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Northeast Metro Tech: Weekly Newsletter - 1/23/26

Posted Date: 01/23/26 (01:30 PM)


NEMT

Weekly Newsletter - 1/23/26

12 dots

Gold Week: The week of Monday, January 26, 2026

Grades 9 & 11: Academics
Grades 10 & 12: CTE Shops
Remember to follow the dress code.
➡️NEMT Website
 

CTE Midyear Performance Assessments

All students in Grades 10, 11, and 12 will participate in midyear performance assessments as part of their career technical education program. These competency-based assessments measure students’ progress toward career technical frameworks through project-based learning, critical thinking, practical tasks, simulations, service scenarios, and product demonstrations.

Assessment Schedule:
  • Grade 11: Tuesday, January 20 through Friday, January 23
  • Grades 10 & 12: Monday, January 26 through Friday, January 30
The assessments are administered by career technical instructors and serve as an important checkpoint at the midpoint of the school year. Instructors use the results to provide meaningful feedback to students, identify strengths and areas for growth, and inform future instruction that supports continued skill development, postsecondary preparation, and career readiness.

The images below showcase the Grade 11 midyear performance assessments, held from Tuesday, January 20, to Friday, January 23.
Midyear performance assessments
Midyear performance assessments
Midyear performance assessments
Midyear performance assessments
Midyear performance assessments
Midyear performance assessments
Midyear performance assessments
midyear performance assessments
 
Knight of the week

Knight of the Week - Senior Spotlight

Name: Alessandra (Ali) Sacco

Hometown: Stoneham

CTE Shop: Auto Body

Favorite class: AP Psychology

One skill/lesson you’ve learned at Northeast that you’ll take with you: One skill I've learned at Northeast is perseverance. No matter what challenges or setbacks I face, I've learned the importance of pushing forward and not giving up. Northeast has taught me that growth comes from staying determined, learning from mistakes, and continuing to move ahead even when things get difficult.

A person who has inspired you to be your best: A person who has inspired me to be my best is my cousin. After experiencing a loss, she showed incredible strength supporting her family. Watching her push through such a difficult situation with love and determination inspires me to stay strong and keep moving forward, no matter how hard life gets.

Favorite quote: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” — Eleanor Roosevelt

Plans after graduation: After graduation, I want to continue working at my part time job with kids because I enjoy helping and supporting them. Then in the fall I plan to attend an in-state college/university and pursue a major in the medical field, preferably working with babies so I can help change lives and make a real difference. I would also like to continue doing auto body work on the side. Overall, my goal is to be successful, build a career I’m proud of, create a family of my own, and give them everything they deserve.
 

Culinary Sophomores Record New Episode of Northeast Cooks

Sophomore culinary students Za-Lea Baker (Revere), Seren Frye (Revere), Nevaeh Muniz (Revere), and Nevaeh Eaton (Revere) recently recorded another episode of Northeast Cooks at Revere TV. The episode highlights their culinary skills and features a lesson on preparing creamy cajun chicken pasta. Click the image below to watch.
 

Financial Literacy Fair Brings Real-World Budgeting to Life

As part of their midyear assessments, Business Technology juniors are hosting a Financial Literacy Fair for the entire junior class. The simulation continues January 26-30 and places participants in real-world financial scenarios aligned to their vocational field, including careers, salaries, credit scores, and savings. Participants rotate through interactive stations to make decisions about housing, transportation, expenses, savings, and unexpected financial events - requiring them to adjust budgets in real time and finish with a balanced, net-positive results. The project also serves as a DECA competitive entry that has advanced to the state level, highlighting the importance of financial literacy as a critical life skill.
 

Last Chance to Personalize Yearbooks!

Friday, January 30 is the final deadline to personalize your student’s yearbook with a name stamp and icons. After this date, no changes can be made. Don’t miss the opportunity to create a keepsake your student will treasure for years to come.

🛒 Order today at www.jostens.com or using the NEMT link to purchase.

🔍 Not sure if you’ve already ordered a yearbook? Families can check their order status by clicking here.

For questions, contact Yearbook Advisor Jenna-Lyn Croteau at 📧 jcroteau@northeastmetrotech.com.
 

WIDA ACCESS Testing

Northeast students identified as English learners (ELs) will participate in WIDA ACCESS testing to measure their proficiency and growth in reading, listening, writing, and speaking English. In Massachusetts, EL students are required to be assessed annually during the designated testing window in January and February. Test sessions begin at Northeast on Monday, January 26, and continue through Friday, February 6. In addition to test preparation activities in their classes, students are encouraged to prepare by visiting the WIDA website, reviewing ACCESS resources, and completing available test demos and practice materials.

  • WIDA ACCESS Testing (Grades 9 & 11): Monday, January 26 through Friday, January 30
  • WIDA ACCESS Testing (Grades 10 & 12): Monday, February 2 through Friday, February 6
 

Course Selection for 2026-2027 School Year

The course selection process for the 2026-2027 school year for students in Grades 9-11 will begin with the teacher recommendation window in early February. During this time, academic teachers will meet individually with students to review their progress and enter course recommendations in Aspen. In March, counselors will meet with students in the library by shop to review the teacher recommendations and request elective courses.

Course Selection Timeline:
  • Teacher Recommendation Window: February 2 - February 13
  • Student Request Window: March 3 - March 13
When planning a course of study, students and families are encouraged to reference the Northeast Program of Studies, which outlines course options, graduation requirements, and pathways aligned with students’ interests and postsecondary plans. The Program of Studies is available on the NEMT website under the Parents & Students tab. Students are encouraged to enroll in courses that reflect their interests and provide appropriate academic challenge.

Families with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact their student’s teacher(s), counselor, or dean. Families needing assistance accessing Aspen may contact nex2@northeastmetrotech.com.
 

2 Hour Delay - Wednesday, February 4, 2026

Wednesday, February 4, is a scheduled 2-hour delay for professional development. Buses will arrive two hours later than their regular arrival time. The academic blocks for the day will be C, D, A, and B.
2 hour delay
 
second step

Healthy Relationships Assembly - Tuesday, February 10, 2026

On Tuesday, February 10, Grade 10 students will attend an assembly led by a guest speaker from The Second Step organization in the cafeteria from 9:00-10:00 a.m. The Second Step provides prevention education focused on building safe, healthy relationships, and this presentation will explore topics such as respect, communication, empathy, and setting boundaries, while helping students recognize healthy versus unhealthy behaviors. The assembly supports our ongoing commitment to student well-being and fostering a safe, respectful school community. Families with questions, or who prefer that their student not participate, may contact Social Emotional Counselor Jamie Toomey at jtoomey@northeastmetrotech.com.

🗓️ Upcoming Events 🗓️

January
  • CTE Midyear Performance Assessments: Tuesday, January 20 through Friday, January 30
  • WIDA ACCESS Testing (Grades 9 & 11): Monday, January 26 through Friday, January 30
February
  • WIDA ACCESS Testing (Grades 10 & 12): Monday, February 2 through Friday, February 6
  • 2 Hour Delay - Professional Development: Wednesday, February 4
  • SkillsUSA Senior Adventures in Leadership (SAiL) Conference: Thursday, February 5
  • Department Meetings: Monday, February 9
  • February Break - No School: Monday, February 16 through Friday, February 20
  • SkillsUSA District 3 Qualifying Event: Wednesday, February 25
  • Mid-Year Grade-Level Assemblies - Grades 9 & 11: Thursday, February 26
March
  • Professional Development Day - No School: Monday, March 2
  • Mid-Year Grade-Level Assemblies - Grades 10 & 12: Tuesday, March 3
  • End of Trimester 2: Friday, March 6
  • Freshman/Sophomore Semi-Formal: Friday, March 6
  • Department Meetings: Monday, March 9
  • SADD American Red Cross Blood Drive: Tuesday, March 10
  • DECA State Career Development Conference: Thursday, March 12 through Saturday, March 14
  • Spring Athletics Begin: Monday, March 16
  • 2 Hour Delay - Professional Development: Wednesday, March 18
  • MCAS ELA Grade 10 Test, Session 1: Tuesday, March 24
  • MCAS ELA Grade 10 Test, Session 2: Wednesday, March 25

📢 We’re Open to the Public 📢

Breakheart Inn Restaurant Open for Customers

All are invited to the Breakheart Inn Restaurant, which is open to the public. Come enjoy delicious food and friendly service. Reservations for parties of up to 5 people, as well as gift cards and lunch orders, can be placed online. Please note: all outside guests must sign in at the Main Entrance upon arrival.

Bakery Hours (Monday - Friday):
  • 9:00 a.m. - 10:55 a.m. (staff only)
  • 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. (staff & public)

Lunch Service (Tuesday - Friday):
  • 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. (staff & public)
  • Online ordering and takeout: Tuesday - Friday
  • Full-service table dining: Wednesday - Friday
📧For questions, contact Culinary Department Head Elizabeth Henderson:
ebeals@northeastmetrotech.com
 
Cosmo

Salon at Northeast Opening Soon

The Salon at Northeast is open to the public for all services.

⏰ Hours: Tuesday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
📋 Price List: Click here
📞 To schedule an appointment, call (781) 246-0810 ext. 1173

📧For questions, contact Cosmetology Department Head Amie Santos:
asantos@northeastmetrotech.com
 

Automotive Service Customers Welcome

📅 Appointments: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Automotive Technology
Auto Tech is scheduling customer vehicles for:
  • Oil changes and preventive maintenance
  • Tire service and alignment
  • Brake service
  • Driveability concerns and computer diagnostics
📧 To schedule, contact Auto Tech Department Head Paul Murphy: pmurphy@northeastmetrotech.com

Automotive Collision Repair & Refinishing
Auto Body is scheduling appointments for:
  • Minor collision repairs
  • Refinishing
  • Bodywork
  • Headlamp restoration
  • Vehicle detailing (subject to availability)
📧 To schedule, contact Auto Body Department Head Bob MacGregor: rmacgregor@northeastmetrotech.com

Support a Cause
🚗Click here to donate your vehicle to Second Chance Cars.
Engine
 
Business tech

NE Things School Store Open for Business

Show your school spirit and gear up with the latest Knights merchandise. Sales are available in person from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. daily and online 24/7. Don’t miss the chance to show off your Northeast Knights pride!

🔁 Previously Shared, Still Relevant 🔁

After-School Academic Support

After-school academic support is offered for all subjects. Students can get the extra help they need to succeed, whether it’s for a challenging class, test preparation, or Early College courses.

  • Sessions will be held Tuesday through Thursday in the Library from 2:35 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • Students can take the 3:30 buses home after the session.
Students are encouraged to take advantage of this great opportunity to enhance their learning.
 

Massachusetts Competency Determination Requirement

In addition to local graduation requirements, students must meet the Massachusetts Competency Determination (CD) requirement, as outlined in 603 CMR 30.00, as a condition of high school graduation. Northeast Metro Tech’s Competency Determination Policy may be viewed in this document. Families with questions are encouraged to contact the school for additional information.
 
Food services

Student Meals - Breakfast and Lunch

All students receive one free breakfast and one free lunch each school day. Additional meals and individual items may be purchased with cash, check, or through a MySchoolBucks account. Instructions for adding funds to a student’s meal account are available in this document. Students may not carry a negative balance; sufficient funds must be available at the time of purchase.

👉 Click here to view Food Services information on the Northeast website.

Families with questions should contact Food Services Director Jessica Bates:
📧 jbates@northeastmetrotech.com | 📞 (781) 246-0810 ext. 1671
 
No phone zone

Cell Phone Policy

Students are expected to engage in learning opportunities in each class/shop throughout the school day. Cell phones and smartwatches distract students from participating in lessons, completing assignments, contributing to class discussions, and collaborating with teachers and classmates. Unsanctioned cell phone/smartwatch use during instructional time is prohibited. All learning spaces, including classrooms and shop areas, are equipped with cell phone holders, where students must place their silenced devices upon arrival. Violations, including unauthorized photographing or video recording, may result in disciplinary action. Students are permitted to use their devices during lunch.

Emergency calls by students should be made in an administrative office, and families should contact Office A at (781) 246-0810 ext. 1644 for individual student needs. Headphones/earbuds may be used for educational purposes only; otherwise, students should remove them. Bluetooth speakers are not allowed in the building.
 
Ringer's Auto School

Driver's Education at Northeast

Ringer's Auto School is offering driver’s education at NEMT. Sessions run in February/March and April/May on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:30-5:30 p.m. Students will be released in time for the late bus, which is available for NEMT students only. The minimum age is 15 years 9 months. Click here for registration and payment information.
 

Student Parking for Juniors - Gold Weeks Only

As parking spaces have become available due to seniors being on Co-op, a limited number of spots will be open to Grade 11 students for Gold Weeks only. Beginning Sunday, December 14 at 12:00 p.m. (noon), interested juniors may complete the Student Parking Application Form to be added to a waitlist. Students in good standing, as approved by their dean, will be contacted in the order that the form was completed to purchase a parking sticker for $25 in the Business Office.

Please note: The form must be completed using the student's Northeast email account, and students will be required to upload a copy of their valid Massachusetts driver’s license and vehicle registration.

Once juniors receive a parking sticker, they may begin parking in the designated student parking areas during Gold Weeks only. As additional spaces become available, Grade 11 students will be contacted in the order the form was submitted. We aim to make as many spaces available to students as possible.

Parking spaces reserved for students are located in sections A and A2 on this image. All student vehicles parked on Northeast Metro Tech property must have a parking sticker properly displayed (affixed to the windshield above the inspection sticker on the passenger side). Detailed student parking information and expectations can be found by viewing this document.
 
no parking

Attention Student Drivers

The parking lot across from Landrigan Field (formerly J Lot) is exclusively for Wakefield Memorial High School students. Vehicles parked in this lot without a WMHS hanging placard are subject to towing per the Town of Wakefield.

In the Landrigan Field parking area, only marked spaces may be used. Parking in front of the field gate, within crosswalks, in marked fire lanes, or blocking entrances and exits are subject to ticketing or possible towing.

Parking on Hemlock Road, Farm Street, and surrounding neighborhood streets is allowed unless posted otherwise. Please be respectful by not blocking or partially blocking residential driveways.

All drivers are reminded to operate vehicles safely and remain under 15 mph while on school property.
 
School bus

Busing Information

Bus routes and schedules are available on the NEMT website under the Parents & Students tab. Students should arrive at their bus stop 10-15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

For questions, please contact Administrative Assistant Laura Ratcliffe:
📧 lratcliffe@northeastmetrotech.com | 📞 (781) 246-0810 ext. 1607
drop off & pick up

Parent Drop-off & Pick-up

Mornings can be challenging, with heavy traffic on Farm Street, Hemlock Road, and nearby streets. Students and families are encouraged to leave home early enough for students to be in their homeroom before 7:45 a.m. For everyone’s safety and to keep traffic moving, please pull forward to the triple doors by the gymnasium for drop-off and pick-up.
 

Eastern Bus Company - Drivers Needed

Eastern Bus Company is hiring bus drivers at a starting rate of $34.25 per hour with a guaranteed 25 hours per week (2.5 hours in the morning and 2.5 hours in the afternoon). A CDL B with a school bus endorsement is required. If you don’t have one, Eastern Bus Company offers training in Billerica and will assist with testing in exchange for a two-year contract.

Drivers can also earn extra with charters at a rate of $24.00 per hour, with 6 hours guaranteed during the week and 8 hours on the weekend.

For more information, please contact Jessica Guadalupe:
📞 781-395-2515 | 📧 jguadalupe@easternbusco.com
school buses
 

Aspen Student & Parent Portal Information

Families are encouraged to have frequent conversations about their student's growth and development to support their ongoing success. To guide these conversations and monitor student attendance and grades, students and families should log in to Aspen regularly. Students and parents/guardians have individual accounts with access to different resources, so parents should not share their accounts with their student. Students should click the "Sign in with Google" button to access their accounts, while parents should use their assigned username and password.

For support using and navigating Aspen, take a moment to review the Aspen Parent Portal Information document and video, which can also be found under the Parents & Students tab on the NEMT website. Families in need of Aspen support should contact us at nex2@northeastmetrotech.com.
Aspen Login
 

FAFSA Now Available for 2026-27 College and Career Schools Applicants

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now open for students planning to attend colleges and career schools during the 2026-27 academic year. Students can complete the application at fafsa.gov, which is used by most colleges to determine financial aid eligibility.

Students and families seeking assistance may join MEFA’s free virtual FAFSA Festivals, offered now through February. Participants can log in at any point during the two-hour sessions and receive one-on-one support in a breakout room from a financial aid expert. Registration is required.

Additional financial aid resources can be found at mass.gov/financialaid.
 
community resources
Families are encouraged to explore the community resources linked below for support. These include information on Emergency and Crisis Support, Community Behavioral Health, Food Assistance, Housing Assistance, LGBTQ+ Community, and Community Connection.

 

Massachusetts Partnerships for Youth (MPY) - Parenting Solutions Library

MPY, in partnership with Peace At Home Parenting Solutions, is pleased to offer free resources that provide insights and strategies to support family and student success both in and out of school. Families can access a library of videos and handouts, available in English and Spanish, featuring easy-to-use, evidence-based strategies that promote lasting, positive change. Click here for more information and to access the library of resources. 
 

Northeast Athletics - Go Knights!

Information about Knights Athletics can be found on the NEMT website under the Departments tab. Northeast home games are live-streamed on Hudl Fan.

For any questions, please contact Athletic Director Donald Heres:
📧 dheres@northeastmetrotech.com | 📞 (617) 875-4432

Northeast Logo
 
Person using a laptop

Contact Us

Please view this resource to identify the school personnel who should be contacted when seeking support. Included is contact information for student absence reporting, CTE and academic department heads, school counseling support, nurses office, deans of students, transportation, athletics, MCAS, and special education.

📞 (781) 246-0810