FEATURED BEGINNER MUSIC CLASSES
Community Music School of Springfield
Springfield, MA

Community Music School of Springfield offers safe, weekly, in-person music classes for your youngest musician! Babies & toddlers and their parents/caregivers will love Little Notes, a class designed for bonding, brain development, fun, and musical connection with others. For your preschool, pre-k, or kindergarten music lover, CMSS offers beginner classes in guitar, piano, Suzuki violin, and bucket drumming. No instruments or experience is required as your child is introduced to the instrument while collaborating and having fun with the others in their small group. Each class is taught by expert musicians committed to helping your little one develop a lifelong love for music and creativity. Enrolling is easy, and payment plans are available.

FEATURED MUSIC SCHOOL
Berkshire Music School
Pittsfield, MA

Berkshire Music School is enrolling for the fall 2021 semester! Take a private lesson or Community Group Class in-person at BMS’s historic campus or online. Private lessons are offered in any orchestral or band instrument as well as voice & theory. Lessons may be arranged for 30, 45, 60, or 90 minutes each week to meet the needs of the individual student and may begin at any point during the year. Online lessons are conducted via Zoom, FaceTime, or Skype, and students should have access to a computer or iPad with internet connection. BMS’s fun Community Group Classes are offered on a pay-what-you-can basis, with suggested tuition listed for each course. For more information: cpearson@berkshiremusicschool.org; 413-442-1411; www.berkshiremusicschool.org

FEATURED SCHOOL
The Bement School
Deerfield, MA

Bement School LIVE Virtual Tours. Join the admission office for a LIVE virtual campus tour. These LIVE virtual tours will give you the opportunity to learn a bit more about Bement and see their students and faculty.  Throughout September and October, they are offering one-hour campus tours and Q&A sessions on Tuesday mornings from 8:30-9:30am. Registration is required. Participants will receive a Zoom invitation. Bement School is accepting applications for fall 2022. Contact the admission office at admit@bement.org with questions or to register for one of their virtual tours. The Bement School is a co-ed and boarding school for K-9 in Deerfield, MA. www.bement.org

FEATURED MUSIC SCHOOL
Miss Leticia Music School
Amherst, MA

Ukulele, Guitar, Bass, Drums, Rock Band, and Voice in person and online for all ages. Beginning Groups include Beginning I & II Ukulele/Guitar, Bass, Drums, or Voice. Intermediate and advanced groups include Acoustic and Electric Guitar, Ukulele, Bass, Drums, Rock Band, and Voice. Adult Guitar, Ukulele, and Rock Band Groups are offered. Teachers include: Miss Leticia (guitar, ukulele, rock band, voice); Rusty Daniels (guitar, ukulele, bass, drums, rock band); Rhys Davies (adult rock band). After school, evening, and weekend classes. For more information: missleticia@missleticia.com; 413-246-7338; missleticia.com.

FEATURED TEEN PROGRAM
Circles for Jewish Living Teen Programs
Northampton, MA

Circles for Jewish Living’s two new monthly teen programs provide a safe space for teens to explore the world they live in and discover who they want to be in that world. Their programs build community, trust, and strong Jewish identity, with resources to stimulate connections between the world teens navigate and leadership that inspires. For more information: cjl.alisonmorse@gmail.com; 413-559-9208; www.circlesforjewishliving.com

FEATURED MUSICAL THEATER CLASSES
The Academy of Music Theatre
Florence & Holyoke, MA

Register now! Youth Fall Classes at the Academy of Music Theatre are open for enrollment. Come sing and dance in musical theater classes for ages 6-8, 9-11, and 13-18.

Classes will be held at Pine Box Studios in Florence and at El Mercado in Holyoke on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings starting October 19th.

For more information, visit www.aomtheatre.com.

FEATURED MUSIC SCHOOL
Miss Leticia Music School
Amherst, MA

Ukulele, Guitar, Bass, Drums, Rock Band, and Voice in person and online for all ages. Beginning Groups include Beginning I & II Ukulele/Guitar, Bass, Drums, or Voice. Intermediate and advanced groups include Acoustic and Electric Guitar, Ukulele, Bass, Drums, Rock Band, and Voice. Adult Guitar, Ukulele, and Rock Band Groups are offered. Teachers include: Miss Leticia (guitar, ukulele, rock band, voice); Rusty Daniels (guitar, ukulele, bass, drums, rock band); Rhys Davies (adult rock band). After school, evening, and weekend classes. For more information: missleticia@missleticia.com; 413-246-7338; missleticia.com.

FEATURED TEEN PROGRAM
Circles for Jewish Living Teen Programs
Northampton, MA

Circles for Jewish Living’s two new monthly teen programs provide a safe space for teens to explore the world they live in and discover who they want to be in that world. Their programs build community, trust, and strong Jewish identity, with resources to stimulate connections between the world teens navigate and leadership that inspires. For more information: cjl.alisonmorse@gmail.com; 413-559-9208; www.circlesforjewishliving.com

FEATURED MUSIC SCHOOL
Berkshire Music School
Pittsfield, MA

Berkshire Music School is enrolling for the fall 2021 semester! Take a private lesson or Community Group Class in-person at BMS’s historic campus or online. Private lessons are offered in any orchestral or band instrument as well as voice & theory. Lessons may be arranged for 30, 45, 60, or 90 minutes each week to meet the needs of the individual student and may begin at any point during the year. Online lessons are conducted via Zoom, FaceTime, or Skype, and students should have access to a computer or iPad with internet connection. BMS’s fun Community Group Classes are offered on a pay-what-you-can basis, with suggested tuition listed for each course. For more information: cpearson@berkshiremusicschool.org; 413-442-1411; www.berkshiremusicschool.org

FEATURED NATURE-BASED PROGRAM
Grow Wild Association
Hinsdale, MA

Grow Wild Association is organized for educational, personal, and spiritual development, relying on a strongly held belief in and interdependence with nature. Grow Wild Association hosts an outdoor nature-based program for homeschool-aged children, adult classes, enrichment programs, and tutoring. They believe nature is our best and most important teacher, and children are innate learners who naturally follow their own sense of wonder. Mixed-age children’s groupings allow for role modeling, responsibility, community building, and multidirectional learning. All information/programs/services are intended for association members only. They’re accepting new members now! For more information: growwildlearning@protonmail.com; 413-464-2507; www.growwildlearning.com.

FEATURED SCHOOL
The Bement School
Deerfield, MA

Bement School LIVE Virtual Tours. Join the admission office for a LIVE virtual campus tour. These LIVE virtual tours will give you the opportunity to learn a bit more about Bement and see their students and faculty.  Throughout September and October, they are offering one-hour campus tours and Q&A sessions on Tuesday mornings from 8:30-9:30am. Registration is required. Participants will receive a Zoom invitation. Bement School is accepting applications for fall 2022. Contact the admission office at admit@bement.org with questions or to register for one of their virtual tours. The Bement School is a co-ed and boarding school for K-9 in Deerfield, MA. www.bement.org

FEATURED SALE
River Valley Co-Op
Shelburne Falls, MA

The popular River Valley Co-op Truckload Sale is back! Come stock up and save during this huge sale in the parking lot of their Northampton and Easthampton stores September 3rd–6th. Score big discounts of up to 50% OFF full cases! Save on pantry staples like organic olive oil, canned tuna, and peanut butter, household items such as laundry detergent and hand soap, and frozen items like burritos, pizzas, and local ground beef. The savings continue inside the store with 20% OFF all co-op brand supplements and 10% OFF all wine. Please note that pre-orders are not accepted and sales are only available while supplies last. Sales may not be combined with other discounts, coupons, and promotions. rivervalley.coop/truckloadsale

FEATURED DANCE CLASSES
Great Falls Creative Movement
Turners Falls, MA

Great Falls Creative Movement offers unique dance programming for kids (and sometimes adults!) at their studio, outdoors, and in partnership with schools and constituent-based groups. All dance classes include improvisation, social dance, therapeutic dance, and concert dance practices and support participants’ positive relationship with their own mind/body/spirit, with each other, and with the wider world. Studio and outdoor classes open in September and January, with an open house at the beginning of each session. School residencies supported by the Mass Cultural Council, as well as programs designed for specific groups, are available on an ongoing basis. All programs will comply with CDC guidelines for COVID safety. For more information: studio.movement@gmail.com; 413-834-4644; greatfallscreativemovement.com.

FEATURED NATURE-BASED PROGRAM
Grow Wild Association
Hinsdale, MA

Grow Wild Association is organized for educational, personal, and spiritual development, relying on a strongly held belief in and interdependence with nature. Grow Wild Association hosts an outdoor nature-based program for homeschool-aged children, adult classes, enrichment programs, and tutoring. They believe nature is our best and most important teacher, and children are innate learners who naturally follow their own sense of wonder. Mixed-age children’s groupings allow for role modeling, responsibility, community building, and multidirectional learning. All information/programs/services are intended for association members only. They’re accepting new members now! For more information: growwildlearning@protonmail.com; 413-464-2507; www.growwildlearning.com.

FEATURED DAYCARE & PRESCHOOL
Valley Playschool
Shelburne Falls, MA

Daycare. Preschool. ♦ Ages 8mo-6yrs
For more information: ahawk@girlsclubofgreenfield.org; 413-625-2406; www.girlsclubofgreenfield.org.

Valley Play School is located in the heart of Shelburne Falls. It is a branch of the Girls Club of Greenfield and offers a variety of full and part time options for parents as well as a variety of subsidies. It operates year round, Monday through Friday from 8am-4:30pm, with breakfast and snack served daily. Two classrooms serve children 8 months to 6 years. VPS’s methods emphasize low teacher/student ratios and a healthy, enriching environment where children learn through their play and process has more importance than product. Children learn by doing in a supportive, nurturing environment that promotes pro-social behaviors. It provides diverse opportunities for quality interactions, connections and school readiness.

FEATURED MUSIC SCHOOL
Berkshire Music School
Pittsfield, MA

Berkshire Music School is enrolling for the fall 2021 semester! Take a private lesson or Community Group Class in-person at BMS’s historic campus or online. Private lessons are offered in any orchestral or band instrument as well as voice & theory. Lessons may be arranged for 30, 45, 60, or 90 minutes each week to meet the needs of the individual student and may begin at any point during the year. Online lessons are conducted via Zoom, FaceTime, or Skype, and students should have access to a computer or iPad with internet connection. BMS’s fun Community Group Classes are offered on a pay-what-you-can basis, with suggested tuition listed for each course. For more information: cpearson@berkshiremusicschool.org; 413-442-1411; www.berkshiremusicschool.org

FEATURED SCHOOL
The Bement School
Deerfield, MA

Bement School LIVE Virtual Tours. Join the admission office for a LIVE virtual campus tour. These LIVE virtual tours will give you the opportunity to learn a bit more about Bement and see their students and faculty.  Throughout September and October, they are offering one-hour campus tours and Q&A sessions on Tuesday mornings from 8:30-9:30am. Registration is required. Participants will receive a Zoom invitation. Bement School is accepting applications for fall 2022. Contact the admission office at admit@bement.org with questions or to register for one of their virtual tours. The Bement School is a co-ed and boarding school for K-9 in Deerfield, MA. www.bement.org

FEATURED SALE
River Valley Co-Op
Northampton & Easthampton, MA

The popular River Valley Co-op Truckload Sale is back! Come stock up and save during this huge sale in the parking lot of their Northampton and Easthampton stores September 3rd–6th. Score big discounts of up to 50% OFF full cases! Save on pantry staples like organic olive oil, canned tuna, and peanut butter, household items such as laundry detergent and hand soap, and frozen items like burritos, pizzas, and local ground beef. The savings continue inside the store with 20% OFF all co-op brand supplements and 10% OFF all wine. Please note that pre-orders are not accepted and sales are only available while supplies last. Sales may not be combined with other discounts, coupons, and promotions.
rivervalley.coop/truckloadsale

FEATURED MUSIC CLASSES
Community Music School of Springfield
Springfield, MA

Experience the joy, creativity, and connection found when making music! Community Music School of Springfield (CMSS) is now enrolling for in-person and virtual music lessons, classes, and ensembles for students of all ages and levels. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned musician, CMSS takes the time to match you with a teacher who will help you accomplish your personal musical goals. Offering instruction in over 30 instruments and voice, their registration team can help you decide whether to rent or purchase your instrument. Getting started is easy – your music lesson or class is just a click or phone call away! For more info: 
info@communitymusicschool.com; 413-732-8428; communitymusicschool.com.

FEATURED DANCE CLASSES
Great Falls Creative Movement
Turners Falls, MA

Great Falls Creative Movement offers unique dance programming for kids (and sometimes adults!) at their studio, outdoors, and in partnership with schools and constituent-based groups. All dance classes include improvisation, social dance, therapeutic dance, and concert dance practices and support participants’ positive relationship with their own mind/body/spirit, with each other, and with the wider world. Studio and outdoor classes open in September and January, with an open house at the beginning of each session. School residencies supported by the Mass Cultural Council, as well as programs designed for specific groups, are available on an ongoing basis. All programs will comply with CDC guidelines for COVID safety. For more information: studio.movement@gmail.com; 413-834-4644; greatfallscreativemovement.com.

FEATURED MUSIC LESSONS
Downtown Sounds Music School
Northampton, MA

Downtown Sounds Music School provides music education for a wide variety of instruments. They offer online lessons seven days a week for guitar, piano, voice, bass, drums, percussion, ukulele, brass and woodwind instruments, mandolin, and more. Whether students are just starting, looking to expand their abilities, or learning to play a favorite song, their teachers are passionate about working with students of all ages to meet their musical goals! For more information: lessons@downtownsounds.com; 413-586-0998; downtownsounds.com.

FEATURED SCHOOL
The Bement School
Deerfield, MA

Bement School Virtual Coffee Hour. Join the admission office for a coffee hour starting September 16. Drop in to ask questions about their program as you begin to consider educational options for your child. Each Thursday morning at 8am, a member of the admission office will be available to talk and share with you what makes Bement an incredible educational opportunity. Registration is required. You will receive a Zoom invitation. They are accepting applications for fall 2022. Contact the admission office at admit@bement.org with questions or to register for one of their coffee hours. The Bement School is a co-ed and boarding school for K-9 in Deerfield, MA. www.bement.org

FEATURED DAYCARE & PRESCHOOL
Valley Playschool
Shelburne Falls, MA

Daycare. Preschool. ♦ Ages 8mo-6yrs
For more information: ahawk@girlsclubofgreenfield.org; 413-625-2406; www.girlsclubofgreenfield.org.

Valley Play School is located in the heart of Shelburne Falls. It is a branch of the Girls Club of Greenfield and offers a variety of full and part time options for parents as well as a variety of subsidies. It operates year round, Monday through Friday from 8am-4:30pm, with breakfast and snack served daily. Two classrooms serve children 8 months to 6 years. VPS’s methods emphasize low teacher/student ratios and a healthy, enriching environment where children learn through their play and process has more importance than product. Children learn by doing in a supportive, nurturing environment that promotes pro-social behaviors. It provides diverse opportunities for quality interactions, connections and school readiness.

Biocitizen Free Ranger Field Environmental Philosophy Adventures in Westhampton, MA, is an action-based, peripatetic investigation of natural and cultural history. These histories are “writ large” in the places participants study, and students learn how to read them while they hike. As Summer turns into Fall, Free Rangers investigate the transformations the biome and its creatures undergo. Students explore Northampton’s environs, focusing on places they don’t usually have access to, and learn about our “place” in the biome: by a great living river coursing through deep and rich soils cradled by foothills with wild ridges, cliffs, and rainforest canyons. For more information: kheidinger@biocitizen.org; 413-320-0522; ma.biocitizen.org/portfolio/free-rangers-summer-into-fall.

FEATURED MUSEUM
Smith College Museum of Art
Northampton, MA

Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) in Northampton, MA, announces its Reopening Weekend, Friday, August 27 through Sunday, August 29, 2021. Admission will be FREE all weekend. SCMA staff are delighted to welcome visitors back to the museum after being closed since March of 2020. Before your arrival, please take a moment to visit scma.smith.edu for health and safety information and further details that will help make your visit as safe, easy, and enjoyable as possible. 

FEATURED MUSIC CLASSES
Community Music School of Springfield
Springfield, MA

Experience the joy, creativity, and connection found when making music! Community Music School of Springfield (CMSS) is now enrolling for in-person and virtual music lessons, classes, and ensembles for students of all ages and levels. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned musician, CMSS takes the time to match you with a teacher who will help you accomplish your personal musical goals. Offering instruction in over 30 instruments and voice, their registration team can help you decide whether to rent or purchase your instrument. Getting started is easy – your music lesson or class is just a click or phone call away! For more info: 
info@communitymusicschool.com; 413-732-8428; communitymusicschool.com.

FEATURED CLASSES
Whole Children
Hadley, MA

Whole Children’s goal is to create an inclusive environment where every child is successful and valued for who they are, no matter their abilities or disabilities. Classes emphasize skill-building, social skills, self-advocacy, and just plain fun. They offer a diverse roster of afterschool and weekend classes, including gymnastics, yoga, theater, art, music, cooking, performing arts, and so much more. Whole Children is filling a vital need by creating classes where the hard work of skill-building is made social and fun for children of all abilities and, perhaps just as importantly, by creating a supportive and caring community for their parents. For more information: info@wholechildren.org; 413-585-8010; www.wholechildren.org.

FEATURED ICE SKATING CLASSES
The Skating Club of Amherst
Amherst, MA

Good News! After a long absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, The Skating Club of Amherst will be resuming their full ice schedule in September. The Skating Club of Amherst figure skating club offers professional instruction at all levels, beginner to advanced, recreational or competitive. Their popular Learn-to-Skate program offers group lessons for ages 4-adult on Sundays at 5:50pm. Additional instruction is offered in free-skate, ice dancing, & testing for those looking to advance their skills further. All sessions are held at the UMass Mullins Center Practice Rink. The club is a member of United States Figure Skating & is a private, non-profit organization managed by volunteers. Registration forms for Sept, Nov, Jan & April are online. For more information: SCofAmherst@gmail.com; 413-253-6388; www.scamherst.org.

FEATURED THEATER CLASSES
Starlight’s Youth Theatre
Sunderland, MA

Starlight’s Youth Theatre offers in-person classes beginning in Sept 2021 on Saturday mornings & Monday evenings. Fall classes include: The Unique Unicorn for grades 1-3 on Saturdays (9/4-10/23) from 9-9:45am; Alice in Wonderland for grades 3-5 on Saturdays (9/4-10/23) from 10-10:45am; Fight for the Right, the Susan B. Anthony Story for grades 6-9 on Saturdays (9/4-11/6) from 11am-12pm; Doctor Doolittle for grades 3-5 on Mondays (9/13-11/6) from 4-4:45pm; Sherlock Holmes & Dr. Watson for grades 6-9 on Mondays (9/13-11/1) from 5-6pm. Costs: $125-$145. Performance locations include Eric Carle Museum, Northampton Center for the Arts, and Maple Ridge. Classes are held at Maple Ridge Community Center. More info: www.starlights-youth-theatre.com.

FEATURED MUSIC LESSONS
Downtown Sounds Music School
Northampton, MA

Downtown Sounds Music School provides music education for a wide variety of instruments. They offer online lessons seven days a week for guitar, piano, voice, bass, drums, percussion, ukulele, brass and woodwind instruments, mandolin, and more. Whether students are just starting, looking to expand their abilities, or learning to play a favorite song, their teachers are passionate about working with students of all ages to meet their musical goals! For more information: lessons@downtownsounds.com; 413-586-0998; downtownsounds.com.

FEATURED NATURE-BASED PROGRAM
Grow Wild Association
Hinsdale, MA

Grow Wild Association is organized for educational, personal, and spiritual development, relying on a strongly held belief in and interdependence with nature. Grow Wild Association hosts an outdoor nature-based program for homeschool-aged children, adult classes, enrichment programs, and tutoring. They believe nature is our best and most important teacher, and children are innate learners who naturally follow their own sense of wonder. Mixed-age children’s groupings allow for role modeling, responsibility, community building, and multidirectional learning. All information/programs/services are intended for association members only. They’re accepting new members now! For more information: growwildlearning@protonmail.com; 413-464-2507; www.growwildlearning.com.

FEATURED SCHOOL
The Bement School
Deerfield, MA

Bement School Virtual Coffee Hour. Join the admission office for a coffee hour starting September 16. Drop in to ask questions about their program as you begin to consider educational options for your child. Each Thursday morning at 8am, a member of the admission office will be available to talk and share with you what makes Bement an incredible educational opportunity. Registration is required. You will receive a Zoom invitation. They are accepting applications for fall 2022. Contact the admission office at admit@bement.org with questions or to register for one of their coffee hours. The Bement School is a co-ed and boarding school for K-9 in Deerfield, MA. www.bement.org

FEATURED EARLY EDUCATION
Community Action’s
Head Start & Early Learning Programs

Daycare. Preschool. Early Childhood Education Program. ♦ Ages 6wks-5yrs
For more information: 413-387-1250; www.communityaction.us.

Community Action’s Head Start & Early Learning Programs offer a variety of program options for pregnant women and families with children ages birth-5 throughout Hampshire, Franklin, & Western Hampden Counties. Community Action’s Head Start provides early education and care and quality comprehensive services to children in Head Start/Early Head Start programs, offering full-day and part-day center-based classrooms, family childcare, and home visiting. Centers are located in Orange, Turners Falls, Greenfield, Amherst, Northampton, Easthampton, Ware, Westfield, & Agawam. All services are provided at either low or no cost to eligible children and families.

Biocitizen Free Ranger Field Environmental Philosophy Adventures in Westhampton, MA, is an action-based, peripatetic investigation of natural and cultural history. These histories are “writ large” in the places participants study, and students learn how to read them while they hike. As Summer turns into Fall, Free Rangers investigate the transformations the biome and its creatures undergo. Students explore Northampton’s environs, focusing on places they don’t usually have access to, and learn about our “place” in the biome: by a great living river coursing through deep and rich soils cradled by foothills with wild ridges, cliffs, and rainforest canyons. For more information: kheidinger@biocitizen.org; 413-320-0522; ma.biocitizen.org/portfolio/free-rangers-summer-into-fall.

FEATURED EVENT
Back Porch Bluegrass Festival
Northampton, MA

Signature Sounds Presents is thrilled to bring the first Back Porch Bluegrass Festival on Sunday, August 15th, to the beautiful Pines Theater at Look Park. The festival will feature the best in bluegrass on two stages with Del McCoury Band, Sierra Hull & Justin Moses,Tony Trischka with Michael Daves & Bruce Molsky, Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Brennen Leigh & Noel Mckay, Nora Brown, Rose & The Bros, and Mamma’s Marmalade. The music goes from 12-7:30 pm.There will be food trucks and beer and wine available for purchase. Kids 10 and under are free! Tickets are on sale now at
www.signaturesoundspresents.com.

FEATURED CLASSES
Berkshire Pulse
Housatonic, MA

Summer and Fall Classes. Berkshire Pulse is a dynamic, welcoming, nonprofit dance, world music and movement arts education center. Outdoor, virtual and in-studio year-round programming provides children, teens and adults the opportunity to engage in the joys of movement, music and performance, while experiencing the rewards of community involvement and fitness – plus the vast benefits of artistic exploration and expression. High-caliber, professional teaching artists offer ongoing classes and workshops from beginner to advanced levels in Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Creative Dance, Choreography, Musical Theater, Tap, African Dance, Flamenco, Latin Dance, Scottish Folk Dance, World Music Percussion, Hip Hop, Cardio Groove, Tai Chi, Zumba, Yoga, Pilates and more. For more information: berkshire.pulse@gmail.com; 413-274-6624; berkshirepulse.org.

FEATURED CLASSES
Whole Children
Hadley, MA

Whole Children’s goal is to create an inclusive environment where every child is successful and valued for who they are, no matter their abilities or disabilities. Classes emphasize skill-building, social skills, self-advocacy, and just plain fun. They offer a diverse roster of afterschool and weekend classes, including gymnastics, yoga, theater, art, music, cooking, performing arts, and so much more. Whole Children is filling a vital need by creating classes where the hard work of skill-building is made social and fun for children of all abilities and, perhaps just as importantly, by creating a supportive and caring community for their parents. For more information: info@wholechildren.org; 413-585-8010; www.wholechildren.org.

FEATURED ICE SKATING CLASSES
The Skating Club of Amherst
Amherst, MA

Good News! After a long absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, The Skating Club of Amherst will be resuming their full ice schedule in September. The Skating Club of Amherst figure skating club offers professional instruction at all levels, beginner to advanced, recreational or competitive. Their popular Learn-to-Skate program offers group lessons for ages 4-adult on Sundays at 5:50pm. Additional instruction is offered in free-skate, ice dancing, & testing for those looking to advance their skills further. All sessions are held at the UMass Mullins Center Practice Rink. The club is a member of United States Figure Skating & is a private, non-profit organization managed by volunteers. Registration forms for Sept, Nov, Jan & April are online. For more information: SCofAmherst@gmail.com; 413-253-6388; www.scamherst.org.

FEATURED THEATER CLASSES
Starlight’s Youth Theatre
Sunderland, MA

Starlight’s Youth Theatre offers in-person classes beginning in Sept 2021 on Saturday mornings & Monday evenings. Fall classes include: The Unique Unicorn for grades 1-3 on Saturdays (9/4-10/23) from 9-9:45am; Alice in Wonderland for grades 3-5 on Saturdays (9/4-10/23) from 10-10:45am; Fight for the Right, the Susan B. Anthony Story for grades 6-9 on Saturdays (9/4-11/6) from 11am-12pm; Doctor Doolittle for grades 3-5 on Mondays (9/13-11/6) from 4-4:45pm; Sherlock Holmes & Dr. Watson for grades 6-9 on Mondays (9/13-11/1) from 5-6pm. Costs: $125-$145. Performance locations include Eric Carle Museum, Northampton Center for the Arts, and Maple Ridge. Classes are held at Maple Ridge Community Center. More info: www.starlights-youth-theatre.com.

FEATURED NATURE-BASED PROGRAM
Grow Wild Association
Hinsdale, MA

Grow Wild Association is organized for educational, personal, and spiritual development, relying on a strongly held belief in and interdependence with nature. Grow Wild Association hosts an outdoor nature-based program for homeschool-aged children, adult classes, enrichment programs, and tutoring. They believe nature is our best and most important teacher, and children are innate learners who naturally follow their own sense of wonder. Mixed-age children’s groupings allow for role modeling, responsibility, community building, and multidirectional learning. All information/programs/services are intended for association members only. They’re accepting new members now! For more information: growwildlearning@protonmail.com; 413-464-2507; www.growwildlearning.com.

FEATURED EARLY EDUCATION
Community Action’s
Head Start & Early Learning Programs

Daycare. Preschool. Early Childhood Education Program. ♦ Ages 6wks-5yrs
For more information: 413-387-1250; www.communityaction.us.

Community Action’s Head Start & Early Learning Programs offer a variety of program options for pregnant women and families with children ages birth-5 throughout Hampshire, Franklin, & Western Hampden Counties. Community Action’s Head Start provides early education and care and quality comprehensive services to children in Head Start/Early Head Start programs, offering full-day and part-day center-based classrooms, family childcare, and home visiting. Centers are located in Orange, Turners Falls, Greenfield, Amherst, Northampton, Easthampton, Ware, Westfield, & Agawam. All services are provided at either low or no cost to eligible children and families.

FEATURED CLASSES
Berkshire Pulse
Housatonic, MA

Summer and Fall Classes. Berkshire Pulse is a dynamic, welcoming, nonprofit dance, world music and movement arts education center. Outdoor, virtual and in-studio year-round programming provides children, teens and adults the opportunity to engage in the joys of movement, music and performance, while experiencing the rewards of community involvement and fitness – plus the vast benefits of artistic exploration and expression. High-caliber, professional teaching artists offer ongoing classes and workshops from beginner to advanced levels in Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Creative Dance, Choreography, Musical Theater, Tap, African Dance, Flamenco, Latin Dance, Scottish Folk Dance, World Music Percussion, Hip Hop, Cardio Groove, Tai Chi, Zumba, Yoga, Pilates and more. For more information: berkshire.pulse@gmail.com; 413-274-6624; berkshirepulse.org.

FEATURED EVENT
Back Porch Bluegrass Festival
Northampton, MA

Signature Sounds Presents is thrilled to bring the first Back Porch Bluegrass Festival on Sunday, August 15th, to the beautiful Pines Theater at Look Park. The festival will feature the best in bluegrass on two stages with Del McCoury Band, Sierra Hull & Justin Moses,Tony Trischka with Michael Daves & Bruce Molsky, Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Brennen Leigh & Noel Mckay, Nora Brown, Rose & The Bros, and Mamma’s Marmalade. The music goes from 12-7:30 pm.There will be food trucks and beer and wine available for purchase. Kids 10 and under are free! Tickets are on sale now at
www.signaturesoundspresents.com.

FEATURED MIDDLE SCHOOL
Four Winds School
Gill, MA

Four Winds School in Gill, MA, is currently accepting applications for the fall from 5th, 6th, and 7th grade students. The Four Winds curriculum provides a balance between focused training in basic academic skills and the freedom for students to explore their interests. Teacher and student work together to design an individualized academic program based on these evaluations and the student’s learning style. More info: fourwindsschool.info

“Four Winds isn’t a school for exceptional children. It is an exceptional school for children. [We] couldn’t be happier with our experience at Four Winds.” -Lili Dwight, parent

FEATURED SCHOOL
Stoneleigh-Burnham School
Greenfield, MA

Founded in 1869, Stoneleigh-Burnham School (SBS), an independent boarding & day school for girls in grades 7-12, has been a part of the Pioneer Valley for more than 150 years. SBS attracts dynamic students from more than 12 states and over 12 countries and is known for its powerful academics, debate & public speaking, performing & visual arts, and equestrian programs. SBS was the first girls’ school in New England to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and is the only secondary school in the U.S. to offer the British Horse Society Certification program. SBS’s boarding tuition is now 10% less than the national average while their day tuition is 17% less than the national average. For more information: 413-774-2711; sbschool.org.

FEATURED CLASSES
The Skating Club of Amherst
Amherst, MA

Good News! After a long absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, The Skating Club of Amherst will be resuming their full ice schedule in September. The Skating Club of Amherst figure skating club offers professional instruction at all levels, beginner to advanced, recreational or competitive. Their popular Learn-to-Skate program offers group lessons for ages 4-adult on Sundays at 5:50pm. Additional instruction is offered in free-skate, ice dancing, & testing for those looking to advance their skills further. All sessions are held at the UMass Mullins Center Practice Rink. The club is a member of United States Figure Skating & is a private, non-profit organization managed by volunteers. Registration forms for Sept, Nov, Jan & April are online. For more information: SCofAmherst@gmail.com; 413-253-6388; www.scamherst.org.

FEATURED MIDDLE SCHOOL
Four Winds School
Gill, MA

Four Winds School in Gill, MA, is currently accepting applications for the fall from 5th, 6th, and 7th grade students. The Four Winds curriculum provides a balance between focused training in basic academic skills and the freedom for students to explore their interests. Teacher and student work together to design an individualized academic program based on these evaluations and the student’s learning style. More info: fourwindsschool.info

“Four Winds isn’t a school for exceptional children. It is an exceptional school for children. [We] couldn’t be happier with our experience at Four Winds.” -Lili Dwight, parent

FEATURED PRESCHOOL
Prelude Preschool of the Arts
Springfield, MA

Prelude Preschool of the Arts in Springfield, MA invites your family to participate in FREE preschool fun this summer! Join them for one of their interactive virtual storytimes in July, or come on down to their outdoor events featuring instrument-making and music-playing fun for the whole family. Prelude Preschool is now enrolling children ages 2.9 – 5 years for full-day programming, featuring specialized classes taught by expert musicians and artists in early childhood music, dance, yoga, Suzuki violin, bucket drumming, and visual art. Playful exploration, flexible before and after care, and arts-centered family nights are hallmarks of the Prelude program. Learn more or register for a free summer event at communitymusicschool.com/prelude.

FEATURED MIDDLE SCHOOL
The Center School
Greenfield, MA

At the Center School, they are redefining the middle school experience. Their 6th-8th grade Uppers program fosters a balance of social consciousness and self-awareness in an environment where children are encouraged to be independent and resourceful. Rigorous academic projects, deep critical thinking, rugged outdoor pursuits, a commitment to creativity and curiosity, and an expectation of openness to new ideas are the mainstays of a Center School education. They are currently offering generous, though limited in number, scholarships for newly-admitted middle school students. Learn more about their school, program, and brand new campus opening in Fall 2021 by visiting www.centerschool.net or emailing admissions@centerschool.net.

FEATURED MIDDLE SCHOOL
Four Winds School
Gill, MA

Four Winds School in Gill, MA, is currently accepting applications for the fall from 5th, 6th, and 7th grade students. The Four Winds curriculum provides a balance between focused training in basic academic skills and the freedom for students to explore their interests. Teacher and student work together to design an individualized academic program based on these evaluations and the student’s learning style. More info: fourwindsschool.info

“Four Winds isn’t a school for exceptional children. It is an exceptional school for children. [We] couldn’t be happier with our experience at Four Winds.” -Lili Dwight, parent

FEATURED PRESCHOOL
Prelude Preschool of the Arts
Springfield, MA

Prelude Preschool of the Arts in Springfield, MA invites your family to participate in FREE preschool fun this summer! Join them for one of their interactive virtual storytimes in July, or come on down to their outdoor events featuring instrument-making and music-playing fun for the whole family. Prelude Preschool is now enrolling children ages 2.9 – 5 years for full-day programming, featuring specialized classes taught by expert musicians and artists in early childhood music, dance, yoga, Suzuki violin, bucket drumming, and visual art. Playful exploration, flexible before and after care, and arts-centered family nights are hallmarks of the Prelude program. Learn more or register for a free summer event at communitymusicschool.com/prelude.