Page 4 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 2020 EPS launches Technology-to-Go initiative for distance learning By Christopher Roberson T here was a steady line of cars in the community parking lot on Lower Broadway as teachers, school officials and volunteers distributed thousands of Chromebooks to launch the Technology-to-Go initiative for the Everett Public Schools. The initiative is part of the district’s overall distance learning program. Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani said 1,100 Chromebooks were handed out on March 31 and that the laptops would be availWhittier School Teacher Erin Nigro (left) and Madeline English School Teacher Maureen Morelli (Advocate Photo by Christopher Roberson) able for pick up until April 3. “We want to make sure that everyone has access,” she said, adding that Comcast is offering two months of free Internet service for Everett students. In addition to the five pick up days, Tahiliani said 500 Chromebooks are scheduled for home delivery. All told, the district has ordered 7,400 Chromebooks to match Everett’s student population. “Next year, we want to go Madeline English School teachers Jessica Salem (left) and Ashley DeFilippo. Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. Attorney-at-Law ~ Since 1989 ~ * Corporate Litigation * Criminal/Civil * MCAD * Zoning/Land Court * Wetlands Litigation * Workmen’s Compensation * Landlord/Tenant Litigation * Real Estate Law * Construction Litigation * Tax Lein * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 Lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net Law Offices of Terrence W. Kennedy 512 Broadway, Everett • Criminal Defense • Personal Injury • Medical Malpractice Tel: (617) 387-9809 Cell: (617) 308-8178 twkennedylaw@gmail.com (Advocate Photo by Christopher Roberson) Cars were lined up on March 31 in the community parking lot on Lower Broadway to pick up Chromebooks, which will be used in the district’s distance learning program. (Photo Courtesy of the Everett Public Schools) one-to-one with the Chromebooks anyway,” said Tahiliani. Regarding cybersecurity, she said distance learning will be conducted using Google Hangouts in order to avoid the recent problems that other districts have experienced by using Zoom Video Communications. “Zoom is supposed to be 18plus,” she said, adding that the district has not authorized that particular platform for instructional purposes. Tahiliani said distance learning, which is set to begin on April 6, will largely consist of teachers posting activities every Monday. “Right now, it is going to be enrichment only,” she said. In addition, Tahiliani said that while distance learning is strongly encouraged, it will not be a requirement. “We don’t want this to be an added point of stress,” she said. City creates virtual art gallery M ayor Carlo DeMaria, the Everett Cultural Council and the City of Everett are proud to announce the creation of a virtual art gallery. This is the second installation of art from local and regional artists that was scheduled to be on display at Everett City Hall from April 1 to May 21. Cultural Council Coordinator Maria Josefson worked closely with artists to upload their work online to be viewed virtually. “We are at a moment in time where everyone is searching for something positive, and art has the ability to lift our spirits,” said DeMaria. “I’m happy these wonderful artists are giving residents of Everett something beautiful to look forward to.” The theme “Open Spaces, Favorite Places” asked artists to reflect on the open spaces in their lives. Favorite open spaces – places that spark thoughts, calm the mind, rejuvenate, energize and inspire; favorite places that lift you up or remind you of your place in this world. “While the Everett City Hall remains closed for the foreseeable future, the world of virtual living has been expanding by leaps and bounds,” said Josefson. “These uncertain times have been a hardship for us all to various degrees, so I thought the idea of sharing this call for art round’s beautiful submissions focused on nature, open spaces that bring comfort and enliven the sensART GALLERY | SEE PAGE 6
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