Governor Baker visited Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School in Franklin, MA to see the interdisciplinary collaboration happening during STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Week. Baker attended a special presentation earlier in the month at Thermo Fisher Scientific, where Graphic Communications students from Tri-County were being recognized for their submissions to the smART creative science art Contest. Their artwork was prominently displayed at the company’s new manufacturing facility. After seeing their impressive work, Governor Baker reached out to Tri-County to see what other innovative projects the students were working on. Students and staff toured Governor Baker through several of the school’s classrooms and programs to showcase the vital work our students are conducting. “The Governor made me feel proud to be pursuing a non-traditional career path of HVAC&R and gave me great motivational advice,” said Emmaline Lafleur, Grade 12 HVAC&R student from Seekonk.
A few of the Career Programs Governor Baker requested to visit during his tour were Metal Fabrication, Engineering & Advanced Manufacturing, and HVAC&R to witness the updates and modifications that the Skills Capital Grant have awarded these career programs. “The Governor was surprisingly funny and made us feel comfortable. He shared fascinating stories and showed a great interest in Tri-County and its students,” said Michel Emile, Grade 12 Engineering student from North Attleboro. The Skills Gap Grant was launched in 2015 with the goal of replacing outdated equipment and technology, mainly at vocational technical high schools and community colleges. Since its inception, the program has evolved into a crucial component of local workforce training by expanding the number of young people and adults that are trained and experienced with the newest technology used by local employers. “The governor’s visit was eye-opening for the both of us, we were excited and impressed to have him interested in what we do, and he seemed impressed to see what we do every day,” said Lorcan Bergeron, Grade 12 Engineering student from Medway.
“Due to Governor Baker’s leadership, the State of Massachusetts allocated over 160 million dollars for program improvements in vocational schools. Tri-County has been fortunate to be the recipient of a portion of these funds, which were used to upgrade equipment and add new programs- such as medical assisting,” said Dr. Karen Maguire, Superintendent-Director of Tri-County RVTHS. Tri-County has been awarded over $1 million since 2016 from the Skills Gap Grant. These funds allow Tri-County to modernize labs to continue providing students with state-of-the-art equipment and advanced knowledge to support high school and adult education classes as well as provide training and placement for underemployed individuals.
Governor Baker was presented with an official citation commemorating October 20 as Governor Charles Baker Day at Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School from Dr. Maguire and the Tri-County School Committee. “We hope that the next Governor, along with our legislature, will pick up where Governor Baker left off and allocate funds to assist our communities with new building projects. This is a concern across the commonwealth as many communities are trying to find ways to rebuild some of our 50-year-old vocational school facilities,” said Dr. Maguire. Tri-County, built in 1977, is moving to the next steps in a proposed building project.
STEM Week is a statewide effort to boost the interest, awareness, and ability for all learners to envision themselves in STEM education and employment opportunities. This year’s theme for STEM Week was, “See Yourself in STEM.” Women, people of color, first-generation students, low-income individuals, English language learners, and people will disabilities make up an increasing portion of the workforce but are underrepresented in STEM fields.
Tri-County students and staff paired up for a variety of STEM activities. Check out the photos of some of the interesting collaborations from this year’s STEM Week.
Our Second Annual Middle School Open House was a great success. Over 300 families toured the TC campus, and the prospective students had the opportunity to ask questions of current students and work on an interactive project.
Thank you to all the current Tri-County families who shared the event information with their friends, neighbors, and families. If your eighth grader is considering attending Tri-County, be sure to encourage them to apply today! The priority deadline ends on December 30th, 2022, and we anticipate over 500 applications for less than 300 spots for the 2023-2024 academic year.
“I am so excited to see how the next four years of my son’s life goes. I’ve never seen him so excited about school before. The opportunities that you guys offer are life changing in so many ways and set these kids up for success. I am so excited to be part of the Tri-County family in the future.”
Thank you to the staff and students who helped make the day run smoothly. Your dedication and hard work was recognized but attendees.
Sixty-six Tri-County Seniors qualified for the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship. This scholarship provides a tuition credit for up to eight semesters of undergraduate studies at a state college or university. Eligibility for the scholarship is based on students’ first-time scores on high school MCAS testing.
Congratulations to the following students:
| Name | Town | Career Major |
| Marcus Altieri | Franklin | HVAC |
| Quinlan Anderson | Medway | CIS |
| Genevieve Aulenbach | Franklin | Health Careers |
| Lorcan Bergeron | Medway | Engineering |
| Michael Bergman | Wrentham | HVAC |
| Jack Bingham | Walpole | Culinary |
| Laura Birch | Seekonk | Health Careers |
| Kyle Blake | North Attleboro | CIS |
| Ryan Blanchette | Millis | Engineering |
| Zachary Blenkhorn | Medway | Engineering |
| Joseph Bobulis | Norfolk | Auto Tech |
| Faith Boutin | Seekonk | Health Careers |
| Noah Burbank | North Attleboro | CIS |
| Joseph Cady | Plainville | Engineering |
| Abigail Calamar | Seekonk | Graphics |
| Sophie Chrisom | Medway | Health Careers |
| Brianna Colby | Walpole | Early Ed |
| Teddy Connors | Wrentham | Plumbing |
| Alexis Correia | Seekonk | Medical |
| Grace Crowell | Millis | Legal |
| Ava D’Amadio | Plainville | Health Careers |
| Emily DeLuca | Bellingham | Legal |
| Ryan Ferdman | Millis | Plumbing |
| Sabra Flanagan | Franklin | Legal |
| Thomas Ford | Millis | Engineering |
| Daniel Friscia | Medfield | Metal Fab |
| Matthew Gilar | Franklin | CIS |
| Sophia Gill | Walpole | Cosmetology |
| Isabella Gulley | Walpole | HVAC |
| Timothy Harrington | North Attleboro | Engineering |
| Jeffrey Hill | Plainville | CIS |
| Jeffrey Hytinen | Franklin | Carpentry |
| Aidan Juhl | Millis | Engineering |
| Jennifer Kalick | North Attleboro | Health Careers |
| Noah Keating | North Attleboro | Plumbing |
| Savanah Keating | Wrentham | Graphics |
| Brenna Kelly | North Attleboro | Health Careers |
| Noelle Kennedy | Walpole | Health Careers |
| Natalie Kirby | Walpole | Health Careers |
| Brady LeBlanc | Millis | CIS |
| Kai Lopez | Franklin | Graphics |
| Nickolas Lubelczyk | North Attleboro | CIS |
| Alexander Majewski | North Attleboro | Electrical |
| Collin McEvoy | North Attleboro | Engineering |
| Derek McLeod | Wrentham | HVAC |
| William McNulty | Franklin | Auto Tech |
| William Merz | Medfield | Auto Tech |
| Perry Page | Plainville | CIS |
| Abigail Polvado | North Attleboro | Health Careers |
| Glicerio Quilop | Millis | Graphics |
| William Redfearn | Wrentham | Engineering |
| Kailey Rogers | Walpole | Early Ed |
| Elijah Santiago | Millis | Graphics |
| Ryan Scannell | Northbridge | Metal Fab |
| Micah Scott | Medway | Plumbing |
| Toby Sprague | Medway | Electrical |
| Ashley Sullivan | Walpole | Dental |
| Emily Swinamer | Franklin | Cosmetology |
| Matthew Taylor | Millis | Auto Tech |
| Bradley Tolmie | Franklin | Plumbing |
| Conor Velasco-O’Donovan | Walpole | CIS |
| Trevor Vinson | Norfolk | HVAC |
| Coleman Walsh | Millis | Graphics |
| William Weddeke | Medway | Engineering |
| Jeremiah Williams | Franklin | Engineering |
| Alan Zheng | North Attleboro | Electrical |
During the first half of freshman year, students complete a process known as “Exploratory.” Much like entering college with an “Undecided” major, Exploratory gives students a chance to test-drive several different career-focused programs before selecting their top choices. The Exploratory Program allows students to try out all sixteen different Career Programs for a half day each, then students select their six favorite programs to explore for a week each before making their final choices.
Freestyle wrestler Kyle Snyder, the youngest Olympic Gold medalist, the youngest World Champion in American wrestling history, three-time NCAA champion, and three-time World Championship gold medalist, held a wrestling camp at Tri-County in October. Over 100 participants gathered to learn the basic skills necessary to succeed in the sport by practicing different drills with lessons in between.
Snyder enjoys teaching through the Snyder Wrestling Series because walking into a crowded gym full of attentive wrestlers brings a smile to his face. “We’re trying to make sure that the kids who come here have a foundation. It’s valuable for me that they work hard and continue to improve,” said Snyder. By teaching his own wrestling clinics, Snyder is able to connect with wrestlers individually.
Two two-hour clinics were offered and were well-attended and received. “What an amazing opportunity for our area wrestlers to learn from one of the best,” said Michael Boulanger, Director of Milford Youth Wrestling.
November 28th-December 2nd
Our favorite time of year is right around the corner!!! Spirit Week!!! Student Council will be running a number of activities throughout the week where the classes can earn points toward the Cougar Cup. It will culminate on Friday 12/2 with our annual pep rally and Homecoming Dance. Tickets for the dance are $10/each and can be purchased at all four lunches beginning on Monday 11/14.
Schedule of Events for the week of November 28th through December 2nd:
There is a new student group at Tri-County called No Place for Hate. We are seeking 3-4 parents to help support this new effort.
NPH is a national program currently used in more than 1,800 schools. The program was designed by the Anti-Defamation League. Under NPH, students help combat prejudice and create effective tools to address it. NPH is designed to be STUDENT-RUN. Mrs. Maneri and Mr. Howley serve as advisors. At present, they are helping organize a diverse group of students, faculty, and staff to plan 3 activities to make TC the most inclusive place possible. We would like to add a few parents to the group we are assembling.
If you have a little time to contribute each month and help us out with this new initiative, please contact Mrs Maneri maneri@tri-county.org or Mr. Howley at howley@tri-county.org.
Whether you are looking for a new haircut or want to take advantage of our skin care services, call today to schedule an appointment or with any questions. 508.528.5400 ext: 167
There was a great turnout at the annual college fair held in October! Thank you to everyone who braved the weather to learn more about the different opportunities represented.
Tri-County prepares our graduates for a wide variety of fulfilling career and education opportunities upon graduation. Our alumni apply their knowledge to make meaningful contributions to society. Take a look at our Alumni Spotlights to see where their education has taken them and the lessons they have learned along the way.
Current Employer: Traveling Nurse Assignment
Current Job Title: Traveling Nurse
Current Location: Washington State
Hometown: Plainville, MA
Career Program at TC: Medical Careers (now Health Careers)
Year of Graduation: 2016
Sports/Activities at TC: Soccer, Softball, SkillsUSA, Manager of Wrestling Team
Tell us what you have done since graduation.
After graduating from Tri-County I went to school at Fitchburg State for my BSN. While in college I was the VP of the EMS Group for the campus. We would train and go on emergency calls around campus. I was also part of the Students’ Nursing Association. I graduated in 2020 and was a school nurse at Tri-County before transitioning to a role at Brigham and Women’s as a bedside nurse.
Has your career path changed since graduation?
I always knew I wanted to go to nursing school but I originally thought I would like to be an ER nurse. Now I would prefer to be a bedside nurse so I can get to know my patients.
How well did Tri-County prepare you for the challenges that you have faced, or will face, in your career?
Tri-County did a good job of preparing me for the professional aspects of my careers. I learned how to write a resume, put together a portfolio, and important job interview skills that put me a leg up when I graduated high school. I also gained a hard work ethic from my four years at TC. Being a CNA when I graduated put me ahead of the class when starting college.
What is the most exciting element of your career?
Being a traveling nurse. I enjoy that it is flexible and I am able to explore new place and meet new people. I am also gaining experience in various hospital settings which allows me to learn how policies and procedures can differ at each location. Each assignment is approximately 13 weeks long with the option to extend.
What is the most difficult thing you have faced in your career?
Seeing how each patient lives their lives outside of the hospital and how it affects their care. Nurses work with social workers to support the patients. Recently I worked with a new paraplegic knowing she had no place to go after her stay in the hospital.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to enter your line of work?
Make sure it is for you. Going to Tri-County helped me know this was for me because I worked in the field during school gaining real-world experience.
Be sure you have support during nursing school. It is an extremely stressful four years and consumes a lot of time. You need have a support system that understands that you will be unavailable for periods of time while you study and work towards your degree.
How did Tri-County support you in your career goals?
The shop and academic teachers are supportive and helpful. They gave me the necessary skills for my career. Earning my CNA at the end of my junior year and being able to actively use my CNA designation for a year while gaining experience gave me a leg up. This also gave me a glance at what I was getting into.
What is your favorite memory of studying at Tri-County?
Being in shop is my favorite memory. I had fun being goofy with friends while learning the skills I needed. The friends I met Tri-County I am still in contact with. I also enjoyed the non-traditional learning style of one week on and one week off. It worked well for me.
Imagine you were going to start high school over again- with the benefit of hindsight- what advice would you give yourself?
Don’t rush! Take your time and enjoy the aspects of being in high school and not having adult responsibilities.
Would you recommend studying at Tri-County, why?
100% recommend. It is a warm and welcoming environment that brings 11 towns together. It is a great way to meet new people you wouldn’t meet in your town high school. I also think the way the school is structured is good for learning. You alternate between academics and shop which worked well for me.
Starting Salary Range for Nursing Graduate:
$32/hr as a staff nurse in Boston
$42/hr as a traveling nurse and $130/hr holiday pay plus a tax-free moving stipend
Club Team Leader: Mr. Kanelos
Meets: Once a week on Monday, 2:30pm-3:30pm
Location: Upper Cafeteria
All skill levels welcome!
The Dance Team is a club team that welcomes all skill levels. “I believe everyone deserves the chance to dance, as a choreographer it’s my job to showcase everybody’s strengths,” said Team Leader Mr. Kanelos. Experience is highly recommended but not a requirement.
The Dance Team offers a welcoming and friendly environment that focuses on both the different styles and rhythm of dance. A variety of dance styles will be covered and rotated throughout the weeks & seasons. Students are asked to wear workout attire or something they will feel comfortable dancing in.
The Dance Team will perform at the TC Pep Rally in December, and this performance will be a mixture of jazz funk, and hip-hop. In Spring, club members will have the option to perform at Mr. Ks studio, Studio G Dance Company, 2nd annual showcase. His studio is located in Foxboro, MA. Performances are optional, but students are asked to commit to the dance season.
If you are interested in more information, email kanelos@tri-county.us or join us for a practice.
Tri-County’s Student Support Services Department has created the following hub of information for parents who are seeking support services for their student. It includes resources both at Tri-County and in the community. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dEXNFwkkWL0e7Q6HscgA5G3QVnTjGTTyAl4o4wwGaPc/edit?usp=sharing
Electrical Wiring students attended the Youth Remodeling Career Day on 10/18. These Electrical Sophomores won tools in a wiring contest. They had a great time!
Carpentry students went on a recurring field trip to an active Toll Brothers development in Holliston. Students visit the site at various stages during the build process and are walked through the project status by the project supervisor. It is an excellent opportunity for our students, which they appreciate! Thank you, Toll Brothers, for taking time from your busy schedules and supporting our program.
Tri-County students are always looking for ways to give back! TC athletes doubled their goal and collected over 600 non-perishable and personal product items in their Annual Food Drive to donate to the Franklin Food Pantry!!!
A beautiful installation by the graphic communications program showcasing colorful personalities and an inspiring quote.
Grade 9th and 11th-grade students toured the Carpenters Union Training Center last month and learned about career paths within the construction industry. They also learned about our articulation agreement with the Carpenters Union and were able to meet Sophie Odell, TC carpentry alum and Union carpenter apprentice!
Legal and Protective Services juniors, “The Fraud Squad,” will deliver eight presentations to local senior centers warning people about current scams targeting elderly people. Local police officers have informed LPS students about trends in these crimes that aim to scam people out of thousands of dollars every year.
Grade 9 students in Culinary Arts invited their families in to have the buffet that they helped make (with the grade 11 students)!
Students in the Early Education Program read and discussed the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s (NAEYC) Code of Ethical Conduct. Students then signed the Statement of Commitment to adhere to best practice protocols in their work with the children enrolled at the Tri-County Children’s Center. The students will display their signed Statement of Commitment for the preschool families and the community to view.
Congratulations to our Cheerleaders who are moving on to compete in Florida!
