Shout out to Ms. Aliano and the work that she does in her history classes to embody MHS core values and beliefs. This month, there has been a continued emphasis on the importance of kindness, academic achievement, and teamwork through their Ranger Pride History shout-outs. Each month, students vote on a peer who embodies “Ranger Pride” by demonstrating kindness, leadership, and dedication to learning.

This Months student recipients were: Alexis Nevarez, Yeilen Reyes Rosario, and Eva Lorfils.

Ranger P.R.I.D.E

For the ninth straight year, Methuen High School is participating in the national Poetry Out Loud (POL) competition. The event begins in English classes, with each student memorizing and reciting a poem they select from the POL database. The class champion from each English class advances to the MHS semifinal contest, judged by a panel of English teachers using POL rubrics. The top 12 students move on to the MHS final competition, adjudicated by a panel of teachers and administrators. For the past five years, our MHS POL champions have qualified as Massachusetts POL state finalists. Contest timelines are provided below:

● Thursday, January 2 - Friday, January 10 - MHS class competitions held and class champions selected
● Tuesday, January 14 & Wednesday, January 15 - MHS semi-finals held and school finalists (12)
selected
● Tuesday, January 21 - MHS POL Finals held and finalist selected

● Saturday, March 8 - Monday, March 10 -POL Regional Semi-Finals
● Sunday, March 16 - Massachusetts POL State Finals

Please note that Friday, January 25, 2025, marks the end of the second marking term. Families are encouraged to have conversations about their student’s progress to date. Please do not hesitate to contact your student’s teacher(s), counselor, or associate principal with questions or concerns. As a reminder, students and families should log in to Infinite Campus daily to monitor student attendance and grades. For assistance with your IC account (username and password), contact Main Office Secretary Ellen Sicard by email at ensicard@methuen.k12.ma.us or by phone at (978) 722-6040.

The third marking term and second semester begin on Monday, January 27, 2025. Students are reminded to view their second semester schedule in Infinite Campus as semester-long courses will change.

On Thursday, January 16, 2025, the School Counseling Department will hold its Postsecondary Planning Presentation for grade 11 students and families in the Arthur Nicholson III Auditorium beginning at 6:30 p.m. Counselors will share postsecondary options available to students, including information about two- and four-year colleges and universities, trade/technical schools, armed services, and careers. Our goal is to ensure that every student exits Methuen High School fully prepared for a variety of college and career opportunities.

Monday, January 20, 2025, there will be no school in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Students are reminded to celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. An influential civil rights leader, Dr. King will forever be remembered for his nonviolent efforts to overcome racial discrimination and promote equality. Please enjoy the long weekend and remember to support one another regardless of our differences.

Martin Luther King, Jr. - "I Have A Dream" - August 28, 1963, Washington, D.C.

The thirty-ninth annual Methuen High School Science Fair will be held in the dining halls on Monday, February 3 from 8:15 to 10:15 a.m. and from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., with awards immediately following. The MHS Science Fair will showcase 90 projects from over 150 student participants who engaged in scientific inquiry to learn about science and the world around us. While effectively implementing the scientific method, students chose a scientific question to answer, formulated a hypothesis, and designed a well-controlled experiment. After summarizing the research in a written report, students performed the experiment and drew relevant conclusions. At this public exhibition, participants will articulate their results to classmates, teachers, parents, and community members. While learning about science is at the heart of the project, the science fair is a great way for our students to develop their critical thinking and communication skills through an active, hands-on learning experience. Our students and faculty thank you for your continued support and look forward to seeing you at this year’s MHS Science Fair.

We are excited to support MHS Athletics throughout the winter 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!

The MHS Credit for Life Fair, developed in partnership with the Merrimack Valley Credit Union, will be held on the morning of Friday, February 14 2025, in the Klimas Memorial Field House. Through their participation in the fair, senior students will be presented with real-life scenarios as they experience the successes and challenges of managing a personal budget. Fair organizers are seeking volunteers who have some financial savvy and are eager to support our students. Click here to sign up to help. Donations are accepted and are greatly appreciated. Click here for information about making a donation.

Students,

Interested in showcasing your culture to the MHS community? Please fill out this form if you are interested in representing your culture at an in-school Multicultural Showcase on April 17, 2025. This will be an opportunity for you to share any aspect of your culture: arts/crafts, dance, music, clothing, cultural objects, information, language, performance, etc. This is NOT a final decision, we are looking to see which cultures could be represented by our student body. In an effort to give all students and cultures equal opportunity, we will be asking interested students/groups to submit a proposal in order to be considered for the showcase.

Location: Nashua, New Hampshire

Mascot: Raider

Average accepted GPA: Approximately 3.0

• Average accepted SAT: Around 1000

• Average accepted ACT: Approximately 20

Total Enrollment: Around 2,000

• Undergraduate students: Approximately 1,500

• Graduate students: Approximately 500

Rivier University is a four-year, Catholic institution that welcomes students from all backgrounds and provides a transformative and supportive educational experience. It was founded by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary and Sister Madeleine of Jesus in 1933. Throughout its history, the University has been dedicated to providing a learning environment that educates the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Our graduates excel professionally, academically, and in service to their communities.

Summary:

Prospective students may find Rivier University an appealing choice due to its supportive community and commitment to student success. With a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, students can pursue their academic interests while benefiting from personalized attention from faculty. The vibrant campus life, characterized by numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic opportunities, fosters a sense of belonging and engagement. Additionally, Rivier's strategic location in Nashua, New Hampshire, provides access to a rich cultural environment and career opportunities, making it an excellent place for students to grow both personally and professionally.

Student Life: Rivier offers a vibrant campus life with various activities, events, and support services.

• Over 30 clubs and organizations available for students to join.

• Athletics: Competes in NCAA Division III sports.

There are multiple open houses and information sessions available. You can also book a tour, and here is a student-guided virtual tour of the campus.

Colleges: College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, College of Education, College of Health and Biomedical Sciences

Rivier Early Acceptance Program (REAP): REAP streamlines your application process and provides on-the-spot acceptance and additional financial aid grant awards.

REAP the rewards of early acceptance in 3 easy steps!

1. Schedule an interview and campus tour.

2. Submit your Rivier application or Common App at least 24 hours in advance of your visit (essay and recommendation letters are waived).

3. Provide your current high school transcript through the end of your Junior year (digital transcripts are accepted).

PLUS… No required SAT/ACT scores and no application fee.

What do Chiropractors do?

Assess, treat, and care for patients by manipulation of spine and musculoskeletal system. May provide spinal adjustment or address sacral or pelvic misalignment.

What tasks do Chiropractors perform?

• Perform a series of manual adjustments to the spine or other articulations of the body to correct the musculoskeletal system.
• Evaluate the functioning of the neuromuscularskeletal system and the spine using systems of chiropractic diagnosis.
• Diagnose health problems by reviewing patients' health and medical histories, questioning, observing, and examining patients and interpreting x-rays.
• Obtain and record patients' medical histories.

What do Chiropractors need to know?

Medicine and Dentistry

• Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.

English Language

• Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Customer and Personal Service

• Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

What skills do Chiropractors need?

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.

Reading Comprehension

• Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

Critical Thinking

• Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

Median Yearly Income: $75,011

Income Percentile

Income Low (10%)$32,963

Median (50%)$75,011

High (90%)$191,487

Most Common Education Level: High School Diploma or Less

High school diploma or less 3.58%

Certificate 6.75%

Some college 0.00%

Associate degree 0.00%

Bachelor's degree 0.00%

Master's or professional degree 7.53%

Doctoral degree or more 82.14%

Projected Job Growth: +9.64%

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.

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.

At Methuen High School we strive to connect our students with the college, careers that they are considering. With that we have begun to invite outside organizations into our school to promote their respective military branch, educational institution, and/or career field. HERE is a list of scheduled upcoming visits. Please make sure to check back as this is a working document.

Attention students in the classes of 2026 - 2028, Brown University offers a Pre-College Program designed for high school students to explore the challenges and opportunities of the college experience. You’ll enjoy the excitement and responsibility that comes from balancing challenging academics and enriching social activities—without the pressure of formal grades.

The 2025 Brown Pre-College application opens on January 15, 2025. Click on the Learn More to learn more on important details and specifics about the various programs offered, including our Application Checklist!

All information regarding the MHS Class of 2025 Yearbook, including guidelines and deadlines can be found in this document. For questions about the yearbook and senior photo submissions please contact the MHS Yearbook Advisor, Ms. Varasconi.

***NEW***

We are asking that all seniors please take a moment to check Infinite Campus and make sure that their name appears correctly in our system. This is what we will be using for their diploma and it is important that the name appears correctly. If there is a mistake in the name or the spelling, please email Mrs. Javier immediately (gajavier@methuen.k12.ma.us) so that it can be corrected.

If you are looking to make a contribution or know of someone who may be interested in making a contribution to the Methuen Scholarship Foundation, please check out the attached images on how to contribute a gift, and/or a monetary contribution.

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.

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.

Looking for updates on what's happening around MHS. Check out Methuen Minutes.

Episode 5- Holiday Special

Episode 4

Episode 3

Episode 2

Episode 1

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:

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)

The student newspaper club (The Blue & White) finished their first issue of the paper this week. Check it out HERE.

For more information how to connect to Infinite Campus, or how to update personal information, click HERE

Daily Schedule

Early Release Schedule

Two Hour Delay Schedule

Lunch Schedule

For more information on parking expectations and how to purchase a permit, click HERE.

For more information on bussing, parent drop-off, and pick-up, click HERE

For more information on student attendance, tardies, dismissal, and credit denial policies, please click HERE

MHS Handbook

MHS Website

MHS Program of Studies

MHS Twitter Page- @MPS_MethuenHigh

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.

Have a child that you are concerned may be experimenting with substances? HERE are some resources that may help with supporting our youth. For more information on resources/support that MHS may be able to provide, please reach out to their school counselor or grade level AP.

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.

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.

• Counseling Department Services (English; Español)

• Counseling Department Overview (English; Español)

• Mental Health Screening FAQ for Students

• Student Mental Health Resources Organized by Topic

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

January 2025

Thursday, January 16, 2025:

• Junior Parent Night

Monday, January 20, 2025:

• Martin Luther King Jr. Day- No School

Thursday, January 23, 2025:

• Connections

Friday, January 24, 2025:

• Second Term Ends

Monday, January 27, 2025:

• Department Meetings

February 2025

Monday, February 3, 2025:

• Science Fair

Tuesday, February 4-Wednesday, February 5, 2025:

• MCAS Science Retest

Thursday, February 6, 2025:

• JROTC Archery Inaugural Regional Competition
• Connections

Friday, February 7 , 2025:

• Vocational Technical Community College Career Fair
• Quinceanera Ball

Monday, February 10, 2025:

• Department Meetings

Friday, February 14, 2025:

• Credit for life fair
• Midpoint Term 3
• Early Release

Monday, February 17-Friday, February 21, 2025:

• Winter Recess-no school

Monday, February 17, 2025:

• Presidents Day-All school buildings closed

Monday, February 24, 2025:

• School resumes

Tuesday, February 25, 2025:

• Connections

Wednesday, February 26, 2025:

• District Choral Jamboree
• 9-12 Mid year assemblies

Thursday, February 27, 2025:

• Senior Class Trip-Pats Peak

March 2025

Monday, March 3, 2025:

• Faculty Meeting

Wednesday, March 5, 2025:

• Art Show

Thursday, March 6-Friday, March 7, 2025:

• ELA MCAS Retest

Saturday, March 8, 2025:

• SAT Exam
• Coffee House

Tuesday, March 11-Wednesday, March 12, 2025:

• Math MCAS Retest

Thursday, March 13, 2025:

• Connections

Saturday, March 15, 2025:

• JROTC Drill Competition
• Winterguard Friends & Family Show

Sunday, March 16, 2025:

• Winterguard Friends & Family Show

Monday, March 17, 2025:

• Department Meetings

Tuesday, March 18-Wednesday, March 19, 2025:

• Methuen Scholarship Foundation Telethon

Friday, March 21, 2025:

• Early Release - Professional Development

Tuesday, March 26 - Wednesday, March 27, 2025:

• Grade 10 ELA MCAS

Wednesday, March 27, 2025:

• District Band Jamboree

Thursday, March 28, 2025:

• MHS Connections

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.