Parker School accepting applications

Applications are now available at the Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School for students who will be entering grade seven next fall.

The Parker School is an innovative secondary school serving 393 students in grades seven through twelve. Located on Devens, the former military base, Parker is a regional public school that currently draws from 20 school districts and more than 40 towns.

An information program will be held at the school from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 8, and Sunday, Jan. 22. (Plan to stay for the whole program.)

It is highly recommended that all prospective students and their parents attend an information session as part of the application process. This Sunday afternoon program will offer an overview of the curriculum. Parker staff, current students, and parents will be on hand to answer questions about the academic program, extracurricular activities, and student life.

The Parker School is affiliated with the Coalition of Essential Schools and is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. The school is deliberately structured to help children learn to use their minds well.

The school expects to enroll 65 seventh graders for the 2012-13 academic year; the school will hold a lottery if the number of applicants exceeds the number of available seats.

Interested students or parents may call the school at 978-772-3293 to obtain an application packet. Applications must be completed by Wednesday, Feb. 1.

Families are encouraged to visit the school’s website at www.parker.org for more information about the school.

Christmas shopping at Bargains in the Belfry

A large selection of  Hallmark Christmas ornaments, other holiday decorations, and some holiday clothing are featured in the Bargains in the Belfry shop at the Harvard Unitarian Church on Tuesdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. this month. The shop also will be open Saturday, Dec. 17, from 10 a.m. to noon. All are welcome to come and browse.