As we look forward to the coming of Spring, we reflect on how far we have come this school year. It seems only yesterday, our Class of 2009 Grade 8 students were only 6th graders. Their eyes were bright with wonder, excitement, and some trepidation. When they move on to high school, we will once again welcome a new group of 6th   graders, soon to become the Class 2012. It is my hope that our students leave the      Timilty still filled with wonder and hope for the future. The butterflies will be there as  students leave us; however, they can always rest assured that this community will      always be here to guide, to nurture, and to provide support in any way we can.
The theme of this month’s newspaper, “Strengthening Our Community Ties,” is so appropriate. At the end of May, we will celebrate our 23rd Annual Promising Pals    Breakfast— “This Is Our Moment: Strengthening Community Ties” - is our theme, and all year we have been celebrating all of the wonderful community connections that make The James P. Timilty Middle School a very special place. We have had our share of ups and downs, and I am hopeful that struggles with the economic crisis don't deter us from    recognizing that education is the key to our students’ success. I am also hopeful that new enrollees to our school have come to learn the “Timilty Way” and can appreciate why we work so hard to create a school that is focused on learning. We know that through   learning, all Timilty students can have access to the wonderful partnerships that we have cultivated over the past years. These partnerships have great impact on all students’  success.
This issue of the Timilty Times highlights a number of our community partnerships from science to technology, athletics, academics, and student empowerment. All of the partnerships are critical to every students’ success. And, all partnerships are possible   because we are unique. Our expanded learning time, ELT, provides the opportunity of more time at school to enjoy and integrate what is learned in the classroom with the  everyday living that each of us experiences. Few schools in Boston have this opportunity, and I ask every parent, every student, and every Timilty staff member to always speak up when anyone talks about budget cuts! Timilty students benefit so much from more time with adults and peers. We have the time to reach out to our community and time to allow our community to come and share with us at school.
“Strengthening Our Community Ties,” we are stronger, united as one community. Let’s stay connected to provide the best education possible for all of our children. Happy Spring!


Keep The Promise Alive
Valeria Lowe-Barehmi, Principal