

Ranger Weekly Message
November 15, 2024

Headliners
SOAR Award Winner
At the Methuen School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, senior Desmond Csizmadia was presented with the Mathematics SOAR Award. The SOAR Award is given to one student per year in each subject area and serves to recognize remarkable academic success and commendable accomplishments. Congratulations, Desmond.
JROTC Ranger Battalion Improvement Plan Briefing
On Wednesday November 13, 2024 the JROTC cadets presented to Superintendent Dr. Kwong, Interim Principal Mr. Curet, & Associate Principal Ms. Javier on their goals, improvement plan, action steps, and benchmarks. Great job cadets! For more information the JROTC program, check out their website HERE, or email LTC Tim O'Flaherty tyoflaherty@methuen.k12.ma.us or SFC Shawn Kelly snkelly@methuen.k12.ma.us
Unified Basketball
On Thursday, November 14, 2024 our unified basketball team participated in a Jamboree at Lowell High School. Our Rangers went 2-0 on the day and ended their season with an overall record of 5-3. Congratulations to all of our coaches, volunteers, and players on a great season.
Collective Bargaining Updates as of November 15, 2024
The Methuen School Committee is actively bargaining with the Methuen Education Association for Unit A (teachers) and Unit C (program assistants). In an effort to be transparent about the process and information being shared, there is a link on the MPS website titled collective bargaining updates. Methuen School Committee values all MPS educators and the need for fair and equitable contracts while working within the constraints of the MPS operating budget.
Equitable Access to Rigorous Coursework
Advanced placement exams have been ordered. During the 24/25 school year there will be 804 advanced placement exams taking place. That is more exams than we have ever administered in the history of our advanced placement courses offered at MHS. At Methuen High School our students are challenged to always push their academic limits in pursuit of achievement on its highest level. While we have reached new heights with advanced placement, we are excited to explore how we can continue to increase the number of students taking rigorous coursework.
Announcements/Reminders
Academic Support Center Is Back - Open After School
The Academic Support Center (ASC) is available for students to get extra help/tutoring to complete their coursework. The ASC, staffed with certified MHS teachers, will be open from 2:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m., Monday through Thursday in the Media Center. Students who desire a quiet space to complete assignments individually may also access the center. All students are encouraged to have conversations with their teachers about completing assignments and utilizing the ASC.
Mental Health Parent & Student Advisory Council (MHPSAC)
Seeking New Members
The Mental Health Parent & Student Advisory Council was formed in order to give students and
parents a voice regarding the mental health initiative in Methuen. The goals of the MHPSAC will
be to identify steps to reduce stigma related to mental health problems, promote health and
wellbeing through increased awareness and prevention, improve students’ access to and use of
mental health services and supports, and continue to strengthen and unify our community
regarding mental health awareness and access to quality services and supports.
Interested students and parents/guardians are encouraged to join these monthly, virtual
sessions to engage in discussion and collaborative planning that will guide the continued design
and implementation of social emotional and mental health services and supports across
Methuen Public Schools. This year, we are especially interested in expanding membership of
the council to include students and caregivers in grades 5-8.
If you are interested in joining the Mental Health Parent & Student Advisory Council, please
email John Crocker, Director of School Mental Health & Behavioral Services at
jncrocker@methuen.k12.ma.us. The meeting dates and times for the 24-25 school year are
listed below:
December 4 (4:45-5:30)
January 29 (4:45-5:30)
February 26 (4:45-5:30)
March 26 (4:45-5:30)
April 30 (4:45-5:30)
May 28 (4:45-5:30)
Electronics Policy- Please Review With Your Children
All electronics including cellphones, smartwatches, and headphones are to be away during instructional time. Teachers have been provided clear pocket holders. Best practice would be to store electronics in the provided pocket holder. This is a students best method for ensuring that the electronics do not come out during instructional time. If electronics do not go into the pocket holder they should remain away for the duration of the period. This includes if students leave the room on a pass. If electronics are out for any reason, teachers have been instructed to assign a teacher detention and to communicate with parents/guardians. During transitions and lunches we are okay with students using their electronics so long as it is done so responsibly. This means at no point should students be taking video's, or pictures, and/or making social media posts, and one headphone should be out so that students can hear staff in the event that they need to speak to them. Teachers have been reviewing all expectations over the past few days to support student understanding of these very essential expectations. We want to reiterate that while many schools are going to full electronics bans in schools. That is not how we want things to be for our students. Our goal is for everyone to use technology appropriately, and with our 1-1 iPad initiative, there is no reason for personal electronics to be out during instructional periods. We appreciate your understanding on why this is important, and we appreciate students cooperation with following this policy so that teachers can provide your children with the learning opportunities that they deserve free of the distractions that come with technology.
Upcoming Events
Athletics Fall Awards Night- Wednesday November 20, 2024
The Methuen Athletic Department will be hosting its Fall Awards Night will be Wednesday 11/20 at 6:30pm in the Arthur Nicholson III Auditorium. All athletes and coaches for all of our fall sports are expected to attend.
Athletics- Week Ahead Athletics Schedule
Our Rangers are entering tournament play. For updated information on tournament schedules as they are released, please visit the Ranger Athletic Schedule or the MIAA website for more information as the playoff schedule/format comes out.
Attendance at Fall Events - Spectator Expectations
We are excited to support MHS Athletics throughout the fall months. When attending events, please adhere to the following expectations:
- Cheer positively for the Rangers and be respectful of the coaches, opponents, officials, and guests.
- Inappropriate language and behavior will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the event.
- Backpacks are not allowed. If there is a need to bring a bag, it may be subject to search.
- If you leave the facility, you may not reenter.
- School rules apply for all MHS students attending school-sponsored, extracurricular events, whether at MHS or another location. Violations of the MHS code of conduct, as outlined in the student handbook, may result in disciplinary consequences.
We look forward to an enjoyable season. Go Rangers!
College and Career Highlight
Binghamton University
Location: Binghamton, New York
Mascot: Baxter the Bearcat
Average accepted GPA: Approximately 90% (on a 100-point scale)
Average accepted SAT: Around 1300-1450
Average accepted ACT: Approximately 28-32
Enrollment: Approximately 18,000 students
Undergraduate students: About 14,000
Graduate students: Around 4,000
Recently rated #1 SUNY school by Forbes and Wall Street Journal
Why is Binghamton University a premier public university?
“We have an academic culture that is rigorous, collaborative and boldly innovative. Our campus exemplifies the best kind of public university experience: richly diverse students, an active social life and deep engagement within the community. Each of our students, like you, brings a particular vision and set of talents to create a unique perspective. They’re explorers and innovators; they’re eager for a challenge and willing to roll up their sleeves.”
Prospective students should consider attending Binghamton University for its strong academic reputation, diverse range of programs, and vibrant campus life. With a commitment to research and innovation, Binghamton offers students the opportunity to engage in meaningful projects and collaborate with faculty who are leaders in their fields. The university's extensive student organizations and active athletic programs foster a sense of community and belonging, while its picturesque campus provides an ideal environment for both study and recreation. Additionally, the university's strategic location in New York State offers students access to numerous internship and career opportunities, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their educational experience and future career prospects.
Multiple Colleges in One University: Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, School of Management, Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science, College of Community and Public Affairs, and School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
With more than 2,500 international students from 100+ different countries, Binghamton University is rich with different cultures and perspectives. Binghamton has won eight U.S. national awards for internationalizing the campus and its coursework.
Binghamton connects new and current international students to help them make a comfortable transition to the University, and also provide continuous immigration guidance and support services.
A Leader in Ambition and Innovation
Binghamton University has built a reputation as a premier institution, renowned as one of the top public research universities in the U.S. for its talent, facilities, partnerships and research opportunities.
Binghamton University Student Life offers a vibrant campus life with a variety of activities, events, and organizations that cater to diverse interests There are over 300 clubs and organizations, including academic, cultural, recreational, and service-oriented groups
Athletics: Multiple sports competing at NCAA Division I
Fall Open Houses: Register here with four dates to choose from. (Two in October and two in November.)
Accountants and Auditors
What do Accountants and Auditors do?
Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate statements prepared by others. Install or advise on systems of recording costs or other financial and budgetary data.
What tasks do Accountants and Auditors perform?
Prepare detailed reports on audit findings.
Report to management about asset utilization and audit results, and recommend changes in operations and financial activities.
Collect and analyze data to detect deficient controls, duplicated effort, extravagance, fraud, or non-compliance with laws, regulations, and management policies.
Inspect account books and accounting systems for efficiency, effectiveness, and use of accepted accounting procedures to record transactions.
What do Accountants and Auditors need to know?
Economics and Accounting
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
What skills do Accountants and Auditors need?
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Median Yearly Income: $79,932
Income Percentile
Income Low (10%)$48,534
Median (50%)$79,932
High (90%)$148,433
Most Common Education Level: Bachelor's degree
High school diploma or less 0.00%
Certificate 0.00%
Some college 39.48%
Associate degree 14.08%
Bachelor's degree 43.60%
Master's or professional degree 2.84%
Doctoral degree or more 0.00%
Projected Job Growth: +7.31%
YOUR Future is BIG
Looking for guidance on what college might be a good fit for you? How about a career that might interest you? Need financial support to help you get there? HERE is a great resource to help you get to YOUR BIG FUTURE! As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to your school counselor for more support.
CALLING ALL RANGERS: Our Rangers are Going Places
Seniors,
We would love to highlight where you are committing to for college. Please share your admittance letter with main office secretary Ellie Sicard and we will get you added to our newsletter.
Resources for Families
Infinite Campus
For more information how to connect to Infinite Campus, or how to update personal information, click HERE
Student Parking- Purchase Permits
For more information on parking expectations and how to purchase a permit, click HERE.
Buses, Parent Drop-off, and Pick-up
For more information on bussing, parent drop-off, and pick-up, click HERE
Student Absences, Tardies, Dismissals, Credit Denial
For more information on student attendance, tardies, dismissal, and credit denial policies, please click HERE
Additional Resources
Care Solace - 24/7/365 Mental Health Care Coordination Service
Methuen Public Schools has secured a resource to support matching students, staff, and their families to mental health services. Care Solace draws on a national database of mental health providers and manages complete coordination of the service matching process all the way through to intake. Support is available in multiple languages for all forms of insurance 24/7/365.
This service can be accessed confidentially without informing any MPS staff. Click here to access the Methuen webpage to search for mental health services and begin the matching process. Students under the age of 18 will need the consent of their caregivers to begin the process of accessing mental health services.
The family letters, available in English and Spanish, describe how individuals can initiate a referral. Thank you for partnering with MPS as we work to ensure all students and families receive quality and timely support.
Resources for supporting students at risk of substance use
The Impact of Mental Health on Youth Substance Abuse: A Critical Connection
Addressing substance use without understanding the role of mental health is like solving half the puzzle. Often, when a student is struggling with one, the other follows. For many young people, substance use becomes a way to manage emotional challenges they can’t easily express. Please see the article The Impact of Mental Health on Youth Substance Abuse article for more information.
School Counseling Department - Information and Supports for Students
Every student at MHS can access support from the School Counseling Department for problems large and small. Counselors do not only assist students with postsecondary planning and academics. All school counselors are licensed professionals who provide free, confidential counseling services to students to address mental health concerns, personal problems, conflicts, and crises. If a student is struggling with a personal issue, needs help supporting a friend, or simply needs advice about how to manage a stressful situation, please reach out to the School Counseling Department. Families are encouraged to reach out to counseling staff to request support for their student (including group and individual counseling services), request assistance navigating difficult situations and family crises, and learn about how to access community resources. Counselors are available throughout the school day and can be contacted in person and through email. Students can simply visit the counseling office or reach out in any way they feel comfortable and a counselor will provide the help they are looking for.
Associate Principals
Please do not hesitate to reach out to the appropriate grade-level associate principal for assistance. Communication along with a strong partnership between families and the school will provide students with the necessary support system to be successful throughout high school.
Glenda Javier - Grade 12 AP gajavier@methuen.k12.ma.us (978) 722-6040 ext. 2623
Matthew Curran - Interim Grade 11 AP mwcurran@methuen.k12.ma.us (978) 722-6040 ext. 2363
Jackie Rubino - Grade 10 AP jerubino@methuen.k12.ma.us (978) 722-6040 ext. 2362
Kevin O’Loughlin - Grade 9 AP knoloughlin@methuen.k12.ma.us (978) 722-6040 ext. 2669
MHS School Calendar
November 2024
Saturday, November 23, 2024:- JROTC MAP Competition (Revere)
- Santa Parade
- Early Release
- Thanksgiving- Schools Closed
December 2024
Wednesday December 4, 2024:
- Connections
- Second Term Midpoint
- Senior Class Trip to NYC
- Winter Choral Concert
- Fall Play
- JROTC MAP Competition
- Department Meetings
- Connections
- Winter Band Concert
- Early Release
- Winter Break-No School
January 2025
Wednesday, January 1, 2025:
- New Years Day- All Buildings Closed
- School Resumes
- ACCESS for ELLS Testing Window Opens
- MHS Faculty Meeting
- JROTC Archery Inaugural Regional Competitions
- Connections
- Senior Scholarship Night
- Junior Parent Night
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day- No School
- Connections
- Second Term Ends
- Department Meetings
District News
Methuen Public Schools Employment Opportunities
Are you interested in supporting our students by working in the Methuen Public Schools? Click here to view employment opportunities. Please contact Director of Human Resources Colleen McCarthy by email at cnmccarthy@methuen.k12.ma.us or by phone at (978) 722-6013 with questions.