May 26 is Celebration Day! West Smithfield Becomes Official National Demo Site SMITHFIELD-- The students, staff, and parents will literally pop-- bubbles that is-- on Friday, May 26 when they celebrate their status as a National Demonstration site for the Accelerated Schools plus program. Based on the philosophy of accelerating achievement by building school, teacher, and student capacity, the Accelerated Schools plus program has been West Smithfield Elementary School's theme since it opened three years ago. Accelerated Schools plus is one of the longest operating, most widely studied school improvement entities in existence. The celebration, which will begin at 10 a .m.,willbeledprimarilyby students, with parent and staff participation, followed by a "bubble social" as a ceremonial send-off, and a special schoolwide luncheon and fun station activities for the students. (See list of photo opportunities at release end.) The school's selection as a national demonstration site was based on improvement in student achievement, teaching practices, community involvement, and overall effectiveness. West Smithfield, which operates a summer enrichment program, in addition to its Accelerated Schools plus program during the traditional year, gave an impressive showing to the panel that decided upon its demonstration status. "The competition was fierce and normally schools that are selected have worked with us for eight years or more. It is remarkable for a school to achieve this recognition in only three years," said Accelerated Schools CEO, Gene Chasin, who will be on hand to join in the festivities. Dr. Chasin will present a banner and plaque to Asthma Hafsa, the school's SGA president.
