Monthly Archives: November 2021
Bake Sale Today! (Murray) All Classes
BLS YEMA (Youth Emergency Medicine Association) is hosting a winter themed bake sale on Tuesday, November 30th. Make sure to come visit us outside after school in front of the building entrance!
Tuesday, November 30, 2021 Day 1
Free STEM programs for 11th graders through MIT (Luu) Class II
Are you a current junior who is passionate about STEM and want to pursue these areas in college? Apply to be part of the MIT MITES and MOSTEC Programs! If selected, there is NO COST to attend. For more information and how to apply, click on the following:
summerapp.secure-platform.com/a
drive.google.com/file/d/15i53Rq0ym9ASv5T5bDv0l1HaL2ps5S4h/view?usp=sharing
Lunch Assignment Shift (Mulhern) All Classes
Human Rights Day Follow-Up: Anti-Nuclear Petition (Freeman/Trapanick) All Classes
As part of a Human Rights Day presentation on the danger of nuclear war, the Topol Fellows began a petition to be brought to the Boston City Council seeking the adoption of a resolution that would support nuclear disarmament and abolition. Cities from Cambridge to Tucson and Salt Lake City have already passed similar resolutions, all unanimously. Before presenting the petition to the Council, we are seeking additional signatures. If you’re interested in signing or simply finding out more, follow this link: bit.ly/backfromthebrink-hrd. We are aiming to get to 500 signatures–we would greatly appreciate your support!
NHS Applications (Finnigan, LeDang-Collins) Class II, I
Seniors and juniors who meet the minimum GPA requirement (3.5 and 3.7, respectively) have been invited to apply for induction into the National Honor Society. All necessary information has been emailed directly to the students to whom this applies. The deadline to submit applications is Wednesday, 12/1/21 at 4 PM. Questions? Email Mr. Finnigan (pfinnigan2@bostonpublicschools.org) and Ms. LeDang-Collins (tledang@bostonpublicschools.org).
Monday, November 29, 2021 Day 6
CIEE Global Navigator Summer Program (Kennelly) Class IV, III, II
The CIEE Global Navigator program is now accepting applications for summer 2022. BLS students should apply for Session II programs. BLS will host application workshops in December and January. Start or complete your application today.
Chromebook Quick Tip (Payne-Hall) All Classes
Hello Hello Everyone! Just a gentle reminder for all who use Chromebooks, please try to shut your Chromebook completely off every 2 days at least if not daily. To make sure it turns completely off, press and hold the power button until the light on the left side of the Chromebook goes off and then you can close the lid. It can relieve a lot of minor issues that can lead to later major issues.
BLS TV Reaches for the Stretchy Pants (Kearns) All Classes
Before you take that tryptophan nap, check out the latest from your thankful friends at BLS TV. If you’re reading this after 8:00 AM Wednesday, then that link is live! No turkeys were harmed in the making of this episode.
Information for Thanksgiving Day Game (Owens) All Classes
On Thanksgiving Day, we resume our longstanding, continuous rivalry with the English High School.
Here are logistical details for the game:
Game Time: 10am, Gates open 9am Location: Harvard Stadium – 79 N. Harvard St. Allston, MA Tickets: $5 General Admission, Cash only Programs: $5, Cash only
Entry/Exit: There will be one entrance into the stadium. All spectators will enter through Gate H. This is at the opposite end of the Stadium than the customary entrance. BLS is the visiting team this year. BLS fans will go right when entering the stadium to the stands Parking: Parking is available in the Webster gated lot
Concessions: Gridiron Club will be selling concessions in addition to some apparel and other merchandise Miscellaneous: The water has been turned off at the stadium. There will be portable restrooms available for use Broadcast: The game will air LIVE on Boston City TV (Xfinity Ch. 24, RCN Ch. 13, Verizon Fios Ch. 962) only in Boston; Everyone else can view on Youtube: youtu.be/lxbC0WHaogg
HAVE YOU APPLIED FOR A SUCCESSLINK JOB YET? APPLY TODAY! (Luu) Class IV, III, II, I
Application open until November 28th. The SuccessLink Youth Jobs Program hires nearly 4,000 youth, ages 15-18, every year! Earn $13.50 an hour for up to 10 hours a week. We work with 100+ organizations to provide jobs in fields like Music/Art, STEM, Government, Education, etc.
Wednesday, November 24, 2021 Day 5
BLS Debate Team Continues Its Successful Season (Yoruk) All Classes
BLS Debate Team Continues Its Successful Season
This weekend, members of the Boston Latin School Speech and Debate team saw competitive success during the Glenbrooks National Speech and Debate Tournament.
Sam Chen (III) and Neil Jin (III) triple finaled in Public Forum Debate and received their second silver bid to the Tournament of Champions (TOC) national tournament in April.
Selina Tang (II) and Cinly Mo (II) reached octafinals, receiving a gold bid to the Tournament of Champions, earning recognition in a pool of over 350 competitors.
Maya Nelson (II) placed in Congressional Debate semifinals and received her second bid to the TOC, fully qualifying her to attend the prestigious tournament.
The team additionally competed at the local Little Lex Tournament, hosted by Lexington High School. Marcus Burkes Nossiter (III) was awarded top novice, going undefeated in Lincoln Douglas (LD) Debate
Bella Guthrie (III) and Zoe Fulton (III) continued on their winning streak with a winning record in LD Debate, and qualified for the Massachusetts State Championship at the end of the season.
Raymond Xu (I) and Ronak Saluja (I) competed in the Varsity Public Forum division, earning a winning record and qualifying for the Massachusetts State Championship.
Congratulations to everyone who competed!
UNAGB Summer Programs (Kennelly) All Classes
United Nations Assoc. of Greater Boston spring and summer global leadership programs are now accepting applications. It’s never too early to start planning.
Spirit Day, Wednesday, November 24 Scheduling (Skerritt) All Classes
We are excited to return to in-person rallies in the upper gym this year and need your support in making Spirit Day safe and enjoyable for all. Please note:
There will not be a W Day on Wednesday, November 24 and the bell schedule will run as follows:
R1: Special programming for sixies (for all other grades, Day 5, R1 class)
R2: Rally 1 for Class III and IV
R3: Rally 2 for Class VI and V
R4: Rally 3 for Class I and II
Pep rallies will take place in the upper gym and all attendees will be masked at all times. November 24 is a half day, ending after R4. We understand that some students and staff may feel more comfortable in a less crowded space. As an alternative, we are reserving the Dining Hall throughout the morning for those who wish to opt out of the rallies. If you prefer to be in the Dining Hall during the period your grade is scheduled to attend the rally, you must complete this brief form by Monday, November 22 at 3:00 p.m. This form may also be found on student and staff-facing SIS pages.
No Early Dismissals on Wednesday, November 24 (unless for documented medical appointments) (Skerritt) All Classes
To minimize confusion and ensure student safety on what we know will be a very busy day, we are requesting that unless students have documented medical appointments that there be no early dismissals on Wednesday. As a reminder, students are permitted five days of excused absences in their BLS careers over and above absences allowed for illness, religious holidays and other obligations. Students who would need to leave school early to accommodate travel arrangements or otherwise, are advised to consider using one of their five career absences. You can find the absence policy on pages 7-9 in the BLS 2021-22 Agenda Book and the absence form here.
No Homework Over Thanksgiving Break (Skerritt) All Classes
As a reminder and in keeping with the BLS homework policy in the 2021-2022 Student Handbook (page 15), homework will not be assigned over Thanksgiving break. We wish the entire BLS community a safe, healthy, and restful Thanksgiving and long weekend.
Spirit Week (Sarkis/Encarnacao) All Classes
STUDENTS OF BLS! The week of November 22nd – 24th is SPIRIT WEEK! Monday’s theme is GRADE WARS! On November 22nd, wear your grade’s assigned color to school to show some spirit! The colors each grade should wear are as follows: 7th – white, 8th – blue, 9th – green, 10th – yellow, 11th – orange, 12th – red.
Tuesday’s theme for all classes with the exception of Class I is WINTER PJ DAY. Grades7-11, wear your pajamas to school! SENIORS – on Tuesday, November 23rd, wear your painted senior jeans/shirt!
Wednesday is SPIRIT DAY. All grades – rock your BLS gear or colors for Pep Rally!
drive.google.com/file/d/1HK2lu4iaJPupBLXQwcsQMp2DMxjkKRgQ/view?usp=sharing
Second Public Declamation Tryouts (Callum & Harari) All Classes
All interested students from all grades are encouraged to tryout for Second Public Declamation, which will take place Thursday, December 2nd in the auditorium after school between 2:30-4:30pm. Students may declaim a passage or abridged version of a poem, speech, book or play. The duration of the text may not exceed 2 minutes and 30 seconds. If interested, complete the Google form located here or on bls.org, and provide your contact information, along with the exact text you plan to perform. The submission form is due Thursday, November 30th. All seniors who want to participate must tryout. Only juniors who participated in Prize Declamation for the 2020-2021 year are exempt from tryouts. – The assembly is scheduled for Thursday, December 16th.
Thanksgiving ADs available (Owens) All Classes
Thanksgiving Program ADs For Sale:
Advertisements for the Latin/English Football program can now be purchased. Please email Coach Owens (jowens2@bostonpublicschools.org) a Word Document or PDF with picture and/or text exactly as you would like to see it in print.
Please use the following format for the file name. “(Name of athlete/business_AD_(Size of AD)”. Ex. “Smith_AD_Half”, “NewBalance_AD_Full”
1/4 Page: $50
1/2 Page: $75
3/4 Page: $100
Full Page: $150
Checks payable to: Boston Latin School, memo: Football
Tuesday, November 23, 2021 Day 4
“Careers in Sports” Panel, Monday, November 22 (Owens) All Classes
Are you a fan of Boston sports? Join our Zoom event at 7 PM tonight with guest speakers Larry Lucchino (former President/CEO of the Red Sox) and Wayne Levy (Director of Athletic Programs at the Boston Athletic Association)!
Meeting Info:
Topic: Careers in Sports with Larry Lucchino, Wayne Levy and more
Time: Nov 22, 2021 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
us02web.zoom.us/j/87448716795?pwd=a1U1MFQrTkdMcTVabUllT1ZlZENTUT09
For questions, please email wsahatjian@bostonk12.org, thuska@bostonk12.org, or grosenkranz@bostonk12.org.
Audition for A.S.I.A.’s annual Holiday Sing-Off (Chen) All Classes
Interested in showcasing your MC skills or musical talents? Audition for A.S.I.A.’s annual Holiday Sing-Off! Our theme this year is “Missed You Snow Much”. Fill out out the audition form before 11/22. Can’t wait to see your talents!
Pool Testing Next Monday, November 22 (Skerritt) All Classes
Pool testing will move next week from our regularly scheduled Wednesday to Monday, November 22. The shift to Monday will allow for results to be returned before the Thanksgiving break. Students, please continue to keep our campus safe by pool testing during studies, lunch, or after school.
Deadline for Sports Registration and Nurse Clearance (Owens) All Classes
Looking for a job during the school year? Look no further! (Luu) Class IV, III, II, I
Join a virtual info session hosted by the City of Boston Youth Employment & Engagement to learn more!
Mayor Michelle Wu & the City of Boston Department of Youth Engagement & Employment are excited to announce the launch of the 2021- 22 SuccessLink School Year Employment Program! Every year, the City of Boston partners with hundreds of community-based and nonprofit organizations across the city to provide meaningful employment opportunities to thousands of Boston youth ages 15 to 18. There are opportunities to work in a wide variety of job fields like the arts, government & advocacy, STEM, sports & recreation, childcare, education, and more!
Registration for Virtual Info Sessions:
Today Nov 17 5-6PM: link.upkne.com/c/443/2ed469c207e25eea598125a8babb995b3281404f860bcf215bae8d9d11b8f903b59c183910b57c3a
Thursday Nov 18 5-6PM: link.upkne.com/c/443/2ed469c207e25eea598125a8babb995b3281404f860bcf215bae8d9d11b8f903a3a380962ac20e9f
Monday, November 22, 2021 Day 3
Thanksgiving Meal Boxes Available (Delorme-Metayer)All Classes
We have Thanksgiving meal boxes for students and families who would like them. If you could benefit from a meal box, please email Ms. Delorme-Metayer at rdelormemetayer@bostonpublicschools.org.
PowderPuff Game – Monday 11/22 (Owens) Class I, II
BLS Students Accepted to Senior District Festival (McKenna) Class IV, III, II, I
Congratulations to all the students who auditioned for this year’s Senior District Festival. 27 students were accepted, and 16 also received an All-State recommendation. Bravo!
Band: Joanna Lin, French Horn; Jessie Wang, Flute (all-state rec)
Chorus: Mary Bosch, T (all-state rec); Marcus Burkes Nossiter, B (all-state rec); Zoe Colimon, T (all-state rec); Siena Furfaro, A (all-state rec); Ryan Golhmann, T; Alex Kolovrat, T; Tarun Nagesh, B; Leah Prizant, S (all-state rec); Jillian Ryan, A; Justine Wei, A
Jazz Band: Ian Bhatt, Tenor Saxophone (all-state rec); Constantine Kotsikonas, Trombone (all-state rec); Viny Saadieh, Baritone Saxophone (all-state rec); Stephen Snekvik, Trombone (all-state rec); Josh Zhang, Alto Saxophone (all-state rec)
Orchestra: Benjamin Fortuin, Viola (all-state rec); Vera Knobel, Violin; Jane Kungie, Oboe; Bessie Li, Flute (all-state rec); Kento Lind, Viola (all-state rec); Hannah Oh, Viola; Joseph Pucillo, String Bass (all-state rec); Ailin Sha, Violin; Selina Tang, Violin; Julia Yuan, Cello (all-state rec)
From the School Store: (De’Angelo) All Classes
Spirit Day is fast approaching…get your BLS swag and special spirit day items including Pom poms, purple and white beads and waterless tattoos! All items are available in the store on Friday during your lunch period. The store will also be open on Monday, November 22nd and Tuesday, November 23rd during lunch periods and Wednesday, November 24th before school 7-7:45am.
GO WOLFPACK!
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards (Carrigg) All Classes
Educators and students in grades 7 through 12 may register works of art and writing on the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards Online Registration System (ORS), which is accessible via www.artandwriting.org. All student participants must be at least 13 years old to participate in the program, regardless of their grade level. All work must be registered and uploaded to the ORS by 11:59 pm ET on Friday, December 10, 2021. Educators will not be required to sign submission forms this year so that we can ensure that all students, even those who are not seeing their teachers in person, are able to enter and participate.
The Register (Oakes and Mikalaitis) All Classes
The Register, BLS’s arts journal, is accepting submissions of original student writing and artwork. Send your poetry, artwork, short fiction, or photography to BLS.register@gmail.com. Submissions are open until Monday, 11/22.
BLS BLACK and TAG host Friendsgiving (Pinchem, Metayer, Jacobson-Peregrino) All Classes
BLS B.L.A.C.K. (Black Leaders Aspiring for Change and Knowledge) is hosting our 2nd annual Friendsgiving celebration on Tuesday, November 23 at 2:30 PM in the Dining Hall. Friendsgiving is a blend of the words “friend” and “Thanksgiving” and it refers to a large meal eaten with friends on or around Thanksgiving. This year, BLS TAG (Talented and Gifted Latino) will join us in hosting this amazing event.
In an effort to connect with the larger BLS community, we are inviting all students, faculty, and staff to join us to celebrate with games, fellowship, and traditional dishes from the African/African American and Latinx communities such as baked macaroni and cheese, seasoned collard greens, southern style corn bread, empanadas, arepas, and a variety of desserts including tres leches, flan, and sweet potato pie. If you would like to attend and bring your favorite family dish to share, please complete the Google form by scanning the QR code on the flyers posted around BLS. If you are unable to cook but still want to attend, feel free to sign up to bring cups, plates, utensils, a beverage, ice, or just yourself.
NOTE: You do not have to bring anything to attend. ALL ARE WELCOME and should complete the Google form regardless.
Although this is a potluck event, COVID guidelines for indoor gatherings will be enforced. No self serving, social distancing, and all attendees must remain masked unless actively eating.
Friday, November 19, 2021 Day 2
BLS Model UN excels at Catholic Memorial Conference (Moon) All Classes
Congratulations to the BLS Model UN team for their phenomenal performance at Catholic Memorial’s Model UN Conference this past Saturday. All delegates did amazing work, but special shout outs to the following individuals for their achievements in their committees:
Carine Badawi (I) Best Delegate Award
Aidan Aaphiris (III) Best Delegate Award
Oriana Dunker (IV) Best Delegate Award
Mia. Chow (I) Outstanding Delegate Award
Abir Mohammed (I) Outstanding Delegate Award
Roan Wilcox (IV) Outstanding Delegate Award
Greta Grygalis (I) Honorable Mention
William Phie (I) Honorable Mention
Ben Jacobson (IV) Honorable Mention
Grace Sullivan (I) People’s choice Award
If you are interested in joining BLS Model UN, come to 207 on Mondays or email bostonlatinschoolmun@gmail.com
Coin Wars – Vote for your favorite teacher to be pied! (Sarkis/Encarnacao) All Classes
Coin wars have begun! Donate your money or change to either vote for or protect one of your favorite teachers from getting pied in the face during the junior/senior pep rally! Who could be pied? Ms. Arnold, Ms. Moguel, Ms. Foley, Mr. Cordeiro, and Mr. Oakes. It’s up to you! Here’s how it works: any quarters added to the jug will count towards the teacher’s total, but any dollar bills will subtract from it! (If you want a teacher to get pied, keep adding quarters to add to their total, but if you want to protect them, dollar bills will subtract from their totals.) The teacher with the most amount of money will get pied! Donate your money during lunch starting Monday November 15th until Friday November 19th. Proceeds go to the senior class.
Thursday, November 18, 2021 Day 1
BLSTV Gets Sworn In (Kearns) All Classes
Celebrate Boston’s historic transition of power with a new episode of BLSTV. Mayor Wu will be watching.* Will you? Link goes live Wednesday at 8:00 AM
*The Mayor’s Office does not endorse this message, mostly because we didn’t ask.
Wolfpack Volunteers/Clough Center W Block Volunteering BLS (Kennelly) All Classes
BLS Wolfpack Volunteers Global Day of Service
Calling all students! Want to make a difference in your community? Want to unleash your creativity? Want to earn volunteer hours? Join us this W-Block to create handwritten cards and letters for seniors and spread joy! Materials will be provided. We hope to see you there!
When: November 17th, W-Block in the Dining Hall!
Email us at wolfpackvolunteersbls@gmail.com for any questions!
Click here for an electronic pass to show your homeroom teacher
docs.google.com/document/d/1jG3Z1TkLLtuvQqQsJzhWfLhkVZPNW9d4OS2KLJXBYis/edit?usp=sharing
BLSJCL and Chess Club Present: Ludus Latrunculorum Chess Tournament! **AIRPOD PRIZE** (Moguel) All Classes
The BLSJCL and Chess Club officers are hosting a school-wide chess tournament! Come to have fun, show off your awesome chess skillz, learn about Ancient Roman chess, and potentially win prizes of AirPods and BLSJCL merch! This is open to all players. Sign up at bit.ly/blsjcludi!
WHEN: Wednesday, November 17th (5 Preliminary Rounds [for all players]) — 2:30pm – 4:00pm | Thursday, November 18th (Elimination Rounds [for qualifying players]) WHERE: Seevak Room (309)
BLS International Education Week (Kennelly) All Classes
Celebrate International Education Week at BLS with this program of activities.
docs.google.com/document/d/1iDB9nJDZz0PePCHzCvwcsAX39putzGx49YSbLyPWVsU/edit?usp=sharing
Human Rights Day Orange t-shirts (Freeman) All Classes
It is a tradition on the annual Human Rights Day teach in for students to wear their orange t-shirts with individualized human rights-related statistics on the front of each shirt and then line up during each period to present their “statistic” to the audience.
Orange t-shirts will be for sale by the Topol Fellows during all three lunch periods and before school on Monday, November 15, Tuesday, November 16, and Wednesday, November 17.
The price will be $5 per t-shirt.
docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ZczgSdrRRg1ORHCkLS7OeLpTGZ6PVJviLxBKpo2FQ0w/edit?usp=sharing
The annual Human Rights Day teach-in (Freeman) All Classes
Organized by the Topol Fellows in Peace and Non-Violence , this year’s Human Rights Day will take place on Thursday, November 18, 2021 (day 1). The BLS community is encouraged to wear their Human Rights Day orange t-shirts on that day and those wearing their t-shirts will participate in the sessions attended. See the separate announcement on t-shirt sales.
Please encourage your teachers to sign up via Sign Up Genius to attend Human Rights Day. There is a capacity limit due to COVID this year, so we will livestream IF we reach capacity.
If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Freeman (jfreeman@bostonpublicschools.org). And as always, thanks for your support of our annual Human Rights Day.
2021 Winter Concerts Program Cover Contest (Pierce) All Classes
Friends of the Arts is now accepting entries of artwork to be chosen for the cover of the 2021 Winter Concerts program. The contest is open to all BLS students, and there is one $100 first prize and two $50 runner-up prizes. Programs will be in two formats, some digital and some printed. The runner-up artwork will also be featured in both formats.
The program’s artwork should be 5” x 7”. Remember the art pieces should allow room for text, so please consider this while coming up with your design. To see examples of past winter arts program winners click below:
Editorial Guidance: The artwork can refer to BLS/Winter/Music. BLS is a melting pot of cultures and value systems, therefore the artwork should have universal appeal. It is important to be sensitive to peoples of all faiths and non-believers alike, so the artwork should not include religious references and/or images solely associated with one culture’s beliefs.
Art should be created and/or scanned at a resolution of 300dpi and should be submitted to the Friends of the Arts by e-mail with a subject line reading Art Contest Entry. Email submissions to SprezzaturaVT@gmail.com. The deadline is Tuesday November 23rd, 2021, by 6:00 p.m. Direct any questions to Vali Tamm at valitamm@yahoo.com.
BLS Cultural Clubs Fair Thursday (Kennelly) All Classes
Learn more about the many different cultural clubs at BLS. Enjoy food, entertainment, and see your friends celebrating their culture and heritage. Thursday after school in the dining hall. All students are welcome!
Wednesday, November 17, 2021 Day W-6
Fiber Arts meet-up during W block on 11/17 (Harari) All Classes
Do you knit? Crochet? Embroider? Bring your current project down to the library during W, meet other crafters, pick up some tips! Maybe you’ve longed to start a new craft and want to get some ideas — this is the place for you. Stop by the library on Tuesday or Wednesday morning to get a pass to give to your homeroom teacher.
Keefe Library is closed for study hall students Tues. 11/16 Tuesday 11/16 (Ellis) All Classes
The Keefe Library will be closed from R4 – R7 on Tuesday 11/16 because of MCAS testing. We will be open after school.
Attention Student Filmmakers! Emerging Voices Film Grant (Luu) All Classes
Steven Yee ’07 is offering three grants for students who have a strong interest in filmmaking and who have at least 3 previous works.
“I remember buying my first camera when I was in the film studies program at my college. I saved up money from on campus jobs and bought a Canon Rebel T2i and spent the entire summer shooting content and improving my skills behind the camera. This unlocked a whole new world of possibilities and gave me a jump start to my filmmaking career.
Film equipment is expensive, and I want to give an opportunity to the younger generation to experience the joy of getting their first camera and exploring their creativity.”
Applicants must identify with a minority group. For more information and how to apply, please go to www.woodislandmedia.com/grant
Remember to Keep Your Chromebook Up To Date (Hourigan) All Classes
Please make sure to keep your Chromebook updated. Click the three dots in the upper right corner and choose “Help -> About Google Chrome”. Click the link towards the top of the settings page to check for updates. If you have questions, let a member of the tech team know.
Tuesday, November 16, 2021 Day 5
Sophomore Resume Lab Begins Nov 15 (Levesque) Class III
The annual Sophomore Resume Lab will begin Monday, November 15. All members of Class III are required to attend this one-time workshop, facilitated during a study block. Led by Mr. Levesque (Deitch Leadership) and Ms. Gorrill (PIC Office), students will learn the fundamentals of a professional resume and build their own resume in real time. Students will be scheduled and notified in advance via email. Email questions to jlevesque@bostonpublicschools.org or lucey.gorrill@bostonpic.org.
Monday, November 15, 2021 Day 4
BLS Global Partner Fair (Kennelly) All Classes
Interested in Travel / Study programs? Attend the BLS Global Partners Fair Monday after school in the dining hall and meet representatives from CIEE, United Planet, Alzar School, Geothe Institute and more. Refreshments served!
Come see the Yellow Submarine Improv Troupe in New and Improv’d (Gels) All Classes
The Yellow Submarine Improv Troupe is back and they are New and Improv’d. Friday November 12 at 3pm and 7pm. Students from BLS and faculty are welcome to attend in person in the Black Box. $3 for students and $5 for adults. All parents/family/friends who are not currently at the school must attend virtually. Bostonlatin.ticketleap.com/newandimprovd for tickets
Friday, November 12, 2021 Day 3
Last call for AP Classroom Registration (Kennelly) Class III, II, I
Friday is the absolute last day for AP Classroom Registration. Any Registrations after Friday will incur a $40 late registration fee. Check your College Board account for your AP Classroom registration status.
BLSTV Turns Back the Clock (Kearns) All Classes
Feeling “off” since the end of Daylight Saving Time? A shot of BLSTV will fix you right up! As always, the link goes live at 8:00 AM Wednesday.
Submit your senior profile and pictures today! (Craven) Class I
Submit pictures and profiles to blsyearbook1635@gmail.com that you would like to publish in the yearbook. Click on this link for information about how to submit your profiles and pictures. Each picture and profile must be sent as a separate attachment. Pictures that are sent in multiples will be returned to the sender.
Boys Soccer Wrap up for Returning Players (Osowiecki) All Classes
On Wednesday, November 10, there will be a brief end of season meeting for all boys interested in playing BLS soccer next year. The meeting will be in the Seevak Room at 3:30 pm. The coaches will talk about our thoughts on this year and what you can do to best prepare for next year.
City of Boston-SuccessLink Jobs Deadline: 11/28/21 (Vasquez) Class IV, III, II, I
Are you looking for a school year job? Apply for SuccessLink Youth Jobs Program that hires nearly 4,000 youth, ages 15-18, every year! Earn $13.50 an hour for up to 10 hours a week. Application open until 11/28/21. Please see Ms. Vasquez (RM 022B) if you need help with your application.
Following up on Student Agenda Book Concern (Skerritt) All Classes
It has been brought to our attention that there is a section in the Student Agenda Book that treats bullying and intolerance in an insensitive and uninformed fashion with inappropriate examples and statements. This section of the Handbook is not produced by BLS but is automatically inserted by the publisher each year. We have now been in touch with the publisher who is extremely grateful for this information and will make certain that this component is eliminated from future editions. We are very appreciative of our students who communicated with us regarding this issue.
Picture Make-up Day (Craven) All Classes
Photo Make-Up Day
Any student who is requesting to retake the picture for the package they purchased, or who missed the opportunity to be photographed for picture packages on October 6, and any student who has not been photographed for identification cards, will be photographed during periods 5, 6, and 7 on Tuesday, December 14 in the Seevak Room on the third floor. To allow for planning, please see Mrs. Craven in room 105 before school or during a W period by December 10 for a picture package order envelope or a pass to be excused from class for ten minutes to be photographed. Please email me at acraven@bostonpublicschools if you have any questions.
Help a Community out! – Major Community Service Opportunity (Murray) All Classes
Boston Latin School’s VITA club is kicking off soon, and it is a perfect chance to learn about taxes, financial literacy, and help out local communities. In short, BLS VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) is a club focused on helping middle and low income families complete their taxes. Drop by after school this Friday in room 027 to learn more!
For more information email blsvitaboston@gmail.com
Dignity Matters Drive (Nov 1 – Nov 12th) (BLS Girls Volleyball) All Classes
Please help BLS Girls Volleyball as we support Dignity Matters by running a sports bra donation drive. Dignity Matters is a non-profit that collects, purchases and supplies feminine hygiene products, bras and underwear to women and girls who are homeless or disadvantaged, in order to help them stay healthy, regain self-confidence, and live with basic dignity. Although the team is hosting a sports bra drive, all listed donations are accepted. The donation bins are located in the Nurse’s office. The most requested items are larger sizes. Please contact Holly Sullivan at hjsullivan1@gmail.com for more info or to make a donation directly through amazon.
Wednesday, November 9, 2021 Day 2
Senior Class Wacky Wednesdays (Encarnacao) Class I
This week’s Wacky Wednesday (Wednesday, November 10th) is “Animal Day”. Dress up as your favorite animal, rock your favorite animal prints, or if you have any clothes with animals on it, show your love that way. No matter how you do it, please be sure to follow the school dress code guidelines. Have fun!
BLS International Education Week (Kennelly) All Classes
Next week is International Education Week at BLS. There will be daily programming, both virtual and in person, on global travel and learning programs available to BLS students. The full schedule will be available later this week.
BLS Volleyball – MIAA Playoffs (Owens) All Classes
The BLS Girls Volleyball team won their first round playoff match on Thursday v. Hingham! The Wolfpack will travel to Needham HS on Tuesday (11/8) at 5pm in the round of 16. Tickets can be purchased here – gofan.co/app/events/446103?schoolId=MA14659 or cash at the gate. Go Wolfpack!
Library is Closed Tues. 11/9 (Ellis) All Classes
The library will be closed all day and after school due to MCAS testing and professional development on Tuesday 11/9.
Join HTS & Do Better at BLS (Dycaj/Mr. Barry) Class VI, V, IV
Are you someone who struggles with time management, organization skills, declamation preparation, and much more? Fortunately, HTS @BLS is a new club that will help students adjust to in-person learning efficiently and effectively. Our first meeting will be on Wednesday, November 10 at @2:30 pm in Room 209. Join now using our google form or email kdycaj@bostonk12.org for more information. forms.gle/gVL5rbPcHopFsdyq5
Tuesday, November 9, 2021 Day 1
AP Exam Registration: Last Call (Kennelly) Class III, II, I
Last call for AP exam registration. All students must be registered on AP Classroom or an exam will not be ordered. Check your College Board account to confirm your registration.
Make an Impact During Lunch: Become a Zone Captain (Hamilton) Class VI, V
BLS Recycling Committee is looking for middle school Zone Captains to guide their peers in understanding how to sort trays, recyclables, and food waste during lunch. They will be stationed at recycling bins in the Upper Gym during the last 10 minutes of the lunch period and will receive 20 minutes of community service each day. As a Zone Captain, you will be able to complete your 50 indoor volunteer hour requirement in a school year and avoid the lunch line.
We are only accepting middle school students this time. If you’re interested, please fill out this form by Friday, November 5th 11:59 PM. There are 12 slots, first come, first serve.
MCAS Exams for Select Students in Classes II and I: Nov 9 and Nov 16 (Delorme-Metayer)
MCAS Math & English Language Arts Make-up exams will take place next week and the week after. Class II students who did not take the MCAS last spring take the Math MCAS on Tuesday, November 9 the English MCAS on Tuesday, November 16. Passing the MCAS is a graduation requirement for the Class of 2023. A list of the students will be shared with Class II homeroom teachers ahead of Tuesday November 9th. Students will report to homeroom for daily attendance, and homeroom teachers will dismiss those who are testing down to the Dining Hall. All juniors who took MCAS last year should report to their classes per usual.
Homeroom teachers of students in Class I who registered for the make-up MCAS exams on November 9 and 16 will also receive a list of test takers ahead of November 9th. MCAS exams are voluntary for the Class of 2022, and those taking it for Adams Scholarship consideration have already indicated their intent to participate. Those students will report to homeroom for daily attendance, and homeroom teachers will dismiss those who are testing down to the Dining Hall. All other seniors should report to their classes per usual.
The MCAS will be administered in the Dining Hall and proctored by members of the administrative team, as faculty members will be teaching in classrooms for those students who are not testing.
Stock Market Challenge (Levesque) Class IV, III, II, I
DLI will partner with Junior Achievement to offer Take Stock in Your Future, an interactive program introducing students to the stock market. Using JA’s curriculum, Mr. Levesque will teach 4 (virtual) workshops about stock market fundamentals, such as buying/selling, IPOs, dividends, and risk/return, culminating in a stock market simulation and competition in early December among student teams. Classes begin Tuesday November 9, 4:00-5:00pm, over Zoom. Sign up HERE. Email jlevesque@bostonpublicschools.org with questions.
Student Absence, Early Dismissal, and Late Arrival Reporting (Lane)
This year BLS is having families submit absence, early dismissal, and late arrival notes using an online google form. Here is the link. It is located at bls.org under the Families tab.
docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhcTWU5DOp32CFagaQMOQkwcY3r1haTQ4teQb7Pqj3ocP80w/viewform
Monday, November 8, 2021 Day 6
Come see BLS Theatre’s One Acts (Gels) All Classes
Come see BLS Theatre’s Rising Stars (all 7th to 9th grade actors) in the One Acts: Anxiety is Orange, Container of Sharks, and 10 ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse. Thursday at 3pm. Friday at 3pm and 7pm. Only BLS students, faculty, and staff may attend in person, no parents or others. To attend in person you can purchase tickets at the door. Parents and others can watch remotely, purchase tickets at bostonlatin.ticketleap.com/blsoneacts/ Tickets are $3 for students and $7 for adults
Latin/English Program ADs available (Owens) All Classes
Thanksgiving Program ADs For Sale:
Advertisements for the Latin/English Football program can now be purchased. Please email Coach Owens (jowens2@bostonpublicschools.com) a Word Document or PDF with picture and/or text exactly as you would like to see it in print. Please use the following the format for the file name.
“(Name of athlete/business_AD_(Size of AD)”.
Ex. “Smith_AD_Half”, “NewBalance_AD_Full”
1/4 Page: $50
1/2 Page: $75
3/4 Page: $100
Full Page: $150
Friday, November 5, 2021 Day 5
Global Citizens Initiative (GCI) Summer Fellowship (Kennelly) Class IV, III, II
Are you interested in learning about global issues with peers from around the world at a two week summit in Scotland? Learn more at the GCI info session this Saturday on Zoom. Financial aid is available for qualified students. More info and sign up here. Contact Mr. Kennelly for more info.
Opportunity to travel free to another part of the US as part of the American Exchange Project in summer 2022 (Freeman) Class I
What would happen if students from “blue” states spent a week staying with a family in a “red” state and vice versa? Would we be able to go beyond our “bubbles” and get beyond the polarization so present in our nation?
Would you like to participate next summer in the American Exchange Project, an all-travel expenses-paid opportunity to have this experience in another state and host someone who travels to Boston in late June or July as part of this program? Students can still work during the day and participate in the Boston portion but will need to be able to take a week off to travel to another state and participate there.
If you have any questions, please see Ms. Freeman in 307 or e-mail her at jfreeman@bostonpublicschools.org
If you are interested in getting more detail about this opportunity, please plan on joining a Zoom session on Thursday, November 4 at 9:12 am (at the start of W block). In order to receive the Zoom link, please complete this form.
Help spread the word!- Community Service Opportunity (Murray) All Classes
Need a few hours of community service? Boston Latin School’s VITA is offering an opportunity to make 2 community service hours a day in exchange for putting up flyers about the 2021 Child Tax Credit around one immigrant neighborhood. This credit is helping most kids across the country, but some families need help signing up. Let’s do our part in supporting kids and spreading the word about this historic opportunity! For more information, contact Phaidon Athanasopoulos at pathanasopoulo@bostonk12.org
Phishing Awareness Campaign Results (Hourigan) All Classes
From October 20-27, BPSTechnology conducted a Phishing Awareness Campaign, sending fake phishing emails to over 9,000 students across the city. This activity was conducted for teaching purposes only to highlight the importance of cybersecurity awareness. The number of students who opened the email, as well as those who clicked on the included link, were recorded, and accessible through the link below.
If students clicked on the link included in the email, they were taken to a site with educational information about phishing, its risks, and how to avoid it. All emails were sent by BPSTechnology and no personal identifiable information was collected during the campaign.
sites.google.com/bostonpublicschools.org/2021cybersecuritymonthbps/awareness-campaign
It’s Time to be Photographed for Your Senior Portrait! (Craven) Class I
As your official school photographer, Chestnut Hill Studios is pleased to offer you the opportunity to schedule an appointment at a reduced cost to be photographed for your senior portrait on site at Boston Latin School. Please call the studio @ 508-336-4777, Monday-Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm to book an appointment. Dates currently available for our first round are December 20, 21, and 22 from 2:30-8:00 P.M. each day. Appointments are issued on a first call basis. The photographer’s time will be reserved for you, and will require a pre-payment of a $40.00 sitting fee when you schedule your appointment. The studio accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. This is a reduced sitting fee again this year made possible through the cooperation of the administration and the studio.
It is important that you arrive on time for your appointment or it can not be guaranteed that the studio will be able to fit you in to be photographed that day. You may be asked to reschedule, and you will be charged a $40.00 rescheduling fee. Should you elect not to schedule to be photographed during the times that the studio is on site at Boston Latin School, and if you wish your portrait to be included in the yearbook, you will be required to travel to the studio in Seekonk to be photographed for your portrait. Please visit the Chestnut Hill Studios website. I will periodically receive a list of students who have not booked an appointment with hope that our goal to have every member of the class represented in the yearbook is fulfilled. Booking your appointment ensures that your professional, retouched portrait is included in the yearbook. Please do not wait until the last minute to schedule your appointments. Dates for an additional two rounds will be coming after the first of the new year. If you have any questions, you may email me acraven@bostonpublicschools.org.
Thursday, November 4, 2021 Day W4
BLSTV Digs Its Own Grave (Kearns) All Classes
When does Halloween last longer than than your candy stash? When the BLSTV Halloween special drops three days after the 31st. Get your Ghoul on Wednesday at 8:00 AM when the link goes live… if you dare.
In Observance of Diwali, November 4 (No Test Day and W Day) (Skerritt) All Classes
Thursday, November 4 marks the first day of five days commemorating Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Diwali is a significant holiday celebrated in many parts of India by people of different faiths including Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, Muslims and some Buddhists. Diwali’s name is derived from the row of clay lamps that celebrants light outside their homes symbolizing the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness. We wish our families who observe Diwali, a joyous festival, full of light and promise.
Make an Impact During Lunch: Become a Zone Captain (Hamilton) Class VI, V
BLS Recycling Committee is looking for middle school Zone Captains to guide their peers in understanding how to sort trays, recyclables, and food waste during lunch. They will be stationed at recycling bins in the Upper Gym during the last 10 minutes of the lunch period and will receive 20 minutes of community service each day. As a Zone Captain, you will be able to complete your 50 indoor volunteer hour requirement in a school year and avoid the lunchtime.
We are only accepting middle school students this time. If you’re interested, please fill out this form by Friday, November 5th 11:59 PM. There are 12 slots, first come, first serve.
End of Term Testing Schedule Starts on Monday, November 1 (Skerritt) All Classes
In anticipation of the end of the Term I on Friday, November 12, we want to provide you with the testing schedule beginning Monday:
A: 11/1, 11/5 -English, Classics, PE/Health
B: 11/2, 11/8 – Math, History, Art/Music
C: 11/3, 11/12 – Science, Modern Language
Please also note that Diwali is observed on Thursday, November 4 and as such will not be a testing day. Accordingly, we will shift the W Day schedule from Wednesday, November 3 to Thursday, November 4.
Wednesday, November 3, 2021 Day 3
Winter Sports Registration/ Clearance (Owens) All Classes
Registration for all Winter Sports (Basketball, Fencing, Hockey, Indoor Track, Boys Swim, Winter Cheer, Wrestling) will open on Thursday, October 21. All candidates for a Winter sport must be pre-registered to be eligible to try out.
In addition, all student-athletes must also obtain an in-person clearance form from a BLS nurse. Virtual visits are no longer allowed. Nurses will begin the clearance process on October 25 and continue until November 19. Students can go to the nurses’ office (no appointment needed) during studies, W Block, and student leadership. All athletes need an updated in-person physical exam from the last 13 months and signed updated asthma action plans and/or food allergies action plans from the past 12 months if applicable.
bls.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=203689&type=d&termREC_ID=&pREC_ID=405715
Opportunity to travel free to another part of the US as part of the American Exchange Project in summer 2022 (Freeman) Class I
What would happen if students from “blue” states spent a week staying with a family in a “red” state and vice versa? Would we be able to go beyond our “bubbles” and get beyond the polarization so present in our nation?
Would you like to participate next summer in the American Exchange Project, an all-travel expenses-paid opportunity to have this experience in another state and host someone who travels to Boston in late June or July as part of this program? Students can still work during the day and participate in the Boston portion but will need to be able to take a way to travel to another state and participate there.
If you have any questions, please see Ms. Freeman in 307 or e-mail her at jfreeman@bostonpublicschools.org
If you are interested in getting more detail about this opportunity, please plan on joining a Zoom session on Thursday, November 4 at 9:12 am (at the start of W block). In order to receive the Zoom link, please complete this form.
Tuesday, November 2, 2021 Day 2
Results from 1st Public Declamation (Callum & Harari) All Classes
Thanks to the 12 participants who made our first Public Declamation of the 2021-22 academic year such a success. It was wonderful to be back in the auditorium and hear such inspirational pieces fill the air once again! Congratulations to our top performers:
First Place: Ailin Sha ~ Class IV
Second Place: Alex Chou ~ Class I
Third Place: Mirabelle Berman Reinhardt ~ Class II
Third Place: Selina Tang ~ Class II
Calling all book lovers (Oakes) All Classes
Have you been a reading slump lately? Can’t find the right title to read? Then the Strictly Fantasy Book Club is perfect for you. We read a wide variety of authors and genres including Kiera Cass, Leigh Bardugo, Rick Riordan, Colleen Hoover, and Cassandra Clare. Join us in heated discussions and fun activities regarding the books we will be reading this year.
First meeting after school on Tuesday,11/2, in room 211.
Sign up here: forms.gle/S8Q9zg3pbUEbL8pR6