tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-368385342024-03-07T01:47:07.215-05:00all about bpsFounded in 1647... blogging 360 years later. The first public school district in America, Boston Public Schools proudly serves more than 56,000 pre-k through 12th graders in 125 schools.Lee McGuirehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026917501416263225noreply@blogger.comBlogger565125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-58902812113326487942014-03-07T10:58:00.000-05:002014-03-07T13:16:15.448-05:00A home at the Frederick<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: JA;">Amy Daniels started her
teaching career at the Lilla G. Frederick in 2003. She was fresh out of college
and moved here from Pennsylvania with a degree in health and physical education
with a concentration in sports administration. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-language: JA;">I
recently met with Ms. Daniels to talk about the importance of athletic programs
in public education.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: JA;"> “Sports are an essential
part of life for people of all ages. Ms. Daniels says, “Sports teach our
young people the value of teamwork, cooperation, discipline, and commitment.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In 2003 there weren’t any sports programs
offered at the Frederick. However, in the past 10 years Frederick has built one
of the most successful middle school athletic programs in Massachusetts; there are
currently 12 sports programs at the school. “We have coaches who are consistent,
clear, disciplined. We all work together as an athletic department to help our
student athletes work hard academically, and to instill pride within each and
every student athlete,” says Daniels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: JA;">“What role did athletics
play in your life?” I asked. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She noted
that sports allowed her to achieve dreams she never thought possible. She
struggled academically and came from a troubled household, but playing sports
gave her self-confidence and provided an outlet where she learned how to
overcome her obstacles. “Playing sports gave me something to like about
myself. I was filled with hatred and negativity because of my family
life. It also taught me the importance of time management, commitment,
dedication and pride,” says Daniels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: JA;">She graduated high school
on an athletic scholarship that provided her the financial means to go to
college. “Sports provided me with the foundation I needed to represent myself and
my community in two International Rugby Board World Cup events!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: JA;">Eleven years later she
finds herself still at the Frederick. Being a physical education teacher in Boston
Public Schools has been a great privilege and honor for her. Ms. Daniel
prides herself on the relationships she builds with her students in the
classroom and on the court. “I have often found Boston Public Schools to
possess some of the most profound students.” Her students see her as a
successful international female athlete who has chosen to work in Dorchester.
She is constantly asked why she decided to stay with BPS. Her reply:
“Well, someone has to teach you what you need to know to fill my shoes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: JA;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Amy Daniels never thought that when she walked
into the Frederick building for her interview that it was going to change her
life completely. “I quickly found a place for me underneath this roof that
I proudly say is my home.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-10100241153698144892014-01-13T14:43:00.002-05:002014-01-13T14:43:15.000-05:00The American Lung Association recognizes the Trotter <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The American Lung Association recognized the Trotter Innovation School with the 2013 Asthma-Friendly Schools Initiative Champion Silver Award on Friday, January 11, 2014. The AFSI Champion Awards are given to schools that have taken positive strides to create a healthier learning environment using the strategies outlined in the Asthma-Friendly Schools Initiative.<br />
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Margaret Rocchio, a nurse at the Trotter, was one of the staff members honored. She was featured in our blog spot in 2012. Check it out:<br />
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<a href="http://www.allaboutbps.blogspot.com/2012/06/in-2010-36-of-students-at-trotter.html">http://www.allaboutbps.blogspot.com/2012/06/in-2010-36-of-students-at-trotter.html</a><br />
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<br />Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-15915257636382614262013-11-15T16:51:00.002-05:002013-11-15T16:51:56.330-05:00Hidden Gem: The King<br />
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Boston Public Schools “hidden gems” are schools that go unnoticed or are undiscovered; they may not have the highest test scores or be highly chosen by families, but when you visit the school/community you will notice that they are offering great opportunities for families and changes are happening at the schools. We hope the “The Hidden Gem Series” help families uncover their great talents and attributes.<br />
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This month we are featuring The King K-8 School:<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KialKWU8bJU&feature=youtu.be&edufilter=gOPfCTz7yQCXqTC2XcyI4w">Hidden Gem: The King K-8 School</a>Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-67604884989998407972013-11-14T10:00:00.000-05:002013-11-15T15:27:38.796-05:00Japan's famous mascot visits BPS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While the governor of Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture attended suit-and-tie events here in Boston Wednesday, his wide-eyed and bubbly diplomatic emissary was busy spreading fun at two of the city's public schools.<br />
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The furry Kumamon, already a big hit in his homeland, brought giggles and dance to Taylor Elementary and Boston Latin Academy. His high-energy was infectious inside 4th and 5th grade Advanced Work Classes at Taylor. Kumamon led a do-as-I-do dance and invited the students to pose with him for the accompanying Japanese media, which included the Fuji Television Network, one of the largest networks in Japan.<br />
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The two schools have strong Japanese language programs, and students greeted Kumamon by saying "Ohayougozaimasu," which is Japanese for welcome.<br />
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"This just enhances their whole Japanese program," said Julie Caldarone, the BPS Senior Program Director for World Languages.<br />
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"This brings a piece of Japan into their classroom, opens their eyes to the rest of the world, that's what it's all about…that's what we want," Caldarone said.<br />
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By Brian BallouThelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-86961527860601313912013-11-12T14:37:00.001-05:002013-11-12T15:20:07.985-05:00Madison's Cupcake Queen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Lisa Daniels started her own online business, Queen Cupcake Creations, and she owes much of her success to her learning experience at Madison Park High School. Madison Park is Boston’s only technical/vocational high school. It’s also a fully accredited college preparatory high school offering a selection of academic courses.<br />
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Recently Lisa stopped by Madison Park to visit her former culinary art teacher, Mr. Lucas. While there, she talked to students and encouraged them to never give up on their dreams and to peruse the career that best suits them.<br />
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I asked her to elaborate on Madison’s influence on her career choice and she said, “Madison helped me reach my goals. I was able to do a co-op, which prepared me for my field. My vocational teachers, Mr. Lucas, Mr. B , and Mrs. Lambert taught me a lot and made learning fun for me! Their support encouraged me to further my career goals by attending college."<br />
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After graduating from Madison she attended a culinary college in Pennsylvania and soon after that started her own business. "Business has been great ! I've learned that customer service is very important and one should always be prepared with his/her best!"<br />
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To learn about courses offered visit www.madisonparkhs.org<br />
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You can also check out Lisa Daniels site at http://www.queencupcakecreations.com/Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-67254936932491381802013-11-08T12:30:00.001-05:002013-11-13T09:48:33.048-05:00 Play Me, I'm Yours!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Play Me, I'm Yours was in Boston from September 27th -October 14th. 75 pianos were scattered throughout the city to celebrate the Celebrity Series of Boston. This wonderful event brought communities, friends, and even strangers together. The pianos were painted by local artists and students from the Boston Public Schools (which are featured in the video). The piano locations featured in this video are: Boston Common (artist Arielle Bremby), Old State House (artist from Youth Design), Museum of Fine Arts (artist Hilary Zelson), Copley Square (artist from Huntington Theatre Co. Production Crew), Castle Island (artist from Murphy K-8 School), Esplanade (artist from More Than Words Youth), Faneuil Hall (artist Gina Heeren), and City Hall Plaza (artists Michael Crockett and Frank Casazza).<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0wnDPr_Eao&feature=youtu.be&edufilter=gOPfCTz7yQCXqTC2XcyI4w">PLAY ME I'M YOURS! VIDEO</a><br />
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<br />Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-80322976355004457142013-11-06T16:07:00.001-05:002013-11-06T16:16:40.042-05:00Math made me want to learn English!<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Former
8<sup>th</sup> grade student Tuyet Nguyen scored 280 (perfect score) on the 8<sup>th</sup>
grade Math MCAS last year while a student at the Rogers Middle School. What
makes this especially remarkable is that she was an ELD 1 student (non-English
speaker) when she started last year at the Rogers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Tuyet
Nguyen came to the United States from Vietnam in May 2012. After her arrival
she enrolled at the Rogers Middle School, which was a hard transition for her.
Since she was unable to understand English, making new friends and
understanding class instruction was hard for her. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Math,
however became Tuyet’s favorite subject and class. Her Math teacher, Steve Mook, encouraged her to learn English and not give up. “Mr. Mook </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">was a great
teacher. When I didn't understand something he tried to help me understand his
lessons by connecting it to life. Math made me want to learn English!” says
Tuyet.</span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Tuyet
is currently a 9<sup>th</sup> grader at Excel High in South Boston. “Last year
was both a difficult time and a rewarding time for me. I came to school with no
English; I didn’t even understand my teachers. Soon my English got better and I
was happier and excited to learn,” says Tuyet. She owes much of her success at
Excel to her experience at the Rogers Middle School, particularly Mr. Mook’s
class. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Thanks,
Mr. Mook, for going above and beyond as a teacher!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-28460780623536425992013-10-29T10:44:00.000-04:002013-10-29T10:47:09.115-04:00Hector: " I get to be a cowboy ! "<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6dZBRCPzDUEXVd9qMuDk8kXzHPdrP9DBqg9EvvCNoIzuIU7HRkpZkJvxVBUXhFJYa70iBrZVLnH7Fuh1wWzRhT134Wgr4AOnnlcBbxC8fK9Kt8osOeT_lRVR48FHTCxVJssq0/s1600/IMG_3849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6dZBRCPzDUEXVd9qMuDk8kXzHPdrP9DBqg9EvvCNoIzuIU7HRkpZkJvxVBUXhFJYa70iBrZVLnH7Fuh1wWzRhT134Wgr4AOnnlcBbxC8fK9Kt8osOeT_lRVR48FHTCxVJssq0/s1600/IMG_3849.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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For three years Cerebral Palsy of Massachusetts has been providing therapeutic horseback riding to students at the Josiah Quincy School. Six elementary level students who are physically challenged are taken to the Bridge Center in Bridgewater, MA and get a chance to ride a horse with assistance. This is a 12-week program that serves up to 24 students.<br />
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"The Bridge Center is a fully accessible 20+ acre campus that offers year-round, summer camp, and equine assisted programs designed for children, teens and adults with special needs," says Lauren Havens, Program Director for Therapeutic Recreation at Cerebral Palsy of Massachusetts. The City of Boston provides the buses and the Cerebral Palsy Foundation supports the program at the Bridge Center. <br />
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“This is a great opportunity that helps students increase self-confidence and interest in learning,” adds Mr. Sacco, a teacher volunteer. “ This is a wonderful program and a fantastic opportunity for our amazing children! ”<br />
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Here are some quotes from students who participate in the program:<br />
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Hector: "I love horseback ridding. I get to be a cowboy."<br />
Elvis: "Horseback riding is fun and it is the first time I have been on a farm." <br />
Pedro: "Horseback riding is really good exercise. I usually sleep all the way home."<br />
Casady: "I go really fast on my horse."<br />
Ajamu: " I talk to my horse, Roxy, every week. I miss her when I can't come" <br />
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To learn more about this program visit: <a href="http://www.masscp.org/">www.masscp.org </a><br />
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Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-46697572362361547092013-10-11T12:03:00.001-04:002013-10-11T12:03:32.116-04:00Hidden Gem Series: Mendell School<br />
BPS has great schools and we want you to learn more about them. This month we are kicking off our “Hidden Gem Series.” This series will highlight a school that is doing amazing work. We will give you an inside look at what’s happening in classrooms across the district. You will also hear from principals, teachers, and support staff at the school.<br />
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Our “hidden gem” for this month is the Mendell School located in Roxbury, MA.<br />
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Check it out and let us know what you think.<br />
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If you want to tell us about your school please forward to the Communications office or email tdasilva@boston.k12.ma.us and your school maybe featured next month!<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcbLTr0jl3E&feature=youtu.be&edufilter=gOPfCTz7yQCXqTC2XcyI4w">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcbLTr0jl3E&feature=youtu.be&edufilter=gOPfCTz7yQCXqTC2XcyI4w</a><br />
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<br />Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-66718879237069132472013-10-11T10:46:00.000-04:002013-10-11T10:46:11.576-04:00Success Boston College Month<br />
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October is College Month and cities across the country are helping students prepare for college. In honor of college month, Boston Public Schools and Success Boston has teamed up for Success Boston College Month. Events and resources will be provided to students and parents to aid them through the college process.<br />
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“Our students in Boston are brilliant and talented, and it is our job to make sure they are well positioned for competitive post-secondary scholarships, college and career opportunities,“ says Marsha Inniss-Mitchell – Director of College Readiness Initiatives<br />
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Please take a look at the attached calendar for a list of opportunities and resources:<br />
<a href="http://www.bostonpublicschools.org/files/success_poster_calendar.pdf">http://www.bostonpublicschools.org/files/success_poster_calendar.pdf</a><br />
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Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-70181597707347729192013-09-26T16:25:00.004-04:002013-09-27T13:18:27.198-04:00A 17 year dream at the Manning<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGArnG_HmdXQCsDgNU609xttYIxCMZX8jFcZ7FwnMY29VVy8NcinaccRqqb0QYoRFpN-MhDzo9Rj81AjPx1hLjNfyQuQjw0BSwIPzrhVN3hF-FNBNIQ1fJQCFpHcheqq9Kefa/s1600/SAM_0064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGArnG_HmdXQCsDgNU609xttYIxCMZX8jFcZ7FwnMY29VVy8NcinaccRqqb0QYoRFpN-MhDzo9Rj81AjPx1hLjNfyQuQjw0BSwIPzrhVN3hF-FNBNIQ1fJQCFpHcheqq9Kefa/s400/SAM_0064.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Last week a ribbon cutting was held at the Joseph P. Manning School in Jamaica Plain in celebration of the school’s new walking path. Recently I caught up with Marvin Mitchell, the special education administrator who headed the project, to learn more about the path.<br />
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Mr. Mitchell has been working at the school for 17 years. When he arrived he noticed all the green space available at the Manning. “We have a green campus. You can see deer, turkey and other wildlife in the area,” says Mitchell. “I always wanted to put this space to use.”<br />
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It wasn’t until 2008 that plans were made to create an outdoor space for teaching. Mr. Mitchell sent a proposal to the Boston Schoolyard Initiative requesting funding for the ‘The Manning Walk through the Woods,' which would include areas for writing, science, and music. Ross Miller from the Schoolyard Initiative approved his plan and it was a go. “This project was a 17 year dream of mine and a 5 year goal, ” says Mr. Mitchell lightheartedly. <br />
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Today the Manning Walk through the Woods is a natural outdoor classrooms along a pathway where students can learn in a soothing environment. “The Walk through the Wood is especially helpful for our students with behavioral challenges and emotional impairments who, with an adult, use this natural space to reduce their anxiety. It helps them make responsible decisions.” This project aligns with the school culture that is adamant about incorporating social-emotional curriculum in the classroom. “We believe that social-emotional classes are not just beneficial to students with impairments, but to all students.”<br />
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The staff and students are happy with the finished product and thankful to all those who contributed. It has become a great refuge not only for the students, but also for the teachers and staff as well. “The Manning School has created an exploratory outdoor teaching and learning site that demonstrates and promotes environmental sustainability and we are all grateful," ends Mitchell.<br />
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This project was made possible not only with the help of Boston Schoolyard Initiative and school staff, but with the assistance of volunteers from Boston Cares and graduate students from Wentworth Institute who helped with the design.<br />
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You can view the video of the ribbon cutting here: <u style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri, Verdana, Helvetica, Arial; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://youtu.be/F9xh2R1ixqI">http://youtu.be/F9xh2R1ixqI</a></u><br />
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<!--EndFragment-->Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-25917785346692441852013-06-11T13:27:00.000-04:002013-06-11T14:04:42.804-04:00Mississippi sends their regards to BPS<br />
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The Washington School in Greenville, Mississippi created a Banner for their “America themed middle school dance after the Boston Marathon bombing. After the dance the students sent the banner to BPS middle schools with their regards, prayers and love. <br />
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Mr. Glinner's 5th and 6th grade ELA class at the Eliot K-8 School in the North End responded to The Washington School with “Thank You” cards.<br />
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Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-64394128790023358292013-05-30T13:23:00.002-04:002013-05-30T16:30:05.097-04:00O'Donnell at Sea<style>
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</style> Yesterday on a rainy day the O’Donnell 5th grade class went on a 3-hour oceanography tour of the Boston Harbor with their Science teacher, Chris Leonard. They arrived at University of Massachusetts at 10:30am to set sail on the Columbia Point boat. While on the boat they pulled up some interesting things from the harbor – big crabs, jellies, a lobster, and even a skate (the living kind).<br />
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There were also six staff members from the Earth and Ocean Sciences Dept. at UMass Boston who taught during the 3 hours at sea. “I was so happy to see the excitement and joy on the faces of the students as they picked up a jelly or stuck their hands into the dark muck that we scooped up from the bottom,” said Mr. Leonard. <br />
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I asked Mr. Leonard to tell me why he decided to bring the students to sea and he noted, “It seemed a shame to me that our students live in an area practically surrounded by water but few had ever been out on a boat and most know little about the ocean. So when I saw that Target was giving field trip grants I knew that was the ticket. Because they funded over half the cost, we were able today to give our O’Donnell 5th graders a great send-off to 6th grade. Although we do some good science in class, I think this is what they’ll remember most in their later years.”<br />
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Thanks Mr. Leonard for giving BPS students real life learning experiences!<br />
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To learn more about the opportunities "at sea" you can contact Chris Sweeney, Marine Operations Director, at UMass Boston: chris.sweeney@umb.eduThelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-83437790660616036082013-04-04T15:37:00.001-04:002013-04-05T09:40:36.946-04:00Boston Debate League is a hit with students<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JgI4RMwOt3NnsvgB1ufGKu-_HJ3zvPSnIjRZx3TaEORL0o2Xxxg08NhjapBZGSgj9RTcIsYO8d-J64KURXPRnZI_3asIA9q522yyDuSlOTK-mwXl0yrYzgzIi9GaxAqEuPQZ/s1600/Tournament-9+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JgI4RMwOt3NnsvgB1ufGKu-_HJ3zvPSnIjRZx3TaEORL0o2Xxxg08NhjapBZGSgj9RTcIsYO8d-J64KURXPRnZI_3asIA9q522yyDuSlOTK-mwXl0yrYzgzIi9GaxAqEuPQZ/s320/Tournament-9+(2).jpg" /></a><br />
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The Boston Debate League is a non-profit organization that works in partnership with the Boston Public Schools. The partnership began in 2005, with 25 students and has now expanded to nineteen schools servicing 600 kids.
Steve Stein, Executive Director of Boston Debate League has been with the program for 5 years. He worked as a BPS high school teacher before heading the Boston Debate League in 2008. “The Debate League has greatly impacted our students,” he says. “They are more engaged in the classroom, especially our Black and Latino males.” He noted that males who join the debate league are 70% more likely to graduate. “Students are excited about the league. Debating harnesses energy that they have, especially in young boys,” says Mr. Stein.<br />
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Four BPS students, Henry Chaves and Michael John from Boston Latin Academy, and Ted White and Darien Amado from New Mission High School, will compete at the national tournament this April. They will represent all of New England and Boston amongst the other 19 Urban Debate Leagues from across the nation. This is the second year that Boston has qualified for the National Publics Debate in Washington D.C.<br />
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I recently spoke with senior Darien Amado about his experience with the Debate League. “Being part of this team has allowed me to articulate my thoughts and has allowed me to become a better writer,” says Amado. “How do you prep for a tournament?” I asked him. “Typically my partner and I would prep by listening to music—it gets me pumped up,” he says with a smile. “I always try to think of what the other argument could be. I also use my study notes from my last competition to see where my strengths and weakness were.”
“This is your senior year. What is the next step-college?” I asked. “I definitely will be attending college,” said Amado. “It actually helped influence my decision about college. At first I wanted to be a football player, but now I think I want to be a sports broadcast commentator.”<br />
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The Debate League hopes to expand to even more schools. “We want students to understand how to express themselves,” says Mr. Stein. “By providing students the opportunity to be a part of this rigorous program, we are helping to develop a culture of critical thinkers!” To learn more about the Boston Debate League check out: <a href="http://www.bostondebate.org/">http://www.bostondebate.org</a><br />
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<br />Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-7808713498437311402013-02-13T14:38:00.000-05:002013-02-13T17:40:56.904-05:00Charleston High promotes authentic learning<br />
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On February 2 I sat in on a workshop held at Charleston High, which featured breakdancing, poetry readings, singing, and West African drumming. This was part of a weeklong workshop known as “Art of Agency.” Charlestown High School headmaster William Thomas noted as he watched students perform their spoken word poetry, “This is exactly the kind of thing that makes a school great.”<br />
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The workshops developed after surveying students, which determined that classes needed to be more energetic and relevant to issues concerning them. The weeklong workshops replace regular academic classes and allow students to attend various art sessions. Students in Diploma Plus begin and end each day by gathering in “talking circles,” which is a time of reflection for the students. “So what did you learn?” asks Director of Diploma Plus Sunny Pai. “How did today make you a stronger student?<br />
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“Art for Agency” is one of three workshops held at the school. The first workshop, ”A Third Eye Opening: A Conference on Race, Gender, and Sexual Orientation,” took place in October with topics of discussion including ethnic identity, gender, bullying, and homophobia. The workshops are led by Sung-Joon Pai, Director of Diploma Plus SLC, with funding from Nellie Mae Education Foundation. Diploma Plus is a program that started at Charlestown High in 2009, which re-engages students who are 16 yrs. or older and 2 years over grade level with few credits.<br />
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I asked junior Brianna Boyd for her thoughts on the weeklong workshop and she said, “It’s been an incredible week. We don’t get to do this often and it’s nice to see art in many forms. Senior Paul Homes chimed in, “This is my third year in DP, and it’s great to see an organized event at the school. I’m into art and it inspires me to see something like this. It’s also cool to see your peers share a piece of themselves with you.” I asked Mr. Pai for his thoughts on the workshop and he responded, “This is what schools should be like all the time--engaging students and communities, while also inspiring them. This is authentic learning that we need!”<br />
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A third workshop will be held in April. If you would like to learn more about Diploma Plus check out: <a href="http://www.diplomaplus.net/">http://www.diplomaplus.net</a>Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-69239465501149540932013-02-05T12:13:00.004-05:002013-02-05T12:13:32.449-05:00Michele Brooks <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0HrjDJWgGoptxXj2xyT7EZTdKXPY6JBUftT3Bd1wqOOfTouiZNlDuZeCQxmjVy7GrsRhwDCm8ww2psEGKhKRT6hyTJnJ06z6WSB2xb_fFIONnOsWDtEy9uxjGcwYPL2JVRnKY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-02-05+at+12.12.24+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0HrjDJWgGoptxXj2xyT7EZTdKXPY6JBUftT3Bd1wqOOfTouiZNlDuZeCQxmjVy7GrsRhwDCm8ww2psEGKhKRT6hyTJnJ06z6WSB2xb_fFIONnOsWDtEy9uxjGcwYPL2JVRnKY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-02-05+at+12.12.24+PM.png" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">Boston Parent Turns Frustration into 'Engagement Power':</span><br />
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<a href="http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/parentsandthepublic/2013/02/boston_parent_turns_frustration_into_engagement_power.html"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">//blogs.edweek.org/edweek/</span><wbr style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"></wbr><span class="word_break" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline-block; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">parentsandthepublic/2013/02/</span><wbr style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"></wbr><span class="word_break" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline-block; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">boston_parent_turns_frustration</span><wbr style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"></wbr><span class="word_break" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline-block; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">_into_engagement_power.html</span></a>Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-39795872719679904912013-01-24T16:05:00.003-05:002013-01-24T16:05:31.430-05:00Boston Green Academy goes to D.C<br />
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30 Boston Green Academy students and staff members made an overnight bus trip to D.C for the inauguration of President Barack Obama. Six of the students were interviewed for a feature on NPR's Here & Now! Listen here" <a href="http://hereandnow.wbur.org/2013/01/21/students-obama-inauguration">http://hereandnow.wbur.org/2013/01/21/students-obama-inauguration</a>Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-33422197294238379532013-01-03T16:45:00.000-05:002013-01-04T14:23:54.271-05:00The Murphy Family<style>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I visited the Murphy
school as they were prepping for the holidays. As I walked into the building I
was warmly welcomed by a staff member and then directed to the principal ‘s
office. As I sat on the bench waiting for principal Karen Cahill, I watched as many
parent volunteers were packaging coffee cakes that were ordered by BPS Families
– with all profits benefitting the school.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Ms. Cahill is ready to
see you,” said Caroline Cahill (no relation), a staff assistant at the school. While
I gathered my things and started to walk towards her office, a mom with two of
her kids was walking out the door with smiles and wishing everyone a happy
holiday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Hi, Thelma,” said Ms.
Cahill. “Thanks for visiting our school. Have a seat.” As I sat down she offered
me water and chocolate. I asked her about some of the great things happening at
the Murphy. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ms. Cahill started by saying
that the Murphy has a strong sense of community. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We all really enjoy working together, and we
are very much like a family.” I noticed a cute holiday card on the desk written
by a student for Ms. Cahill. It read: </span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">A Poem For You </span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">You keep me safe</span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">You love me like no other</span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Are you sure you are not related to my mother?</span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">You are very pretty </span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">And wicked smart too...</span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">When I get older</span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">I am gonna marry you.</span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">But for now I am little</span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">That much is true</span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">But my very big heart</span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Sure does love you !</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“This card is from a
student that attends the school. They were the ones meeting with me before you
came,” noted Ms. Cahill.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ms. Cahill then told me a
story of how people at the school came together in time of need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>George Daukantas is a paraprofessional who
has been </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">working at the Murphy for 14 years. <span style="color: black;">“George is part of the Murphy family. We value
all that he does for the school and students. He has a great work ethic and
loves being a valued member of the community,” said Ms. Cahill.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">When staff members heard that George lost his
sister (his only living family member) and could not afford to ship her body or
bury her in Massachusetts, they were there to lend a helping hand. Staff
members <span style="color: black;">Susan Faherty, Anne Cuddy, Caroline Cahill,
Janice Tkacik, and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Christine Feeney i</span>nitiated
a donation fund to help George. George was able to give his sister a proper
burial service. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I asked if I could meet George and the staff members who had
helped him. Principal Cahill called them all into the office and said, “I just
told Thelma how the staff at the school helped you and she asked to meet you
and the staff.” George turned towards me and said, “Yes, I can tell people in
Washington or New York how much they have helped my sister and me. I am deeply
grateful.”</span><span style="font-family: Times; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I then asked George if it was okay to take a picture of him
and the staff, “Yes, I would like to be between the Cahills,” said George with
a smile. Everyone started to laugh. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When I finally left the principal’s office, I noticed that
I, too, was walking out with a smile. I was touched by the generosity and great
hospitality at the school. </span></div>
Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-46061832097468556872012-12-20T12:27:00.001-05:002012-12-20T12:47:05.668-05:00St. Paul makes a connection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For 14 years, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church of Lynnfield, MA has helped to make memorable Christmases for many BPS families. Ms. Jonna Casey, Director of Special Education at the Murphy Satellite, has been a longtime member of the congregation. When she first informed the church of the need of some of her students, the congregation went above and beyond to help the school. Their contributions have continued since. Today hundreds of toys, clothes, and other gifts have been delivered to BPS Families. It started with a handful of students and now there are 93 families that benefit from the generosity of St. Paul. <br />
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A student who was a recipient of the many gifts donated to the families was sitting on a bench in the school’s office. Ms. Casey approached the little girl and asked her whom she was waiting for, and she said, “Ms. Casey.” “ Well, I’m Ms. Casey. How can I help you?” “Ms. Casey, I wanted to thank you for the best Christmas I’ve ever had!”<br />
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“It is awesome to see communities making connections with other communities,” says Ms. Casey. “I am grateful for St. Paul’s kindness, but there are many others like them who are willing to help when they know there is a need. We have good, kind-hearted people!“Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-40296517964915418762012-12-07T11:31:00.002-05:002012-12-07T13:03:31.244-05:00Ruth has faith<br />
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Ruth Wong, Community Liaison for Boston Public Schools' Office of Community Engagement and Circle of Promise, is helping to create partnerships with faith-based organizations. Ruth started with the BPS in July due to a partnership between the Emmanuel Gospel Center and the Boston Public Schools. Currently there are more than 30 schools that partner with faith-based organizations and Ruth looks to expand the partnerships to other schools.<br />
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Recently, one of the partners, Roxbury Presbyterian Church, was honored by the White House as a school improvement champion for the Dearborn. “Faith communities have an extraordinary ability to help educate our children,” said White House Executive Director for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, Rev. Joshua DuBois. “Together, these schools, these programs can help take the country where it needs to go!”<br />
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Faith-based partnerships have greatly benefited BPS families. Roxbury Presbyterian Church’s partnership with Dearborn Middle School is helping the school to expand to a 6-12 Early College STEM Academy. One of the students who participates in an after-school program provided by the church says, "Before Saturday School I didn't know how to divide. Now I totally get it!" Another partner, City Mission Society in partnership with Citizens Bank gave away about 400 coats to the Russell School families.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_9g0rDFrJUfRxTMxskwcjXVoO7CUUxfOcPDbRQpbZVR67K50PFTnhVZ_7280ALiTvs4n7bcL9bAEotMkg-dCXrxDL95W37d_Q8AatHVJG0Boo7Q-7ZiMFxDiCnXpPV9z4GXt/s1600/DEARBORNROXPRESl4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_9g0rDFrJUfRxTMxskwcjXVoO7CUUxfOcPDbRQpbZVR67K50PFTnhVZ_7280ALiTvs4n7bcL9bAEotMkg-dCXrxDL95W37d_Q8AatHVJG0Boo7Q-7ZiMFxDiCnXpPV9z4GXt/s1600/DEARBORNROXPRESl4.jpg" height="225" width="320" /></a>I asked Ruth what are the goals for the coming year and she said, “ The faith communities in greater Boston are resources and community assets who are eager to support and partner with our schools. My goal is to help align more faith-based and community-based partners who can help students, families and schools thrive. With the help of faith-based organizations, I am confident that we will be able to contribute to increased student achievement and family engagement in our schools.”<br />
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To learn more about faith-based organizations you can contact Ruth Wong, rwong@egc.org<br />
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Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-67092250110295951072012-12-06T14:13:00.000-05:002012-12-06T15:21:02.923-05:00We are Boston!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The 2012 We Are Boston Gala, a celebration that recognizes immigrants from diverse backgrounds that have contributed greatly to the city of Boston, recognized two BPS students with the School and Youth Action Award: Boston International student, Sherley Belizaire and Charlestown student, Yi Ming Yu.<br />
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This award is given to those that have made significant contributions to his/her community, while demonstrating and promoting cultural pride.<br />
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Congratulations!<br />
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To learn more about the We Are Boston Gala: www.cityofboston.gov/weareboston/<br />
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<br />Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-91985724961520280202012-11-16T16:09:00.002-05:002012-11-16T16:35:39.103-05:00Master Hans focuses on children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Recently I visited the Higginson/Lewis and the King, two K-8 schools that have added tae kwon do to their curriculum. As I enter the gymnasium, third graders run for their uniform and once dressed form a line. Master Hans then request silence and ask them to take position. The class then begins with segments of jumping jacks and tae kwon do forms. Master Hans has been teaching tae kwon do for more than 3 years as part of a funded program provided by the U.S. Tae Kwon Do Education Foundation (U.S.T.E.F.).<br />
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After one of the sessions at the schools, I asked Mr. Hans, how the program started at the school. He responded, “Mr. Tito Jackson referred us to the Higginson/Lewis, which was our first school in Boston area. Then, through principal Ms. Oliver's recommendations, we were able to teach in two other schools, the McKinley and the King.” The students take part in a 10 week session and then a graduation ceremony takes places where they are presented their yellow belts.<br />
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Last night I attended the graduation ceremony that took place at the Madison Park High School gymnasium. Many parents were in attendance to watch their children demonstrate all that they learned in the program. Master Hans made sure to get the parents involved in the ceremony. Some were asked to stand by their children and do some of the routines with them, and while the children shouted “Yes Sir” after each move, he asked parents to cheer.<br />
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Ms. Lena Reddick, Director of Partnership and Community, said “[in her role] I am always looking for alternative ways to get parents involved-not just socially, but academically- and tonight’s program demonstrate how tae kwon has been able to do that-not only tonight, but in the classroom.” Mr. Hans affirms that by saying, “Positive thinking, good focus, and good attitude is what I strive for in the class sessions. We want all the students to get general benefits through tae kwon do and to incorporate this not only in school, but also at home.” <br />
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Master Hans looks forward to expanding the program to other schools and hopes to get more families involved. For those who want to learn more about the program visit:<a href="http://www.ustef.org/xe/">http://www.ustef.org/xe/</a><br />
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<br />Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-32815729049109288482012-11-06T16:21:00.000-05:002012-11-06T16:27:04.252-05:00Dever-McCormack votes early!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Mock voting took place today at the Dever/McCormack, with all of the students participating.
Neema Avashia, the 8th grade civics teacher, thought it would be a great way to get students involved and informed. The civics department has a curriculum on voting. Thus, students have been learning the history of voting and also about the candidates.
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When I asked Ms. Avashia what she hopes to accomplish with this mock voting, she said, “I want kids to be more informed and engaged from an early age. The students have been super excited about this process, and its awesome! It is evident that the students are making their own decisions and taking the time to learn about all the candidates. “We even had some vote for green party candidates and libertarian candidates!” says Ms. Avashia.
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All students that participated received free iTune download for up to 30 songs.
A big thumbs up for the Dever-McCrmMack for voting early!Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-86880984356086747292012-11-01T15:26:00.002-04:002012-11-01T17:20:24.934-04:00Winship science<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeuvxEAojLC20-txwVeFNRk5D7nOSJkzJ8mvtrDCrGT4dQ7AEjsEXAXdHieQNcatKLE-mPBdKk4JYXbYqK9WkGyx1GQ6Du5tO3-tyBX9QEsPLVw525_TgWAvxna-sZnlUVvit6/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeuvxEAojLC20-txwVeFNRk5D7nOSJkzJ8mvtrDCrGT4dQ7AEjsEXAXdHieQNcatKLE-mPBdKk4JYXbYqK9WkGyx1GQ6Du5tO3-tyBX9QEsPLVw525_TgWAvxna-sZnlUVvit6/s200/DSC_0012.JPG" width="200" /></a>
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Last year students from the Winship School were introduced to their outdoor classroom. Since then, it has become an integral part of the school. Science teachers have started to utilize the space more, and a solid outdoor curriculum is in place.<br />
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During a recent visit to the school, I found Ms. Walker’s kindergarten class outside learning about leaves. “What color is the leaf?” she asks, and hands are raised. She then instructs the students to look and see what other colored leaves they can find in the area. All the children run to get the task done.<br />
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The students are not only learning about life cycle of trees, but also about decomposition. There is a leaf cage in the outdoor classroom, in which raked leaves are placed. The students watch as they decompose overtime into compost and soil to feed the plants.<br />
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The outdoor classroom includes meadowlands and a vegetable garden. Parents and staff help tend the garden throughout the year. This past Saturday, students planted lots of bulbs, as parents raked, picked up trash, and built new raised beds for planting. “There is a high level of collaboration between teachers and families," says principal Louise Kulman. " Working in teams is a hallmark of instruction in this school! ”
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Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36838534.post-76536101491323034562012-10-26T14:11:00.000-04:002012-10-26T14:16:45.060-04:00Unity at the Hennigan!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5xb6yAvBYh3k0QEIDqnrGdNP_iXA0QxylNtJzGbW9hBoaROK0uKLM0w89NOOg8PKVCJpTdgajmNWb-nIG0rkHMakmPg54hkKtWltB1_agcSDJDicg7fwZeXnaXsx0-O2jsE1/s1600/Janet%2527s+Pic+280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5xb6yAvBYh3k0QEIDqnrGdNP_iXA0QxylNtJzGbW9hBoaROK0uKLM0w89NOOg8PKVCJpTdgajmNWb-nIG0rkHMakmPg54hkKtWltB1_agcSDJDicg7fwZeXnaXsx0-O2jsE1/s200/Janet%2527s+Pic+280.jpg" /></a> Great things are happening at the Hennigan under the leadership of Maria Cordon.
The school has adapted a whole school approach, which means support services are provided to students for their emotional, academic, and social needs.<br />
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The Hennigan responds to the cultural needs of its Somalian students, who make up 200 of the 600 students at the school. In order to meet their cultural needs, the school teams up with ACEDONE ( African Community Economic Development of New England), an organization that provides extra services and programs to families. "Parents are responding very well to this partnership," says Ms. Cordon.<br />
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A grant from Target, which has been in place for two years, allows the school to host a monthly food bank. Parents can receive up to thirty-five pounds of food. Over 200 parents utilize this service, which is coordinated by Janet Iraola, The Family Outreach Coordinator. "The School's pantry has been a tremendous resource for our families at the Hennigan. With the cost of food rising everyday the food pantry makes healthy food available to our families on a monthly basis," says Ms. Iraola.<br />
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The school is always looking for ways to work more closely with families and the community. For example, Monthly Family Fridays invites families to come to the school and have coffee with the principal and discuss the expectations for the school and the principal addresses any concerns and questions parents may have. Parents also visit classrooms and learn teaching strategies to use with their child at home. Ms. Iraola says,"The focus of Family Fridays is to build relationships between home and school."<br />
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These small steps taken by the Hennigan earns them the title “ A Unity School.”
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Thelma DaSilvahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04805205816477640822noreply@blogger.com0