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Each year, Cambridge Rindge & Latin School graduates more than 500 ambitious, beautiful, interesting, funny, dedicated, special, and spirited young people into the real world. On average, 92 percent of each graduating class heads off to a two- or four-year college, university, or technical school.
Every new graduate has a story to share. Here are a few, some of which were chosen on the merits of their academic standing and some of which were chosen by the school for the way in which they embody the school motto of Opportunity, Diversity, and Respect.
MADDY MONESTIME - 2026
Favorite subject at CRLS
English and Creative Design
Why is it your favorite subject?
Growing up English was the hardest subject for me, decoding words and reading was something I struggled with. Yet over my high school experience, I've grown my literacy skills and found the joy in writing especially through my Bunker Hill Community College writing classes. Writing offers an outlet for creativity, a different lens to see different human experiences, and the ultimate tool for self-expression.
Right alongside writing is my other favorite subject is creative design. Being in design classes completely unlocked my mindset, teaching me how to be a non-stop creative and giving me the freedom to bring so many ideas to life. Through the process of making art, I learned who I am and realized just how deeply I value creativity in my everyday life. Ultimately, design didn't just push me to grow as an designer, it shaped who I am as a person.
Favorite CRLS Staff Person
Sharon Lozada, Brenda Divelbiss, and Angelica Brisk
What makes that staff person so special?
To be quite frank, throughout my high school years, I sometimes found myself in classes with teachers who made you feel extremely unsupported and unvalued. Yet, there were other teachers who never let me second-guess myself or question if I was a valuable student. It can be hard with so many different types of students in one room, but these specific teachers found the perfect balance between celebrating individuality and building a community with everyone. Because of what they taught me, and through their guidance and support, I have become the better person I am today. I hope to be just like these amazing women one day.
Extracurricular activities, clubs, school-related activities
Student Government, Modern Dance Company, 9th-Grade Mentoring, National Honers Society, Club 4, and VOICE (Visions of Improving Connections in Education)
What were some of the out-of-school time (O.S.T) programs that you participated in anytime between grades 6-12?
Breakthrough (6th and 7th grade), Cambridge Youth Dance Program, Deborah Mason Performing Arts Center, Dance Performance Entertainment Network, Maddy's Wrld, and Central on Air.
How did being enrolled in any O.S.T. program(s) contribute to your success both in and out of high school?
Participating in these extracurricular activities has contributed significantly to my high school success. Most importantly, they provided me with valuable, hands-on experience and exposed me to diverse perspectives. These programs also reinforced my deeply held value of authenticity, teaching me to remain true to myself while collaborating with others.
What did you like most about CRLS? Why?
What I like most about CRLS is our unique school culture. Not many schools share the same level of energy and authenticity that we do. From the creative fashion and strong sportsmanship to the friendships, CRLS is a place where everyone truly finds their niche.
What is something people unfamiliar with CRLS should know about the school? Why?
One thing people don't realize about CRLS is just how diverse the campus is. Walk into any bathroom and you can easily hear three different languages spoken at the same time. Between our multilingual students and the ESL program, our hallways feel like a whole world of their own. On top of that, having around 100 clubs makes it so easy to find your niche. There is an option for almost everything, and these groups aren't just about the activities—they are spaces where everyone finds a real sense of community.
What advice would you give incoming freshmen about CRLS?
Quality over quantity is the most important thing. Putting in effort to your work and making sure you feel proud about it is way more important than doing so many things with half the effort. People are going to value your work more if you value it the same. Also document everything! High school goes by so fast so take as many photo and videos to capture all the memories!
NIA GUERRERO - 2025
Favorite subject at CRLS
Creative Design
Why is it your favorite subject?
Creative Design is my favorite because of the valuable and employable skills I learned over the course of two years. Initially, I didn't see myself as a creative and artistic person but this class allowed my skills to flourish. The design room is equipped with an unlimited supply of materials and resources. Through this class I've been able to make a range of things like logos, club flyers, city wide PSA posters, and t-shirts. Something that makes this class extra special is the teacher, Ms. Max. Ms. Max is a teacher that is the definition of support and uplifting. She has so much passion for her work and it is reflected when being in her classroom. She makes a space where everyone is welcome from all levels to learn and grow. She is always there to sit down with you and give her feedback on every single piece of work.The class is truly one of a kind and I recommend everyone to try different forms of arts and media such as this one.
Favorite CRLS Staff Person
Angelica Brisk
What makes that staff person so special?
Ms. Brisk is a teacher that is truly outstanding. When I first met her in homeroom, I realized she was a teacher who cared deeply for her students. She wholeheartedly wants to see all of her students succeed. Over the past four years she has pushed me into becoming a better woman. She has been there during my high and lows and she always makes it clear that she is a shoulder to cry on. She always manages to create deep and lasting bonds with people who come across her. Her kindness, compassion, and empathy is something that she radiates. I don't know where I would be if I hadn't met her.
Extracurricular activities, clubs, school-related activities
Student government, Cultural Visibility Team, Tennis, SOCC, Student Guide, Charles River Clean-up, NHS, and Drag Club.
What were some of the out-of-school time (O.S.T) programs that you participated in anytime between grades 6-12?
Hostess, Cambridge Mayor's Office Intern, and Camp Counselor
How did participating in any sports, arts, clubs and/or OST programs contribute to your success during your high school years?
Participating in extracurriculars has contributed to my success by helping me understand the importance of community. As senior vice president and co-founder of the cultural visibility team, I learned how togetherness and representation go hand in hand. Planning events that celebrated our peers reminded me that we thrive in spaces where people feel included and proud of who they are. My experiences with SOCC, Club 4, and CRCC deepened my belief in community. They taught me empathy, advocacy, and how it is essential for showing up for others. Overall, all the activities I participated in gave me a purpose in high school to lead with compassion and how strengthening the community around you strengthens the individuals in it.
What did you like most about CRLS? Why?
The faculty at CRLS is something unique and special. Every teacher is so passionate and proficient in the work they do. Each teacher constantly shows their effort and ensures you feel valued in every space to step into. The students are some of the most supportive and funniest people you will meet. Every student is different from one and another and we all are constantly celebrating and uplifting our differences. The amount of resources and classes offered at CRLS is something I am forever grateful for. The school does an amazing job at setting up their students for success after high school. Plus, off-campus lunch is pretty sweet too.
What is something people unfamiliar with CRLS should know about the school? Why?
The Media Arts department is something more people need to know about and enjoy. The studio itself is filled with equipment for anyone that wants to record and produce music, make podcasts, or become a new anchor. The time I've had in the studio is something I still yearn for. All the staff are extremely talented and educated on the work they do and you can learn so much from them. It is a great opportunity for those who feel they learn best when they do hands-on work.
What advice would you give incoming freshmen about CRLS?
Be kind not only to those around you, but to yourself. High school is a place where it can become easily overwhelming. It becomes easy to go hard on yourself when things don't go out exactly how you want it. But I came to learn that treating yourself with patience and understanding is just as important as showing it to others. Small acts of kindness can go a long way in a place like this, smile at people in the halls, be a helpful team player, and listen when others express their feelings. The relationship you build and the way you shape yourself is worth more than anything.
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