Happy Snowy Super Bowl Sunday! Quarter 3 is now underway and Quarter 2 report cards were uploaded to both the student and parent portals on Friday. Please take a minute to check this info and offer congratulations on the successes and support on an agreed upon action plan for the challenges.
IMORTANT FOR SENIORS – be sure to check your Quarter 2 grades since BHS guidance will be sending out all Q1&2 grades to colleges you’ve applied to during week of Feb 8! Contact your teacher if something is omitted and be in touch with your counselor if needed. College admissions offices are looking for this info by 2/15 so we need to send out these documents by 2/11 (since teachers, counselors, guidance secretaries are on vacation from 2/11- 2/21).
And it’s another special schedule week with no school this Friday 2/12/21 for the Lunar New Year holiday. Please see the attached special schedule.
IMORTANT FOR SENIORS – be sure to check your Quarter 2 grades since BHS guidance will be sending out all Q1&2 grades to colleges you’ve applied to during week of Feb 8! Contact your teacher if something is omitted and be in touch with your counselor if needed. College admissions offices are looking for this info by 2/15 so we need to send out these documents by 2/11 (since teachers, counselors, guidance secretaries are on vacation from 2/11- 2/21).
And it’s another special schedule week with no school this Friday 2/12/21 for the Lunar New Year holiday. Please see the attached special schedule.
ALL STUDENTS
STUDENTS IN GRADES 9-12:
PSB School Committee is offering a Listening Session for Gr 7-12 students this Monday Feb 8 @ 7pm -
Throughout the country and the world, this has been a year of significant challenges in education. The School Committee recognizes that many of you would like the opportunity to discuss your experiences, ask questions, and provide input. We value your thoughts and want to provide you with expanded opportunities to be heard.
We invite you to participate in an interactive listening session for all Brookline Grade 7-12 Students. The listening session will be held on Monday, February 8, 7:00 PM-8:30 PM. You can register for this session by clicking on this Zoom link: https://brooklinema.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_Vmik8OdLRterK_LuAxhwVQ
The listening session will last for approximately one hour and a half and will be attended by up to four members of the School Committee. All Brookline Grade 7-12 students are welcome to participate.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
Suzanne Federspiel, Chair of the School Committee
David A. Pearlman, Vice Chair of the School Committee
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).
ACE program info….. Attention BHS 9th-11th Graders - This past week, ACE is officially launching the application process for enrollment next September.
ACE, #High School Your Way, is a small, competency-based program for 55 students, grades 10-12, within BHS.
If you don't know much about ACE, you can also check out our website at:
ACE Your Way
If you are interested in applying to ACE, you need to schedule an appointment to do a zoom info. meeting and then a zoom classroom visit. Please schedule this with ACE Secretary: [email protected]
The link to the ACE application is also here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VnZl41KUmXDmF9SMmBku3tO6uDtWAxqR/view?usp=sharing The application deadline is Friday, March 5th.
We hope you will take the time to explore ACE if you feel like you need a change in your BHS high school experience.
Amy Bayer
ACE Program Coordinator
[email protected]
Last Day to complete the admissions process is this Friday 2/12!
The SWS (BHS School Within a School) admissions process is now open!
http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/sws.html
Please take the opportunity to see if SWS could be a good fit.
School Within a School, located on the fourth floor of BHS, is an alternative, democratic community for a diverse group of approximately 120 sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Goals for students include taking as much responsibility for their education as possible, sharing decision-making in running SWS, and contributing to building a caring community. For 50 years, SWS has provided students with the opportunity to participate actively as leaders in their own educations and develop meaningful relationships with teachers based on mutual respect. Admission to SWS is based on a lottery, the criteria of which are determined by the SWS Town Meeting. In addition to Town Meeting, SWS students take at least two classes in the program, including English. They take the rest of their classes in the mainstream of BHS. More information about the program, and the admissions process, can be found at swsbrookline.org.
BHS Club information:
Greater Boston STEM Program (gbSTEM) - an enrichment program that delivers free introductory computer science and mathematics courses to elementary and middle school students in the Greater Boston area. Since March 2020, we have brought free virtual lessons to over 250 Massachusetts youth.
Join Sunrise Brookline! We are the Brookline Hub of the Nationwide Sunrise Movement, a movement to stop climate change and create millions of good jobs in the process. We're building an army of young people to make climate change an urgent priority across America, end the corrupting influence of fossil fuel executives on our politics, and elect leaders who stand up for the health and wellbeing of all people. As a relatively new hub, we have organized actions around political change in Brookline, including marches and lobbying groups. We are currently working on multiple projects to elect Brookline leaders that represent our values, educate our community members about environmental racism, build our hub, organize actions around climate justice, and mobilize young people to demand change.
We are hosting a welcome call on Sunday, February 7th at 1PM and Wednesday, February 10th at 8pm to learn more about Sunrise Brookline and find out how you can get involved. Sign up to come to one of the calls here: https://www.mobilize.us/sunrisemovement/event/373387/ and reach out to us if you have any questions!
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @sunrisebrookline
Valentines Day Sale Fundraiser for Boston Children's Hospital! Purchase homemade baked goods as well as chocolates for yourself or loved ones (Gluten Free available). Available for social-distanced pickup the week of February 7-13 (Tuesday and Thursday from 3-3:45) or delivery (Friday or Saturday) to any address in the Boston area. You may also include a personalized note to a loved one.
Copy and paste this form into your browser to order: https://forms.gle/obe3DssTdxaJv1j57
Thank you for supporting the kids at Boston Children's Hospital in this time of need!
Mental health Supports:
Coping groups bring together people who are going or who have gone through similar life experiences. In MassSupport's new free and confidential COVID-19 coping groups, we'll be talking about how to handle feelings of isolation and stress in a supportive space to enhance coping skills and foster a sense of connection.
Groups will last about 90 minutes and participants do the vast majority of the talking. A brief educational component is included. While our trained, caring counselors and clinicians facilitate, these groups are not therapy.
https://masssupport.org/
Our coping groups are completely free, and you can sign up for multiple groups. Register below:
Coping group for COVID-19 survivors
· February 9th, 2021 at 7:00 pm EST
· February 11th, 2021 at 11:00 am EST
Grief / Bereavement Resources for Young People and Adults -
Care Dimensions Grief /Bereavement Virtual Resources and Support –
https://www.caredimensions.org/grief-support/workshops-support-groups.cfm
See attached flyer for more info
HEARTplay.Bereavement Program is offering their first Camp HEARTplay program of 2021. We hope you will share this invitation with families in your communities who could benefit from bereavement support.
This one-day bereavement camp program will be held on zoom on Wednesday, February 17 10am-2pm and will include break-out sessions for elementary school aged children and a teen retreat, as well as optional co-occurring caregiver support groups.
The theme of this Camp HEARTplay program is "Growing Through Grief: A Day of Reflection, Connection & Creativity." The program will include age-appropriate activities and discussions for each break-out group. A portion of the day will also include an "Ask The Experts" panel of young adults who have been HEARTplay participants and mentors. These experts will share about their own experiences of growing through grief and answer questions from Camp HEARTplay participants.
As always, this program is offered at no cost to all families and is open to new and current HEARTplay participants.
Registration deadline is Monday, February 8, as we will be mailing care packages to all participants prior to the camp day. Click here for registration form: heartplayprogram.org/special-events
Please see the attached flyer or heartplayprogram.org/camp-heartplay for additional information. With questions contact Jennifer Wiles, HEARTplay Director, at 508-309-5107 or [email protected].
The BRYT Family Engagement Team is excited to share their NEW and IMPROVED Parents Supporting Parents FLYER. Flyer is also attached.
Students - Feeling down? Always anxious or worried? Concerned about someone else in your life – friend, family member? Not sleeping well because your mind can’t shut down? If these questions sound familiar, please don’t worry alone.
Guidance/school counselors and other clinical support staff at Brookline High are here to listen, assess, and support you so you are not carrying these burdens alone. Please reach out to your counselor. You can also reach out to a BHS faculty member (including Darby Neff-Verre – Coordinator of BHS Guidance/Counseling) to start the conversation about how we can help you build strategies or get connected to feel safe and better about your situation. Contact your counselor at their email, zoom visiting hours, or phone.
COVID Related Resources
Mutual Aid Brookline shares this information…
FREE SERVICES
211 COVID Vaccine Appointment Assistance Over the Phone - Ongoing - Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
A new Vaccine Scheduling Resource Line has been launched to help residents 75 and older more easily schedule an appointment if they do not have internet or are unable to use the website at www.mass.gov/COVIDVaccine.
The call center will be staffed with over 500 representatives who can provide live phone support to assist residents with booking an appointment.
The line will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Live call center workers will be available in English and Spanish, and 100 additional languages will be available through translators. Call center workers will have the same access to appointments that users will see on the public website.
The line can be accessed by dialing 2–1–1 and selecting the prompt for “Help Scheduling a Vaccine Appointment.” Residents may have to wait on the line given expected high call volume.
Brookline COVID Vaccine Resources - Ongoing - Department of Public Health
There is a Brookline Vaccine Resource Hub call center! The call center will be 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 now 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/.
Click here to fill out the official Town questionnaire to learn more about when you can expect to be eligible for a vaccine: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfpp2nBq8tIA5fEezJsW4mrAAlzVwEp-c0zkHIXKHUYjKFJyA/viewform. In addition, those who complete the questionnaire can sign up for updates on how they can be vaccinated when they’re eligible.
Statewide COVID Vaccine Resources - Ongoing - Compiled by MAB
If you are eligible in Phase 1 or activated groups in Phase 2, available sites and appointments are listed here: https://www.maimmunizations.org/. If you aren't sure if/when you will be eligible, look here first: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine.
Appointments are posted regularly to the MA Immunizations site but tend to go very quickly. New appointments at local mass vaccination sites (Fenway and Gillette) are posted on THURSDAYS.
Check with your primary care physician (PCP) about their plans for their patients, unless they have already contacted you or sent out an email. (See below for messages from major medical providers in/near Brookline.) We will send out information about public Brookline vaccine clinics when it is available.
Mass General Brigham (accurate as of 02.05): COVID-19 vaccine appointments are currently available for eligible patients. If you received an invitation for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, please schedule your appointment at a Mass General Brigham vaccine clinic that is convenient for you. The easiest way to do this is through Patient Gateway. All vaccine appointment scheduling is being done at a central location for all our hospitals and clinics. Please do not contact your doctor's office about vaccine appointments. See https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/covid19/vaccine for updates.
Boston Medical Center (accurate as of 02.06): Phase 2 began on February 1. BMC patients who are eligible are now getting messages from their doctor's office telling them they can get a vaccine. This may be a text message, email, or phone call. You may also be eligible to get the vaccine at a state vaccination site; you can find more details here. See https://www.bmc.org/covid-19-vaccine for updates.
Beth Israel Lahey Health (accurate as of 02.06): We have opened a number of vaccine clinics across Eastern Massachusetts and will be offering vaccine appointments to eligible Massachusetts patients who have recently received care from a Beth Israel Lahey Health hospital, physician practice or affiliated provider. We will contact patients individually by email, phone or text when they are able to receive the vaccine based on Massachusetts state guidelines and the number of vaccine doses available. Vaccines will not be available at doctor’s offices or hospitals. See https://coronavirus.bilh.org/vaccine/ for updates.
Atrius Health (accurate as of 02.06): At this time, Atrius Health has not yet received sufficient vaccine supply from the state, and we are unable to begin scheduling appointments for our patients 75 and older. We are hopeful we will receive vaccine in mid-February so that we can begin scheduling appointments for this priority group soon. Our practices have more than 40,000 patients who are in the 75 and older group. When we receive vaccine, we will begin general outreach to our patients 75 and older through MyHealth (our patient portal), our public website, social media, email, and other channels to invite them to schedule appointments. See https://www.atriushealth.org/health-and-wellness/wellness-information/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine for updates.
Summer Opportunities 2021 for BHS students– Summer is only 4 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 her 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! They are also offering a virtual summer opportunities fair on Feb 25 from 6-8:45pm. Registration is required - https://www.teenlife.com/summer-virtual-fair/
RESOURCES FOR REMOTE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES FOR BHS STUDENTS:
Brookline Cares - Empowerment Coats winter drive
Brookline Cares is a student-run, volunteer organization started by Brookline High School students. Our organization promotes awareness, fundraises, and accepts donations of winter clothing to donate to people in need. The clothing collected is given to people in communities with high rates of COVID-19 in the Greater Boston area. We are urgently raising money through a GoFundMe to purchase Empowerment coats to give out to people in communities with high rates of COVID. These communities also have high rates of poverty and homelessness. Empowerment coats are coats that convert into sleeping bags and can be used by people experiencing homelessness or people who do not have shelter. Visit their website for more information: https://www.empowermentplan.org/the-coat. The coats will be distributed by Mass General to people in Revere, Chelsea, Lynn, Charlestown, and Everett through their mobile testing vans. If you want to help make a positive difference in the world we live in, then this is the perfect cause to donate to. Please visit our page for more information: https://brooklinecares.wixsite.com/home
Updated Inspo:Expo Online Volunteer Match – Here is the link to see a list of Inspo:Expo partners who have remote (or low social contact) volunteer opportunities: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EjWNx3AF7i4wkbVoLizNQ4NwGnHNcmLpbb_PAvBoeoI/edit
If you scroll through and see something you're interested in, simply email the organization directly through their listed contact info.
Try checking out this community service link from the free resource Teen Life - https://www.teenlife.com/category/volunteer/volunteer-boston/
Career Exploration at BHS:
Careers in Health Science: On Tuesday 2/9 during X block come to the Virtual College and Career Center to hear from Sonia Laurie, a postdoctoral fellow in the Seeding Postdoctoral Innovators in Research & Education Program at The University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, where she studies epigenetic regulation of immune cells in graft-versus-host disease after bone marrow transplantation. Sonia also teaches undergraduate biology courses. Sonia will talk about her career journey and more! We hope to see you there!
If you are interested in attending this Coffee Talk please email Ms. Kennedy, [email protected] from your school email for the zoom link.
The College and Career Center at Brookline High School is seeking community support for our Career Exploration and Immersion Program (CEIP). The goal of the CEIP is to build intentional connections between the professional expertise in our community and the students, teachers, and programs who seek understanding of and experience with the current professional landscape. The CEIP focuses on a two-fold mission: to bring experts into classrooms and/or the Career Center, as well as to bring students into the professional setting through career exploration and immersion activities.
https://forms.gle/94SfA1CrXYudhSGZ9
MassBay STEM stories - Learn more about the programs MassBay Community College offers in their STEM Division. To view our current Associate Degree and Certificate programs, please go to: https://www.massbay.edu/stem. The focus in on why this is a good time to consider pursuing an education/career in STEM. There are pre-recorded videos where students “meet” STEM faculty and students and see some of their labs. One of the videos is of a former biotech student speaking about this program. Another video is of a MassBay graduate who is an Engineer, now working in the wind energy field. There is an overview about the supports Mass Bay offers students and the smart economics of starting at a community college, regardless of where students want to end up.
Genetic Counseling Career opportunity for students… Want to learn about the vastly growing health profession of genetic counseling? Genetic counselors are health care professionals who:
· Help people understand hereditary diseases
· Facilitate decision making about genetic testing
· Provide emotional support to patients
Genetic counseling has multiple specialties and is a growing field with excellent job availability. More information about this career can also be found online at https://www.nsgc.org/page/frequently-asked-questions-students.
The Division for Cancer Genetics and Prevention at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is hosting a free virtual career day to provide more information about genetic counseling on Saturday, February 27th, 2021. The event will be held virtually over zoom and all are welcome to attend.
Interested individuals can register online at: https://genetic-counseling-career-day-2021.eventbrite.com
If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact us at [email protected].
SENIORS
12th graders – take a look at this short and sweet article – “Dear High School Seniors- What NOT to Do Spring of Your Senior Year” - https://grownandflown.com/high-school-seniors-not-do-spring-senior-year/ It’s hard not to do some of these things when senioritis strikes but be mindful of these points… They’re all true! And please don’t forget to have some fun, even in these strange times!
Midyear grades to colleges and other guidance department requests:
1) BHS will automatically send midyear (semester 2) grades to all the colleges that are on your Naviance (Colleges I am Applying To). You only need to complete one transcript release form for each school--after that, we send your grades automatically. (For example, Lenny completed the trasncript release form to BU in September, and now all of Lenny's grades wil be send there as they become available).
2) Please add your college results to naviance: go to Colleges I am Applying To, click on Edit (Pencil sign)
3) If you got into a school and you are 100% sure you will not go there, please let them know (especially if this is a state school). Colleges are experiencing a huge increase in applications this year, and are therefore using waitlist and deferals a lot--so your email might help another student get in.
Interested in applying to Framingham State University? You have a great opportunity to get accepted on the spot at Framingham State University…. Join FSU and BHS for a Virtual Admissions Decision Day. Register to meet with an FSU admissions representative to discuss your application and receive your decision (please note, in some cases FSU will not be able to provide a decision at the time of meeting, but will let you know what your next steps are. Application fees will be waived for participating applicants). Here are the steps:
1) Make an appointment for the zoom session. Important: this will be a zoom meeting with the FSU Admissions Counselor who makes the admission decisions. Please come on time & represent BHS well.
2) Complete Commonapp.org for FSU, or FSU’s own application. Framingham State does not require an essay. To get the fee waiver, there is a question on both the FSU App, and then on the Common App (in the FSU questions) that asks if you are eligible for a school specific waiver. Select "official campus visit." It's okay if you submit the app before the meeting, once the meeting takes place FSU will make sure the app fee is waived.
3) Complete the transcript release form, & email Mr. Libenzon ([email protected]) to indicate that you will attend the on-the-spot session.
Senior portraits for yearbook – DEADLINE EXTENDED to 2/28/21! A little more time has been added for seniors to submit your senior portraits. The new deadline is February 28th. Don't wait until the last minute for this extended date! The yearbook staff needs your prompt submissions so we can meet our deadlines and get the book to you on time! We know that many of you just had your pictures taken by Prestige and are waiting for proofs. Please complete the rest of the google form for now and leave out the senior portrait. We will be able to see your selected yearbook portrait and download it from the Prestige site.
SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION FOR SENIORS…. Below is the partial list of scholarships available to qualified students. You can find many more scholarships on goingmerry.com, fastweb.com and through your student’s Naviance account, under Scholarships & Money.
BHS Scholarships
The Brookline High School Scholarship Committee announces that applications are now available for tuition scholarships to Boston University (2 full-tuition renewable scholarships) and Northeastern University (2 half-tuition renewable scholarships). Applications are available online at the BHS homepage under BHS Scholarship Application. Applications must be completed ASAP. 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
NOTE: If you would like to be considered for the BU or Northeastern scholarships and have not yet applied, you must do so ASAP and submit your CSS Profile. The Committee is in the process of reviewing applicants now. Let Ms. Whelan know if you have questions - her email is [email protected]
The Scholarship Committee would like parents to know that we use 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. The deadline for applying for BHS scholarships for students attending ANY OTHER college is April 1. Please use the same application as above.
Point Foundation National LGBTQ Scholarship. Point Foundation considers many factors when assessing scholarship applicants, including working for the betterment of the LGBTQ community and financial need. To apply go to: https://pointfoundation.org/point-apply/application-faqs/
Henry David Thoreau Foundation If you are planning on pursuing an interest in the environmental field, you may be eligible for up to $20,000 from the Henry David Thoreau Foundation. More information and applications are available online at http://www.thoreauscholar.org/student/application.html
Yawkey Scholars Program If you plan to attend a private college, have mentored someone during high school, have faced significant challenges and/or obstacles and have significant financial need, you may be eligible to receive a Yawkey Foundation Scholarship. To access the application go to: https://www.tpi.org/what-we-do/scholarships-college-success
Red Pine Scholarship The Red Pine Scholarship supports students from low- to middle-income families in Massachusetts who have demonstrated academic excellence to attend competitive colleges. Please make sure that you are eligible for the scholarship by reviewing the Guidelines and Eligibility Requirements. For more information go to: https://www.tpi.org/what-we-do/scholarships-college-success
The National Catholic College Admission Association Scholarship The National CCAA Scholarship is awarded to eight college-going high school seniors from various geographic regions attending one of our member institutions. http://www.catholiccollegesonline.org/students-parents/financial-aid/nccaa-scholarship.html
Caring.com Scholarship. Caring.com is a senior care organization that seeks to support family caregivers, their loved ones, and professionals in the senior care community. They have scholarship resources that could be useful for potential nursing students.
Scholarships for Undocumented Students. The list contains 344 undergraduate scholarships that do not require proof of citizenship or legal permanent residency. Undocumented students pursuing higher education need to know that scholarships and fellowships are available to them—regardless of their immigration status. https://immigrantsrising.org/2020scholarships/
Are you still trying to figure out what your plans are after graduation? If the answer is yes, check out the opportunity to serve with City Year. City Year is a one-year program where you work full-time in an urban Elementary, Middle, or High School bridging the gap between the support that students actually need and what their schools are designed and resourced to provide. They are looking for folks that have a passion for working with youth and would be willing to work hard to help them to see their full potential. They partner with schools and districts to identify students who are at risk of not graduating on time with their peers, and provide them with extra academic, emotional, and social support, and the skills that they need to be successful for college and a career. To learn more about City Year contact recruitment manager, Kristen Hill, at [email protected]
When your college financial aid package arrives, please join MEFA (MA Educational Financing Authority)…… After the College Acceptance
Thursday, March 18, 2021 | 7:00pm - 8:00pm
This webinar provides valuable guidance for high school seniors who have received their college acceptance letters and financial aid offers and are trying to make the college decision. Topics include an overview of different types of financial aid, an explanation of how to calculate the balance due at each college, and methods for paying the college bill. Register at : https://www.mefa.org/events/after-the-college-acceptance2
The alternate date is Thursday, April 08, 7pm. Register at
https://www.mefa.org/events/after-the-college-acceptance4
Thinking about a post grad path that is NOT college specific? Check in with your counselor and/or Kate Kennedy, the BHS Career Counselor, for ideas and resources.
JUNIORS
Junior seminars with your counselor have started. The third seminar will be on Monday 2/22 from 1-2pm to review your unofficial transcript and to discuss course scheduling for senior year. See you then! We encourage you to contact your counselor for a 1:1 zoom meeting starting in February.
BHS Librarians are offering….. FREE online ACT/ SAT/ TOEFL test prep support starting Thurs Feb 11. Check out the attached flyer and register here - https://forms.gle/2y1uxvhMs9j7xW2M7
College Board is offering a series of virtual regional college fairs over the next 6 weeks. Cut and paste this link to get more information and register - https://pages.collegeboard.org/big-future-days?SFMC_cid=EM438518-&rid=47663053
Save the DatesYou can attend any event and more than one. Explore your college options in each region!
BigFuture Days Southeast Tuesday, February 23
BigFuture Days Northeast Sunday, March 7
BigFuture Days Midwest Thursday, March 11
Juniors - Please review your current unofficial transcript for any missing classes or errors. Contact your counselor with any questions or concerns.
You should be checking that you are on your way to earning all required credits towards graduation in June 2022.
English- 4 credits
Science - 3 credits
Social Studies/History - 3 credits including US History
Math - 3 credits (4 years required for UMass State colleges/universities)
World Language - 2 credits (same language)
Elective - 3 credits distributed across Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Career/Tech, Community Service
Wellness - .5 Lifetime Wellness, 3 - .25 wellness credits
+ additional credits to earn minimum total credits of 22
JUNIORS AND SOPHOMORES
PreACT at BHS is on!
The PreACT will be administered at Brookline High on the morning of Saturday, February 27th from 7:45-11:30 am.
The PreACT is a shorter practice version of the ACT college admissions test, normed for sophomores in high school. The PreACT also offers a built-in career interest inventory. Each student taking the test will have the opportunity to:
v Identify current academic readiness for college and career using the PreACT report
v Predict how you’ll perform on the ACT after an additional junior year of learning (predictive quality of test is different for juniors since they already are having that “additional year” of curriculum as defined by the ACT)
v Determine skills you can improve based on your performance (using your results to guide use of the free online ACT Academy prep program)
v Explore how your career aspirations align with your interests.
Please complete the attached registration form and mail or drop it off to the BHS Guidance Office, 115 Greenough St, Room 285 or 162 with a $20 check or money order payable to: Brookline High School Guidance. We do not accept cash. Also – please note - no alternative date will be offered at BHS and no other area schools are opened for PreACT testing.
The registration period starts Monday Feb 8 – Monday Feb 22. If you feel that you may qualify for a fee waiver, please let the Guidance office staff know at 617-713-5016 or contact your guidance counselor.
Sophomores
From Dean Redding –
Parents, Guardians and Caregivers of the Class of 2023 - Your students are rising juniors! Next month they will request courses for next year at BHS. Please join us on Zoom this Tuesday evening, February 9, 7:00 - 8:15 pm, to hear our curriculum coordinators discuss the course offerings that are available junior year. You will also hear from our program coordinators for ACE and SWS, as these programs are also available to your students. This meeting will be recorded and posted on the BHS website the following afternoon.
https://psbma-org.zoom.us/s/97056323590
Or join webinar with the following methods
Phone one-tap
Phone one-tap:
US: +16468769923,,97056323590# or +13017158592,,97056323590#
Join by Telephone
For higher quality, dial a number based on your current location.
Dial:
US : +1 646 876 9923 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 408 638 0968 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799
Webinar ID:
970 5632 3590
Passcode:
451959
STUDENTS IN GRADES 9-12:
PSB School Committee is offering a Listening Session for Gr 7-12 students this Monday Feb 8 @ 7pm -
Throughout the country and the world, this has been a year of significant challenges in education. The School Committee recognizes that many of you would like the opportunity to discuss your experiences, ask questions, and provide input. We value your thoughts and want to provide you with expanded opportunities to be heard.
We invite you to participate in an interactive listening session for all Brookline Grade 7-12 Students. The listening session will be held on Monday, February 8, 7:00 PM-8:30 PM. You can register for this session by clicking on this Zoom link: https://brooklinema.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_Vmik8OdLRterK_LuAxhwVQ
The listening session will last for approximately one hour and a half and will be attended by up to four members of the School Committee. All Brookline Grade 7-12 students are welcome to participate.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
Suzanne Federspiel, Chair of the School Committee
David A. Pearlman, Vice Chair of the School Committee
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).
ACE program info….. Attention BHS 9th-11th Graders - This past week, ACE is officially launching the application process for enrollment next September.
ACE, #High School Your Way, is a small, competency-based program for 55 students, grades 10-12, within BHS.
If you don't know much about ACE, you can also check out our website at:
ACE Your Way
If you are interested in applying to ACE, you need to schedule an appointment to do a zoom info. meeting and then a zoom classroom visit. Please schedule this with ACE Secretary: [email protected]
The link to the ACE application is also here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VnZl41KUmXDmF9SMmBku3tO6uDtWAxqR/view?usp=sharing The application deadline is Friday, March 5th.
We hope you will take the time to explore ACE if you feel like you need a change in your BHS high school experience.
Amy Bayer
ACE Program Coordinator
[email protected]
Last Day to complete the admissions process is this Friday 2/12!
The SWS (BHS School Within a School) admissions process is now open!
http://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/sws.html
Please take the opportunity to see if SWS could be a good fit.
School Within a School, located on the fourth floor of BHS, is an alternative, democratic community for a diverse group of approximately 120 sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Goals for students include taking as much responsibility for their education as possible, sharing decision-making in running SWS, and contributing to building a caring community. For 50 years, SWS has provided students with the opportunity to participate actively as leaders in their own educations and develop meaningful relationships with teachers based on mutual respect. Admission to SWS is based on a lottery, the criteria of which are determined by the SWS Town Meeting. In addition to Town Meeting, SWS students take at least two classes in the program, including English. They take the rest of their classes in the mainstream of BHS. More information about the program, and the admissions process, can be found at swsbrookline.org.
BHS Club information:
Greater Boston STEM Program (gbSTEM) - an enrichment program that delivers free introductory computer science and mathematics courses to elementary and middle school students in the Greater Boston area. Since March 2020, we have brought free virtual lessons to over 250 Massachusetts youth.
- We are looking for passionate high school students to join the gbSTEM community and teach classes remotely through Zoom. Volunteering as an instructor will show initiative, strengthen your resumé, and allow you to contribute to the community during this difficult and confusing time.
- Our spring semester will run from March 6th to June 19th, 2021. The deadline for instructor applications is February 28, 2021.
- Our application form and all course descriptions can be found on our website: https://gbstem.org
- If you have any questions, please contact [email protected]. We are so excited to work with you this spring. Thank you so much!
Join Sunrise Brookline! We are the Brookline Hub of the Nationwide Sunrise Movement, a movement to stop climate change and create millions of good jobs in the process. We're building an army of young people to make climate change an urgent priority across America, end the corrupting influence of fossil fuel executives on our politics, and elect leaders who stand up for the health and wellbeing of all people. As a relatively new hub, we have organized actions around political change in Brookline, including marches and lobbying groups. We are currently working on multiple projects to elect Brookline leaders that represent our values, educate our community members about environmental racism, build our hub, organize actions around climate justice, and mobilize young people to demand change.
We are hosting a welcome call on Sunday, February 7th at 1PM and Wednesday, February 10th at 8pm to learn more about Sunrise Brookline and find out how you can get involved. Sign up to come to one of the calls here: https://www.mobilize.us/sunrisemovement/event/373387/ and reach out to us if you have any questions!
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @sunrisebrookline
Valentines Day Sale Fundraiser for Boston Children's Hospital! Purchase homemade baked goods as well as chocolates for yourself or loved ones (Gluten Free available). Available for social-distanced pickup the week of February 7-13 (Tuesday and Thursday from 3-3:45) or delivery (Friday or Saturday) to any address in the Boston area. You may also include a personalized note to a loved one.
Copy and paste this form into your browser to order: https://forms.gle/obe3DssTdxaJv1j57
Thank you for supporting the kids at Boston Children's Hospital in this time of need!
Mental health Supports:
Coping groups bring together people who are going or who have gone through similar life experiences. In MassSupport's new free and confidential COVID-19 coping groups, we'll be talking about how to handle feelings of isolation and stress in a supportive space to enhance coping skills and foster a sense of connection.
Groups will last about 90 minutes and participants do the vast majority of the talking. A brief educational component is included. While our trained, caring counselors and clinicians facilitate, these groups are not therapy.
https://masssupport.org/
Our coping groups are completely free, and you can sign up for multiple groups. Register below:
Coping group for COVID-19 survivors
· February 9th, 2021 at 7:00 pm EST
· February 11th, 2021 at 11:00 am EST
Grief / Bereavement Resources for Young People and Adults -
Care Dimensions Grief /Bereavement Virtual Resources and Support –
https://www.caredimensions.org/grief-support/workshops-support-groups.cfm
See attached flyer for more info
HEARTplay.Bereavement Program is offering their first Camp HEARTplay program of 2021. We hope you will share this invitation with families in your communities who could benefit from bereavement support.
This one-day bereavement camp program will be held on zoom on Wednesday, February 17 10am-2pm and will include break-out sessions for elementary school aged children and a teen retreat, as well as optional co-occurring caregiver support groups.
The theme of this Camp HEARTplay program is "Growing Through Grief: A Day of Reflection, Connection & Creativity." The program will include age-appropriate activities and discussions for each break-out group. A portion of the day will also include an "Ask The Experts" panel of young adults who have been HEARTplay participants and mentors. These experts will share about their own experiences of growing through grief and answer questions from Camp HEARTplay participants.
As always, this program is offered at no cost to all families and is open to new and current HEARTplay participants.
Registration deadline is Monday, February 8, as we will be mailing care packages to all participants prior to the camp day. Click here for registration form: heartplayprogram.org/special-events
Please see the attached flyer or heartplayprogram.org/camp-heartplay for additional information. With questions contact Jennifer Wiles, HEARTplay Director, at 508-309-5107 or [email protected].
The BRYT Family Engagement Team is excited to share their NEW and IMPROVED Parents Supporting Parents FLYER. Flyer is also attached.
Students - Feeling down? Always anxious or worried? Concerned about someone else in your life – friend, family member? Not sleeping well because your mind can’t shut down? If these questions sound familiar, please don’t worry alone.
Guidance/school counselors and other clinical support staff at Brookline High are here to listen, assess, and support you so you are not carrying these burdens alone. Please reach out to your counselor. You can also reach out to a BHS faculty member (including Darby Neff-Verre – Coordinator of BHS Guidance/Counseling) to start the conversation about how we can help you build strategies or get connected to feel safe and better about your situation. Contact your counselor at their email, zoom visiting hours, or phone.
COVID Related Resources
Mutual Aid Brookline shares this information…
FREE SERVICES
211 COVID Vaccine Appointment Assistance Over the Phone - Ongoing - Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
A new Vaccine Scheduling Resource Line has been launched to help residents 75 and older more easily schedule an appointment if they do not have internet or are unable to use the website at www.mass.gov/COVIDVaccine.
The call center will be staffed with over 500 representatives who can provide live phone support to assist residents with booking an appointment.
The line will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Live call center workers will be available in English and Spanish, and 100 additional languages will be available through translators. Call center workers will have the same access to appointments that users will see on the public website.
The line can be accessed by dialing 2–1–1 and selecting the prompt for “Help Scheduling a Vaccine Appointment.” Residents may have to wait on the line given expected high call volume.
Brookline COVID Vaccine Resources - Ongoing - Department of Public Health
There is a Brookline Vaccine Resource Hub call center! The call center will be 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 now 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/.
Click here to fill out the official Town questionnaire to learn more about when you can expect to be eligible for a vaccine: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfpp2nBq8tIA5fEezJsW4mrAAlzVwEp-c0zkHIXKHUYjKFJyA/viewform. In addition, those who complete the questionnaire can sign up for updates on how they can be vaccinated when they’re eligible.
Statewide COVID Vaccine Resources - Ongoing - Compiled by MAB
If you are eligible in Phase 1 or activated groups in Phase 2, available sites and appointments are listed here: https://www.maimmunizations.org/. If you aren't sure if/when you will be eligible, look here first: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine.
Appointments are posted regularly to the MA Immunizations site but tend to go very quickly. New appointments at local mass vaccination sites (Fenway and Gillette) are posted on THURSDAYS.
Check with your primary care physician (PCP) about their plans for their patients, unless they have already contacted you or sent out an email. (See below for messages from major medical providers in/near Brookline.) We will send out information about public Brookline vaccine clinics when it is available.
Mass General Brigham (accurate as of 02.05): COVID-19 vaccine appointments are currently available for eligible patients. If you received an invitation for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, please schedule your appointment at a Mass General Brigham vaccine clinic that is convenient for you. The easiest way to do this is through Patient Gateway. All vaccine appointment scheduling is being done at a central location for all our hospitals and clinics. Please do not contact your doctor's office about vaccine appointments. See https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/covid19/vaccine for updates.
Boston Medical Center (accurate as of 02.06): Phase 2 began on February 1. BMC patients who are eligible are now getting messages from their doctor's office telling them they can get a vaccine. This may be a text message, email, or phone call. You may also be eligible to get the vaccine at a state vaccination site; you can find more details here. See https://www.bmc.org/covid-19-vaccine for updates.
Beth Israel Lahey Health (accurate as of 02.06): We have opened a number of vaccine clinics across Eastern Massachusetts and will be offering vaccine appointments to eligible Massachusetts patients who have recently received care from a Beth Israel Lahey Health hospital, physician practice or affiliated provider. We will contact patients individually by email, phone or text when they are able to receive the vaccine based on Massachusetts state guidelines and the number of vaccine doses available. Vaccines will not be available at doctor’s offices or hospitals. See https://coronavirus.bilh.org/vaccine/ for updates.
Atrius Health (accurate as of 02.06): At this time, Atrius Health has not yet received sufficient vaccine supply from the state, and we are unable to begin scheduling appointments for our patients 75 and older. We are hopeful we will receive vaccine in mid-February so that we can begin scheduling appointments for this priority group soon. Our practices have more than 40,000 patients who are in the 75 and older group. When we receive vaccine, we will begin general outreach to our patients 75 and older through MyHealth (our patient portal), our public website, social media, email, and other channels to invite them to schedule appointments. See https://www.atriushealth.org/health-and-wellness/wellness-information/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine for updates.
Summer Opportunities 2021 for BHS students– Summer is only 4 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 her 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! They are also offering a virtual summer opportunities fair on Feb 25 from 6-8:45pm. Registration is required - https://www.teenlife.com/summer-virtual-fair/
RESOURCES FOR REMOTE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES FOR BHS STUDENTS:
Brookline Cares - Empowerment Coats winter drive
Brookline Cares is a student-run, volunteer organization started by Brookline High School students. Our organization promotes awareness, fundraises, and accepts donations of winter clothing to donate to people in need. The clothing collected is given to people in communities with high rates of COVID-19 in the Greater Boston area. We are urgently raising money through a GoFundMe to purchase Empowerment coats to give out to people in communities with high rates of COVID. These communities also have high rates of poverty and homelessness. Empowerment coats are coats that convert into sleeping bags and can be used by people experiencing homelessness or people who do not have shelter. Visit their website for more information: https://www.empowermentplan.org/the-coat. The coats will be distributed by Mass General to people in Revere, Chelsea, Lynn, Charlestown, and Everett through their mobile testing vans. If you want to help make a positive difference in the world we live in, then this is the perfect cause to donate to. Please visit our page for more information: https://brooklinecares.wixsite.com/home
Updated Inspo:Expo Online Volunteer Match – Here is the link to see a list of Inspo:Expo partners who have remote (or low social contact) volunteer opportunities: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EjWNx3AF7i4wkbVoLizNQ4NwGnHNcmLpbb_PAvBoeoI/edit
If you scroll through and see something you're interested in, simply email the organization directly through their listed contact info.
Try checking out this community service link from the free resource Teen Life - https://www.teenlife.com/category/volunteer/volunteer-boston/
Career Exploration at BHS:
Careers in Health Science: On Tuesday 2/9 during X block come to the Virtual College and Career Center to hear from Sonia Laurie, a postdoctoral fellow in the Seeding Postdoctoral Innovators in Research & Education Program at The University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, where she studies epigenetic regulation of immune cells in graft-versus-host disease after bone marrow transplantation. Sonia also teaches undergraduate biology courses. Sonia will talk about her career journey and more! We hope to see you there!
If you are interested in attending this Coffee Talk please email Ms. Kennedy, [email protected] from your school email for the zoom link.
The College and Career Center at Brookline High School is seeking community support for our Career Exploration and Immersion Program (CEIP). The goal of the CEIP is to build intentional connections between the professional expertise in our community and the students, teachers, and programs who seek understanding of and experience with the current professional landscape. The CEIP focuses on a two-fold mission: to bring experts into classrooms and/or the Career Center, as well as to bring students into the professional setting through career exploration and immersion activities.
https://forms.gle/94SfA1CrXYudhSGZ9
MassBay STEM stories - Learn more about the programs MassBay Community College offers in their STEM Division. To view our current Associate Degree and Certificate programs, please go to: https://www.massbay.edu/stem. The focus in on why this is a good time to consider pursuing an education/career in STEM. There are pre-recorded videos where students “meet” STEM faculty and students and see some of their labs. One of the videos is of a former biotech student speaking about this program. Another video is of a MassBay graduate who is an Engineer, now working in the wind energy field. There is an overview about the supports Mass Bay offers students and the smart economics of starting at a community college, regardless of where students want to end up.
Genetic Counseling Career opportunity for students… Want to learn about the vastly growing health profession of genetic counseling? Genetic counselors are health care professionals who:
· Help people understand hereditary diseases
· Facilitate decision making about genetic testing
· Provide emotional support to patients
Genetic counseling has multiple specialties and is a growing field with excellent job availability. More information about this career can also be found online at https://www.nsgc.org/page/frequently-asked-questions-students.
The Division for Cancer Genetics and Prevention at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is hosting a free virtual career day to provide more information about genetic counseling on Saturday, February 27th, 2021. The event will be held virtually over zoom and all are welcome to attend.
Interested individuals can register online at: https://genetic-counseling-career-day-2021.eventbrite.com
If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact us at [email protected].
SENIORS
12th graders – take a look at this short and sweet article – “Dear High School Seniors- What NOT to Do Spring of Your Senior Year” - https://grownandflown.com/high-school-seniors-not-do-spring-senior-year/ It’s hard not to do some of these things when senioritis strikes but be mindful of these points… They’re all true! And please don’t forget to have some fun, even in these strange times!
Midyear grades to colleges and other guidance department requests:
1) BHS will automatically send midyear (semester 2) grades to all the colleges that are on your Naviance (Colleges I am Applying To). You only need to complete one transcript release form for each school--after that, we send your grades automatically. (For example, Lenny completed the trasncript release form to BU in September, and now all of Lenny's grades wil be send there as they become available).
2) Please add your college results to naviance: go to Colleges I am Applying To, click on Edit (Pencil sign)
3) If you got into a school and you are 100% sure you will not go there, please let them know (especially if this is a state school). Colleges are experiencing a huge increase in applications this year, and are therefore using waitlist and deferals a lot--so your email might help another student get in.
Interested in applying to Framingham State University? You have a great opportunity to get accepted on the spot at Framingham State University…. Join FSU and BHS for a Virtual Admissions Decision Day. Register to meet with an FSU admissions representative to discuss your application and receive your decision (please note, in some cases FSU will not be able to provide a decision at the time of meeting, but will let you know what your next steps are. Application fees will be waived for participating applicants). Here are the steps:
1) Make an appointment for the zoom session. Important: this will be a zoom meeting with the FSU Admissions Counselor who makes the admission decisions. Please come on time & represent BHS well.
2) Complete Commonapp.org for FSU, or FSU’s own application. Framingham State does not require an essay. To get the fee waiver, there is a question on both the FSU App, and then on the Common App (in the FSU questions) that asks if you are eligible for a school specific waiver. Select "official campus visit." It's okay if you submit the app before the meeting, once the meeting takes place FSU will make sure the app fee is waived.
3) Complete the transcript release form, & email Mr. Libenzon ([email protected]) to indicate that you will attend the on-the-spot session.
Senior portraits for yearbook – DEADLINE EXTENDED to 2/28/21! A little more time has been added for seniors to submit your senior portraits. The new deadline is February 28th. Don't wait until the last minute for this extended date! The yearbook staff needs your prompt submissions so we can meet our deadlines and get the book to you on time! We know that many of you just had your pictures taken by Prestige and are waiting for proofs. Please complete the rest of the google form for now and leave out the senior portrait. We will be able to see your selected yearbook portrait and download it from the Prestige site.
SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION FOR SENIORS…. Below is the partial list of scholarships available to qualified students. You can find many more scholarships on goingmerry.com, fastweb.com and through your student’s Naviance account, under Scholarships & Money.
BHS Scholarships
The Brookline High School Scholarship Committee announces that applications are now available for tuition scholarships to Boston University (2 full-tuition renewable scholarships) and Northeastern University (2 half-tuition renewable scholarships). Applications are available online at the BHS homepage under BHS Scholarship Application. Applications must be completed ASAP. 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
NOTE: If you would like to be considered for the BU or Northeastern scholarships and have not yet applied, you must do so ASAP and submit your CSS Profile. The Committee is in the process of reviewing applicants now. Let Ms. Whelan know if you have questions - her email is [email protected]
The Scholarship Committee would like parents to know that we use 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. The deadline for applying for BHS scholarships for students attending ANY OTHER college is April 1. Please use the same application as above.
Point Foundation National LGBTQ Scholarship. Point Foundation considers many factors when assessing scholarship applicants, including working for the betterment of the LGBTQ community and financial need. To apply go to: https://pointfoundation.org/point-apply/application-faqs/
Henry David Thoreau Foundation If you are planning on pursuing an interest in the environmental field, you may be eligible for up to $20,000 from the Henry David Thoreau Foundation. More information and applications are available online at http://www.thoreauscholar.org/student/application.html
Yawkey Scholars Program If you plan to attend a private college, have mentored someone during high school, have faced significant challenges and/or obstacles and have significant financial need, you may be eligible to receive a Yawkey Foundation Scholarship. To access the application go to: https://www.tpi.org/what-we-do/scholarships-college-success
Red Pine Scholarship The Red Pine Scholarship supports students from low- to middle-income families in Massachusetts who have demonstrated academic excellence to attend competitive colleges. Please make sure that you are eligible for the scholarship by reviewing the Guidelines and Eligibility Requirements. For more information go to: https://www.tpi.org/what-we-do/scholarships-college-success
The National Catholic College Admission Association Scholarship The National CCAA Scholarship is awarded to eight college-going high school seniors from various geographic regions attending one of our member institutions. http://www.catholiccollegesonline.org/students-parents/financial-aid/nccaa-scholarship.html
Caring.com Scholarship. Caring.com is a senior care organization that seeks to support family caregivers, their loved ones, and professionals in the senior care community. They have scholarship resources that could be useful for potential nursing students.
Scholarships for Undocumented Students. The list contains 344 undergraduate scholarships that do not require proof of citizenship or legal permanent residency. Undocumented students pursuing higher education need to know that scholarships and fellowships are available to them—regardless of their immigration status. https://immigrantsrising.org/2020scholarships/
Are you still trying to figure out what your plans are after graduation? If the answer is yes, check out the opportunity to serve with City Year. City Year is a one-year program where you work full-time in an urban Elementary, Middle, or High School bridging the gap between the support that students actually need and what their schools are designed and resourced to provide. They are looking for folks that have a passion for working with youth and would be willing to work hard to help them to see their full potential. They partner with schools and districts to identify students who are at risk of not graduating on time with their peers, and provide them with extra academic, emotional, and social support, and the skills that they need to be successful for college and a career. To learn more about City Year contact recruitment manager, Kristen Hill, at [email protected]
When your college financial aid package arrives, please join MEFA (MA Educational Financing Authority)…… After the College Acceptance
Thursday, March 18, 2021 | 7:00pm - 8:00pm
This webinar provides valuable guidance for high school seniors who have received their college acceptance letters and financial aid offers and are trying to make the college decision. Topics include an overview of different types of financial aid, an explanation of how to calculate the balance due at each college, and methods for paying the college bill. Register at : https://www.mefa.org/events/after-the-college-acceptance2
The alternate date is Thursday, April 08, 7pm. Register at
https://www.mefa.org/events/after-the-college-acceptance4
Thinking about a post grad path that is NOT college specific? Check in with your counselor and/or Kate Kennedy, the BHS Career Counselor, for ideas and resources.
JUNIORS
Junior seminars with your counselor have started. The third seminar will be on Monday 2/22 from 1-2pm to review your unofficial transcript and to discuss course scheduling for senior year. See you then! We encourage you to contact your counselor for a 1:1 zoom meeting starting in February.
BHS Librarians are offering….. FREE online ACT/ SAT/ TOEFL test prep support starting Thurs Feb 11. Check out the attached flyer and register here - https://forms.gle/2y1uxvhMs9j7xW2M7
College Board is offering a series of virtual regional college fairs over the next 6 weeks. Cut and paste this link to get more information and register - https://pages.collegeboard.org/big-future-days?SFMC_cid=EM438518-&rid=47663053
Save the DatesYou can attend any event and more than one. Explore your college options in each region!
BigFuture Days Southeast Tuesday, February 23
BigFuture Days Northeast Sunday, March 7
BigFuture Days Midwest Thursday, March 11
Juniors - Please review your current unofficial transcript for any missing classes or errors. Contact your counselor with any questions or concerns.
You should be checking that you are on your way to earning all required credits towards graduation in June 2022.
English- 4 credits
Science - 3 credits
Social Studies/History - 3 credits including US History
Math - 3 credits (4 years required for UMass State colleges/universities)
World Language - 2 credits (same language)
Elective - 3 credits distributed across Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Career/Tech, Community Service
Wellness - .5 Lifetime Wellness, 3 - .25 wellness credits
+ additional credits to earn minimum total credits of 22
JUNIORS AND SOPHOMORES
PreACT at BHS is on!
The PreACT will be administered at Brookline High on the morning of Saturday, February 27th from 7:45-11:30 am.
The PreACT is a shorter practice version of the ACT college admissions test, normed for sophomores in high school. The PreACT also offers a built-in career interest inventory. Each student taking the test will have the opportunity to:
v Identify current academic readiness for college and career using the PreACT report
v Predict how you’ll perform on the ACT after an additional junior year of learning (predictive quality of test is different for juniors since they already are having that “additional year” of curriculum as defined by the ACT)
v Determine skills you can improve based on your performance (using your results to guide use of the free online ACT Academy prep program)
v Explore how your career aspirations align with your interests.
Please complete the attached registration form and mail or drop it off to the BHS Guidance Office, 115 Greenough St, Room 285 or 162 with a $20 check or money order payable to: Brookline High School Guidance. We do not accept cash. Also – please note - no alternative date will be offered at BHS and no other area schools are opened for PreACT testing.
The registration period starts Monday Feb 8 – Monday Feb 22. If you feel that you may qualify for a fee waiver, please let the Guidance office staff know at 617-713-5016 or contact your guidance counselor.
Sophomores
From Dean Redding –
Parents, Guardians and Caregivers of the Class of 2023 - Your students are rising juniors! Next month they will request courses for next year at BHS. Please join us on Zoom this Tuesday evening, February 9, 7:00 - 8:15 pm, to hear our curriculum coordinators discuss the course offerings that are available junior year. You will also hear from our program coordinators for ACE and SWS, as these programs are also available to your students. This meeting will be recorded and posted on the BHS website the following afternoon.
https://psbma-org.zoom.us/s/97056323590
Or join webinar with the following methods
Phone one-tap
Phone one-tap:
US: +16468769923,,97056323590# or +13017158592,,97056323590#
Join by Telephone
For higher quality, dial a number based on your current location.
Dial:
US : +1 646 876 9923 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 408 638 0968 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799
Webinar ID:
970 5632 3590
Passcode:
451959