Paw Prints Family Newsletter
Dear Paw Prints Family,
I am delighted to welcome you to the month of February, a time of renewed energy and excitement here at our wonderful school. As we embrace the spirit of Black History Month, I am eager to share a bit of the history behind this important commemoration.
Black History Month has its roots in the vision of an influential figure named Carter G. Woodson. A distinguished author and the second African American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University (behind W.E.B. DuBois), Woodson believed passionately in the necessity of incorporating Black history into our educational curriculum. Recognizing the vital contributions of Black individuals in political, economic, technological, and social realms, Woodson championed the idea that these stories deserved a prominent place in our schools.
In 1926, Woodson initiated the concept of Black History Week, to be observed during the second week of February, strategically aligning with the birthdays of two monumental figures in American history – Frederick Douglass on February 14 and Abraham Lincoln on February 12. This week was a dedicated time to highlight the achievements and struggles of the Black community.
Fast forward to 1976, and Black History Week evolved into Black History Month, officially recognized on a national level. Today, it stands as a poignant reminder for us to reflect on the excellence and challenges faced by Black individuals throughout history. It serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience, guiding us as we strive to create an inclusive and equitable community.
As we navigate through the month, I encourage each of you to take a moment for personal reflection. Consider the impact of Black history on our collective narrative and appreciate the strength that comes from embracing diversity. Let us celebrate the richness of our shared history and continue to foster an environment where every voice is heard and valued.
Wishing you all a February filled with appreciation and a renewed commitment to unity.
Warm regards,
Principal Williams
In the event of a school closing or delay, an announcement will be made across all primary GNBVTHS social media outlets, which includes Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, and GNBVT app. In addition to social media, a phone call, e-mail and text will be sent to parents and guardians regarding school closing or delay.
Local radio and TV stations will broadcast announcements when school is closed or when the opening of school is delayed. When there is a delay, buses will run one or two hours late.
In the event of a delay, there will be no placement. Off-campus projects will be determined on a case by case basis.
The school will provide announcements regarding school closings, delayed openings or unscheduled early release of students to the following media:
School website
Primary School
Social Media Accounts
WCVB-TV Channel 5
WLNE-TV Channel 6
WHDH-TV Channel 7
WFXT-TV Fox 25 Boston
WBSM Radio AM 1420
WSAR Radio AM 1480
9th Grade SBIRT Screenings
As shared in the last edition of PAWPRINTS, Starting in the beginning of March, GNBRVTHS will be conducting state-mandated SBIRT screenings for our 9th grade students. The Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) screening process focuses on the use of alcohol, marijuana, nicotine (vaping) and other substances, along with the importance of making healthy decisions. This screening consists of a series of questions only. The goal of this screening is to let our students know that we are available to them to discuss any questions or concerns related to substance use and assist them in obtaining support and treatment if needed to address substance abuse.
All SBIRT screenings are conducted confidentially by our trained school nurses and counselors in private one-on-one sessions. This program focuses on prevention, which includes healthy choices. If needed students are connected with school counselors or other community agencies for support and education.
While the Department of Public Health requires schools to carry out this screening, please know that this is VOLUNTARY. As with any school screening, you have the right to opt out. An informational/opt-out letter will be distributed to you in February between 2/6-2/9 during your academic cycle. Please share this with your parent/guardian. For those parents/guardians who do not wish for their student to participate, there is a signature line and opt-out section to complete.
We encourage healthy choices and we are here to provide support and education. Together, GNBRVTHS and parents/guardians can make a difference in your life and we are all here for you.
For any questions please reach out to the nursing staff in our Health Center:
Sarah Caggiano, RN ext 791 Casey Clarke, RN ext 661 Ursula Crowell, RN ext 205 Jaala Duarte,RN 204
In this month we look to raise awareness of cardiovascular/heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US. Living a heart healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Here are some steps that can be taken to reduce your risk:
Get enough quality sleep
Maintain a healthy weight
Eat better
Be more active
Stop smoking
Control cholesterol, even at a young age cholesterol levels can be elevated and should be checked by your doctor
Manage blood sugar
Manage stress
Control blood pressure, this is not typical in young adults but if your doctor identifies an issue it is important to follow their recommendations
Practice self-care and find social support
Reach out to our nursing staff if you have questions about potential risk factors for yourself or your family members. We are here to help and provide education.
The After Prom Committee has the following events to help fund the 2024 After Prom:
○ After Prom Raffle Calendar - Selling now until February 29th
○ 31 days of possible winnings!
○ Could win 2 tickets to the 2024 Graduation
○ If you win, your name will be placed back into the drawing pool.
○ We will announce the winner on the GNBVT After Prom Facebook page with the last name first initial and call the winner directly. ○ Calendars can be purchased through GoFan or by contacting 998-3321 ext: 244 or 300
Spring Sports Registration is now open! Scan the QR code or use the link below to register today.
https://students.arbitersports.com/programs/2023-24-spring-athletics-registration
To order shop uniforms, please use the link to place an order with Prime Time Sports Company between February 5th to 12th.
https://ptsteam.com/store/index.php?route=product/category&path=5281&limit=50
We are excited to share that GNBVT is rolling out Remind schoolwide! If you're not already familiar with Remind, it's a classroom communication tool that makes it easy to stay involved with your child's learning. Remind is free to use, and you'll be able to get and send messages on any device—even a simple text message from your phone! We encourage families to check out this guide to get tips on how to use Remind. We're excited to use Remind to make connecting with your family more engaging!
ADDRESS:
Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School
1121 Ashley Blvd
New Bedford, MA 02740
508.998.3321
INTERNET/SOCIAL MEDIA:
WEBSITE: www.gnbvt.edu
INSTAGRAM: @gnbvoctechhighschool
X: @GNBVocTechHS