This coming week marks Ally Week, a week where we engage in a national dialogue about how everyone in and out of school can work to become better allies to LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning) youth. 

Spectrum has planned a few events to celebrate the BHS LGBTQ community and its allies. You can participate in Be an Ally Week by stopping by our table outside the cafeteria to sign the Ally Pledge and get a rainbow ribbon. You can also wear rainbow, purple, or your rainbow ribbon on Tuesday, 9/26 to show your ally pride!

The Ally Pledge: 
I believe all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression deserve to feel safe and supported. That means I pledge to:

• Not use anti-LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) language or slurs.
• Intervene, if I safely can, in situations where students are being harassed or tell an adult.
• Support efforts to end bullying and harassment.
• Encourage others to be allies.

This school year I have the wonderful treat of sharing my classroom with the talented and bright Lauren Vigneau! I am thrilled to welcome her and learn from her! Here are a few fun things that Lauren wanted to share about herself as you get to know her:
​- Graduated BHS in 2006.
- Attended Middlesex community College where I got my Associates Degree in Graphic Design
- Continued my education .. to get my Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design at The New England Institute of Art.
- Currently finishing out my Masters Degree at Salem State University - MAT Secondary Art Education
- Also currently employed for Burlington Public schools.. Recently updated and redesigned the town and school website and currently teach 1st grade Elementary Art at Francis Wyman Elementary School.
- Love to paint, draw and photography.. when I'm not creating logos, invitations and other print media on the computer! 

It is wonderful to welcome Lauren back to BHS and once upon a time she was my student so this is an extra special year for me! Welcome Lauren!

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So it's the night before school starts and I have to share with my students that I get nervous too...

Yup, teachers are nervous the night before school starts. I am entering my fifteenth year teaching at BHS and I still get anxious and nervous about what is to come. 

There are a few things that I do now as a teacher that I wished I knew when I was a student....

• Get a good nights sleep- yes, just rest, let your mind rest and get the sleep you need. Try to make this a priority.
• Breathe- I had a great workshop this year on Mindfulness by Caitlin Krause. Just pausing, being present and breathing is wonderful for relaxing and good for your brain.

• Write lists- if something is on your mind, write it down-get it off your mind

• Sketch-keep your sketchbook with you and use it daily, hourly, just doodling can help relax the mind

• Enter each new school year with an open mind. There is always something new to learn and an open mind will help facilitate that learning

OK- so these are the typical steps that your parents and teachers share with you now I am going to share a more personal story- I didn't always like going to school. I felt isolated and alone. I was one of very few Asian American students living in a small suburban community and quite frankly it was quite difficult at times. 

So my advice to you if you find yourself feeling isolated or alone know that there are many other students who feel the same way. Know that you are not alone and know that we are here to support YOU! We want you to feel welcome and we want you to learn this year. If you are comfortable and happy you will learn more. So please reach out to us, please know that we are here for YOU!

My art teacher was my savior, she made ever student feel welcome and supported in her room and I hope to do the same for you. So come by room 217 anytime, make this space and the art room your second home; come by and create, relax and know that you are always welcome here!