Could spring be in the air? With area temperatures possibly climbing into the 60’s this week and Daylight Savings Time happening next Sunday 3/14, we could all use some more sun and spring vibes.
Five important guidance related messages and events are highlighted here:
Five important guidance related messages and events are highlighted here:
- Almost everyone’s mental health has been affected this past year. Be sure to take some time to read recent messages from BHS. (This information is also listed below and attached to this email.) Take the time to take care of yourself too!
- Students in Grades 9-11 will begin to add their course requests for 2021-22 into their student portals starting this Tues 3/9 through 3/30. As courses are considered, school and life BALANCE for each student is key. Students should have heard from their teachers regarding course level recommendations. They also should be aware of what credits they need to earn a BHS diploma by their graduation. The STUDENT PORTAL will allow students to upload elective and wellness courses. The 2021-22 BHS Course Catalog is now available on the BHS homepage .
- For Class of 2022 – BHS Guidance will be sponsoring its first Virtual College Fair this Wednesday 3/10 from 6:30-8:30pm. Information has been shared in other emails and is also listed here.
There will be 2 IPRs (progress reports) for this Quarter 3. The first IPR are scheduled to be posted to student and parent portals tomorrow Monday 3/8. Please be sure to review this information. It’s great to validate academic successes and to provide constructive problemsolving with your student in areas of challenge. Have your student reach out to their teachers and available academic supports if needed.
This week is another special schedule week. Friday 3/12 will be a ½ day for BHS students with classes ending at 12:30pm so staff can participate in afternoon professional development. See the schedule attached to this email.
Check out this recent Boston Globe article on some “silver linings” over the past year - https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/02/26/magazine/4-ways-families-can-find-silver-linings-this-terrible-pandemic-year/?et_rid=686042817&s_campaign=BGSubscribers:newsletter
Keep in mind that any new updates to the Weekly Update are highlighted in blue.
Dates to Note-
March 9-30 - Portal open to add electives, wellness for senior year
April 5 - Deadline for course level changes. Next opportunity to override is after two week waiting period in September. Please consider your student’s teacher recommendations and reach out to the teacher (or counselor) if you have any questions.
April 6 - Quarter 3 ends
Mental health Supports:
It’s been a year of pandemic challenges. Brookline High Head of School Anthony Meyer and Coordinator of Guidance and Couneling Darby Neff-Verre shared a letter last week to remind families of the social/emotional/mental health supports and resources available at BHS and in the Brookline vicinity. In addition, BHS School Psychologist Matt DuBois coordinated a detailed overview of signs and symptoms of red flags for mental health concerns. Please be sure to read these communications and do not hesitate to ask for help if you are concerned. See those communications attached to this email as well.
Also for parents/caregivers – Need some support right now?
BRYT Central is offering free Parents Supporting Parents groups open to all caregivers. See attached flyer for details.
Don’t worry alone!
Students - Feeling down? Always anxious or worried? Concerned about someone else in your life – friend, family member? Not sleeping well because your mind can’t shut down? If these questions sound familiar, please talk to a trusted adult at home or in school.
Guidance/school counselors and other clinical support staff at Brookline High are here to listen, assess, and support you so you are not carrying these burdens alone. Please reach out to your counselor. You can also reach out to a BHS faculty member (including Darby Neff-Verre – Coordinator of BHS Guidance/Counseling) to start the conversation about how we can help you build strategies or get connected to feel safe and better about your situation. Contact your counselor at their email, zoom visiting hours, or phone.
ALL STUDENTS
MOVIE NIGHT this coming Saturday at 8:00 PM hosted by the BHS Partners in Health Engaged Club.
Join us remotely at no cost to watch the documentary, Bending the Arc! This is an inspiring documentary about a group of health care workers who decided to make quality healthcare available to those in poor countries. They raised money and generated partnerships to later create Partners In Health.
If you’re interested in watching, please fill out this google form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1cYj30j2btWb6ESu30Dg1WnWWkNR9CxgSeFI0GKZ1iLc/edit
Students – Looking for some connection with BHS community? Check out the attached flyer that lists both in-person and remote student groups and community opportunities happening now at BHS!
BHS Students taking AP Exams – Total Registration email was sent to you recently but you can also see the updated AP exam information and BHS exam schedule attached to this email.
Download the official Brookline High School App! Created by the App Development Club, the BHS App is an innovative product that transforms your high school experience.
Get real-time schedule tracking. Chat with students in your classes. Make school wide announcements. Make new friends. All through the BHS App!
To download, search “Brookline High School” on the Google Play or Apple App Store; or visit https://bhsappdev.github.io.
IdeaSpace Craft-Along Kit Reservations - Thursday - Public Library of Brookline
Thursday, 7pm until supplies run out
Reserve your Craft-Along (for makers ages 13-103) or Craft-Along Jr. (for makers ages 5-9) Kit on Eventbrite – we offer a new project every second Monday of the month, and you can place a reservation beginning at 7 PM the Thursday before they become available. We’ll put your kit(s) on the holdshelf for two weeks, starting Monday, March 8. Just swing by the Library any time during open hours to pick them up! Whenever you’re ready for a Craft Night, open up your kit and follow the shortlink to your video workshop. That’s it! You can keep everything in your Craft-Along – no returns necessary. Copy and paste this link to your browser (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ideaspace-craft-along-march-kits-tickets-131509730143) starting at 7pm on Thursday, March 4th to reserve your kit. You can also use that link to set an auto-reminder for Thursday when the kit reservations become available.
Students – Need help in math? Check this out…. Student-led Math Center with the guidance of Mr. Paris and Ms. Kostant. Every morning from 7:30 to 8:15, they hold a Zoom Meeting that students can join to receive help in any of their work in math. Here’s a link to the daily Zoom Meeting: (https://zoom.us/j/96741784699?pwd=QW4yNzZMSlRUR2NQcjhBRmFOQ052Zz09).
BHS Club and Extracurricular information:
BHS is creating the first girls rugby team at BHS this Spring! Check out their website - https://brooklinegirlsrugby.wixsite.com/my-site. Currently recruiting for the boys and girls teams!
Interested in playing or have questions?
Girls Captain: desmall0403@gmail.com
Boys Captain: nickjohnlockwood@outlook.com
Are you interested in getting involved with the BHS community and finding a concrete group of peers to call your own, all while honing your theatrical skills? Look no further than BHS' Drama Society, led by it's student exec board and teachers, comprising in-school classes, community events, and shows! At the high school, drama courses include Drama 1/1A (full and half year courses for students just getting involved,) Drama 2/2A (a continual buildup of growth extending from Drama 1 classes,) and our upper-level BETCo and Needs Improvment options! In the future, on Thursday and Friday, March 4th-5th, the States Devised Show will go up at 7:00pm each night, written by the students themselves! The following week on Thursday and Friday, March 11th-12th, the Spring Play will premiere, (also at 7:00pm each showtime and student written.) AND, if you weren't enticed enough to get involved, auditions for the annual Student Directed Festival will be happening March 17th, with several student-lead pieces to possibly be cast in! Keep an eye on incoming information, and we can't wait to (hopefully) meet you!
BHS Drama Society Exec Board
*visit our Instagram @bhsdramasoc, TikTok @brooklinedramasociety, and website brooklinedrama.weebly.com to stay clued in on upcoming events!*
Want to learn more about environmental racism and take action in the fight for climate justice? Join BHS Amnesty International, the Environmental Action Club, and Sunrise Brookline in Climate Justice Month. This group will continue to host three more different events each Wednesday focused on education and actions surrounding climate justice.
This Wednesday, they’ll discuss different local and federal legislation surrounding climate change and phonebank. For our last event, we’ll listen to a speaker and engage in a conversation about the climate crisis and its implications. We’ll be meeting at 7:30pm for around an hour each Wednesday of the month.
Lastly, if you come to 3 out of the 4 events you will be eligible to win a prize!
To sign up, use this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1uks8OlUWKFn5aKeYzxXy30H0WaTxNq1y3lNgB0gpqVg/edit
COVID Related Resources
Mutual Aid Brookline (MAB) shares this information…
FREE SERVICES
211 COVID Vaccine Appointment Assistance Over the Phone - Ongoing - Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
A new Vaccine Scheduling Resource Line has been launched to help residents 75 and older more easily schedule an appointment if they do not have internet or are unable to use the website at www.mass.gov/COVIDVaccine.
The call center will be staffed with over 500 representatives who can provide live phone support to assist residents with booking an appointment.
The line will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Live call center workers will be available in English and Spanish, and 100 additional languages will be available through translators. Call center workers will have the same access to appointments that users will see on the public website.
The line can be accessed by dialing 2–1–1 and selecting the prompt for “Help Scheduling a Vaccine Appointment.” Residents may have to wait on the line given expected high call volume.
Summer Opportunities and Jobs:
Opportunities 2021 for BHS students– Summer is only 3 months away and it’s time to think to sun, temperatures in the 80’s and interesting ways to spend your summer. Thanks to BHS Career Counselor Kate Kennedy and counseling intern David Ehrlich, please copy and paste this google doc in your browser for more info: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1o7GiMWRfEo2ByK8I7d1EvNRgF4h4NkGHKT9T64XtuNU/edit
And here’s a link to the Teen Life updated 2021 Summer Programs guide - https://indd.adobe.com/view/68806d31-27c9-4616-bfa7-7283711259c0. A great resource for many summer opportunities!
Resources for remote volunteer opportunities for BHS:
Try checking out this community service link from the free resource Teen Life - https://www.teenlife.com/category/volunteer/volunteer-boston/
Career Exploration:
The Boston chapter of PWC (Professional Women in Construction) is offering this great event for young women looking at construction and design related fields. This virtual event is on March 9th from 3-4pm. The event will include discussions of the different career paths available in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction fields.
There will be an opportunity for students to speak with professionals to ask questions and discuss any topics of interest. Registration is required and free for all – see below. The event will take place on zoom (link will be sent to registered attendees in advance of the event). Copy and past this link to your browser to register - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/full-steam-ahead-career-paths-of-women-in-aec-tickets-141997511379
A FREE DAY OF LIVE VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS FOR EMERGING FILMMAKERS IN GRADES 7-12 – MARCH 6, 10AM TO 4PM
This year, Gold Coast International Film Festival and Hofstra University are teaming up to present VIRTUAL Youth Film Day. This event is FREE for all interested students – you just need to register in advance. This year’s event will include:
SENIORS
Understanding Financial Aid Award Letters Webinar – The 2nd webinar in a financial aid workshop series is being offered on Saturday 3/20 @ 11:30am in collaboration with MassEdco. This is a workshop that is federally funded and geared for low income/first gen students/families. For all other families, MassEdco is a resource in more of a 1:1 way in which students can contact them directly. See attached flyer entitled “Understanding Financial Aid Award Letters”.
And another opportunity to understand Fin Aid Award Letters for all BHS Families - When your college financial aid package arrives, please join MEFA (MA Educational Financing Authority)…… After the College Acceptance
Thursday, March 18, 2021 | 7:00pm - 8:00pm
This webinar provides valuable guidance for high school seniors who have received their college acceptance letters and financial aid offers and are trying to make the college decision. Topics include an overview of different types of financial aid, an explanation of how to calculate the balance due at each college, and methods for paying the college bill. Register at : https://www.mefa.org/events/after-the-college-acceptance2
The alternate date is Thursday, April 08, 7pm. Register at
https://www.mefa.org/events/after-the-college-acceptance4
Brookline Scholarship application period ends on April 15. All students who would like to be considered for the BHS scholarships (which are need based) need to submit their scholarship applications and CSS Profile by April 15th.
The scholarship application link is: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdp0n0dznzcGGiZ12S8sfE57lyshVlD_DOKqlfyjz_2yK0l1w/viewform and can also be found on the main page of the BHS website.
The CSS Profile is located on the College Board website. It must be completed and submitted to the BHS Scholarship Fund - code 0424.
The March BHS Scholarship Letter is now available – please see the attached latter
If you got into a school and you are 100% sure you will not go there, please let them know (especially if this is a state school). Colleges are experiencing a huge increase in applications this year, and are therefore using waitlist and deferrals--so your email might help another student get in.
Interested in applying to Framingham State University? You have a great opportunity to get accepted on the spot at Framingham State University…. Join FSU and BHS for a Virtual Admissions Decision Day. Register to meet with an FSU admissions representative to discuss your application and receive your decision (please note, in some cases FSU will not be able to provide a decision at the time of meeting, but will let you know what your next steps are. Application fees will be waived for participating applicants). Here are the steps:
1) Make an appointment for the zoom session. Important: this will be a zoom meeting with the FSU Admissions Counselor who makes the admission decisions. Please come on time & represent BHS well.
2) Complete Commonapp.org for FSU, or FSU’s own application. Framingham State does not require an essay. To get the fee waiver, there is a question on both the FSU App, and then on the Common App (in the FSU questions) that asks if you are eligible for a school specific waiver. Select "official campus visit." It's okay if you submit the app before the meeting, once the meeting takes place FSU will make sure the app fee is waived.
3) Complete the transcript release form, & email Mr. Libenzon (lenny_libenzon@psbma.org) to indicate that you will attend the on-the-spot session.
Thinking about a post grad path that is NOT college specific? Check in with your counselor and/or Kate Kennedy, the BHS Career Counselor, for ideas and resources.
SENIORS AND JUNIORS
Save the Date - Evening online webinar event from author and presenter Harlan Cohen on Wednesday, April 14 @ 7pm- 17 Things You Need To Do Before College: New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen delivers helpful tips and strategies for students and parents during this info-packed interactive live virtual event. Learn about the latest research, trends, and plans college campuses are making to welcome the Class of 2021. This event is perfect for seniors, parents and juniors in the college planning process. There is no cost to attend. Registration link is coming!
JUNIORS
BHS Virtual College Fair Web Address: http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/guidance/bhs-virtual-college-fair
BHS Virtual College Fair is this Wednesday, March 10th, from 6:30 -8:30pm. We have more than 166 colleges signed up, including a number of HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities). Juniors can join the colleges’ virtual booths from the comfort of your home. All you need to do is click on the zoom link!
This is the first time BHS Guidance has offered a virtual college fair and the BHS College Counselor Lenny Libenzon has worked hard provide this offering for BHS juniors. Please note that zoom links will be "live" only on Wednesday--do not use them prior to the fair. Important: plan to attend 5 to 10 different booths (see more advice on how to navigate the fair below). If you have difficulty accessing a particular college’s link, please contact Lenny Libenzon at his email (lenny_libenzon@psbma.org) or on his zoom link - 3
Here is the google document with all the zoom links - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/102hJZv7W0dD5BtkF8SkG4WcET2Xvb5NjZIpjN56E8Vc/edit#gid=0
Here is the document with our tips for how to navigate the fair, and what questions to ask. - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oN9M4jmUHVSBbSPd9i7LuXZee1UuPJS9aBWX99E9g7U/edit
Please email Mr. Libenzon (lenny_libenzon@psbma.org) if you have any questions about the fair!
Your unofficial transcript is now available to review on your student portal. Please review your unofficial transcript for any missing classes, incompletes or errors. Contact your counselor with any questions or concerns.
You should be checking that you are on your way to earning all required credits towards graduation in June 2022.
English- 4 credits
Science - 3 credits
Social Studies/History - 3 credits including US History
Math - 3 credits (4 years required for UMass State colleges/universities)
World Language - 2 credits (same language)
Elective - 3 credits distributed across Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Career/Tech, Community Service
Wellness - .5 Lifetime Wellness, 3 - .25 wellness credits
Time to attend some virtual COLLEGE FAIRS!
National Portfolio Days
Students can register to attend any of the free, online National Portfolio Days. Copy and paste this link to your browser - https://nationalportfolioday.org/about-national-portfolio-day-events/
Upon registering, participating students will receive information on how to upload their portfolio for the virtual reviews. Representatives will access their work while the review happens virtually on the day/time of the scheduled event.
NACAC Virtual College Fair
Encourage your students to register for free at virtualcollegefairs.org.
More than 500 colleges and universities will present more than 1,500 Zoom sessions for high school students on January 31. It's a great day to explore, ask questions, and demonstrate interest... all without leaving home.
College Board offers BigFuture Days Northeast takes place this Sunday, March 7, 4:00-8:00pm. Go to https://pages.collegeboard.org/big-future-days to register. Before you attend BigFuture Days, be sure to save a list of the colleges you are most interested in to be organizes as you connect with BigFuture. If you are unsure about a college, you can check out their website, social media properties, or profile page on BigFuture. For more information about what to do before BigFuture Days Northeast, visit this page. You’ll be able to connect with admissions representatives and current college students from the following schools and more! Click on the school name to view their profile page on BigFuture.
BigFuture Days Midwest is on Thursday, March 11.
March 31 - Virtual Panel re: College Support Services for Students with Learning Differences - 6:30pm
Many colleges & universities remain test-optional for the Class of 2022. Copy and paste this link to see the regularly updated list from FairTest - https://www.fairtest.org/more-half-all-us-colleges-and-universities-are-alr
BHS Librarians are offering….. FREE online ACT/ SAT/ TOEFL test prep support started Thurs Feb 11. Any junior can register for any or all sessions to support their admissions testing preparation. Check out the attached flyer and register here - https://forms.gle/2y1uxvhMs9j7xW2M7
This week is another special schedule week. Friday 3/12 will be a ½ day for BHS students with classes ending at 12:30pm so staff can participate in afternoon professional development. See the schedule attached to this email.
Check out this recent Boston Globe article on some “silver linings” over the past year - https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/02/26/magazine/4-ways-families-can-find-silver-linings-this-terrible-pandemic-year/?et_rid=686042817&s_campaign=BGSubscribers:newsletter
Keep in mind that any new updates to the Weekly Update are highlighted in blue.
Dates to Note-
March 9-30 - Portal open to add electives, wellness for senior year
April 5 - Deadline for course level changes. Next opportunity to override is after two week waiting period in September. Please consider your student’s teacher recommendations and reach out to the teacher (or counselor) if you have any questions.
April 6 - Quarter 3 ends
Mental health Supports:
It’s been a year of pandemic challenges. Brookline High Head of School Anthony Meyer and Coordinator of Guidance and Couneling Darby Neff-Verre shared a letter last week to remind families of the social/emotional/mental health supports and resources available at BHS and in the Brookline vicinity. In addition, BHS School Psychologist Matt DuBois coordinated a detailed overview of signs and symptoms of red flags for mental health concerns. Please be sure to read these communications and do not hesitate to ask for help if you are concerned. See those communications attached to this email as well.
Also for parents/caregivers – Need some support right now?
BRYT Central is offering free Parents Supporting Parents groups open to all caregivers. See attached flyer for details.
Don’t worry alone!
Students - Feeling down? Always anxious or worried? Concerned about someone else in your life – friend, family member? Not sleeping well because your mind can’t shut down? If these questions sound familiar, please talk to a trusted adult at home or in school.
Guidance/school counselors and other clinical support staff at Brookline High are here to listen, assess, and support you so you are not carrying these burdens alone. Please reach out to your counselor. You can also reach out to a BHS faculty member (including Darby Neff-Verre – Coordinator of BHS Guidance/Counseling) to start the conversation about how we can help you build strategies or get connected to feel safe and better about your situation. Contact your counselor at their email, zoom visiting hours, or phone.
ALL STUDENTS
MOVIE NIGHT this coming Saturday at 8:00 PM hosted by the BHS Partners in Health Engaged Club.
Join us remotely at no cost to watch the documentary, Bending the Arc! This is an inspiring documentary about a group of health care workers who decided to make quality healthcare available to those in poor countries. They raised money and generated partnerships to later create Partners In Health.
If you’re interested in watching, please fill out this google form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1cYj30j2btWb6ESu30Dg1WnWWkNR9CxgSeFI0GKZ1iLc/edit
Students – Looking for some connection with BHS community? Check out the attached flyer that lists both in-person and remote student groups and community opportunities happening now at BHS!
BHS Students taking AP Exams – Total Registration email was sent to you recently but you can also see the updated AP exam information and BHS exam schedule attached to this email.
Download the official Brookline High School App! Created by the App Development Club, the BHS App is an innovative product that transforms your high school experience.
Get real-time schedule tracking. Chat with students in your classes. Make school wide announcements. Make new friends. All through the BHS App!
To download, search “Brookline High School” on the Google Play or Apple App Store; or visit https://bhsappdev.github.io.
IdeaSpace Craft-Along Kit Reservations - Thursday - Public Library of Brookline
Thursday, 7pm until supplies run out
Reserve your Craft-Along (for makers ages 13-103) or Craft-Along Jr. (for makers ages 5-9) Kit on Eventbrite – we offer a new project every second Monday of the month, and you can place a reservation beginning at 7 PM the Thursday before they become available. We’ll put your kit(s) on the holdshelf for two weeks, starting Monday, March 8. Just swing by the Library any time during open hours to pick them up! Whenever you’re ready for a Craft Night, open up your kit and follow the shortlink to your video workshop. That’s it! You can keep everything in your Craft-Along – no returns necessary. Copy and paste this link to your browser (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ideaspace-craft-along-march-kits-tickets-131509730143) starting at 7pm on Thursday, March 4th to reserve your kit. You can also use that link to set an auto-reminder for Thursday when the kit reservations become available.
Students – Need help in math? Check this out…. Student-led Math Center with the guidance of Mr. Paris and Ms. Kostant. Every morning from 7:30 to 8:15, they hold a Zoom Meeting that students can join to receive help in any of their work in math. Here’s a link to the daily Zoom Meeting: (https://zoom.us/j/96741784699?pwd=QW4yNzZMSlRUR2NQcjhBRmFOQ052Zz09).
BHS Club and Extracurricular information:
BHS is creating the first girls rugby team at BHS this Spring! Check out their website - https://brooklinegirlsrugby.wixsite.com/my-site. Currently recruiting for the boys and girls teams!
Interested in playing or have questions?
Girls Captain: desmall0403@gmail.com
Boys Captain: nickjohnlockwood@outlook.com
Are you interested in getting involved with the BHS community and finding a concrete group of peers to call your own, all while honing your theatrical skills? Look no further than BHS' Drama Society, led by it's student exec board and teachers, comprising in-school classes, community events, and shows! At the high school, drama courses include Drama 1/1A (full and half year courses for students just getting involved,) Drama 2/2A (a continual buildup of growth extending from Drama 1 classes,) and our upper-level BETCo and Needs Improvment options! In the future, on Thursday and Friday, March 4th-5th, the States Devised Show will go up at 7:00pm each night, written by the students themselves! The following week on Thursday and Friday, March 11th-12th, the Spring Play will premiere, (also at 7:00pm each showtime and student written.) AND, if you weren't enticed enough to get involved, auditions for the annual Student Directed Festival will be happening March 17th, with several student-lead pieces to possibly be cast in! Keep an eye on incoming information, and we can't wait to (hopefully) meet you!
BHS Drama Society Exec Board
*visit our Instagram @bhsdramasoc, TikTok @brooklinedramasociety, and website brooklinedrama.weebly.com to stay clued in on upcoming events!*
Want to learn more about environmental racism and take action in the fight for climate justice? Join BHS Amnesty International, the Environmental Action Club, and Sunrise Brookline in Climate Justice Month. This group will continue to host three more different events each Wednesday focused on education and actions surrounding climate justice.
This Wednesday, they’ll discuss different local and federal legislation surrounding climate change and phonebank. For our last event, we’ll listen to a speaker and engage in a conversation about the climate crisis and its implications. We’ll be meeting at 7:30pm for around an hour each Wednesday of the month.
Lastly, if you come to 3 out of the 4 events you will be eligible to win a prize!
To sign up, use this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1uks8OlUWKFn5aKeYzxXy30H0WaTxNq1y3lNgB0gpqVg/edit
COVID Related Resources
Mutual Aid Brookline (MAB) shares this information…
FREE SERVICES
211 COVID Vaccine Appointment Assistance Over the Phone - Ongoing - Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
A new Vaccine Scheduling Resource Line has been launched to help residents 75 and older more easily schedule an appointment if they do not have internet or are unable to use the website at www.mass.gov/COVIDVaccine.
The call center will be staffed with over 500 representatives who can provide live phone support to assist residents with booking an appointment.
The line will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Live call center workers will be available in English and Spanish, and 100 additional languages will be available through translators. Call center workers will have the same access to appointments that users will see on the public website.
The line can be accessed by dialing 2–1–1 and selecting the prompt for “Help Scheduling a Vaccine Appointment.” Residents may have to wait on the line given expected high call volume.
Summer Opportunities and Jobs:
Opportunities 2021 for BHS students– Summer is only 3 months away and it’s time to think to sun, temperatures in the 80’s and interesting ways to spend your summer. Thanks to BHS Career Counselor Kate Kennedy and counseling intern David Ehrlich, please copy and paste this google doc in your browser for more info: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1o7GiMWRfEo2ByK8I7d1EvNRgF4h4NkGHKT9T64XtuNU/edit
And here’s a link to the Teen Life updated 2021 Summer Programs guide - https://indd.adobe.com/view/68806d31-27c9-4616-bfa7-7283711259c0. A great resource for many summer opportunities!
Resources for remote volunteer opportunities for BHS:
Try checking out this community service link from the free resource Teen Life - https://www.teenlife.com/category/volunteer/volunteer-boston/
Career Exploration:
The Boston chapter of PWC (Professional Women in Construction) is offering this great event for young women looking at construction and design related fields. This virtual event is on March 9th from 3-4pm. The event will include discussions of the different career paths available in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction fields.
There will be an opportunity for students to speak with professionals to ask questions and discuss any topics of interest. Registration is required and free for all – see below. The event will take place on zoom (link will be sent to registered attendees in advance of the event). Copy and past this link to your browser to register - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/full-steam-ahead-career-paths-of-women-in-aec-tickets-141997511379
A FREE DAY OF LIVE VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS FOR EMERGING FILMMAKERS IN GRADES 7-12 – MARCH 6, 10AM TO 4PM
This year, Gold Coast International Film Festival and Hofstra University are teaming up to present VIRTUAL Youth Film Day. This event is FREE for all interested students – you just need to register in advance. This year’s event will include:
- LIVE ZOOM WORKSHOPS – Cinematography, Experimental Filmmaking, Special FX Makeup, Directing, Low Budget Special Effects and more! Login to as many workshops as you want throughout the day. For descriptions of all workshops, see attached flyer.
- CONVERSATIONS WITH AWARD-WINNING FILMMAKERS – Hear from award-winning filmmakers whose work has appeared on HBO, Comedy Central, FX Networks and has won awards at film festivals around the world
SENIORS
Understanding Financial Aid Award Letters Webinar – The 2nd webinar in a financial aid workshop series is being offered on Saturday 3/20 @ 11:30am in collaboration with MassEdco. This is a workshop that is federally funded and geared for low income/first gen students/families. For all other families, MassEdco is a resource in more of a 1:1 way in which students can contact them directly. See attached flyer entitled “Understanding Financial Aid Award Letters”.
And another opportunity to understand Fin Aid Award Letters for all BHS Families - When your college financial aid package arrives, please join MEFA (MA Educational Financing Authority)…… After the College Acceptance
Thursday, March 18, 2021 | 7:00pm - 8:00pm
This webinar provides valuable guidance for high school seniors who have received their college acceptance letters and financial aid offers and are trying to make the college decision. Topics include an overview of different types of financial aid, an explanation of how to calculate the balance due at each college, and methods for paying the college bill. Register at : https://www.mefa.org/events/after-the-college-acceptance2
The alternate date is Thursday, April 08, 7pm. Register at
https://www.mefa.org/events/after-the-college-acceptance4
Brookline Scholarship application period ends on April 15. All students who would like to be considered for the BHS scholarships (which are need based) need to submit their scholarship applications and CSS Profile by April 15th.
The scholarship application link is: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdp0n0dznzcGGiZ12S8sfE57lyshVlD_DOKqlfyjz_2yK0l1w/viewform and can also be found on the main page of the BHS website.
The CSS Profile is located on the College Board website. It must be completed and submitted to the BHS Scholarship Fund - code 0424.
The March BHS Scholarship Letter is now available – please see the attached latter
If you got into a school and you are 100% sure you will not go there, please let them know (especially if this is a state school). Colleges are experiencing a huge increase in applications this year, and are therefore using waitlist and deferrals--so your email might help another student get in.
Interested in applying to Framingham State University? You have a great opportunity to get accepted on the spot at Framingham State University…. Join FSU and BHS for a Virtual Admissions Decision Day. Register to meet with an FSU admissions representative to discuss your application and receive your decision (please note, in some cases FSU will not be able to provide a decision at the time of meeting, but will let you know what your next steps are. Application fees will be waived for participating applicants). Here are the steps:
1) Make an appointment for the zoom session. Important: this will be a zoom meeting with the FSU Admissions Counselor who makes the admission decisions. Please come on time & represent BHS well.
2) Complete Commonapp.org for FSU, or FSU’s own application. Framingham State does not require an essay. To get the fee waiver, there is a question on both the FSU App, and then on the Common App (in the FSU questions) that asks if you are eligible for a school specific waiver. Select "official campus visit." It's okay if you submit the app before the meeting, once the meeting takes place FSU will make sure the app fee is waived.
3) Complete the transcript release form, & email Mr. Libenzon (lenny_libenzon@psbma.org) to indicate that you will attend the on-the-spot session.
Thinking about a post grad path that is NOT college specific? Check in with your counselor and/or Kate Kennedy, the BHS Career Counselor, for ideas and resources.
SENIORS AND JUNIORS
Save the Date - Evening online webinar event from author and presenter Harlan Cohen on Wednesday, April 14 @ 7pm- 17 Things You Need To Do Before College: New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen delivers helpful tips and strategies for students and parents during this info-packed interactive live virtual event. Learn about the latest research, trends, and plans college campuses are making to welcome the Class of 2021. This event is perfect for seniors, parents and juniors in the college planning process. There is no cost to attend. Registration link is coming!
JUNIORS
BHS Virtual College Fair Web Address: http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/guidance/bhs-virtual-college-fair
BHS Virtual College Fair is this Wednesday, March 10th, from 6:30 -8:30pm. We have more than 166 colleges signed up, including a number of HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities). Juniors can join the colleges’ virtual booths from the comfort of your home. All you need to do is click on the zoom link!
This is the first time BHS Guidance has offered a virtual college fair and the BHS College Counselor Lenny Libenzon has worked hard provide this offering for BHS juniors. Please note that zoom links will be "live" only on Wednesday--do not use them prior to the fair. Important: plan to attend 5 to 10 different booths (see more advice on how to navigate the fair below). If you have difficulty accessing a particular college’s link, please contact Lenny Libenzon at his email (lenny_libenzon@psbma.org) or on his zoom link - 3
Here is the google document with all the zoom links - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/102hJZv7W0dD5BtkF8SkG4WcET2Xvb5NjZIpjN56E8Vc/edit#gid=0
Here is the document with our tips for how to navigate the fair, and what questions to ask. - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oN9M4jmUHVSBbSPd9i7LuXZee1UuPJS9aBWX99E9g7U/edit
Please email Mr. Libenzon (lenny_libenzon@psbma.org) if you have any questions about the fair!
Your unofficial transcript is now available to review on your student portal. Please review your unofficial transcript for any missing classes, incompletes or errors. Contact your counselor with any questions or concerns.
You should be checking that you are on your way to earning all required credits towards graduation in June 2022.
English- 4 credits
Science - 3 credits
Social Studies/History - 3 credits including US History
Math - 3 credits (4 years required for UMass State colleges/universities)
World Language - 2 credits (same language)
Elective - 3 credits distributed across Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Career/Tech, Community Service
Wellness - .5 Lifetime Wellness, 3 - .25 wellness credits
Time to attend some virtual COLLEGE FAIRS!
National Portfolio Days
Students can register to attend any of the free, online National Portfolio Days. Copy and paste this link to your browser - https://nationalportfolioday.org/about-national-portfolio-day-events/
Upon registering, participating students will receive information on how to upload their portfolio for the virtual reviews. Representatives will access their work while the review happens virtually on the day/time of the scheduled event.
NACAC Virtual College Fair
Encourage your students to register for free at virtualcollegefairs.org.
More than 500 colleges and universities will present more than 1,500 Zoom sessions for high school students on January 31. It's a great day to explore, ask questions, and demonstrate interest... all without leaving home.
College Board offers BigFuture Days Northeast takes place this Sunday, March 7, 4:00-8:00pm. Go to https://pages.collegeboard.org/big-future-days to register. Before you attend BigFuture Days, be sure to save a list of the colleges you are most interested in to be organizes as you connect with BigFuture. If you are unsure about a college, you can check out their website, social media properties, or profile page on BigFuture. For more information about what to do before BigFuture Days Northeast, visit this page. You’ll be able to connect with admissions representatives and current college students from the following schools and more! Click on the school name to view their profile page on BigFuture.
BigFuture Days Midwest is on Thursday, March 11.
March 31 - Virtual Panel re: College Support Services for Students with Learning Differences - 6:30pm
Many colleges & universities remain test-optional for the Class of 2022. Copy and paste this link to see the regularly updated list from FairTest - https://www.fairtest.org/more-half-all-us-colleges-and-universities-are-alr
BHS Librarians are offering….. FREE online ACT/ SAT/ TOEFL test prep support started Thurs Feb 11. Any junior can register for any or all sessions to support their admissions testing preparation. Check out the attached flyer and register here - https://forms.gle/2y1uxvhMs9j7xW2M7