Dear GNBVT Community,

This time of year invites us to pause and celebrate the incredible achievements, resilience, and lasting contributions of African American people throughout history. As we honor Black History Month, I do so with deep personal pride and gratitude.

As an African American Principal, it is truly meaningful to lead a school that, historically, has not always reflected diversity in its leadership. I can say with sincerity that I feel I am exactly where I belong—accepted for who I am, valued for what I bring, and supported by a community that believes in progress. That is not something I take lightly.

I am especially grateful for the opportunity to serve as a role model not only for our Black and Brown students, but for students of all races. Just a few generations ago, this reality would not have been possible. The fact that it is possible today is a testament to the courage, vision, and perseverance of those who came before us.

One such individual is Dr. Carter G. Woodson, often referred to as the “Father of Black History.” In 1926, Dr. Woodson founded Black History Week through the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). This week was intentionally chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. In 1976, this observance grew into what we now recognize as Black History Month.

Dr. Woodson was the second African American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University, following W.E.B. Du Bois. A distinguished historian, scholar, and educator, he authored more than 18 books and was a staunch advocate for Black education, upward mobility, and self-determination. His work ensured that Black history would be studied, honored, and preserved—not as a footnote, but as an essential part of the American story.

As we reflect this month, I encourage our entire school community to engage thoughtfully, ask questions, celebrate achievements, and recognize that history is not only something we study—it is something we live and shape every day.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege of leading this extraordinary school. Together, we continue to build a community rooted in respect, inclusion, and pride.

With gratitude ,

Warley J. Williams, III

Principal

Lunch Menu

GNBVT Website

Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Student Handbook

GNBVT Calendars

Student and Family Technology Support

Feb 16-20- Winter Vacation- NO SCHOOL

Feb 19- Possip Pulse Check- Sent to Parents

Feb 23- Classes Resume

Mar 10- Principal’s School Council Meeting: 3 pm – Lighthouse Cafe

The DEI & Community Specialist is available to support all GNBVT families in meeting

essential needs such as food, housing, utilities, clothing, and more. By connecting families

with local organizations, we can help you access vital resources in New Bedford and the

Greater New Bedford area.

For assistance, please contact the DEI & Community Specialist at 508-998-3321 ext. 752,

email maria.demelo@gnbvt.edu, or visit our DEI Website and click on the Community

Resource tab for a list of available supports. You may also complete a Family and

Community Referral Form to request direct assistance.

In addition, GNBVT provides information on “Know Your Rights” and “Plan for a Family

Emergency” to support our undocumented families. We are here to help and look forward to assisting you!

Support the 2026 After Prom by Purchasing a Gift Card Raffle Calendar!

We have only sold 109 calendars so far, compared to over 600 calendars sold last year. We truly need your help to close this gap and ensure the After Prom is a success.

$800 Worth of Prizes: 31 Days of Winnings in March!
Win up to 4 Graduation Tickets (Class of 2026)!
Winners’ names go back in for more chances to win!

How to Enter:

Submit your name, email, and $10 to purchase a calendar.
Your name will be entered into the raffle.
Wait for your name to be drawn!

Purchase Your Calendar:

Through GoFan: Click here to purchase
https://gofan.co/event/5778737?schoolId=MA22184

Or contact us: 998-3321 ext. 244 or 240

Winners will be announced on the GNBVT After Prom Facebook page and contacted directly. Thank you for supporting a fun and safe 2026 After Prom celebration!

FIRST ANNUAL VOC-TECH ART EXHIBITION
Showcasing the Creative Talents of GNBVT Students, Staff & Alumni

The Design & Visual Communication Program proudly presents the First Annual Voc-Tech Art Exhibition, celebrating creativity and artistic expression across the GNBVT community.

May 27, 2026
Michael Shea Student Forum

CALLIING ALL ARTISTS!
Submit up to three pieces by April 1, 2026.
Submissions are open to all GNBVT students, staff, and alumni via the Google Form

Submit: Google Form at gnbvt.edu https://forms.gle/RiV79PhXnKHq8Sku6

Questions or submissions:
DVC Program – Jenn Gaspar or Thai Panayakul
jennifer.gaspar@gnbvt.edu
| uthai.panayakul@gnbvt.edu

508.998.3321 ext. 232

Be part of GNBVT’s newest artistic tradition- don’t miss it!

Watch for the text/email message!

The Upcoming Meeting is Tuesday, March 10, 2026: 3:00-4:00 pm- Lighthouse Cafe.

The School Council is a representative committee composed of the principal, parents, students, faculty, staff and community members. The group discusses such issues as budget, curriculum, student handbook, School Improvement Plan and professional development of the faculty. The School Council meets 4 times per year, usually held on the second Tuesday of the scheduled month from 3:00 – 4:00 pm, in the school’s Lighthouse Cafe.

For more information, click the button below.

GNBVT will be conducting a state-mandated screening program for all 9th-grade students. The Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) program focuses on the use of alcohol, marijuana, nicotine (including vaping), and other substances, as well as the importance of making healthy decisions.

The screening consists of a brief series of questions. The goal of this program is to ensure students know support is available to discuss any questions or concerns related to substance use and to assist them in obtaining help if needed.

All SBIRT screenings are conducted confidentially by trained school nurses and counselors in private, one-on-one sessions. We utilize the CRAFFT+N screening tool, the most commonly used substance use screening tool for adolescents in Massachusetts.

Students who do not use substances will have their healthy choices reinforced. Students who report substance use or are identified as being at risk for future use will receive feedback and education. This program is focused on prevention and healthy decision-making and does not result in disciplinary action. If appropriate, students may be connected with counselors or community agencies for additional support. Screening results are not included in your child’s school record.

Participation in this screening is voluntary. Students may choose not to answer any or all of the screening questions. As with any school screening, parents and guardians have the right to opt their child out. If you do not want your child to participate, please email any of the school nurses by February 10th. You will receive a confirmation email once your request has been received.

• Screening Schedule:
• 9-2 students: During shop, Cycle 19 — February 24th and 25th
• 9-1 students: During shop, Cycle 20 — March 4th and 5th

We encourage all parents and guardians to talk with their child about the risks of substance use. Together, GNBVT and families can make a positive difference for our students.

Please contact the school nurses with any questions regarding this screening.
Nurse Casey Clarke – casey.clarke@gnbvt.edu | ext. 661
Nurse Tammy Tisdelle – tammy.tisdelle@gnbvt.edu | ext. 204
Nurse Kim Horsfall – kimmarie.horsfall@gnbvt.edu | ext. 791
Jaala Duarte – jaala.duarte@gnbvt.edu | ext. 205

If you have any questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact a member of the nursing staff:

• Nurse Casey Clarke – casey.clarke@gnbvt.edu | ext. 661

• Nurse Tammy Tisdelle– tammy.tisdelle.gnbvt.edu l ext. 204
• Nurse Kim Horsfall – kimmarie.horsfall@gnbvt.edu | ext. 791
• Nurse Jaala Duarte– jaala.duarte@gnbvt.edu I ext. 205

All Medical Forms are available online or in the nurse’s office.

ADDRESS:

Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School

1121 Ashley Blvd

New Bedford, MA 02740

508.998.3321

INTERNET/SOCIAL MEDIA:

WEBSITE: www.gnbvt.edu

INSTAGRAM: @gnbvoctechhighschool
X: @GNBVocTechHS