Good Evening, Boston Arts Academy Families,

We are now in week six of the school year, and students are receiving their first progress reports. These reports are important pieces of communication--but they are not final grades. I encourage students to think of these reports as an indicator of where you are now, your progress to date, but not a statement of where you will definitely end up. The term does not end until November 8. If you are on the right track, keep up the good work. But if you are not where you want to be, you still have time to increase your achievement. Check in with your teachers, check in with your advisors, get the help you need, and make a commitment to improve. The adjustment back to in-person school has been challenging for many students, but we are here to support your success.

There is no school Monday in recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day, a newly designated day in the city of Boston calendar. Three years ago, as part of a Humanities civics project, Boston Arts Academy students proposed that the day be recognized by the Boston Public Schools. BAA's mission is to "prepare a diverse community of aspiring artist-scholars to be successful in their college or professional careers and to be engaged members of a democratic society”; this Humanities project is one of many opportunities we have in our curriculum for students to practice civil engagement. The students who did that work graduated last year, but I hope our current students see this day as an example of how those with a vision can achieve change.

Have a great week!