By Bob Katzen

“For so many residents, life and finances get in the way of completing a credential. This pilot brings residents guidance and support to return to college, grow their skills and complete the degree they once started.”
—Secretary of Education Dr. Patrick Tutwiler announcing a new pilot program to re-engage some 766,000 students who previously began, but did not complete, degrees and certificates at the state’s public colleges and universities. The program includes direct student outreach and coaching provided by ReUp Education at six institutions: Bunker Hill Community College, Cape Cod Community College, Greenfield Community College, MassBay Community College, Fitchburg State University and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.

“As co-chair of the state’s STEM Advisory Council, I’m particularly thrilled to see this recognition go to a science teacher. Dr. Goodhue’s partnerships with local organizations and her ability to show students the science in their everyday surroundings are a great example of the work happening in Massachusetts schools.”
—Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll announcing that Tara Goodhue, the science department head at Lowell High School, is the 2026 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year.

“This year, we have watched the federal government launch deliberate and unprecedented attacks on trusted charitable organizations and programs that provide essential services to our most vulnerable residents. As we enter this holiday season, I want to remind residents that your generosity is more important than ever – and so is your vigilance. I advise everyone to review my office’s guidance on charitable giving, so that your generosity reaches those who need it most and strengthens the communities that rely on it.”
—Attorney General Andrea Campbell urging people to find guidance on charitable giving by going to https://www.mass.gov/info-details/giving-wisely-to-charity.

“By bidding in the auction or making a donation, you’re driving with purpose — helping ensure continued, critical funding for the highly trained teams who rescue whales and sea turtles,” 
—Massachusetts Environmental Trust (MET) Program Manager Kim Tilas announcing the December 1-15 upcoming auction of low-number Right Whale and Roseate Terns license plates as part of its Marine Mammal Conservation Campaign. The auction features 25 low-number WHALE plates, including #2, #6, #88, #617 and more. Sign up at https://e.givesmart.com/events/Mcd/ or by texting “Right” to 76278.