BHS Spirit Week!
The BHS Cheerleading Team is facilitating a Spirit Week next week! This year has been stressful (to say the least) and we've missed out on some of the fun that we typically have in a regular year. The Cheer Team decided to host a Spirit Week to give us a way to come together as a school, have a bit of fun together, and build some new traditions! We will be putting up posters in 115 and OLS, but would love to have both remote and in-person students and staff participate!
See the attached flyer for themes for each day this week and have fun!
No special schedule this week.
April Break – April 19-23
New schedule and no more remote Wednesdays starting after April vacation on Monday 4/26. Schedule to be shared soon!
The BHS Cheerleading Team is facilitating a Spirit Week next week! This year has been stressful (to say the least) and we've missed out on some of the fun that we typically have in a regular year. The Cheer Team decided to host a Spirit Week to give us a way to come together as a school, have a bit of fun together, and build some new traditions! We will be putting up posters in 115 and OLS, but would love to have both remote and in-person students and staff participate!
See the attached flyer for themes for each day this week and have fun!
No special schedule this week.
April Break – April 19-23
New schedule and no more remote Wednesdays starting after April vacation on Monday 4/26. Schedule to be shared soon!
ALL STUDENTS
Recently, the T closed down Brookline Hills stop due to accessibility improvements and the 9th Grade Expansion Project and no shuttle buses, excluding weekends. A BHS student created has created a google form below so he can try to advocate with the T for a bus shuttle since there are very limited options for public transportation in that area.
https://forms.gle/7wjuHFf2EEb8oFhU7
Please join BHS poets tomorrow night at 7 pm for the 26th Annual Poetry Fest.
The Zoom link for the event:
https://psbma-org.zoom.us/j/7948398623
BHS Library Hours for the remainder of the school year:
Monday 8-4:00
Tuesday 8-3:00
Wednesday 8-1:00 (starting after break)
Thursday 8-4:00
Friday 8-3:00
Students should reserve a seat in the library, in advance, at this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4badae2ea3face9-weekly
An organization called Take The Lead Boston is offering this opportunity - 2020 Take the Lead Career Summit that will be held virtually on April 14th, from 5pm – 7pm (EST). This Career Summit will provide an opportunity for young professionals to hear from and network with current employees from the Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, Red Sox, Revolution and the Boston Pride about how we are all working together to emphasize the importance of a diverse and accepting environment in the workplace. Allison Feaster, Boston Celtics Vice President of Player Development and Organizational Growth will be our keynote speaker and her bio is attached. In addition, attendees will learn more about careers in the professional sports and entertainment industry and through the power of Zoom breakout rooms they will have the chance to network with front office members from each of the teams. Go to www.taketheleadboston.org for the registration link and the registration code of TTL2021 (18+ please). Registration is FREE.
Virtual Career Month has begun!
BHS Guidance Dept and BHS Career Counselor Kate Kennedy and team are offering interesting career panels every X block to students! These events will continue during X blocks from April 13 to May 14th. Panels of individuals will share their career journeys within specific career clusters (see table below). Use this opportunity to network, learn about different careers, and explore careers you are interested in pursuing! Come to one or come to all of them! Questions? Email BHS Career Counselor Kate Kennedy at [email protected].
If you missed the panels on Law/Public Safety and Marketing/Sales/Service last week – go to the BHS Career Counseling section of the Guidance website- http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/career-counseling1.html - to see the recordings and get more information on any future BHS Virtual Career Month panels, plus previous 2020-21 Career Coffee Talk panels or the Resume Writing webinar.
To sign up for any panel please complete this google form link- (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdj2sidyBbzQRVic_FeMr1SJQY8Gp0KBx6HXtVgrLnUvBU1Dw/viewform) and indicate all the panels you would like to attend. You will get an email 1 week before the panel. Examples of some (but not all) careers are listed under each career cluster category below:
Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources (Farmers, Water resource specialists, environmental engineers)
Hospitality & Tourism (Bartenders, cooks, travel agents)
Architecture & Construction Arts (Carpenters, electricians, architects)
Human Services (Psychologists, social workers, barbers)
Audio/Video Technology & Communications (film and video editors, actors, graphic designers)
Information Technology (video game designers, web developers, computer programmer)
Business, Management & Administration (human resources, facilities managers, project management)
Education & Training (Teachers, coaches)
Manufacturing (woodworkers, chemical technicians, locksmiths)
Finance (accountants, insurance sales, loan officers)
Marketing, Sales & Service (real estate agents, telemarketers, models)
Government & Public Administration (Legislators, national security, building inspectors)
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (Physicists, mechanical engineers, automotive engineers)
Health Science (Biomedical engineers, Dentists, doctors)
Transportation, Distribution & Logistics (air traffic controllers, truck drivers, dispatchers)
Thinking about a summer job? Check out the BHS Career Website – http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/career-counseling and/or contact BHS Career Counselor Kate Kennedy directly at [email protected]. Here is one opportunity:
- The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation is still seeking qualified swimmers of all ages to watch over the state's oceans, lakes and pools this summer. If you know anyone that would be interested in pursuing a lifeguarding opportunity this summer, please invite them to apply online at www.masslifeguard.com. Applicants must be able to meet state swim requirements and must be 16 years old by date of hire.
There is a science help center at BHS run by peer tutors. Feel free to stop by if you need help in your science classes, or want to ask a quick question.
Science help center times: Tuesday's X-Block, Wednesdays afterschool (12:15-1:00), and Friday's X-Block.
Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/s/95851906783?pwd=cTBHUDRVTXBLVU1qb3RrVWVoTEFMUT09#success
Meeting ID: 958 5190 6783
Meeting Password: 7mKpKY
Please email [email protected] for any questions!
Are you interested in sharing your art with a supportive group of peers, or simply coming to enjoy other’s work? Look no further than SWS Art Show, Friday, April 16th at 6:30pm. Artists across the school will be able to auction, donate, or just share all of their hard work. The event is open to anyone interested in coming - - so come! Fill out this link to get involved, and email [email protected] for more information.
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.
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:
Join the Dance Marathon Club for a Spring Fair event April 25! For more information see the flyer attached to this email.
Sign up here: https://events.dancemarathon.com/event/dancemarathon
The Brookline High School Women in Entrepreneurship Club has partnered with Invest in Girls, a program of the Council for Economic Education, whose mission is to usher in the first generation of financially literate girls and change the way girls interact with money. Please consider joining one (or all!) of the Friday X block workshop sessions scheduled in April and May. Contact BHS Business teacher Kellie Griffin ([email protected]) to sign up. See attached flyer for more info.
COVID and Expanded Resources - From Mutual Aid Brookline
You can check out the Mutual Aid Brookline Facebook group for the latest.
- There is an official timeline for the remaining vaccine eligibility phases:
April 5th (this is Monday!): Residents 55+ and residents with one certain medical condition
April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older
- Eligible people should now pre-register for vaccine appointments at https://vaccinesignup.mass.gov/
- Fenway is closed as a vaccination site as of today, the 27th
- Hynes will be expanded with new support from FEMA (this means more available doses)
- You can use https://www.covidvaccinetexts.com/ (unofficial site) to get text alerts when appointments are posted at CVS and Walgreens locations
- You can use https://macovidvaxhelp.com/ (unofficial site) to either sign up for help making your appointment or sign up to help others!
Public Charge Rule Update - Ongoing - Project Bread
You can now apply for SNAP benefits with no risk to obtaining permanent legal residence! Call 1-800-645-8333 for assistance.
Ahora puede solicitar beneficios del SNAP sin arriesgar su capacidad para obtener residencia permanente! Llame al 1-800-645-8333.
211 COVID Vaccine Appointment Assistance Over the Phone - Ongoing - Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
A Vaccine Scheduling Resource Line helps 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 is staffed with over 500 representatives who can provide live phone support to assist residents with booking an appointment.
The line is 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.
There is a Brookline Vaccine Resource Hub call center! The call center is open from Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. until further notice. The number for the call center is 617-879-5636. Those who call after hours may leave a voicemail and their messages will be returned when the call center is open. Questions may also be submitted via email to [email protected].
There is also a Brookline vaccine FAQs page, which includes information about cost (yes, the vaccines will be free, and getting a vaccine will not impact immigration status): https://brooklinecovid19.com/vaccineFAQ/.
Expanded Services Available - Ongoing - Brookline Center
The Brookline Center's "Care Connections" program provides support for residents of Brookline who need assistance with public benefits, advocacy, care coordination, or referrals to community resources. You are not required to be a patient at the Brookline Center to use these services.
See the flyer here (and attached to this email): https://drive.google.com/file/d/13vUu55L-A2Oioq2z5LrEg1YieKV090oJ/view?usp=sharing.
To request assistance: https://bit.ly/3ckfb2h.
For questions about the referral process or other concerns contact [email protected] or 857-707-3471.
Summer Opportunities and Jobs:
Opportunities 2021 for BHS students– Summer is only 2 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 volunteer opportunities for BHS and the Brookline area:
Walk for Change - Sunday April 25th - Boston Area Rape Crisis Center
The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC) is a Greater Boston nonprofit organization for survivors of sexual violence & their loved ones. April is S.A.A.M - Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and on Sunday April 25th BARCC is hosting the Walk for Change - a virtual event to support survivors and raise funds. Register for the event here: https://barccwalk.org/ or use this form to contact one of the organizers: https://forms.gle/QYcuDrMtLiep8f318.
BARCC welcomes survivors of all genders and gender identities, including men and transgender and nonbinary people. They work with survivors of all races, religions, incomes, languages, abilities, ethnicities, and sexual orientations, and no matter their former or current engagement with sex work. They serve survivors regardless of immigration status. ALL of BARCC's services are free at all times. BARCC offers a 24/7 hotline [800-841-8371], medical advocacy, legal advocacy, counseling and support groups. https://barcc.org/
Try checking out this community service link from the free resource Teen Life - https://www.teenlife.com/category/volunteer/volunteer-boston/
SENIORS
Financial Aid Award Letters…. Be sure you know what those letters say!
Here are some definitions of various financial aid semantics - http://admitted.nacacnet.org/wordpress/index.php/2021/04/09/financial-aid-award-letters-8-things-to-consider/#more-4753
Trying to figure out the financial aid packages for colleges you’ve been accepted to? Look to MEFA (MA Educational Financing Authority) and view this video –
https://www.mefa.org/videos/family-webinar-series-after-college-acceptance
Still haven’t completed your FAFSA (Federal Financial Aid form) for college? It’s not too late! Attend this FAFSA Festival on April 24 for some help from experts MEFA – MA Educational Financing Authority – to get this critical step to supporting your college experience completed. See attached flyers in both English and Spanish for more info.
April BHS Scholarship Letter – See attached
If your child has not submitted the BHS Scholarship Application and CSS Profile but plans to do so, please submit it very soon. The application is easy to complete and is available here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdp0n0dznzcGGiZ12S8sfE57lyshVlD_DOKqlfyjz_2yK0l1w/viewform and online on the Brookline High School homepage. To make fair decisions, the Scholarship Committee requires that families fill out the CSS Profile financial aid form, available at CollegeBoard.com. Submit the CSS Profile to code 0424 (the Brookline Scholarship Fund) ASAP too. The last piece that will be required is your child's financial aid letter from the college they plan to attend. So, once that is decided, have them send Ms Whelan a screenshot/picture of their financial aid letter that college provides (or of their student portal page from the college that shows their financial aid info). Her email is [email protected]. We know that many students may not make this decision before May 1st.
Additional Note: The Scholarship Committee uses three criteria for choosing award recipients: academics, contributions and activities at BHS, and most importantly, unmet financial need. There are no merit scholarships per se given out through this program.
For Parents/ Caregivers of Seniors -
THE POST-BHS TRANSITION -- WHAT SENIOR PARENTS NEED TO KNOW
Thursday, April 29, 7 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87494337237?pwd=dkQ5c1hZOE5PdjdLRWkvbjYwaGJCUT09
Meeting ID: 874 9433 7237
Passcode: 0cuhkk
Whether your student is heading off to college or the military or staying close to home for a gap year or to work, their transition from high school life will be a big change.
The PTO and B-PEN present a special evening with guest speaker Dr. Anjini Virmani, BHS Social Worker Abby Dean, and some recent BHS grads, addressing this milestone from both parent and student perspectives. Current trends, safety tips, practical messaging regarding alcohol/drug use, and useful strategies for letting go while maintaining open communication will be covered. Dr. Virmani will share important information about dealing with college student medical needs away from home, including HIPAA health privacy guidelines and a “medical tool kit.”
Reminder Updates from Senior Deans Williams, Sudmyer, and Redding:
June 6th Graduation:
BHS Senior Deans Summer Williams, Ron Sudmyer and Lisa Redding are working with Hal Mason, Anthony Meyer, and many town and district leaders to create the best commencement experience within guidelines from the CDC, the Commonwealth, and the Town of Brookline. We are investigating several options, including an in-person ceremony, to give our Seniors a “walk across the stage” moment. As it stands, we have outdoor options on Sunday 6/6, our original commencement date. We will communicate directions and decisions in a more detailed manner soon, so please stay tuned. The Class of 2021 deserves a memorable graduation experience.
Celebratory Event:
Our Senior PTO members have begun meeting and welcoming volunteers to help plan a gathering for seniors. This group is also monitoring how other districts are organizing events as well. Parents/Caregivers who would like to volunteer to help plan, organize or otherwise contribute should contact our awesome PTO partners at [email protected].
Student Senior Steering Committee:
For Seniors who are interested in getting involved, please consider joining our Senior Steering Committee led by Dr. Erin Blette. The Committee is meeting this Friday, March 26, during X-block. Please email Dr. Blette for more information or to sign-up at [email protected].
Yearbooks:
The yearbook staff is working hard to create a book that we hope all will treasure. In order to create the best possible yearbook, we are extending our timeline. Unfortunately, this means that yearbooks will arrive in early July. We know that this may be disappointing and we hope that you can understand that we are doing our best under difficult circumstances. And some of us BHS leaders work throughout the summer so we will consider how to supervise and support a yearbook distribution and signing day even if it is in July.
We will send out more information and opportunities to contribute soon. For now, here are some important announcements.
· Yearbook and ad purchase deadlines are extended!
o April 16th - New deadline to buy a personalized yearbook - https://www.jostens.com/apps/store/productBrowse/1066230/Brookline-High-School/2021-Yearbook/20200929043335950135/CATALOG_SHOP/
o May 1st - Deadline to buy a non-personalized yearbook or donate a yearbook.
o May 1st - Deadline to purchase a yearbook ad - https://www.jostens.com/yearbooks/students-and-parents/yearbook-ads?utm_source=exacttarget&utm_medium=email&utm_term=All%20Subscribers&utm_content=YBK-ADS-Comp1-CTA-Button&utm_campaign=YBK_MER621381570_ADS_SENIOR_NONBUYER__20210317
· Students with free/reduced lunch (documented in Aspen/X2) may purchase yearbooks at a discounted price of $75. Payments must be made by check. Please make checks payable to Public Schools of Brookline and write the student's name in the memo. Checks can be dropped off at the office of the Unified Arts Building (UAB).
· Pre-ordered books will be shipped directly to home addresses. The price of shipping will be included in your purchase of a yearbook.
· Yearbook signing for students! We will offer a virtual yearbook signing in May (just like we did last year). Students will be able to print out their virtually signed pages and add them to their book when it arrives. This year, we will also give students an opportunity to handwrite messages to the class of 2021 and we will add them to the autograph pages (we will also leave blank space for your individual signatures).
REGISTER TO VOTE BY APRIL 14th! Anyone who is 18+ can vote. There is a Select Board election happening MAY 4th, make sure your voice is heard on a local level!
Here is a guide we have put together: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LsSNlSNrVuZEZffWoAYD_o2h2sNo0W9ITtTeMgjlkNQ/edit?usp=sharing
Check out this slide for more details: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/182lgVG6yTEo8G8zHuiQbbeKCGCFYmBaHd_R4sBsvLJs/edit?usp=sharing
SENIORS AND JUNIORS
Missed the March 31 BHS Guidance and Special Education Departments zoom panel on "College Supports for Students with Learning Differences"? This was a good discussion about supports available at colleges and then answer questions from the audience. At present, the panel includes representatives from BHS Guidance & Special Education Departments, and Admission Counselors from Curry College (Caisie Wynot), UMass Lowell (Thomas Screnci) and MassBay Community College (Peter Schilling). Here’s the recording with lots of good information - http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/guidance/college-supports-for-students-with-learning-differences9064245
Are you aware of the New England Tuition Break program? Basically, if you are accepted to one of the New England STATE schools, you can go there for Mass State Tuition cost IF you are interested in majoring in a concentration that is not offered in MA. To find the list of majors, discounts, and universities, go here: https://nebhe.org/tuitionbreak/find-a-program/ Last year, one of our students went to UConn for the price of UMass by participating in this program. Please email me if you have any questions! [email protected] BHS College Counselor
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: Brookline High School students and parents are invited to attend this info-packed event that will relieve stress and provide tips and strategies to navigate the changes ahead. New York Times bestselling author and leading authority on college success, Harlan Cohen, hosts this entertaining and interactive 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.
Copy and paste this registration link to your browser: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-kfUII_XQTOLCHEm516JDw
JUNIORS
Brimmer & May School is happy to announce their first College Essay Writing Bootcamp this summer! This camp is open to all rising seniors who are interested in getting a jumpstart on their college essay, including editing and feedback by our college counselors (and former college admissions professionals). At the conclusion of this one week experience, students will leave with an edited draft of their college essay and a number of tips and tricks to guide them through their additional supplemental essays.
Please find the attached flyer with more information, including pricing, dates, and the registration link.
Questions? Reach out to the Brimmer and May Director of Summer Programs, Cassie Abodeely, at [email protected]
STUDENTS' SUGGESTIONS TO PARENTS FOR HELPING WITH COLLEGE/POST-HIGH SCHOOL PLANNING
By the second semester of junior year, family stress ramps up significantly as students try to balance schoolwork, study for SATS, look into colleges or other post-BHS options, etc. All of this comes with a lot of internal and external judgment, even during years when COVID is not an issue. How can families be supportive without adding to the pressure? This year’s BHS Peer Leaders have put together some excellent tips to consider in the Parent Tip Sheet Student Suggestions to Parents for Helping with College/Post-High School Planning - https://www.b-pen.org/uploads/2/9/2/9/2929884/jr._parent_tip_sheet.pdf?mc_cid=95767123c3&mc_eid=ca3683a655pen.org/uploads/2/9/2/9/2929884/jr._parent_tip_sheet.pdf?mc_cid=95767123c3&mc_eid=ca3683a655
There are opportunities to attend some future 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/
Upcoming dates include:
Friday May 7th 10am-4pm CST
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 - https://virtualcollegefairs.org/events
Register for any or all of these dates:
April 20 – 162 Colleges and Universities from the Southeastern US
May 2 – 597 International and US Colleges and Universities
College Admissions Boot Camp – Free webinar sessions on topics important to the college application process. Sponsored by NEARR (New England Area Regional Representatives).
Registration is required - https://regionalreps.org/admissions-bootcamp
April 13, 7-8:30 pm: Application Case Studies
Thinking about a Gap Year after graduation? Here’s a list of free gap year specific webinars and another virtual Gap Year Fair you can register to attend - https://www.gooverseas.com/gap-year/usa-fairs/schedule
BHS Librarians are offering FREE online ACT/ SAT/ TOEFL test prep support continues. 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
SOPHOMORES
BHS Counselors and Hub Advisors are working together to help 10th graders think about Career Exploration in current hub/advisory classes over the next weeks:
9th GRADERS
Gr 9 Counselors continue to connect with their students in Hubs during CTOs (Counselors Take Over!) – Who Would You Like To Be in 5-10 Years?
Recently, the T closed down Brookline Hills stop due to accessibility improvements and the 9th Grade Expansion Project and no shuttle buses, excluding weekends. A BHS student created has created a google form below so he can try to advocate with the T for a bus shuttle since there are very limited options for public transportation in that area.
https://forms.gle/7wjuHFf2EEb8oFhU7
Please join BHS poets tomorrow night at 7 pm for the 26th Annual Poetry Fest.
The Zoom link for the event:
https://psbma-org.zoom.us/j/7948398623
BHS Library Hours for the remainder of the school year:
Monday 8-4:00
Tuesday 8-3:00
Wednesday 8-1:00 (starting after break)
Thursday 8-4:00
Friday 8-3:00
Students should reserve a seat in the library, in advance, at this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4badae2ea3face9-weekly
An organization called Take The Lead Boston is offering this opportunity - 2020 Take the Lead Career Summit that will be held virtually on April 14th, from 5pm – 7pm (EST). This Career Summit will provide an opportunity for young professionals to hear from and network with current employees from the Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, Red Sox, Revolution and the Boston Pride about how we are all working together to emphasize the importance of a diverse and accepting environment in the workplace. Allison Feaster, Boston Celtics Vice President of Player Development and Organizational Growth will be our keynote speaker and her bio is attached. In addition, attendees will learn more about careers in the professional sports and entertainment industry and through the power of Zoom breakout rooms they will have the chance to network with front office members from each of the teams. Go to www.taketheleadboston.org for the registration link and the registration code of TTL2021 (18+ please). Registration is FREE.
Virtual Career Month has begun!
BHS Guidance Dept and BHS Career Counselor Kate Kennedy and team are offering interesting career panels every X block to students! These events will continue during X blocks from April 13 to May 14th. Panels of individuals will share their career journeys within specific career clusters (see table below). Use this opportunity to network, learn about different careers, and explore careers you are interested in pursuing! Come to one or come to all of them! Questions? Email BHS Career Counselor Kate Kennedy at [email protected].
If you missed the panels on Law/Public Safety and Marketing/Sales/Service last week – go to the BHS Career Counseling section of the Guidance website- http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/career-counseling1.html - to see the recordings and get more information on any future BHS Virtual Career Month panels, plus previous 2020-21 Career Coffee Talk panels or the Resume Writing webinar.
To sign up for any panel please complete this google form link- (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdj2sidyBbzQRVic_FeMr1SJQY8Gp0KBx6HXtVgrLnUvBU1Dw/viewform) and indicate all the panels you would like to attend. You will get an email 1 week before the panel. Examples of some (but not all) careers are listed under each career cluster category below:
Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources (Farmers, Water resource specialists, environmental engineers)
Hospitality & Tourism (Bartenders, cooks, travel agents)
Architecture & Construction Arts (Carpenters, electricians, architects)
Human Services (Psychologists, social workers, barbers)
Audio/Video Technology & Communications (film and video editors, actors, graphic designers)
Information Technology (video game designers, web developers, computer programmer)
Business, Management & Administration (human resources, facilities managers, project management)
Education & Training (Teachers, coaches)
Manufacturing (woodworkers, chemical technicians, locksmiths)
Finance (accountants, insurance sales, loan officers)
Marketing, Sales & Service (real estate agents, telemarketers, models)
Government & Public Administration (Legislators, national security, building inspectors)
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (Physicists, mechanical engineers, automotive engineers)
Health Science (Biomedical engineers, Dentists, doctors)
Transportation, Distribution & Logistics (air traffic controllers, truck drivers, dispatchers)
Thinking about a summer job? Check out the BHS Career Website – http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/career-counseling and/or contact BHS Career Counselor Kate Kennedy directly at [email protected]. Here is one opportunity:
- The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation is still seeking qualified swimmers of all ages to watch over the state's oceans, lakes and pools this summer. If you know anyone that would be interested in pursuing a lifeguarding opportunity this summer, please invite them to apply online at www.masslifeguard.com. Applicants must be able to meet state swim requirements and must be 16 years old by date of hire.
There is a science help center at BHS run by peer tutors. Feel free to stop by if you need help in your science classes, or want to ask a quick question.
Science help center times: Tuesday's X-Block, Wednesdays afterschool (12:15-1:00), and Friday's X-Block.
Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/s/95851906783?pwd=cTBHUDRVTXBLVU1qb3RrVWVoTEFMUT09#success
Meeting ID: 958 5190 6783
Meeting Password: 7mKpKY
Please email [email protected] for any questions!
Are you interested in sharing your art with a supportive group of peers, or simply coming to enjoy other’s work? Look no further than SWS Art Show, Friday, April 16th at 6:30pm. Artists across the school will be able to auction, donate, or just share all of their hard work. The event is open to anyone interested in coming - - so come! Fill out this link to get involved, and email [email protected] for more information.
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.
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:
Join the Dance Marathon Club for a Spring Fair event April 25! For more information see the flyer attached to this email.
Sign up here: https://events.dancemarathon.com/event/dancemarathon
The Brookline High School Women in Entrepreneurship Club has partnered with Invest in Girls, a program of the Council for Economic Education, whose mission is to usher in the first generation of financially literate girls and change the way girls interact with money. Please consider joining one (or all!) of the Friday X block workshop sessions scheduled in April and May. Contact BHS Business teacher Kellie Griffin ([email protected]) to sign up. See attached flyer for more info.
COVID and Expanded Resources - From Mutual Aid Brookline
You can check out the Mutual Aid Brookline Facebook group for the latest.
- There is an official timeline for the remaining vaccine eligibility phases:
April 5th (this is Monday!): Residents 55+ and residents with one certain medical condition
April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older
- Eligible people should now pre-register for vaccine appointments at https://vaccinesignup.mass.gov/
- Fenway is closed as a vaccination site as of today, the 27th
- Hynes will be expanded with new support from FEMA (this means more available doses)
- You can use https://www.covidvaccinetexts.com/ (unofficial site) to get text alerts when appointments are posted at CVS and Walgreens locations
- You can use https://macovidvaxhelp.com/ (unofficial site) to either sign up for help making your appointment or sign up to help others!
Public Charge Rule Update - Ongoing - Project Bread
You can now apply for SNAP benefits with no risk to obtaining permanent legal residence! Call 1-800-645-8333 for assistance.
Ahora puede solicitar beneficios del SNAP sin arriesgar su capacidad para obtener residencia permanente! Llame al 1-800-645-8333.
211 COVID Vaccine Appointment Assistance Over the Phone - Ongoing - Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
A Vaccine Scheduling Resource Line helps 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 is staffed with over 500 representatives who can provide live phone support to assist residents with booking an appointment.
The line is 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.
There is a Brookline Vaccine Resource Hub call center! The call center is open from Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. until further notice. The number for the call center is 617-879-5636. Those who call after hours may leave a voicemail and their messages will be returned when the call center is open. Questions may also be submitted via email to [email protected].
There is also a Brookline vaccine FAQs page, which includes information about cost (yes, the vaccines will be free, and getting a vaccine will not impact immigration status): https://brooklinecovid19.com/vaccineFAQ/.
Expanded Services Available - Ongoing - Brookline Center
The Brookline Center's "Care Connections" program provides support for residents of Brookline who need assistance with public benefits, advocacy, care coordination, or referrals to community resources. You are not required to be a patient at the Brookline Center to use these services.
See the flyer here (and attached to this email): https://drive.google.com/file/d/13vUu55L-A2Oioq2z5LrEg1YieKV090oJ/view?usp=sharing.
To request assistance: https://bit.ly/3ckfb2h.
For questions about the referral process or other concerns contact [email protected] or 857-707-3471.
Summer Opportunities and Jobs:
Opportunities 2021 for BHS students– Summer is only 2 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 volunteer opportunities for BHS and the Brookline area:
Walk for Change - Sunday April 25th - Boston Area Rape Crisis Center
The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC) is a Greater Boston nonprofit organization for survivors of sexual violence & their loved ones. April is S.A.A.M - Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and on Sunday April 25th BARCC is hosting the Walk for Change - a virtual event to support survivors and raise funds. Register for the event here: https://barccwalk.org/ or use this form to contact one of the organizers: https://forms.gle/QYcuDrMtLiep8f318.
BARCC welcomes survivors of all genders and gender identities, including men and transgender and nonbinary people. They work with survivors of all races, religions, incomes, languages, abilities, ethnicities, and sexual orientations, and no matter their former or current engagement with sex work. They serve survivors regardless of immigration status. ALL of BARCC's services are free at all times. BARCC offers a 24/7 hotline [800-841-8371], medical advocacy, legal advocacy, counseling and support groups. https://barcc.org/
Try checking out this community service link from the free resource Teen Life - https://www.teenlife.com/category/volunteer/volunteer-boston/
SENIORS
Financial Aid Award Letters…. Be sure you know what those letters say!
Here are some definitions of various financial aid semantics - http://admitted.nacacnet.org/wordpress/index.php/2021/04/09/financial-aid-award-letters-8-things-to-consider/#more-4753
Trying to figure out the financial aid packages for colleges you’ve been accepted to? Look to MEFA (MA Educational Financing Authority) and view this video –
https://www.mefa.org/videos/family-webinar-series-after-college-acceptance
Still haven’t completed your FAFSA (Federal Financial Aid form) for college? It’s not too late! Attend this FAFSA Festival on April 24 for some help from experts MEFA – MA Educational Financing Authority – to get this critical step to supporting your college experience completed. See attached flyers in both English and Spanish for more info.
April BHS Scholarship Letter – See attached
If your child has not submitted the BHS Scholarship Application and CSS Profile but plans to do so, please submit it very soon. The application is easy to complete and is available here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdp0n0dznzcGGiZ12S8sfE57lyshVlD_DOKqlfyjz_2yK0l1w/viewform and online on the Brookline High School homepage. To make fair decisions, the Scholarship Committee requires that families fill out the CSS Profile financial aid form, available at CollegeBoard.com. Submit the CSS Profile to code 0424 (the Brookline Scholarship Fund) ASAP too. The last piece that will be required is your child's financial aid letter from the college they plan to attend. So, once that is decided, have them send Ms Whelan a screenshot/picture of their financial aid letter that college provides (or of their student portal page from the college that shows their financial aid info). Her email is [email protected]. We know that many students may not make this decision before May 1st.
Additional Note: The Scholarship Committee uses three criteria for choosing award recipients: academics, contributions and activities at BHS, and most importantly, unmet financial need. There are no merit scholarships per se given out through this program.
For Parents/ Caregivers of Seniors -
THE POST-BHS TRANSITION -- WHAT SENIOR PARENTS NEED TO KNOW
Thursday, April 29, 7 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87494337237?pwd=dkQ5c1hZOE5PdjdLRWkvbjYwaGJCUT09
Meeting ID: 874 9433 7237
Passcode: 0cuhkk
Whether your student is heading off to college or the military or staying close to home for a gap year or to work, their transition from high school life will be a big change.
The PTO and B-PEN present a special evening with guest speaker Dr. Anjini Virmani, BHS Social Worker Abby Dean, and some recent BHS grads, addressing this milestone from both parent and student perspectives. Current trends, safety tips, practical messaging regarding alcohol/drug use, and useful strategies for letting go while maintaining open communication will be covered. Dr. Virmani will share important information about dealing with college student medical needs away from home, including HIPAA health privacy guidelines and a “medical tool kit.”
Reminder Updates from Senior Deans Williams, Sudmyer, and Redding:
June 6th Graduation:
BHS Senior Deans Summer Williams, Ron Sudmyer and Lisa Redding are working with Hal Mason, Anthony Meyer, and many town and district leaders to create the best commencement experience within guidelines from the CDC, the Commonwealth, and the Town of Brookline. We are investigating several options, including an in-person ceremony, to give our Seniors a “walk across the stage” moment. As it stands, we have outdoor options on Sunday 6/6, our original commencement date. We will communicate directions and decisions in a more detailed manner soon, so please stay tuned. The Class of 2021 deserves a memorable graduation experience.
Celebratory Event:
Our Senior PTO members have begun meeting and welcoming volunteers to help plan a gathering for seniors. This group is also monitoring how other districts are organizing events as well. Parents/Caregivers who would like to volunteer to help plan, organize or otherwise contribute should contact our awesome PTO partners at [email protected].
Student Senior Steering Committee:
For Seniors who are interested in getting involved, please consider joining our Senior Steering Committee led by Dr. Erin Blette. The Committee is meeting this Friday, March 26, during X-block. Please email Dr. Blette for more information or to sign-up at [email protected].
Yearbooks:
The yearbook staff is working hard to create a book that we hope all will treasure. In order to create the best possible yearbook, we are extending our timeline. Unfortunately, this means that yearbooks will arrive in early July. We know that this may be disappointing and we hope that you can understand that we are doing our best under difficult circumstances. And some of us BHS leaders work throughout the summer so we will consider how to supervise and support a yearbook distribution and signing day even if it is in July.
We will send out more information and opportunities to contribute soon. For now, here are some important announcements.
· Yearbook and ad purchase deadlines are extended!
o April 16th - New deadline to buy a personalized yearbook - https://www.jostens.com/apps/store/productBrowse/1066230/Brookline-High-School/2021-Yearbook/20200929043335950135/CATALOG_SHOP/
o May 1st - Deadline to buy a non-personalized yearbook or donate a yearbook.
o May 1st - Deadline to purchase a yearbook ad - https://www.jostens.com/yearbooks/students-and-parents/yearbook-ads?utm_source=exacttarget&utm_medium=email&utm_term=All%20Subscribers&utm_content=YBK-ADS-Comp1-CTA-Button&utm_campaign=YBK_MER621381570_ADS_SENIOR_NONBUYER__20210317
· Students with free/reduced lunch (documented in Aspen/X2) may purchase yearbooks at a discounted price of $75. Payments must be made by check. Please make checks payable to Public Schools of Brookline and write the student's name in the memo. Checks can be dropped off at the office of the Unified Arts Building (UAB).
· Pre-ordered books will be shipped directly to home addresses. The price of shipping will be included in your purchase of a yearbook.
· Yearbook signing for students! We will offer a virtual yearbook signing in May (just like we did last year). Students will be able to print out their virtually signed pages and add them to their book when it arrives. This year, we will also give students an opportunity to handwrite messages to the class of 2021 and we will add them to the autograph pages (we will also leave blank space for your individual signatures).
REGISTER TO VOTE BY APRIL 14th! Anyone who is 18+ can vote. There is a Select Board election happening MAY 4th, make sure your voice is heard on a local level!
Here is a guide we have put together: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LsSNlSNrVuZEZffWoAYD_o2h2sNo0W9ITtTeMgjlkNQ/edit?usp=sharing
Check out this slide for more details: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/182lgVG6yTEo8G8zHuiQbbeKCGCFYmBaHd_R4sBsvLJs/edit?usp=sharing
SENIORS AND JUNIORS
Missed the March 31 BHS Guidance and Special Education Departments zoom panel on "College Supports for Students with Learning Differences"? This was a good discussion about supports available at colleges and then answer questions from the audience. At present, the panel includes representatives from BHS Guidance & Special Education Departments, and Admission Counselors from Curry College (Caisie Wynot), UMass Lowell (Thomas Screnci) and MassBay Community College (Peter Schilling). Here’s the recording with lots of good information - http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/guidance/college-supports-for-students-with-learning-differences9064245
Are you aware of the New England Tuition Break program? Basically, if you are accepted to one of the New England STATE schools, you can go there for Mass State Tuition cost IF you are interested in majoring in a concentration that is not offered in MA. To find the list of majors, discounts, and universities, go here: https://nebhe.org/tuitionbreak/find-a-program/ Last year, one of our students went to UConn for the price of UMass by participating in this program. Please email me if you have any questions! [email protected] BHS College Counselor
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: Brookline High School students and parents are invited to attend this info-packed event that will relieve stress and provide tips and strategies to navigate the changes ahead. New York Times bestselling author and leading authority on college success, Harlan Cohen, hosts this entertaining and interactive 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.
Copy and paste this registration link to your browser: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-kfUII_XQTOLCHEm516JDw
JUNIORS
Brimmer & May School is happy to announce their first College Essay Writing Bootcamp this summer! This camp is open to all rising seniors who are interested in getting a jumpstart on their college essay, including editing and feedback by our college counselors (and former college admissions professionals). At the conclusion of this one week experience, students will leave with an edited draft of their college essay and a number of tips and tricks to guide them through their additional supplemental essays.
Please find the attached flyer with more information, including pricing, dates, and the registration link.
Questions? Reach out to the Brimmer and May Director of Summer Programs, Cassie Abodeely, at [email protected]
STUDENTS' SUGGESTIONS TO PARENTS FOR HELPING WITH COLLEGE/POST-HIGH SCHOOL PLANNING
By the second semester of junior year, family stress ramps up significantly as students try to balance schoolwork, study for SATS, look into colleges or other post-BHS options, etc. All of this comes with a lot of internal and external judgment, even during years when COVID is not an issue. How can families be supportive without adding to the pressure? This year’s BHS Peer Leaders have put together some excellent tips to consider in the Parent Tip Sheet Student Suggestions to Parents for Helping with College/Post-High School Planning - https://www.b-pen.org/uploads/2/9/2/9/2929884/jr._parent_tip_sheet.pdf?mc_cid=95767123c3&mc_eid=ca3683a655pen.org/uploads/2/9/2/9/2929884/jr._parent_tip_sheet.pdf?mc_cid=95767123c3&mc_eid=ca3683a655
There are opportunities to attend some future 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/
Upcoming dates include:
Friday May 7th 10am-4pm CST
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 - https://virtualcollegefairs.org/events
Register for any or all of these dates:
April 20 – 162 Colleges and Universities from the Southeastern US
May 2 – 597 International and US Colleges and Universities
College Admissions Boot Camp – Free webinar sessions on topics important to the college application process. Sponsored by NEARR (New England Area Regional Representatives).
Registration is required - https://regionalreps.org/admissions-bootcamp
April 13, 7-8:30 pm: Application Case Studies
Thinking about a Gap Year after graduation? Here’s a list of free gap year specific webinars and another virtual Gap Year Fair you can register to attend - https://www.gooverseas.com/gap-year/usa-fairs/schedule
BHS Librarians are offering FREE online ACT/ SAT/ TOEFL test prep support continues. 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
SOPHOMORES
BHS Counselors and Hub Advisors are working together to help 10th graders think about Career Exploration in current hub/advisory classes over the next weeks:
- Thinking of Life after High School and how BHS resources can be used
- Logging on to MEFA Pathways and Exploring Careers
- Matching Career Exploration and BHS Opportunities
- BHS Counselor Coffee Talk – “This Is My Story”
9th GRADERS
Gr 9 Counselors continue to connect with their students in Hubs during CTOs (Counselors Take Over!) – Who Would You Like To Be in 5-10 Years?