Teachers told to be 'fearless'
SPRINGFIELD - Gov. Deval L. Patrick told Springfield teachers during their annual convocation ceremony Friday to continue their commitment to children and be "fearless" as they strive to inspire and change the lives of thousands of students.
Patrick was among speakers who took part in the rally-like convocation at the MassMutual Center on Main Street, attended by approximately 3,000 teachers, administrators and staff who are preparing for the return of students on Monday.
The governor also visited the site of an $11 million affordable housing project under construction at the Borinquen Apartments on Main Street in the North End, which is being assisted by state and federal funding and tax credits. Local, state and federal officials praised the project by co-developers Heriberto Flores and the New England Farm Workers' Council, that involves the complete renovation of two buildings to provide 41