LHS PTO Forums
Connect with the LHS PTO
Upcoming Forums
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Who: Open to parents of rising 9th graders, in collaboration with Diamond and Clarke Middle Schools PTOs
When: February 29, 2024 (Date to be confirmed)
Where: LHS (exact location to be announced)
Description: Calling all parents of rising 9th graders! Join us for an informative and collaborative Parent Panelists Q&A session as we navigate the transition to LHS together.
This event offers valuable insights on curriculum selection, athletics, club activities, and more.
Engage with experienced parent panelists who will share their knowledge, experiences, and advice to help your child make the most of their high school journey. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions, address any concerns, and gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities available at LHS.
Let us come together as a community and empower our rising 9th graders for success.
Save the date and stay tuned for further details on this collaborative event!
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WHO: All interested Lexington families, adult caregivers and faculty
WHAT: Participants can choose up to 3 workshops to attend throughout the day.
WHY: The Parent Academy is designed to educate and empower parents and caregivers to manage the changing demands of parenting in today’s world, this is a free event for all interested parents and community members.
WHEN: Saturday March 23 10AM-3PM Online Registration
WHERE: In Person, Lexington Community Centre, 39 Marrett Street Lexington MA
CONTACT: Julie Fenn, Assistant Coordinator of PE, Health and Wellness with any questions. jfenn@lexingtonma.org
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Who: Open to all community members
When: April 4, 2024
Where: (Location to be announced)
Description: Join us for a crucial and informative session on substance abuse awareness hosted by Kristie Demirev, a respected Prevention Specialist. This event aims to educate and empower our community by shedding light on the dangers of substance abuse and providing valuable prevention strategies. Kristie Demirev will share her expertise, insights, and resources to help individuals, families, and community members better understand the impact of substance abuse and ways to address it.
This session will serve as an opportunity to ask questions, discuss concerns, and engage in a meaningful dialogue surrounding this important topic.
Together, let’s take a proactive stance against substance abuse and work towards a healthier and safer community.
Save the date and stay tuned for further details on this impactful event!
Past Forums
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Who: Open to LPS teachers, parents, caregivers, students and Lexington community
When: January 19, 3:30 - 5:00 pm
Where: LHS IDLC Room (Science building)
Description: Join us for an enlightening series of AI in Education Panelists Forums designed to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in the educational landscape.
The series kicks off with a keynote presentation by AI expert Amanda Bickerstaff, who will share insights on the role of AI in shaping the future of learning.
Following the presentation, Principal Baker will lead a community panelists forum, welcoming staff, students, and parents to engage in a dynamic discussion on the topic.
This event provides a unique opportunity to learn from experts, exchange ideas, and gain a deeper understanding of how AI can enhance education at LHS. Be part of the conversation that unlocks the future of learning. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for further details on this exciting event!
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Who: Open to all LHS parents and caregivers
When: January 12, 2024; 9:30 - 10:30 am
Where: LHS Library Media Center, room 149
Description: Join us for the 2nd Principal’s Coffee Talk, a casual and welcoming gathering designed to connect with LHS parents and caregivers.
This event provides an opportunity to engage in open conversations, ask questions, and address any concerns you may have about your child’s education and the school community.
The principals will be present to share updates, listen to your feedback, and discuss important topics related to LHS.
Enjoy a cup of coffee, meet other parents, and foster a sense of community as we work together to support our students’ success. We value your input and look forward to building stronger connections with our LHS families. Save the date and stay tuned for further details on this enriching event!
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Who: Open to all parents and caregivers of LHS students
When: December 20, 2023 @9:00AM-10:00AM
Where: LHS Library Media Room LMC 149
Description: Join us for a special Superintendent, Julie Hackett, Parent Q&A session with the Principals, as we review the progress made thus far and address any questions or concerns you may have. This event provides a valuable opportunity to connect with the principals and engage in meaningful conversations about your child’s education and school experience. Get updates on school initiatives, curriculum, and upcoming events, and have your voice heard by sharing your input and feedback. We highly value your partnership in supporting your child’s academic journey, and this event aims to further strengthen that relationship. To enhance your experience, a continental breakfast will be served. Mark your calendars for this essential gathering and stay tuned for further details!
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Who: This event is open to all high school and middle school parents and caregivers
When: December 19, 2023
Where: Lexington High School Library Media Room 149
Description: Calling all parents and caregivers! Join us at our upcoming PTO-sponsored forum Parenting with Confidence. Now that results of the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) are in, come learn how to gain the confidence and knowledge needed to navigate important health education conversations with your student.
Led by Julie Fenn, this forum aims to empower parents and provide support and guidance in discussing topics like health education, health literacy and sexual relationships. Julie will share practical tips, tools and strategies to create an open and supportive environment at home.
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Join Julie Fenn from School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) in this Community Q&A on 2023 YRBS results
Who: Open to all members of the community
When: December 6, 2023, 7 pm
Where: LHS library media center 147-149
Description: Join us for a special event featuring Julie Fenn from the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) as she presents the results of the 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS). This community Q&A session will provide valuable insights into the health and well-being of our students. It is an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the survey findings, ask questions, and engage in meaningful discussions. We invite all members of the community to attend and contribute to this important conversation. Together, we can work towards promoting the health and safety of our students.
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When: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 @7:00PM-8:30PM
Where: LHS Science Hall. Lexington and LexMedia Youtube Livestream
Description: How do we build a community of kindness and support for everyone so they can be open about their struggles, access services, and find compassion here?
Hosted by: the Collaborative Reform Committee, a partnership between The Commission on Disabilities and The Lexington Human Rights Committee
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Join the Principals to address any questions about LHS
When: Wednesday October 11th @9:00AM-10:00AM
Where: Library Media Center LHS
Who: For all families new to Lexington
Description: This in-person gathering specifically designed for families new to Lexington. This is your opportunity to ask questions, address any concerns you may have about your students or the school, and get to know our principals in a relaxed and welcoming environment. We understand that transitioning to a new school can be overwhelming, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Bring your questions, meet other families, and enjoy a cup of coffee while engaging in meaningful conversations. We look forward to meeting you and helping you feel more connected to our school community
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Join The LHS Counselors To Discuss Students Emotional Journey
When: Friday October 6th @8:45 AM-9:30 AM
Where: Library Media Center LHS
Who: For all parents of Seniors in High School in the Town of Lexington
Description: This in-person gathering is for parents, caregivers, and counselors to meet and discuss how to support each other and their students during this time of excitement, anticipation and transition.
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Co-leaders: Joanne Loomer, LHS Social Worker and Scott Schaming, LHS Counselor
WHO: For All Parents of Seniors in High School in the Town of Lexington. This is inperson only workshop will not be recorded.
WHEN: May 23 2023 8:45-10:00 AM
WHERE: Lexington High School Library Media Center (map)
DESCRIPTION: This in-person workshop will cover various topics including the developmental changes for students and parents, important conversations to have with your student prior to leaving home, the summer of mixed emotions and the countdown to the launch, college resources for a smoother transition, managing homesickness, and what to expect with the first visit home. This workshop is sponsored by the LHS PTO
CONTACT: For questions, contact Joanne Loomer, LICSW (she/her) LHS Social Worker, Rm 156 E, 781-861-2320 ext.69194 jloomer@lexingtonma.org
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May 01 2023 at 5pm
Who should attend: Parents of LHS StudentsItem description
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WHEN: Wed, Apr 12, 7–8:30pm
WHERE: Virtual Presentation; Zoom link Join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android: https://stanford.zoom.us/j/92111774611?pwd=SXY5Ny9Ma2wyc0Z4UHF3Ti9QazNwQT09
Password: 060400
Meeting ID: 921 1177 4611
WHO: All Lexington parents/caregivers/guardians and community members are invited to this presentation
DESCRIPTION: Join us for an upcoming presentation by Stanford University’s Dr. Bonnie Halpern-Felsher. New vaping products are infiltrating the market, including new disposable e-cigarettes, e-cigarettes shaped like watches and other household products, and even “non-nicotine” and cannabis vapes, as well as oral nicotine products. Adolescents and young adults are using these products more often than combustible cigarettes. This presentation will provide detailed information about these new products, including information on nicotine levels, addiction risks, health effects, and marketing of these products. The presentation will also provide information on reasons for adolescent use of these products, including flavors, appeal, marketing, perceived reduced harm, stress, anxiety, and depression, along with other misperceptions about the products. Dr. Halpern-Feisher will also provide evidence-based resources that can be used to help prevent and reduce use of these products, as well as advocacy efforts occurring in the United States to reduce use.
At the end of this presentation, parents will:
· Understand the different vaping, tobacco, and cannabis products that youth are using
· Understand the reasons why youth are using these products
· Leave with resources and tools to help identify, prevent, counsel and treat youth regarding vaping
This presentation is sponsored by the School Health Advisory Council “SHAC”, LPS PE, Health & Wellness Department, the LHS PTO, and the Lexington Human Services Department.
The LHS Counseling Department and health classes are participating in a study with Stanford University to evaluate their vaping prevention curriculum. Bonnie Halpern-Felsher, PhD, FSAHM (pronouns: she/her), the head of this study, is the Marron and Mary Elizabeth Kendrick Professor in Pediatrics II and Director of the Stanford REACH Lab | Division of Adolescent Medicine at Stanford University. Her bio: https://profiles.stanford.edu/bonnie-halpern-felsher
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Moderated by our own LHS Associate Principal Andy Baker, this forum featured...
o Speaker Julie Fenn
o Recent and past LHS graduates
o Parents of graduates
...all of whom shared their experiences and advice on navigating Life after LHS with current high school students and parents.
Find out about gap year/semester, college pre-professional tracks, sports, conservatory music, military options, transitioning, overcoming executive function challenges, and more!
This forum was designed with Juniors and Seniors in mind, but is suitable for all curious students and members in our community!
Please note this was an in-person only event!
When: Wednesday, March 29, 7pm to 8:30pm
Where: LHS Auditorium
Questions? Email ctelliez@gmail.com or forums_2@lhspto.org
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WHO: All interested Lexington families, adult caregivers and faculty
WHAT: Participants can choose up to 3 workshops to attend throughout the day.
WHY: The Parent Academy is designed to educate and empower parents and caregivers to manage the changing demands of parenting in today’s world, this is a free event for all interested parents and community members.
WHEN: Saturday March 11 10AM-3PM Online Registration https://www.lexsepta.org/event-5186072
WHERE: In Person, Lexington Community Center 39 Marrett Street Lexington MA
CONTACT: Julie Fenn, Assistant Coordinator of PE, Health and Wellness with any questions. jfenn@lexingtonma.org
SPONSORED BY: The Lexington Public Schools SHAC (School Health Advisory Council), Town of Lexington Human Services dept., Town of Lexington Recreation dept., BALex (Bangladeshi Americans of Lexington), CAAL (Chinese American Association of Lexington), CALex (Chinese Americans of Lexington), Human Rights Committee, IAL (Indian Americans of Lexington), JPLex(Japan Support Group of Lexington), KOLex (Koreans of Lexington),JPLex (Japan Support Group of Lexington), LexFun (Lexington's 5-and-under Network), LexPride, LexSEPTA (Lexington Special Education PTA), LHS PTO Forums Committee, PPC (PTO Presidents Council)
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WHO: All interested K-12 families (adult caregivers), educators/faculty, students, and community members.
WHEN: Monday, February 6th, 2023 Time: 7:00 - 9:00 PM
WHERE: Virtual Event https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84041592668
DESCRIPTION: Join the LHS PTO & School Health Advisory Council “SHAC” for a presentation by the Greater Boston PFLAG, an organization whose mission is to provide support for families with LGBTQ youth. During this 90-minute presentation, the panel will share their personal experiences, talk about what is and isn’t helpful and discuss easy ways we all can help." This forum will be virtual, with a brief SHAC business meeting 7:00-7:15pm followed by the presentation.
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When: Jan 30th to March 1st 2023 for submissions, March 15th for awards announcement and In person celebration later in March
Where: Online at mytruthis.org
Contact/Sponsor: Deepika Sawhney
For questions for PTO outreach organizers please use sawhney.deepika@gmail.com
For questions from parents about the competition please use lexmytruthis@gmail.com
Short Description:
“My Truth is …” is an essay writing competition for young students between 3rd grade to high school, who study in Lexington. The students can submit a 650 word essay which tells a story about them. It can be about an idea or wish, a unique experience or event, an aspiration or even something very simple as a favorite activity or food. The essay should be authentic and be genuine such that it centers the content in the child’s life.
Lexington children's experiences are rich and varied. Their truthful reflections can give a unique perspective on life in our town. Reflecting and writing is a skill that requires much practice and iteration. In order to foster town talent a group of Lexington civic, elected and spiritual leaders are hosting the writing competition. The competition will run from January 30th to March 1st 2023. Results will be announced March 15th 2023, and winners will be celebrated in an in person event in Lexington. Please visit the website https://www.mytruthis.org/ for more details.
Description: https://www.mytruthis.org/
Judges Panel: https://www.mytruthis.org/judges
Online Submission Form: https://www.mytruthis.org/home/seafaring-67xyl
Awards: https://www.mytruthis.org/home/awards
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WHO(Attendance): Suitable for students and adults ages 12 years and older.
When: Monday January 30, 2023. 7pm-9pm, Please arrive promptly
Where: In-Person Event, Lexington High School Science Lecture Hall (map)
RSVP here
Please email questions here
DESCRIPTION: Join us right here at LHS to hear Sarah Ward, who will present a seminar on executive function skills for students with speech-language and brain-based learning challenges. Sarah is an internationally recognized expert in the assessment and treatment of executive functioning deficits. She has over twenty-five years of experience in diagnostic evaluations, treatment and case management of children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of developmental brain-based learning difficulties including:
• Attention Deficit Disorder
• Verbal Learning Disabilities
• Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities
• Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Other Social-Cognitive Learning Disabilities
This event is co-sponsored by the LHS PTO and the Lexington Special Education Parent Advisory Council (LexSEPAC/SEPTA).
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If you missed the recent Forum with Natasha Warikoo discussing her book Race to the Top: Asian Americans and Whites in Pursuit of the American Dream in Suburban Schools, you can still view the recording here.
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Dec 2022
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The LHS community is invited to a Q&A with the LHS Counseling Department. This forum is sponsored by the LHS PTO.
Nov 9th, 9am, Lexington Community Center
The Counseling Department invites parents to submit any questions they may have so the counselors can address them at this forum. Please fill out this form to help them put together a session that brings you the information you are looking for!
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STRATEGIES TO PROMOTE FLEXIBLE THINKING, ENHANCE WORKING MEMORY, AND SUSTAIN ATTENTION AND MORE, HELP STUDENTS BETTER MANAGE DAILY SCHOOL WORK AND LONGTERM ASSIGNMENTS
Join Engaging Minds to learn more about executive function and the skills it encompasses and gain actionable strategies for students to use at home to help strengthen these important skills. Suitable for students grades 5-12.
• DATE and TIME: MONDAY, OCTOBER 24 2022 at 7PM
• WHERE: ONLINE VIRTUAL EVENT-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
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Oct 15, 2021
Jan.: Life After LHS: LHS alums talk to current kids and parents about the college experience.
Feb.: Johnny Cole, director of equity and student support at LHS, shares his wisdom and takes your questions.
March: Social Media, Social Anxiety: Helping your Screenager During These Turbulent Times: A sharing session for parents.
Going to LHS: Evening session for eighth-grade parents about the LHS community and how to stay involved.
April: Substance Abuse Forum: Wellness and prevention experts Julie Fenn and Kristie Demirev help with your concerns and let you know what help is out there.
May: Healthy Relationships: Shafia Zaloom, a leading voice on issues of consent and mutual growth and respect in young relationships, comes back to LHS after her past forums have received praise and appreciation from our community! "My work may sound like it’s about consent. But in truth it’s really about love and connection," as she puts it
For any questions please contact forums_1@lhspto.org -
Apr 5, 2022
PTO Forum: Healthy Relationships
Date: Thursday, April 26th, 2022
Time: 7:00pm
Location: Zoom
Shafia Zaloom is one of the nation's leading and most skillful voices helping parents with conversations about teen sexuality, especially helping our children navigate the insistent, distorted and harmful messaging they receive constantly about sex and relationships. She's looking forward to sharing her wisdom with the Lexington PTO, and invites you to bring her your issues and concerns!
Please rsvp here, and share any questions and concerns you have about parenting, teen relationships and sexuality on this separate, anonymous form. We're looking forward to a Forum that matches Shafia's style - honest and direct, but also compassionate and warmhearted.
Read more about Shafia here.
Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 875 3027 4377
Passcode: 560237
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Meeting ID: 875 3027 4377 -
Jan 20, 2022
Date: Monday, February 7th, 2022
Time: 7:00 pm
Location: Zoom link here
Please join this LHS PTO & School Health Advisory Council “SHAC” forum for parents, educators, students, and community members of all gender identities and sexual orientations as Jeff Perrotti, MA Department of Education’s Safe School’s for LGBTQ+ Youth and a panel who will share their personal experiences, talk about what is and isn’t helpful and discuss easy ways we all can help.
Please contact forums_1@lhspto.org with any LHS PTO Forums questions. -
Oct 21, 2021
Topic: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Date: Tuesday, January 18th, 2022
Time: 7:00 pm
Location: Zoom link here
Please join this LHS PTO forum with Johnny Cole, Director of Equity and Student Support at LHS. Learn more about the district's DEI initiatives, progress and priorities. Take a deeper dive into LPS’ core value “We All Belong” and explore opportunities to mirror the work happening in our schools with your family and community. This session is also an opportunity to ask questions and discuss the challenges and triumphs caregivers experience as we navigate these issues with our own families.
For any questions please contact forums_1@lhspto.org -
October 13, 2021
Date: Monday, December 20th, 2021
Time: 7:00 pm
Location: Zoom link here
Principal Stephens discusses the school's approach to meeting the challenges of this demanding and unpredictable year. He'll speak during the first half of the hour and respond to written questions in the Q and A during the second. Registration will be available next week.
For any questions please contact forums_1@lhspto.org -
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October 28, 2020
During COVID, whether in a hybrid or fully remote model, executive function skills have become increasingly important for students of all ages. Join Engaging Minds to learn actionable strategies you can use at home to help strengthen your teen’s executive function skills and keep them on a successful path this school year.When: November 9, 7-8:15pm
Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VZvUejZcSMy99NPXJLFa6w -
October 14, 2020
When: Tuesday, October 27, 9–10:30 am
Zoom: link to follow
LA forum on Parenting with Presence, Persistence, and Possibility. Hosted by Julie Fenn and Kristie Demirev of LPS PE, Health, and Wellness. -
September 28, 2020
The LHS community is invited to a virtual parent/guardian Q&A with the LHS Counseling Department - sponsored by the LHS PTO
When: Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2020 9-10am
Virtual Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/98237298235
or iPhone one-tap: US: +19292056099,,98237298235# or +13017158592,,98237298235#
Counselors will answer questions around supporting students at LHS, and share:
grade-specific information
how to access available supports
social-emotional resources
Telephone Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 929 205 6099 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799
Webinar ID: 982 3729 8235
International numbers available: https://zoom.us/u/ aboVXnmnN1
Questions? Contact Upasna C. -
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Parenting Strategies While Quarantined
Practical approaches to talking with teens and strategies for promoting healthy decision-makingView Presentation Slides(6/2/20)
View Resource List(6/2/20)
Seminar with: Julie Fenn, LICSW, LPS Assistant Coordinator of PE, Health & Wellness & Kristie Demirev, LICSW, LPS PE, Health and Wellness Prevention Specialist
When: Tuesday, June, 2nd at 10:00 amWhere: Join Zoom Meeting
Who Should Attend: Parents of Middle and High School Students The current pandemic has created new challenges for parents of teens.
Questions: Email Jen Roney or Upasna Chhabra at forums@lhspto.org
As we all navigate these challenges and the ongoing pandemic, teens are still at risk for engaging in unhealthy, risky behaviors. This interactive seminar will provide practical approaches to talking with teens and strategies for promoting healthy decision-making, including: Substance abuse prevention, warning signs and how to talk to teens when concerns arise When and how to gather with peers safely Preventing risky online behaviors (e.g. sexting & online bullying) What red flags parents should be alert for around depression/self-harm
Sponsored by the LHS, Clarke, and Diamond PTOs -
February 25, 2020
When: To be rescheduled at a later date
Where: LHS Auditorium
Watch TRAILER
Not talking about racism won’t make it go away. The middle and high school PTOs are excited to present a free community screening and moderated discussion of the documentary I’m Not Racist...Am I? in support of the district’s ongoing work on DEI (diversity, equality, and inclusion). We hope this film will spark curiosity, conversations, and connections that empower our community to make positive systemic changes. Middle and high school faculty will be viewing and discussing the film during an upcoming professional development day, and the March 25 screening will be an opportunity for parents, students, and the broader community to join the conversation about how to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in our schools, our town, and our own lives.
I’m Not Racist… Am I? is a feature documentary about how this next generation is going to confront racism. The filmmakers asked 12 teenagers from New York City to come together for one school year to talk about race and privilege in a series of workshops and in conversations with friends and family members. They hope that by documenting their experience, the film will inspire others to recognize and interrupt racism in their own lives. -
February 12, 2020
When: February 25, 2020, 7pm
Where: LHS Science Lecture Hall
What does it take to become an adult? What skills and competencies should young adults learn and develop in order to grow into independent, all-around successful adults?
Come hear Greg Victory, the Executive Director of Tufts University Career Center who will be in Lexington for one evening on February 25th to share his advice and knowledge around the skills and competencies our young adults need to practice and develop throughout high school and college. Greg has spoken to and advised thousands of parents and their students, sharing his deep expertise in ushering young adults through their life in college towards a successful adulthood. This talk is appropriate for both adults and young adults/students. -
February 11, 2020
When: Wednesday, April 29, 2020 at 7 pm in the LHS Science Lecture Hall
Speaker: Joani Geltman, MSW
Knowledge is power!! Learn about what drives a teen’s addiction to social networking, and gaming. Learn about the Apps your teen is using, and how to monitor, control and keep them emotionally safe as they live in their virtual world.
Understand how the “emotional brain” of a teen gets “turned on” by social networking
Understand how the “Imaginary Audience” influences your teen’s performing on social media
Learn which apps are safe and unsafe
Learn strategies to monitor and set limits around phone and internet use
Learn how your own behavior with phones and computers can positively and negatively influence your teen
This is a free event co-sponsored by the Clarke, Diamond, & LHS PTOs. All parents and guardians are welcome. For questions, contact forums@lhspto.org.