MAA Props & Shout Outs

Thanks to those below and many others who share their experiences and words of wisdom with us. The communications Committee hopes that by sharing past experiences, we all learn valuable lessons for today, which may improve our efforts moving into the future.

Please submit your essay for consideration to
communications@metcoalumni.org, or mail your experiences to:
Communications Committee, METCO Alumni Association, 40 Dimock Street, Roxbury, MA 02119

I was one of the original ten children to start the METCO program in Lincoln as a kindergartener and then to go on to Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School; although there were METCO Students in Sudbury when my class got there, we were the first to complete the total METCO experience from start to finish in the Lincoln and Sudbury towns. As a young student, I didn't realize how important it was for me to interact with a large diversity of inner-city children as well as the diversity of students that lived in the suburbs. This whole experience, every aspect of it, has taught me and most likely everyone that has had the pleasure of METCO, immeasurable life lessons! This program is one of the best things that happened in Boston and for Boston. A big THANK YOU to all of those involved in the civil rights of others, all the original suburban communities, Brookline, Wakefield, Lexington, Arlington, Lincoln & Sudbury and their civil rights groups -- I hope I didn't miss any of the original towns. Thank you!

Lisa Walker - Sharon '90

I grew up in Mattapan and Dorchester and attended school in Sharon, MA from the third grade through high school (class of 1990). I was a shy child and nervous about going to a strange school, but one of the first people who befriended me was another METCO student that I am still best friends with today. I am so grateful to the program for giving me the opportunity to be exposed to different cultures. I met people from various economic and social backgrouds. I realized over the years that children with wealthy parents have the same issues and growing pains as children whose parents are not so wealthy. I also realized that high school can be a difficult time for most teenagers, myself included; however my burdens were lessened by the love and respect I shared with so many of my classmates. I hope the program remains in existence for many years to come so that other children can have a more broad perspective of the world they live in and recognize the power of a good education in and out of the classroom.

Sheri Pettus - Wellesley '86

I am so grateful that I was able to be a part of the METCO experience. I graduated from Wellesley in 1986. I know that it was a life altering process. It helped me to be able to adapt in any situation. I think that the time I spent at my host family had an underlying effect on the career path I chose. I always was in awe at the homes I visited. I am now a Realtor in Atlanta. In 2003, I filmed an episode of House Hunter on HGTV; my second episode will air in September 21, 22, and 24. Thanks to Jean McGuire and Nazaleem Smith -- you helped make it happen.

Eddie Shaddock - Newton North '82

My experiences with METCO at Newton North High School were tremendous! I met so many different people from different cultures and loved all of it! I can't say enough about my opportunities there. My graduation year was 1982, my major was music and I participated in many programs such as acting in the Little Theatre, Rocco and the Celestials which was a 50's musical review, Newton North Choir, the Family Singers and two sports (wrestling and indoor track, shotput). I had the opportunity to travel to Spain with the Family Singers during April vacation for a month in my senior year and I wouldn't trade it for the world! I participated in the Black Student Union as the Sargeant at Arms. I also had the pleasure of watching Patrick Ewing play us when he was with Cambridge Rindge and Latin! There are also people who have become famous from my graduation year such as Donnie Yen, martial arts expert and movie star! There has always been a long waiting list to get into METCO because it's such a great program, so just hang in there if you have children that you want to participate. I did not get in until the fifth grade when I attended Memorial Elementary and from there I attended Warren Junior High. From there, of course, to Newton North. For those who are in now and those who are following, enjoy your experience and take advantage of whatever interests you!