Note from the Directors

Jaime Abdilla and Susan Gold

The arrival of fall brings with it some of the BTI community's most cherished traditions and activities: Halloween SlimeTime, Frankenstein mock trials, beverage innovations, and engaging in the cross-curricular projects that will take center stage at Open House on February 6. Juniors are building connections with their mentors, and the entire BTI family comes together for heartwarming celebrations like PieFeast. The BTI program continues to thrive on the spirit of engagement and collaboration, creating moments that inspire and unite us all.

As the holiday season approaches, the BTI team is reflecting on the generosity and dedication of our extended community. We are immensely grateful to our parent volunteers on the development committee, the mentors who so graciously share their time and expertise with our juniors, and the sophomore symposium speakers who ignite our student’s passion for science. A special thank you goes to those coordinating special field trips and to the many friends of BTI who contribute in countless meaningful ways.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Carlmont Academic Foundation, whose efforts and financial support make possible many of the exceptional opportunities available to our students.

Finally, thank you for your generous contributions to CAF’s Giving Day and throughout the year — we are thrilled to announce that $34,000 has been raised this year - nearly 70% of the way to the goal of $50,000. Thank you for your continued support and kindness!

Meet-Your-Mentor Event

On November 1, the juniors met with their mentors for the first time over bagels, juice, and coffee. The room was filled with smiles, a clear sign of successful connections forming. These relationships will continue to grow through May, and students will even shadow their mentors at work one day.

We are deeply grateful to the 52 mentors who have generously volunteered their time and expertise to guide our students as they explore their academic interests and career possibilities.

A big thank you to Mr. Fabic for finding outstanding mentors, and to Ms. Moynihan for seamlessly integrating mentor program activities into her classes.

Senior Field Trip to Skyline College

This year, our seniors are enrolled in Biomanufacturing, a dual-enrollment course co-taught by Carlmont teacher Leslie Burndon and Skyline College biotechnology professor Nick Kapp.

In October, the seniors had the exciting opportunity to visit Dr. Kapp and his colleagues at Skyline College. They toured the labs, enjoyed a lunch with stunning ocean views, and participated in mock job interviews with industry professionals, coordinated by Faith Velschow, our district’s vocational specialist.

Many thanks to Dr. Kapp, the Skyline staff, and Ms. Velschow for creating such a dynamic and engaging experience for our students.

Slime Time

Making slime is more than just a fun activity that reminds our students of their younger years; it's a creative way to foster a sense of community! Thank you, Ms. Abdilla, for setting up this lunchtime lab and making sure there were heaps of candy, too!

Pie Feast

Sharing pie and other delicious baked goodies was a fun way of bringing the BTI family together to celebrate the season of gratitude and connection. And who doesn't love pie for lunch?!

Study Night

Few things unite teens like pizza, snacks, and facing the stress of finals. At Study Night, students found camaraderie as they tackled assignments, provided peer tutoring, and motivated each other to keep going.