Dear Bedford METCO Families,
Thank You to Milly Arbaje-Thomas
We would like to take a moment to share some bittersweet news. Milly Arbaje-Thomas, the President & CEO of METCO Inc., is set to step down from her role on June 30. We, here in Bedford, would like to express our deepest gratitude for the incredible work she has done for the METCO Program. Her leadership and dedication have been instrumental in bringing us to where we are today. Milly will certainly be missed, and we wish her all the best in her future endeavors.
METCO Advocacy at the State House
This Thursday, the METCO Director, Superintendent, and educators from Bedford will join METCO staff from other communities as we continue to rally at the State House. Our goal is to advocate for continued funding for METCO and the vital services it provides to the students and families we serve. We are committed to ensuring that this important program remains supported and sustainable for years to come.
Bowling Day – A Family Fun Event!
Thanks to the Bedford PDC, we are excited to offer a fun opportunity for families to come together and enjoy a day of bowling at Urban Wild. A separate email will be sent with further details, and we encourage all families to sign up and take part in this exciting event. It’s sure to be a great way to connect with others and make memories.
A Huge Thank You to the JGMS Staff!
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the JGMS staff for organizing what was an amazing school dance/activity for our middle school students last Thursday. A special thank you goes to our coordinator, Mr. Brome, for his dedication and for staying to chaperone the students who stayed. We appreciate the effort put into making this a memorable and enjoyable event for everyone involved.
Elementary Bus Cleanliness
We’ve recently received calls and emails regarding the cleanliness of the Elementary bus, particularly the Lane afternoon bus. It has been reported that students are leaving food items such as chicken bones, plastic utensils, juice bottles, and other trash on the floor after eating. While we understand that bus rides can be long and students may get hungry, it’s important for them to clean up after themselves. If this continues, we may need to reconsider the option of allowing students to eat on the bus. We ask for your support in encouraging your child to keep the bus clean.
Women’s History Month: Spotlight on Women in Mathematics
As part of our celebration of Women’s History Month, we want to highlight a remarkable woman of color in the field of mathematics: Dr. Evelyn Boyd Granville. Dr. Granville was one of the first African American women to receive a Ph.D. in mathematics from Yale University. She worked on the development of computer programs that were used for NASA’s space missions and was a trailblazer in breaking barriers for women of color in STEM. Her contributions to the field of mathematics continue to inspire future generations of scholars and mathematicians.
Spring Sports Season
Spring sports season is upon us, and we want to wish all our student-athletes the very best as they begin tryouts. Whether it’s baseball, softball, track, or any other sport, we’re excited to see our students take the field and give it their all. We encourage everyone to get involved, stay active, and have fun!
Late Bus Schedule
As always, we’ve attached the late bus schedule for your reference. We continue to appreciate your ongoing support of the METCO Program and look forward to another week of growth, learning, and community.
Thank you for being part of our vibrant METCO family!
Sincerely,
The Bedford METCO Program Team
METCO Advocacy Day - March 20th
Registration & Light Breakfast Items from 9:15 to 10 am
Event from 10 am to 1 pm
Pizza at 12:30
Location: Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02123, 2nd Floor, Great Hall of Flags
METCO relies on state funding, requiring advocacy and approval from the state legislature. It is essential to advocate for this funding to both maintain and enhance the impact of METCO’s programs. Share your personal impact stories, express your needs and meet with legislators!
Bring student groups, share with community advocacy groups and Friends of METCO. School committee members are essential voices too!
We welcome you to join us. This is a great opportunity for students to learn about the legislative process, the Historic METCO program’s impact and meet with their legislators.
We have four legislative champions at the State legislature to ensure our funding year after year. We are so grateful for their support.
Transportation will be provided from METCO HQ for those who need it.
METCO HQ will be hosting preparation sessions to provide all participants with the information about day's agenda and messaging. Register for one of the following:
Visit the Advocacy Day web page!
Email, call, or write letters to your legislators to express your support of METCO
1:1 Mentors for Sophomores: Summer Search
METCO HQ and Summer Search Boston are working together to provide students and families with an information session via Zoom about the Summer Search Program Tuesday March 18th 2025 from 6-7 pm via Zoom for Sophomores.
Summer Search is a Boston-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering young people through transformative experiences and long-term mentorship. We are excited to share this opportunity with METCO students who are ready to challenge themselves, grow as leaders, and build a bright future.
In-person sessions take place at METCO HQ:
11 Roxbury Street, Boston, MA 02119
For more information, contact Karli Janssen at kjanssen@metcoinc.org
The Boston Fire Teen Academy
The Boston Fire Teen Academy will be happening this summer.
Youth between the ages of 14-18 with interests in public safety & wellness, leadership, and community service are encouraged to apply.
Eligibility:
To be eligible for employment with Success Link, all applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a full-time resident of the City of Boston
- Must turn 15 years old on or before 9/1/2025
- Cannot turn 19 years old on or before 9/1/2025
- Must be legally permitted to work in the US
Employment Dates: Early July - Late August
Monday - Thursday (25 hrs/week)
Paid Summer opportunity
Key Duties:
- Work in a team environment, learn job responsibilities/readiness and life skills
- Assist with setup and breakdown of Teen Academy location
- Actively participate in learning, discussions, and group activities
- Assist and work with Community Service initiative
- Participate in physical activities including daily physical training (PT) and sports-related, team building exercises
See attached Flyer with QR Code and more details.
METCO University
METCO University offers free extended education opportunities to the whole METCO community! This winter, choose from a variety of courses about being online safely and responsibly, presented by Tyler-Lee, Academic & Enrichment Coordinator.
Winter 2025 Classes
NOTE: Class dates have been adjusted from the previous email based on feedback.
Introduction to the Digital World
February 27, 2025 | 6 pm | Virtual
Learn about the evolution of the internet and social media, common platforms, and how they have transformed over time. How are children interacting with these platforms and what are ways you can monitor them? What is a digital footprint and how does it affect your child?
Identify the Dangers and Risks
March 27, 2025 | 6 pm | Virtual
Learn about pervasive internet risks; scams, phishing, and identify theft; cyberbullying and what that looks like when a child is faced with it.
The Tools, Strategies, and Solutions for Staying Safe Online
April 17, 2025 | 6 pm | Virtual
Learn about setting parental controls while maintaining healthy boundaries with your child. Pick up meaningful ways in which you can teach digital safety and responsibility at home.
Building a Healthy Digital Environment at Home
May 15, 2025 | 6 pm | Virtual
Learn how to ensure your child is maintaining healthy digital habits at home, with friends, and in school. Fostering healthy and open communication at home is also explained during this session.
For further details or if you have any questions, please contact Tyler-Lee St. Leger, Academic & Enrichment Coordinator, at tstleger@metcoinc.org
- March 18: Strings Vertical Concert (Grade 4 & 5 Strings) 7:00pm BHS or JGMS (TBD)
- March 19: Parent-Teacher Conferences 1:30-7:00pm
- March 20: Band Vertical Concert (Grade 5 Band) 7:00pm BHS or JGMS (TBD)
- March 21: Grade 4 Movie Day
- March 26: Parent-Teacher Conferences 1:30-4:00pm
- March 28: Grade 5 Movie Day
- March 31: Rising 6th grade parents - Middle School Math Parent/Caregiver Info Session 7:00-8:00pm @ JGMS, please RSVP.
- April 11: Sports Day - wear a shirt, hat, etc. from your favorite team!
- April 17: Grade 5 Talent Show Performance for Parents 6:00-8:00pm @ Lane
- April 21- April 25: No School - April Vacation Week
- May 3: BEST PTO Color Run 4:00pm @ JGMS Fields
- March 18: Strings Vertical Concert
- March 20: Band Vertical Concert
- March 22: High School Tenacity Challenge
- March 25 & March 26: Grade 10 ELA MCAS
- March 26: BHS Student Wellness Day
- April 12: Women of Science Competition @ JGMS
- April 21- April 25: No School - April Vacation Week
- May 3: BEST PTO Color Run 4:00pm @ JGMS Fields
- May 5: New England College Fair (IEPs & 504s) 6:00-8:00pm @ BHS
- May 10: Middle School Tenacity Challenge @ BHS
- May 16: Last Day of Classes for Seniors
- May 19 - May 22: Senior Exams
- May 20 & May 21: Grade 10 Math MCAS
- May 23: Senior Class Field Trip - Whale Watch 8:00am
- May 29: Senior Prom 5:30pm held at Danvers Yacht Club, meeting at BHS
- June 3: Graduation Rehearsal 8:00am @ BHS
- June 4 & June 5: Grade 9 Science MCAS
- June 5: Graduation 6:00pm @ Tsongas Center in Lowell, student arrival time will be determined and is before Graduation time.
- June 5: All Night Graduation Party 10:30pm @ BHS
- June 12 - June 18: Final Exams
- June 18: Last Day of School for Grades 9-11 (tentative, dependent on additional closures)
BEST PTO Color Run
Saturday, May 3rd | 4:00PM | JGMS Fields
Early Bird Registration | $15 | Through January 31st
Regular Registration | $20
Join BEST PTO for a fun, family-friendly event full of vibrant color, community, and energy! This year’s Color Run will be more affordable than ever to ensure more families can join the fun! While we’ve simplified some offerings, our goal remains the same: to bring joy to our community and raise funds for our schools. Register here: https://runsignup.com/bestptocolorrun2025
METCO Office: 781-275-1700 x4435
Akil Mondesir, METCO Director
Chauncey Williams, METCO Coordinator Davis & Lane
Chauncey_Williams@bedfordps.org
Jonathan Brome, METCO Coordinator JGMS
Davis Main Office# 781-275-6804
Lane Main Office# 781-275-7606
JGMS Main Office# 781-275-3201
BHS Main Office# 781-275-1700
Parents Diversity Council Board
pdcbedford@gmail.com
President - Kelly Korenak
Vice President - Stacy Chandler
Treasurer - Allison C. John
Secretary - Anne Caron
Davis Chair - OPEN
Lane Chair - Roopa Bhusnurmath
JGMS Chair - OPEN
BHS Chair - Heather Leavell, seeking co-chair from Hanscom or METCO
Fundraising Chair - Mark Mullins
- Lt. Eleazer Davis Elementary School - Scribbles - March 10, 2025
- Lt. Job Lane Elementary School - Lane Notes - Week of March 10, 2025
- John Glenn Middle School - Buccaneer News - Vol. #26 - 3/10/2025
- Bedford High School - The Bedford Buccaneer - March 17, 2025
- Assistant Superintendent's Update - February 2025
- Superintendent Update - March 14, 2025
- John Glenn Journal - Winter 2025
- The Lookout Newsletter - January 2025
METCO HQ & Boston University Future Leaders Program (High School Students)
The program will meet Tuesdays & Thursdays, March 18th to May 8th 2025 at METCO HQ (11 Roxbury St., Roxbury, MA 02119)
- Students will be paid $15 an hour for their time in the program, and will be paid to complete surveys and interviews
- Total compensation can be up to $599
- Students will learn about Civic Engagement & Mindfulness or College & Career Readiness.
- This internship is a part of a research study conducted by Boston University faculty that will require students to provide feedback via surveys and interviews.
- Unfortunately, if you participated in this program before, you cannot participate a second time.
Complete Interest Form to Learn More
In-person sessions take place at METCO HQ:
11 Roxbury Street, Boston, MA 02119For more information, contact Karli Janssen at kjanssen@metcoinc.org
METCO Advocacy Day - March 20th
Registration & Light Breakfast Items from 9:15 to 10 am
Event from 10 am to 1 pm
Pizza at 12:30
Location: Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02123, 2nd Floor, Great Hall of Flags
METCO relies on state funding, requiring advocacy and approval from the state legislature. It is essential to advocate for this funding to both maintain and enhance the impact of METCO’s programs. Share your personal impact stories, express your needs and meet with legislators!
Bring student groups, share with community advocacy groups and Friends of METCO. School committee members are essential voices too!
We welcome you to join us. This is a great opportunity for students to learn about the legislative process, the Historic METCO program’s impact and meet with their legislators.
We have four legislative champions at the State legislature to ensure our funding year after year. We are so grateful for their support.
Transportation will be provided from METCO HQ for those who need it.
Visit the Advocacy Day web page!
METCO University
METCO University offers free extended education opportunities to the whole METCO community! This winter, choose from a variety of courses about being online safely and responsibly, presented by Tyler-Lee, Academic & Enrichment Coordinator.
Winter 2025 Classes
NOTE: Class dates have been adjusted from the previous email based on feedback.
Introduction to the Digital World
February 27, 2025 | 6 pm | Virtual
Learn about the evolution of the internet and social media, common platforms, and how they have transformed over time. How are children interacting with these platforms and what are ways you can monitor them? What is a digital footprint and how does it affect your child?
Identify the Dangers and Risks
March 27, 2025 | 6 pm | Virtual
Learn about pervasive internet risks; scams, phishing, and identify theft; cyberbullying and what that looks like when a child is faced with it.
The Tools, Strategies, and Solutions for Staying Safe Online
April 17, 2025 | 6 pm | Virtual
Learn about setting parental controls while maintaining healthy boundaries with your child. Pick up meaningful ways in which you can teach digital safety and responsibility at home.
Building a Healthy Digital Environment at Home
May 15, 2025 | 6 pm | Virtual
Learn how to ensure your child is maintaining healthy digital habits at home, with friends, and in school. Fostering healthy and open communication at home is also explained during this session.
For further details or if you have any questions, please contact Tyler-Lee St. Leger, Academic & Enrichment Coordinator, at tstleger@metcoinc.org
METCO HEADQUARTERS PROGRAMMING & RESOURCES
New MassHousing Affordable Apartments
FREE RESOURCE│Database
MassHousing finances the construction and preservation of affordable rental housing throughout MA. Property Managers are responsible for the placement of tenants into available apartments at each development.
View Database HERE
Explore resources to meet your family’s basic needs.
Students are much more likely to succeed in school with stable access to basic needs. If you or anyone you know needs help meeting those needs, check out these Resources for Basic Needs.
Scholarship Database
METCO HQ has created a scholarship database for ALL students to use. Scholarships are broken down into categories to make it easier for students to navigate.
To view click HERE
College and Career Database
METCO HQ has created a College and Career Database for current high school students AND recent alumni including:
-College Access and Retention Programs
-Jobs and Internships
To view entire database click HERE
Considering HBCU’s Tip Sheet
You may have heard/read about HBCUs, but how do you know if this type of school is right for you? This tip sheet will provide a more comprehensive look into considering HBCUs
View Tip Sheet HERE
Soca Sundays
FREE EVENT │All Ages│ Sundays 1-3pm @ Community Art Center Cambridge, MA
Join for an afternoon of Soca! Dance, feel the Caribbean vibes, and bring the whole family—these classes are for everyone!
Learn More & Register HERE
Hate & Bias in K-12 Schools Resources
RESOURCES │ all ages
Governor Maura T. Healey and Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell released updated guidance to K-12 schools on addressing hate and bias incidents in line with legal obligations.
Learn More HERE
Bullying Prevention Resources
RESOURCES │ all ages
Includes general bullying prevention resources, cyberbullying and internet safety as well as articles, books and videos.
Learn More HERE
Watch Video HERE
The 19th Annual Israel Arbeiter Holocaust Essay Contest
Open to Students in Grades 6-12. Submissions Due April 4, 2025
Six Winners will receive an educational trip to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C.
Reflect on the lessons of the Holocaust and their relevance today. By exploring the history of Holocaust, we can understand how hatred, prejudice, and dehumanization can escalate into violence and how we all play a role in preventing history from repeating itself.
School Year Youth Job Applications Are Now Live!
The SuccessLink School Year Youth Job applications are now live! Boston youth and young adults ages 14 - 24 can apply for school year job opportunities on FutureBOS, the youth jobs catalog created to help young people find and secure jobs.
Click here to access futureBOS, the best place to go to find jobs that offer opportunities to grow, explore new experiences, and get paid.
Save the Date: Youth Jobs and Resource Fair!
The City of Boston Youth Jobs & Resource Fair will take place on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Complex! Each year, the City of Boston partners with hundreds of city agencies and community-based organizations across all Boston neighborhoods to provide meaningful employment opportunities for thousands of the city’s youth. The City of Boston Youth Jobs & Resource Fair equips Boston’s youth with unique job opportunities and essential workforce readiness skills. This free event offers young people the chance to connect directly with employers, access on-site application support, participate in free career development workshops, receive wrap-around youth services, and more!
Senior Deadlines
Cap & Gown Order Information
To order your cap and gown for graduation, click here.
May 23: Senior Class Field Trip: Whale Watch 8:00am, meet at BHS
May 29: Senior Prom, 5:30pm at Danversport Yacht Club, meet at BHS
June 3: Graduation Rehearsal 8:00am at BHS
June 5: Graduation 6:00pm at Tsongas Center in Lowell, student arrival will be earlier
June 5: All Night Graduation Party 10:30pm at BHS
Middle School Math Parent/Caregiver Information Session
Intended Audience: Rising 6th grade parents (Current 5th grade students). All are welcome. On Monday, March 31st, from 7:00-8:00 p.m. at JGMS math teachers, the math program administrator, the JGMS principal, and the Superintendent invite Lane School and JGMS parents and caregivers to a math information session. We will be presenting proposed changes to our math course structure for the 2025-2026 school year for 6th grade. These changes are part of Bedford’s strategic plan. This session is intended for parents and caregivers only. There will be a hands-on session and we ask, for our planning purposes, you RSVP. Thank you. Patrick Morrissey, Math Program Administrator, Grades 6-12 patrick_morrissey@bedfordps.org