December of 2023
Volume 1, Issue 10 December 22, 2023
Building Momentum for a New High School
Everett Advances to a Critical Phase of the MSBA Process
Everett Advances to a Critical Phase of the MSBA Process
Everett has taken an essential stride forward in its relentless pursuit of a new high school, as the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) has notified the city that its Statement of Interest has advanced to the Eligibility Period.
“This is great news — a genuine lift for our district and our community as we head into the holiday season,” said Everett Public Schools (EPS) Superintendent William D. Hart. “A new high school has long been something we conceptualize. Now we can start to plan.”
The 270-day Eligibility Period marks the beginning of the MSBA’s grant approval process and benefits the City by providing school and city leaders with a streamlined and scheduled process that formalizes the community’s effort to build a new school for 9-12 graders. This includes a list of preliminary requirements, determination of financial and community readiness, and planning and budgeting. Successful completion of all activities in the Eligibility Period is required to join the next phase of the process — the Feasibility Study.
“By design, the process is carefully crafted and deliberate,” said Superintendent Hart. “The EPS and its Central Administration will be ready to lend every ounce of support as we take the steps required by the MSBA.”
The City’s Eligibility Period runs from July 1, 2024, to March 28, 2025, during which time the city and district will adhere to the following schedule:
“This is great news — a genuine lift for our district and our community as we head into the holiday season,” said Everett Public Schools (EPS) Superintendent William D. Hart. “A new high school has long been something we conceptualize. Now we can start to plan.”
The 270-day Eligibility Period marks the beginning of the MSBA’s grant approval process and benefits the City by providing school and city leaders with a streamlined and scheduled process that formalizes the community’s effort to build a new school for 9-12 graders. This includes a list of preliminary requirements, determination of financial and community readiness, and planning and budgeting. Successful completion of all activities in the Eligibility Period is required to join the next phase of the process — the Feasibility Study.
“By design, the process is carefully crafted and deliberate,” said Superintendent Hart. “The EPS and its Central Administration will be ready to lend every ounce of support as we take the steps required by the MSBA.”
The City’s Eligibility Period runs from July 1, 2024, to March 28, 2025, during which time the city and district will adhere to the following schedule:
“Last week’s vote by the MSBA Board of Directors is the critical next step that I have fought for in order for Everett to move forward with the only solution that will address our entire district’s needs,” said Mayor Carlo DeMaria.
Mayor DeMaria stressed that a new high school will alleviate space constraints across the district, as it would enable the district to utilize the current high school for middle school students. This would have a significant and positive ripple effect affect every K-8 building in the city — leading to things like the reopening of school libraries and art and music classrooms.
Completion of the preliminary requirements within the 270 days does not guarantee an invitation into the MSBA Capital Pipeline. But failure to complete the process guarantees that an application will be removed from the process, requiring a community to start from the beginning and submit a Statement of Interest.
“Which is why this is such an important moment,” concluded Superintendent Hart. “My congratulations to Mayor Carlo DeMaria and everyone who has devoted the time and energy to get us to this point. I look forward to joining the process in the coming months and years.”
Mayor DeMaria stressed that a new high school will alleviate space constraints across the district, as it would enable the district to utilize the current high school for middle school students. This would have a significant and positive ripple effect affect every K-8 building in the city — leading to things like the reopening of school libraries and art and music classrooms.
Completion of the preliminary requirements within the 270 days does not guarantee an invitation into the MSBA Capital Pipeline. But failure to complete the process guarantees that an application will be removed from the process, requiring a community to start from the beginning and submit a Statement of Interest.
“Which is why this is such an important moment,” concluded Superintendent Hart. “My congratulations to Mayor Carlo DeMaria and everyone who has devoted the time and energy to get us to this point. I look forward to joining the process in the coming months and years.”
* * * * * *
An Everett High Holiday Tradition
Holiday Gala Concert and Art Exhibit
Holiday Gala Concert and Art Exhibit
There are few nights on the Everett Public Schools (EPS) calendar as joyous as the Everett High School (EHS) Holiday Gala Concert, which was held this year on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. Parents, students, and members of the community were treated to a fantastic lineup of entertainment provided by the theatre company, dance ensemble, choir, rock band, jazz band, orchestra, and alumni. Prior to the event, EHS art students displayed their work for everyone to enjoy. Thanks to the dozens of musicians and teachers who worked so hard to develop, rehearse, and stage this year’s concert!
Click HERE for Photos from the Holiday Gala Concert
Click HERE for Photos of the Student Artwork
Click HERE for Photos from the Holiday Gala Concert
Click HERE for Photos of the Student Artwork
* * * * * *
From left: MaryBeth Benedetto, Deb Fallon and Joseph Faulstich from Portal to Hope,
Madeline English Principal Theresa Tringale, and Assistant Principal Tiffany Boyake.
Great Sweaters (Even Better Toys!)
Madeline English Staff Team Up for Portal to Hope
Madeline English Staff Team Up for Portal to Hope
For the tenth consecutive year, the staff at the Madeline English School enthusiastically participated in a Festive Sweater Day and Toy Drive to benefit Portal to Hope. Thanks to Literary Interventionist MaryBeth Benedetto and her colleagues for once again collecting dozens of new, unwrapped toys to directly benefit local families over the holidays. Portal To Hope is a non-profit organization committed to helping victims of domestic violence.
Madeline English Festive Sweater Day — Clockwise from top: Ann Towle, Lisa Morello, Jennifer McCarthy, Maureen Ahearn, Janet Colameta, Allie Lea, and MaryBeth Benedetto; Hope Johnson, Genevieve Goodman, and Renee Heffron; Kim Colantuoni, Jennifer Cavalieri, Ann Towle, and Angela Amico; Danielle Kennedy-Nadeau, Devin Bean, Jamie Cassidy, Elizabeth Curley, and Kaila Mallard; and Angela Mattola, Allison Quinn, and Briana Ricci.
* * * * * *
A Note of Gratitude
EPS Music Teachers: Take a Bow
EPS Music Teachers: Take a Bow
Thanks to the Everett Public Schools (EPS) Music Department for once again planning and holding a series of sensational holiday performances. The K-8 string nights and concerts give our students the chance to showcase their skills, and they are always immensely popular with parents and relatives. It wouldn’t be a holiday season without music! The photo above was taken at the Madeline English School String Concert. From left: Music teachers Michael Castellano, Eric Holmes, Samantha Logan, and Lyndsay Blauvelt, Music Coordinator Eugene O'Brien, School Committee member-elect Samantha Hurley, Everett High graduate Alyssa Hurley, Superintendent William Hart, and music teachers Brian Spencer and Angela Amico.
* * * * * *
A Soaring Success
Whittier Students Enjoy Science Project
Whittier Students Enjoy Science Project
Whittier School second graders recently completed a fun and engaging science project in which they investigated what foods attract different species of birds to a bird feeder.
The project was planned and directed by teachers Kelly Nichols, Crystal Connors, Heather Mallett, Michelle Conklin, and Taylor Woodbury.
The students designed their bird feeders after researching bird species and the food they eat. The students developed prototypes and built a model of their bird feeders using materials provided through the Mystery Science curriculum — including cups, paper plates, pipe cleaners, skewers, and binder clips. The second graders then brainstormed on ideas on how to make an area more attractive to birds, including the addition of plants and a bird bath near the feeder.
Our thanks to the Whittier second-grade team for planning, preparing, and leading such creative and cooperative learning experience.
The project was planned and directed by teachers Kelly Nichols, Crystal Connors, Heather Mallett, Michelle Conklin, and Taylor Woodbury.
The students designed their bird feeders after researching bird species and the food they eat. The students developed prototypes and built a model of their bird feeders using materials provided through the Mystery Science curriculum — including cups, paper plates, pipe cleaners, skewers, and binder clips. The second graders then brainstormed on ideas on how to make an area more attractive to birds, including the addition of plants and a bird bath near the feeder.
Our thanks to the Whittier second-grade team for planning, preparing, and leading such creative and cooperative learning experience.
* * * * * *
Learning by Example
Sanchez Discusses the History of Flamenco with EHS Students
Sanchez Discusses the History of Flamenco with EHS Students
Local Flamenco artist Láura Sanchez gave a presentation to Everett High School (EHS) students on Wednesday, December 20, 2023. She discussed the history of Flamenco, its call-and-response format, its footwork, as well as the visual language of the rhythm of the dance. Following the presentation, EHS Students performed their own Flamenco with Ms. Sanchez. Beginning in January of 2024, Ms. Sanchez will be a part of the Lafayette School STARS after-school enrichment program, where she will serve as an Artist in Residence and work alongside EPS theater teacher Jordana Meltzer.
* * * * * *
Connecting with our Community
ePlus Makes Generous Donation to EPS Students
A huge “Thank You” to ePlus Technology Inc. for donating $3,000 worth of Target gift cards to the Everett Public Schools (EPS). The cards were distributed to all 10 schools in the district, so principals could directly help our students and families this holiday season. Thanks to the ePlus team for this amazing donation. From left: ePlus Account Executive Lisa Ovalles, Superintendent William D. Hart, Assistant Superintendent Anu Jayanth, and Michael Coffey of K+M Communications.
Volume 1, Issue 9: December 14, 2023
A Formidable Security Team!
Students Working with Students at EHS
Students Working with Students at EHS
The members of Mr. Neil Plotnick’s advanced cybersecurity class worked with Ms. Maureen Johnson’s math students on an Hour of Code activity on Thursday, December 7, 2023. The students in the small-group math class had a fun time collaborating with the cybersecurity students on coding a dance party avatar using Artificial Intelligence. Mr. Plotnick will continue to support Ms. Johnson’s class with coding materials and resources that combine math and programming.
The State Championship-bound Lafayette Lions Robotics Team
Middle School Robotics UpdateLafayette Lions Advance to State Championship
The Everett Public Schools (EPS) sent seven middle-school robotics teams to the First Lego League Robotics Qualifier on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at Revere High School.
Magnificent Sevens
EHS Theatre Company Fall Showcase
The Fall Showcase Cast List
Allow Him to Illustrate …
Masiello Dazzles EPS Students
Click HERE for more photos of Mr. Masiello’s visit
Artist Rixy (right) and K-12 Arts Coordinator Cari DiCicco
Art All Over
Rixy Makes an Appearance at Everett High
* * * * *
Congratulations to the students and their teachers, as every EPS team finished in the top 20 out of 40 entrants in the high-energy competition. And a special salute to the Lafayette Lions, coached by James Santerre and Tenzin Lhadon, for earning a top-10 finish and securing a place in the State Championship on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at Newton North High School.
The EPS started its middle-school robotics program last year as part of a district-wide effort to expand offerings for students in Grades 6-8. This season, the district boasts seven First Lego League teams — one at the Parlin, Lafayette, and Keverian schools and two each at the Madeline English and Whittier schools.
Our First Lego League coaches are as follows:
Keverian — Christie Mercuri and Tori Milano
Madeline English — Bruce Jaffe and Jennifer Cavalieri
Lafayette — James Santerre and Tenzin Lhadon
Whittier — Dawn Munro and Neeta Kalve
Parlin — Michael LaRochelle, Lisa Lomba, and Nicholas Estabrook
The First Lego League (FLL) introduces students to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through fun, exciting hands-on learning. Participants develop problem-solving skills through a guided, global robotics program, while FLL competitions provide students a platform to showcase their critical thinking, coding, and design skills in a supportive, team-oriented environment.
Whittier School students compete in the First Lego League Robotics Qualifier
Magnificent Sevens
EHS Theatre Company Fall Showcase
The Everett High School (EHS) Theatre Company staged its Fall Showcase on December 7-8, 2023, inside the Center for the Performing Arts. The show featured a dynamic mix of song, dance, acting, improv, and humor — all based around the Seven Deadly Sins and Seven Virtues. Congratulations to the EHS performing artists and thanks to teachers Evan DeMarzo, Brittany Mitchell, and Briana Pierce for overseeing the production and set design! Finally, a round of applause to the parents, district teachers and staff, elected officials, and residents who attended one of the two performances.
The Fall Showcase Cast List
Author and illustrator Ralph Masiello talks about his work with EHS art students
Allow Him to Illustrate …
Masiello Dazzles EPS Students
Renowned author/illustrator Ralph Masiello made a return visit to the Everett Public Schools (EPS) last week, presenting to a variety of grade levels at multiple schools in the district. Masiello specializes in creating age-appropriate programs that are “fun, funny, and educational.” He made his debut appearance in the EPS last year, and K-12 Arts Coordinator Caroline DiCicco and Library Coordinator Mary Puleo were happy to bring him back for two days of presentations on December 6-7, 2023.
During his two-day tour of the district, Mr. Masiello met with Parlin and Whittier fourth graders, Keverian second graders, Madeline English third and fourth graders, and the Everett High School Illustration Class.
During his K-8 presentations, Mr. Masiello talked about his books and how he builds ideas to create stories, and he led drawing demonstrations. At Everett High, he discussed his career trajectory and building a professional art portfolio. He also gave helpful feedback on student artwork.
During his two-day tour of the district, Mr. Masiello met with Parlin and Whittier fourth graders, Keverian second graders, Madeline English third and fourth graders, and the Everett High School Illustration Class.
During his K-8 presentations, Mr. Masiello talked about his books and how he builds ideas to create stories, and he led drawing demonstrations. At Everett High, he discussed his career trajectory and building a professional art portfolio. He also gave helpful feedback on student artwork.
Click HERE for more photos of Mr. Masiello’s visit
Artist Rixy (right) and K-12 Arts Coordinator Cari DiCicco
Art All Over
Rixy Makes an Appearance at Everett High
Interdisciplinary street artist Rixy delivered a presentation to Everett High School (EHS) students on Friday, December 8, 2023, as part of the EHS Fine and Performing Arts Department Guest Artist Series.
Rixy, the daughter of EHS Administrative Assistant Rixy Reyes Cardillo, talked about the public works of art she has completed in Greater Boston and around the world. She delved into what inspires her artwork, and discussed how she creates murals using both house and spray paints. She also reviewed the public-art proposal process, inspiring students to pursue their own opportunities.
EHS students and teachers have viewed and admired Rixy’s murals around Greater Boston, which made this presentation even more meaningful.
Rixy, the daughter of EHS Administrative Assistant Rixy Reyes Cardillo, talked about the public works of art she has completed in Greater Boston and around the world. She delved into what inspires her artwork, and discussed how she creates murals using both house and spray paints. She also reviewed the public-art proposal process, inspiring students to pursue their own opportunities.
EHS students and teachers have viewed and admired Rixy’s murals around Greater Boston, which made this presentation even more meaningful.
Making a Meal of the Competition
EHS Duo Wins Kiss 108 Turkey Toss
EHS Duo Wins Kiss 108 Turkey Toss
Congratulations to Everett High School (EHS) seniors Domenic Papa and Shane MacKenzie for winning the 2023 Kiss 108 Turkey Toss. The event, held on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at the Baxter Park Amphitheater at Assembly Row, is always very popular with area high school students. And it has been a particularly successful event for EHS, which has won the competition several times over the years. Shane had the job of tossing the turkey, while Domenic was entrusted with catching it.
* * * * *
Webster Extension Winter Wonderland
Photo Album
Volume 1, Issue 8: December 7, 2023
Tops in His Field!
Mr. Richter Named to the Wasabi Fenway Bowl Honor Roll
A Parlin School third-grade teacher has received a high-visibility honor from leading organizations and businesses. Veteran EPS educator Ben Richter has been named to the 2023 Wasabi Fenway Bowl Honor Roll, a charitable program that recognizes educators “who have gone above and beyond to support their students.” The initiative is sponsored by Amica, Samuel Adams, Moderna, Meet Boston, and Boston Globe Media.
“Mr. Richter is a dedicated and compassionate educator with a natural talent to engage all learners,” said Parlin School Principal Nancy Sutera. “He is a warm, accessible, and enthusiastic individual that cares about all students.”
The 2023 Wasabi Fenway Bowl Honor Roll members are featured on THIS site, which includes photos of the educators designed to look like sports cards.
The 2023 Wasabi Fenway Bowl kicks off at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 28 at Fenway Park. This year’s game pits SMU vs. the Boston College Eagles, whose roster includes Everett High graduate Ismael Zamor.
More than 200 teachers, administrators, and staff from schools throughout New England were nominated for a place on the Wasabi Fenway Bowl Honor Roll. Winners exemplify the highest standards of dedication to the profession. From providing essentials to students and their families to creating welcoming classrooms under challenging conditions, the Honor Roll educators are an inspiration.
“Congratulations to Mr. Richter for this deserved honor,” said Interim Superintendent William Hart. “And thanks to the Wasabi Bowl and its corporate sponsors for recognizing the great lengths teachers go to provide their students with everything they need.”
“Mr. Richter is a dedicated and compassionate educator with a natural talent to engage all learners,” said Parlin School Principal Nancy Sutera. “He is a warm, accessible, and enthusiastic individual that cares about all students.”
The 2023 Wasabi Fenway Bowl Honor Roll members are featured on THIS site, which includes photos of the educators designed to look like sports cards.
The 2023 Wasabi Fenway Bowl kicks off at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 28 at Fenway Park. This year’s game pits SMU vs. the Boston College Eagles, whose roster includes Everett High graduate Ismael Zamor.
More than 200 teachers, administrators, and staff from schools throughout New England were nominated for a place on the Wasabi Fenway Bowl Honor Roll. Winners exemplify the highest standards of dedication to the profession. From providing essentials to students and their families to creating welcoming classrooms under challenging conditions, the Honor Roll educators are an inspiration.
“Congratulations to Mr. Richter for this deserved honor,” said Interim Superintendent William Hart. “And thanks to the Wasabi Bowl and its corporate sponsors for recognizing the great lengths teachers go to provide their students with everything they need.”
Thanks to the Lafayette School students who represented the Everett Public Schools
at the CCLC's Winter Institute.
at the CCLC's Winter Institute.
A Very Current Event
Lafayette Students Present at DESE Institute
The Lafayette School’s student Design Team presented at this year’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) Winter Institute, where they skillfully and articulately discussed the development and implementation of the school’s free STAR after-school program for 5-8 graders.
“My gratitude to the students for a fantastic job of presenting,” said Karyl Resnick, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s 21st Century Grant Director. “It is not easy standing up and speaking in front of a few people, never mind 200 educators. They made it look easy.”
Students on the 2022-23 and 2023-24 design teams were invited to share their experiences as youth leaders for the 21st Century Grant effort at the Lafayette. Team members compiled and studied peer opinions on what students want in an after-school program. Those ideas led to a pilot program and eventually formed the foundation of the STAR program, which is up and running this year and serving more than 80 students.
A team of eight teachers and community partners make up the STAR team. Programming runs from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and features an array of offerings, including leadership development with the Cambridge Health Alliance, electronic music production with DEILAB, as well as game design and coding, performing arts, sports, and science offerings. All of this was made possible through DESE’s 21st Century Grant program, which awarded more than $170,000 to the district to run after-school and summer programming at the Lafayette during the 2023-2024 school year.
“Of the many things to admire the STAR program, the fact that our students were so heavily involved in the process is one of the most notable,” said Interim Superintendent William Hart. “My congratulations to the Design Team for their hard work and the great exposure they provided for the Everett Public Schools (EPS).”
The 21st Century Community Learning Grant's Winter Institute was held at the Devens Common Center, where the following students delivered a presentation to more than 200 teachers from after-school programs in Massachusetts: Mia Stout, Afsheen Islam, Heba Karroud, Liliana Fisher, Callie Cooper, Lorelei O'Brien, Alexander Petros, Esteban Leguisamon, Manases Huezo Erazo, Pranita Sharma, and Dipti Chaudhary.
Their report, which can be found HERE, provided a complete overview of the process, from data collection and analysis, to developing a pilot, to developing the mission statement and parameters of what would become the STAR program. When they finished, they received a standing ovation! Additionally, the students participated in a workshop entitled, "High Quality Project Based Learning" and provided feedback and ideas to teachers developing projects for their youth programming.
“My gratitude to the students for a fantastic job of presenting,” said Karyl Resnick, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s 21st Century Grant Director. “It is not easy standing up and speaking in front of a few people, never mind 200 educators. They made it look easy.”
Students on the 2022-23 and 2023-24 design teams were invited to share their experiences as youth leaders for the 21st Century Grant effort at the Lafayette. Team members compiled and studied peer opinions on what students want in an after-school program. Those ideas led to a pilot program and eventually formed the foundation of the STAR program, which is up and running this year and serving more than 80 students.
A team of eight teachers and community partners make up the STAR team. Programming runs from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and features an array of offerings, including leadership development with the Cambridge Health Alliance, electronic music production with DEILAB, as well as game design and coding, performing arts, sports, and science offerings. All of this was made possible through DESE’s 21st Century Grant program, which awarded more than $170,000 to the district to run after-school and summer programming at the Lafayette during the 2023-2024 school year.
“Of the many things to admire the STAR program, the fact that our students were so heavily involved in the process is one of the most notable,” said Interim Superintendent William Hart. “My congratulations to the Design Team for their hard work and the great exposure they provided for the Everett Public Schools (EPS).”
The 21st Century Community Learning Grant's Winter Institute was held at the Devens Common Center, where the following students delivered a presentation to more than 200 teachers from after-school programs in Massachusetts: Mia Stout, Afsheen Islam, Heba Karroud, Liliana Fisher, Callie Cooper, Lorelei O'Brien, Alexander Petros, Esteban Leguisamon, Manases Huezo Erazo, Pranita Sharma, and Dipti Chaudhary.
Their report, which can be found HERE, provided a complete overview of the process, from data collection and analysis, to developing a pilot, to developing the mission statement and parameters of what would become the STAR program. When they finished, they received a standing ovation! Additionally, the students participated in a workshop entitled, "High Quality Project Based Learning" and provided feedback and ideas to teachers developing projects for their youth programming.
“Overall, the Design Team members received numerous commendations for their presentation and their hard work making the Lafayette STAR program a success, inspiring many other 21st Century sites across the state to reimagine the ways in which youth can be mobilized as leaders and decision makers within their programs,” said EPS Manager of Extended Learning Heather McCormack.
In addition to the students above, the following were instrumental in the planning phase during the 2022-2023 school year: Melany Arana Quintanilla, Christopher De Sousa, Ketura Hilaire, Stiven Menjivar, Igor Da Silva, Sophia Dos Santos, Al Ramsdell, and Jaida Wilichoski.
In addition to the students above, the following were instrumental in the planning phase during the 2022-2023 school year: Melany Arana Quintanilla, Christopher De Sousa, Ketura Hilaire, Stiven Menjivar, Igor Da Silva, Sophia Dos Santos, Al Ramsdell, and Jaida Wilichoski.
Click HERE for more photos from the STAR Presentation
All The News That’s Fit to Print
EHS Students Visit the Massachusetts College of Art and Design
EHS Students Visit the Massachusetts College of Art and Design
Everett High School art students took a field trip to the Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) on Wednesday, November 29, 2023. Mr. Fred. H. C. Liang, Chairperson of the Printmaking Department, led a presentation on lithography, silkscreen, monoprint, etching and more. Students studied examples of these art forms, and Mr. Liang led a discussion focusing on the evolution of print throughout art history. He guided students through their own lithographs using Pronto plates, giving students the chance to see their designs come to fruition directly on the printing press at MassArt.
Click HERE for more photos from the trip to MassArt
Court of Public Opinion
EHS Boys Hoop Team Ranked in Initial Globe Top 20
EHS Boys Hoop Team Ranked in Initial Globe Top 20
The Everett High School (EHS) boys basketball team is ranked No. 14 in the Boston Globe’s preseason. Top 20. EHS is the only Greater Boston League team in the initial Top 20, which is topped by Needham High School. First-year head coach Gerard Boyce and the Crimson Tide open the season on Tuesday, December 12 vs. Malden. Tipoff is set for 7:00 p.m. at EHS. Coach Riley Dunn and the Crimson Tide girls basketball team begin the 2023-2024 season at Malden High on Tuesday, December 12th at 6:00 p.m.
Click HERE for the complete 2023-2024 EHS Winter Sports Schedule
Volume 1, Issue 9: December 14, 2023
A Formidable Security Team!
Students Working with Students at EHS
Students Working with Students at EHS
The members of Mr. Neil Plotnick’s advanced cybersecurity class worked with Ms. Maureen Johnson’s math students on an Hour of Code activity on Thursday, December 7, 2023. The students in the small-group math class had a fun time collaborating with the cybersecurity students on coding a dance party avatar using Artificial Intelligence. Mr. Plotnick will continue to support Ms. Johnson’s class with coding materials and resources that combine math and programming.
The State Championship-bound Lafayette Lions Robotics Team
Middle School Robotics UpdateLafayette Lions Advance to State Championship
The Everett Public Schools (EPS) sent seven middle-school robotics teams to the First Lego League Robotics Qualifier on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at Revere High School.
Magnificent Sevens
EHS Theatre Company Fall Showcase
The Fall Showcase Cast List
Allow Him to Illustrate …
Masiello Dazzles EPS Students
Click HERE for more photos of Mr. Masiello’s visit
Artist Rixy (right) and K-12 Arts Coordinator Cari DiCicco
Art All Over
Rixy Makes an Appearance at Everett High
* * * * *
Congratulations to the students and their teachers, as every EPS team finished in the top 20 out of 40 entrants in the high-energy competition. And a special salute to the Lafayette Lions, coached by James Santerre and Tenzin Lhadon, for earning a top-10 finish and securing a place in the State Championship on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at Newton North High School.
The EPS started its middle-school robotics program last year as part of a district-wide effort to expand offerings for students in Grades 6-8. This season, the district boasts seven First Lego League teams — one at the Parlin, Lafayette, and Keverian schools and two each at the Madeline English and Whittier schools.
Our First Lego League coaches are as follows:
Keverian — Christie Mercuri and Tori Milano
Madeline English — Bruce Jaffe and Jennifer Cavalieri
Lafayette — James Santerre and Tenzin Lhadon
Whittier — Dawn Munro and Neeta Kalve
Parlin — Michael LaRochelle, Lisa Lomba, and Nicholas Estabrook
The First Lego League (FLL) introduces students to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through fun, exciting hands-on learning. Participants develop problem-solving skills through a guided, global robotics program, while FLL competitions provide students a platform to showcase their critical thinking, coding, and design skills in a supportive, team-oriented environment.
Whittier School students compete in the First Lego League Robotics Qualifier
Magnificent Sevens
EHS Theatre Company Fall Showcase
The Everett High School (EHS) Theatre Company staged its Fall Showcase on December 7-8, 2023, inside the Center for the Performing Arts. The show featured a dynamic mix of song, dance, acting, improv, and humor — all based around the Seven Deadly Sins and Seven Virtues. Congratulations to the EHS performing artists and thanks to teachers Evan DeMarzo, Brittany Mitchell, and Briana Pierce for overseeing the production and set design! Finally, a round of applause to the parents, district teachers and staff, elected officials, and residents who attended one of the two performances.
The Fall Showcase Cast List
Author and illustrator Ralph Masiello talks about his work with EHS art students
Allow Him to Illustrate …
Masiello Dazzles EPS Students
Renowned author/illustrator Ralph Masiello made a return visit to the Everett Public Schools (EPS) last week, presenting to a variety of grade levels at multiple schools in the district. Masiello specializes in creating age-appropriate programs that are “fun, funny, and educational.” He made his debut appearance in the EPS last year, and K-12 Arts Coordinator Caroline DiCicco and Library Coordinator Mary Puleo were happy to bring him back for two days of presentations on December 6-7, 2023.
During his two-day tour of the district, Mr. Masiello met with Parlin and Whittier fourth graders, Keverian second graders, Madeline English third and fourth graders, and the Everett High School Illustration Class.
During his K-8 presentations, Mr. Masiello talked about his books and how he builds ideas to create stories, and he led drawing demonstrations. At Everett High, he discussed his career trajectory and building a professional art portfolio. He also gave helpful feedback on student artwork.
During his two-day tour of the district, Mr. Masiello met with Parlin and Whittier fourth graders, Keverian second graders, Madeline English third and fourth graders, and the Everett High School Illustration Class.
During his K-8 presentations, Mr. Masiello talked about his books and how he builds ideas to create stories, and he led drawing demonstrations. At Everett High, he discussed his career trajectory and building a professional art portfolio. He also gave helpful feedback on student artwork.
Click HERE for more photos of Mr. Masiello’s visit
Artist Rixy (right) and K-12 Arts Coordinator Cari DiCicco
Art All Over
Rixy Makes an Appearance at Everett High
Interdisciplinary street artist Rixy delivered a presentation to Everett High School (EHS) students on Friday, December 8, 2023, as part of the EHS Fine and Performing Arts Department Guest Artist Series.
Rixy, the daughter of EHS Administrative Assistant Rixy Reyes Cardillo, talked about the public works of art she has completed in Greater Boston and around the world. She delved into what inspires her artwork, and discussed how she creates murals using both house and spray paints. She also reviewed the public-art proposal process, inspiring students to pursue their own opportunities.
EHS students and teachers have viewed and admired Rixy’s murals around Greater Boston, which made this presentation even more meaningful.
Rixy, the daughter of EHS Administrative Assistant Rixy Reyes Cardillo, talked about the public works of art she has completed in Greater Boston and around the world. She delved into what inspires her artwork, and discussed how she creates murals using both house and spray paints. She also reviewed the public-art proposal process, inspiring students to pursue their own opportunities.
EHS students and teachers have viewed and admired Rixy’s murals around Greater Boston, which made this presentation even more meaningful.
Making a Meal of the Competition
EHS Duo Wins Kiss 108 Turkey Toss
EHS Duo Wins Kiss 108 Turkey Toss
Congratulations to Everett High School (EHS) seniors Domenic Papa and Shane MacKenzie for winning the 2023 Kiss 108 Turkey Toss. The event, held on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at the Baxter Park Amphitheater at Assembly Row, is always very popular with area high school students. And it has been a particularly successful event for EHS, which has won the competition several times over the years. Shane had the job of tossing the turkey, while Domenic was entrusted with catching it.
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