Medford Students Win National KIND School Challenge

MEDFORD, MA – Three Medford High School juniors were surprised to learn they won the national KIND School Challenge at an assembly in front of their classmates Tuesday. Rubia Fernandes, Luiza Barbosa and Jenna Agnone, members of the Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility, were named national winners for their submission, ELL Give Back Program.

Over 200 schools submitted entries. The trio's videos welcome immigrant students and help them to feel more confident by assisting them in navigating everyday tasks at school and in the community. Students who used the videos have found them to be helpful and welcoming, according to Medford Public Schools.

The teens received a $1,000 scholarship each. In attendance were Superintendent Roy Belson, Incoming Superintendent Dr. Marice Edouard Vincent, Deputy Superintendent Beverly Nelson, Associate Superintendent Diane Caldwell, Headmaster Dr. John Perella, State Representative Paul Donato and School Committee Members Kathy Kreatz and Paul Ruseau.

Making the presentation on behalf of the KIND Foundation and Harvard were: Dana Rosenberg and Kelsey Todd, from KIND and from Harvard’s Making Caring Common, Glenn Manning.

Photos courtesy of Allison Goldsberry/Medford Public Schools