Thursday, June 17, 2021

Thursday, June 17, 2021

  • Did you all know this is the first time the state of Massachusetts will officially recognize Juneteenth as a state holidayJuneteenth (short for “June Nineteenth”) marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be freed. The troops’ arrival came a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth honors the end to slavery in the United States and is considered the longest-running African American holiday. It is also called Freedom Day! All students who are currently enrolled in English classes will examine this Juneteenth Slideshow! which explores so many educational and interactive community events this weekend--all centered around this important day. If you don't have an English class today, please open the slides and learn about the panels, community parties, reception, and civil war events (including about the 54th regiment of black soldiers, some from our area!) happening in OUR town! Teachers may give extra credit if you attend these events (ask!).
  • Can you run from the front of the school to the bus waiting for you?  That's all we need for you to sign on as a cross-country runner on next year's edition of the ARHS boys team.  Meet at the tree on the football field at 2:30 on Tuesday, June 22, for all the information you need to train wisely and prepare for a season of outdoor adventure and camaraderie.  Do the right thing!  I'm talking you you, ultimate players!
  • Football meeting Update! Are you interested in joining the football team next fall? Come meet the new coach in the high school gymnasium on Monday June 21st at 3:30 pm. We hope to see you there!--
  • We have three new one-time Alternative Learning Program elective course offerings (Unlike our Chinese, French, Latin, Spanish courses, they will not satisfy world language requirements for colleges).

    The ALP courses are:

    The History of Rock’N’Roll-ALP

    Credits: [2]

    Prerequisite: None

    Teacher: Frank Vaissiere


    This course will study the history of Rock’N’Roll and the social changes it did bring about in the past 70 years. Students will examine the early musical styles that led to the creation of Rock’N’Roll of the 1950s, the British Invasion of the 1960s, Heavy Metal, Punk Rock, New Wave, Goth Rock, Grunge, and other styles of the twenty-first century. The course will have an emphasis on societal, political, cultural, and sartorial contexts and on the music itself. Students will develop active listening skills and the ability to discuss Rock music through readings assignments, group discussions, oral presentations, writings essays, and tests. 

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    Conversational Italian-ALP

    Credits: [2]

    Prerequisite: None

    Teacher: Frank Vaissiere


    This course meets the needs of high school students, 9-12, beginning the study of Italian. Emphasis is on developing oral proficiency and listening comprehension. Reading and writing skills will be addressed in introductory activities to reinforce oral and listening skills. Cultural aspects of the language will be introduced on an ongoing basis. Homework is to be expected daily.

    Conversational Wolof-ALP

    Credits: [2]

    Prerequisite: None

    Teacher: Oumy Cisse


    Wolof is one of the local languages spoken in Senegal. It is also spoken in The Gambia and in Mauritania. During this ALP class, you will be introduced to the basic day-to-day conversations in Wolof. You will also learn about Senegal and its rich history and culture through music, dance, literature, local art etc...


    If you would like to sign up for one of these ALP courses please fill out this form

  • Seeking 2 HS student interns to work on a summer mural project being painted for the front of Fort River school.  Responsibilities include attending regular painting sessions, working with younger students to paint, organizing materials and mixing colors, and communicating with families. Ideal candidates will be reliable, have strong interest or experience in visual art, effective communication skills, experience working with younger students. Spanish bilingual preferred but not required. $500 stipend. Exact schedule to be determined. Interested students may apply by contacting Katie Richardson, richardsonkn@arps.org

  • The Amherst Hurricane Boosters needs your help this summer.

    We’re looking for volunteers who would like to assist with some important projects that are going to make all Amherst Regional sports teams even better.

    Whatever time you can donate — even if it’s just a couple of hours this entire summer  you could help us with...

    • A new Hurricane Alley Trophy Case so we can display our teams’ championship seasons and other awards with pride.
    • A September golf tournament and more events that are going to raise thousands for college scholarships and much needed equipment.
    • A new web page and could use your help writing content, taking photos, and posting to social media.

    If you’re interested, please complete this quick form!

  • Please check out the June issue of The Graphic, complete with 17 great new stories by senior writers from the LGBTQ Literature/Journalism combo lit class. 
    Stories include: examining comfort dog Winston’s role at school, teacher retirees, the return to in-person school, pandemic jobs, the musical, gap years, body art, nature outings during COVID, and much much more! Happy reading!