Winthrop High School Newsletter
Raising Funds for the Family of Martin Richard
On Saturday, May 11th, a bake sale was held for the family of Martin Richard. All proceeds went to the family of Martin Richard, through a fund set up for the Richard family with Salem Five Bank. If you could not come to the bake sale, you can send contributions to the Richard Family Fund, Salem Five Bank, 210 Essex Street, Salem, MA 01970. Checks can also be dropped off at any Salem Five branch.
WHS Drama Society
The Winthrop High School Drama Society performed the musical, The Wedding Singer, on May 9th, May 10th and May 11th.
Students of the Month
The Winthrop High School Students of the Month for April were Orges Alabaku, Brooke Bacigalupo, Casie Brazil, Sarina Cerulli, Kyle Dalton, Kathryn Fraher, Xena Herbert, Eric Keller, Alexander Kelly, Nicole O'Brien, Stephanie O'Brien, Bardhyl Peti, Juanita Saenz, and Mariah Ussia.
WHS Mock Trial
Winthrop High School’s Mock Trial Team participated in the annual East Boston Law Day Mock Trial Competition on Thursday, April 25, 2013 at East Boston District Court. The case involved a juvenile assault, and the students had to prepare both prosecution and defense. Defense lawyers were Dominic DeRocco and Michael Mazzone; prosecution lawyers were Caitlin Egan and Mark Tracy; Moriah Goldblatt was the judge and witnesses were Ana Aravena, Julia Ford and Julia Tracy.
Science in the Library
Mrs. D'Amore's biology classes have created stunning evolution projects that are displayed in the hallway on the second floor of WHS. Mrs. D'Amore's students conducted extensive research on the evolution of different species in the WHS Library. Students utilized the pathfinder created by the librarian to locate books, databases, and web sites on their topic. Students created works cited pages on their topic after being taught by the librarian how to cite sources, including images found in books and online. Click here to view a slideshow of the projects.
Boston Strong
On Wednesday, April 24, Winthrop High School students and staff showed support for all those affected by the attacks at the Boston Marathon by wearing clothing to represent our city and show how we are Boston Strong. Donations for the One Fund Boston to benefit the victims of these attacks and their families were collected all week in the cafeteria at all lunches.
New WHS Administration
We are happy to announce that Eileen Belastock has been selected as the new Principal for Winthrop High School. Ms. Belastock will replace Gail Conlon, who is retiring in August. We welcome Eileen and look forward to having her join our Leadership Team! Matthew Crombie has been selected as the new Assistant Principal for Winthrop High School. Mr. Crombie will replace Robin Kostegan, who is retiring at the end of the school year. We are also excited to have Matt join our Leadership Team!
Option for New Middle/High School
Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) has approved the Winthrop School Building Assistance Committee's preferred option of a new middle/high school project! By approving this option, Winthrop has moved into the final phase of schematic design. Once MSBA approves the final stage of schematic design, it will then go to the public for a vote.
Congratulations, Winthrop High School!
We are very proud to announce that The Washington Post has released its annual ranking of high schools, and Winthrop High School has ranked #14 in the state of Massachusetts and #845 in the nation. You can view the entire list at www.washingtonpost.com/highschoolchallenge.
MTV's Made at WHS
MTV’s Made is back at Winthrop High School! The popular reality show is featuring a group of 10th grade students who want to be “made” into an a Capella singing group. The students are Maura Lanza, Annie Mahoney, Carly O’Keefe, Jessica Vigliotta, Poli & Niki Tsiotis, and Michael Mazzone.
WHS Students in Costa Rica
Over April vacation week, Winthrop High School students Katie Beadle, Jianna Balian, Kathryn Fraher, Sabrina Hitaffer, Emilie Dean and Chiara Powers traveled with WHS teacher Ms. Benvenuto to Costa Rica! They had a very active and tropical trip zip lining and horseback riding through the rainforest, hiking to the top of an active volcano, and kayaking in Lake Arenal. During the trip, students saw sloths, crocodiles, iguanas, end even had monkeys stealing their snacks on the beach! They visited an elementary school in Monteverde and had a chance to experience traditional Cost Rican folklore and culture.
Viking Longship
During April, WHS students in the Viking Longships classes taught second and fifth grade students of Winthrop’s Gorman Fort Banks and Arthur T. Cummings Schools about Viking culture. WHS students showed the younger students various aspects of Viking culture, from the boat in the lobby to their own working replica of a warp-weighted loom. WHS student Cassandra Govoni is this year's class leader of the Viking Longships Project, and she helped teachers plan the successful Culture Day Visits.
WHS Student Leaders
WHS students Erostin Lushka and Kelly Russo have been chosen to participate in the Freedom Foundation Leadership Program in Philadelphia with all expenses paid!
WHS students Adam Holden, Jordan Corbett-Frank, Lexi Vacarro, Mia Simonetti, Erostin Lushka and Stephanie O’Brien have been chosen to attend the United Nations Pilgrimage for Youth sponsored by the Rebecca Lodge & Oddfellows Lodge with all expenses paid!
Congratulations!
Congratulations!
Massachusetts Young Playwrights' Project
Seventeen members of Mrs. Calinda’s Advanced Drama Class wrote original ten minute plays and submitted them to the Massachusetts Young Playwrights’ Project, sponsored by Boston Playwrights’ Theatre in conjunction with Boston University. “Misfortune Cookie” by Moriah Goldblatt and “Moving” by Michael Mazzone were selected as the school winners. These pieces were rehearsed and performed by professionals at the festival on April 10th. “Untitled” by Sabrina Hitaffer was the school runner-up and got a staged reading at the festival.
Student Government Day
Hats off to high school students Mark Tracy and Kelly Russo, who attended the Student Government Day on Friday, April 5th, at the State House. The students were accompanied by WHS history teacher Maria Flanagan. Mark played the role of Speaker of the House!
Winter Sports All-Stars
Congratulations to the following athletes who were named NEC 2013 Winter Sports All-Stars! Girls’ Hockey: Kara Donati, Captain, a Senior from Saugus; Gretchen Howard, 8th Grade Goalie; Julianna Kenendy, Freshman Defenseman; Caroline McKinnon, Sophomore Center; and Cat Salvetti, Junior Captain from Saugus. Boys’ Basketball: Josh Babb, Captain Senior Guard. Girls’ Basketball: Ashelyne Babb, Junior Point Guard. Boys’ Hockey: Chris Page, Junior, Assistant Captain. Boys’ Swimming: Mike Bruno, Junior Captain and Matt Bruno.
April is School Library Month!
Did you know that students who have access to a school library and a certified librarian score higher on standardized tests? Celebrate the valuable contributions of our nation's school libraries this April during School Library Month. Visit http://atyourlibrary.org for more information.
In support of National Library Week and Genocide Awareness and Prevention Month, the WHS Library has FREE unlimited access to the ABC-CLIO database, Modern Genocide: Understanding Causes and Consequences for the entire month of April. To use this database, please ask the librarian for the username and password.
Author at WHS
WHS teacher, Mr. Hamilton is a published author of the book, A Celtic Darkness. On April 1st, he discussed his book and the publishing process at the WHS Library. He also donated a signed copy of his book to the WHS library.
Students of the Month
The Students of the Month for March were Jennifer Adamson, Davis Beers, Brianna Bocchio, Sam Capone, Elizabeth DiBenedetto, Eric Fabrizio, Mike Ferrino, Kristen Ford, Sean Gillis, Christine Haskell, Marina Huenchunir, Christina Catherine Leone, Erostin Lushka, Nick Rizzuti, Juan Rojas-Gomez, Katelyn Tarrio, Anastasia Thano, Janelle Tritto, and Sela Zalwango.
WHS Drama Society
The WHS Drama Society recently competed in the Massachusetts High School Drama Guild Semi-finals with their production of “Winners.” Congratulations to Maggie Beadle who received the Stage Manager Award, and Alanna O’Connell and David Tracy who both received Acting Awards!
The WHS Drama Society also performed their play at WHS on Tuesday, March 19th.
The WHS Drama Society also performed their play at WHS on Tuesday, March 19th.
WHS Saves Lives
WHS students and staff donated blood at the WHS Blood Drive on Thursday, March 14th.
Massachusetts Association of Student Councils Conference
The annual Massachusetts Association of Student Councils Conference was held in Hyannis from March 6th to March 8th. The conference consisted of 3 days of leadership training and workshops, motivational speakers, statewide elections, and presentations of school and individual awards. The WHS Student Council received the MASC Gold Council of Excellence and was deemed as one of the most outstanding councils in the state, recognizing the outstanding programs, projects and fundraisers of the student council in the past year. Winthrop High School also received the Five Start Council Award, which honors the WHS Student Council for its contributions to all MASC leadership activities in the past year. Senior Erin O'leary, Junior Carly Corbett-Frank and Sophomore Jessica Vigliotta received the Commonwealth Award for their significant contributions to leadership, foundation and citizenship. Senior Mike Lessard was awarded the Presidential Medal for his leadership of the WHS Student Council this year. WHS Principal, Mrs. Conlon was presented with the Administrator of the Year Award for outstanding support of student activities. The students listed below attended the conference:
Seniors: Alicia DelVento, Erin O'Leary, Mike Lessard, Joe Gobiel, andJames Oliver
Juniors: Carly Corbett-Frank, Lexi Vaccaro, Diandra Gillis, Andrew Almeida, Eric Anderson, Jesse Rosenthal, and Adam Holden
Sophomores: Annie Mahoney, Christine Haskell, Mia Simonetti, and Jessica Vigliotta
Freshmen: Julia Duplin, Shannon Stimpson, Michael McSwinney, and Brian Perrin.
WHS Mock Trial Team
The WHS Mock Trial team prevailed over Lynnfield High School to win the regional division! They moved on to the Sweet Sixteen Playoff round and defeated Lexington High School on Wednesday, March 6th at the Massachusetts School of Law in Andover. The WHS Mock Trial team will be competing in the elite eight round of the playoffs on Thursday, March 14th, at the Massachusetts School of Law. Congratulations to the WHS Mock Trial team members: Ana Aravena, Carla Aravena, Leah Cautillo, Dominic DeRocco, Caitlin Egan, Moriah Goldblatt, Emily Kilroy, Michael Mazzone, Michael Melanson, Brandi Noseworthy, Kelley Russo, Katelyn Tarrio, and Mark Tracy!
WHS Students Receive Boston Globe Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
Congratulations to high school students, Russell Trainor and Mariah Ussia. Both students received awards in the 2013 Boston Globe Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Russell Trainor is the recipient of a Silver Key Award for his observational drawing of a skull entitled “Jonesy.” Mariah Ussia received Honorable Mention for an observational drawing of “Cloth.” Approximately 9,000 students entered over 14,000 pieces of art work, from which only 1,600 pieces were selected to receive Gold and Silver Keys. These works are on display at the State Transportation Building, 10 Park Plaza, Boston, through the end of March. Gold and Silver Key Awards ceremonies were held on Sunday, March 3rd, at the John Hancock Hall, 180 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA.
Massachusetts High School Drama Guild Festival
The High School Drama Society performed at the Annual Massachusetts High School Drama Guild Festival on Saturday, March 2nd at 10:00am. The festival was held at the Collins Center at Andover High School, and the production was “Winners” by Brian Friel.
WHS Students of the Month
The WHS students of the Month for February were Eric DeRocco, Carly O’Keefe, Arianna Estrada, Kelly Stafford, Tiana DiBenedetto, Carla Aravena, Pam Corso, Daniel Manning, Sam Millan, Harry Floyd, Simon Wu, Sela Zalwango, Michael McSwiney, Maria Rago, Rachel Rogowicz, Nicolae Opincaru, Robert Pino, and Kristin Johnston.
On Thursday, February 28th from 6:00-7:30 pm, WHS students presented their National History Day (NHD) projects to teachers, parents, and other students. For History Day, students picked a historical topic of their choice that related to this year's NHD theme: Turning Points in History: People, Ideas, Events. Since the fall, WHS history teachers have collaborated with the WHS librarian to provide students with opportunities to conduct primary and secondary research, use databases, and create annotated bibliographies. After analyzing their sources, students chose to present their work in one of four ways: creating an exhibit, website, documentary, or performance.
Click here to view a slideshow of History Day projects created by WHS students. At the Regional History Day Competition on March 2nd, the following WHS students received Honorable Mentions: Richard Aiello for his documentary on the Media and the Vietnam War, Erin O'Leary and Nicole O'Brien for their exhibit on the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire, and Julia and Mark Tracy for their website on the Beatles. Go to the WHS Library Webpage to view these projects.
Click here to view a slideshow of History Day projects created by WHS students. At the Regional History Day Competition on March 2nd, the following WHS students received Honorable Mentions: Richard Aiello for his documentary on the Media and the Vietnam War, Erin O'Leary and Nicole O'Brien for their exhibit on the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire, and Julia and Mark Tracy for their website on the Beatles. Go to the WHS Library Webpage to view these projects.
WHS Principlal Honored as Administrator of the Year
Congratulations to high school principal, Gail Conlon! She received the Massachusetts Association of Student Councils' Administrator of the Year Award!
WHS Sports News
The WHS Varsity Cheerleaders volunteered at the TD Garden by entertaining blood donors, staff and volunteers at the Red Cross Blood Drive. This is the third year they have been invited. The cheerleaders talked to the famous author/athlete Brian Boyle, and they were allowed to make it down to the ice to watch the Boston Bruins practice. For their constant service with the Red Cross, they have been entered in a raffle to get a scholarship for Winthrop High School from Bob’s Discount Store.
WHS Girls’ Varsity Basketball are the NE Conference South Champions! Congratulations to Captain Alyssa Mackey, Liana Ferullo, Temisan Meggison, Theresa Jones, Ashelyne Babb, Jenn Adamson, Kristen Siscamanis, Niki Tsiotis, Poli Tsiotis, Maura Lanza and Nina Bartlette. Hats off to coaches Ignacio Oyola, Matt Meservey, Julie Love and Frankie Fabiano.
WHS Helps Bring Water to Kids
WHS Girls’ Varsity Basketball are the NE Conference South Champions! Congratulations to Captain Alyssa Mackey, Liana Ferullo, Temisan Meggison, Theresa Jones, Ashelyne Babb, Jenn Adamson, Kristen Siscamanis, Niki Tsiotis, Poli Tsiotis, Maura Lanza and Nina Bartlette. Hats off to coaches Ignacio Oyola, Matt Meservey, Julie Love and Frankie Fabiano.
Congratulations to high school seniors, Josh Babb and Ervin DeJesus for being named Northeast Conference All Stars for boys’ basketball. Josh Babb was also nominated for MVP of the Northeast Conference and came in 2nd.
Congratulations to WHS Varsity Hockey players Dave Capone, Stephen Goddard, Chris Page, Pierce Lamberton, Ray Feeley and Jake McKinnon for making NEC All-Star team!
WHS Helps Bring Water to Kids
The WHS World Religions class is raising money to provide clean water to those in need, especially children. All proceeds go to UNICEF's Tap Project. WHS's goal is to raise $1000 for this cause.
WHS Drama Society News
The WHS Drama Society presented the Dinner Theatre production, “Life is a Highway” at Prince Pizzeria in Saugus, beginning January 27th to January 30th. Winthrop High School’s finest performers took viewers on a musical journey that included songs, such as “Mustang Sally”, “Life is a Highway” and “The Long and Winding Road.” Winthrop High School seniors, Maggie Beadle, Moriah Goldblatt, Alanna O’Connell, David Tracy, Jess Hickey, Emilie Dean, Allisyn Dernier led the cast of 37, under the direction of choreographer Jaime Montesano and music director David Limina. Proceeds of the production will help defray the costs of WHS’s participation in the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild’s High School Drama Festival and will also go toward the WHS drama scholarships offered to graduating seniors.
WHS Readers' Advisory
The WHS Library Web page highlights recommended books that are available at the WHS Library. View the book covers and information about these recommended books online!
Students of the Month
The Students of the Month for January were David Kirby, Erostin Lushka, Tahlia Maschang, Sean Magrath, Daniel Manning, Patricia Cabassa, Joseph Fabiano, Nina Bartlette, Taylor Reilly, Cara Hoey, Elizabeth DiBenedetto, Meg Dolan, Cal Garufo, Amy Sena, Gabriella Massa, Michael Mazzone, Marissa Gullotti, Lauren Paolini, and James Forster.
School Building Assistance Committee
The School Building Assistance Committee voted to move Option B, which is a new Middle/High School complex, as the preferred choice for review by the Massachusetts School Building Association. This is a momentous step towards our goal of a new middle/high school facility for our students and staff. There are still many steps to follow however we are pleased to be moving forward into the next phase. You can find information on our website at www.winthrop.k12.ma.us under School Building Assistance Committee.
Advice on Influenza Outbreak
The influenza outbreak this season has caused over 7,000 confirmed cases in Massachusetts, with over 700 in the Boston area. To help protect yourself and your family from the flu, there are several free flu clinics available throughout Massachusetts. To view a calendar of these clinics, click here. In addition, the CVS locations on Woodside Avenue and Saratoga Street administer flu shots every day. Visit the locations for more information. For more information on flu prevention and treatment, click here. Some frequently asked questions about the flu vaccine are available here.
Shakespeare Competition
High school student, David Tracy, represented Winthrop High School at the English Speaking Union’s High School Shakespeare Competition on January 26th. David presented a monologue from Coriolanus and Sonnet 29. David won the school competition, which took place on January 7th as part of the Advanced Drama class. Anastasia Thano took second place, and Alanna O’Connell came in third.
"Pink the Rink"
"Pink the Rink" was a fundraiser held on Saturday, January 12, 2013 at the Larry Larsen Rink at the Mike Eruzione Center. There was a high school hockey doubleheader. The fundraiser was in support of Leanne Silverman, a teacher, wife, and hockey mom who is courageously battling with breast cancer. All proceeds benefited the Marie C Petrilli Cancer research and treatment memorial fund.
Congratulations to WHS Honor Roll Students
Winthrop High School would like to recognize and congratulate all students earning grades qualifying them to receive Honors or High Honors. Keep up the good work!
List of High Honors Students:
9th grade: Catherine Johnson, Daniel Dell'Anno, Emily McGovern, Holly Benson, James Forster, III, Julia Tracy, Julianna Kennedy, Mackenzie Chiudina,Margaret Dolan, Nicolae Opincaru, Olivia Owen,
Samantha Capone, and Tiana DiBenedetto
10th grade: Amy Sena, Joseph Bosco, Kathryn Fraher, Lucille Floyd, Marina Huenchunir, Michael Mazzone, and Valentina Ramos
11th grade:
Alexandra Alioto, Eric Wadkins, Erostin Lushka, Jacqueline West, Libybet Rueda Gynn, Mark Tracy,
Mayomi Meggison, and Stephanie O'Brien
12th grade: Alanna O'Connell, Alessandra Scorzella, Alyssa Mackey, Angelica Giardina, Carla Aravena
Daniel Manning, David Gallo, David Tracy, Domenic DeMasi, Gina Giuliano, Jeremiah Driscoll,
Jordan Griffiths, Katelyn Tarrio, Liana Ferullo, Mario Mazzone Jr., Michael Lessard, Moriah Goldblatt,
Nicole O'Brien, Rigen Mehilli, Stephanie Hayashida, and Zachary Sullivan
List of Honors Students:
9th grade: Alexandra Kyriacou, Alexandra Scarfo, Alessandro Giuliano, Brandon Creador, Brian Perrin, Brianna Bocchio, Brooke Bacigalupo, Christina Leone, Domenic DeRocco, Elaine Peng, Elghali Khalfane, Elma Dulovic, Emily Kilroy, Erin LaVigueur, Gabriella Massa, Haley Curtis, Ivan Rodriguez Jr,
Jacqueline Mancini, Jake LaFratta, Jessica Nichols, Joselin Lemus, Josue Gonzalez, Julia Duplin,
Kimberly West, Lilian McGrail, Loran Shuka, Marie Williams, Matthew Bruno, Matthew Feeley,
Nicholas DiSciscio, Nicoletta Giardina, Noah Hodgkins, Olivia Grillo, Orges Alabaku, Rachel Torres,
Reise Turransky, Robert Gioiosa, Sarah Burnett, Shannon Mahoney, Tatiana Santilli, Taylor Reilly,
Taylor Thomas, and Victoria Scorzella
10th grade: Alexandra Mattarese, Ana Aravena, Ann Mahoney, Brianna Mulvaney, Caitlin Janielis, Caitlin Page, Carly O'Keefe, Chiara Powers, Christopher Murphy, Gina LoPresti, Helena Schreibman,
Jamie Gobiel, Janelle Tritto, Jessica Vigliotta, Juanita Saenz, Kelley Furey, Maura Lanza, Meaghan Barry, Michael St. Jean, Niki Tsiotos, Patrick Todisco, Polixeni Tsiotos, Sarina Cerulli, Sean Magrath
Thomas Chiudina, Thomas DiBenedetto Jr., Vanessa Dale, and Yadira Guerra
11th grade: Adam Holden, Alexis Vaccaro, Ariana Rodriguez, Bruna dosSantos, Cara Hoey,
Carly Corbett Frank, Christopher Capone, Emily Cernaro, Jacob Lloyd, Jesse Rosenthal
Jordan Corbett Frank, Justin Casilla, Katlyn Fennell, Kevin Furey, Liandra Reyes, Lorina DeRocco,
Marissa Gullotti, MaryKate Mancini, Michael Bruno, Michael Gennaco, Michael Melanson,
Nahuel Acosta, Rachel Rogowicz, Rachel Wadkins, Ross Mulholland, Taylor McCormack, Timothy McCone Jr, and Tristan Mirata
12th grade: Ashley Moore, Brandi Noseworthy, Brian Manning, David Sobradelo, Dustin Luu, Erin O'Leary,
George Lescay, James Oliver, Janelle Babcock, Jessica Serino, John Dalton , John Sheehan,
Joseph Gobiel, Justine Dorsi, Lina Gomez-Fernandez, Margaret Beadle, Maria Rago, Marissa Perrotta, Michael Salisbury Jr., Peter Gerow, Renee LoPresti, Rufo Barriga, Scott Bocchio, Sophia Grayson, Sophie Gillespie, and Temisan Meggison
List of Honors Students:
9th grade: Alexandra Kyriacou, Alexandra Scarfo, Alessandro Giuliano, Brandon Creador, Brian Perrin, Brianna Bocchio, Brooke Bacigalupo, Christina Leone, Domenic DeRocco, Elaine Peng, Elghali Khalfane, Elma Dulovic, Emily Kilroy, Erin LaVigueur, Gabriella Massa, Haley Curtis, Ivan Rodriguez Jr,
Jacqueline Mancini, Jake LaFratta, Jessica Nichols, Joselin Lemus, Josue Gonzalez, Julia Duplin,
Kimberly West, Lilian McGrail, Loran Shuka, Marie Williams, Matthew Bruno, Matthew Feeley,
Nicholas DiSciscio, Nicoletta Giardina, Noah Hodgkins, Olivia Grillo, Orges Alabaku, Rachel Torres,
Reise Turransky, Robert Gioiosa, Sarah Burnett, Shannon Mahoney, Tatiana Santilli, Taylor Reilly,
Taylor Thomas, and Victoria Scorzella
10th grade: Alexandra Mattarese, Ana Aravena, Ann Mahoney, Brianna Mulvaney, Caitlin Janielis, Caitlin Page, Carly O'Keefe, Chiara Powers, Christopher Murphy, Gina LoPresti, Helena Schreibman,
Jamie Gobiel, Janelle Tritto, Jessica Vigliotta, Juanita Saenz, Kelley Furey, Maura Lanza, Meaghan Barry, Michael St. Jean, Niki Tsiotos, Patrick Todisco, Polixeni Tsiotos, Sarina Cerulli, Sean Magrath
Thomas Chiudina, Thomas DiBenedetto Jr., Vanessa Dale, and Yadira Guerra
11th grade: Adam Holden, Alexis Vaccaro, Ariana Rodriguez, Bruna dosSantos, Cara Hoey,
Carly Corbett Frank, Christopher Capone, Emily Cernaro, Jacob Lloyd, Jesse Rosenthal
Jordan Corbett Frank, Justin Casilla, Katlyn Fennell, Kevin Furey, Liandra Reyes, Lorina DeRocco,
Marissa Gullotti, MaryKate Mancini, Michael Bruno, Michael Gennaco, Michael Melanson,
Nahuel Acosta, Rachel Rogowicz, Rachel Wadkins, Ross Mulholland, Taylor McCormack, Timothy McCone Jr, and Tristan Mirata
12th grade: Ashley Moore, Brandi Noseworthy, Brian Manning, David Sobradelo, Dustin Luu, Erin O'Leary,
George Lescay, James Oliver, Janelle Babcock, Jessica Serino, John Dalton , John Sheehan,
Joseph Gobiel, Justine Dorsi, Lina Gomez-Fernandez, Margaret Beadle, Maria Rago, Marissa Perrotta, Michael Salisbury Jr., Peter Gerow, Renee LoPresti, Rufo Barriga, Scott Bocchio, Sophia Grayson, Sophie Gillespie, and Temisan Meggison
News from Guidance
Salem State University is offering a dual-enrollement course at WHS in January! The course is sociology and is no cost to qualifying students! Please see your guidance counselor for more information.
Attention all Seniors: Guidance wants you to be aware of your deadlines and make sure that you get all your information into guidance no less than TWO WEEKS BEFORE your deadline. Also, check the guidance link on the side of the website for information on SCHOLARSHIPS! All seniors should be applying for scholarships; there's a scholarship for everyone out there!
Students of the Month
The Students of the Month for December were Alicia DelVento, Loran Shuka, Jacqueline West, Cara Hoey, Marie Williams, Samantha Capone, Kim West, Theresa Jones, Chiara Powers, Daniel Manning, Holly Benson, Allie August, Chris Pfeiffer, Maghen Donahue, and Mayomi Meggison.
WHS Holiday Show
Mrs. Karen Calinda's Advanced Drama class wrote the script for an entertaining holiday play. The play was performed on Friday, December 21st. Its actors included all of the students in the Advanced Drama class and Mr. Chris Donnelly's students and mentors. Mr. Brian Donnelly also provided assistance in filming.
WHS Supports Sandy Hook
The WHS Student Council sold Candy Grams during school lunches. Each Candy Gram is $1, and all the money is donated to the kids at Sandy Hook Elementary. All students who have donated have their names on green candy canes located in the cafeteria!
On Thursday, December 20, 2012, WHS showed support for all the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy by wearing green and white. On Friday, December 21st, at 9:30 AM WHS students and staff joined other schools across the country in spending serveral minutes reflecting quietly on this terrible tragedy.
AIDS Awareness at WHS
The WHS GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) and SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) clubs are sponsoring an AIDS/HIV awareness week at WHS. Students and staff are able to make a donation of $1 or more and receive a red ribbon showing their support. On Friday, December 14, WHS students and staff were able to show their support by wearing red in support of the (RED) foundation.
WHS Blood Drive
WHS students and staff saved lives by donating blood to the American Red Cross Foundation on Thursday, December 13th! The WHS Student Council hosted the blood drive and collected 47 pints of blood.
WHS Mock Trial
Ten Mock Trial students attended the National Institute of Trial Advocacy Mock Trials on Sunday, December 9th at the Boston Common Hotel. The program provides new lawyers with a week long training in trial presentation culminating in a full day of mock trials with students serving as jurors. The students who participated were Ana Aravena, Carla Aravena, Leah Cautillo, Dominic DeRocco, Caitlin Egan, Moriah Goldblatt, Emily Kilroy, Michael Mazzone, Katelyn Tarrio, and Mark Tracy.
WHS Teacher Honored as a "Teacher of Excellence"
Maria Flanagan, Lead teacher of the WHS Social Studies Department, has been chosen as the recipient of the 2012-2013 Educational Excellence Award by the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce! Past WHS faculty recipients of this award have included Neil Shapiro, Jim Nimblett, Chris Donnelly and Eva Kearney. Mrs. Flanagan will receive her award at the annual Chamber of Commerce dinner on February 1, 2013 at the Hyatt Harborside hotel at Logan Airport. In addition to Mrs. Flanagan, two WHS students, Jordan Corbett-Frank and Kelly Russo, will receive the Youth Leadership Award.
Open House
The WHS Open House for parents/guardians was held on December 4, 2012 from 6:00PM to 8:00PM.
WHS's Annual Toys for Tots Drive
Every period 2 classroom was assigned an age and gender of a child in need in the local Boston area. WHS students and teachers got involved and brought in toys for the age / gender specific assigned child for their period 2 class. About 750 toys were collected this year, making the toy drive one of the most successful in WHS history. Thanks for helping share the "holiday spirit" with others!
Students of the Month
The Students of the Month for November were Lucas Acosta, Alex Bellofatto, Domenic DeMasi, Meg Dolan, James Forster, Kevin Furey, Josue Gonzalez, Julianna Kennedy, Annie Mahoney, Brady Magrath, Michael Mazzone, Robert Pino, Tatiana Santilli, Katelyn Stimpson, and Mark Tracy.
WHS Cheerleading
The Winthrop High School Varsity Cheerleaders competed at the State Championship competition on November 18th and were awarded the Gerald H. Silverman Award. This is the first time that any Winthrop High School cheerleading team has won this very prestigious award. The MSSAA awards teams who promote hard work and superior sportsmanship, in hopes that other teams will follow in their footsteps. The team also placed 5th in the State.
Viking Spirit Week
To show their school spirit, WHS students and teachers dressed in spirit attire. Wednesday, November 14th was "Wacky Wednesday, when students and teachers wore miss-matched clothing. Thursday, November 15th was "Formal Day," as students and teachers wore collared shirts, suits, skirts, and dresses. Friday, November 16th was "Superhero" day," which involved dressing as favorite superheros- real or imaginary, Monday, November 19th was "Pajama Day," and Tuesday, November 20th was "Color Day," where students wore their class color (Freshman: orange, Sophomores: purple, Juniors: red, Seniors: black). Also, from November 7th to November 14, each grade brought in specific food items that were donated to the Greater Boston Food Bank.
Spirit Week culminated with the pep rally on Wednesday, November 21st. Students and teachers wore blue and gold to show their Viking Pride. Pep rally events included the traditional football kick and football throw, pie eating contest, human bowling, 3 legged relay, and tug of war. Several teachers volunteered to take a pie in the face at the rally. Students and teachers put money into a box for charity to vote for the teachers they would like to see take a pie in the face. WHS teachers Ellen Siscamanis, Chris Donnelly, and Adam Sullivan bravely took pies to their faces for the cause of charity! The 2012-2013 Homecoming King and Queen were Rufo Barriga and Alana O'Connell. Members of the Homecoming Court were Joe Gobiel, Alicia DelVento, Dave Gallo, Liana Ferullo, David Tracy, Alyssa Mackey, Mike Lessard, and Ashley Moore. On Thursday, November 22nd, the WHS football team defeated Revere (23-6) at the Thanksgiving Day game!.
Spirit Week culminated with the pep rally on Wednesday, November 21st. Students and teachers wore blue and gold to show their Viking Pride. Pep rally events included the traditional football kick and football throw, pie eating contest, human bowling, 3 legged relay, and tug of war. Several teachers volunteered to take a pie in the face at the rally. Students and teachers put money into a box for charity to vote for the teachers they would like to see take a pie in the face. WHS teachers Ellen Siscamanis, Chris Donnelly, and Adam Sullivan bravely took pies to their faces for the cause of charity! The 2012-2013 Homecoming King and Queen were Rufo Barriga and Alana O'Connell. Members of the Homecoming Court were Joe Gobiel, Alicia DelVento, Dave Gallo, Liana Ferullo, David Tracy, Alyssa Mackey, Mike Lessard, and Ashley Moore. On Thursday, November 22nd, the WHS football team defeated Revere (23-6) at the Thanksgiving Day game!.
Congratulations to the following varsity football players who were named Northeast Conference All Stars: Dan Feeley, David Gallo, Jordan Corbett-Frank, and David Capone. Honorable Mention was received by Rueben Powell, Thomas Lund, and Michael Ferino.
National Honor Society
On November 19, 2012, WHS students were inducted into the National Honor Society based on their positive attributes of scholarship, leadership, character, and service. Juniors who were inducted include Alexandra Alioto, Carly Corbett-Frank, Jordan Corbett-Frank, Jacob Lloyd, Erostin Lushka, Taylor McCormack, Mayomi Meggison, Stephanie O’Brien, Jesse Rosenthal, Libybet Rueda Gynn, Mark Tracy, Alexis Vaccaro, Eric Wadkins, and Rachel Wadkins.
Senior members of the National Honor Society are Carla Aravena, Leah Cautillo, David Gallo, Gina Giulano, Joseph Gobiel, Moriah Goldblatt, President Michael Lessard, Public Relations Alyssa Mackey, Mario Mazzone, Jr., Ashley Moore, Nicole O’Brien, Alana O’Connell, Treasurer Erin O’Leary, Maria Rago, Vice President Alessandra Scorzella, Zachary Sullivan, Treasurer Katelyn Tarrio, David Tracy, Julia Wallace, and Secretary Erin Walsh.
WHS Girls' Soccer Team
The WHS Girls’ Soccer Team qualified for the State Tournament. They were defeated by St. Mary’s of Lynn. Three members of the WHS Girls’ Soccer Team have been named to the Northeastern Conference All Star Team! Congratulations to Senior Captain Erin O’Leary, Senior Captain Liana Ferullo, and Freshman Mackenzie Chiudina.
WHS Drama Club News
On Friday, November 9th and Saturday, November 10th, the WHS Drama Club performed the play, "The Rehearsal."
WHS is proud of WHS alumnus, Emily Cramer (class of 2005), who will be joining the Broadway cast of Mary Poppins!
WHS is proud of WHS alumnus, Emily Cramer (class of 2005), who will be joining the Broadway cast of Mary Poppins!
WHS Parent/Teacher Club
The WHS Parent/Teacher Club is a group that helps support quality public education at WHS. The PTC works as a partner with WHS in providing funding for PSAT's, scholarships, class night dinner, and graduation coalition. Regular meetings are held throughout the school year to discuss concerns, issues and suggestions. Please visit the Parent/Teacher Club Web page to learn more about the club's activities and to learn how to join the Parent/Teacher Club.
WHS Teacher Honored
Congratulations to WHS teacher, Christopher Donnelly who was honored at the 32nd Annual Awards Luncheon of the Bay State Chapter “Freedoms Foundation” on Saturday, November 3rd at Spinelli’s Banquet Facility in East Boston.
Students of the Month
The Students of the Month for October were Flora English, Joe Marden, Robert Ascolillo, Bruna DosSantos, James Forster, Nicole Pucillo, Irene Salnier, Kianah Godfrey, Gina Giuliano, Erostin Lushka, Robert Fisher, Elizabeth Anderson, and Mariah Ussia.
WHS Varsity Cheerleaders
Congratulations to the WHS Varsity Cheerleaders who competed at Braintree High School in an invitational on Saturday, October 20th. The girls came in 2nd Place and achieved their highest “first competition score”, which is high enough to qualify them for the regionals. Hats off to Head Coach Rachel Mustone and our Lady Vikings: Alicia DelVento, Colleen O’Keefe, Nicole D’Andrea, Alana Farmer, Marissa Gullotti, Diandra Gillis, Kelly Swanson, Elizabeth DiBenedetto, Dakotahlynn Squire, Irene Saulnier, Jessica Vigliotta, Kelty Stafford, Emily McGovern, Paige McGovern and Angeleah Correale.
WHS 2012 Commendation Award
On October 17, 2012, Winthrop High School was one of only 64 schools in Massachusetts to receive a very prestigious award from Governor Deval Patrick in recognition of high achievement, high growth, and/or narrowing proficiency gaps that demonstrate their hard work and commitment to ensuring that all students meet the high expectations set for them. We would like to congratulate all the faculty at Winthrop High School for their hard work in achieving this award. To view the letter of commendation, click here. To view the award, click here.
High school senior Katelyn Tarrio received a letter and certificate from the Ancient Order of Hibemians according her the rank of “Apprentice Bard by virtue of her knowledge of Irish History” as demonstrated at the 2012 National History Day finals. Congratulations, Katelyn!
Breast Cancer Awareness at WHS
October is breast cancer awareness month. To honor those affected by this disease and their families, WHS students and staff wore pink on Thursday, October 25.
WHS Says No To Texting While Driving
On Friday, October 19, many students took a pledge to not text behind the wheel. Click here to view the slideshow of pictures from the assembly, and always remember; texting and driving, it can wait!
WHS Says No To Texting While Driving
On Friday, October 19, many students took a pledge to not text behind the wheel. Click here to view the slideshow of pictures from the assembly, and always remember; texting and driving, it can wait!
WHS Fundraiser
WHS students sold calenders during the month of November for the Parent Teacher Club Fundraiser.
The WHS Students of the Month for September were Michael Lynch, Amanda DiCicco, Sela Zalwango, Ann Mahoney, Michael Mazzone, Taylor Reilly, Eric Anderson, Joseph Fabiano, Daniel Dell'Anno, Michael Gennaco, Vanessa Arevalo, Kristen Ford, Emily Kilroy, and Zack Sullivan. Congratulations!
WGBH Super Sunday Quiz Bowl
Winthrop High School was chosen as one of the Massachusetts schools to compete in the November 4th WGBH Super Sunday Quiz Bowl. The following students participated: Michael Lessard, Nicole O’Brien, Mark Tracy, Eric Wadkins, Rachel Wadkins (alternate), and Elizabeth Anderson (alternate).
Congratulations to the following Seniors who have received the John & Abigail Adams Scholarship, based on their 10th grade MCAS Scores:
Carla Aravena, Janelle Babcock, Margaret Beadle, Scott Bocchio, Leah Cautillo, Jeremiah Driscoll, Guilherme Dutra, Michael Ferrino, Nicholas Floyd, David Gallo, Angelica Giardina, Gina Giuliano, Brikena Gjeci, Joseph Gobiel, Jordan Griffiths, Ashlyn Howard, Michael Lessard, Alyssa Mackey, Mario Mazzone, Jr., Frank Mazzuchelli, Temisan Meggison, Rigen Mehilli, Ashley Moore, Brandi Noseworthy, Nicole O’Brien, Alanna O’Connell, Erin O’Leary, Alessandra Scorzella, Jessica Serino, Ariana Shea, Zachary Sullivan, Katelyn Tarrio, David Tracy, Julia Wallace and Erin Walsh.
Carla Aravena, Janelle Babcock, Margaret Beadle, Scott Bocchio, Leah Cautillo, Jeremiah Driscoll, Guilherme Dutra, Michael Ferrino, Nicholas Floyd, David Gallo, Angelica Giardina, Gina Giuliano, Brikena Gjeci, Joseph Gobiel, Jordan Griffiths, Ashlyn Howard, Michael Lessard, Alyssa Mackey, Mario Mazzone, Jr., Frank Mazzuchelli, Temisan Meggison, Rigen Mehilli, Ashley Moore, Brandi Noseworthy, Nicole O’Brien, Alanna O’Connell, Erin O’Leary, Alessandra Scorzella, Jessica Serino, Ariana Shea, Zachary Sullivan, Katelyn Tarrio, David Tracy, Julia Wallace and Erin Walsh.
Winthrop Public Schools would like to thank Paul Levy, Owner of Woodside Hardware. He has generously donated desk lamps to all Winthrop High School students who received the John & Abigail Adams scholarship. These students were recognized at the school committee meeting on Thursday, October 25, 2012. They received a certificate of achievement and a desk lamp. Thank you, Mr. Levy, for your generosity and support of Winthrop Public Schools.
Juniors and Seniors Voting
On Thursday, October 4, 2012, Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo addressed the junior and senior class at Winthrop High School about voting. During lunch, eligible students at WHS were given the opportunity to register to vote.
PSATS
The PSAT was given at Winthrop High School on October 17, 2012. This test is mandatory for all sophomore and junior students. Winthrop High School is among the few schools that offer students the opportunity to take the PSATs in school at no charge.
2nd Annual Neil Shapiro 5K Fundraiser
Neil Shapiro was a long time, dedicated dramatic arts teacher and director at Winthrop High School, as well as an assistant girls' basketball coach. He passed at the young age of 48 from a rare blood disease called Myelofibrosis.To celebrate his life, former students, friends and family held a 5K race at Deer Island in Winthrop in his honor on Saturday, September 29th at 11am on Deer Island. 156 people participated in the walk/run. All money raised through the road race and the kick-off party was donated to the Viking Pride Foundation to fund WHS Programs. For more information, click here.
WHS Outdoors Club
If you are interested in hiking, rock climbing, camping, skiing, fishing, or snowshoeing, see Mr. Bell in room 220 if you would like to join the WHS Outdoors Club.
Music Fest 2012
The second annual Music Fest took place at the high school on September 21, 2012 to support the Music Matters campaign. For more information, please contact Kelly Russo. Thanks to all who supported and continue to support the Music Matters campaign!
James Otis Scholars
The following students have been recognized as the 2012/2013 James Otis Scholars and attended an awards ceremony on Monday, September 17th at Fanueil Hall, Boston:
Carla Aravena
Leah Cautillo
Jerry Driscoll
Moriah Goldblatt
Michael Mazzone
Frank Mazzuchelli
Brandi Noseworthy
Kelly Russo
Katelyn Tarrio
Mark Tracy
Congratulations!
Leah Cautillo
Jerry Driscoll
Moriah Goldblatt
Michael Mazzone
Frank Mazzuchelli
Brandi Noseworthy
Kelly Russo
Katelyn Tarrio
Mark Tracy
Congratulations!
Community Service
All students are required to perform 15 hours of community service per year as a requirement of graduation. Students' community service hours must be approved by the Guidance department prior to performing the service. To access all forms and requirements of the program, please click the link on the left under "Student Activities and Resources."