It is definitely feeling more and more like winter every day! The changing of seasons brings on new routines, exciting activities, and a sense of anticipation as we approach the winter break. Please remember to send students with appropriate winter gear, as we will continue to enjoy outdoor recess whenever possible. Let's embrace this season together and continue fostering a warm, welcoming environment where every child feels they belong!

Last week, we had visits from Artist in Making which is a joint venture by the Tri-M Music Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, and the Theater Guild to highlight arts opportunities in secondary school. High School students visited students in grade three, four, and five. Sanborn students were able to hear an overview of arts opportunities in MS and HS, ask questions, and participate in some quick activities. This was made possible by a grant from Andona and is being spearheaded by Anna Bacchi an Andover High School student as a part of her Girl Scout Gold Award (the equivalent of Eagle Scout).

Next week we are fortunate to have three grade levels participating in field trips. On Monday, fourth grade will be going to the Museum of Science, on Wednesday second grade will be going to Wheelock Family Theater to see, "A Year with Frog and Toad" and on Thursday Kindergarten will be traveling to the Addison Gallery. All of these events are brought to you by the Sanborn PTO and your Fun Run Dollars.

As you may have heard the Fun Run is shifting to an indoor Dance Edition this year! The PTO's fundraiser will have a GLOW vibe this Valentine's Day. This fundraiser will fund all PTO enrichment activities for our students. See more information below in the PTO updates.

The temperature has certainly dropped this week! We also had snow on Thursday. We head outside unless temperatures fall to 19 degrees or below. Please make sure that your child comes to school with a coat. If they would like to play in the snow they need snow pants, boots and gloves. If you need assistance with winter outdoor clothing, please reach out to Jen Cann at jennifer.cann@andoverma.us. Thank you!

3rd Grade Strings Parents are invited to attend their child’s lesson on Wednesday morning, December 11, in the Music room. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear the class’s progress to date, receive more information about how to support your student’s music making at home, and ask any questions you may have.

Thank you so much to everyone who has donated to the Holiday Giving Drive. We are still accepting donations until Monday 12/9.

Head Lice: Parents are encouraged to check your child’s hair for head lice regularly. If you discover head lice or have any questions please contact the School Nurse at 978-247-9702.

Illness guidelines: It is that time of year again when colds, flu and other illnesses are circulating. To prevent illness you are encouraged to get updated flu and COVID vaccinations if you have not done so. Your child’s pediatrician can help to determine what your child’s vaccine needs are for this Fall.

If your child is ill, they can return to school when they have been fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication like Tylenol or ibuprofen ( Motrin). They should also be free of vomiting and diarrhea for 24 hours and should complete 24 hours on an antibiotic to return to school. These guidelines help to prevent the spread of illness at school. Please call the Absentee Line at 978-247-9701 if your child will be absent or tardy. Thank you!

If you are not sure if your child should return to school, please call the Sanborn Clinic to check in with the nurse.

Spare Clothing: The clinic is in need of gently used elastic waist girls pants. Donations can be sent into the clinic. If your child does come home with clothing borrowed from the clinic, please wash it and send it back to keep the borrowing closet going.

Also, it is recommended that you send a spare set of clothing to be stored in your child’s locker in case a change is needed during the school day. Children are much happier if they are able to change into their own clothing when necessary.

Please contact Lisa Slattery in the Sanborn Clinic with questions at 978-247-9702 or lisa.slattery@andoverma.us

-Monday, December 11: Grade 3 String Informance, All third grade parents/guardians invited. Please bring your ID.

Saturday, December 23 - Wednesday, January 1 Winter Recess - no school

Communication with our families is essential to the success and wellness of our students. To assist our families and help them connect with the appropriate staff who is best suited to answer questions, we have updated our “Who We Are” page on our website. The information will guide families to resources on how to reach staff with concerns and how to stay connected to news and events across the district.

• Reminder! Join us for our virtual PTO meeting on Monday, December 9th at 7pm! Meeting link.
• Get in the spirit with Sanborn parents! Join us for a table arrangement creation event, on 12/11 at 6:30pm at Konjoian's Greenhouse. We will provide light food and beverages, and you'll leave with a beautiful arrangement for your table! The event costs $50 which covers your arrangement, canapés and beverages. *If you can't make the event, but would like your own holiday table arrangement made for you - we've got you covered!* $50, and we will offer delivery right to your home, or you can pick up at Konjoian's directly. Fill out this form to secure your beautiful arrangement. Space is limited, so please fill out this form to lock in your spot!
• The Sanborn Fun Run is shifting to an indoor Fun Run Dance Edition this year! The fundraiser is the same, but with a cool GLOW in the dark vibe this Valentine’s Day. More details to come soon, ahead of our program kick-off on February 3rd. The proceeds of YOUR fundraising dollars pay for all of your child’s PTO-sponsored in-school enrichment programs, field trips, and Author’s Week.
• A few ways to stay up to date on the latest news and offerings from the PTO:
• The Bulldog Spirit is the monthly newsletter from the Sanborn PTO where they communicate about our school events, fundraisers, enrichment activities, etc. Sign up here.
• Bookmark the PTO website!
• For real-time updates during the school year, follow the Sanborn Community on social media: Facebook, Instagram
• Join your child's grade-level Facebook group - this group is just for kids in your child’s grade. Here you can connect, ask grade-specific questions, etc.