Free BPS Athletics, in Conjunction with Mass General Brighams PreParticipation Physical Exam Event:

May 17th, 2025 8am-1pm

75 Malcolm X Blvd Boston, MA. (Madison Park Gymnasium)

A physical exam is required for all athletes to participate in athletics at Boston Public Schools. Although this event does not replace the annual physical a student athlete gets from their physician, this event offers BPS student athletes the opportunity to be cleared for the ENTIRE SCHOOL YEAR as well as complete their required consent paperwork. BPS student athletes will have the opportunity to have access to some of the top medical providers in Massachusetts as well as food and prizes! Please click the link below to access flyers with more detailed information and a QR code.

drive.google.com/drive/folders/14ScPsLQc-doXO1YXegZZljKcHWgG1eSy?usp=drive_link

As part of the Massachusetts 250 initiative, all K-12 public school students in Massachusetts are invited to submit a piece of creative work that tells the story of the most important revolutionary in Massachusetts history from their perspective. Students are invited to use their talents and conduct research to create a project about their chosen revolutionary. Students can submit their entry on this website between now and June 30, 2025.

Executive Office of Education

Do you love to bake and want to show off your skills? Harness your inner Great British Baking Show contestant and sign up to participate in this year’s bake off to compete for a $50 Visa gift card!

You can work by yourself or in a team of up to three people. There is no restriction on what kind of dessert you submit. You must fill out this form by Friday, March 28th to be eligible!

This free event will take place on Wednesday, April 2nd, after school in the cafeteria, so make sure your treat is ready by then.

forms.gle/rAejpbKc8n9a6t429

Need community service hours? Join NoVasta at the Jamaica Plain First Baptist Church’s community meal program this Saturday at noon! We will be helping prepare and give out food to those in need🌎

For more information, email novastagreaterboston@gmail.com, asun3@bostonk12.org, shennessy@bostonk12.org

Did you know that music can be a powerful tool? Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, sad, or just need a break, turning to your favorite songs can make a big difference. It’s not just about listening for fun; it’s a tool that can actually help you manage tough emotions.

Here’s how: Mood Boost: Listening to upbeat tunes can lift your spirits when you’re feeling low. It’s like a mini escape that helps you recharge.

Stress Relief: Slow, soothing music can lower your heart rate and help you relax when you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed.

Processing Emotions: Sometimes, you might have feelings you don’t know how to express. Music gives you a safe space to process those emotions—whether through the lyrics or just the melody.

Distraction: If you’re caught in a negative thought loop, music can provide a healthy distraction and give your mind a break.

Focus and Calm: When things are too noisy or stressful, instrumental music (like lo-fi or classical) can help you relax and refocus, especially when you’re studying or working on a project.

The Deitch Leadership Institute will partner with Junior Achievement (JA) to offer an educational, interactive program introducing students to the stock market. Mr. Levesque will teach five workshops on stock fundamentals (buying, selling, IPOs, dividends, risk/return), Students will build an online investment portfolio simulating the market and compete for the largest return on investment. Qualifying teams will advance to the JA Stock Market Challenge on May 15 hosted by Ernst & Young in downtown Boston. Classes will meet after school on Mondays starting March 31. Class I-IV. Email jlevesque@bostonpublicschools.org with questions.

Sign up HERE.

forms.gle/1jtGKuvwJNNRLfcXA

It’s time for the ELITE EIGHT! 🏀📚🏆

Second round voting of the March Madness book bracket is now open. Be sure to stop by the Keefe Library to cast your vote and make sure your favorite book wins!

Or, vote now with our Google Form.

docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeoA0GBhUZ3Y-t0wB-UEetlpfOPGTXqFY6eTtwchA_O7fTHrQ/viewform?usp=header

Mirora is a brand new STEM database for Boston Latin School, hosting a range of clubs and opportunities for students to access. If you want to learn out more about BLS Science clubs, (who to contact, when the club meets, etc) without feeling the need to commit, check out Mirora.org! We also post organizations from outside of BLS who are running STEM competitions, camps, publications and internships.

Mirora.org

Now that the weather is getting warmer, it’s time for spring cleaning. We are running a clothing drive for Second Chances, an organization that provides clothing to homeless and lower-income families. We are collecting clothing (including outerwear), footwear, and accessories, which can be donated at our box in front of the main office. Everyone who donates can receive an hour of community service by sending a picture of themselves donating to blsfunraisers@gmail.com. Feel free to email us with any questions, thank you!

Calling one but up to 24 students to join myself, Ms. Moguel, Mr. Finnigan, and Ms. Fernandez on a whirlwind adventure to Italy and Sicily in February 2026. Students who are currently enrolled in a CLASSICS ELECTIVE (Myth Tradition, Latin AP, Prose*) and/or ITALIAN 2+ are invited to fill out the interest form for more information! Highlights include: Rome, Herculaneum, Pompeii, Naples Archaeological Museum (glare at Mt. Vesuvius), Taormina, and the Villa Romana del Casale! Questions? Email Ms. Foley (cfoley@bostonpublicschools.org) [Students who enroll in a classics elective NEXT school year will have an opportunity to apply to travel too!]

docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeHB4Q6wwgi53ql-EDHTMCohRS9cEtJi8v1fQa21LXKNcigJQ/viewform

“COMMUNITY SERVICE HOUR OPPORTUNITY🌎 Get one hour for donating any non-perishable goods to NoVasta’s spring food drive. Donation boxes are located near the main office and the back door of the dining hall.

All items will be going towards the Jamaica Plain First Baptist Church’s community meal program. For additional community service hours, students can volunteer at the meals.

For more information, email novastagreaterboston@gmail.com, asun3@bostonk12.org, shennessy@bostonk12.org”

There is a trip planned to go to Kenya in February of 2026. There are 14 student spots. The trip will focus on wildlife, ecology, and culture. We plan to visit an elephant orphanage, the giraffe center, do  game drives in Tsavo National Park, learn about the Maasai tribe, practice our Kiswahili, visit Mombas, and much, much more! To be eligible, you must be in good academic standing, demonstrate good attendance, and have good conduct. You must be 16 and a rising junior or senior.

Financial aid is available for this trip through the Clough Center, and the projected cost is $3700 for 9 days.

forms.gle/usMQkDA7FeLeJrDu9

GSA SY 2025–26 officer applications are out! We are currently recruiting for all positions (President, Vice President, Webmaster, Internal Liaison, External Liaison, Media Manager, and Middle School Liaison). All classes (besides seniors, of course) are encouraged to apply, and no experience is necessary!

If interested, please complete the application form by Friday, 04/04 at 11:59 pm. Details and officer descriptions can be found here. Very brief interviews will be conducted from 04/10–17.

Please refer any and all questions to bostonlatinschool.gsa@gmail.com or amura@bostonk12.org.

docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfBHNYGcdB5OmNSviNqYqXiNCufiQJQIRXvsHCnFlMGCUuDrQ/viewform

NHS decision letters were delivered to junior homerooms today (Friday, 3/21). Students who did not receive their letters should check with their HR teacher. All applicants are reminded to read their decision letters carefully, as they contain important information regarding next steps for accepted students and reasons for non-selection with recommendations for future application rounds for those not accepted. The spring round of applications for both Classes I & II will be released in the coming weeks upon the conclusion of Term 3.

Join BLS UNICEF in celebrating Women’s History Month by creating care packages for the women at the Rosie’s Place emergency shelter. BLS community members are encouraged to drop off toiletries in front of the main office until April 11. Please refer here for donation parameters. Participants can log 1 hour of community service for donation and 1 hour to help assemble care packages on 4/11 in room 131. Happy Women’s History!

Class I students should have their community service hours up to date and entered on Innerview by April 30. Students MUST have at least 100 confirmed hours as a graduation requirement. Students with 250 confirmed hours will earn the Comunity Service Commendation and will be eligible to wear the Green Cord at graduation. Cords will be distributed with graduation materials prior to June 9.

The Keefe Library will close at 2:15 pm on Fri. 3/21 for the faculty talent show. Come see our act!

The annual Faculty Talent Show is this Friday from 2:30-4:00pm in the Auditorium! Come see your favorite faculty members like you’ve never seen them before! Our amazing educators are ready to dazzle and entertain. Don’t miss out on an afternoon of fun and unforgettable performances! Spread the word and bring your friends!

Tickets are $5 in advanced and $7 at the door and benefit the junior and senior proms. Tickets will be sold at lunch this week.

What you eat impacts how you feel, think, and learn! This week, focus on nourishing your body with balanced meals and snacks. Eating well helps:

🍏 Boost energy – Healthy foods keep you focused and alert.

💡 Improve mood – Nutrient-rich meals help regulate emotions.

💪 Support well-being – A balanced diet strengthens your body and mind.

🔹 Breakfast jumpstarts your brain and sets a positive tone for the day.

🔹 Lunch refuels your energy so you can stay focused and engaged.

Try eating mindfully—slow down, enjoy your food, and listen to your body’s signals.

16 BOOKS ENTER. 🏀

ONLY 1 CAN WIN. 🏆

The Keefe Library is running a book bracket tournament for popular young adult novels. Stop by to see the bracket and display, and vote for your favorites! Or, vote now with our Google Form.

docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFAYIwQyaXBYO6Cy8GzQyNYHVEi6WuMQqB_aN_w_y8cB_-qQ/viewform?usp=header

Over the course of the 2024–2025 school year, students have been working diligently on their independent science research. We would like to thank the BLSA for funding the research, the Friends of Mathematics and Science for providing virtual mentoring to our students, and Mr. Balicki, Ms. Bateman, Ms. Messemer, and Ms. Castellanos Ellsworth for mentoring the students during W-block. We would like to thank Ms. Jacobson Peregrino, Mr. Tucker, and Mr. Tobin for supporting ALL of our BLS seventh grade students with their independent science research projects. On March 8, BLS students competed at the Boston Citywide STEM Fair at Roxbury Community College. The award winners can be found HERE.

We will report back with the results from the High School State Science and Engineering Fair that will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025 at Gillette Stadium, Putnam Club in Foxborough And the Middle School State Science and Engineering Fair held on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Clark University in Worcester.

drive.google.com/file/d/1OF6_34cUuzp6UDXbPw8IAcUxXHMf4muP/view?usp=sharing

BLS families are invited to a special workshop on early post-secondary planning with Ms. Megan Clougherty, Program Director for Guidance, on Tuesday, March 25, at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. In advance of the meeting, please send your questions or information you would like covered to SPC co-chairs Mr. David Daniel (ddnok21@gmail.com) and/or Mr. Eric Huang (lhuang100@gmail.com). We hope to see you there!

Zoom link: k-12-bostonpublicschools.zoom.us/j/87286089297

Don’t miss out! The yearbook is a time capsule of memories you can keep forever! To purchase a Class of 2025 yearbook, please bring $100 cash or a $100 check to Mx Amico in room 214. Payments must be given to Mx Amico directly- do not leave money on my desk! For checks, please make them payable to Boston Latin School – Yearbook. Do not delay!

Join a cool group of student leaders in helping connect more students with service organizations for meaningful volunteer opportunities!! We are looking for dedicated & hard-working candidates who are willing to show up and put in the effort. Prior experience is NOT necessary. Available roles include External Liaison, Internal Liaison, Internal Activities Coordinator, Media Manager, Treasurer, and Webmaster. Classes IV, III, II in particular are encouraged to apply through the Google form.

docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf8qZ9460aTqC7TSBmQ-lnUdXxGaUjS5ygDvnMAvY2rawWX2A/viewform?usp=header

The 2025 Ghana trip reunion and debrief are scheduled for Wednesday, March 19, from 4 to 5 PM in the Seevak Room. The students and chaperones who visited Ghana last month will share their pictures and videos, tell stories, and answer questions about their amazing 10-day trip over February break. Come hear what they have to say about their international travel experience and learn more about the upcoming trip to South Africa in 2026.

Come audition for this year’s musical, Mamma Mia! A show about a soon-to-be bride who wants her father to walk her down the aisle at her wedding- only to find out that she has three possible fathers!

Auditions are on March 18th and March 19th after school in the Black Box. The sign-up sheet, along with monologue and music materials, are located on the bulletin board across from the Black Box. All are encouraged to sign up and audition! Please email Rowyn Haynes (rhaynes2@bostonk12.org) and/or Penelope Duff-Wender (pduffwender@bostonk12.org) if you have any questions.

Please remember to bring your Chromebook to school every day. We do not have the resources to support a loaner Chromebook program for 2400 students.

Summer jobs for Boston youth are open on the FutureBos Website. You can filter by neighborhood, interest, age, and other selections to find a summer position. If you find an opportunity that you would like to pursue, read through the Step-by-step guide on the same website (at the bottom) for the next steps. If you have any questions or need help, please see your counselor!

www.boston.gov/departments/youth-employment-and-opportunity/youth-jobs

Thinking of a summer internship? Apply with us at the PIC! This a great opportunity to both gain professional experience for your resume and network within the city of Boston for your future! Boston high school students are hired each summer to work in employer-paid jobs or internships at more than 200 private sector companies and institutions in Boston’s top industries, including health care, financial services, life sciences, technology, and architecture.

The first step in finding a summer job is to complete the PIC application

Reminder: You must be available all summer; these jobs are a full-time commitment. Meaning, M- F, 9 am-5 pm, generally. Most internships will start July 7th and go until the third week of August.

You must also be authorized to work in the United States. If you have any questions regarding this, please come see me!

application.bostonpic.org/Account

BLS Mexico has one spot available for our April trip. Complete this application if you are interested in receiving more information.

docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe3-fSTrjX-LNjM1pqTP5Ije2NduCafBSH-ZJKafJBQHGpJjQ/viewform

Play Ultimate! Boston high school and middle school teams will be playing this spring, organized by the Boston Ultimate Disc Alliance (BUDA). No experience is required! Ultimate is a self-officiated team sport with a lot of action. Experienced coaches teach the skills and the rules. Middle school teams will play against other towns, while the high school team plays in the high school league and the state championship tournament in June.

For more information, go to www.buda.org/en_us/e/boston-grades-312-ultimate-spring-2025

drive.google.com/file/d/1ENcPhg4ToMmsUdZ4IQaVPps8_aUR44XC/view?usp=sharing

Please note that effective Monday, March 17, the lunch schedule rotates so that those students who have had first lunch most recently will head to second lunch, those with second lunch will have third lunch, and students who have had third lunch will go to first lunch:

• First Lunch: Humanities, Modern Language, Science, Senior Seminar
• Second Lunch: Classics, History, Art/Music
• Third Lunch: Math, English

We want to remind young people of the importance of clearing tables completely after lunch.

Interested in a travel and learning program in Japan this summer? The LEX Language Project has a program that combines urban and rural experiences. More info here.

drive.google.com/file/d/1RmUtRgVfuOLW2a_LSFwyg_1GGOBisYik/view?usp=sharing

The BLS Mock Trial Team and Coach Gerald Howland are on quite a run. Congratulations to the team of Michelle Chen and Emily Yu, who won an international moot court competition over the weekend where thirty-two teams from the United States and Shanghai participated. This is a moot court first for Boston Latin School.

Congratulations to the team of Bridget Blair and Jolie Nguyen and the team of Leo Margalit and Meilin Sha, who won their Saturday rounds and advanced to the playoff rounds on Sunday.

Three BLS competitors made the top ten list for the best individual public speakers in the tournament. Seniors Emily Yu (#2), Michelle Chen (#5), and freshman Meilin Sha (#9)

Congratulations also to Bridget Blair who won a top ten speaker award at the Toronto International Moot Court competition last weekend.

Sticker Sale Happening Now – Don’t Miss Out!

Hey everyone! We’re raising funds for Junior Prom by selling some awesome stickers! They’re perfect for decorating your laptop, notebooks, folders, and more. Grab yours and show your support. hope you love them! You can fill out the form below to place your order! The order form will close on Monday, 3/17, and pick-ups will happen during W-block on Wednesday, 3/19.

forms.gle/SLkejvk8LgijmUvV6

Looking for something to do? BLS is hosting the Massachusetts Speech and Debate League tournament at Boston Latin School on Saturday, March 29. As a volunteer, you’ll be an integral part of the event, contributing to its smooth operation, from assisting with registrations and concessions to working the auditorium and presenting awards. Volunteering Hours will be given, and catered food will be available throughout the day for all volunteers and staff. If interested, please sign up here. Only sign up if you’re sure you can make it; all signups are due by March 28.

docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1M3l8q9EIRoFFStcAZRM4UEV_Nvclz_VsBwWUzm4AgAY/edit?gid=1057009953#gid=1057009953

BLS A.S.I.A. is on the lookout for a student to create this year’s Asian Night booklet cover, and you will be PAID! If you are interested in applying, please send a portfolio to us at blsasiaclub@gmail.com that includes a maximum of 4 pieces (they can be in any medium). Experience with digital art is preferred, but please feel free to submit any work that best represents your skills! If you would like inspiration, please check out our Asian Night booklets from previous years: drive.google.com/drive/folders/17-lTZn-r2hMz4Hi3kEyOTaeCp6a8V8bT?usp=sharing

Please submit your portfolio to blsasiaclub@gmail.com and title your subject as “[Last name, First name] – Asian Night 2025 Booklet Submission”. We’re accepting submissions until Tuesday, March 18th. If you have any questions, please email us. We look forward to everybody’s submissions!

drive.google.com/drive/folders/17-lTZn-r2hMz4Hi3kEyOTaeCp6a8V8bT?usp=sharing

The Student Council will host a Dodgeball Tournament between Class I and II students on Friday, March 14, 2:30 to 3:30, in the Upper Gym. All students are welcome. Mr. Gallagher and Mr. Osowiecki will referee. The winning team will raise a trophy and enjoy bragging rights for a year. All money raised will be split evenly between the two classes as a fundraiser. Tickets are $3 before (lunch blocks) and $5 at the door.

Feeling extra worn out this month? It’s normal to feel tired, especially as the school year drags on. Try this: move your body for a quick energy boost! It doesn’t have to be a full workout—just a short walk, some stretches, or even dancing to your favorite song can help shake off that fatigue. Physical activity releases endorphins, which help lift your mood and increase your energy levels. Even just 5-10 minutes can make a big difference and help you feel more focused and refreshed. Remember, taking care of your body helps you power through those tired moments!

Want to see your math or science teachers get π-ed in the face? If so, join us on Friday, March 14th, at 2:30 pm in the cafeteria and back lawn! For $1, cast a vote for your teacher of choice. For $2, buy an event ticket that will get you a slice of pie on the day of! You can make purchases in 318 during W Block on March 12th or from Catapulta officers at any time until the end of the day on 3/12. And, psst…winner of the π recitation contest gets to pie the teacher.

Email catapultasciencebls@gmail.com with any questions.

Belle of the Ball, in partnership with Anton’s Cleaners, cleans and distributes prom dresses and provides related accessories at no charge to high school juniors and seniors who would otherwise not have the opportunity to attend their school’s prom.

If you are interested in learning more, PLEASE REACH OUT TO YOUR SCHOOL COUNSELOR to inquire about this opportunity. DEADLINE: Friday, March 14th.

Here’s a video description of the program:

More information can be found here: antons.com/belle/

drive.google.com/file/d/1LzAW71FUhtIK4CbdMpWsk4qv0nWTUY_o/view?usp=sharing

The Register, BLS’s arts and literature magazine, is seeking submissions from students in all grades. Contribute your work through the portal on SIS by March 14th.

See one of our two encore performances of Wojtek: The Happy Warrior on Friday, March 14, at 3 pm and 7 pm. This will be your last chance to see this fantastic show. In the Black Box Theater:

$3 for students

$8 for adults

Advance tickets available at our.show/wojtek2

The CIAA summer program in Ireland is holding an information meeting on Thursday, March 13. More information can be found here.

drive.google.com/file/d/15eyA4Jjr5C0grY3COQZmpYribCAYhcX5/view?usp=sharing

Hi! My name is Favour Ndah. Please help me with my capstone project by filling out this one-question form! Thank you in advance!

docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScGao97TNSYF9SQu3rl1o2UEhQ-Qlv1ZTH9d07EPXoG8miJ2A/viewform?usp=header

BLS Marine Biology Club is a club that aims to provide a hands-on learning experience for BLS students. Our mission is to educate students of BLS on marine biology and facilitate the growth of their interests. We would educate students through academic programs, partnerships with the New England Aquarium, guest lectures, internships, fellowships, and partnerships with Boston colleges and universities. I

nterested? Sign-up for the BLS Marine Biology Club using this link: docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSej8eV17Qj_65sW1uIbMza2N–alY4YFgnCMyd8EjaG4irv1A/viewform?usp=header

Students must vacate the dining hall Monday, March 10th through Friday, March 14th (except for Wednesday, March 12th) at 7:25 for preparation for the National Latin Exam administration.

Students who have yet to finish their breakfast will be asked to move to the senior section, and then head to homeroom.

Administration of the National Latin Exam will occur during R1 in the dining hall Monday, March 10th through Friday, March 14th. Students who have been chosen to take the exam should present the teacher whose class they will miss with a pass DAYS IN ADVANCE.

The schedule is as follows:

• Monday, March 10th – Class VI and Poetry Students
• Tuesday, March 11th – Class V, 9B, and AP Students
• Thursday, March 13th – Class IV and 10B Students
• Friday, March 14th – Class III Students

Over the weekend of March 1, 37 students from BLS competed in the DECA State competition. Representing districts across Massachusetts, 3,600 students gathered at the Boston Convention Center to sit exams, respond to business case studies, and make professional presentations. The following BLS students qualified for the DECA National competition in April in Orlando, Florida: Sophia Fortuin (III), Emily Polcaro (I), Andrew Lai (I), Steven Miall (I), and Roan Wilcox (I). Congratulations, and well done.

America’s Field Trip Contest – Submissions due April 16th America’s Field Trip is a nationwide contest from America250 that invites students in grades 3–12 to be part of America’s 250th anniversary by sharing their perspectives on what America means to them with the opportunity to earn an unforgettable “field trip” experience at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks. Submissions will be accepted until Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. ET. Check out the America250 website for educator resources, including thought starters, standards-aligned lesson plans, ready-to-use activities, and submissions from previous winners. Don’t let your students miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore America’s treasures!

America’s Field Trip

PAWse Space is a place where students can go during their study hall to take a pause, de-stress, and participate in activities related to positivity and wellness. For March, we will be doing origami and activities to welcome spring!

Students must sign up in advance and will receive a pass and directions through their email. Sign-ups are available for W-Block or study halls ONLY, and you must stay for the full period.

If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Wang (wwang@bostonpublicschools.org).

docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScEEvjEOrbp6lwjOJj7-lqG_6y6goEmzMWlh5TdS20i34fXfw/viewform?usp=dialog

Join a cool group of student leaders in helping connect more students with service organizations for meaningful volunteer opportunities!! We are looking for dedicated & hard working candidates who are willing to show up and put in the effort. Prior experience is NOT necessary. Available roles include External Liaison, Internal Liaison, Internal Activities Coordinator, Media Manager, Treasurer, and Webmaster. Classes IV, III, II in particular are encouraged to apply.

BLS, in collaboration with the Celebrity Series of Boston and the Japan Society of Boston, is proud to present a special performance by KODO, the world-renowned taiko drumming ensemble, on Saturday, March 8, at 7 p.m. in the auditorium.

Tickets are free but must be reserved in advance here. www.japansocietyboston.org/events/lecture-and-demonstration-kodo

Third Term Progress Reports will be issued on Friday, March 7, 2025.

All athletic lockers must be cleared by Friday March 7 unless you are still competing in your sport. Locker numbers for those athletes have been provided to the Athletic Department.

Spring athletes are not permitted to use lockers until the start of the spring season.

Locks will be cut and items will be donated by Tuesday March 10.

Open to all grades! Tryouts will be held on Thursday, March 13th in the auditorium between 2:30-4:00pm. You may declaim a passage or abridged version of a poem, speech, book, essay, or play. The duration of the text may not exceed 2 minutes and 30 seconds. If interested and for more information, please complete this GOOGLE FORM. Submissions are due on Thursday, March 7th at 11:59pm. The assembly is scheduled for Thursday, March 27th, and the audience will be Class III.

forms.gle/cGSMo1jkzWwMboqv6 , drive.google.com/file/d/1LJ_4qJdgfwroymfuxBCCuGq9ZaQ-eTRx/view?usp=sharing

Save the date for the annual Faculty Talent Show! The show is on Friday March 21st from 2:30-4:00pm in the Auditorium.

Tickets are $5 in advanced and $7 at the door and benefit the junior and senior proms. Tickets will be sold at lunch during the week of the 17th or from a senior class officer.

During the month of March, BLS BLACK (Black Leaders Aspiring for Change and Knowledge) will celebrate the incredible contributions of women to our society, our communities, and our personal lives. To mark this special occasion, we have invited 2 distinguished women of color from diverse backgrounds in the Arts and STEM/business sectors. These remarkable women will share their inspiring journeys and the paths that led them to their current roles.

The first event is an Arts Session with Amanda Shea, a renowned spoken word artist, educator, and publicist and will take place on Thursday, March 6 from 2:40 PM – 3:30 PM in Room 114. The second event is a STEM/Business Session with Enna Jimenez, a seasoned expert in Leadership, Technology, and Transformation Management on Thursday, March 13 from 2:40 PM – 3:30 PM in Room 114.

There will be food and drinks provided for both events.

It’s easy to feel like you have to say “yes” to everything—whether it’s hanging out with friends, extra school activities, or helping others. But setting healthy boundaries is key to maintaining your mental and emotional well-being. This week, practice saying “no” when you feel overwhelmed or need time to recharge. It’s okay to prioritize your own needs, and doing so will help you stay balanced and focused.

Remember: Setting boundaries isn’t selfish; it’s a way to take care of yourself so you can show up as your best self!

Please be reminded that course selection forms are due no later than Thursday, March 6, 2025. Students in Classes IV, III, and II can find their course selection google form link in their grade-level toolkit posted on SIS.

The Office of Youth Employment and Opportunity (YEO) is hosting a Jobs and Resource Fair on Saturday, March 29, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Reggie Lewis Track and Field Center. The fair will feature job placement opportunities, career development workshops, free food, raffles, giveaways, games, and more for youth and families. Learn more here.

www.eventbrite.com/e/city-of-boston-2025-youth-jobs-resource-fair-youth-registration-tickets-1076651135529?aff=oddtdtcreator&utm-source=cp&utm-term=listing&utm-campaign=social&utm-medium=discovery&utm-content=attendeeshare

Have you ever wondered how meditation affects not just your mind, but your body on a deep, biological level? During the next 8 weeks, you could explore the science behind meditation, how it influences your genes through epigenetics, and even how stress and trauma can be passed down through generations. Each session will wrap up with a short guided meditation to help you apply what you’ve learned and experience the benefits firsthand. No prior experience is needed—just curiosity and an open mind! Join us every Wednesday after school from 2:30 – 3:10 and discover how meditation can transform not only your well-being but possibly even your DNA. This seminar will be run by Daniela Shortell, a senior capstone student aspiring to discover the impact meditation has on trauma and share her knowledge with her peers. There will only be 12 spots open to students in grades 10, 11, and 12. Sessions begin on March 4th and run every Wednesday for the next 8 weeks. If you would like to attend, please fill out this form to be admitted or wait listed.

docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdzVjRxREkcFKpID984YO8zJpd4EpE5M1Pa9cW9ThdSFj6I_Q/viewform?usp=sharing

Ramadan Mubarak!

In consultation with the Boston Public Schools Office of Equity and our state guidance, we must support our students to observe their faith while doing our best to ensure they will not miss any instruction.

Beginning this February 28th we will have space available in the library for those who want to pray either during their assigned lunch time or immediately after school at 2:15. All students will be expected to be present in their classes so they do not miss any instruction time.

In addition, for students who will be fasting, starting February 28th, the library has been reserved for you as an alternative space to spend the lunch period for the duration of Ramadan. If you want to access that space, please fill out this form so we can take attendance and communicate with your family.

As always, please reach out to your guidance counselor with any questions or concerns. We wish a safe, happy, and generous Ramadan to all members of our community who observe the holiday.

docs.google.com/forms/d/1JLQVcAUi8jvzwu5eOFNLVdPwfocJ4QLiXapX0Lb5x5A/preview

All Muslim students are invited to attend Ramadan Iftar in Room 209 on Wednesday, March 5 at 2:30 PM. If you are interested by cannot attend, please see me in HR 209.

docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdncFSa4uuzbcSQtcykVvbB2EPCodICQiSUuy14yQUjxTlZag/viewform?usp=sharing

Check out the “News & Magazines” guide with new subscriptions to The Atlantic, The Nation, National Geographic, National Review, the New Republic, Financial Times, and more. We also have access to the archives to these magazines and some that no longer are published, such as Life, Jet, and Ebony.

libguides.bls.org/newsandmagazines

Are you interested in trivia? Have you competed in previous buzzer-based competitions such as Certamen, History Bowl, or the Mathcounts Countdown Round? Join BLS’s team for the Lexington Invitational Grand High School Tournament this Saturday, March 1, 2025. No experience needed! Categories include anything from history, literature, pop culture, and even current events! To sign up, fill out this quick google form: forms.gle/kEHNuB1oAp8AhKAn9.

If you have any questions, feel free to email them to bleung3@bostonk12.org or bxu@bostonk12.org!

BLS’s Gender-Sexuality Alliance will be hosting a community event on Wednesday, 03/05, during W-block! Held in the Seevak Room, it will provide a safe space for students to chill and debrief amidst all of the chaos going on around the country and world. Snacks, music, board games, Kahoot, and more will be provided. Bring your friends! All are welcome!!

When: Wednesday, 03/05 during W-block

Where: Seevak Room

We hope to see you there!

Fill out this form to get a pass!

docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf5VlezdgDQSzH7XCQbZU_xALEQwigSh5AZdQXUTFVjbDZbog/viewform?usp=header

The PIC application is officially open for summer 2025 internships! Please share your resume as a PDF -not a Google DOC. I look forward to reviewing all of your applications!

Please remember to register for the PIC preview days! They will be hosted on zoom from 4:00-5:30pm.

• Healthcare: Wed February 26th
• Finance: Thursday February 27th
• STEM: Wednesday March 5th
• Arts, Govt & Higher Ed: Thursday March 6th

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out, enjoy your February vacation!

application.bostonpic.org/Account

forms.office.com/Pages/DesignPageV2.aspx?subpage=design&token=7b81646fe21d4bb5bf26763879f98b4f&id=v6uOK80FtEeCFSL4i0HYtQ6TQmFXrmJBsRs6uOK-teJUQ05aQUxPOEJENldOMlFMS0g5MVVVNVVPRC4u

Congratulations to the BLS Big Band for receiving a Gold Medal at the Norwood Jazz Classic and the MAJE Cape Code Jazz Festival. Oustanding Musicianship Awards went to Cynthia Francis on Alto Sax, Justin Gao on Trombone, and Carina Szocik on Piano. Carina was also awarded the Outstanding Soloist Award for Division I. The band recently competed at the Mingus festival in NYC and Carina Szocik was awarded an outstanding soloist award and got to perform with the Mingus Big Band that evening. At the District festival, the Band received a perfect score from all three judges. They will be competing in the State Finals on March 22 in Norwood.

Spring Sports Meeting

Monday March 3, 2025 (DATE CHANGED FROM 2/27)

2:30 Auditorium

3:00 Team Meetings (Locations TBD)

This is a mandatory meeting for all student athletes interested in a spring sport at BLS. Students will attend a presentation by Athletic Director Owens in the Auditorium at 2:30 and meet with respective teams and coaches at 3pm

The Keefe Library will be closed after school on Monday March 3rd for annual librarian professional development.

In conjunction with the Boston Public Schools Office of Equity and with state guidance, we will continue to support our students to observe their faith while doing our best to ensure they will not miss any instruction.

Beginning this Monday, March 3, we will have space available in the library for those who want to pray either during their assigned lunch time or immediately after school at 2:15. All students will be expected to be present in their classes so they do not miss any instruction time.

In addition, for students who will be fasting, starting March 3, the library has been reserved for you as an alternative space to spend the lunch period for the duration of Ramadan.

As always, please reach out to your guidance counselor with any questions or concerns. We wish a safe, happy, and generous Ramadan to all members of our community who observe the holiday.

For my Capstone Project, I am researching the punk scene of New York City in the 1970s, and how the scene pushed the punk agenda, valuing authenticity and the freedom of creative expression. I am creating a seven-week curriculum for an out of school class that explores the visual and performing arts of the punk scene era of New York City in the 1970s.

This March, I invite BLS students to participate in a three-week trial run of the course. The course will take place in room 517 in the Art Wing during W-Block on March 5, 12, and 19. All grade levels are welcome to sign up! By attending, you will also be able to get community service hours for your participation! Please commit to all three of the W Block periods, for each lesson is tied to the next. Fill out the sign up form here: docs.google.com/document/d/1t-FRkOgKQgdckwMP58lKQ4V-wpmdw2jf9t9GIZhB6ks/edit?usp=sharing

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at ccox8@bostonk12.org