The Bedford Buccaneer
January 31, 2022
IMPORTANT DATES
Tuesday, February 1-Monday, February 28-Black History Month
Wednesday, February 9-All school virtual assembly during advisory
Friday, February 11-Class of 2024 Fundraiser-Paint night-BHS Back Cafeteria- 6:00pm
Tuesday, February 15 - School Council meeting 2:45 pm
Wednesday, February 16 - Model UN Chipotle Fundraiser 4-8:00 pm
Thursday, February 17-All school virtual assembly featuring Jamele Adams: Speak Truth to Power with Action
Monday, February 21-Friday, February 25-Winter vacation
Thursday, March 3- 8th Grade Parent/Student Information Night-6:30-8:30 BHS Auditorium
Tuesday, March 15 - School Council meeting 2:45 pm
Thursday, June 2, 2022 - Graduation at the Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell at 6:15pm
EIGHTH GRADE PARENT/STUDENT INFORMATION NIGHT
March 3, 2022
6:30 to 8:30 PM
BHS High School Auditorium
Presentation
Student Led Tours
Curriculum “Fair” in the BHS Library
This is currently scheduled as an in-person event. Parent(s)/careiver(s) & students are welcome.
COVID Safety Checks Update
If your child tests positive for COVID-19 please notify the school nurse,
What do I do if I am a close contact (outside of the school setting - household or other out of school setting) of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19?
Asymptomatic, fully vaccinated, close contacts are exempt from testing or quarantine. You may return to school.
If you are a close contact and develop symptoms within 5 days of the initial exposure, stay home and get a PCR test.
For out of school close contacts (household close contacts, or other out of school close contact and you are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated (2 weeks since the 2nd dose) and you are a close contact, please stay home for 5 days and wear a mask for an additional 5 days. A COVID-19 test (PCR, Antigen and/or home test is acceptable) is recommended on Day 5. You may return on DAY 6.What if I am ill and have symptoms on the COVID-19 symptom checklist?
If you are ill, please stay home and get tested for COVID-19. You may return to school after you have received a negative PCR or antigen test result. An antigen home test may be self administered. If you test negative, you may return to school as long as your symptoms are improving and you are fever free for 24 hours without fever reducing medication.
If you test positive, please stay home and isolate for 5 days. Please report the positive result to the school nurse.
Return to school after 5 days and once you have:
Been without fever for 24 hours (and without taking fever-reducing medications),
Experienced improvement of other symptoms
Following the day 5 isolation period, individuals must mask for 5 additional days when around others.
Can I continue with weekly pooled testing after I tested positive for COVID?
No. It is not recommended that any individual who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 90 days participate in routine COVID-19 testing.
For anyone who tests positive, they will need to stay at home and isolate for 5 days. Day 0 is the date of the onset of symptoms or date of the positive test, and they may return to school on day 6 if you have:
Been without fever for 24 hours (and without taking fever-reducing medications),
Experienced improvement of other symptoms
Following the day 5 isolation period, individuals must mask for 5 additional days when around others.
If your child has tested positive by home test, antigen or PCR - they should NOT participate in weekly testing. It is not recommended that any individual who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 90 days participate in routine COVID-19 testing.
For lunch/eating please instruct your child to be extra diligent about mask wearing on days 6-10, and to keep at least 3 feet of distance when eating at school and to put their mask back on when they are done eating.
Nancy Thorsen BSN,RN
781-275-1700 ext. 4416
Absence Line: (781)918-4561
or select #1 from the main menu of (781)275-1700
School Lunch
BHSPA News
The BHSPA meets monthly over Zoom on the 4th Thursday of the month at 8am. If you are interested in attending the meeting or learning more about what the BHSPA does, please email: bhsbucsparents@gmail.com Every donation made to the BHSPA goes directly to our BHS community through programs, enrichment and activities.
Recent BHSPA Funding:
- Funding of 10 new picnic tables accommodating outdoor lunches, classrooms, meetings, etc.
- Ice cream socials for each class to re-connect upon returning to in-person classes in 2021. It was the first time the classes were together as a whole in over a year!
- Teacher/Student grants to fund school projects including technology equipment for BHS NOW, funding grade specific initiatives and club requests.
- Preparation and distribution of Student Directories (this year it will include a teacher directory with email addresses!) - coming soon!
- Sponsorship of Teacher/Staff Appreciation events
- and so much more
Please check out BHSPA.org for more information!
Counseling Corner
Counseling Department Programming
Junior Parent/Caregiver Webinar: A copy of the handout is now available HERE. The webinar recording and resulting Frequently Asked Questions document will be available shortly. Have additional questions or constructive comments on the presentation? Please complete the Exit Survey HERE.
SOPHOMORE YEAR (Winter)
Start thinking about ways to pay for college. Most families get help paying for college costs. Read 7 Things You Need to Know About Financial Aid to learn more.
Discuss next year’s classes. Make sure your child will be challenging him- or herself and taking the courses college admission officers expect to see. Learn more about the high school classes that colleges look for.
JUNIOR YEAR (Winter) - Junior Counseling Seminars (Session 1) will be held in small groups by the school counselors beginning the week of January 31st during Flex block. Details are available in the Class of 2023 Google Classroom.
Now is also the time to plan to attend a college fair
Begin researching colleges and or universities
Meet with your school counselor to discuss your post-secondary goals
College Board Resource: 14 Steps to College for Parents
SENIOR YEAR
FINANCIAL AID REMINDER
Statewide Resources - From the MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Checklist of things to do before completing your FAFSA (FAFSA Day Massachusetts)
What documents and information you'll need to fill out the FAFSAFree FAFSA Help (MEFA)
Blog post with resources for Massachusetts studentsFAFSA Form (U.S. Department of Education)
Fill out the FAFSA form online12 Common FAFSA Mistakes (U.S. Department of Education)
Pitfalls to avoidSchedule a 30-minute call for one-on-one help (American Student Assistance)
Stumped or overwhelmed? Help is available.Opportunities for After High School (MEFA)
Recorded spring 2021 webinar on college, program, and funding options for the fallFinancial aid glossary (College Board)
Get help with terms like "net price," "demonstrated need," and more
SCHOLARSHIPS - Class of 2022
Bedford Dollars for Scholars information will be coming out in early 2022.
Scholarship Transcript Requests
It is the students’ responsibility to submit transcripts for scholarship applications. We are happy to print and/or email you a copy of your transcript.
If you need an “official transcript” we will give it to you in a sealed official envelope.
You can request your transcript(s) directly with Mrs. Tobe, or send her an email at: Meredith_Tobe@Bedfordps.org
Scholarship Letters of Recommendation
Students should reach out to the staff member who wrote the recommendation, so they can either release the recommendation to the student, or send it in on their behalf.
OPEN SCHOLARSHIPS
The following scholarship opportunities below have upcoming deadlines apply to these programs today!
APIA Scholars
APIA Scholars provides scholarships to qualified students of Asian and Pacific Islander heritage pursuing an undergraduate degree at a U.S.-accredited college or university. Scholarships range from one-time $2,500 awards to multi-year $20,000 awards. Learn more and apply. Application closes: January 26, 2022
Scholarship Opening for Military Families
The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation awards need-based scholarships to the children of Marines attending accredited colleges, community colleges, and career technical education programs. The scholarship application for the 2022-23 academic year opens on January 1, 2022, and will close on March 1, 2022. For more information on eligibility or to apply, visit mcsf.org/apply. Email Scholarship@mcsf.org with questions, or call 866-496-5462.
PARENTS
Bedford Health and Human Services Department and
The Massachusetts Partnership for Youth Workshop “Just Talk About It”
The Bedford Health and Human Services Department and The Massachusetts Partnership for Youth are pleased to present a workshop entitled “Just Talk About It” via Zoom on Monday, February 14th from 3-4:30 pm. The workshop is geared towards caregivers of adolescents facing mental health challenges. The goal of the program is to teach adults how to utilize inclusive and supportive strategies to identify, understand, and respond to adolescent mental health challenges. All are welcome. To view the flyer or sign up for the webinar please click here. For more information please contact Mackenzie Comeau, Bedford Youth Social Worker at mcomeau@bedfordma.gov or at 781-918-4331.
College Guidance Network Event
College Kickoff Part II: Jumpstart Your College Search
Thursday, February 24th, 2022
730 PM EST
Description: At this stage of the journey, 11th graders and their supporters are often a combination of excited and intimidated by the prospect of applying to and paying for college. By the end of this program we hope you will maintain your excitement, and feel less overwhelmed. It’s time to take action on your college search. We’ll offer up best practices as well as common mistakes to avoid.
Career Pathways Program at Bedford High School
Career Conversation with Elena Rozzi Pellegrino, LMHC
Students interested in the field of counseling and social services should attend this Friday’s Career Conversation with Licensed Mental Health Counselor Elena Rozzi Pellegrino.
Elena will be sharing her expertise in the field of counseling along with her background and journey. She will also discuss what it takes to have your own counseling practice and the education required to become a LMHC.
Please join the following ZOOM link on Friday February 4th during Flex
Join Zoom Meeting
https://bedfordps-org.zoom.us/j/88551444663
Bedford High School is partnering with the local business community to expose our students to a variety of career paths. Students become motivated and self-directed when they discover a potential career field of interest. Hands-on exposure and information to careers help students make informed post high school plans.
There are three aspects to our Career Pathways and Planning Program:
Career Speakers: We host two Career Speakers per month. They will be held via ZOOM during the student's Flex Block Period (10:22am-11:30am). Interested students sign up ahead of time. Sessions are approximately 40 minutes in length. Topics our speakers cover include, but are not limited to: a day in the life, the personal journey (what was your path like), necessary education, advice for high school students, what you enjoy most, and then questions.
- Job Shadow Program: Provide students with a half-day immersive experience on a job site, allowing students to observe, interact, and learn from experts in the field. Students can be placed individually or in small groups depending on the business/occupation. Prior to being placed students take a Career Aptitude Test to help them determine a particular area of interest. The Job Shadow Program would happen once a year for our sophomore class in early spring.
- Internships: Would only be offered to seniors who have a demonstrated interest in a particular field. The internships would provide real world experience and responsibility, students must complete an interview with the participating company. Students would be placed based on company approval. Internships can occur during or after the school day. (More information to follow on our Internship Program).
If you would like to participate in our Career Program, please complete the following GOOGLE form or contact Brian DeChellis at 781 275-1700 ext. 4414 or brian_dechellis@bedfordps.org
Google Form Link:
A “Fit” Over Rankings: Why College Engagement Matters More Than Selectivity
A “Fit” Over Rankings: Why College Engagement Matters More Than Selectivity
May 14, 2021
Based on the Challenge Success survey data of more than 100,000 high school students across the country, we know that the college admissions process can often be a top source of stress and anxiety for students. While many schools, counselors, and parents encourage students to focus on finding the “right fit” college, this advice can be difficult to follow without a better understanding of what “fit” means and what matters most — both for learning and engagement in college — and for life outcomes beyond college.
This paper reviews and synthesizes key research in order to address many of the important questions and concerns we hear from students, parents, and schools about the college admissions process: What do college rankings really measure? Are students who attend more selective colleges better off later in life? What is “fit” and why does it matter?
Download Executive Summary Here: A “FIT” OVER RANKINGS
Join our Bedford Challenge Success community on social media!
Twitter: @chalsuccessbhs
Instagram: @challengesuccessbhs
Facebook: Challenge Success Bedford High School (this is a closed group)
For more information about BHS-Challenge Success please contact Cynthia Vitti (cynhere@comcast.net) or Lori Popkewitz Alper (lorialper@gmail.com)
BEDFORD SEPAC (Special Education Parental Advisory Council)
All parents & guardians of Bedford special education welcome!
Web: bedfordsepac.com
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/BEDFORDMASEPAC/
BEDFORD SEPAC (Special Education Parental Advisory Council)
All parents & guardians of Bedford special education welcome!
Web: bedfordsepac.com
Facebook group: https://www.facebook. com/groups/BEDFORDMASEPAC/
February SEPAC Meeting
Thursday, February 17, 2022, at 7 PM on zoom
Meeting ID: 867 9484 5472
Passcode: 009189
Massachusetts Sibling Support Network Presents - No sibling left behind
Thursday, January 27, 2022, at 7 PM on zoom
All are welcome!
No Sibling Left Behind:
Designed for parents of young siblings or professionals.
Addresses the overall sibling experience of what it’s like to grow up with a brother/sister with a disability. Provides strategies to support siblings.
Explores current trends in sibling research and the growing sibling movement.
Includes an adult sibling panel that will address questions and concerns.
zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88131145041?pwd=eTcwMnFNeExOYkxaUW5mZElKc3FwZz09
Meeting ID: 881 3114 5041
Passcode: 562772
2021/2022 SEPAC Monthly Meeting dates
February 17
March 24
April 28
May 19 (guest Marianne Vines)
June 9
Meetings begin at 7 PM
*Location and/or Zoom to be shared 2 weeks prior to meetings on SEPAC Facebook and webpage
Senior Dates and Deadlines
Yearbook Orders: After January 21 the cost will be $100.00.
You may place your order here
Please make checks out to BHS 2021/2022 yearbook.
Important Information for the Class of 2022
Please help us to have a successful yearbook by getting an early start.
Send all pictures that you would like to be considered for the yearbook to www.hjeshare.com. Enter the school code: Bedford (capital B). Please identify who the students are in the pictures. Please use full names not nicknames when you submit your baby picture. Please only submit one baby picture. If you do not identify your baby picture you run the risk of not being in the yearbook.
The official photographer for the senior portraits is Mark Lawrence Photographers. Their phone number is 603-882-0116. Please contact them for an appointment. If you have any questions in regards to any of the information. Please contact Mrs. Santos. Her email is karen_santos@bedfordps.org
If you decide to take your own pictures. Please be aware of the size. It must be 2.5 X 3 with a DPI of 300. Yearbook staff will contact you if your picture does not follow these guidelines.
If you have any questions in regards to any of the information. Please contact Mrs. Santos. at karen_santos@bedfordps.org
Past Due Dates
October 22nd- Senior Portraits-Please contact Mark Lawrence Photography @603-882-0116 to make your appointment.
October 8th- Senior Class Photo
The senior class photo will be taken on the football field. The picture will take place during flex block that day. (10:22-11:32) It will not take the whole time. Seniors please listen for the announcement on that day. Let Mrs Santos know if you have any questions.
October 8th- Individual baby pictures/Elementary photos. Please make sure when you upload your baby picture to include your name, first and last. If there is no name you run the risk of not being in the yearbook. Send to: www.hjeshare.com
Enter the code: Bedford(capital letter “B”)
October 8th- “Senior Thanks” (limit of 175 words) Please note: Text slang and most abbreviations are not acceptable. Drug or alcohol references are not acceptable. Send your “senior thanks” in a word document to: bhs2022yearbook@gmail.com
December 10th- Business Ads- Anyone with 2 business ads gets a free yearbook.
December 10th- Parent Ads. The 2021-2022 forms will be sent to the parents.
It's that time of year...
Senior students, please complete the form with the Cap and Gown order link above to order your cap & gown for graduation by December 21, 2021!
If you have any questions, please let me know.
Thanks,
Nicole Myles M.Ed
Class of 2022 Advisor
Graduation is Thursday, June 2, 2022
Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell
6:15pm
There are no tickets for the event as there is ample seating for all friends and family members. Mark your calendars. It will be here sooner than you think!
Need a student parking sticker?
How do I...
Get dismissed? Please bring a note to the main office in the morning. (or call 781-275-1700) Students will be given a dismissal pass to show the teacher and head right out of class at the dismissal time. This helps us to reduce the number of class disruptions.
Get a locker? Your Advisor will supply you with a lock. You will select a locker, then your Advisor will record your locker number and combination just in case you forget it. It happens!
Get my Aspen ID? If you need your ID or are having trouble logging in please contact tech_support@bedfordps.org
Find my lost items? The lost and found bin can be found in the student office.
Pick up a dropped off item? Please stop by the student office and look for the student drop off area sign. (Parents/Guardians, please label item your dropping with name) Please note; we do not interrupt classes for drop offs. Please stop by between classes to check for your item.
Find out more about grading and courses? You may find this and many other helpful pieces of information in your Program of Studies found here
Know who to contact for help? (please see page 6)
Get a parking sticker? You will not need a sticker until the end of September. Please fill out the Google Form here and your Assistant Principal will deliver it to your lunch or Advisory. There is no fee for parking at Bedford High School.
Bedford High School
Bedford High School Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 7:45am - 2:24pm
Wednesday 7:45 am - 12:55 pm
9 Mudge Way, Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: 781-275-1700
Absence Line: 781-918-4561
Fax: 781-275-6664