Skip to main content

Northeast Metro Tech: Weekly Newsletter - 3/21/25

Posted Date: 3/21/25 (5:10 PM)

Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational High School

Weekly Newsletter: 3/21/25

Black Week: The Week of Monday, March 24, 2025

Grades 9 & 11: Shops (Remember to follow the dress code)
Grades 10 & 12: Academics
Northeast Knights
NEMT Website
 

Gavin Ford Celebrated for Signing with the University of Illinois

On Monday, March 17, senior Gavin Ford, a Drafting and Design student, was honored for his commitment to the University of Illinois, where he will compete as a member of the men’s wheelchair basketball team on an athletic scholarship. His dedication both on and off the court has been outstanding, demonstrating athletic excellence, academic ambition, and a commitment to advocacy.

At Illinois, Gavin will major in Sustainable Design, focusing on improving accessibility through architecture to create more inclusive spaces for individuals with disabilities. Beyond his achievements in wheelchair basketball and sled hockey, he is an adaptive sports and disability awareness advocate, traveling to schools and organizations to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Gavin’s passion for sports, education, and advocacy makes him an inspiration to all. Congratulations, Gavin. We look forward to your continued success.
Gavin Ford
Gavin Ford
 

Cosmetology Students Visit Salon Direct Education

Sophomore and junior Cosmetology students recently visited Salon Direct Education at Boston Beauty in Middleton, MA, where they participated in hands-on learning experiences focused on advanced styling techniques. Sophomores learned from Salon Direct educators about innovative tape-in extension applications, while juniors explored flexi rods and the modern “Not Your Mama’s” perm with Curl Cult. Working in small groups, students practiced their skills under expert guidance and received styling product gifts and exclusive in-store discount cards, which were a special perk of being part of the Northeast Cosmetology program.
Cosmo
Cosmo
cosmo
cosmo
 

Business Technology Students Film Employment Readiness Show at Revere TV

On Friday, March 14, junior Business Technology students visited Revere TV to film an episode designed to support teenagers seeking employment. Their program covered key aspects of workplace professionalism, including interview preparation, dressing for success, and the importance of ethical behavior. Revere Mayor Patrick Keefe and Northeast School Committee member Anthony Caggiano attended the filming, adding a special highlight to the experience. Business Technology students were proud to showcase their professionalism and workplace expertise.
BT
 
Sandra Carreno

ELE Department Head Sandra Carreno to be Honored by North Shore Hispanic Association

Congratulations to ELE Department Head Sandra Carreno on being named a North Shore Hispanic Association (NSHA) 2025 Outstanding Hispanic American Honoree. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant cultural, educational, and economic contributions, paving the way for others in their communities.

Ms. Carreno’s dedication to advocacy, student growth, and relationship-building has made a profound impact on Northeast students. She empowers multilingual learners to develop communicative and linguistic competence in English by providing the necessary supports to help them excel in academic classrooms and shop spaces while maintaining high expectations. Her commitment ensures that students receive the guidance and encouragement they need to thrive.

Ms. Carreno will be honored at a celebration on Thursday, April 24, at the Irish American Club in Malden. Congratulations, Ms. Carreno, on this well-deserved recognition.
 

Northeast Seniors Earn SAiL Credentials at Gillette Stadium

On Thursday, March 20, 2025, Northeast seniors attended the SkillsUSA Senior Adventures in Leadership (SAiL) Conference at Gillette Stadium, where they spent the day connecting with vocational students from across the state, engaging with potential employers, and participating in a variety of impactful workshops. Sessions included Financial Foundations, Real World Ready, Selling Yourself, Meet the Employers, and Navigating Networking, all focused on leadership, career readiness, and communication skills. We are proud to share that 100% of Northeast participants earned their SAiL Credential by passing a 50-question exam and successfully graduating from the program. Their professionalism and enthusiasm throughout the day were outstanding as they represented Northeast with pride.
Sail
Sail
 
bus

Bus Registration Now Open for the 2025-2026 School Year

The registration window for NEMT bus transportation for the 2025-26 school year is now open. Families with students in grades 9–11 must complete the online registration form to secure transportation. For families with more than one student, a separate form must be submitted for each student. Submitting this information allows us to plan bus routes and coordinate with Eastern Bus to ensure adequate transportation services are available.

Register here: Bus Registration Form

The original registration deadline has passed, but the form will remain open for two more weeks to accommodate families.

Please complete the form as soon as possible. If you have any questions, contact Laura Ratcliffe at lratcliffe@northeastmetrotech.com or 781-246-0810 ext 1607.
 

AP Course Selection Informational Meeting - Monday, March 24, 2025

Students in the Classes of 2026, 2027, and 2028 interested in taking AP courses next year are invited to attend an informational meeting on Monday, March 24, from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. This meeting will provide important details about AP coursework, expectations, and the benefits of enrolling in advanced placement classes, helping students make informed decisions about their course selection.

Available AP Courses for 2025-2026:
🔹 Sophomores - U.S. History 10
🔹 Juniors - Language and Composition, Statistics, Computer Science Principles, U.S. History 11
🔹 Seniors - Literature and Composition, Calculus AB, Physics, Psychology

Please view the Northeast Program of Studies for course descriptions. Families with questions should contact their student’s counselor.
 

MCAS Grade 10 Testing Information

In March, grade 10 students will take the first round of MCAS testing. Throughout the year, students in the Class of 2027 have engaged in learning activities designed to prepare them for the ELA and Mathematics MCAS tests. To further support their success, students are strongly encouraged to complete the online practice tests.

In the weeks leading up to the ELA MCAS test, grade 10 English teachers will share information about testing procedures and preparation strategies. Students will be reminded to get eight hours of sleep each night, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive at school before 7:45 a.m. so they are not rushed and have ample time to get settled. The use of electronic devices, including cell phones and smartwatches, is strictly prohibited during testing. If used, scores will be invalidated. Families are encouraged to discuss these guidelines with students. Most importantly, we wish grade 10 students the best as they demonstrate their learning.

Spring 2025 MCAS Grade 10 Test Dates (Statewide Testing Schedule)
📌ELA Session 1 - Tuesday, March 25
📌ELA Session 2 - Wednesday, March 26
📌Mathematics Session 1 - Tuesday, May 20
📌Mathematics Session 2 - Wednesday, May 21

MCAS Participation & Graduation Requirements
Participation in the MCAS is required by state and federal law. Test results will be used for school accountability purposes and eligibility for scholarships such as the Adams Scholarship, the Stanley Z. Koplik Certificate of Mastery, and the State Seal of Biliteracy. The new law did not change this requirement for students to test, and DESE’s accountability system will continue to use assessment participation rates, achievement, and growth data in annual district and school evaluations.

Students are no longer required to pass the MCAS as a graduation requirement. However, they must still earn a Competency Determination (CD) by meeting local graduation standards. This includes satisfactory completion of coursework that demonstrates mastery in English Language Arts, Mathematics, and at least one Science discipline (Biology, Chemistry, Introductory Physics, or Technology/Engineering). For detailed information about earning a CD, click here to view the Commissioner's Update on Student Competency Determinations.

Important Reminders for Grade 10 MCAS Testing:
✅ If your Chromebook is damaged, turn it in to the Tech Office as soon as possible.
✅ Bring your fully charged Chromebook to school each day.
✅ Ask your English and math teachers questions about MCAS testing.
✅ Review information about test design and development.
Practice online at home to familiarize yourself with the testing format.

For any questions regarding MCAS testing, please contact Joseph O’Brien, test coordinator, at jobrien@northeastmetrotech.com or (781) 246-0810 ext. 1649.

Click on the image below to access the links.
MCAS ELA Boot Camp
 

Grade 12 Late Start for MCAS Testing - Tuesday, March 25 & Wednesday, March 26

On Tuesday, March 25, and Wednesday, March 26, grade 12 students will have a three-hour late start due to MCAS Grade 10 ELA testing. A bus run has been added, with buses arriving three hours later than their regular arrival time to accommodate this schedule.

Seniors should arrive at 11:00 a.m. and report directly to their Related classes for attendance with their shop department head. They will remain in Related until 11:31 a.m., at which time they will transition to lunch or their D block class. For the remainder of the day, seniors will follow their regular academic schedule.

Please note this late start applies only to grade 12 students. On these MCAS testing days, grade 10 students will test in the morning and follow their academic schedule once testing is complete. Grade 9 and 11 students will be in shops, as it is a Black Week. Grade 11 students on co-op should report to their placements as usual.
 
Substance Abuse Awareness
Randi Schuster

Save the Date: Substance Use Prevention Awareness Night

📅 When: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
👥 Who: Northeast Parents, Guardians, and Students
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Northeast Metro Tech Cafeteria

We cordially invite Northeast parents, guardians, and students to attend our upcoming Substance Use Prevention Awareness Night. This essential event is designed to equip our community with valuable knowledge and tools to support our youth in making healthy choices.

Guest Speaker: Randi Schuster Ph.D
Dr. Schuster’s work aims to define the cognitive predecessors of adolescent substance use, effects of substance use on cognitive performance, and how these and other factors (e.g., genetics and environment) affect treatment engagement and functional (e.g., academic) outcomes. Her work explores the behavioral and biological mechanisms underlying risk for adverse outcomes secondary to early substance exposure, with a particular emphasis on vulnerable sub-populations including adolescents with and at risk for neuropsychiatric illness.

Event Highlights:
  • Interactive workshops for students and parents
  • Information booths from local support organizations
  • Free take-home resources and materials
Don't miss this great opportunity to empower your teen. Together, we can ensure our students are prepared for a safe, responsible, and healthy future.
 

Student Activity and Participation Survey

We are excited to provide Northeast students the opportunity to share feedback on their participation and interest in extracurricular activities. A brief survey (2-3 minutes) will be shared with students to help us better understand their preferences and explore ways to enhance our after-school programs.

📅 Survey Date (During English Classes): Grade 10 & 12 (Black Week): Thursday, March 27

This survey ensures students have a voice in shaping future activities. If you have any questions, please reach out to Joe O'Brien at jobrien@northeastmetrotech.com. Thank you for your support in enriching student life at Northeast.
 

Junior Prom Tickets - Deadline Friday, March 28, 2025

The Northeast Class of 2026 Junior Prom will be held on Friday, April 4, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Spinelli's in Lynnfield. Tickets are $65 each and must be purchased by Friday, March 28, at 2:30 p.m. Students must pick up a permission slip/contract from Mr. Dicks in Office C, which outlines important information and expectations for students and their guests. For questions, please contact Junior Class Advisor Dawon Dicks at ddicks@northeastmetrotech.com.
 

2 Hour Delay: Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Wednesday, April 9, is a scheduled 2-hour delay for professional development. Buses will arrive two hours later than their regular arrival time. The academic blocks for the day will be C, D, A, and B.
2 hour delay
 

A Message From DESE: FAFSA and MASFA Reminder

Now is the time for high school seniors to fill out their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or, for students who are eligible non-citizens, the Massachusetts Application for Student Financial Aid (MASFA). Both applications can make higher education more affordable. All federal and state student aid and some private sources require completion of FAFSA. Students must complete these documents for no-cost community college through MassEducate or access to MassGrantPlus, which can greatly reduce the cost of attendance for low and middle income students interested in Massachusetts public four-year colleges and universities. More details about FAFSA-related events are available on DESE and MEFA websites.
FAFSA
 

Virtual Financial Aid Sessions for High School Seniors

✅ Wednesday, April 16 | 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

The Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority (MEFA) will host its second virtual Financial Aid Offer Hotline event from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 16 to help college-bound students and their families understand financial aid offers. Each student/family will meet with a financial aid expert to walk through each college financial aid offer the student has received, calculate the estimated balance due at each school, and consider their options for paying the remaining college costs. Families can drop in virtually to the event. Interested students and families can register online.
 

College Planning App from College Guidance Network (CGN)

Below is information from our Counseling Department to support families in navigating the college planning process. For additional assistance, please contact your student’s counselor or Counseling Department Head Rose Ruiz at rruiz@northeastmetrotech.com.

We’re excited to announce the launch of ParentGPS, a free mobile app now available for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
 
Why It Matters: Whether parents have questions about financial aid, application deadlines, career paths, or anything in between, ParentGPS is there to help 24/7—anytime, anywhere. Now, the parents you support can log in and receive expert-backed answers instantly, freeing counselors to focus on more impactful, 1-on-1 sessions.
  • The same Eva you trust—the conversational AI counseling assistant, trained by 300+ college & career experts.
  • 24/7 availability, providing expert answers on admissions, financial aid, careers, parent-teen dynamics, and more.
  • Relevant expert videos and Pdfs included in Eva’s responses.
  • Notebook on-the-go—Save your favorite and most-reference answers all in one place.
 
April Break

April Break: Friday, April 18 - Friday, April 25, 2025

Northeast Metro Tech's April vacation will take place from Friday, April 18, through Friday, April 25. School will resume on Monday, April 28. As the days grow longer and the warmer weather settles in, we hope all students, families, faculty, and staff enjoy a restful and well-deserved break filled with sunshine and relaxation.
 

Yearbook Orders

Saturday, March 1, was the final day for families to purchase a yearbook online. After this date, yearbooks may still be available for in-person purchase on a first-come, first-served basis for $95 with Ms. Pickles in Business Technology. The yearbook features students from all grades.

Order online here: Northeast Metro Tech Yearbooks
 
Ringer's Auto School

Driver's Education at NEMT

Ringer's Auto School is offering driver’s education at NEMT from Tuesday, May 13, to Thursday, June 12, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:30-5:30 p.m. Students will be released in time for the late buses, which are available for Northeast students only. The minimum age to enroll is 15 years and 9 months old. Click here for registration and payment information.
 

Early College Program Offers Exciting Opportunities for Students

Northeast Metro Tech is thrilled to announce its Early College partnership with Middlesex Community College and Boston Architectural College, enabling students to earn both college and high school credits simultaneously at no cost. Currently, over 100 Northeast students are enrolled in Biology, Chemistry, and Drafting and Design courses taught at a college level by Northeast faculty. We are actively exploring additional course offerings for the 2025-2026 school year and will share more details soon.

For questions or more information, please contact:

Joseph O’Brien, Program Coordinator: 📧 jobrien@northeastmetrotech.com | 📞 781-246-0810 ext. 1649
Lou Delgaudio, Program Liaison: 📧 ldegaudio@northeastmetrotech.com | 📞 781-246-0810 ext. 1307
 

Get Involved at Northeast - The Power of Extracurricular Activities

We encourage all students to explore and participate in extracurricular activities, whether it's joining a club, playing a sport, or engaging in community service. These opportunities are more than just enjoyable, they play a vital role in personal growth, well-being, and development.

Extracurricular involvement helps students build leadership skills, foster teamwork, and gain confidence in a supportive environment. It also promotes time management and problem-solving abilities, which benefit students academically and prepare them for future challenges. Additionally, participation cultivates a sense of belonging and connection to the school community, helping students form lasting friendships and create lifelong memories.

For more insights into how extracurriculars can benefit students, view this article from Child Focus.

All students are encouraged to discover their passions, enhance their well-being, and get involved in extracurricular activities. For more information about athletics and clubs, visit the Northeast website and click the Parents & Students tab. Families are welcome to contact their student’s counselor for assistance in exploring available opportunities.
 
Attendance Works

Be Present: Make Every Day Count

Attending school every day is vital for student success. Regular attendance keeps students on track, builds strong habits, and strengthens their connection with the school community. Missing just two days a month - whether excused or unexcused - can quickly lead to chronic absenteeism and significant learning loss.

Families needing support are encouraged to contact us. View this helpful resource from Attendance Works for tips and strategies to support student attendance. Let’s work together to ensure consistent attendance and a successful start to the new year.
 

Upcoming Events

March
  • MCAS ELA Grade 10 Test, Session 1: Tuesday, March 25
  • MCAS ELA Grade 10 Test, Session 2: Wednesday, March 26
  • Substance Use Prevention Awareness Night: Wednesday, March 26
April
  • Junior Prom at Spinelli's: Friday, April 4
  • 2 Hour Delay - Professional Development: Wednesday, April 9
  • April Break - No School: Friday, April 18 through Friday, April 25
May
  • SkillsUSA State Competition: Thursday, May 1 through Saturday, May 3
  • Progress Reports - Trimester 3: Friday, May 2
  • Faculty Meeting: Monday, May 5
  • AP Exams: Monday, May 5 through Friday, May 16
  • Spring Program Advisory: Wednesday, May 7
  • Northeast Metro Tech Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony: Wednesday, May 14
  • Scholarship Night: Monday, May 19
  • MCAS Mathematics Grade 10 Test, Session 1: Tuesday, May 20
  • MCAS Mathematics Grade 10 Test, Session 2: Wednesday, May 21
  • Memorial Day - No School: Monday, May 26
 

After-School Academic Support

After-school academic support is offered for all subjects. Students can get the extra help they need to succeed, whether it’s for a challenging class, test preparation, or Early College courses.

  • Sessions (schedule) will be held Tuesday through Thursday in the Library from 2:35 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • Students can take the 3:30 buses home after the session.
Students are encouraged to take advantage of this great opportunity to enhance their learning.
 

Jim Wallace Breakheart Inn Restaurant

All are invited to the Breakheart Inn Restaurant, open to the public Tuesday through Friday. Come enjoy our delicious food and friendly service. Reservations for parties of up to 5 people, as well as gift cards and lunch orders, can be placed online.

Bakery Hours (Tuesday - Friday):
  • 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
  • 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Lunch Service (Tuesday - Friday):
  • 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Please note that all outside guests must sign in at the Main Entrance upon arrival.
 

Automotive Service Customers Welcome

Auto Tech is accepting customer vehicles for services such as preventive maintenance, brake service, tires, alignment, and driveability concerns. Appointments are available Monday through Friday. To schedule, please contact Paul Murphy, auto tech department head, at pmurphy@northeastmetrotech.com.

Click here to donate your vehicle to Second Chance Cars.
Engine Image
 
NE Things

NE Things School Store

Show your school spirit and gear up with the latest merchandise while enjoying a 10% discount every Tuesday. Sales are available in person from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. daily and online 24/7. Don’t miss the chance to show off your Northeast Knights pride!
 

Massachusetts Partnerships for Youth (MPY) - Parenting Solutions Library

MPY, in partnership with Peace At Home Parenting Solutions, is pleased to offer free resources that provide insights and strategies to support family and student success both in and out of school. Families can access a library of videos and handouts, available in English and Spanish, featuring easy-to-use, evidence-based strategies that promote lasting, positive change. Click here for more information and to access the library of resources. 
 

Eastern Bus Company - Drivers Needed

Eastern Bus Company is hiring bus drivers at a starting rate of $34.25 per hour with a guaranteed 25 hours per week (2.5 hours in the morning and 2.5 hours in the afternoon). A CDL B with a school bus endorsement is required. If you don’t have one, Eastern Bus Company offers training in Billerica and will assist with testing in exchange for a two-year contract.

Drivers can also earn extra with charters at a rate of $24.00 per hour, with 6 hours guaranteed during the week and 8 hours on the weekend.

For more information, please contact:
Jessica Guadalupe
📞 781-395-2515 | 📧 jguadalupe@easternbusco.com
Bus
 
Buses

Busing Information

Bus routes and schedules can be found on the NEMT website under the Parents & Students tab. Please ensure that students arrive at their bus stop 10 minutes prior to the scheduled time. Please contact Administrative Assistant Laura Ratcliffe at (781) 246-0810 ext. 1607 with questions or concerns.
 
no parking

Attention Student Drivers: No Parking in the Lot Across from Landrigan Field

This is a reminder that the parking lot across from Landrigan Field (formerly J Lot) is exclusively for Wakefield Memorial High School students. Vehicles parked in this lot without a WMHS hanging placard are subject to towing per the Town of Wakefield.
 

Student Parking

At this time, parking spaces allotted for students have been filled. Members of the Senior Class who complete the Student Parking Application Form (using their Northeast email account) will be added to a waitlist. Grade 12 students on the waitlist will be contacted in the order of submission if student parking spaces become available.

As a reminder, spaces reserved for students are located in sections A and A2 on this image. All student vehicles parked on Northeast Metro Tech property must have a parking sticker properly displayed (affixed to the windshield above the inspection sticker on the passenger side). Detailed student parking information and expectations can be found by viewing this document.
Parking lot
 
No phone zone

Cell Phone Policy

Students are expected to engage in learning opportunities in each class/shop throughout the school day. Cell phones and smartwatches distract students from participating in lessons, completing assignments, contributing to class discussions, and collaborating with teachers and classmates. Unsanctioned cell phone/smartwatch use during instructional time is prohibited. All learning spaces, including classrooms and shop areas, are equipped with cell phone holders near the teacher’s desk, where students must place their silenced devices upon arrival. Violations, including unauthorized photographing or video recording, may result in disciplinary action. Students are permitted to use their devices during lunch.

Emergency calls by students should be made in an administrative office, and families should contact Office A (ext. 1644) for individual student needs. Headphones/earbuds may be used for educational purposes only; otherwise, students should remove them. Bluetooth speakers are not allowed in the building.
 

Aspen Student & Parent Portal Information

Families are encouraged to have frequent conversations about their student's growth and development to support their ongoing success. To guide these conversations and monitor student attendance and grades, students and families should log in to Aspen regularly. Students and parents/guardians have individual accounts with access to different resources, so parents should not share their accounts with their student. Students should click the "Sign in with Google" button to access their accounts, while parents should use their assigned username and password.

For support using and navigating Aspen, take a moment to review the Aspen Parent Portal Information document and video, which can also be found under the Parents & Students tab on the NEMT website. Families in need of Aspen support should contact us at nex2@northeastmetrotech.com.
Aspen Login
 

Northeast Athletics - Go Knights!

Information about Knights athletics can be found on the NEMT website under the Departments tab. Northeast home games are live-streamed on Hudl Fan.

For any questions, contact Athletic Director Donald Heres:

📧 dheres@northeastmetrotech.com | 📞 (617) 875-4432

Northeast Logo
 
Person using a laptop

Contact Us

Please view this resource to identify the school personnel who should be contacted when seeking support. Included is contact information for student absence reporting, CTE and academic department heads, school counseling support, nurses office, deans of students, transportation, athletics, MCAS, and special education.

📞 (781) 246-0810