During a recent government meeting, representatives from South Bend Middle School and Zenetti Montessori Middle School showcased their students' achievements and experiences, highlighting the positive impact of their educational environments.

Principal Yara Gonzales introduced eighth grader Lule Yaki and sixth grader Camilla Rivera from South Bend Middle School. Lule shared her excitement about the school's STEM program and her growth over the years, while Camilla reflected on her transition from elementary school. She noted the larger school size, supportive teachers, and newfound freedoms, expressing enthusiasm for her English Language Arts class and plans to join the volleyball team in the spring.

The students emphasized the importance of a welcoming atmosphere, citing the school's bright renovations and engaging bulletin boards as factors that contribute to a positive learning environment. Camilla also mentioned her aspirations for good grades and making new friends, while Lule looked forward to college and career exploration with her counselor.

Following their presentation, Isabella Deangelis, an eighth grader from Zenetti Montessori Middle School, spoke about her school's academic success, particularly in the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) scores. She attributed this success to the strong personal relationships built between students and teachers, which foster a safe and supportive learning environment. Isabella highlighted that in 2023, Zenetti's eighth graders scored significantly above the state average in English Language Arts, underscoring the effectiveness of their educational approach.

Both schools demonstrated a commitment to fostering student growth and achievement, showcasing the importance of supportive educational environments in preparing students for future challenges.