Reporter’s People

Ralph Cooper, the former Mayor of Dorchester who has led Boston’s Veterans Benefits Clearinghouse for many years, will be moving to Texas soon to enjoy his retirement. A committee is busy planning a party in his honor on Friday, April 17 at UMass-Boston. The event will take place from 6-11p.m. at UMB’s Ryan Lounge. The suggested donation is $30. For more information, contact cooperretirement@gmail.com.

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Students and teachers at the Roger Clap School on Harvest Street will celebrate their namesake’s 400th Birthday on April 6. Clap was born in England on April 6, 1609 and came to America aboard the Mary & John – the first ship to bring English settlers to Dorchester- in 1630. He was a Dorchester founding father and the second commander of the fort on Castle Island. According to Mary Moran, a teacher at the Clap School, students have many interesting events planned for the day, including visiting Roger’s grave at the King’s Chapel Burial Grounds, visiting the Clap houses at the Dorchester Historical Society and writing Roger’s biography.

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The Lilla G. Frederick Pilot Middle School on Columbia Rd. has been named an “Apple Distinguished School” for technology innovation.  It is the only school in Massachusetts and one of only 33 schools across the country to earn the distinction this year.

 John Couch, Apple Vice President for Education, said the Apple Distinguished School designation is reserved for schools that have achieved a 21st century vision of education utilizing Apple technology.
“In reviewing the great work that is underway at the Lilla G. Frederick Pilot Middle School, I was especially impressed by the school’s success in using technology to increase engagement and achievement with students, as well as communication and interaction with their parents and teachers,” said Couch.  “We are proud to be part of an effort that is, in my view, a model for other schools around the country.”

Dr. Carol R. Johnson, Superintendent of the Boston Public Schools, congratulated Principal Debra Socia, as well as staff, families, students, and community partners, on receiving the award.
“The Frederick School has emerged as a true pioneer in using technology effectively to help close the achievement gap,” said Dr. Johnson.  “This distinction from Apple is a great testimony to the fine work taking place at the Frederick every day to ensure that all students perform at the highest levels.”

For more information about the Frederick School, visit lgfnet.org.
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Aviation Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Courtney L. HoSang, son of Myrtle HoSang of Mattapan, has been awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

HoSang is a 1993 graduate of Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School. His decoration comes as a result of his service with Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 48. During his year-long tour with the command at Naval Air Facility Washington, D.C., in 2008, he served as the quality assurance leading petty officer. His inspections and work center audits led to the safe completion of over 14,000 aircraft maintenance actions.

His efforts led to his selection as the squadron’s Select Reserve Sailor of the Year for 2008.

Originally from Clarendon, Jamaica, HoSang enlisted with the Navy in 1995. He has since served with Light Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadrons HSL-41 and HSL-42, and with Air Development Squadron VX-23. During his tour with VR-48, he completed his bachelor’s degree in professional aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.