Page 20 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2022 EXCELLENCE | FROM PAGE 8 just as any... that kind flying squirrel who was brave to reach out, to a Lotus in need of some help. “So you see young Orchid, I found friends and family! You can too, just don’t be afraid to be … yourself young Orchid through and through…” And if you ever need it, I’ll be a friend to you. The Kite and the Line By Gabby De Gouveia I am a creature of the clouds: As boundless and untold as the ends of Rainbows you’ve once scowered to find. You are a creature of the Earth: The perfect sphere that fills my view. You became the ground, the order, the breath – The very being of me has since flowed from you. Refrain and I’ll float away. Part with me and you will fall. We are connected, and such has been, since we’ve gone through it all. There is no danger between us, for we are always safe. For when we fight, we fight with love. For us, the heavens will always shine above. So till the end of time, and for as long as we’re kind, I am your Kite, and you are my Line. Opportunities for staff In its continued efforts to recruit teachers, the EPS is being diligent to look at an obvious and vital place: the Everett Public Schools. “We have talented and dedicated staff members across all levels of the district,” said Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani. “We have to encourage and support present EPS employees who are interested in taking the steps needed to become a certified teacher. Failure to do so would be a disservice to our students.” This year saw the district launch an Emerging Educators Program for substitute teachers, paraprofessionals and other staff members who are interested in becoming certified teachers. In the first round of mentoring in the fall of 2021, 14 EPS employees participated in a five-part mentor program. Sessions were held virtually in the evenings and featured presentations and question-and-answer sessions led by EPS leaders in special education, English Learners, guidance, equity and curriculum and instruction. Those who completed the course received a $200 voucher to take the MTEL Communication and Literacy Skills test, which is a mandatory step for anyone who wants to be certified to teach in Massachusetts. The 14-person cohort will continue to receive professional mentorship as they pursue a teaching career. CTE Partnerships EHS has launched an exciting partnership with the Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology (BFIT) that enhances and expands the district’s commitment to providing Career and Technical Education opportunities to students. The BFIT partnership allows juniors and seniors to earn certificates and degrees for free while remaining on track to earn EHS diplomas. Currently, a small group of students are enrolled in the Institute’s Electrical Engineering and Automotive Technology programs. In March a second group of students will attend BFIT to pursue health or HVAC training.
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