Mayor Walsh column: Investing in our next generation

by Mayor Martin J. Walsh


In 2015, we launched BuildBPS, a 10-year educational and facilities master plan that reflects a $1 billion commitment to our students. This plan is a promise to our young people that their schools will be equipped with the facilities, tools, and curriculum they need to succeed in today’s world. We have said many times that making sure our students have the best learning facilities available to them is a priority, and today we’re taking the next step to fulfill that promise: a planning and engagement process for school expansions and re-configurations. 


The majority of Boston's public schools were constructed before World War II, and many lack modern educational spaces like music and technology classrooms. There are also several different grade configurations, meaning that many students change schools several times before graduating from high school. We want to simplify things for families by offering single-transition pathways. Families have also told us that they want to see more K-6 schools in their neighborhoods, and this next step in the plan provides an opportunity to meet that need as well. 


The Boston Public Schools (BPS) recently announced updates to the BuildBPS plan. These include: modernizing school facilities; adopting two preferred grade configuration models of K-6/7-12 and K-8/9-12; increasing access to classroom seats in neighborhoods with the most need; addressing declining enrollment and sustainability in the few remaining middle schools serving grades 6-8; and facilitating greater equity of program placement to meet the needs of students with disabilities, English learners, and more.


Ensuring smooth transitions for students and families is a top priority and critical to expanding high-quality school options in all neighborhoods across our city. After years of analyzing school enrollment patterns and facility layouts and capacity, we are now asking for the community to get involved in the process by providing feedback to the following updates: 


A new 7-12 school at the site of the current McCormack Middle School on Columbia Point in Dorchester, which will combine programming with the Boston Community Leadership Academy (BCLA) in Hyde Park. This new, fully-renovated school will open in the fall of 2022 and will keep specialized programs from both schools, including those for English learners and students with disabilities. 

Expanding 17 elementary schools from grades K-5 to K-6, which includes five schools in South Boston and Dorchester in September 2020 (Dever, Perkins, Tynan, Everett, Clap); six schools citywide in September 2020; and six East Boston schools in September 2021.

Expanding middle-grade seat capacity in East Boston through possible expansion at East Boston High School while maintaining options at the Umana and McKay K-8 schools.

Purchasing property at 189 Paris Street in East Boston to construct a new school building to serve elementary grades, and at 249 Harrison Avenue in Chinatown for a new Josiah Quincy Upper School. 

Continuing to seek property near the Dorchester-Mattapan line to construct a new school building to address the need for elementary seats in the area.

Beginning a planning and engagement process leading to the reconfiguration of the Edwards Middle School in Charlestown, phasing out the grade 6-8 middle school in June 2021, and reconfiguring the school to expand pre-K and elementary grade capacity.

Continuing a planning and engagement process for schools in Allston-Brighton to address facilities challenges at the Jackson/Mann and Horace Mann schools.

Continue working with Grove Hall Alliance school communities (Burke High, Frederick Middle, Trotter K-8, King K-8, and Haynes Early Education Center) to review feeder patterns for the potential creation of a pathway for students.

All of these proposals advance the values of BuildBPS by ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality, 21st-century public education. Throughout this process, we’ll rely on the input of residents and BPS families. BPS will keep providing updates at bostonpublicschools.org/buildbps with more details on how the plan will affect them. I look forward to working with the community on these exciting changes. 

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What's Happening at the East Boston Branch of the Public Library: February Events Listing

Concert-Box Not Found: Stories Saturday, February 2nd at 3 p.m.
Box Not Found: Stories, comes to to the East Boston Public Library!  This performance is open to the public at no cost.  This program will feature brand new works by composers Camila Agosto, Ariel Friedman and Ian Wiese. Each composer has written a piece inspired by a story that has a significant impact in their personal life.

• Camila Agosto: Paper House
• Ariel Friedman: Joshua Fit The Battle
• Ian Wiese: What a Fast Little Engine! : Scenes from ‘Choo-Choo’
• Natalie Calma: going places

Paper Lanterns, Tuesday, February 5 at 4 p.m.
The Lunar New Year starts February 5.  Many families decorate for the new year by hanging lanterns around their house or marching through the neighborhood carrying lanterns. Come make your own paper lantern and celebrate the Lunar New Year. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

ESOL Intermediate English Class
Wednesdays and Fridays from 11:30 to 1 p.m.
Starting on February 6th
This is an adult ESL Intermediate English class for people with some English experience. You will review grammar basics, learn how to offer and request advice, talk about future hopes and plans, and fix common mistakes in English pronunciation! Registration is required. To register and for more information, please visit us, call 617.859.2446, or email literacyservices@bpl.org.
Classes are free.

Cooking for Babysitters
Thursdays, 2/7, 2/14, 2/28, & 3/7, 4 p.m.
Join us at the East Boston Branch Library as Debbie Alsebai (Kidz Cooking with Miss Debbie) teaches us how to cook some healthy and delicious meals perfect to prepare when babysitting!  This is part of a babysitting series. Dates for upcoming Babysitting Class presented by 4H will be announced shortly.
Space is limited to 15 kids, so please call the library at 617.569.0271 or speak to a librarian to sign up. THIS PROGRAM IS FOR KIDS IN GRADES 6-12 ONLY!!!


USCIS Immigration Information Session:
February 8th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
A U.S. Citizenship and Immigration officer will be at the branch to answer questions on immigration issues including eligibility requirements; filing procedures; finding knowledgeable, low-cost and safe legal advice and how to avoid scams. This is a cooperative effort of USCIS, BPL and the Mayor's Office for Immigrant Advancement.


Small Biz Basics: Flyers, Menus, and More
February 12th at 10:30 a.m.
Do you have a small business or side hustle that you'd like to promote? Don't have the time to learn graphic design? Canva is a free tool you can use to make fancy flyers, menus, and more without breaking a sweat.
You'll need basic computer/internet skills and a list of ideas and we will go over Canva basics and craft one item to print and take.
??Registration is recommended. Please RSVP to jidakaar@bpl.org.


Caravan Puppets
Friday, February 22nd at 3 p.m.
Caravan Puppets has delighted countless children and families throughout the USA, Canada and Japan.  “The Four Season Bear” is a delightful tale of the year of a young bear with memorable songs, beautiful puppets, storytelling and audience participation.  Funding for this program was made possible by the Highland Street Foundation.

The Possible Project, Madison Park Technical Vocational High School and Boston Medical Center Launch Job Training and Educational Program for Students

BOSTON, December 11, 2018– Students who are dual-enrolled in The Possible Project and Madison Park Technical Vocational High School’s Allied Health Vocation Program will now be able to do more than just study a career in health care: they will gain hands on training in clinical assistant and support services roles at Boston Medical Center and can apply for jobs at the hospital at the end of the academic year.

Students from sophomores to seniors will be engaged in education programs, job shadowing and training, including direct instruction from the BMC staff at both the Madison Park and BMC campuses. At the conclusion of the school year, seniors will be eligible to apply for open medical assistant and nursing assistant jobs as well as support services roles at BMC, which combined currently number more than 500 positions.

“With the need for qualified healthcare personnel on the rise, it is paramount that we, career vocational technical education high schools, prepare our students to meet that demand, states Kevin McCaskill, Executive Director of Madison Park Technical Vocational High School. “Allied health giants such as BMC provide us with the knowledge, skills, and resources to better prepare our students for post-secondary and career success. Allied health partners are a key component to improving student outcomes across the board. An alliance with BMC is a game changer for us and we are truly thankful and grateful for the role The Possible Project played in developing this partnership.”

Founded by Mark and Becky Levin, the Possible Project (TPP) inspires students to unlock their potential for success through innovation and design thinking, social emotional skills, entrepreneurship, work experience, and college and career pathways support. TPP is committed to providing innovative opportunities to students knowing that students are fundamentally more engaged when their learning has obvious and clear real-world relevance and application.

“We believe this type of industry engaged partnership is critical to the success of students in high school,” said Becky Levin, Executive Director and Founder of The Possible Project. “This partnership could be a model for the region and for the country.”

“As one of the region’s largest employers, we know firsthand that the greatness of our city and hospital comes from the many faces in our community,” said Lisa Kelly-Croswell, BMC’s Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer. “There is tremendous talent and heart in Boston’s public schools and neighborhoods. Our collective efforts and enthusiasm will translate into educational and job opportunities for students, as well as advance our vision to make Boston the healthiest urban population in the world.”

This pilot partnership aims to provide a rich and authentic educational experience often left off the table in traditional classrooms: hands-on project based lessons with a committed industry partner. Students will acquire both the technical skills of medical assistants and certified nursing assistants from their instruction at Madison Park, as well as an entrepreneurial mindset, professionalism, team spirit, communications and customer service skills fostered by The Possible Project.

“For students to be truly successful in today’s economy, they need more than some technical acumen and a job application,” said Robert Finnegan, Vice President at the Possible Project. “They need the mindsets to succeed; professional skills; mentors who care; and great companies like Boston Medical Center to step up and show that they care about recruiting talented members of the community.”

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About Boston Medical Center

Boston Medical Center is a private, not-for-profit, 487-bed, academic medical center that is the primary teaching affiliate of Boston University School of Medicine. It is the largest and busiest provider of trauma and emergency services in New England. Boston Medical Center offers specialized care for complex health problems and is a leading research institution, receiving more than $116 million in sponsored research funding in fiscal year 2017. It is the 15th largest recipient of funding in the U.S. from the National Institutes of Health among independent hospitals. In 1997, BMC founded Boston Medical Center Health Plan, Inc., now one of the top ranked Medicaid MCOs in the country, as a non-profit managed care organization. Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine are partners in the Boston HealthNet – 14 community health centers focused on providing exceptional health care to residents of Boston. For more information, please visit http://www.bmc.org.



About Madison Park Technical Vocational High School

Madison Park Technical Vocational High School is Boston’s only vocational and technical high school providing rich training in 16 vocational tracks. The mission of the Madison Park Technical Vocational High School is to provide our students with rigorous academic and technical educational programs and the character necessary to further pursue and succeed in postsecondary and career opportunities in order to become productive citizens.  

https://www.bostonpublicschools.org/madisonpark


About The Possible Project

The Possible Project works to instill an entrepreneurial mindset in our students, developing the social-emotional skills necessary to work collaboratively and solve problems in a high-level career path. We guide students through a dynamic curriculum, including hands-on work experience and individualized career planning, to develop the personal qualities that predict future professional success. https://possibleproject.org/

Source: Timothy Viall

Senior Media Relations Specialist

Boston Medical Center

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Launch of First Tech Apprenticeship Program in Massachusetts

Innovative training program will help connect a diverse pool of applicants to high demand jobs in areas such as software development and cyber security

BOSTON, MA – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced the launch of Apprenti Massachusetts, the first technology focused registered apprenticeship program in the Commonwealth. The program will work with the tech industry to identify high demand employment categories which can be filled by motivated job seekers regardless of their educational background. Applicants for the program will be recruited from a broad base of local community partners. Accepted applicants will receive up to five months of certified technical training and one year of paid on-the-job training  through one of the program’s employer partners.

“Massachusetts is home to world-class educational institutions and a dynamic workforce that serve as the foundation of the Commonwealth’s economic strength and resiliency,” said Governor Charlie Baker.  “The launch of industry-specific apprenticeships, beginning with our partnership with Apprenti, enhances the state’s position as a global leader in tech and education by providing a new pathway for people who are eager to enter the tech sector but who might not otherwise have had the training or connections to pursue it.”

“Our administration has taken important steps to ensure Massachusetts’ workforce is prepared to participate in and help shape the state’s incredible innovation economy,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito . “Apprenticeship programs and partnerships with  organizations like Apprenti are necessary to supercharge workforce development and drive even more economic growth in the Commonwealth by bringing more citizens into the tech workforce and we are grateful to the Workforce Skills Cabinet for their leadership on these efforts.”

In 2015, the Baker-Polito Administration established the Workforce Skills Cabinet to align the Executive Offices of Education, Housing and Economic Development, and Labor and Workforce Development toward a comprehensive economic growth agenda focused on closing skills gaps in areas such as technology, health care, and advanced manufacturing.

To date, the Baker-Polito Administration has awarded more than $50 million in Workforce Skills Capital Grants to help educational institutions purchase job ready technologies that positively impact thousands of students in the Commonwealth every year. The Fiscal Year 2019 budget was the first to include a joint workforce funding request and included money for expanding the apprenticeship model into high demand fields. This year’s economic development bill also included new tax credits for companies starting up registered apprenticeships in Healthcare, Advanced Manufacturing, and Tech.

“The tech apprenticeship program will help further our efforts to align our education, economic, and workforce programs to address the potential of critical talent shortages in high demand occupations due to changing technical requirements in the coming years,” said Labor and Workforce Development  Secretary Rosalin Acosta. “This program is a great  example of the power of collaboration between private, public, philanthropic, and the nonprofit sector and I want to thank the One8 Foundation for identifying this opportunity and helping us turn it into a reality.”

“This new apprenticeship program not only strengthens our response to critical employer needs in information technology, it also aligns with our efforts to expand computer science education at all levels, while providing students with work-based learning experiences,” Education Secretary James Peyser said.

“Employers in Massachusetts have added over 60,000 jobs over the last year, with much of those gains concentrated in key knowledge based sectors of our economy like information technology,” said Housing and Economic Development  Secretary Jay Ash. “The launch of the first tech apprenticeship program will help Massachusetts leverage our existing talent pools and help them acquire the skills and experience to meet the needs of our  fastest growing employers.”

The announcement event was held at the global headquarters of Wayfair, a home goods e-commerce company founded in Massachusetts. Wayfair is one of Apprenti Massachusetts’ founding employer partners, and will be hiring apprentices from the first Apprenti tech apprentice cohort. Additional founding hiring partners include Cengage, CarbonBlack, Harvard University Information Technology, Partners Healthcare, and PTC.

“Wayfair is excited to partner with Governor Baker, Lt.  Governor Polito and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the launch of Apprenti Massachusetts,” said Niraj Shah, CEO, co-founder  and co-chairman of Wayfair. “Wayfair’s success is built on the strength of our workforce and our continued rapid growth as a global e-commerce leader depends on our ability to source and develop the very best tech talent. With our corporate headquarters firmly rooted in Massachusetts, we are committed  to working hand-in-hand with the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative and the Commonwealth to ensure the local talent pool has greater access to the tech sector and the skills and training needed to help drive our innovation economy forward. We look forward  to welcoming members of the first Apprenti class to the Wayfair team.”

The application and training certification process will be handled through the Apprenti Massachusetts online platform. Apprenti is an industry recognized, state and federally accredited program, which was created by the Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA.) 

Apprenti Massachusetts will be funded by  the One8 Foundation and will reside at the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech,) the state’s lead quasi-public agency to support the technology sector in Massachusetts. The One8 Foundation, a Boston-based philanthropic organization focused on increasing access to applied learning opportunities for Massachusetts students and adults, will fund the initial operations of Apprenti in the state while the organization grows its set of employer partners and expands its work with apprentices.

“We’re honored that the Administration has chosen MassTech as the Massachusetts partner and host for this critical program,” stated Pat Larkin, Director of the Innovation Institute at MassTech. “The Innovation Institute has shepherded programs that have grown tech internships, added new mentoring opportunities for entrepreneurs, and increased cybersecurity training statewide. Hosting Apprenti makes perfect sense and complements our existing programs  extremely well.”

“More than 10 percent of the Massachusetts labor force  works in tech, and that’s a higher percentage than any other state,” said Apprenti Executive Director Jennifer Carlson. “In 2017, there were more than 100,000  tech job postings in Massachusett and Apprenti wants to help the state fill these roles by providing a clear path to employment through apprenticeship.”

Applications for tech apprenticeships in Massachusetts  through the Apprenti platform are available now. More information on how to become an apprentice or a hiring partner can be found at www.apprenti.org.

The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative is an innovative public agency working to enhance  economic growth, accelerate technology use and adoption, and harness the value of research by engaging in meaningful collaborations across academia, industry, and government.  From improving our health care systems and expanding high-speed internet across  the state to fostering emerging industry clusters, MassTech is driving innovation and supporting a vibrant economy across the Commonwealth. Visit masstech.org to learn more. 

The MassTech Intern Partnership connects talented college students and recent graduates to internships in the state's dynamic technology sector.

Source: Workskills Cabinet/EOWLD:  11/15/2018

The Great Savio Reunion II

Come join alumni and friends from all classes in celebration of the 60th anniversary of Savio's founding at "The Great Savio Reunion II."

Saturday, November 24 at the Salesian Boys & Girls Club of East Boston (150 Byron Street)
6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

To purchase tickets visit EventBrite.

Tickets include a special 60th T-Shirt and proceeds will go to the Spartan Fund.
Refreshments will be served. 

NOTE: The Alumni Mass preceding the reunion will be celebrated at 5:00 p.m. 

Mayor Walsh: Back to School, a letter to all Boston students.

Back to School 

By Mayor Martin J. Walsh

Dear Students, 

September is one of my favorite months. The weather is getting cooler, football is back in season, and students like yourselves are heading back to school.

You might not know it, but it takes a village to prepare for the first day of school. Your teachers, principals, and custodians have spent the summer getting ready for the big day--- creating lessons, preparing your classrooms, and planning the great adventures you’re sure to have this year. 

The first day of school provides countless opportunities. You’ll find new ways to develop as students, athletes, artists, and leaders. You’ll reconnect with old friends, and make new ones. It’s a fresh start--- a chance to start things off on the right foot. I hope that you will set new goals, and work hard to make this your best school year yet. 

The new year will also bring new challenges. But persevering is an important part of school and growing up. I can say that from personal experience. When I was seven, I was diagnosed with cancer. I had to miss a lot of school for treatments and I even had to repeat fifth grade. But the support of my family, my teachers, and my friends helped me pull through. That’s the strength of the Boston community. I hope you know that our city will always have your back, too. If you’re ever going through a hard time, don’t hesitate to ask a trusted adult, a teacher, or your school community for help. We’re all here to root one another on. 

Whatever this school year has in store, I wish you the best of luck. Challenge yourselves. Try new things. And put your best foot forward. If you start the school year with an open mind and an open heart, there’s nothing you can’t achieve. I’ll be rooting for you every step of the way. 

I’ll see you soon, 

Mayor Walsh 

This Saturday 6/9: Augmented Reality and Meet Curious George

This Saturday (December 2) at the East Boston Library: Boston Mosaic: Music by Latin American Women Composers & Slide Lecture on Shen Yun

Boston Mosaic: Music by Latin American Women Composers 
Saturday, December 2, 2017 at 12 p.m.

As part of Boston MOSAIC, the Boston Philharmonic presents an interactive concert of music by Latina composers, in partnership with the Unitas Ensemble and The Musary.  The program  features not only a concert portion, but also opportunities to interact with the musicians, ask questions about the music, and even a chance to play the instruments at one of our Instrument Playgrounds.Sure to be a fun experience for the whole family. Free and suitable for all ages!


Shen Yun: Leap into 5,000 Years of Magnificent Culture
Saturday, December 2,2017 at 2 p.m.

Join us for a slide lecture on reviving the essences of traditional Chinese culture through Shen Yun.

For more information contact:

East Boston Branch Branch Library
365 Bremen Street
East Boston, MA 02128
(617)569-0271

Tech Goes Home: Free computer training through East Boston APAC

Tech Goes Home is a computer-based program with the goal of ensuring that all low-come residents of Greater Boston are equipped with the tools, training, and access to support the development of 21st Century skills. The TGH program offers resident the ability to improve their quality of life as new  member of the online community.

What's included for Boston residents?

• 15 Hours of  Computer training
• A web-based curriculum designed to help you access resources throughout the internet.
• The option to purchase a brand new computer for just $50
• Help in accessing significantly discounted high-speed internet for qualified participants

If you interested in participating or have any questions, Speak to a staff at ABCD East Boston APAC or Call 617-567-8857

Boston Teachers Union Host Back-to-School Fair for Public School Families

Boston (Sept 23)- Thousands of Boston-area public school families attended a fun-filled and educational back-to-school fair, September 23 sponsored by the Boston Teachers Union. Among the attractions were music and activities for students of all ages, free books and educational materials, and resources for parents from community partners.

Educators in Boston Public Schools recently settled a new contract with the district that includes improvements for students and families advocated for by BTU educators. Key features of the contract included an increase to the number of school nurses, a commitment to joint labor-management work, training to ensure the best possible education experience for all students, and greater investments in “restorative practices” aimed at reducing suspensions and expulsions by providing additional social and emotional supports to students. 


Meanwhile, BTU educators have been actively campaigning to protect Boston students and families from the threat to immigration protections for individuals who arrived in the country as children or as refugees. BTU leaders and educators recently united with Boston Public Schools officials to advocate for additional school funding during legislative hearings at the State House.

“This year’s back-to-school fair was an opportunity to celebrate the unity we are building among educators, families, BPS officials, city leaders and the community in advocating for the best public schools possible,” said Jessica Tang, who took office earlier this year as president of the Boston Teachers Union. Tang is the first woman of color to lead the 10,000-member local. “We have started this school year with a wonderful event that celebrates reading and literacy while also celebrating our diverse community and providing a fun, free day of activities for students and families. We hope to continue this spirit throughout the year.


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The Boston Teachers Union proudly represents more than 10,000 teachers and other professionals including nurses, psychologists, guidance counselors, paraprofessionals, and substitute teachers. Together, we advocate for the interests of students, parents and education professionals throughout the Boston Public Schools. We support investment in public education to ensure a stronger future for our students and our city. As a union of educators, we are part of a movement that seeks to improve the quality of life for all working people and their children. We are united against all forms of prejudice and bigotry that would seek to devalue the lives or liberties of our students, families, or colleagues.

Real estate firm donates 10 laptop computers to Boston school’s autism program.

(EAST BOSTON) As she and other teachers worked with students in the autism program at East Boston’s Samuel Adams School, Michelle Lamacchia faced a major obstacle early this year.

The teaching curriculum that her staff follows — developed by the New England Center for Children and approved by the Boston public school system — had changed to an online system which required periodic use of computers by faculty and administrators. 

Yet the school had no budget for new computer equipment. 

Lamacchia and Irvin reached out to Boston real estate firm City Realty Group, which operates a non-profit community service organization named CityKids. 

Staffers from the company visited the school last month, and this week the children and teachers from the autism strand at the Adams school gathered in the school’s auditorium to get a first look at 10 new laptop computers presented by Stephen Whalen, managing partner of City Realty.

The donation “will enable all of our teachers to have the technology to use this curriculum to its potential,” Lamacchia said.  “Ultimately, this will lead to greater gains for our students.”

Whalen said the donation is one part of his firm’s youth program: intended to provide the children of Boston with unique experiences and educational resources. Over the past year the company has donated 250 Chromebook computers to area schools and youth organizations. The program also sponsors healthy events and outings for teen-agers, playground cleaning and restorations, and a summer jobs program.

"The kids of this city will shape Boston’s future," Whalen said. "As a local business, we feel an obligation to help the schools and equip them with the tools necessary for a successful education."
At the Adams school, which teaches children from pre-kindergarten through 5th grade, "our early childhood team not only teaches our students the skills they need in order to learn, but also makes school a fun, inviting, and safe place to learn," Lamacchia said. I am so proud of this program and the team of professionals that we have here at the Adams.”

Source:   ANDREW SCHERDING l 
(508) 246-6664; 
ascherding@qmarketinginc.com

Events this month at the East Boston Library

Big Joe the Storyteller on Tuesday, June 14th at 4 p.m.
Big Joe the Storyteller has stories that will delight and amaze his audience.  Some stories are classics that are very familiar, some stories have never been heard, and some were written by Big Joe himself.  No matter what type of stories Big Joe tells, they all have one thing in common; they are fun and exciting.  Recommended for ages 3 and up.

Author Lecture:
Join biologist Nathan H. Lents on Thursday, June 16th at 6 p.m. for a discussion of his book, Not So Different:  Finding  Human Nature in Animals.  Through a mix of colorful reporting and rigorous scientific research, Lents describes the exciting strides scientists have made in decoding animal behavior.  Whether Lents is discussing love, grief, greed or envy, he provides ample evidence that animals have a rich inner life. Following the lecture, Prof. Lents will sign books.  A limited number are available for purchase on-site.

Facebook Workshop:
Join us for Intro to Facebook on Friday, June 17th at 10:00 am. We will go over all of the ins & outs of how to get the most out of your experience on the world's most popular social network. For more information, call (617)569-0271.

Irish Music Concert:
Join us on Saturday, June 18th at 3 p.m. for an hour of Irish folk music performed by Boston’s Erin Og.  The band’s repertoire includes songs of Ireland’s 800 years of oppression as well as a wide range of Irish folk music.

Movie Showing:
The Student Immigrant Movement is presenting Indivisible:  Love Knows No Borders at the East Boston Branch Library on Monday, June 20th at 6 p.m. This documentary is about the fight to reunite families separated by deportation.

Teen Book Discussion and Movie:  The Hobbit
Join us as we discuss J.R.R. Tolkien's classic fantasy novel on Tuesday, June 21 @ 2:30 pm. We will view the film on the next day, June 22nd, @ 2:30 pm. Refreshments will be served with the film on the 22nd. Copies of the book are available for checkout now at the library.


Matt Heaton Concert:
Matt  Heaton joins us for a rollicking children’s concert on Wednesday, June 22nd at 10:30 a.m. .  Mr. Heaton’s  music mixes surf, Amerian roots and Irish traditional.  It is delivered with a sense of humor, and is fun for both kids and adults.  For ages 2-5, accompanied by an adult.

Matt Heaton

USCIS Immigration Information Session:
Saturday, June 25th  from 9-1.
A U.S. Citizenship and Immigration officer will be at the branch to answer questions on immigration issues including eligibility requirements; filing procedures; finding knowledgeable, low-cost and safe legal advice and how to avoid scams. This is a cooperative effort of USCIS, BPL and the Mayor's Office for Immigrant Advancement.

Massport STEM Expo Promotes Various Transportation Careers

Students from area schools learn the practical importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

BOSTON – More than 1,500 students from 44 Greater Boston schools attended the Aviation and Maritime STEM Education Expo at Boston Logan International Airport today. The Expo is an annual education event where representatives from industry, government, and academia introduce students and educators to the opportunities and experiences offered by the aviation, maritime, and transportation fields.

“It is essential for organizations like Massport that students are exposed to careers in science, technology, engineering and math,” said Massport CEO Thomas P. Glynn. “Boston is home to a number of industries including life sciences, technology and innovation. We need our young people to have the interest and motivation to study the STEM disciplines so we can continue to generate the good-paying jobs and economic impact that propel the Commonwealth.”

More than 50 displays and information booths representing various aspects of the industries served as the backdrop for the event at the Delta Hangar. There were 21 aircraft including airplanes, two helicopters, numerous airport operations vehicles, as well as a Massport Fire Rescue airboat. In addition to several Massport departments, exhibitors included The Museum of Science, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Mass Maritime Academy, Massachusetts Air and Space Museum, Massachusetts State Police, Boston MedFlight and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

“Hundreds of careers at our airports were represented today,” said Massport’s Director of Aviation Ed Freni. “We rely on the engineers who design and build the planes, the pilots who fly them, the electricians who keep runways lit and radars working properly, the air traffic controllers who make sure aircraft travel safely in the sky, and many more. Showcasing the various career paths at the STEM Expo will hopefully encourage these young people to one day have a career at Logan.”

Massport employs hundreds of people in STEM fields including electricians, engineers, analysts, and technicians who work in concert to accomplish the authority’s mission of connecting Massachusetts and New England to the world. The STEM Education Expo started as a collaborative effort sponsored by the FAA and Massport in 1994.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) owns and operates Boston Logan International Airport, public terminals in the Port of Boston, Hanscom Field, and Worcester Regional Airport. Massport is a financially self-sustaining public authority whose premier transportation facilities generate more than $15 billion annually, and enhance and enable economic growth and vitality in New England. No state tax dollars are used to fund operations or capital improvements at Massport facilities. For more information please visit massport.com.

Hwang Listens to Parents on Schools, Pledges to Be a Strong Voice

State Senate Candidate Concludes Listening Tour on Education Across First Suffolk and Middlesex District
 
State Senate candidate Diana Hwang completed a listening tour this week across the district, talking with parents from each community about our local schools.  From Winthrop to Cambridge, Boston to Revere, Diana heard from parents about their current concerns and their future hopes for their children’s education.

“Parents recognize the power that quality public schools have to break cycles of poverty and educate all of our children to succeed,” Hwang noted. “The problem in the current charter cap debate is that it’s taking place between two powerful interest groups, one on each side – and parents and their children are caught in the middle. While insiders are arguing about raising charter school caps, parents in every community don’t really want charter schools or district schools, they want good schools and they want them NOW.”

 “I heard from two young families in Jeffries Point, holding babies in their arms that they are already worrying about the lottery – and whether there will be a quality nearby school to send their child to.  A young mother who also serves as a school librarian in Cambridge told me that she and her colleagues fear cuts to the very library programs that are vital to educating the whole child – and teaching every child a love of reading and learning.”

“One mother in the North End remarked that her son was one of only two from the entire neighborhood who had gotten into the high quality Eliot School.  Two mothers from El Salvador who had settled in the district to escape gang violence in their native country but worried that their boys would be swept up in gang violence here because they have no after school programs to divert them.  And a an education advocate and her friends in Revere pointed out that recent budget cuts might impact all extra-curricular activities including sports.”

“As State Senator, I’ll fight for each and every one of these families – and bring their voices to the debate,” Hwang said at the conclusion of her listening tour.  “We have to ensure that ALL schools get the resources they need so that every student can attend a great school.  I support conclusions of the Legislature’s Foundation Budget Commission calling for increased funding and would staunchly support the so-called ‘millionaires tax’ as a way of raising the required revenue.”

Diana Hwang, an East Boston resident, is a candidate for the Democratic nomination in the special election to replace Senator Anthony Petruccelli.  She is the co-founder and executive director of a successful non-profit that mentors young women to become community leaders.  She previously served as a top aide in the state house and a chief-of-staff in Boston’s City Council.  She’s running for State Senate to stand up to powerful insiders and special interests who make decisions behind closed doors that effect our families.  Diana will be a voice for all of our families in the halls of power.

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Source: Diana Hwang campaign

Volunteers needed for after-school tutoring at McKay School

The College Success Academy offers rigorous, tuition-free programs to Boston Public Schools students seeking to succeed in high school and pursue a college education. In pursuit of this mission, CSA offers after-school tutoring to middle school Scholars at two of our partner schools: the Edison K-8 School in Brighton and the McKay K-8 School in East Boston. 

The East Boston neighborhood is new to us, and we are looking for dedicated young adults (high school to mid-20's) to work as volunteer tutors in our after-school program during the upcoming academic year.

Volunteer tutors will work at the McKay site on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:30 m to 5:30 pm from mid-September to mid-May.

If you are passionate about education, working with kids, or making sure that everyone has a chance to go to college, please e-mail Program Assistant Enya O’Riordan (eoriordan@tsf.org) and include “Volunteer Tutor” in the subject line.

Source: eoriordan@tsf.org

Countdown to Kindergarten & Airmall Boston Draw Winner of $5,000 College Scholarship

This just in from Main Streetsl

Representative Adrian Madaro, East Boston Main Streets, Countdown to Kindergarten, and Airmall Boston Draw Winner of $5,000 College Scholarship

Nicolas Morales, a kindergartener at the McKay school in East Boston

BOSTON, MA (July 28, 2015) – On Tuesday, July 28, East Boston Main Streets’ Executive Director Max Gruner was joined by Mike Caro, VP of Airmall Boston, members of the Countdown to Kindergarten steering committee, and State Representative Adrian Madaro to draw the name of the Kindergartener who is the winner of the $5,000 college scholarship provided by Airmall Boston.  “Our annual Countdown to Kindergarten Parade is a wonderfully joyous event that truly highlights the benefits of our vibrant public-private partnerships in East Boston,” says State Representative Adrian Madaro.

Last year, at the annual East Boston Countdown to Kindergarten Parade, EBMS and Airmall Boston announced a $5,000 college scholarship in the form of a 529 college savings account to be provided to one East Boston kindergartener with perfect attendance during the school year.  “This scholarship is important to us,” says EBMS executive director Max Gruner, “not only because it can make a real impact on the long-term educational opportunities of one of our kids but because it sends a threefold message: one, our East Boston community cares about education and our kids; two, it encourages parents to think about the importance of investing early in the long-term education of their children; three, it underscores the importance of attendance at school.”

The scholarship winner, Nicolas Morales, a kindergartener at the McKay school in East Boston, and his family will be presented with a ceremonial check at the 15th annual East Boston Countdown to Kindergarten Parade on Thursday, September 3rd, 2015. Also at this event, EBMS, Airmall, and the CTK steering committee are pleased to be able to announce the continuation of this college scholarship initiative and will be announcing the second annual $5,000 college scholarship for an East Boston kindergartener with perfect attendance at school. 

 “This event has been a long standing tradition for the East Boston community. It helps to create a solid foundation for the future of East Boston, and we at Airmall, who live and work in this community as well, are honored to play a role in this day," says Mike Caro, Vice President at Airmall Boston.

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EBMS is a non-profit corporation. Our mission is to create a more vibrant business district by initiating private and public improvements, promoting commerce, and supporting efforts to improve the quality of life for all who live, work and do business in East Boston.

Drawing for Countdown to Kindergarten Scholarship: July 28

On Tuesday, July 28th, at 10:00am at the East Boston Social Centers in East Boston, Central Square, Adrian Madaro will be drawing the name of the Kindergartener with perfect attendance during the past school year who will be receiving the $5K college scholarship announced as part of the Countdown to Kindergarten Celebration and provided courtesy of AirMall.

The drawing will last 20mins from 10:30am-10:50am.  We would very much like media to be present.

Background:

    East Boston is the only remaining Boston neighborhood to celebrate its rising Kindergarteners with a celebration and Parade
    Last year, EBMS and AirMall announced the first annual Countdown to Kindergarten College Scholarship to be presented to an EB kindergartener with perfect attendance during the school year (note: excused absences do not count against the students attendance record)
    We have just received the list of eligible Kindergartners and will be drawing the name of the winner who will receive $5K in a 529 college savings account; the drawing will be promptly at 10:30am on Tuesday, July 28.
    The check will be handed to the family during this year's Countdown to Kindergarten Parade on Thursday, September 3rd from 10:30am-1:00pm.
    At the Parade, EBMS and AirMall will be announcing another $5K scholarship for this coming year.

Talking Points:

    Importance of early childhood education
    Importance of parent involvement in all aspects of child's educational experience, including attendance
    Importance of thinking ahead and planning for ongoing education of the child beyond high-school

Do you know someone between the ages of 16 and 24 that needs their High School Diploma?

This just in from the EBNHC:

As part of our Youth and Young Adults Pathways Program (YYAPP), Our Education and Training Institute (ETI) has been running a HiSET program the past several weeks.  HiSET, or High School Equivalency Test, is the new replacement to GED.  Our first program was intended to be small, but we are pleased to say that several EBNHC patients, and now students, have already benefited from the program.  Just last week one of our students took their first two equivalency exams and passed both successfully!

EBNHC’s ETI will again be offering FREE HiSET Classes this fall – on a larger scale.  A High School Diploma is critical for anyone’s future and this is an excellent opportunity to assist our patients with preparation.  The program begins this October and runs Monday through Friday from 9:30am to 2:30pm.  Classes are conducted in English only, however, ESOL classes are also offered at the Institute.  The Education & Training Institute is located at 250 Sumner Street in East Boston and is just 2 blocks from the Maverick “T” Station, so very easy to get to from all of our service areas. 

If you know of anyone who is interested, please have them call 617-568-6444 today to register and schedule an intake and assessment appointment. 

East Boston YMCA offers free community cooking classes

Tuesday Night Classes Focus on Fresh Ingredients & Healthy Cooking on a Budget

The East Boston YMCA Cooking For Life programs offers free community cooking classes every Tuesday evening that teach basic cooking skills and emphasize healthy cooking on a budget. All of the classes are taught by the Y’s Director of Kitchen Services, Chef Meg Tallon.
 
"These classes are a great way to learn the basics of healthy cooking," said Tallon. "We’ll help you feel more comfortable in the kitchen and expand your cooking repertoire with simple healthy meals that make the most of your food budget.”

The next session of free classes include:

October 28 - Kitchen Basics: Learn how to stock your home pantry with kitchen essentials and master basic cooking techniques like sautéing, braising and roasting. 

November 4 - Make-Ahead Meals - Learn how to prepare sauces and main dishes like Beef Stew that you can prepare days, and even weeks, before you need them. With our make-ahead staples and you’ll be able to enjoy a home-cooked meal every night.

November 11 - Healthy Cooking Basics - Keep the flavors you love while focusing on fresh healthy ingredients. You’ll make over recipes like Chicken and Rice and Lasagna and see just how delicious healthy cooking can be.

November 18 - Tastes of the Season:  Fall Harvest - Cooking with seasonal ingredients ensures maximum freshness and helps you get the most for your food dollars. This class uses the fruits and vegetables of the fall harvest season to create a fall feast on a budget.

Classes are held at the Y Teaching Kitchen at 54 Ashley Street on Tuesday evenings, 6:00-8:00 pm. Free on-site childcare is available to participants. Sign up for one class or for the entire four-week session. Advance registration is required. Please call Meg Tallon at 617-418-7331, ext. 203, to reserve your spot.

In addition to the free community cooking classes, the East Boston Y also offers a wide array of cooking master classes --- including Decadent Desserts, Easy Italian and Extreme Holiday Meal Makeovers. Master classes are $40 for members and$50 for non-members. The proceeds from the master classes support the Y’s free community cooking and nutritional education programming. To find out more about the master classes, visit www.ymcaboston.org/eastboston/kitchen.

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YMCA of Greater Boston’s Teen Director East Boston's J. Gaeta Honored with Community Call’s 2014 Young Leader Award

EAST BOSTON | East Boston resident and the YMCA of Greater Boston’s Association- Wide Director of Teen Programming, Joseph Gaeta, 31, will be awarded with Community Call’s 2014 Young Leader Award.

The award honors a young leader who has made a positive impact and whose civic, social, and community leadership sets an inspiring example to the community. Gaeta was chosen from dozens of candidates for his work helping to keep East Boston High School students in school and on track to graduate on time.

“When a student fails even one credited course their odds go up of not graduating on time, or worse, dropping out altogether,” says Gaeta. “In East Boston, the situation is even worse. More than 100 students are not moving up to the next grade and half of those students are expected to drop out. As someone from the community, who went to East Boston High, it’s important to me to help change the fate for these students.”

In partnership with East Boston High, Gaeta helped to launch a program at the East Boston Y to build a Credit Recovery (CR) Center for high school student on site. Students work at their own pace to recover missed credits they need to graduate. Since the CR Center opened its doors, 73 students participated and successfully completed 97 courses. This allowed fifteen at-risk students to graduate with the class of 2014.

Unlike the school setting where the majority of credit recovery programs are held, the air-conditioned CR Center at the Y is well equipped, comfortable and welcoming. An East Boston High guidance counselor is onsite, able to help students gain access to the online curriculum, problem solve and ensure that the students stay focused.  As an added incentive, a free unrestricted Y membership is provided to students who enroll in the program. A free, healthy snack is available for students as well.

During the summer of 2014, Gaeta also managed a summer program that provided free access to more than 800 activities for more than 10,000 teens across the City of Boston.

“One third of the population in Boston is under the age of 35, and each of these people has the power to make a difference in the community. The Community Call Young Leader Award is an opportunity to recognize someone who is in this group that sets an example of giving back,” said Carolyn Edwards, Executive Director of Community Call. “Joseph exemplifies someone who has taken the time to invest in his community with outstanding results and serves as a wonderful role model to our students.”

Community Call works to develop critical thinking, confidence and self-empowerment with Boston area at-risk high school students through community event planning. Students of Community Call are inspired to look beyond themselves and collaborate with their peers to identify a social need, develop a plan and produce an event that benefits the broader community. Students learn organizational, business, and life skills influencing all aspects of their lives.

The Community Call 2014 Young Leader Award is presented to provide role models to its students regarding the impact they can have on their community. The award was inspired by the work of community activist Lenny Zakim to help identify young role models. Presenting the award for
a second year is Lenny Zakim’s son, Boston City Councilor Josh Zakim.

The award ceremony will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at Pegasystems’ Stand-Up Boston Comedy Challenge at Laugh Boston, 425 Summer Street, in Boston’s Seaport District.

About the YMCA of Greater Boston
The YMCA of Greater Boston is the state’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities.  Every day the Y works with thousands of men, women and children to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. With 13 branches in and around Boston, the Y partners with 250 organizations to meet unique needs of the communities it serves. The Y is committed to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

About Community Call
Community Call's (www.communitycall.org) mission is to develop critical thinking, confidence, and self-empowerment with Boston area at-risk and opportunity high school students through community event planning. Our students are inspired to look beyond themselves and collaborate with their peers to identify a social need, develop a plan, and produce an event that benefits the broader community. Students learn organizational, business, and life skills influencing all aspects of their lives.  

Our enrichment program produces a variety of entirely student-run community events providing unparalleled opportunities to learn first-hand about business and leadership and giving back to the community. By using their passion, talents, and skills, these students are more likely to believe that they can make a difference in their community while making a difference in their own lives.