The Bedford High School Parents Association (BHSPA) would like to recognize three board members for their many years of service to the Bedford Public Schools (BPS). These dedicated individuals have spent countless hours working on various boards within the schools to enhance the experience for students and teachers/staff. As their last seniors depart from BHS, we want to thank them for their time, commitment and service!
Kerry Rackey – BHSPA Co-Vice President
Kerry has selflessly volunteered for many years within the Bedfords Schools. Some of Kerry’s roles have included: Middle School Parents Association (MSPA) Co-President (3 years), MSPA Co-Vice President (3 years), BHSPA Co-Vice President (2 years), and BHSPA Co-President (4 years). Kerry also is the Co-Chair of the All Night Graduation party, an all night substance-free event for graduating seniors, in its 33rd year. As Co-Chair, Kerry is responsible for the planning, funding and execution of the annual event. After a 2-year hiatus due to COVID-19, the All Night Graduation party was in full swing this year and was a huge success. Kerry has held this role for 5 years and will graciously be back next spring to help with the event as an alumni parent. Other volunteer roles include School Council at Lane School, School Council at BHS and Selection Committees for Assistant Principals for both JGMS and BHS. Thank you Kerry for all you have done for our schools!
Paula Gilarde – BHSPA Communications/Enews Coordinator
Paula Gilarde’s volunteer efforts began with the BEST (Bedford Elementary Schools Together) Parent Organization at Davis & Lane Schools where she held the positions of Newsletter Editor and Webmaster. At JGMS, Paula continued as the Webmaster for the MSPA and also served as Co-President, Teacher Appreciation Week Coordinator, 8th Grade Moving On Co-Chair and School Council Representative. For the past 4 years, Paula has held the position of Communications Coordinator for the BHSPA meticulously compiling the eNews daily throughout the school year. Paula is also the Decorations Chair for the All Night Graduation Party and has held this position for 5 years. She has been instrumental in ensuring the success of this event for many years. In 2021, when many BHS senior events were cancelled due to COVID-19, Paula established the Senior Sendoff Committee to ensure the Class of 2021 had a celebratory farewell. The event proved to be a tremendous success and an extraordinary memory for the Class of 2021. Thank you Paula for your outstanding commitment to the Bedford Schools!
Diane Bernstein – BHSPA Treasurer
Diane has shared her talents with the Bedford Public Schools by holding the position of Treasurer in all three of the Bedford Parent Associations – BEST, MSPA and BHSPA. Diane’s dedication in this position with the parent organizations spans well over 12 years. In 2021, Diane joined forces with Sandy Arena and implemented the Prom Dress Pop-up. This event allowed students to choose from a variety of new or like-new gowns, suits and tuxes to be worn to prom and semi-formals. Students loved the sustainability aspect of this event as well as the cost-savings of borrowing rather than buying new prom attire. Diane has also served in the role of Photo Chair for the All Night Graduation party. This important role ensures that students receive real-time pictures while enjoying the All Night Graduation event. Thank you Diane for your efforts and expertise!
We would also like to extend a special thanks to Lori Alper who has served in various roles in the Bedford Public Schools including the Challenge Success Co-Chair, School Council, JGMS and BHS Selection Committees, BHSPA Co-Vice President and more. Thank you Lori for your dedication to the Bedford Schools!
The BHSPA board is honored to have worked with these accomplished women. Thank you all for your time, energy and dedication to our schools! You will all be missed!
We are always welcoming new members to join us in the fun! If you would like to find out more about the BHSPA and how you can get involved, please email us bedfordbucsparents@gmail.com.