Dear West Elementary Families & Caregivers,

We hope this message finds you well! As we head into next week, we would like to share a few important reminders and highlights.

MCAS testing begins next week. We ask for your support in ensuring students are well-rested and arrive to school on time each day. Please remember that smart watches and/or cell phones must be powered down and will be collected during testing sessions in accordance with state guidelines.

As a general reminder, all student phones should remain on school mode throughout the day. Texting students during school hours is not necessary. If you need to reach your child, please call the main office, and we will be happy to assist you.

We are also excited to share that on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, our Grade 3 students will perform on their string instruments for our Grade 2 students. This is always a wonderful event and a great opportunity to inspire our next group of prospective orchestra members!

On Friday, April 9, 2026, our school will host “Warrior Way.” This special tradition brings scholar athletes to our elementary school to visit with our learners and share their experiences as athletes, academics, and community leaders.

Please note that Wednesday, April 8, 2026 is a half day. Kindly plan accordingly for dismissal.

Finally, to those observing the Easter season, we wish you a happy and healthy Easter Sunday. May the weeks ahead be filled with joy and time spent with loved ones.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Warmly,
Dr. Cobbs & Dr. Donaher

As the Andover School Committee moves forward in the process of selecting a new Superintendent, we are excited to announce upcoming engagement opportunities and a dedicated webpage for students, staff, and the community.

Complete the Survey

The New England School Development Council (NESDEC), our search consultant, will provide, administer, and analyze a survey available to students, staff, parents/caretakers, and residents. This survey will help to identify the characteristics of a Superintendent that are most important to our community. The survey opens today and will close on Friday, April 10th.

Memorial Hall Library and The Robb Center will have computers available to take the survey. Paper copies are available by contacting shauna.murray@andoverma.us. If you need translation services to complete the survey, please contact shauna.murray@andoverma.us

Attend a Focus Group or Join a School Committee Informal Forum!

NESDEC consultants will facilitate five Focus Groups and the Committee will host two Informal Forums during the week of April 13th. Please feel free to attend the session that best fits your role.

Selecting a Superintendent is one the School Committee’s most important responsibilities, and the School Committee is committed to a comprehensive, thorough, and transparent search for the best possible leader of our schools. We encourage your participation in this process. Thank you.

The West Elementary School is collecting cloting items and shoes for infants and toddlers. They can be new or used but in good condition. Donations will be collected through April 10, 2026.

Dr. Riley, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, is excited to share the next phase of our Vision of the Graduate (VoG) work with the Andover community. As you may know, over the past four years, the VoG design team has partnered with educators, students, families, and community members to shape the APS Vision of a Graduate—a shared vision for the skills and mindsets our students need to thrive now and in the future.

In the last issue of All Around APS, we introduced the student‑designed Vision of a Graduate (below) and a short Vision of a Graduate introductory video, showcasing the creativity and leadership of our learners.

*Hawaiian Day- Friday, May 1
Dress in your best summer gear or Hawaiian shirt!

*Fun Hair & Style Day - Friday, May 15
Celebrate fun hair and be creative with your style!

*School Spirit Day - Friday, May 22

The AHS Seniors are coming - let’s show them our West spirit!

*Pajama Day - Friday, June 12

At the request of many, one last day to come to school comfy in pajamas!