Exxon Mobil Chips in for Math and Science Programs

Today is Thursday, Dec. 19. Here are five things to know today in Peabody.

1. Carroll School Principal Tracy Smith has some good news to share. She says thanks to school dad Mr. Randall, who applied for the grant on behalf of the school, the Carroll has received a $500 award from the Exxon Mobil Educational Alliance Program. The nationwide program annually distributes grants to schools in order to enhance their math and science programs.
   
2. Toys for Tots: The Coordinated Family & Community Engagement Center, which serves Peabody, Danvers, Beverly, Topsfield, Middleton and Boxford, says it's partnering with Toys for Tots again this holiday season and will be distributing toys to more than 600 children on Thursday and Friday. The center is currently based out of the McCarthy Elementary School at 76 Lake St. in Peabody, although the distribution location this week will be at the Kiley Administration Building on Johnson Street. For more information about Coordinated Family & Community Engagement, check it out online. 
3. Once the final bell rings on Friday, the Peabody Public Schools will be on vacation until Jan. 2. Have any fun things planned for the break?
4. Cookies for sale: The Peabody Troop 68009 Brownies and Juniors will be over at Shaw's Saturday, starting at 9 a.m. with boxes of Girl Scout cookies for sale.
5. Skate with Santa: Kris Kringle will be at the McVann-O'Keefe Skating Rink Sunday for a special event from 2:10-3:40 p.m. with face-painting, balloons by Brian, a free raffle and prizes.