MS Meeting Recap

MIDDLE SCHOOL MEETING

Dear Middle School Families,

Here's a look at what's happening in the Middle School.

Click here to see the slides from today's Middle School Meeting.

Meeting Recap

Gabe Cohen ‘25, Kayla Toussaint ’25, and Max Levy ‘25 talked about the BVR Student, the importance of knowing and understanding our school’s values, and what the BVR Student means to them. Students will be using advisory time to learn more about each element of the BVR Student.

Ms. Wildes reminded students about the BVR Social Justice Retreat happening on January 29, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. This retreat will be a virtual opportunity for Middle School students to engage in conversations about identity and privilege in relation to social justice topics in a safe and welcoming space. This year's theme will focus on wellness and self-care practices and their relationship to identity work and social justice. During the workshops, our hope is facilitators support the students to work together to share stories, acknowledge differences, and find commonalities—with the aim to build a deeper, more inclusive and committed community. Students received an email with the link to sign up.

Emma Thiebault ‘25 reviewed the Lost and Found process this year: Items found around the school/main building will end up in the plastic bin at the bottom of the GREY stairs near the student lounge. After that bin is full, the items get moved into storage where we sort, number, and photograph the items. All of these items end up in the L+F SLIDESHOW for the community to view. If you see something that is yours, you should email lostandfound@bcdschool.org with your claim number and someone will get back to you to arrange for pick up. If you are looking for any valuables, such as electronics, jewelry, phones, etc. those will go straight to the front desk for safe-keeping—and photos will not be taken. You can still email “lostandfound” to inquire about valuable items lost and someone will get back to you.

Leila and Shirin Sakoulis ‘27 announced the 6th grade Community Action Leader (CALs) event is happening on Tuesday. CALs are making Birthday Wishes packages for children who for a variety of reasons may not be able to afford to have a party.

Nathan Rosario ‘26 announced the virtual AISNE Students of Color Conference happening Saturday, February 6 from 9:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. Nathan said, “Last year, I attended the Middle School Students of Color Conference. One takeaway from last year is that I got to meet the author of New Kid by Jerry Craft. You should attend this conference because it has great opportunities, and it is an interesting way to spend your time”. A form was emailed out today for students to sign up; students can reach out to Ms. Smith with any questions.

Dany Sidman ‘26 and Emme Cohen ‘26 announced surveys all Middle School students will complete next week to give feedback to the teachers. All students will take three surveys that take about 10 mins each.
How engaging is the class?
In your view, what are the teacher's expectations for you in their class?
How connected do you feel to the teacher?

Gabe Cohen '25, Student Council President, announced the Student Council meeting today at 11:25 a.m.

"CREATE: Coding, Robotics, Engineering, Art, Technology, Everything in-between", a student group led by Mr. Guevin from the Research + Design team, met today.

Our three 8th grade yearbook staff, Emma Thiebault, Bailey Litchman, and Skyler Montgomery, announced the yearbook team was meeting today to take a staff picture. They also listed the names of the teachers who have yet to submit a drawing of their headshot for the yearbook. Some of the teachers claimed it was public shaming! Other teachers pointed out it was a pretty large group of teachers who are seriously behind on their homework.

The Fall Afternoon Activities Instrumental Ensemble shared one of their performance pieces, Wake Me Up When September Ends by Green Day. Musicians include Aidan Emmons ‘25, Christian Haas ‘25, Aidan Magel ‘25, Shirin Sakoulis ‘27, and Leila Sakoulis ‘27.

I spoke about the importance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a day to reflect upon Dr. King, his legacy, and the values he embodies, including non-violent protests. I encouraged students to take time to reflect on Dr. King’s messages, and if they are interested in taking actions of service, Ms. Wildes spoke about the many ways we can connect and be of service in our community on Monday. She encouraged students to talk to their families about how they can make this Monday a "day on" together—to celebrate as a day of service—a "day on" rather than a day off. She will be sending out an email with resources and opportunities to volunteer in person and virtually. (A list of service projects happening in MA and Youth Service America.) Students were also encouraged to send her an email (and maybe even a photo!) to share how students and families are giving back.

Associate Director of Middle School

617-738-2780