QRMHS Family Newsletter

Dear Families,

As we enter February, I would like to take this opportunity to celebrate this week which is national Counselor's Appreciation week. I want to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable work our counselors do every single day. This is a time to show gratitude for the critical role they play in supporting not only our students, but also our staff and families.

In a year marked by heightened stress whether related to academic pressures, social-emotional challenges, or the ongoing uncertainty in the world our counselors have truly been a cornerstone of our community. According to recent data from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 1 in 5 students nationwide is struggling with a mental health challenge in 2025. This has only been amplified by the pressures of returning to normalcy in schools post-pandemic, rising concerns about school safety, and the emotional toll of global and local events.

Our counselors have been tirelessly working to:

• Provide emotional support for students facing stress, anxiety, and trauma.
• Guide families through navigating complex academic and social challenges.
• Coordinate interventions for students in crisis, offering both short-term and long-term solutions.
• Deliver preventive programs focused on mental health, resilience, and well-being.
• Advocate for inclusive practices that ensure every student feels seen and supported.

On top of their individual caseloads, they have worked collaboratively with teachers to integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) into classrooms, helping students process difficult emotions and build healthier coping strategies. They've also been instrumental in managing the overwhelming stress that many of us are feeling offering support, resources, and strategies to help us maintain balance in an often-demanding environment.

In short, our counselors are not just guides, they are our lifelines, helping to create a safe, nurturing space where both students and adults can thrive. Please take a moment this week to thank them for their dedication and hard work. Whether it's a simple note of appreciation or a quick conversation, let's all show them just how much they mean to us.

On behalf of the QRMHS community, thank you to all of our counselors for everything they do. We are lucky to have you as part of our QRMHS community. I wish all of you a great month ahead!

With warm regards,

Ms. DeMorais, QRMHS Principal

02/04

• Course Selection Presentations - Grade 9

• HS MCAS Science Retest

• 9:00-11:00am: MHS Soar Field Trip (Five Below)

02/05

• HS MCAS Science Retest

02/06

• 1:45pm: Music Field Trip: Quabbin Valley Music Festival (2nd Rehearsal) - Belchertown HS

02/08

• 10:00am-2:00pm Hiking Club Field Trip (Barre Falls Dam)

02/10

• Course Selection Presentations - Grade 8

02/11

• Course Selection Presentations - Grade 8

• 8:30am-10:30am: MHS Soar Field Trip (Market Basket)

• 1:30pm: Music Field Trip: Quabbin Valley Music Festival - 3rd Rehearsal (3:00pm) and Concert (7:00pm) - Minnechaug HS

02/12

• Early Release PD Day

02/14

• Snow Day for Quabbin Valley Music Festival 3rd Rehearsal and Concert (if needed)

• 8:15am-1:45pm: ICP/Business Pathway Field Trip (Holy Cross)

• 11:15am: Grade 6 Movie Showing (Auditorium)

02/17 - 02/21

• February Break: NO School (School Resumes 02/24/25)

02/25

• Pathfinder Interviews (Career Center)

• 8:30am-10:30am: MHS Soar Field Trip (Market Basket)

02/27

• Monty Tech Interviews (Career Center)

• 8:00am-4:00pm: NHS Blood Drive (HS Gym)

02/28

• Monty Tech Interviews (Career Center)

As we enter Counselors Appreciation Week this week, I want to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable work our counselors do every single day. This is a time to show gratitude for the critical role they play in supporting not only our students, but also our staff and families.

In a year marked by heightened stress whether related to academic pressures, social-emotional challenges, or the ongoing uncertainty in the world our counselors have truly been a cornerstone of our community. According to recent data from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 1 in 5 students nationwide is struggling with a mental health challenge in 2025. This has only been amplified by the pressures of returning to normalcy in schools post-pandemic, rising concerns about school safety, and the emotional toll of global and local events.

Our counselors have been tirelessly working to:

• Provide emotional support for students facing stress, anxiety, and trauma.
• Guide families through navigating complex academic and social challenges.
• Coordinate interventions for students in crisis, offering both short-term and long-term solutions.
• Deliver preventive programs focused on mental health, resilience, and well-being.
• Advocate for inclusive practices that ensure every student feels seen and supported.

On top of their individual caseloads, they have worked collaboratively with teachers to integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) into classrooms, helping students process difficult emotions and build healthier coping strategies. They've also been instrumental in managing the overwhelming stress that many of us are feeling offering support, resources, and strategies to help us maintain balance in an often-demanding environment.

In short, our counselors are not just guides, they are our lifelines, helping to create a safe, nurturing space where both students and adults can thrive. Please take a moment this week to thank them for their dedication and hard work. Whether it's a simple note of appreciation or a quick conversation, let's all show them just how much they mean to us.

On behalf of the QRMHS community, thank you Ashley Csorba, Donna Hubbard, Katie Gaspar, Tesha Ward, Jennie Veber, Shannon Harris, Chloe Favreau, Colleen Fors, Nick Cammuso, and Stephanie Morrissette for everything you do. We are lucky to have you on our team!

The Quabbin Innovation Pathway Program implemented a pilot program this year, giving students the unique opportunity to earn industry certifications and gain a competitive edge early on.

In the Graphic Design Path students taking Photoshop were given the opportunity to take the Adobe Certified Professional Photoshop test. To pass this test is a significant achievement that demonstrates a high level of expertise in one of the most powerful design tools available. This certification not only validates a person's technical skills but also opens doors to new professional opportunities in the creative industry and beyond. Congratulations to all the students at Quabbin who put in the hard work, dedication, and practice to earn this certification—you should be incredibly proud of your accomplishment! Your commitment to mastering Photoshop will set you apart as a skilled professional ready to tackle any creative challenge that comes your way.

Congratulations to Benjamin Metcalf, Frederick Schaaf, William Fowler, Kun Liu, Brandon Bodine, Zachary Zajac, Travis LaRoche, Quinn Geary, Trevor Boissoneau, Aaron Rowell, Joseph Flynn, Aiden Fuller, Jake Thao, Jacoby Venne, Abraham Brown, Nicholas Antonio, Troy Budreau, Ava Kinney, Kristin Schur, Ellary White, Jaxon Warburton, Logan Loomer, Lauren Orne, Vanecia Tarquinio, Vincent Marinelli, Owen Twarog, Jahzara Tweedell, Sydney Freeman, Emma Ryan, Jack Orsini, Shane Woodruff, Callie Hardy, Emma Lindsey, Kathryn Ford, Oliver Davis, Alex Davis, Jacob Bassett, Teaghan Earle, Halo Bissonnette and Nathan Cruz.

In the Business path students taking Accounting were given the opportunity to become a Inuit QuickBooks Certified User. This certification demonstrates proficiency in one of the most widely used accounting software programs, showcasing skills in financial management, bookkeeping, and organizational tasks. It signals to potential employers, colleges, or future clients that the student is knowledgeable and prepared to handle real-world financial scenarios. For students pursuing business, finance, or entrepreneurship, this credential can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and a head start in their careers.

Congratulations to Kevin Thompson, Jahzara Tweedell, and Eric Serrano on becoming a QuickBooks Certified User.

As our Spring Semester begins students will have the opportunity to boost their credentials in additional certifications. The Adobe Certified Professional in Illustrator validates students' expertise in creating vector graphics, illustrations, and complex designs. With the Adobe Certified Professional in InDesign, students will demonstrate their ability to produce professional layouts for print and digital media. Additionally, the Intuit Personal Finance Certified showcases their knowledge of essential personal finance skills, such as budgeting, managing credit, and understanding taxes. These certifications are a great way for students to stand out and showcase their skills learned in the Innovation Pathway Program to future employers and colleges.

Thank you to our talented staff who have supported these accomplishments!

Updates from Grade 6

Mrs. Veber will be visiting 6th Grade Social Studies classrooms in the first week of February to do a lesson on social media safety.

Updates from Grade 8

Dear Students and Families,

We want to remind you of some key dates and provide helpful resources as you prepare for your upcoming Monty Tech and Pathfinder interviews.

Important Deadlines and Interview Dates

• Application Deadline: February 1, 2025

• Pathfinder Interviews: Tuesday, February 25

• Monty Tech Interviews: Thursday, February 27, and Friday, February 28

Students will receive an appointment time and pass for their interview. Interviews will be held in the College and Career Center in the Guidance Office.

Interview Preparation Resources

To help you prepare, here is a video Monty Tech shares with all applicants:
https://www.montytech.net/domain/2150

Tips for Dressing for Success

Your outfit can make a great first impression! Remember:

• Avoid sweatpants and pajamas.

• Dress comfortably but professionally—dress shirts, dresses, and nice pants work well.

• There’s no need to buy something new; use what you have that makes you feel confident and put-together.

Things to Keep in Mind During Your Interview

• Non-Verbal Body Language:

• Sit up straight and maintain good posture.

• Make eye contact.

• Avoid fidgeting or playing with your hair.

• Show Energy and Enthusiasm:

• Let your personality shine through!

• Take a few deep breaths beforehand to relax and focus.

• Be well-rested to bring your best self.

Common Interview Questions to Practice

1. Can you tell me a little about yourself?

2. What interests you in this school or program?

3. What are you learning in your classes that will help you succeed?

4. What are your strengths?

5. What are your weaknesses?

6. What is an accomplishment you feel proud of?

7. What goals do you have?

Final Reminders

Preparation is key! Practice answering questions, rehearse good posture, and remember to be yourself. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

2025-2026 Scheduling Presentations

School Guidance Counselors are visiting classrooms in January and February to assist students in selecting their courses for next school year. Students should aim to choose most of their classes during their scheduled lessons.

Course Selection Presentation

Presentation Schedule:

Current Grade 11 - January 21 & January 22 in Global Politics & Global Politics HL

Current Grade 10 - January 27 & 28 in English 10 & AP Language

Current Grade 9 - February 3 & 4 in Integrated 1 & Integrated 1 & 2 Honors

Current Grade 8 - February 10 & 12 in Civics

To help students and families make informed decisions about their options, we have provided the Course Selection Presentation and Course Catalog for the school year 2025-2026 in advance. We encourage you to review these materials with your child at your convenience and discuss their available options. It is also important for students to talk to their teachers about their choices. If students have any questions after viewing the presentation, we recommend that they write them down and bring them to their course selection meeting with their counselor.

The students below were inducted into the National Honor Society of Quabbin Regional High School because they have demonstrated their achievement in the pillars of Scholar, Character, Service and Leadership. The culmination of these qualities shows what it means to be a well-rounded student; this is not easily achieved. We offer our congratulations to this fine group of students!

1st Row, left to right: Andrew Warfield, Abigail Ure, Emma Kahlau, Luke Salvadore, Venecia Tarquinio, Ruby Gatulis, Sophia Gagne, Elizabeth Matheson, Grace Manna, Hunter McQueston, Hannah Zereski

2nd Row, left to right: Jin Xi Zou, Garrett Erickson, Collin Lindley, Richard Tucker, Rylee-Anne Harty, Adelaide Harmon, Micah Cerezo, Mia Ducos, Kalina Dyer, Owen Breuer, Bianca Wilder

Learner Profile Attribute of the Month - COMMUNICATORS

At Quabbin, we are committed to fostering a learning environment that prepares students to be knowledgeable, open-minded, and effective communicators —key attributes of the IB Learner Profile. IB defines a communicator as someone who can express themselves confidently and creatively in more than one language, collaborate effectively, and listen attentively to different perspectives.

In the classroom, students strengthen these skills by engaging in meaningful discussions, considering diverse viewpoints, and sharing knowledge through various formats such as presentations, class debates, and multimedia projects. These communication skills not only support academic success but also prepare students for college, careers, and beyond.

IB Updates Across Grade Levels

We’ve had an exciting few months introducing students to the opportunities available through the IB Diploma Program and other academic pathways:

• Eighth-grade students in Michelle Hall’s semester 1 classes learned about high school World Language opportunities, including the IB program, and the benefits of committing to four years of language study to earn the Seal of Biliteracy.

• During Flex Block, sophomores have explored the IB Diploma Program, learning about its challenging and rewarding coursework as they prepare for junior-year course selection.

• Our Junior IB Diploma Candidates have officially begun their Extended Essay process, a 4,000-word independent research paper on a topic of their choice. EE/CAS Coordinator, Christy Minton has been instrumental in supporting students through workshops that have helped them feel more confident in tackling this IB requirement.

Is IB the Right Fit for Your Student?

The IB Diploma Program is a rigorous and enriching academic pathway that fosters critical thinking, global awareness, and strong communication skills. If you are interested in learning how your child can become an IB Diploma candidate, please reach out to IB Coordinator Eleni Marinelli at emarinelli@qrsd.org.

Every year Quabbin selects grade 8 students that exhibit "courage, compassion, and unlimited potential to lead positive change." These students are recognized through a statewide program called Project 351 which emphasizes kindness, compassion, humility, and gratitude and acknowledges students who are unsung heroes and quiet leaders.

On Saturday, January 25th, Ambassadors were joined by Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Massachusetts Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler and other community leaders for a day of service and celebration in Boston.

“The young people who serve with Project 351 are great examples of what makes Massachusetts a leader in so many important ways,” said Governor Healey. “These Ambassadors demonstrate what is possible when we work together to make the changes we all want to see in our own communities. I’m proud to join them as they embark on this important year of leadership and service.”

The Project 351 Ambassadors’ 12-month term of leadership development and service is the foundation of Project 351’s leadership model. High school, college, and career Alumni steward Project 351’s mission and model of impact as mentors, program leaders, and governance. Through the 351 enrichment continuum, a new generation of leaders develops the skills, knowledge, and courage to achieve bold change. We are proud of the following students who continue to push themselves to grow both personally and professionally!!

Robert Tobin, Aiden Pagan, Jacob Rosario, Chloe Richardson, Zoey Salvadore, Isabelle Wentworth

Did you know that Quabbin has a cooperative agreement with Gardner to participate in boys’ ice hockey and girls’ and boys’ swim? Girls’ ice hockey has a coop with Leominster.

Quabbin sophomore Ella Reeves won multiple events at the MidWach league championships last week. Ella won the 100 butterfly (1:0336) and the 100 breaststroke (1:07.4).

All schedules, including practices and games, can be found HERE.

Senior nights will be here before we know it. Wrestling is Feb. 5th, girls’ basketball on Feb. 7th and boys’ basketball on Feb. 11th vs. Littleton.

February News from the Health Office

· Please remember to send your student to school with a water bottle. It is important for them to stay hydrated during the school day. We have water refill stations located throughout the school.

· Fragrances - Please encourage your children to refrain from using perfume, cologne, strongly scented lotions, and strongly scented hand sanitizers. Many students are sensitive to artificial fragrances and can experience respiratory symptoms, nausea, or headaches as a result of exposure.

· Quabbin NHS is hosting a blood drive on February 27th 10am-4pm. This blood drive is open to the community, we are hoping to see a good turnout! Students must be at least 16 years old to donate. All students aged 16 and 17 will require parental consent to donate blood. If you or your student is interested in participating, please sign up at ribc.org/drives and use sponsor code M102. The following are some of the requirements that need to be met for blood donation:

- Maintaining your iron level is an important part of being a healthy donor.

- Be in good general health and feeling well.

- Weigh at least 110 lbs. Additional height and weight requirements apply for donors 18 years old and younger and all high school student donors. See RIBC.org for more details.

- Have not donated blood in the last 56 days

· Notification for Excused Absences : Parents must notify the school with a written notice within 3 school days of a student being absent. Parents may excuse all absences of 2 days or less up to 7 parent excused absences in a school year. Student absences of 3 or more consecutive school days may only be excused by a note from a medical provider indicating the date(s) of the absence(s), description of the specific reason for the absence(s) and be signed by the physician or licensed health professional. Please note that emails are the best means of providing excuse notifications.

· While we often focus on students’ physical health in the nurse’s office, there are many times when students visit the school nurse for symptoms that may be tied to their mental health without realizing it. Oftentimes stomach aches or headaches can be traced to feelings of anxiety or stress. Teaching children to recognize symptoms of stress or anxiety and to prioritize their mental well-being is essential to their success throughout their school year and throughout their lifetime. Encouraging healthy habits, such as uninterrupted sleep, a well-rounded diet, and plenty of fresh air and exercise are great ways to encourage BOTH physical and mental well-being!

We are now halfway through the school year and it is a great time to check in with your students to see how they are feeling mentally and emotionally. The winter season can be particularly difficult for many people and we’ve provided some resources (below) that you can use if you ever feel that you need additional support. Please reach out to the health office, the guidance office, or administrators if you feel that your student is struggling with their mental health, so that we can work together to address their needs.

Resources

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 988

The National Suicide Prevention Hotline is available for 24/7 free and confidential emotional support for people in suicide crisis or emotional distress. Call, text, and chat options are available.

Parent Stress Line (Multiple Languages Available): 1-800-632-8188

The Parent Stress Line is a confidential helpline for parents who need to discuss issues about their children. Trained counselors are available to offer non-judgemental and empathetic support.

Child-at-Risk Hotline (Call to report child abuse and neglect): 800-792-5200

The Child-at-Risk Hotline is available to report suspected child abuse or neglect on nights, weekends and holidays. For regular business hours (8:45a.m. to 5p.m.), please call the Department of Child and Family services office that serves your city or town. If you believe a child is in immediate danger, please call 911.

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 and provides tools and support to help survivors of domestic violence live freely of abuse.

Crisis Services Clinical and Support Options (CSO): 978-488-8888

CSO’s Crisis Services provide mental health assessment, intervention, and stabilization for youth, families, and adults, 24/7. Individuals may request services on their own or be referred by family, medical providers, schools, state agencies, police, etc. Services are available regardless of insurance or ability to pay.

Quabbin Cadets attended our 5th Annual Dining In on the 24th of January at the Colonial Hotel in Gardner. The night was filled with a sumptuous meal, many military traditions, and great fun, just enjoying each other’s company. It all began with a 45-reception as we welcomed a few guests including Ms. Hicks, Ms. Sczucka, Cadet Summer Hudson, the Commanding Officer of Oxford NJROTC, and our Guest of Honor and Guest Speaker - Master Chief Ed Kay the Oxford Naval Science Instructor. Each of our guests was welcomed into the dining room with music specifically selected for them. MS. Hicks literally skated her seat armed with her goalie stick, goalie mask on and all to the music of her fave, PINK! Ms. Sczucka danced into the room to the music of “Dance the Night Away.” You had to see it to believe it! That began the night and was followed by lots of foolish humor, skits, impromptu singing and dancing, and just great fun. Ask the Cadets how it all went!

On Wednesday, 5 February, the NJROTC Cadets will be hosting all the 8th graders to introduce NJROTC to them with the hope of them enrolling in the program. Thank you to Mr. Castriotta and Ms. Pelletier for their assistance with this effort.

On Saturday the 8th, 7 Cadets will be traveling to Mattituck, NY on Long Island for a Brain Brawl competition and Drone competition. Hunter LaBier, Isabel LaBelle, Micah Cerezo, Quin Fauteux, and Jacoby Hartshorn will be matching wits with 9 other teams from the northeast while Aiden Fuller and Auguste Bellerose will be racing drones through the halls of Mattituck High. Wish them all luck!

Finally, preparations for the NJROTC Ball and Lock-In (14/15 March) are in full swing. If you would like to volunteer to help out at the Lock-In give Captain Brennock a call at extension 2123!

You could find the pep band at the Quabbin vs Gardner double header on Friday, January 10th supporting our varsity girls and boys teams through two tough games alongside the energetic student section. They will make ONE more appearance this winter including February 7th!

Check out Our rendition of seven Nation army at last night’s basketball game.

January and February are busy months for out of school music festivals and we are happy to announce that we have students working to participate in four different festivals around the state of Massachusetts.

-We have about 60 Quabbin students participating in the Quabbin Valley Music Educators Music Festival in January and February alongside students from about fifteen Central and Western Mass.

Here is the list of students participating. On February 6th and February 11th, they will be dismissed from class at 1:30PM to attend rehearsals at other schools.

We were proud to host the first rehearsal for this festival at Quabbin this past Wednesday. We hosted over 300 musicians and their directors. A huge thank you to all of our student volunteers and ProMusica, our music booster club headed up by Andrea Leroux, for feeding all of those hungry musicians!!

We have four students who have been accepted into the UMASS Honor Band Festival! Congratulate Tess Dunphy, Abigail Falconi, Rose Lyden and Lia Sherblom when you see them for this honor!

On Wednesday, during the half day, we were able to hold an Upstanders Training with 20 students. Students were recommended for this training as someone who has an impact on their peers and a positive influence on the Quabbin community. Students engaged in a variety of activities, including Project Adventure games, scenario discussions, and group building activities. We acknowledged that it can be difficult to respond when something feels off for a variety of reasons. We as adults can encourage our students to make a positive change by showing our support of their efforts; when you see a student stepping into a difficult situation and attempting to help, be sure to share your appreciation and support them. Our students have the ability to make a far bigger impact on their peers' actions and attitudes than we as adults ever can, and now 20 more students are aware of how their actions and attitudes can affect those around them in a more positive way.

We hope that this is the first in an ongoing developing group looking at how to make positive changes for all students at Quabbin!

Q-DRUG Vision: A Quabbin Region that is mentally, physically and emotionally healthy, allowing all to be addiction free.

Q-DRUG Mission: Quabbin Drug Response Unifying Group "Q-DRUG", works with our community to stand together to support youth substance use prevention. We seek to promote awareness and erase the stigma of substance use disorder to build a recovery supportive community.

The Q-Munity Closet is available for any student or family connected to Quabbin Regional School District. Resources such as food, clothing, and hygiene products are available free of charge. All referrals are confidential, and the Q-munity Closet can be used by contacting Principal Demorais at: pdemorais@qrsd.org or Adjustment Counselor Shannon Harris at: sharris@qrsd.org.

We are currently seeking donations of warm clothing and food for the pantry.

Most asked for items

Black leggings (sizes medium and large)

Sweatpants (sizes small, medium, large, and x-large)

Long sleeve plain shirts (sizes small to x-large)

Mac & cheese, granola bars, and applesauce

Quabbin Regional Middle/High School is a collaborative learning community, where all students have opportunities to achieve personal excellence in a safe and accepting environment.

Our mission is to prepare students to become self-reliant, life-long learners who are responsible and resourceful citizens in a global society.

Email: pdemorais@qrsd.org
Website: Home - Quabbin Regional School District (qrsd.org)
Location: South Street, Barre, MA 01005, USA
Phone: (978)355-4651