The 5th Annual Amherst-Pelham Regional Public Schools Latino Achievement Night will be celebrated on May 20, 2011 at Amherst Regional Middle School, 170 Chestnut Street. The event will begin at 6:30pm and all families, friends, staff and community members are invited to attend.
Under the direction of Superintendent of Schools, Maria Geryk and Director of Interventions & ELE, Dr. Marta Guevara, and in keeping with the Social Justice Commitment of the Amherst-Pelham Regional Public Schools, the 5th Annual ARPS Latino Achievement Night aspires toward equity of opportunity, inclusion, respect and community-building in and out of the classroom.
“Latino Achievement Night was envisioned 6 years ago with the establishment of the Latino Initiative. Data revealed that Latinos were performing at lower levels than other students in the districts,” states Dr. Marta Guevara. “A series of recommendations was formulated to address this critical issue and close the achievement gap. A resulting step was the creation of a community event celebrating the achievements of Latino students paralleling the customs of Latin American countries.”
Latino students in grades K, 6, 8 and 12 are recognized for academic achievement, community spirit, effort, leadership and progress and receive Certificates of Excellence.
In addition, Amherst Police Department Sergeant Jesus Arocho will be honored for his achievements and commitment to the community. Many dignitaries and special guests will be on hand to join in the celebration which will feature music and dance performances by elementary, middle and high school students. Refreshments will also be served.
Superintendent of Schools, Maria Geryk states, “We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of our Latino students in such a wonderful way – with family and friends and the greater Amherst community.”
The mission of the Amherst-Pelham Regional Public Schools is to create a dynamic learning community where students and staff work together and where all students are supported and challenged to achieve their full potential in their intellectual, creative, social and civic endeavors. With parent and community participation, staff and students strive to ensure a safe environment and to promote respect and appreciation for the diversity of individuals, cultures and learning styles.
Crocker Farm's Evening Scholastic Book Fair is coming up (you have it on your calendar right - next Wednesday May 4, 6:30 - 8:00 pm) & it's been our tradition to have snacks available in the Cafeteria. The PGO provides drinks & music & treats for those who want a quiet reprieve from the busy book sale. We need help with the snacks. Can you bake a couple dozen of your family's favorite cookies? You can bring them to the Fair at 6:30 or send them to school with your child during the day. Please let Erika know if you can help (studiozed@comcast.net).
