Registration for School Year 2010-2011 begins January 4

Boston Public Schools announces the start of the registration process for the 2010-2011 school year. The first round of registration runs from January 4 – February 5, 2010 and is open to students entering Kindergarten, Grade 6 or Grade 9. Parents/guardians of new-to-BPS students must visit one of BPS Family Resource Centers (FRC) to register their child(ren) for school. To save time, parents may begin the process online using the district’s pre-registration site, BPSExpress; however, the registration process must be completed in person at an FRC. The FRCs have extended hours during the next four weeks of registration, including new Saturday hours at the East Zone FRC.

Tynan School rallies to support 3-year-old cancer patient

The staff and students at the Tynan Elementary School in South Boston are learning about giving to others this holiday season in a very special way. The school community is rallying in support of three-year-old Charlotte Kelly, daughter of Patrice Kelly (pictured here), who teaches at the school. More than 15 Tynan teachers visited Children’s Hospital to volunteer as blood donors to help Charlotte in her fight against cancer. See coverage on WBZ-TV and in the Boston Globe.

Russell Ferguson wins "So You Think You Can Dance"

Russell Ferguson of Roxbury, a 2007 graduate of the Boston Arts Academy, was named America’s favorite dancer last night as winner of Season 6 of Fox TV's "So You Think You Can Dance." He wins a cash prize of $250,000 and a cover feature in the March issue of Dance Spirit Magazine. Russell's alma mater celebrated the BAA alumnus' victory with a special tribute today at the annual Winterfest Jazz Concert at the Berklee Performance Center, featuring student performances and a special appearance by members of the Krump Club. Congratulations, Russell and BAA!

BPS high schools among US News & World Report best

In its third annual ranking of the 100 Best High Schools in America, U.S. News & World Report magazine has again recognized Boston Latin School (BLS) as one of the best in the country. The study, which examines a variety of factors about a school’s performance and ability to prepare students for college, ranks BLS 38th out of more than 21,700 high schools nationwide. Seven other BPS high schools earned silver and bronze medals as well.

Boston students score high in math on "The Nation's Report Card"

Results released today show Boston Public Schools 4th and 8th grade students outperforming their urban peers in mathematics on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as "The Nation's Report Card." Education officials held a national news conference today in Washington, D.C., to present results from 18 city school districts across the country. Boston scored better than almost every other city. Pictured here, a 4th grade student at the Orchard Gardens K-8 Pilot School solves a math problem.

Documentary filmmakers visit the Quincy Elementary

Ken Eng (left) and Alex Shear, director and producer of the PBS documentary Kokoyakyu about high school baseball in Japan, recently visited the Quincy Elementary School in Chinatown. The filmmakers are alumni of the Quincy and Boston Latin School.

NNN features new middle school football league

Neighborhood Network News reports on the new Play Ball! Middle School Football League:

Football Gains Ground in Middle Schools from Chris Lovett on Vimeo.

MIAA honors Boston athletes for sportsmanship

Odyssey High School senior Lorina Gjino (left), who plays on the South Boston Education Complex volleyball and softball teams, and Odyssey sophomore Gabriela Cruzado (right), who plays on the football and basketball teams, met former New England Patriots linebacker and Pro Football Hall of Fame member Andre Tippett at the 16th annual Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) Sportsmanship Summit at Gillette Stadium. Odyssey High School was one of 24 Boston Public Schools to make the 2008-09 MIAA Sportsmanship Honor Roll for not having had any student-athletes or coaches disqualified or suspended from an athletic contest during the 2008-2009 school year.

Superintendent presents five-year BPS transformation plan

Superintendent Carol Johnson presented to the Boston School Committee tonight the Acceleration Agenda, a five-year strategic direction for the transformation of the Boston Public Schools. The plan includes goals, academic targets, and four key strategies to ensure the success of all schools and students. Dr. Johnson also named 14 "turnaround schools" identified for targeted interventions and supports. See coverage in the Globe, Herald, and on NECN:

Wednesday is Education Support Professionals Day

Tomorrow -- Wednesday, November 18 -- is an opportunity for schools across the country to pay tribute to the secretaries, cafeteria workers, custodians, bus drivers, and other support staff. As part of National Education Week, celebrate Education Support Professionals Day by thanking the men and women who keep our schools running well so that teachers can teach and students can learn!

Task force to address ELL achievement gaps

The Boston School Committee has launched a Task Force on English Language Learners to improve achievement among students whose first language is not English.

Actuaries invest in the future of Boston

The Society of Actuaries recently held its annual conference in Boston. Prior to the national meeting, the organization donated $25,000 to the Boston Public Schools to support math instruction. The Actuarial Foundation also donated financial literacy packets to Boston Latin Academy as well as flash drives for students. Pictured here, Rev. Gregory G. Groover, Sr. (left), Chair of the Boston School Committee, accepts a check from Cecil Bykerk, FSA, President of the Society of Actuaries.

Congratulations, retirees!

Last night, the Boston School Committee paid tribute to principals and district leaders who retired recently from the Boston Public Schools. Pictured here are some of the retirees who attended a reception prior to the School Committee meeting. Left to right: front row, Dr. Carol R. Johnson, Superintendent; Grace Madsen, Adams Elementary School; Joanne Collins-Russell, Jackson-Mann K-8 School; Mary Russo, Murphy K-8 School; Suzanne Lee, Quincy Elementary School; back row, Michael O’Neill, School Committee member; Antonio Barbosa, Winship Elementary School; Emily Shamieh, Winthrop Elementary School; Carlos Gibb, Ellis Elementary School; Nancy Zamierowski, Assistant Superintendent; William Henderson, O’Hearn Elementary School; Michele O’Connell, Holland Elementary School; Catherine James, Bates Elementary School; and Rev. Gregory G. Groover, Sr., School Committee Chair.

First day of school at Parent University

Approximately 300 Boston Public Schools parents gathered at the University of Massachusetts Boston today for the first session of BPS Parent University, a new year-long program to help parents and caregivers support their children's education. The program is mentioned in a Time magazine story about parent academies across the country. See coverage in the Boston Globe, on Channel 5, and on New England Cable News:

BPS-TV Video: Showcase of Schools

Rain didn't stop families from attending the citywide Showcase of Schools, with every BPS school represented with colorful displays and energetic staff eager to describe what makes their school unique. Visit the photo album and watch a video from BPS-TV:

New growth model highlights students' MCAS gains

For the first time yesterday, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education reported student and school MCAS progress using a "growth model." Instead of comparing how different groups of students perform on the same test (e.g., 2009 4th graders vs. 2008 4th graders), the growth model follows the same students' progress from one year to the next. Today's Boston Globe highlights the O'Donnell Elementary School in East Boston showing tremendous student gains under the new model.

$2.4m federal grant to expand Advanced Placement in BPS

City and school officials today announced continued expansion of Advanced Placement (AP) offerings in the Boston Public Schools, thanks in part to a new $2.4 million federal grant. Superintendent Johnson's "Acceleration Agenda" includes strategies for more students completing AP, Honors and dual enrollment courses in order to be prepared for success in college.

BAA graduate to compete on "So You Think You Can Dance"

Russell Ferguson, a 2007 graduate of the Boston Arts Academy (BAA), is one of the Top 20 finalists on Fox TV’s “So You Think You Can Dance.” Russell came to BAA with no formal dance training. During his four years at the school, he studied Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Tap, African, Repertory, Choreography, and Dance History, in addition to the school’s rigorous college preparatory academic curriculum. Russell is now a sophomore at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. Watch his audition video. Tune in Tuesday at 8:00 to cast your vote!

BCLA wins "School on the Move" Prize!

EdVestors has presented the 4th annual $100,000 Thomas W. Payzant "School on the Move" Prize to Boston Community Leadership Academy. BCLA was one of three finalists, along with the Warren-Prescott K-8 School and Young Achievers Science & Math Pilot K-8 School, recognized for significant school improvement.

Read about past winners:

2008: Samuel Mason Pilot Elementary School

2007: Excel High School

2006: Sarah Greenwood K-8 School

BCLA is also one of several Boston public high schools featured in a Boston Globe guest column today about WriteBoston's Teens In Print program.

Left to right: Mayor Thomas M. Menino, EdVestors Executive Director Laura Perille, BCLA Headmaster Nicole Bahnam, Superintendent Carol R. Johnson and Former Superintendent Thomas W. Payzant.

MASC presents Tip O'Neill Award to Mayor Menino

The Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) today announced that Mayor Thomas M. Menino is the 2009 winner of the Tip O'Neill Award for leadership in public education.

Target transforms Mather Elementary School library

The Mather Elementary School has a brand new school library -- complete with new furniture, books, computers and more -- thanks to an extreme makeover from Target and the Heart of America Foundation. Watch the video from BPS-TV:

New school choice options for BPS families

It's time to start choosing schools! October marks the start of a series of opportunities for families to learn more about educational options in the Boston Public Schools, including exciting new programs throughout the city. School choice activities include:

• Citywide Showcase of Schools, October 24;
• School Preview Time, November 2 - January 22;
• Four Family Information Sessions; and
• Registration for the 2010-11 school year begins in January.

So come discover all that BPS has to offer your family!

New middle school football league is underway

Student-athletes from the Gavin and Irving middle schools faced off yesterday in the first game of the "Play Ball! Football" program, the district's new middle school football league. Along with teams from the Rogers and Edwards middle schools, the boys will play nine regular season games leading up to the playoffs and championship game on Thanksgiving Day. Pictured here, Gavin 7th grader Larry Andrade runs the ball for the first touchdown of the season. Irving went on to win the game at White Stadium, 30-22. See coverage in the Boston Globe.

Roosevelt earns gold rating from U.S. Green Building Council

Mayor Menino visited the new annex of the Roosevelt K-8 School in Hyde Park today to announce a $100,000 award from the U.S. Green Building Council to build more green schools. The addition to the Roosevelt building includes a green roof and other environmentally friendly features that earned the project a gold rating for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).

Parents: get involved!

There are two great opportunities coming up for Boston Public Schools parents to have a greater voice in their children's education...

Superintendent Johnson has launched a national search to hire the Assistant Superintendent for Special Education Services. On Monday night (October 19) at English High School, families of students with disabilities are invited to a parent forum to share their views about the qualities needed in the next special education leader. Parents who are unable to attend the forum may complete an on-line survey.

Registration is underway for the new Parent University. The first session will take place on Saturday, October 31, at UMass Boston.

Two BPS employees earn Shattuck Awards

The Boston Municipal Research Bureau tonight will award Henry L. Shattuck Public Service Awards to eight City of Boston employees, including two Boston Public Schools staff. Among the winners are Mary O'Brien, a second grade teacher at the Agassiz Elementary School (right), and Kevin Moriarty, custodian at the Blackstone Elementary School. See coverage in the Boston Globe and Herald.

October is College Month!

October is College Month in the Boston Public Schools. Throughout the month, schools will host activities and events for students of all ages to begin preparing for higher education. High school students will participate in college fairs and other opportunities to learn about college readiness, admission, financial aid and more. The district's "Next Stop, College" campaign is designed to keep students engaged in college planning throughout the year, and Mayor Menino's Success Boston initiative helps ensure that BPS graduates earn a college degree.

Atlanta newscast highlights Nathan Hale success

WSB-TV in Atlanta recently produced a series of reports about the challenges in Georgia's public schools, which included a segment about Massachusetts as a state making more significant progress. The story featured Boston's Nathan Hale Elementary School as an example of a successful turnaround school, including an interview with principal Sandra Mitchell-Woods. Watch the video of part 6 of the series (the segment about Massachusetts begins at 30:42).

Local media profile Boston principals

Several BPS principals have shone in the media spotlight recently, as local newspapers have profiled these hard-working school leaders in back-to-school stories. They include:

* Kelly Hung (pictured here), Bates Elementary School, Boston Globe;

* Louise Kuhlman, Winship Elementary School, Allston-Brighton Tab;

* Eileen Nash, Beethoven and Ohrenberger Schools, West Roxbury Bulletin;

* Arthur Unobskey, Irving Middle School, Roslindale Transcript; and

* Alexandra Montes McNeil, Umana Middle School Academy, East Boston Times (no online story).

Linda Nathan's new book highlights Boston Arts Academy

Beacon Press tomorrow will release a new book written by Linda Nathan, founding Headmaster of the Boston Arts Academy. The Hardest Questions Aren't on the Test: Lessons from an Innovative Urban School describes the approaches that have led to the success of the city's pilot high school for the visual and performing arts. Royalties from sales of the book will benefit the school.

Everett Elementary honors the memory of Kathleen Flannery

The school grounds of the Edward Everett Elementary School in Dorchester was a sea of purple this morning - the favorite color of former principal Kathleen Flannery. Ms. Flannery died shortly before her scheduled retirement in 2006, and today, the school community honored her legacy with the dedication of the Kathleen S. Flannery Memorial Fence. Mayor Thomas M. Menino, Councilor Maureen Feeney, and Superintendent Carol Johnson joined students, staff, families and community supporters for a ceremony today celebrating the new fence and outdoor classroom.

Edwards Middle School earns national media attention

The extended day program at the Edwards Middle School was featured in newspapers all across the country this weekend. An Associated Press story about President Obama's call for a longer school day and year featured student Domonique Toombs describing the benefits of the extended day at the Edwards. The story appeared in the Washington Post, the Boston Globe, and dozens of other media outlets.

MassArt helps build new Carter School bus shelter

Graduate architecture students from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design donated their time and expertise this summer to help a special group of BPS students. Last week, City and school officials joined families and staff to dedicate an artistic new bus shelter, designed to protect students at the Carter School when boarding wheelchair buses during inclement weather. See coverage in the Globe, Herald, and South End News.

Two more schools earn NAEYC accreditation

The Warren/Prescott K-8 School in Charlestown and the F. Lyman Winship Elementary School in Brighton recently earned accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Six BPS schools now have earned NAEYC accreditation, widely seen as the mark of quality in early childhood education.

Apply to serve on the Boston School Committee

Mayor Menino is seeking nominations for Boston residents to serve on the Boston School Committee. The application deadline is November 12. UPDATE: Deadline extended to Monday, November 30, 1:00 p.m.

BPS launches Management Institute

In partnership with the District Management Council, BPS has launched the Management Institute to provide professional development and establish performance goals for senior and mid-level operations and finance managers.

AWC and exam school eligibility tests coming up

Boston families are invited to apply for Advanced Work Class (AWC) and the city's three exam schools.

Get involved in decision-making at your child's school...

The BPS Office of Family & Student Engagement is hosting two training sessions next week (Tuesday and Thursday) to help parents and staff learn more about elections for School Site Council and School Parent Council Executive Committee.

Superintendent celebrates MCAS gains at the Eliot

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education released school and district MCAS scores today, as well as Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and No Child Left Behind (NCLB) accountability results. The Eliot K-8 School in the North End was one of only three schools in the Commonwealth to move from "restructuring" into good standing, thanks to two years of significant gains in English and Math performance. Pictured here, Superintendent Carol Johnson (right) surprised principal Traci Walker Griffith (left), students and staff at the school with a delivery of balloons to celebrate the achievement. Visit the BPS website for additional information about Boston's MCAS and AYP results.

Jamboree kicks off another exciting school year

BPS students and their families packed City Hall Plaza on Saturday, September 5 for the second annual Back-to-School Jamboree. Guests enjoyed performances, refreshments, resources, gifts and prizes to help get the school year off to a fun start. Watch the slide show and video below.

Boston schools are ready to reopen!

Boston Public Schools teachers reported to school today to prepare their classrooms for the return of students on Thursday (grades 1-12) and Monday (kindergarten). Today, Mayor Menino joined BPS officials for a back-to-school news conference at the new middle school campus of the expanded TechBoston Academy in Dorchester.

Watch Superintendent Johnson's back-to-school video message to BPS staff:

Superintendent Johnson on Fox 25 morning news

Kim Carrigan interviewed BPS Superintendent Carol Johnson on Fox 25 morning news today about preparations for the start of the school year.

200 students earn diplomas in summer graduation ceremony

The graduating class of 2009 grew last week, when 200 more students earned diplomas at a special summer commencement ceremony at White Stadium. The students, from 24 Boston public high schools, completed their high school requirements through credit recovery and other programs during the summer months. Surrounded by their families, friends, teachers, Headmasters and other City and school officials, the graduates proudly accepted diplomas in cap and gown. Pictured here (left to right) are student speaker Jonathan Rodrigues, a graduate of Brook Farm Business and Service Career Academy, parent Bertha Frazier, Mayor Thomas M. Menino, and Boston School Committee member Alfreda Harris.

Ready for Kindergarten!

Mayor Menino, the Boston School Committee, Superintendent Johnson and partner organizations recently hosted the 10th annual "Countdown to Kindergarten" celebration at the Children's Museum. The event welcomes and helps new BPS kindergarten families prepare for a successful start to the school year. Pictured here, four-year-old Liam Rousmaniere of Hyde Park, who is entering K1 at the Franklin D. Roosevelt K-8 School, practices boarding a yellow school bus. See the photo gallery, and visit Countdown's new website! Kindergarten students begin school in Boston on Monday, September 14.

Health Careers Academy seeks renaming after Ted Kennedy

The Boston School Committee has approved a request from Health Careers Academy to rename the school in memory of the late Senator Ted Kennedy. The school, located on the campus of Northeastern University, will now seek permission from State officials to become the Edward M. Kennedy Academy for Health Careers: A Horace Mann Public Charter School to honor the legislator’s lifelong commitment to health care and public education. Mayor Thomas M. Menino suggested the name change in a letter to the school’s Headmaster and Board of Trustees last week.

Back to school for parents, too!

This fall, BPS will launch Parent University, a new program to help parents and other caregivers support student learning.

See coverage in the Boston Globe and on New England Cable News:

Additional school and district leaders named

Dr. Johnson has announced the appointment of additional school principals and district leaders for the upcoming school year.

"Middle O!" welcomes 6th graders to Fenway Park

Hundreds of incoming sixth grade students and their families visited Fenway Park yesterday for the first "Middle O!" celebration. The event welcomed students who will be entering BPS middle schools next month with food, games, prizes, resources, and readiness activities to help ensure a smooth transition. Mayor Menino, School Committee members and Superintendent Johnson joined middle school principals and other staff, partner organizations and volunteers, as well as special guest Wally the Green Monster, the Boston Red Sox mascot.

Sportsmanship Award to Madison boys' volleyball

The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) has selected the team from Madison Park Technical-Vocational High School (Roxbury) as the winner of the 2009 Boys' Volleyball Team Sportsmanship Award. The team received a standing ovation at a cermony in Ashland, Mass., during the state boys' volleyball championships last month. Led by coach Marcie Fiorini, the team includes Larry Williams, Elysander Plaza, Edson Barbosa, Elino DaSilva, Jonathan Deleon, Elly Escalera, Khayree Hudson, Vu Le, Juan Ocasio, Ivandir Resende and Dariano Pina.

New elementary literacy program: Reading Street

Superintendent Johnson today announced the adoption of a new elementary reading program for BPS students in kindergarten through grade 5: Scott Foresman Reading Street from Pearson. A thorough review process led local educators to select the program, in part because it includes a range of instructional materials for students with varying academic skills and needs, including children with disabilities and English Language Learners. Principals and teachers will be introduced to the program this summer, with training taking place throughout the fall.

To learn more about Reading Street, visit the website or watch the short video below about the use of the program in Revere, Mass.:

O'Bryant graduate earns Hispanic Heritage Youth Award

Massiel de los Santos, a 2009 graduate of the John D. O’Bryant School of Math and Science, was honored earlier this month during the 12th Annual National Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards Ceremony held in Miami, Florida. Read about her in the South End News.

Dorchester Academy set to open in former Dorchester High

When the new school year begins in September, the new Dorchester Academy will open in the former Dorchester High School. Dorchester Academy, whose official name was approved by the School Committee last week, is the merger of two former schools in the building: Noonan Business Academy and the Academy of Public Service. It will feature an academic and career focus on public service, business, and the law.

BPS teacher to lead visit to Kyoto, Japan

BPS teacher Timothy Nagaoka will lead a group of nearly two dozen local educators on a trip to Kyoto, Japan, later this month. The visit is part of the 50th anniversary celebration of the "Sister City" relationship between Boston and Kyoto. The Japan Society of Boston recently honored Mr. Nagaoka's leadership with the distinguished John E. Thayer Award.

Supt. Johnson elected Chair of national board

Dr. Carol R. Johnson, Superintendent of the Boston Public Schools, has been elected Chair of the Board for the Council of the Great City Schools, a coalition of 67 of the nation’s largest urban public school systems.

O'Hearn School renamed after Dr. Henderson

After 20 years as principal of the Patrick O'Hearn Elementary School in Dorchester, Dr. William Henderson will retire at the end of this week. Yesterday, the school community honored its longtime leader with a ceremony in which they surprised him with the news that the school has been renamed the Dr. William Henderson Elementary School. Under Bill's leadership, the school has emerged as a national model for inclusive education of students with and without disabilities. See coverage: Boston Globe, WBZ-TV, WBUR.

Kevin Youkilis launches "Batting for Books" for BPS

Kevin Youkilis Hits for Kids this week announced "Batting for Books," a two-day book drive at Fenway Park to support libraries in the Boston Public Schools. During the Kansas City Royals series on July 11 and 12, the Red Sox slugger has asked fans to drop off new and gently used children's books to donate to the city schools.

Four artists win Aznive Scholarships

Superintendent Carol R. Johnson recently award Grace N. Aznive Visual Arts Scholarships to four graduating BPS seniors. Established in 1972 in memory of a distinguished BPS visual arts teacher, the $1,000 scholarship awards are given annually to visual arts students planning to continue their study of art at a college or university.

Madison's Jaquite wins national jumping title

Ricardo Jaquite of Madison Park Technical-Vocational High School returned from Greensboro, NC, this weekend with a national title in track and field. The junior, originally from Portugal, won the triple jump event at the Nike High School National Track & Field Competition with a jump of 49 feet, 10 inches. See coverage in the Boston Herald.

"Family Matters" wins NSPRA award

Family Matters, the BPS newsletter for families and staff, has won an Award of Merit from the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). The publication is produced by the BPS Communications Office and is designed and edited by Gretchen O'Neill. It is mailed to the homes of all BPS families and staff four times per year at no cost to the school district.

Additional school leaders named

Superintendent Johnson has announced additional principal and headmaster appointments for next year, including Ethan d'Ablemont Burnes (pictured here), who will lead the Manning Elementary School in Jamaica Plain. Dr. Johnson also named Dr. Linda Cabral as Assistant Academic Superintendent for High Schools.

Mayor Menino announces plans to advance BPS progress

In an address today to business leaders at the Chief Executives’ Club Luncheon, Mayor Thomas M. Menino emphasized the need to transform public education in Boston to ensure the city's long-term economic stability. Mayor Menino noted substantial progress in the schools since the early 1990s but emphasized the need for more dramatic improvement. He outlined a plan to accelerate progress by pursuing two reforms – creating a new form of in-district charter schools and introducing performance pay for educators in the Boston Public Schools.

Graduating at the top of the Class of 2009

Graduation season is underway in the Boston Public Schools, beginning with the tradition of honoring the top graduates of the Class of 2009 at the 11th annual Valedictorians Luncheon. (Pictured here is Dana Mendes from Snowden International High School.) The valedictorians also were featured in the Boston Globe, including a profile of Edner Paul from the O'Bryant School. A Boston Herald story yesterday about graduates born in Africa highlighted Brook Farm Academy valedictorian Chidiogo Onwuakor, as well as New Mission High School graduate Michael Wogbeh. More success stories from the Class of 2009 coming soon!

Publishing Party at the Bates

The Bates Elementary School in Roslindale recently welcomed Mayor Thomas M. Menino and other community guests to a Publishing Party, featuring students reading aloud from their written work. Watch the video below of second grade poets produced by BPS-TV, and read about it in the Roslindale Transcript.

Hale leader named "Mass. Elementary Principal of the Year"

Sandra Mitchell-Woods, principal of the Nathan Hale Elementary School in Roxbury, has been named the Massachusetts Elementary School Principal of the Year. The Massachusetts Elementary School Principals’ Association (MESPA) has awarded Ms. Mitchell-Woods the 2009 Thomas C. Passios Outstanding Principal Award. Commissioner of Education Mitchell Chester presented the award at the recent MESPA annual conference in Hyannis.

Principal appointments announced

Superintendent Carol R. Johnson today announced the appointment of 10 individuals to serve as principals in the Boston Public Schools next year. Dr. Johnson will name additional principals and headmasters later this month.

Report highlights Curley K-8 literacy work

A new report from the Center for American Progress, "Putting the Pieces of the Puzzle Together: How Systematic Vocabulary Instruction and Expanded Learning Time Can Address the Literacy Gap," highlights Boston's work to improve adolescent literacy skills. The report describes Boston Public Schools' involvement with the Strategic Education Research Partnership (SERP) to strengthen reading fluency among middle school students. The Curley K-8 School is featured as a case study in the report for its implementation of Word Generation to build students' academic vocabulary across subject areas.

BPS musicians perform with Boston Pops

Nine Boston Public Schools student musicians have won the opportunity of a lifetime: to perform at Symphony Hall with Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops, through the "Fidelity FutureStage® at the Boston Pops" competition. Watch them on NECN:

BLS student named one of the world's best young scientists

She's only a junior in high school, but already Olivia Schwob has earned international recognition for her work in the sciences. At the recent Intel International Science & Engineering Fair, the Boston Latin School student from West Roxbury was one of only three students from around the world to earn a "Young Scientist" prize, including a $50,000 scholarship. Olivia’s project, How Worms Learn III: Mammalian Gene Expression and Associative Conditioning, earned her a first prize and was named “Best in Category” in the Behavioral Science division. Fellow Boston Latin School student Anartya Mandal also earned a first prize and a “Best in Category” award in the Biochemistry division. At the recent Massachusetts Science Fair, sixteen Boston Public Schools students also earned prizes.

Three students win Bruins essay contest

Three BPS students have been named winners of the Boston Bruins / ReadBoston “Stick With It” essay contest about teamwork. The young authors each have won a hockey stick autographed by the team, and their winning essays are posted on the Boston Bruins website. Pictured here is third grade winner Justin Baldassari of East Boston from the Alighieri Elementary School with librarian Lois Foley.

Become a fan of the new BPS facebook page!

Boston Public Schools now has a facebook page! Visit the page to see news, images, events and announcements about the Boston Public Schools. Become a fan in order to receive email updates.

 

Mather students pay tribute to the Bruins

The Boston Bruins' quest for the Stanley Cup may have come to an end, but we are proud of our hometown NHL team's great season! During the playoffs, the Mather Elementary School held a rally to cheer the team on to victory.

Kudos for Boston teachers

Teachers and other Boston Public Schools staff have earned distinctions recently. Congratulations to these dedicated educators:

• Educators of the Year and Service Excellence Award winners;
• Erin Flynn, Philbrick Elementary School, finalist for Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching; and
• National Board Certified teachers.

Invention earns Charlestown senior $15,000 scholarship

Min Zhong, a senior at Charlestown High School, has earned a $15,000 scholarship for inventing a new medical alert system. Min took first prize in the 4th annual Power of an Idea® competition sponsored by the Boston-based law firm Burns & Levinson LLP. See coverage in the Boston Herald. Pictured here, left to right, are David Rosenblatt, managing partner of Burns & Levinson; Min Zhong; and Dr. Margaret Bledsoe, Headmaster of Charlestown High School, at the awards ceremony yesterday.

ACC Headmaster a finalist for White House Fellows

The Headmaster of Another Course to College is a finalist for the White House Fellows program. Rachel Skerritt is one of only 30 finalists from around the country, including professionals from business, medicine, law, non-profit, media, government, and education.

Madison Park teacher named "Dental Educator of the Year"

The Massachusetts Dental Society has presented the Dental Educator of the Year Award to Ruby Elder-Bush (right), a Dental Assisting instructor at Madison Park Technical-Vocational High School. At left is Gerson DePina, a senior at Madison Park who is certified in Dental Radiology and has earned a full scholarship to Boston College.

Boston high school students show off their Calculus skills

More than 80 students from ten Boston public high schools competed recently in the first Calculus Field Day, in which teams of three students solved complex math problems and learned about college and career opportunities. Pictured here is the winning team from the Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus team from Boston Community Leadership Academy.

O'Hearn Elementary student's work selected for national exhibit

A work of art by Patrick O’Hearn Elementary School student Naieer Shaheed will represent the state of Massachusetts in the “All Kids Can…CREATE!” exhibition, which will open in June in Washington, D.C. Naieer created Clementines, pictured here, during a lesson based on the work by Paul Cezanne. Students used their knowledge of geometric shapes and forms to simplify the subject matter and created drawings on toned paper using chalk pastels.

Boston debaters to compete in national tournament

Eight Boston Public Schools students are heading to Chicago this weekend to compete in a national debate tournament. Students from the Boston Debate League were featured recently in the Bay State Banner, South End News and on New England Cable News (above).

UPDATE 4-29-09: The Boston debaters are back from Chicago. Read about how they did in the tournament.

Five-zone proposal hearings announced

Superintendent Johnson and the Boston School Committee have announced a schedule of community meetings to review the proposed five-zone student assignment model. Over the next two months, families, staff and members of the public will have numerous opportunities to learn more about the proposal -- designed to reduce transportation costs, create walkable communities, and preserve school choice -- and offer testimony about it. Read about the latest developments on the "Pathways to Excellence" initiative on the BPS website.

BPS news headlines

Here are some of the recent press releases sent to local media about great things happening in the Boston Public Schools:

• Boston’s “greenest” school plants the seeds of environmental learning


• Students “aim for the sky” at Aviation/Transportation Expo


• Haley Elementary students learn about African-American maritime history


• Boston Day and Evening Academy teacher wins MetLife "Ambassador in Education" Award


• Superintendent appoints new Assistant Superintendent for English Language Learning


• Mass Audubon honors Philbrick teacher Marissa Thornton


• Horace Mann School wins grant to promote science literacy among Deaf students


• Student scientists showcase original research


• O'Bryant basketball player competes in New England High School All-Star Challenge


• Frederick Pilot Middle School named an "Apple Distinguished School"

WBZ Radio features Madison Park High School

WBZ Radio's Carl Stevens posted an audio story about students learning skills and academics at Madison Park Technical Vocational High School.

Looking for a summer program for your child?

The Boston Public Schools and other City of Boston agencies are eager to help city youth find safe, fun activities for the summer, including camps, classes, and jobs for older students. Learn more about summer opportunities on the summer page of the BPS website, which includes Summer Stuff and Summer Stuff Jr. resource guides, summer reading lists, and more.

Boston dropout rate continues to decline

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) today released annual dropout rates for all public high schools and school districts in the Commonwealth from the 2007-2008 school year. For the second consecutive year, dropout rates in the Boston Public Schools continued to improve: 7.6%, down from 9.9% just two years ago. Boston's dropout rate is now at its lowest point since 2002. Superintendent Carol R. Johnson has made "Graduation for All" one of the cornerstones of her Acceleration Agenda, with specific goals, targets and strategies to ensure that all students complete high school "college-ready and success-bound."

Clap School celebrates namesake's 400th birthday

The Roger Clap Elementary School in Dorchester recently marked the 400th birthday of the man after whom the school was named. Roger Clap was born in England on April 6,1609. He came to America in 1630, became a founding father of Dorchester, and served as second commander of the fort on Castle Island. Students learned about his life and legacy through a visit to his gravesite at King's Chapel Burial Ground, research at the Dorchester Historical Society, and an assembly to demonstrate their learning. Read about it in the Dorchester Reporter and South Boston Online.

Boston Globe names Winter All-Scholastics

Several Boston Public Schools players and coaches have been honored for their contributions to winter sports in the Boston Globe All-Scholastics.

All-Scholastic athletes include:

• Darius Carter, senior, TechBoston Academy (Dorchester), Boys' Basketball, pictured here
• Meisha Brooks, junior, Boston Latin School, Girls' Track

Coaches of the Year include:

• Greg Berry, New Mission, Girls' Basketball
• Kristyn Hughes, Charlestown, Boys' Track
• Michael Meagher, Boston Latin School, Girls' Track

Congratulations also to the BPS athletes named "All-Stars" in the annual special section of the Globe.

School Committee approves FY2010 budget

The Boston School Committee last night unanimously approved Superintendent Carol R. Johnson's $812 million budget proposal after extensive public testimony in the packed auditorium of the Frederick Middle School. The Boston Public Schools budget now becomes part of Mayor Menino's budget submission for the entire City of Boston to the Boston City Council. Today, the Mayor and Superintendent joined hundreds of BPS parents in a rally at the State House to urge Governor Patrick to award State Stabilization Fund dollars from the federal stimulus package to Boston.

C-o-n-g-r-a-t-u-l-a-t-i-o-n-s!

Boston 4th through 8th grade students participated last weekend in the Boston Centers for Youth and Families' (BCYF) 2nd Annual Spelling Bee at Faneuil Hall. Pictured here are student participants and special guests, left to right, Superintendent Dr. Carol Johnson, Boston Public Library President Amy Ryan, Bruins Foundation Director of Development Bob Sweeney, School Committee Vice-Chair Marchelle Raynor, and BCYF Executive Director Daphne Griffin. The winner of this year's bee, J. Rexon Apurado of Brighton, a fifth grader at the Hamilton Elementary School, will now go on to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. in May. Watch him spell the winning word in the video below...

Youth leaders learn that "Art is Action"

More than 200 students from dozens of Boston public middle and high schools gathered recently at the Massachusetts College of Art for "Art is Action," a youth leadership conference sponsored by the Pilot / Horace Mann Schools Network and hosted by Boston Arts Academy. Through workshops and performances, students learned how art can be used for social change.

Recognize an outstanding Boston educator!

April 3 is the deadline for school communities to submit nominations for 2009 Boston Educators of the Year. The program recognizes outstanding teachers, paraprofessionals, guidance counselors, school nurses and other Boston Public Schools educators who have made a unique contribution to their students, their classrooms, and their schools. Winners will be honored at a special ceremony on June 8.

UPDATE: Deadline for nominations extended to April 7.