fair in the auditorium starting at 4:00 and to participate in a series of math games from around the world in the gym. There will be prizes and lots of fun! Math Night will run from 4:30-6:30. There is no need to sign up in advance! 

—

Art Fundraiser Updates

Hello families: In the last few weeks your child has created a very special art masterpiece at school that you will have the opportunity to purchase on unique gifts and keepsakes to enjoy for a lifetime (think mugs, keychains, tote bags)! Later this month you will receive a catalogue featuring your child's artwork with more information detailing how you can place your orders. Think of all the treasured gifts you can get for Mother's Day, Father's Day, grandparents' birthdays, etc. And, best of all, a portion of the proceeds from the sales will go right back to Alcott. Stay tuned for more information about this exciting opportunity and let's celebrate all of our incredible artists! Thanks, Alcott’s Fundraising Team

—

Like a Good Party? Join the Alcott PTG's Event Committee!

We are looking for some parents who like to plan, organize, and have fun! If that's you, and you are interested in joining the Alcott PTG Event Committee, please email ptgalcott@gmail.com.

—

March Madness Fundraiser Reminder

Join your friends at Alcott on Friday, March 21 from 5:30-8:30 to cheer on your favorite college basketball teams! In order to raise money, we will charge a small admission fee of $10 per family and have concessions available (to be purchased separately). Games will be streamed, and there will also be fun activities. All grades are welcome!

Click here to sign up now.

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Concord Rec Spring Alcott Enrichment

Before School Sports: 4/28-6/9 (8-8:50am). Grade 5 on Mondays, Grade 4 on Tuesdays, Grade 3 on Wednesdays, and Grades 1/2 on Thursdays.

Spanish Language & Culture (Grades K-2): Tuesday, 4/29-6/3 (3:30-4:30pm). Students will practice Spanish basics while doing crafts, playing games, singing, and conversing with our experienced teacher.

Minecraft Innovators: Thursday, 5/1-6/5 (3:30-5pm). The ultimate Minecraft city experience! Become a part of our Minecraft community and help us create a spectacular city for future residents.

Kids Test Kitchen: Friday, 5/2-6/6 (3:30-4:30pm). We’re on a mission to get young eaters cooking, tasting, and thinking about healthy ingredients! Let’s continue to redefine kid food; one lesson, and one child at a time!

Click here for more information about each program and to register.

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Substitute Teachers Needed!

Substitute teachers play a vital role in our school community, and currently there is a huge shortage of substitute teachers. This causes a real strain on the day-to-day activities for our teachers, staff and students. If you are Interested in learning more about substitute teaching in Concord, or know a community member who is, please visit this website. To apply to become a substitute teacher, please complete this application. If you do not already have a School Spring account, you will need to create one. Please do not get overwhelmed by the process - it is quite straightforward once you register. Any questions, we encourage you to reach out to humanresources@concordps.org or your individual school(s). 

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Volunteer Opportunities

March Composting at Lunch (Alcott cafeteria): sign up here

Parent Social Silent Auction (volunteer to help or donate items): alcottptgfundraising@gmail.com

—

Calendar and Important Dates

Every Wednesday is a Half Day

  • March 14 - Favorite Activity/Sport/Hobby Apparel Day

  • March 21 - March Madness Fundraiser

  • March 25 - Alcott Walk to School Day

  • March 27 - Math Night and Book Fair Open House

  • March 31 and April 1 - Grade 4 ELA MCAS

  • April 3 - Pre-K - 5 Conferences (No School)

  • April 7 and 8 - Grade 3 ELA MCAS

  • April 10 and 11 - Grade 5 ELA MCAS

In the Community


THOREAU OF THE DICE Casino Night in support of the Concord Carlisle Foundation

Saturday, April 5, 7:30pm @ Sanctuary, 82 Main Street, Maynard

Join us for poker, blackjack, craps and roulette while indulging in great food and exciting company, all for a good cause!! You'll also have a shot of winning your share of over $25,000 in prizes! Tickets are $100 each - buy yours here. We hope to see you there! 

—

Meet Graphic Novel Author Shidan Youssefian

Wednesday, March 26 from 3:30-4:30pm in the Children’s Activity Room of the Main Library (129 Main Street, Concord). Meet Shidan Youssefian, the author of the graphic novel series Life Really Socks! Learn about the process of creating graphic novels and then join us for a short activity.

Recommended for kids ages 7+ and caregivers. If your child is ages 7-9, please stay with your child for the entire event. No registration required.

—

Concord Rec Spring Programs

April Vacation Program: Tues, 4/22–Fri, 4/25 8am-6pm. Join the fun with games, arts & crafts, and field trips! Field Trip Schedule-Tues: Xtreeme Craze-bounce houses, laser tag, pizza, arcade. Wed: Chunkies-movie and pizza. Thurs: Kings Bowling-pizza/chicken tenders included. Fri: Beede Center swimming-bring your own lunch. 

April Professional Day Program: 4/3 from 8am-6pm. Join the fun with arts and crafts, play, activities, and a field trip to Launch Trampoline Park in Leominster. This trip includes 2 hours of jumping and arcade time. Extra spending money is recommended for the arcade.

Click here for more information about each program and to register.

—

Summer Music Ensembles with IMSCC!

Summer is coming and IMSCC has a variety of summer music programs! The following ensembles are registering now: Orchestra Summer Program with Anna Anderson; String Chamber Music Ensemble with Sargis Karapetyan; Trombone Choir with Alexei Doohovskoy

You can browse the ensembles and register here. 

It's not too late to start private lessons this spring - fill out the inquiry form to begin the enrollment process. Summer Lessons start June 23 - enrollment opens next month, stay tuned. More information here; questions: email dlevine@concordcarlisle.org

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Concord Carlisle Youth Hockey Registration: Evaluations Start 3/18

Registration is open for the CCYH 2025-2026 Travel Season! Evaluations for the 2025-2026 season start on Tuesday 3/18 and are required for placement on a team. Evaluations will take place at Valley Sports on the following dates/times:

-U8 (2017 & 2018): Thurs 3/20 and Thurs 3/27 from 5:40-6:40pm

-U10 (2015 & 2016): Thurs 3/20 and Thurs 3/27 from 6:50-7:50pm

-U12 (2013 & 2014): Thurs 3/20 and Thurs 3/27 from 8:00-9:00pm

-U14 (2011 & 2012): Tues 3/18 and Tues 3/25 from 8:40-9:40pm

Register now at: https://go.teamsnap.com/forms/473415. Registration is required prior to participating in evaluations.

Visit www.ccyh.org for more information or contact Mark Daniel, CCYH Registrar (ccyh.registrar@gmail.com), with any questions.

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Milldam Nursery School Now Enrolling

This cooperative, play-based preschool in Concord Center is accepting applications for the 2025-26 school year. Discover their engaging, interactive classrooms for ages 2 through 5 full of opportunities to learn through play in a dynamic, developmentally appropriate environment. Apply now or reach out to membership@milldamnurseryschool.org to learn more.

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Spring Outside with Kids Naturally

Spring is in the air! Get the kids outside to play like nature intended with Kids Naturally. 

Kids Naturally is an experiential outdoor learning program based in W. Concord. Each day at Kids Naturally is an adventure of learning, play, exploration and collaboration inspired by stories and surrounded by nature!

Choose from three different meeting times: Wednesdays, Thursdays or Weekends.  

Register Now at Kids-Naturally.com 

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Alcott PTG, 93 Laurel St, Concord, MA 01742, USA