Shawsheen Valley Technical School is proud to announce that senior Ronan Dewar of Burlington, has been selected to receive the Massachusetts Foreign Language Association (MAFLA) Award for Excellence. This distinguished recognition is granted to a select group of students across the state who have demonstrated extraordinary academic achievement in their school’s most advanced world language courses.
The MAFLA Award for Excellence celebrates not only linguistic proficiency but also cultural understanding, academic discipline, and intellectual curiosity. In her award letter, MAFLA Committee Chair Amy St. Arnaud wrote that Ronan’s “academic excellence reflects more than just high grades,” calling it a testament to his “work ethic, perseverance, and curiosity.”
Ronan, a standout student in Shawsheen’s Spanish program, exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary learning. A senior in the Advanced Manufacturing vocational program, he initially chose to attend Shawsheen for its hands-on, skill-based learning opportunities, a decision he calls “the best I ever made.” Drawn to 3D modeling and real-world applications of engineering in middle school, Ronan knew a traditional high school path wasn’t for him. His decision to attend Shawsheen was met with unwavering support from his family, and he has since thrived both academically and personally.
His passion for language and culture emerged as a complement to his technical education. Spanish teacher Jacob Goliti-Chase shared, “Ronan’s unwavering intellectual curiosity and exceptional risk-taking and linguistic abilities distinguish him from his peers. His passion for learning and remarkable talent for fostering meaningful cultural connections are truly rare. These qualities not only set him apart but also make him a deserving recipient of this award.” Goliti-Chase praised Ronan not only for his academic excellence but for shaping the classroom environment itself: “Due to his interpersonal insights and real-world connections, Ronan played a key role in how this year’s Spanish curriculum evolved, making our proficiency-based curriculum more engaging, relevant, and personalized.”
During his co-op placement at Galaxie Laboratory, Ronan bonded with a coworker from Laos over cultural foods and traditions in another notable example of his cross-cultural engagement. Ronan later shared those insights in class, enriching discussions and expanding his peers’ understanding of global perspectives. “One of my favorite parts of Spanish class is learning about cultural traditions,” Ronan shared.
Shawsheen’s Spanish language program is gaining recognition for its proficiency-based and culturally immersive approach to language education. Students benefit from engaging, authentic cultural resources, sampling Latin street foods through a new interactive digital textbook, analyzing current Spanish-language music by participating in the annual Locura de Marzo competition to explore the vibrant histories and traditions of destinations such as Spain, Colombia, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Ecuador. The curriculum also highlights the deep historical, linguistic, religious, and ethnic connections between Spanish-speaking communities across the globe, helping students appreciate both the shared roots and rich diversity of the Spanish-language diaspora. Academic Director Danica Johnston emphasized the school’s investment in global literacy, stating, “It is our commitment to continue developing our students’ language skills and cultural understanding.” Shawsheen takes pride in preparing students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Ronan has thrived in academics, shops, and extracurriculars at Shawsheen, actively participating in the Music and Drama Club. Through the school’s cooperative education program, he secured a placement at Galaxie Laboratory during his junior year and will seamlessly transition into a full-time role as a CNC machinist following graduation.
Upon receiving this award on his final official day of school, Ronan simply said, “Wow, thank you! I was not expecting this.” Ronan's teachers, classmates, and the Shawsheen community, however, were not surprised, but rather grateful for all that Ronan has contributed to the community.
Ronan wishes to thank all his instructors, especially Spanish teacher Mr. Jacob Goliti-Chase and his Advanced Manufacturing teacher Mr. Larry Retelle, for encouraging his curiosity and supporting his growth every step of the way.
About Shawsheen Valley Regional Vocational Technical School District
Established in 1965, Shawsheen Valley Regional Vocational Technical School District (SVRVTSD) stands as a beacon of educational excellence, placing students at the center of its mission. Proudly serving the communities of Billerica, Bedford, Burlington, Tewksbury, and Wilmington, Shawsheen caters to the diverse needs of over 1,300 students in grades 9-12.
Dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in education, Shawsheen seamlessly integrates academics with a dynamic range of over 20 vocational-technical career pathways. Located in Billerica, Massachusetts, Shawsheen's expansive 100-acre campus hosts an exceptional school building adorned with high-end and industry relevant equipment, athletic fields, twenty-four varsity sports, and a plethora of extra-curricular clubs and activities.
With a passionate faculty and staff, Shawsheen remains committed to its mission: "to provide a positive learning experience in a safe educational environment that encourages all students to reach their full potential, emphasizes the value of a strong work ethic, and prepares them for adult life in a competitive world."
Beyond its traditional academic offerings, Shawsheen Valley Technical School extends its educational reach through Adult Education, Afterschool Enrichment Programs, Community-focused Events, and Summer Programs. The district continually strives to expand its rich and diverse programming, embracing the belief that education is a lifelong, continuous process with numerous paths leading to a successful and fulfilling life.