Skip to main content

Northeast Metro Tech: Weekly Newsletter - 5/29/26

Posted Date: 05/29/26 (12:54 PM)


NEMT

Weekly Newsletter - 5/29/26

12 dots

Gold Week: The week of Monday, June 1, 2026

Grades 9 & 11: Academics
Grades 10 & 12: CTE Shops
Remember to follow the dress code.
➡️NEMT Website
 
Class of 2026
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. 
 

Knight of the Week - Senior Spotlight

Knight of the Week

Scott Johnson

Hometown: Woburn

CTE Shop: HVAC

Favorite class: Physical Education with Mr. Sweeney

One skill/lesson you’ve learned at Northeast that you’ll take with you: At Northeast, I have learned that when you work hard and do your best, good things will happen.

A person who has inspired you to be your best: My dad inspired me to be my best because he also is in the trades. He inspired me to go to Northeast and pushed me toward a positive future through his experiences and support. 

Favorite quote: "You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take." — Wayne Gretzky

Plans after graduation: I was hired by my co-op job as an apprentice with Dodge Cooling & Heating. After graduation, I also plan to go to night school for my sheet metal license.
 

Future Teacher Signing Day

On Tuesday, May 26, Northeast recognized students who have made the decision to pursue careers in education during its Future Teacher Signing Day ceremony. The event celebrated the next generation of educators while emphasizing the importance of the teaching profession and recognizing members of the Class of 2026 who intend to become teachers.

Congratulations to the following students:
  • Brooke Austin (Early Childhood Education): Framingham State University - Early Childhood Education
  • Solmariz Calderon (Culinary): North Shore Community College - Early Education
  • Eleni Culleton (Electrical): Merrimack College - Education
  • Diamond Johnson (Health Assisting): Lesley University - Early Childhood Education
  • Alexa Kepple (Early Childhood Education): Merrimack College - Elementary Education
  • Moxie Lonks (Early Childhood Education): Salt Lake Community College - Elementary Education Moderate Disabilities
  • Victoria Moreno (Early Childhood Education): Merrimack College - Elementary Education Moderate Disabilities
  • Micayla Neville (Early Childhood Education): North Shore Community College - Elementary Education
  • Valentine Romero-Portillo (Early Childhood Education): Boston University - Mathematics & Math Education
  • Gabriella Shea (Cosmetology): Coastal Carolina University - Elementary Education
students
students and staff
 

Senior Class Enjoys Field Day

On Thursday, May 28, the Class of 2026 enjoyed the beautiful weather and a fantastic Senior Class Field Day. Students had a great time outdoors, playing games, and making memories with classmates as their senior year comes to a close.
field day 1
field day 2
field day 3
field day 4
 

Senior Jakeline Fuentes Lopez Recognized at State House

On Thursday, May 28, Jakeline Fuentes Lopez, a Dental Assisting senior from Chelsea, was recognized as one of only ten students statewide to receive the 2026 Jeff Perrotti LGBTQ+ Leadership Award at the Massachusetts State House. A student advocate and member of the Equality Club, Jakeline received the award in recognition of her dedication and hard work promoting a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all students. The award honors student leaders who demonstrate a strong commitment to advocacy, inclusion, and supporting their school communities. Congratulations to Jakeline on this outstanding accomplishment and well-deserved recognition.
Jakeline Fuentes Lopez 1
Jakeline Fuentes Lopez 2
 

Club Members Participate in Healthy Youth Summit

On Thursday, May 28, members of Northeast clubs participated in the Healthy Youth Summit at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, hosted by Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. The event was designed to help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive, with a focus on building healthy relationships, fostering personal growth, and becoming positive community leaders. Students participated in interactive workshops and explored a resource fair that promoted strong, respectful connections with peers, family, and community members. Through these experiences, they gained valuable strategies for navigating challenges, making healthy choices, and positively influencing those around them.
Healthy youth summit 1
Healthy youth summit 2
 

Students Attend Light Foundation Leadership Conference

On Thursday, May 28, Northeast students attended the Light Foundation Leadership Conference at Bridgewater State University. Throughout the day, students participated in breakout sessions focused on leadership development, collaborated with peers from across the region, and gained valuable insight from speakers and mentors. The conference emphasized the importance of teamwork, perseverance, communication, and personal growth while encouraging students to develop the skills needed to become effective leaders in their schools and communities.
Light Foundation
 

Auto Tech Students Prepare Racecar for Competition

Auto Tech students are preparing an official racecar for upcoming racing events, applying the same skills and principles used in servicing passenger vehicles on the road. Because of the vehicle’s design, all major systems are easily accessible, allowing students to inspect and evaluate the brakes, steering, suspension, engine, and driveline. Students identify and address any concerns to help ensure the vehicle is safe, reliable, and race ready. The project has been a great hands-on learning experience, and students have enjoyed the opportunity to work on a real racecar.
Auto tech 1
Auto tech 2
 

Alessandra Sacco Recognized with Second Chance Cars Award

Congratulations to Alessandra Sacco, a senior in the Auto Collision program from Melrose, on receiving the Second Chance Cars Student Employment Fund Award. This award recognizes hardworking students who have overcome personal and economic challenges and provides support to help them pursue careers in the automotive field. Alessandra’s perseverance, positive attitude, and strong work ethic have made her a deserving recipient of this recognition. She can be seen in the photo below with Auto Body Department Head Bob MacGregor.
Alessandra Sacco
 

Drafting & Design Seniors Focus on Sustainability and Green Technology

Drafting & Design seniors recently presented their final “Design For A Cause” projects, showcasing architectural and mechanical designs centered on sustainability and green technology. Instead of traditional poster presentations, students created professional trifold brochures modeled after materials commonly featured at design trade shows. The projects highlighted students’ research, technical skills, and creative approaches to designing a more sustainable future.
Drafting and design senior projects
 

Culinary Sophomores Record New Episode of Northeast Cooks

Sophomore Culinary students Za-Lea Baker (Revere) and Seren Frye (Revere) recently recorded the final episode of the year of Northeast Cooks at Revere TV. The episode showcases their culinary skills and features a demonstration on preparing a Cubano sandwich with house-smoked pork loin.

Click the image below to watch.
Culinary
 

Student Parking Update for Juniors - Beginning Monday, June 1

With seniors no longer in the building after Friday, May 29, parking on both Gold and Black weeks will be available to Grade 11 students for the remainder of the school year beginning Monday, June 1. Interested juniors should complete the Student Parking Application Form to be added to the waitlist. Students on the waitlist who are in good standing (as approved by their dean) will be contacted in the order the form was submitted to purchase a parking sticker for $5 in the Business Office, until all spaces are filled. We aim to make as many spaces in our lot available to students as possible.

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.

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.
 
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!
 

🚨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.
 
chromebook

Chromebook Collection Dates

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

  • 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
 

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
  • 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.
 
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