Northeast Metro Tech's February vacation will take place from Monday, February 16, through Friday, February 20. School resumes for all students on Monday, February 23. We wish everyone a warm, restful, and rejuvenating break.
Knight of the Week - Senior Spotlight
Name: Gianna Pellegrino
Hometown: Saugus
CTE Shop: Culinary
Favorite class: Intro to Theater
One skill/lesson you’ve learned at Northeast that you’ll take with you: I have learned how to cook meals for myself and others which will save me from having to order takeout. Sauteeing foods and preparing hot dishes are a couple of my favorite skills.
A person who has inspired you to be your best: My Grandpa owned China Roma restaurant in Revere. I saw him run a business and build relationships with customers. This inspires me to start my own business and run my own restaurant in the future.
Favorite quote: "Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans." — John Lennon
Plans after graduation: I plan to go to college to study either business or radiologic technology. I hope to study in New York City and join a band to play the guitar or drums.
Senior Mandy Lan Awarded NASSP Student Service Grant
Design & Visual senior Mandy Lan (Wakefield) has been selected to receive a $400 NASSP Student Service Grant to support her project, Paws for a Cause. The grant, which funds student-led community service initiatives across the country, will help Mandy organize a schoolwide donation drive (see info below) collecting pet food, litter, toys, and other supplies for PAWS (Protection of Animals in Wakefield Society), an all-volunteer, nonprofit animal welfare organization serving communities north of Boston. The project also includes coordinating student volunteer involvement and using grant funds to purchase priority items identified by the organization. Through this initiative, Mandy is supporting local animal welfare efforts while creating meaningful leadership and community service opportunities for students.
Two Knights Sign Athletic Commitments to Regis College
On Thursday, February 12, Northeast celebrated the college signing of two student-athletes who will continue their education and athletic careers at Regis College. Phil McGann, an Electrical student from Woburn, will join the swim and dive team, and Larissa De Sousa Mota, a Dental Assisting student from Malden, will join the cross country team. Congratulations to Phil and Larissa on this exciting accomplishment as they take the next step in their academic and athletic journeys.
The photos below were taken by sophomore Noah DiPiero (Auto Body, Saugus).
Northeast Boys Basketball and Boys Hockey Qualify for MIAA State Tournament
The Northeast Knights Boys Basketball and Boys Hockey teams have secured spots in the MIAA Division 4 State Tournament after each reached 10 wins this season, with regular-season games still remaining. Congratulations to both teams on this accomplishment and best of luck as they close out the regular season and prepare for tournament play.
Celebrating School Resource Officer Appreciation Day
National SRO Appreciation Day is Sunday, February 15. At Northeast, we recognize the important role our School Resource Officer plays and extend our gratitude to Officer Mike Pietrantonio for his dedicated service to our community. A Wakefield Police Officer and proud Northeast alumnus from the Class of 1999, Officer Pietrantonio fosters positive relationships with students and staff while helping to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment. We appreciate his commitment to Northeast.
Culinary Wins First Place at Revere Chili Cook Off
On Saturday, February 7, Northeast Culinary earned 1st Place at the 3rd Annual Revere Beach Winter Wonderland Chili Cook Off Competition. Representing Northeast were Culinary Instructor Chef Elam and juniors Raymond Kamer (Revere) and Jesus Perez Guzman (Chelsea), whose chili received the most votes to capture the top honor. Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement.
Pictured below from left to right are Chef Elam, Raymond Kamer, and Jesus Perez Guzman.
Carpentry Students Continue Structural Work on Mock House
Carpentry students continued work on the Mock House, located on the upper field, completing installation of all structural beams and beginning to set the floor joists in place. Students demonstrated strong teamwork and careful attention to safety as they advanced through these key structural phases of the project.
Electrical, Plumbing, and Metal Fabrication Students Advance Food Truck Project
Electrical seniors recently completed the wiring for the Northeast Culinary food truck. In collaboration with the Plumbing and Metal Fabrication departments, students converted the truck’s appliances from gas to electric. Upgrades included installing a new hot water tank, flow pump, and electric cooktop. This project highlights strong collaboration and technical expertise across multiple shops.
Culinary Sophomores Record New Episode of Northeast Cooks
Sophomore Culinary students Francisco Pineda (Chelsea), Nevaeh Eaton (Revere), Mailee Meng (Saugus), and Nevaeh Muniz (Revere) recently recorded another episode of Northeast Cooks at Revere TV. The episode highlights their culinary skills and features a lesson on preparing red velvet cheesecake brownies.
Click the image below to watch.
Auto Tech Students Strengthen Skills with Brake System Training
The Automotive Technology program is utilizing two ATech brake trainers, each equipped with a fully functioning automotive brake system, to strengthen instruction in hydraulic brake systems. The trainers allow students to observe system components in action while developing a deeper understanding of brake operation and safety. Through practice in diagnostics, measurement, and proper service procedures, students are building the technical skills and confidence necessary for success in the automotive industry.
Intramurals Begin Tuesday, February 24, 2026
🏅 Dates: Tuesday, February 24 - Thursday, March 12
✅ Reminder: All students must sign in and be dressed appropriately to participate
Spring Athletics Registration Open
Students interested in trying out for or participating in a spring sport, beginning Monday, March 16, must meet eligibility requirements, register online through Arbiter, and have a current physical (within the last 13 months) on file with the Athletics Office. Families are encouraged to upload their student's physical documentation directly to Arbiter.
The Spring Athletics Parent Night will be held on Wednesday, March 18, at 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria.
For more information on Knights Athletics, visit the NEMT website and select Athletics under the Departments tab.
For any questions, please contact Athletic Director Donald Heres:
Professional Development - No School - Monday, March 2, 2026
Monday, March 2, is a scheduled full-day professional development day for staff. There will be no school for students. Enjoy the long weekend.
End of Trimester 2 - Friday, March 6, 2026
Friday, March 6 marks the end of the second trimester. Families are encouraged to have frequent conversations about their student’s learning and development. Please do not hesitate to contact your student’s teacher(s), school counselor, or dean with questions or concerns.
Report cards will be available to view in the Aspen portal on Friday, March 13.
As a reminder, students and families should log in to Aspen daily to monitor student attendance and grades. Families in need of Aspen support should contact us at nex2@northeastmetrotech.com.
Healthy Living Assembly (Grade 12) - Thursday, March 12, 2026
On Thursday, March 12, Grade 12 students will attend a healthy living assembly featuring Dr. Farhan Naeem, a Research Fellow at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). The presentation will explore how everyday choices impact physical, emotional, and mental well-being, with a focus on prevention, self-awareness, and the effects of addiction, including substance use and excessive electronic/media use. Students will also learn practical coping strategies and healthy alternatives that promote balance and long-term wellness. This assembly reflects our continued commitment to supporting student well-being and informed decision-making. Families with questions, or who prefer that their student not participate, may contact Social Emotional Counselor Jamie Toomey at jtoomey@northeastmetrotech.com.
MCAS Grade 10 Testing Information
In March, Grade 10 students will take their first of two MCAS tests. Throughout the year, students in the Class of 2028 have engaged in learning activities designed to prepare them for the ELA and Mathematics MCAS tests. To further support their success, students are strongly encouraged to complete the online practice tests.
In the weeks leading up to the ELA MCAS test, Grade 10 English teachers will share information about testing procedures and preparation strategies. Students will be reminded to get eight hours of sleep each night, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive at school before 7:45 a.m. so they are not rushed and have ample time to get settled. The use of electronic devices, including cell phones and smartwatches, is strictly prohibited during testing. If used, scores will be invalidated. Families are encouraged to discuss these guidelines with students. Most importantly, we wish Grade 10 students the best as they demonstrate their learning.
Participation in MCAS testing remains required under state and federal law. Assessment results will be used for school and district accountability purposes, as well as for eligibility for scholarships and recognitions such as the Adams Scholarship, the Stanley Z. Koplik Certificate of Mastery, and the State Seal of Biliteracy.
The law change enacted in December 2024 did not change the requirement for students to participate in MCAS testing. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) will continue to use participation rates, achievement, and growth data as part of its annual district and school accountability system.
While students are no longer required to pass the MCAS to graduate, they must still earn a Competency Determination (CD) and meet all local graduation requirements as outlined in the Program of Studies.
Important Reminders for Grade 10 MCAS Testing:
✅ If your Chromebook is damaged, turn it in to the Tech Office as soon as possible.
✅ Bring your fully charged Chromebook to school each day.
✅ Ask your English and math teachers questions about MCAS testing.
✅ Practice online at home to familiarize yourself with the testing format.
For any questions regarding MCAS testing, please contact Joseph O’Brien, test coordinator, at 📧 jobrien@northeastmetrotech.com or 📞(781) 246-0810 ext. 1649.
Esports Club Spring Season - Join the Fun!
The Esports Club meets every Wednesday and Thursday throughout the spring season, now through March 5 (pending playoffs), in Room A124. Students can participate in organized tournaments or drop in to play and connect with other gamers.
For questions, contact Esports Advisors Mr. Debole at 📧 adebole@northeastmetrotech.com
or Mr. Gibbs at 📧 dgibbs@northeastmetrotech.com.
2025 School and District Report Cards
The federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires districts to annually distribute school report cards to the families of all students enrolled in each of the district’s schools, regardless of the school’s Title I status or accountability determination. Report cards must include assessment and accountability results, teacher qualifications, and other information related to district and school performance. In addition to the report cards themselves, ESSA requires that districts notify all parents of students enrolled in Title I schools that they may request, and the district will provide, certain information related to the professional qualifications of their student's classroom teacher(s). Please click here to read more about the district’s report card.
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.
Freshman/Sophomore Semi-Formal Tickets On Sale
The Freshman/Sophomore Semi-Formal, "A Night in New York," will be held on Friday, March 6, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Northeast Cafeteria. This event is open to current Northeast Grade 9 and 10 students only. Tickets are $30 and will be on sale February 2 through February 27 in Business Technology (Room A120). Expectations are outlined in the NEMT Event Contract.
Important Reminders:
➤ A signed event contract must be submitted to the student’s class advisor to attend.
➤ Tickets will not be sold at the door.
➤ Students must present their Northeast student ID for entry.
➤ Students should dress to impress.
➤ Upon request, students may be asked to empty their pockets and have their belongings checked.
➤ Bags and backpacks are not permitted.
➤ No entry after 6:30 p.m. and no early dismissal before 8:00 p.m. unless preapproved by a dean.
➤ All school rules apply, as outlined in the Student Handbook.
➤ Friday is a school day; students are expected to attend school in order to attend the event.
➤ We ask that all parents/guardians plan to pick up their students promptly at the end of the event. Please plan to arrive at Northeast before 8:30 p.m.
For questions, please contact Class of 2028 Advisor Ms. Broome at mbroome@northeastmetrotech.com or Class of 2029 Advisor Mr. Sullivan at psullivan@northeastmetrotech.com.
We look forward to an enjoyable evening with our Class of 2028 and Class of 2029 students.
🗓️ Upcoming Events 🗓️
February
February Break - No School: Monday, February 16 through Friday, February 20
SkillsUSA District 3 Qualifying Event: Wednesday, February 25
SADD American Red Cross Blood Drive: Tuesday, March 10
Winter Athletics Banquet: Wednesday, March 11
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
Spring Athletics Parent Night: Wednesday, March 18
MCAS ELA Grade 10 Test, Session 1: Tuesday, March 24
MCAS ELA Grade 10 Test, Session 2: Wednesday, March 25
April
Junior Prom at Hilton Boston North: Thursday, April 2
Good Friday - No School: Friday, April 3
2 Hour Delay - Professional Development: Wednesday, April 8
Department Meetings: Monday, April 13
Multicultural Fair: Wednesday, April 15
Progress Reports (Grade 12) - Trimester 3: Friday, April 17
April Break - No School: Monday, April 20 through Friday, April 24
DECA International Career Development Conference: Saturday, April 25 through Wednesday, April 29
State Seal of Biliteracy Recognition Ceremony: Thursday, April 30
SkillsUSA State Leadership & Skills Conference: Thursday, April 30 through Saturday, May 2
📢 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.
📧 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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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:
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
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.
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.
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:
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.