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Northeast Metro Tech: Weekly Newsletter - 2/14/25

Posted Date: 2/14/25 (7:24 PM)

Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational High School
Weekly Newsletter: 2/14/25
Black Week: The Week of Monday, February 24, 2025
Grades 9 & 11: Shops (Remember to follow the dress code)
Grades 10 & 12: Academics
Northeast Knights
NEMT Website
 
February Break: February 17-21, 2025
Northeast Metro Tech's February vacation will take place from Monday, February 17, through Friday, February 21. School will resume on Monday, February 24. We wish all students, families, faculty, and staff a restful and rejuvenating break.
 
Steven Romero Hernandez Named Northeast’s 2025 Outstanding Vocational Technical Student of the Year
Congratulations to Steven Romero Hernandez, a senior in Robotics and Automation, on being named Northeast Metro Tech’s MAVA Outstanding Vocational Technical Student of the Year. This award recognizes his scholastic and vocational technical achievements, as well as his contributions to the school and community.

Steven and his family will be honored at the MAVA Outstanding Vocational Technical Student Awards Ceremony on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Mechanics Hall in Worcester, alongside other outstanding vocational students from across the Commonwealth.

We are proud of Steven’s accomplishments and look forward to celebrating this well-deserved recognition.
Steven Romero Hernandez
Steven Romero Hernandez
 
Northeast’s Auto Programs Continue Rewarding Partnership with Second Chance Cars
On Friday, February 7, a deserving recipient was awarded a refurbished vehicle through Second Chance Cars, an organization that provides affordable transportation to individuals securing employment. Since 2020, Northeast’s Auto Collision and Auto Tech programs have partnered with Second Chance Cars, providing repairs on seven vehicles and hosting five award ceremonies.

Each vehicle is carefully evaluated to ensure it aligns with our program needs. Once accepted, Auto Tech students inspect and repair brakes, suspension, charging systems, and fluid levels to ensure mechanical soundness. The vehicle then moves to the Auto Collision shop, where students repair dents, scratches, and deteriorated paint, replace heavily damaged parts, and refinish panels as needed. Finally, the vehicle undergoes a full cleaning and detailing process before being awarded to its new owner.

This partnership has been an invaluable experience for our students, providing both technical training and the opportunity to see the direct impact of their work on the community. We are proud to continue this rewarding collaboration, combining hands-on learning with service to others.
Second Chance Cars
Second Chance Cars
 
Congratulations to Lily Bogus on First-Place Finish and Job Offer
Congratulations to senior Lily Bogus for finishing first in the mock Presidents Day sales event marketing campaign for Kelly Automotive Group. On Friday, January 31, Digital and Visual seniors showcased their creativity, public speaking, and technical skills, presenting their marketing campaigns to Brian Kelly, Founder and CEO of the highly regarded dealership group. Lily's outstanding work, innovation, and professionalism earned her first place and an on-the-spot job offer from Mr. Kelly himself. Congratulations, Lily, on this well-deserved recognition and exciting career opportunity.
Lily Bogus
 
Build-a-Bureau Wins Gold at the CPE Influence Awards
Carpentry sophomores were notified on Tuesday, February 11, that Northeast Metro Tech’s Build-a-Bureau project received Gold in the Humanitarian category at the CPE Influence Awards, a national recognition highlighting notable projects in the commercial real estate sector for design, development, investment transactions, technology, and community engagement. This award honors projects that demonstrate leadership through philanthropic initiatives, with special recognition given to organizations that actively participate in the cause.

The Build-a-Bureau project, a partnership between Northeast and Mission of Deeds, with support from Dacon Corporation and Camber Development, has provided custom-built bureaus to families in need. This hands-on initiative not only enhances students’ technical skills but also reinforces the importance of community service.

Congratulations to the Carpentry sophomores and instructors who contributed to this meaningful and award-winning effort.
Carpentry
 
Auto Tech Students Make Progress on Switch Electric Vehicle
Our Auto Tech students have made tremendous progress in assembling the Switch Electric Vehicle, completing the rolling chassis, along with the drive motor, battery box, charger, wiring, driver’s seat, and controls. With assembly now 80% complete, we are excited to see the vehicle come to life soon and look forward to having a fully functional electric vehicle.
AT EV students
AT EV
 
Dental Assisting Students Host Preschoolers for National Children's Dental Health Month
In celebration of National Children's Dental Health Month, senior Dental Assisting students welcomed preschoolers from the Little Knights program for a fun and educational visit on Thursday, February 13. This special collaboration between the Dental Assisting and Early Childhood programs provided an engaging experience where preschoolers, guided by their early childcare student teachers, rotated through interactive stations to learn about dental health. During their visit, Little Knights explored the dental operatory, enjoyed a fun chair ride, learned about healthy and unhealthy snacks, and decorated crowns with the Tooth Fairy. They also participated in a storytime session focused on the importance of brushing their teeth. This memorable experience was a valuable opportunity for students of all ages to learn, interact, and promote good oral health habits.
DA
 
Congratulations to Our DECA School-Based Enterprise (SBE) Students
We are proud to recognize our DECA School-Based Enterprise (SBE) students for their outstanding achievements in the 2024-2025 school year:

  • NE Essentials Vending Machine - Recertified Gold by Juliana Arevalo & Angely Zuniga (Juniors)
  • NE Things School Store - Recertified Gold by Melissa Domingos & Ashley Estrada Ramos (Seniors)
  • Breakheart Inn - Recertified Gold by Anna Bardascino & Brianna Quezada (Sophomores)
  • Reading Co-Op Bank - Certified Gold by Yanelys Hernandez Rosado & Maria Rojas Lopera (Seniors)
These students will be recognized at DECA’s International Career Development Conference from April 26-29 in Orlando, Florida. Notably, the Reading Co-Op Bank SBE is one of fewer than 10 SBEs in the country based on a financial institution, a truly remarkable achievement.
DECA
DECA
DECA
 
Northeast Boys Hockey Qualifies for MIAA State Tournament
The Northeast Knights boys hockey team has officially secured its spot in the MIAA Division 4 State Tournament after a dominant 4-0 victory over Pentucket on Saturday, February 8. With this win, the Knights improved to 10-6 on the season. Senior captain Joe Hurley led the way with two goals, while goalie Will Baker (Jr.) recorded his third shutout of the winter. Additional goals from Ryan Beede (So.) and Jack Flynn (Jr.) helped seal the win. Congratulations to the team on this achievement, and good luck the rest of the season.
Boys Hockey team
 
TDVAM
School Counselors to Facilitate Discussions on Healthy Relationships
This month, school counselors will visit junior shops to lead discussions on healthy relationships across four domains: romantic, professional, family, and friendships. Additionally, a lunch activity open to all grade levels will provide students with an opportunity to engage in an interactive exercise designed to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy relationships. These sessions aim to foster awareness and support students in developing positive and respectful relationships in all aspects of life. A parent or guardian may opt their student out of participating in the shop presentations by completing this Opt-Out Form before Monday, February 24.
 
Teen Dating Violence Resources
If you or someone you know is experiencing teen dating violence or needs support, the following resources offer confidential help and guidance.

Hotlines & Support Services:
  • REACH Hotline: (800) 899-4000 | Web Chat
  • Journey to Teen Safety Program: (781) 647-5327 (Ask for Journey to Safety)
  • National Teen Dating Helpline: Love is Respect
Informational Websites:
 
Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS): Wednesday, March 12, 2025
On Wednesday, March 12, from 10 to 11 a.m. during C block, Northeast Metro Tech will administer the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) to all students. This anonymous survey assesses key health risk behaviors among high school students that contribute to major health concerns, including disease, injury, and other serious issues. These behaviors include tobacco, alcohol, and drug use, sexual activity, diet, physical activity, and safety-related practices.

Modeled after the Massachusetts and national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Youth Risk Behavior Surveys, this version was developed by Northeast Metro Tech in collaboration with Massachusetts General Hospital’s Center for Community Health Improvement. The results will guide improvements in prevention programs and curricula.

Survey Privacy & Parent Access
  • The survey is anonymous; students will not provide their names.
  • Students may choose not to answer any question.
  • Parents who wish to review the survey may contact the Main Office at (781) 246-0810 to schedule a time to view it at the school. The survey will be available for review until Friday, March 7.
  • A parent or guardian may opt their student out of participating by completing this Opt-Out Form by Friday, March 7.
 
Transportation Registration for the 2025-2026 School Year
A registration link for 2025-2026 school transportation will be available soon. Registration opens in the last week of February, so please be on the lookout for more details.
 
State Seal of Biliteracy
State Seal of Biliteracy Testing
The Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to high school graduates who demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one other language. Below is the testing schedule:

Testing Schedule
  • Tuesday, February 25 - Listening, Reading, and Writing tests (all students)
  • Thursday, February 27 - Speaking test (all students except Business Tech)
  • Monday, March 10 - Speaking test (Business Tech students) & makeup sessions
  • Tuesday, March 11 - Final makeup sessions
Students should mark their calendars and arrive prepared by practicing online. For questions or further information, students and families may contact Mrs. Sandra Carreno at 📧scarreno@northeastmetrotech.com.
 
Intramurals Begin Tuesday, February 25, 2025
Intramural sports kick off on Tuesday, February 25, and run through Thursday, March 13, taking place Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 2:45 - 5:30 p.m. Activities include sports conditioning, 3-on-3 basketball, volleyball, and extended weight room hours. All students must sign in and be dressed appropriately to participate. 
 
Northeast Logo
Spring Athletics Registration Open
Students interested in trying out or participating in a spring sport, beginning Monday, March 17, must meet eligibility requirements, register online through ArbiterSports, and have a current physical (within the last 13 months) on file with the Athletics Office. Families are encouraged to upload their student's physical documentation directly to ArbiterSports.

The Spring Athletics Parent Night will be held on Wednesday, March 19, at 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria.

For more information on Knights Athletics, visit the NEMT website and select Athletics under the Departments tab.

For any questions, please contact Athletic Director Donald Heres:
📧 dheres@northeastmetrotech.com | 📞 (617) 875-4432.

 
SEPAC Image
SEPAC: A Knight Out on the Town - Thursday, March 20, 2025
2nd Annual SEPAC: A Knight Out on the Town - "Taste for Education"
📅 Thursday, March 20 | ⏰ 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
📍 Four Points by Sheraton, 1 Audubon Road, Wakefield, MA

Join us for an evening filled with great food, music, and community spirit. This exciting event features DJ Phil Carbone and offers signature dishes and culinary favorites from participating restaurants across our 12 district communities.

Featured Restaurants:
  • Northeast Culinary
  • Kowloon (Saugus)
  • Sons of Sicily (Saugus)
  • Angelo's Pizza and Roast Beef (Saugus)
  • J. Pace (Saugus)
  • Murray's Tavern (Revere)
  • Gloria's Pizza (Winchester)
  • Pearl St. Station (Malden)
  • Piantedosi Bakery (Malden)
  • La Siesta (Winthrop)
  • …and more to come!

All proceeds will support scholarships, the Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC), and initiatives that align with SEPAC’s mission. All guests 21 and older are welcome to attend.

Please consider donating or joining us for this wonderful evening. Donations and tickets may be purchased online. For additional ticket inquiries, contact knightout@northeastmetrotech.com. We look forward to seeing you there.
 
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 English 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 English MCAS, 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 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.
 
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.
 
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
February
  • State Seal of Biliteracy Testing: Tuesday, February 25 & Thursday, February 27
  • SkillsUSA District 3 Competition: Wednesday, February 26
March
  • Professional Day - No School: Monday, March 3
  • End of Trimester 2: Friday, March 7
  • Freshman/Sophomore Semi-Formal: Friday, March 7
  • State Seal of Biliteracy Testing: Monday, March 10 & Tuesday, March 11
  • Youth Risk Behavior Survey: Wednesday, March 12
  • Winter Athletics Banquet: Wednesday, March 12
  • Spring Athletics Begin: Monday, March 17
  • 2 Hour Delay - Professional Development: Wednesday, March 19
  • Spring Athletics Parent Night: Wednesday, March 19
  • Knight Out SEPAC: Thursday, March 20
  • 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
 
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.
 
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 at Team1sports.com.

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