December 19, 2025

 

Principal's Message

Dear Families,

What a wonderful, festive week we've had at school! Our celebrations were capped off beautifully by amazing performances from Mr. Chippo and our talented 4th grade chorus. As we head into next week's shortened schedule, please note that winter break will begin at dismissal on Tuesday, December 23rd, and there will be no newsletter next week. When we return on January 5th, we'll continue our beloved tradition of kicking off the new year with a Cozy Pajama Day, so encourage your children to dress comfortably for that first day back. Wishing you all a restful and joyful break!

Warm regards,

Frank Rich, Principal

Sarah Desautel, Asst. Principal

 

Competency Determination

Massachusetts requires all students to meet Competency Determination (CD) requirements in order to graduate from high school. In November 2024, Ballot Question 2 updated this requirement by removing MCAS as the sole way students demonstrate competency. 

Because of this change, the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education updated its regulations and now requires school districts to explain how students will meet the new graduation requirements. The Attleboro School Committee approved an updated Competency Determination policy that outlines these expectations. 

Families can review the approved policy using the link provided. Please contact your school if you have any questions. 

 

ST Math 100% Club

 

As we begin the next term of the school year, we want to take a moment to remind everyone about the critical importance of school attendance. Research shows a strong connection between consistent attendance and academic success. When students are absent, they miss learning opportunities, access to resources, and connections with peers and teachers. These absences add up and can significantly impact your student's progress.

While we recognize the importance of family time, cultural experiences, and enrichment activities, we urge families to weigh these opportunities against the impact of missed instructional time. Also, absences due to vacations or extracurricular activities/events are considered unexcused under district and state attendance guidelines.

If you have any questions about attendance or need support ensuring your child is in school, please feel free to contact us. We are here to support you and your child's success.

Thank you for your continued partnership in your child's education.

 

This Month in PE

Happy Holidays to you and yours!  We have embraced the holiday season with several  holiday themed activities.  My personal favorite being anything and everything Grinch related!

Students are working hard on various movement themed skills and most importantly demonstrating good sportsmanship.  The core of our Physical Education program here at Thacher is teaching life skills and how to work and communicate with others.  

Enjoy your much needed family time together.  Please encourage your kiddos to go outside and MOVE as much as possible.  The more our students move the happier they are, the happier they are the better learners they become!

PE SHOES Reminder:

With the cold and snowy months approaching, please remember that students need to have sneakers for PE class. Snow boots make it difficult and unsafe for students to participate in the many running, movement, and skill-based activities we do each day. Students are welcome to bring sneakers to school and change out of their boots before gym. Thank you for helping us keep everyone safe, comfortable, and ready to move!

Sincerely,

Danny Rendell, Physical Education

 

Kindness Closet in need of new boys underwear : size small, medium, large

 

Upcoming Important Information & Dates

2025-2026 District Calendar of Events (click to view)

December 24 - January 4: No School - Winter Break

January 5: Return to School/PJ Cozy Day

January 16: Early Release Day (for staff Professional Development)

January 19: No School in Observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

 

Welcome Center Update

Contact or visit the Welcome Center for access to Community Resources, Community Flyers, and support for all things APS.  

APS Community Flyers 

The APS Community Flyers page includes both APS and local events and resources. Included this week are winter break snack packs from the Family Resource Center, the AHS Financial Aid & Scholarship night, and information on spring sports. 

 
Thacher Panda Pride

Visit our Thacher website

Contact Us

Main Office Phone: (508) 226-4162

School Clerks:

Raeanne Alves ralves@attleboroschools.com

Debbie Cornetta dcornetta@attleboroschools.com

Administration:

Principal Frank Rich frich@attleboroschools.com

Asst. Principal Sarah Desautel sdesautel@attleboroschools.com

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