Good News from Bristol-Plymouth Voc Tech

Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School students received free sneakers from local business Well Adapted. From left to right, School Resource Officer Jayson LaPlante, Ryan Monteiro-Delgado, Well Adapted owner "G", Jeffrey Dutra, and Melina Cortinheiro. (Photo courtesy Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School)

TAUNTON — Superintendent Alexandre Magalhaes and Principal Karen Guenette are pleased to share that three Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School students received free sneakers from a local business this week through a partnership with the Helping Students, Education, Respect Building, and Outreach (HERO) program.

On Thursday, Dec. 19, three Bristol-Plymouth students were recipients of the "A Step in the Right Direction" award, given by Braintree-based sneaker designer and shoe company, Well Adapted.

Recipients included:

· Jeffrey Dutra, Grade 10, CAD/CAM Program

· Melina Cortinheiro Grade 11, Cosmetology Program

· Ryan Monteiro-Delgado, Grade 11, Plumbing Program

The award, granted by Well Adapted business owner, "G," recognizes young individuals who exemplify the ability to overcome adversity, persevere despite setbacks, and maintain a positive mindset.

Well Adapted presented each of the three recipients, who are also sneaker enthusiasts, with a limited-edition pair of Nike Air Jordan sneakers, and students were given an inspirational coaching session from "G" about the importance of working hard in life. The award was offered for the first time this year.

After the session, students were treated to a steak lunch with Principal Guenette at the Silver Platter, Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School’s onsite Culinary Arts restaurant. "These students all represent the core values of our school community, and this award reflects greatly upon themselves as well as Bristol-Plymouth," Superintendent Magalhaes said. "This partnership has left such a positive impact on the recipients, and I’m glad we can offer our students this unforgettable experience."

"They had no idea they were going to receive the sneakers," said SRO LaPlante. "Their excitement was palpable after being gifted the sneakers, and the students kept commenting on how happy they were and couldn’t believe they won. These kids are incredibly resilient, and they deserve to be recognized for their tenacity as we wrap up the year."

The HERO program, spearheaded by SRO LaPlante, Taunton Police Chief Edward Walsh, and Bristol-Plymouth Superintendent Magalhaes was developed with the goal of allowing students to participate in memorable and engaging experiences. In addition to the opportunity to win the "A Step in the Right Direction" award from Well Adapted, students have been taken on field trips to see professional sports games, tours in Boston, and have participated in various community service events.

Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School student Melina Cortinheiro was surprised with sneakers from Well Adapted. (Photo courtesy Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School)

Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical High School students were surprised with sneakers from Well Adapted. (Photo courtesy Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School)

Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical High School student Jeffrey Dutra was surprised with sneakers from Well Adapted. (Photo courtesy Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School)

Well Adapted business owner "G" gifted students with free sneakers and coached students about the importance of working hard in life. (Photo courtesy Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School)