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Northeast Metro Tech: Weekly Newsletter - 5/22/26

Posted Date: 05/22/26 (01:25 PM)


NEMT

Weekly Newsletter - 5/22/26

12 dots

Black Week: The week of Monday, May 25, 2026

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

Memorial Day - No School - Monday, May 25, 2026

On Memorial Day, we honor and remember the courageous U.S. military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. We encourage everyone to take time this weekend to pay tribute to those we have lost in defense of the freedoms we hold dear. We wish all faculty, staff, students, and families an enjoyable and restful long weekend.
 

Knight of the Week - Senior Spotlight

Gustavo Vasquez Artiga

Gustavo Vasquez Artiga

Hometown: Chelsea

CTE Shop: Design and Visual

Favorite class: Honors English 12 with Ms. Flint

One skill/lesson you’ve learned at Northeast that you’ll take with you: In Design & Visual, Mr. Peluso helped teach us how to plan things out from the starting vision to where we want the project to end up. 

A person who has inspired you to be your best: My mom inspires me to be my best self by encouraging me to do my work and to stay on track.

Favorite quote: "A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new." - Albert Einstein

Plans after graduation: I plan to go to Massachusetts College of Art & Design to study animation. 
 

Mandy Lan Named U.S. Presidential Scholars Semifinalist

Congratulations to Mandy Lan, a senior in Design & Visual from Wakefield, on being named a semifinalist in the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

Mandy is one of only ten students from Massachusetts selected as semifinalists and one of 627 students chosen from a pool of more than 6,500 candidates nationwide. Her application will now advance to the final round of the highly selective national program.

This prestigious recognition reflects Mandy’s hard work, talent, and dedication throughout her time at Northeast. We congratulate her on this outstanding accomplishment and wish her continued success in the final selection process.
Mandy Lan
Mandy Lan
 

Class of 2026 Enjoys a Memorable Senior Prom

The Northeast Senior Prom, held on Thursday, May 21, at Danversport in Danvers, was a wonderful event, with students enjoying a memorable evening together. Thank you to all of the chaperones for their support, and to Senior Class Advisor Dawon Dicks for organizing such a great night.
senior prom
chaperones
senior prom
sr prom
 

Northeast Boys and Girls Lacrosse Teams Qualify for MIAA State Tournament

The Northeast Knights Girls Lacrosse team has qualified for the MIAA Division 3 State Tournament for the first time in program history. The Knights will travel to Hudson High School on Tuesday, May 26 for a 6:00 p.m. opening round matchup.

The Boys Lacrosse team has also qualified for the MIAA Division 3 State Tournament and is awaiting the release of the tournament brackets next week.

Congratulations to both teams on this outstanding accomplishment, and best of luck as they prepare for tournament play. Click here to view the Spring 2026 tournament brackets.
Girls Lacrosse Team
Boys Lacrosse
 

Auto Students Donate Another Vehicle with Second Chance Cars

On Thursday, May 21, a deserving recipient received a refurbished vehicle through Second Chance Cars, an organization that helps provide affordable transportation to individuals entering the workforce. Since 2020, Northeast’s Auto Collision and Auto Tech programs have partnered with Second Chance Cars to support community members in need. Students inspect and repair mechanical systems, restore bodywork, and complete full detailing to prepare each vehicle for donation. This partnership provides valuable hands-on experience for students while making a meaningful impact in the community.
Second Chance Cars
 

Curious Creatures Visits Little Knights Learning Lab

On Monday, May 18, preschool students in the Little Knights Learning Lab enjoyed a special visit from Curious Creatures. Students met a variety of animals, including a boa constrictor, rabbit, ferret, and leopard gecko, while learning about each animal’s habitat, diet, and unique characteristics. High school students in the Early Childhood Education program joined the experience as well, creating a fun and interactive opportunity for everyone to explore, ask questions, and get up close with the creatures.
ECE 1
ECE 2
ECE 4
ECE 2
 

Knights’ Sparks Custom Metal Works Items Available for Purchase

Knights’ Sparks Custom Metal Works, one of Northeast’s new DECA School-Based Enterprises operated through the Metal Fabrication shop, has handcrafted metal items available for purchase. Featured products include end tables, wine racks, hangers, and shelving units. See the flyer below for available items. For questions, contact Metal Fabrication Department Head Steve Boyd at sboyd@northeastmetrotech.com.
Knight's Sparks
 
Hoodie

NE Things Apparel Sale - Don’t Miss Out

NE Things is having an apparel sale with great deals on Northeast gear.

Shop online, at graduation (June 4 at Melrose High School), or in the school store.

Highlights: Hoodies $25 • Crewnecks $20 • Tees from $12 • Sherpas $25 • Blankets $25

Visit nethings.square.site for more info. Don’t miss out!
 

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to prioritize the well-being of our students, staff, and the entire Northeast school community. Throughout the month, the School Counseling Department will offer activities and resources to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health. As a school community, it is important that we continue to support one another in caring for mental health and seeking help when needed.

👉 Click on the calendar below to view more information.
Mental Health May
 
Class of 2026

Class of 2026 End-of-Year Events

As we approach the end of the school year, we are excited to celebrate the accomplishments of our Class of 2026. Please see the schedule of events below and mark your calendars:

Senior T-shirt & Yearbook Distribution – Tuesday, May 26 | 1:30–2:30 p.m. | Northeast cafeteria
  • Seniors are expected to arrive at the regular time and follow their academic schedule until being called to the cafeteria (1:30–2:30 p.m.).
Graduation Practice – Wednesday, May 27 | 7:45–11:00 a.m. | Northeast upper field
  • Seniors are expected to arrive at the regular time, report to homeroom, and attend first period before being called to practice (9:00–11:00 a.m.). Seniors may leave following practice; those who remain will follow their academic schedule for the remainder of the day.
Field Day – Thursday, May 28 | 7:45–11:00 a.m. | Northeast upper field
  • Seniors are expected to arrive at the regular time, report to homeroom, and attend first period before being called to Field Day (9:00–11:00 a.m.). Seniors may leave following the event; those who remain will follow their academic schedule for the remainder of the day.
Senior Sign-Out & Breakfast – Friday, May 29 | 7:45–11:00 a.m. | Northeast cafeteria and library
  • Seniors will receive their cap and gown and records during this event. They are expected to arrive at the regular time, report to homeroom, and attend first period before being called to the cafeteria. Seniors are expected to exit the building after signing out.
Graduation Ceremony – Thursday, June 4 | 6:00 p.m. | Melrose High School
  • While the event is not ticketed, graduates are kindly asked to invite no more than four guests, as seating is limited and we want to ensure the comfort of all attendees.
Graduation Rain Date – Sunday, June 7 | 10:00 a.m. | Melrose High School

We look forward to celebrating these milestones with our seniors and their families. Congratulations to the Class of 2026.
 
chromebook

Chromebook Collection Dates

School-issued Chromebooks will be collected on the following dates:

  • Grade 12: Tuesday, May 26
  • Grades 9-11: Monday, June 15 and Tuesday, June 16
Students are expected to return both their Chromebook and charger. Fees will be incurred for damaged or lost devices.

For questions regarding Chromebook collection, please contact Administrator of Technology and Facilities Ed Lussier:
📧 elussier@northeastmetrotech.com | 📞 (781) 246-0810 ext. 1672
 

Grade 9 MCAS Science Review and Preparation

To help students prepare for the Grade 9 Science (Introductory Physics) MCAS on Tuesday, June 2 and Wednesday, June 3, science classes will participate in focused preparation during the week of Monday, May 18. In addition, MCAS Science Blitz after-school sessions will be offered in the library, providing Grade 9 students with targeted review, practice, and test-taking strategies designed to strengthen their skills and build confidence before the exam. All Grade 9 students are encouraged to attend.

In-Class Preparation:
  • Monday, May 18 through Friday, May 22
  • Monday, June 1
After-School Blitz Schedule (Library):
  • Tuesday, May 26 through Thursday, May 28: 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
  • Monday, May 18: 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Snacks will be provided, and late buses will be available at 3:30 p.m. for transportation home.
 

🚨Grade 11 Students in Shop - Tuesday, June 2 & Wednesday, June 3🚨

To accomodate MCAS Grade 9 Science (Introductory Physics) testing on Tuesday, June 2, and Wednesday, June 3, Grade 11 students will report to shop for the two days. Please note the following:

  • Grade 9 students will test in the morning, then follow their academic schedule once testing is complete.
  • Grade 10 students will report to shops as it is a Gold Week.
  • Grade 11 students will report to shops. Students on co-op may report to their placements; those who report to co-op will have their absences from shop excused.
 

MCAS Grade 9 Science (Introductory Physics) Testing Information

In June, MCAS Science Tests for Grade 9 students will be administered. Throughout the year, students in the Class of 2029 have engaged in learning activities designed to prepare them for the MCAS Introductory Physics Test. To further support their success, students are strongly encouraged to complete the online practice tests.

In the weeks leading up to the testing, Grade 9 science 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, earbuds, 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 9 students the best as they demonstrate their learning.

MCAS Grade 9 Test Dates (Statewide Testing Schedule)
📌Introductory Physics Session 1 - Tuesday, June 2
📌Introductory Physics Session 2 - Wednesday, June 3

MCAS Participation & Graduation Requirements
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 9 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 science teachers questions about MCAS testing.
✅ Review information about test design and development.
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.
 
Class of 2026

Northeast Metro Tech Class of 2026 Graduation - Thursday, June 4, 2026

The fifty-sixth commencement ceremony of Northeast Metro Tech will be held at Fred Green Memorial Field at Melrose High School (360 Lynn Fells Parkway, Melrose, MA 02176) on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Please carefully review the graduation information detailed in this document to prepare for the celebration of our Class of 2026. 
 

School Calendar Update: Early Release - Thursday, June 18, 2026

Please note that Thursday, June 18 will be an early release day for all students to provide faculty and staff with time to plan for the move to the new building. The academic blocks for the day will be F, A, and C. All students will be dismissed at 11:15 a.m.
Early Release
 
Last day

Last Day of School - Monday, June 22, 2026

The official last day of the 2025-2026 school year is Monday, June 22. Please note that it will be an early release day for all students. The academic blocks for the day will be A, B, and C. All students will be dismissed at 11:15 a.m.
Early Release

🗓️ Upcoming Events 🗓️

May
  • Memorial Day - No School: Monday, May 25
  • Chromebook Collection (Grade 12): Tuesday, May 26
  • Senior T-shirt & Yearbook Distribution: Tuesday, May 26
  • Graduation Practice: Wednesday, May 27
  • Senior Class Field Day: Thursday, May 28
  • Senior Sign-Out & Breakfast: Friday, May 29
  • Class of 2030 Placement Tests: Saturday, May 30
June
  • Faculty Meeting: Monday, June 1
  • Scholarship Night: Monday, June 1
  • SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference: Monday, June 1 through Saturday, June 6
  • MCAS Science (Introductory Physics) Grade 9 Test, Session 1: Tuesday, June 2
  • MCAS Science (Introductory Physics) Grade 9 Test, Session 2: Wednesday, June 3
  • Class of 2026 Graduation at Melrose High School: Thursday, June 4
  • Department Meetings: Monday, June 8
  • Spring Athletics Banquet: Wednesday, June 10
  • Co-op Ends for Juniors: Friday, June 12
  • Departmental Meetings: Monday, June 15
  • Chromebook Collection (Grades 9-11): Monday, June 15 & Tuesday, June 16
  • Early Release for Students: Thursday, June 18
  • Juneteenth - No School: Friday, June 19
  • Early Release for Students: Monday, June 22
  • End of Trimester 3: Monday, June 22
  • Last Day of School: Monday, June 22

📢 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 Open for Customers

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.
 

SUN Bucks Information for Families

The online application for SUN Bucks (formerly Summer EBT) is open. This federal food benefit program provides $120 per eligible school-aged child to help families purchase food during the summer months when school is not in session.

Click here to view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about SUN Bucks, including eligibility information. We encourage families to review their eligibility and apply if needed. Additional information is available on the Northeast Metro Tech website under Departments → Food Services → SUN Bucks.

For questions regarding SUN Bucks, please contact Director of Finance James Picone:
📧 jpicone@northeastmetrotech.com | 📞 (781) 246-0810 ext. 1628
SUN Bucks
 
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 throughout the year 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 Available for 2026-27 College and Career Schools Applicants

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is 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