ALL STUDENTS/PARENTS- CARETAKERS
The new 2020-21 Brookline High Course Catalog is here!
http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/uploads/8/0/1/5/801512/bhscat_20_21_final.pdf
Check out the incredible amount of offerings in many areas for electives and wellness courses. See you counselor if you have any questions. Keep in mind the required BHS course credits needed for graduation and talk with your parents-caretakers about the best course load balance for you. The student portal will be open from March 3-24 for all Gr 9-11 BHS students to upload their elective and wellness course selections. Be sure you can access your portal now!
Here are the directions to help you- Aspen Student Portal:
* Username: Year of graduation, last name, first initial e.g. “19smithr”
* Password: the same as your google account and student wifi
* Video Course Registration on X2
The new 2020-21 Brookline High Course Catalog is here!
http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/uploads/8/0/1/5/801512/bhscat_20_21_final.pdf
Check out the incredible amount of offerings in many areas for electives and wellness courses. See you counselor if you have any questions. Keep in mind the required BHS course credits needed for graduation and talk with your parents-caretakers about the best course load balance for you. The student portal will be open from March 3-24 for all Gr 9-11 BHS students to upload their elective and wellness course selections. Be sure you can access your portal now!
Here are the directions to help you- Aspen Student Portal:
* Username: Year of graduation, last name, first initial e.g. “19smithr”
* Password: the same as your google account and student wifi
* Video Course Registration on X2
ALL STUDENTS/PARENTS- CARETAKERS
Please note –Updates are highlighted in BLUE for quick review.
The goals of the BHS Counseling/Guidance department and the school community overall is to encourage students to try their best in school while keeping their stress levels to a healthy level. If you are ever concerned about your student, please reach out to your student’s assigned school counselor.
The new 2020-21 Brookline High Course Catalog is here! http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/uploads/8/0/1/5/801512/bhscat_20_21_final.pdf
Check out the incredible amount of offerings in many areas for electives and wellness courses. See you counselor if you have any questions. Keep in mind the required BHS course credits needed for graduation and talk with your parents-caretakers about the best course load balance for you. The student portal will be open from March 3-24 for all Gr 9-11 BHS students to upload their elective and wellness course selections. Be sure you can access your portal now!
Here are the directions to help you- Aspen Student Portal:
* Username: Year of graduation, last name, first initial e.g. “19smithr”
* Password: the same as your google account and student wifi
* Video Course Registration on X2
Please read the article below on the relevance of trade careers for many young people, including some of our Brookline High students-
https://www.familycircle.com/teen/teens-need-know-they-can-make-money-trade-careers/?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=social-share-article&utm_content=20200108
Suicide is a scary topic but we need to continue to be aware of our teenagers’ mental health needs. Please read the short article here:
https://yourteenmag.com/health/teenager-mental-health/suicide-rates-are-rising
If you are worried about your student’s mental health (or a student is worried about their friend/family member), please contact one of the school counselors for support and resources both in BHS and in the greater community. Never worry alone!
This is WEEK A schedule
Brookline SEPAC and COBAP (Coalition of Brookline Autism Parents) is sponsoring a FREE screening of the documentary Autism Goes To College on March 5, 7 pm, VFW Building, 386 Washington St.
Autism Goes to College is a first of its kind film, packed with honest insights for student, parents and educators offering an eye-opening look at what a growing number of neurodiverse students are bringing to campus. From deciding which school will be the best fit, to interactions with professors and peers, facing roommate situations, handling money, homesickness, finding work, overcoming setbacks, staying on track to graduate– these students come up against aspects of college life students typically encounter. See attached flyer for more information
Brookline Commission for Women - 2020 “A Woman Who Inspires Me” Essay Contest
In celebration of National Women’s History Month, the Brookline Commission for Women is pleased to sponsor its 28th annual student essay contest to honor the women who inspire us most. To participate in the contest, we invite students living or attending school in Brookline, Grades 3–12, to write and submit an essay of no more than 500 words about a woman who is important to you and why and how she inspires you. She can be your doctor, caregiver, neighbor, friend, mother, aunt, teacher, etc. – remember, sometimes “ordinary” people can be extraordinary to you!
When writing your essay, please follow these rules:
Who is Eligible: You must be in the 3rd-12th grade (or, if home-schooled, between 10–18 years of age), live in Brookline, or attend school in Brookline.
The Essay:
1) Your essay should be no more than 500 words.
2) Your essay can be typed or hand-written and should use correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
3) The person you write about must be someone you know personally and who is currently living.
DON’T FORGET TO TELL US THE NAME OF THE PERSON IN YOUR ESSAY!
Deadline: All essays must be submitted (using the online form) by midnight on Friday, February 28, 2020.
Form available at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/56R95T2
Awards will be given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place essays in each of three groups (grades 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12).
SAVE THE DATE for the AWARD CEREMONY: Wednesday, March 25th at 6 p.m. in Hunneman Hall, Brookline Public Library. At the Women Who Inspire Us event on March 25th, we will recognize all essay contest winners, and 1st-place winners will read their essays aloud. At the same event, we will honor Brookline’s 2020 Woman of the Year recipient.
Questions? Please email any questions about the Student Essay Contest to the Brookline Commission for Women at estillman@suffolk.edu
Brookline Community Service Opportunty!
A collaboration between Center Communities of Brookline and Wentworth Institute of Technology offers a chance for BHS students to participate in service to others and get community service credit. Details here:
Every other year, Brookline community partners join Center Communities of Brookline (the event sponsor) to organize a Senior Health Fair. This year’s event will be the 2020 Health Expo with a focus on Technology - innovations, resources and opportunities to support older adults. With an aging population growing faster than ever before, opportunities to highlight and demonstrate innovations for sight, sound, mobility, connectivity and transportation offer such a resoundingly positive experience for older adults in Brookline, as well as those families with older loved ones.
There may be an opportunity for 10 BHS students come to Wentworth (sometime in March) for a workshop and lunch with their students from different disciplines and attend the June 4 Expo to interact with the other Expo attendees. Any interested students should check in with Ms Lisa Gaffney, the BHS Community Service Coordinator, in Room 161.
Coronavirus Information and Medical Supply Drive:
BHS Clinic Update re Coronavirus – PSB school health services will continue to stay informed of updates regarding the coronavirus. We work collaboratively with the Brookline health department, and the state health department, as well as listen to CDC conference calls when they are given, and daily review the CDC website for updates. Our schools continue to follow the guidelines given by the CDC, whose main goal is to protect public health and safety.
While the coronavirus continues to be a rapidly evolving situation, the CDC and DPH state that the risk to Massachusetts residents remains low at this time.
We can all do to help prevent colds and the flu can help protect us against other respiratory viruses as well:
** Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds
** Cover your coughs and sneezes
** Stay home if you are sick
Medical Supply Drive Information:
I am a senior at BHS and from the WuHan community in China. As you know, this is a very serious situation and my relatives there have expressed the importance of having more access to face masks and other medical supplies. As a result, I am launching a collection of medical supplies on Tuesday, February 4th by putting collection boxes in several key locations within BHS (including the atrium, the cafeteria, and next to the library). I have contacted the Harvard Medical School Chinese Student Association who are working with me to guarantee a way to mail the supplies in the coming weeks. I will keep these boxes out until the end of February. According to several hospitals in WuHan, the most urgently needed supplies include:
Ann Wu – BHS student
Career events outside of BHS…..
** AI4ALL is a national organization that seeks to increase diversity and inclusion in the field of Artificial Intelligence. They host summer programs at universities nationwide. Through the alumni change makers program, I will be hosting a Women in AI event which consists of a mentor panel where we can hear from women working in AI. We are inviting young women in high school to come to meet and network with women in AI and also learn about this great summer program where they can get hands-on learning with AI. Lunch will also be served. The event is on Saturday, February 29th from 10:30 am-1 pm at Boston University's Life Science and Engineering Building Rm 103.
See the attached flyer for more information. Please note that, if you are registered to take the PreACT at BHS, this event conflicts with this mentor panel.
** The spring “Is Accounting for Me?” High School conference is coming soon!
Date: March 6, 2020
Location: Suffolk University
1st Floor Function Room for Welcome/Breakfast: 8:30am
Join us to for a day of exploring the accounting profession!
New this year, students will have the opportunity to participate in technology break-out sessions to understand how cutting edge technological advances are affecting the accounting profession and being used by CPAs in their day to day career. Students will have the opportunity to learn about blockchain, data visualization, bots, and virtual reality (and try out some virtual reality goggles!)
The event includes:
* Interactive activities;
• Panel discussions with accounting professionals;
• Technology demo break-out sessions
• A networking lunch with students and CPA practitioners
• An optional tour of the campus
These conferences are appropriate for high-performing sophomores, juniors and seniors who are considering studying accounting or business at the college level. Students may come unchaperoned.
REGISTER TODAY!
The ACE Program is currently accepting applications for entrance for next Sept 2020. Applications are due no later than Friday, March 6th. Launched in 2015, ACE is an innovative, competency-based program at Brookline High School for55 students who choose to be in a smaller educational setting where they can move at their own pace and engage in project-based and experiential learning. ACE provides a rigorous college-preparation pathway in which students are placed in multi-age classes based on their skill levels, can progress at their own pace and graduate with a Brookline High School diploma when they complete their content and skill competencies. Students can also pursue internships for academic credit and take college classes through dual enrollment programs while still in high school. ACE Parent Information Night on Tuesday, February 25th from 6:00-7:30pm in the MLK Room. ACE Student Information Meetings and classroom visits will be held throughout the month of February. Students should email ACE Secretary, Christine_Carruthers@psbma.org to schedule a time to attend one.
It's time to think about your summer plans!
Please see the attached info sheet for many ideas (updated 1/17/20). Note that programs listed here are not all inclusive and do not suggest that Brookline High specifically endorses any program. Remember to read the intro at the top of the info sheet. See your counselor for more feedback or questions!
Some suggested summer pre-college opportunities with financial aid available - http://blog.collegegreenlight.com/blog/summer-pre-college-programs-2019/
Please note that attending a pre-college program at any particular college does not usually offer any special consideration during future admissions at that school.
Bill of Rights Institute sponsors the 2019-2020 We the Students Essay Prompt - What does civil discourse mean to you? DEADLINE APRIL 15, 2020 - Civil discourse is a concept that goes beyond a simple dictionary definition, and understanding it involves a combination of personal experience and ‘big ideas.’ Perhaps it is something you recognize from an occurrence in your own life. Maybe you can easily recognize when it is missing. Differing perspectives are a key part of learning, of democracies, and of civil society. For this essay, we ask you not only share your comprehension of what civil discourse is meant to be but to also relate what it looks like when it works – and when it doesn’t – and why. Perhaps you will choose to include mention of a time when you, yourself, were part of an exchange intended to understand something – how did you go about it? We encourage you to bring emotion, creativity, specific examples (including current events), and well-researched facts into what you write. A good essay will demonstrate how civil discourse is not just an abstract idea, but is, in fact, action inspired by constitutional principles, and demonstrated through civic virtues. We want to know what you think civil discourse truly means.
The winners of this year’s contest will receive:
1st Place – $7,500 and a scholarship to our 2020 Constitutional Academy in Washington, D.C.Runners Up – 5 prizes at $1,500 eachHonorable Mentions – 8 prizes at $500 eachhttps://billofrightsinstitute.org/engage/students-programs-events/scholarship/we-the-students-rules-and-regluations/
UPDATED BHS Clubs/Organizations Info for students:
Interested in Medicine? Come to Medical Club in room 343 - Meets X Block in Week A Only.
- Talks by health professionals who will speak about their field in medicine that will provide information like: what's it like to be a doctor, information about their certain field, what medical school is like, and what you need to do in order to accomplish your dreams!
- Fundraisers!
- Hosting events as a club for the school
- Field Trips**
- Snacks will be provided!
This is a great way to explore your passion for medicine! Want to be added to the email list for updates? Email: 22katwag@brooklinek12.org
Lunch Lounge happens ALL LUNCHES EVERY WEEKDAY in Room 277 at the 115 campus.
The OLS Lunch Lounge will be having a pizza party in Lunch Lounge on the Wednesday returning from break (2/26). OLS Lunch Lounge takes place in the Fireplace Room – please enter through the OLS Clinic.
Both alternative lunch spaces offer a place for fun conversation, a board game competition, or having a quiet lunch. BRING YOUR OWN LUNCH. Any student can join for one lunch lounge or become a regular.
SENIORS
Parents of Seniors – helpful quick article from Grown and Flown online site to consider -
https://grownandflown.com/advice-parents-high-school-seniors/
Applications are available online at the BHS homepage under 2020 BHS Scholarship Application. The deadline for applying for BHS scholarships for students attending ANY OTHER college is April 1. To make fair decisions, the Committee requires that families fill out the CSS Profile financial aid form, available at CollegeBoard.com. Please use code #0424
Although over 83% of the BHS Class of 2020 has applied to college as of 2/9/20, there are still seniors working on their post- high school plan. There are many 4 year colleges still accepting applications or considering other post high school options, so see your counselor, Mr Libenzon/BHS College Counselor, or Ms (Cordner)Kennedy/ BHS Career Counselor for support.
Thinking about an alternative plan to 4 year college? You are not alone! Almost 10% of last year’s BHS graduates planned to attend a 2 year technical or community college, work full time, or considered the military. Please see Kate Cordner Kennedy, the BHS Career Counselor in Room 279 or 280 for more info. If she is not available when you stop by (since she is also working with 9th graders at the OLS campus), please leave her a note!
SENIORS AND JUNIORS
Who requires Subject Tests? Not many colleges anymore - See this link from the Compass Prep list with required and recommend subject test schools, just updated on Thursday morning 2/6:
https://www.compassprep.com/subject-test-requirements-and-recommendations/
Talk to your counselor or Lenny Libenzon, BHS College Counselor for more information and advice.
Be Aware of Financial Aid/Scholarship Support Scams! You should not need to pay a consultant or organization to complete forms or learn about aid and scholarships. The attached letter has been sent out to various BHS students/families and we do NOT recommend this support. Contact MEFA (MA Educational Financing Authority) or use websites like Fastweb.com for FREE help!
Post Secondary Fair for Students Who Learn Differently – Landmark School/ Alice Ansara Athletic Center, 447 Hale Street, Prides Crossing, MA on Thurs - March 26, 2020 from 6-8pm. Attendees will meet representatives from college and university admissions and student support services, gap year programs, technical schools,
and other non-traditional options –High school students, parents, guardians, guidance counselors, and educators are all encouraged to attend.
SENIORS, JUNIORS, and SOPHOMORE FEMALES
Summer 2020 STEM Sampler Workshops at MassBay Community College - MassBay Community College is excited to offer the Summer 2020 STEM Sampler Workshops for *underserved female (*underserved-Must be one of the following: Eligible for free or reduced lunch, will be the first in their family to attend college, or are under-represented in college admissions) high school students who identify as female. The workshops are a five-day exploratory in Science (biotechnology lab work), Technology (robotics and web design), Engineering (engineering design), and Math (interactive, contextualized in STEM). Preference will be given to rising juniors and seniors, and graduating seniors. Program dates are July 13th-17th, 2020; 9AM-3PM at the MassBay Wellesley Hills campus. This program is FREE and funded through STEM Starter Academy. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://www.massbay.edu/stem-summer-sampler
JUNIORS
Thanks to all juniors and their parents-caretakers who attended the 2/12/20 Junior Night. Some of the BHS guidance counselors and Lenny Libenzon, BHS College Counselor, presented information about post high school planning with a focus on the college search and application process. Please see the powerpoint here: http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/guidance/junior-parent-student-night
Most handouts attached.
FINAL REMINDER - Kaplan Test Prep will offer a free combination ACT/SAT Practice Test this Tues Feb 25 from 2:45-5:45pm in the BHS Cafe. The Combo Practice Test is a great opportunity for students to get a feel for each of the tests and the environment of test day. In addition, it will give students experience on each section of the SAT and the ACT, allow them to receive their scores immediately after completing the test so that they will leave the event knowing exactly how they performed and where they will need to focus their test preparation, and help them to know which test is the right exam for them to take for college admission.
To register for this practice combo test go to kaptest.com/class/SKRB200003
Or call 1.800.KAPTEST (1.800.527.8378) and use event code: SKRB200003.
Your student MUST be pre-registered in order to take the ACT/SAT Practice Test.
Please note that BHS does not specifically promote any outside testing prep companies, but appreciates their information sharing for these events.
Mark your calendars now for the next evening event for juniors and their parents/caregivers:
- Thursday, March 19 – BHS College Fair, 6:30-8:30pm, Cafe
Your Naviance account has been updated with your GPA and your assigned counselor for this school year. Please check that it is correct. If you do not remember your Naviance login, talk to your counselor or email Mr. Libenzon (lenny_libenzon@psbma.org)
Junior Seminars Round 2 have started in advisories on Monday Feb 10 through early March. Seminar Round 3 is scheduled during ELA MCAS mornings in later March. Be sure to attend your advisory to get the most updated information from your counselor.
Starting to research colleges? Wondering how to use Naviance for college searches? Wondering whether to take the SAT, ACT, or go test-optional? Thinking about when you should take these tests?
Make an appointment with your counselor (email or leave a note, if needed) OR see Mr Libenzon, BHS College Counselor, in College-Career Center 279 or office 280.
College Admissions Testing Prep suggestions:
** BHS Librarians are offering FREE online test prep tutorials every Thurs after school from 3-4pm in the Library. See attached flyer
** SAT? Go to Kahn Academy on the College Board website for specific help related to your individualizes PSAT score results… and it’s free!
ACT? Check out the ACT Academy on their website.
SOPHOMORES and JUNIORS
IMPORTANT - PreACT at BHS is happening this Saturday 2/29 from 7:45-11:30am. The registration period has ended. All registered 10th and 11th graders should report to the BHS Clinic by 7:45 a.m. and bring a school or current picture ID, 3 #2 pencils, and a calculator for math – act.org/theact/calculator (although calculator not required). NO phones/devices allowed. Students with approved special testing accommodations will be testing on Saturday 2/29 as well and will be getting a separate email in the next few days with more details.
Choosing College: Ask the Right Questions to Help Your Teen Make the Best Choices for College and Beyond - Join the Greater Boston College Resource Collaborative (CRCBoston) and The Brookline Teen Center on Wednesday 2/26 at 7pm for an evening with Michael Horn, author of the book, Choosing College. Michael will dispel the myth that the best college for your teen is one ranked highest in the US News and World Report. He will share an alternative approach that centers on identifying your students’ motivations. Students who pick the right schools “for them” will transition to college easier and experience greater success while there. Michael will also offer tips to parents about how to support their teens with meaningful, productive, values-based conversations throughout the college process. Our event will conclude with Q & A. We encourage students to attend with their parents so they can continue the dialogue at home.
Michael holds a BA in history from Yale University and an MBA from the Harvard Business School. He serves as the head of strategy for the Entangled Group, an education venture studio, and as a senior partner for Entangled Solutions, a strategy consultancy for the education ecosystem. He is also the co-founder of and a distinguished fellow at the Clayton Christensen Institute for Disruptive Innovation, a non-profit think tank. Michael is the author and coauthor of multiple books, white papers, and articles on education, including the award-winning book Disrupting Class: How Disruptive Innovation Will Change the Way the World Learns and the Amazon-bestseller Blended: Using Disruptive Innovation to Improve Schools.
2020 Post-Secondary Fair, for students who learn differently - attendees will meet representatives from college and university admissions and student support services, gap year programs, technical schools, and other non-traditional options.
"[The fair] was incredible! Both my daughter and I left feeling less stressed and better prepared to make a college list. We even started to plan our trips/visits." -2019 parent attendee
Save the date for Thursday, March 26, 2020, 6-8 p.m.
447 Hale Street, Prides Crossing, MA
Landmark School Alice Ansara Athletic Center
This event is FREE and open to the public.
High school students, parents, guardians, guidance counselors, and educators are all encouraged to attend.
9th GRADERS
The OLS Lunch Lounge will be having a pizza party in Lunch Lounge on the Wednesday returning from break (2/26). OLS Lunch Lounge takes place in the Fireplace Room – please enter through the OLS Clinic.
Please note –Updates are highlighted in BLUE for quick review.
The goals of the BHS Counseling/Guidance department and the school community overall is to encourage students to try their best in school while keeping their stress levels to a healthy level. If you are ever concerned about your student, please reach out to your student’s assigned school counselor.
The new 2020-21 Brookline High Course Catalog is here! http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/uploads/8/0/1/5/801512/bhscat_20_21_final.pdf
Check out the incredible amount of offerings in many areas for electives and wellness courses. See you counselor if you have any questions. Keep in mind the required BHS course credits needed for graduation and talk with your parents-caretakers about the best course load balance for you. The student portal will be open from March 3-24 for all Gr 9-11 BHS students to upload their elective and wellness course selections. Be sure you can access your portal now!
Here are the directions to help you- Aspen Student Portal:
* Username: Year of graduation, last name, first initial e.g. “19smithr”
* Password: the same as your google account and student wifi
* Video Course Registration on X2
Please read the article below on the relevance of trade careers for many young people, including some of our Brookline High students-
https://www.familycircle.com/teen/teens-need-know-they-can-make-money-trade-careers/?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=social-share-article&utm_content=20200108
Suicide is a scary topic but we need to continue to be aware of our teenagers’ mental health needs. Please read the short article here:
https://yourteenmag.com/health/teenager-mental-health/suicide-rates-are-rising
If you are worried about your student’s mental health (or a student is worried about their friend/family member), please contact one of the school counselors for support and resources both in BHS and in the greater community. Never worry alone!
This is WEEK A schedule
Brookline SEPAC and COBAP (Coalition of Brookline Autism Parents) is sponsoring a FREE screening of the documentary Autism Goes To College on March 5, 7 pm, VFW Building, 386 Washington St.
Autism Goes to College is a first of its kind film, packed with honest insights for student, parents and educators offering an eye-opening look at what a growing number of neurodiverse students are bringing to campus. From deciding which school will be the best fit, to interactions with professors and peers, facing roommate situations, handling money, homesickness, finding work, overcoming setbacks, staying on track to graduate– these students come up against aspects of college life students typically encounter. See attached flyer for more information
Brookline Commission for Women - 2020 “A Woman Who Inspires Me” Essay Contest
In celebration of National Women’s History Month, the Brookline Commission for Women is pleased to sponsor its 28th annual student essay contest to honor the women who inspire us most. To participate in the contest, we invite students living or attending school in Brookline, Grades 3–12, to write and submit an essay of no more than 500 words about a woman who is important to you and why and how she inspires you. She can be your doctor, caregiver, neighbor, friend, mother, aunt, teacher, etc. – remember, sometimes “ordinary” people can be extraordinary to you!
When writing your essay, please follow these rules:
Who is Eligible: You must be in the 3rd-12th grade (or, if home-schooled, between 10–18 years of age), live in Brookline, or attend school in Brookline.
The Essay:
1) Your essay should be no more than 500 words.
2) Your essay can be typed or hand-written and should use correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
3) The person you write about must be someone you know personally and who is currently living.
DON’T FORGET TO TELL US THE NAME OF THE PERSON IN YOUR ESSAY!
Deadline: All essays must be submitted (using the online form) by midnight on Friday, February 28, 2020.
Form available at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/56R95T2
Awards will be given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place essays in each of three groups (grades 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12).
SAVE THE DATE for the AWARD CEREMONY: Wednesday, March 25th at 6 p.m. in Hunneman Hall, Brookline Public Library. At the Women Who Inspire Us event on March 25th, we will recognize all essay contest winners, and 1st-place winners will read their essays aloud. At the same event, we will honor Brookline’s 2020 Woman of the Year recipient.
Questions? Please email any questions about the Student Essay Contest to the Brookline Commission for Women at estillman@suffolk.edu
Brookline Community Service Opportunty!
A collaboration between Center Communities of Brookline and Wentworth Institute of Technology offers a chance for BHS students to participate in service to others and get community service credit. Details here:
Every other year, Brookline community partners join Center Communities of Brookline (the event sponsor) to organize a Senior Health Fair. This year’s event will be the 2020 Health Expo with a focus on Technology - innovations, resources and opportunities to support older adults. With an aging population growing faster than ever before, opportunities to highlight and demonstrate innovations for sight, sound, mobility, connectivity and transportation offer such a resoundingly positive experience for older adults in Brookline, as well as those families with older loved ones.
There may be an opportunity for 10 BHS students come to Wentworth (sometime in March) for a workshop and lunch with their students from different disciplines and attend the June 4 Expo to interact with the other Expo attendees. Any interested students should check in with Ms Lisa Gaffney, the BHS Community Service Coordinator, in Room 161.
Coronavirus Information and Medical Supply Drive:
BHS Clinic Update re Coronavirus – PSB school health services will continue to stay informed of updates regarding the coronavirus. We work collaboratively with the Brookline health department, and the state health department, as well as listen to CDC conference calls when they are given, and daily review the CDC website for updates. Our schools continue to follow the guidelines given by the CDC, whose main goal is to protect public health and safety.
While the coronavirus continues to be a rapidly evolving situation, the CDC and DPH state that the risk to Massachusetts residents remains low at this time.
We can all do to help prevent colds and the flu can help protect us against other respiratory viruses as well:
** Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds
** Cover your coughs and sneezes
** Stay home if you are sick
Medical Supply Drive Information:
I am a senior at BHS and from the WuHan community in China. As you know, this is a very serious situation and my relatives there have expressed the importance of having more access to face masks and other medical supplies. As a result, I am launching a collection of medical supplies on Tuesday, February 4th by putting collection boxes in several key locations within BHS (including the atrium, the cafeteria, and next to the library). I have contacted the Harvard Medical School Chinese Student Association who are working with me to guarantee a way to mail the supplies in the coming weeks. I will keep these boxes out until the end of February. According to several hospitals in WuHan, the most urgently needed supplies include:
- 3M N95 masks (serial #1860/1860s/1870) that have a Fluid Resistant Claim and an Airless valve
- Medical Safety Goggles / Protective Eye gear (must cover the whole face)
- Medical disposable latex gloves
- Medical protective clothing （must meet Level 4 Biohazard Laboratory requirement)
Ann Wu – BHS student
Career events outside of BHS…..
** AI4ALL is a national organization that seeks to increase diversity and inclusion in the field of Artificial Intelligence. They host summer programs at universities nationwide. Through the alumni change makers program, I will be hosting a Women in AI event which consists of a mentor panel where we can hear from women working in AI. We are inviting young women in high school to come to meet and network with women in AI and also learn about this great summer program where they can get hands-on learning with AI. Lunch will also be served. The event is on Saturday, February 29th from 10:30 am-1 pm at Boston University's Life Science and Engineering Building Rm 103.
See the attached flyer for more information. Please note that, if you are registered to take the PreACT at BHS, this event conflicts with this mentor panel.
** The spring “Is Accounting for Me?” High School conference is coming soon!
Date: March 6, 2020
Location: Suffolk University
1st Floor Function Room for Welcome/Breakfast: 8:30am
Join us to for a day of exploring the accounting profession!
New this year, students will have the opportunity to participate in technology break-out sessions to understand how cutting edge technological advances are affecting the accounting profession and being used by CPAs in their day to day career. Students will have the opportunity to learn about blockchain, data visualization, bots, and virtual reality (and try out some virtual reality goggles!)
The event includes:
* Interactive activities;
• Panel discussions with accounting professionals;
• Technology demo break-out sessions
• A networking lunch with students and CPA practitioners
• An optional tour of the campus
These conferences are appropriate for high-performing sophomores, juniors and seniors who are considering studying accounting or business at the college level. Students may come unchaperoned.
REGISTER TODAY!
The ACE Program is currently accepting applications for entrance for next Sept 2020. Applications are due no later than Friday, March 6th. Launched in 2015, ACE is an innovative, competency-based program at Brookline High School for55 students who choose to be in a smaller educational setting where they can move at their own pace and engage in project-based and experiential learning. ACE provides a rigorous college-preparation pathway in which students are placed in multi-age classes based on their skill levels, can progress at their own pace and graduate with a Brookline High School diploma when they complete their content and skill competencies. Students can also pursue internships for academic credit and take college classes through dual enrollment programs while still in high school. ACE Parent Information Night on Tuesday, February 25th from 6:00-7:30pm in the MLK Room. ACE Student Information Meetings and classroom visits will be held throughout the month of February. Students should email ACE Secretary, Christine_Carruthers@psbma.org to schedule a time to attend one.
It's time to think about your summer plans!
Please see the attached info sheet for many ideas (updated 1/17/20). Note that programs listed here are not all inclusive and do not suggest that Brookline High specifically endorses any program. Remember to read the intro at the top of the info sheet. See your counselor for more feedback or questions!
Some suggested summer pre-college opportunities with financial aid available - http://blog.collegegreenlight.com/blog/summer-pre-college-programs-2019/
Please note that attending a pre-college program at any particular college does not usually offer any special consideration during future admissions at that school.
Bill of Rights Institute sponsors the 2019-2020 We the Students Essay Prompt - What does civil discourse mean to you? DEADLINE APRIL 15, 2020 - Civil discourse is a concept that goes beyond a simple dictionary definition, and understanding it involves a combination of personal experience and ‘big ideas.’ Perhaps it is something you recognize from an occurrence in your own life. Maybe you can easily recognize when it is missing. Differing perspectives are a key part of learning, of democracies, and of civil society. For this essay, we ask you not only share your comprehension of what civil discourse is meant to be but to also relate what it looks like when it works – and when it doesn’t – and why. Perhaps you will choose to include mention of a time when you, yourself, were part of an exchange intended to understand something – how did you go about it? We encourage you to bring emotion, creativity, specific examples (including current events), and well-researched facts into what you write. A good essay will demonstrate how civil discourse is not just an abstract idea, but is, in fact, action inspired by constitutional principles, and demonstrated through civic virtues. We want to know what you think civil discourse truly means.
The winners of this year’s contest will receive:
1st Place – $7,500 and a scholarship to our 2020 Constitutional Academy in Washington, D.C.Runners Up – 5 prizes at $1,500 eachHonorable Mentions – 8 prizes at $500 eachhttps://billofrightsinstitute.org/engage/students-programs-events/scholarship/we-the-students-rules-and-regluations/
UPDATED BHS Clubs/Organizations Info for students:
Interested in Medicine? Come to Medical Club in room 343 - Meets X Block in Week A Only.
- Talks by health professionals who will speak about their field in medicine that will provide information like: what's it like to be a doctor, information about their certain field, what medical school is like, and what you need to do in order to accomplish your dreams!
- Fundraisers!
- Hosting events as a club for the school
- Field Trips**
- Snacks will be provided!
This is a great way to explore your passion for medicine! Want to be added to the email list for updates? Email: 22katwag@brooklinek12.org
Lunch Lounge happens ALL LUNCHES EVERY WEEKDAY in Room 277 at the 115 campus.
The OLS Lunch Lounge will be having a pizza party in Lunch Lounge on the Wednesday returning from break (2/26). OLS Lunch Lounge takes place in the Fireplace Room – please enter through the OLS Clinic.
Both alternative lunch spaces offer a place for fun conversation, a board game competition, or having a quiet lunch. BRING YOUR OWN LUNCH. Any student can join for one lunch lounge or become a regular.
SENIORS
Parents of Seniors – helpful quick article from Grown and Flown online site to consider -
https://grownandflown.com/advice-parents-high-school-seniors/
Applications are available online at the BHS homepage under 2020 BHS Scholarship Application. The deadline for applying for BHS scholarships for students attending ANY OTHER college is April 1. To make fair decisions, the Committee requires that families fill out the CSS Profile financial aid form, available at CollegeBoard.com. Please use code #0424
Although over 83% of the BHS Class of 2020 has applied to college as of 2/9/20, there are still seniors working on their post- high school plan. There are many 4 year colleges still accepting applications or considering other post high school options, so see your counselor, Mr Libenzon/BHS College Counselor, or Ms (Cordner)Kennedy/ BHS Career Counselor for support.
Thinking about an alternative plan to 4 year college? You are not alone! Almost 10% of last year’s BHS graduates planned to attend a 2 year technical or community college, work full time, or considered the military. Please see Kate Cordner Kennedy, the BHS Career Counselor in Room 279 or 280 for more info. If she is not available when you stop by (since she is also working with 9th graders at the OLS campus), please leave her a note!
SENIORS AND JUNIORS
Who requires Subject Tests? Not many colleges anymore - See this link from the Compass Prep list with required and recommend subject test schools, just updated on Thursday morning 2/6:
https://www.compassprep.com/subject-test-requirements-and-recommendations/
Talk to your counselor or Lenny Libenzon, BHS College Counselor for more information and advice.
Be Aware of Financial Aid/Scholarship Support Scams! You should not need to pay a consultant or organization to complete forms or learn about aid and scholarships. The attached letter has been sent out to various BHS students/families and we do NOT recommend this support. Contact MEFA (MA Educational Financing Authority) or use websites like Fastweb.com for FREE help!
Post Secondary Fair for Students Who Learn Differently – Landmark School/ Alice Ansara Athletic Center, 447 Hale Street, Prides Crossing, MA on Thurs - March 26, 2020 from 6-8pm. Attendees will meet representatives from college and university admissions and student support services, gap year programs, technical schools,
and other non-traditional options –High school students, parents, guardians, guidance counselors, and educators are all encouraged to attend.
SENIORS, JUNIORS, and SOPHOMORE FEMALES
Summer 2020 STEM Sampler Workshops at MassBay Community College - MassBay Community College is excited to offer the Summer 2020 STEM Sampler Workshops for *underserved female (*underserved-Must be one of the following: Eligible for free or reduced lunch, will be the first in their family to attend college, or are under-represented in college admissions) high school students who identify as female. The workshops are a five-day exploratory in Science (biotechnology lab work), Technology (robotics and web design), Engineering (engineering design), and Math (interactive, contextualized in STEM). Preference will be given to rising juniors and seniors, and graduating seniors. Program dates are July 13th-17th, 2020; 9AM-3PM at the MassBay Wellesley Hills campus. This program is FREE and funded through STEM Starter Academy. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://www.massbay.edu/stem-summer-sampler
JUNIORS
Thanks to all juniors and their parents-caretakers who attended the 2/12/20 Junior Night. Some of the BHS guidance counselors and Lenny Libenzon, BHS College Counselor, presented information about post high school planning with a focus on the college search and application process. Please see the powerpoint here: http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/guidance/junior-parent-student-night
Most handouts attached.
FINAL REMINDER - Kaplan Test Prep will offer a free combination ACT/SAT Practice Test this Tues Feb 25 from 2:45-5:45pm in the BHS Cafe. The Combo Practice Test is a great opportunity for students to get a feel for each of the tests and the environment of test day. In addition, it will give students experience on each section of the SAT and the ACT, allow them to receive their scores immediately after completing the test so that they will leave the event knowing exactly how they performed and where they will need to focus their test preparation, and help them to know which test is the right exam for them to take for college admission.
To register for this practice combo test go to kaptest.com/class/SKRB200003
Or call 1.800.KAPTEST (1.800.527.8378) and use event code: SKRB200003.
Your student MUST be pre-registered in order to take the ACT/SAT Practice Test.
Please note that BHS does not specifically promote any outside testing prep companies, but appreciates their information sharing for these events.
Mark your calendars now for the next evening event for juniors and their parents/caregivers:
- Thursday, March 19 – BHS College Fair, 6:30-8:30pm, Cafe
Your Naviance account has been updated with your GPA and your assigned counselor for this school year. Please check that it is correct. If you do not remember your Naviance login, talk to your counselor or email Mr. Libenzon (lenny_libenzon@psbma.org)
Junior Seminars Round 2 have started in advisories on Monday Feb 10 through early March. Seminar Round 3 is scheduled during ELA MCAS mornings in later March. Be sure to attend your advisory to get the most updated information from your counselor.
Starting to research colleges? Wondering how to use Naviance for college searches? Wondering whether to take the SAT, ACT, or go test-optional? Thinking about when you should take these tests?
Make an appointment with your counselor (email or leave a note, if needed) OR see Mr Libenzon, BHS College Counselor, in College-Career Center 279 or office 280.
College Admissions Testing Prep suggestions:
** BHS Librarians are offering FREE online test prep tutorials every Thurs after school from 3-4pm in the Library. See attached flyer
** SAT? Go to Kahn Academy on the College Board website for specific help related to your individualizes PSAT score results… and it’s free!
ACT? Check out the ACT Academy on their website.
SOPHOMORES and JUNIORS
IMPORTANT - PreACT at BHS is happening this Saturday 2/29 from 7:45-11:30am. The registration period has ended. All registered 10th and 11th graders should report to the BHS Clinic by 7:45 a.m. and bring a school or current picture ID, 3 #2 pencils, and a calculator for math – act.org/theact/calculator (although calculator not required). NO phones/devices allowed. Students with approved special testing accommodations will be testing on Saturday 2/29 as well and will be getting a separate email in the next few days with more details.
Choosing College: Ask the Right Questions to Help Your Teen Make the Best Choices for College and Beyond - Join the Greater Boston College Resource Collaborative (CRCBoston) and The Brookline Teen Center on Wednesday 2/26 at 7pm for an evening with Michael Horn, author of the book, Choosing College. Michael will dispel the myth that the best college for your teen is one ranked highest in the US News and World Report. He will share an alternative approach that centers on identifying your students’ motivations. Students who pick the right schools “for them” will transition to college easier and experience greater success while there. Michael will also offer tips to parents about how to support their teens with meaningful, productive, values-based conversations throughout the college process. Our event will conclude with Q & A. We encourage students to attend with their parents so they can continue the dialogue at home.
Michael holds a BA in history from Yale University and an MBA from the Harvard Business School. He serves as the head of strategy for the Entangled Group, an education venture studio, and as a senior partner for Entangled Solutions, a strategy consultancy for the education ecosystem. He is also the co-founder of and a distinguished fellow at the Clayton Christensen Institute for Disruptive Innovation, a non-profit think tank. Michael is the author and coauthor of multiple books, white papers, and articles on education, including the award-winning book Disrupting Class: How Disruptive Innovation Will Change the Way the World Learns and the Amazon-bestseller Blended: Using Disruptive Innovation to Improve Schools.
2020 Post-Secondary Fair, for students who learn differently - attendees will meet representatives from college and university admissions and student support services, gap year programs, technical schools, and other non-traditional options.
"[The fair] was incredible! Both my daughter and I left feeling less stressed and better prepared to make a college list. We even started to plan our trips/visits." -2019 parent attendee
Save the date for Thursday, March 26, 2020, 6-8 p.m.
447 Hale Street, Prides Crossing, MA
Landmark School Alice Ansara Athletic Center
This event is FREE and open to the public.
High school students, parents, guardians, guidance counselors, and educators are all encouraged to attend.
9th GRADERS
The OLS Lunch Lounge will be having a pizza party in Lunch Lounge on the Wednesday returning from break (2/26). OLS Lunch Lounge takes place in the Fireplace Room – please enter through the OLS Clinic.