An Update from the Achievement Center Staff

This year in the High School Achievement Center more than 50 students have assisted the invaluable staff, which includes full-time Coordinator Ginger Raspiller and teachers Lisa Melanson, Elaine Brownell, Hannah Jones and Rob Thompson, who share parts of their day in the AC. These dedicated students and teachers have provided over 200 hours of tutoring and assistance, reaching students in ways that traditional classroom settings cannot. Many community members and parents have also enhanced the center, with over 50 hours of time as tutors. Mary Ann Tranfaglia, Andy Warde, Jenny Galasso, Karen Burke, Beth Goduti, Susan Spagnola, Carol Makrides and Deb­bie Cushing have all offered fresh perspectives and help to the many students who use the Achievement Center.

The students summarize the center the best when they say "It is a quiet place where students can come to do work/study without any distractions." "The staff is more than accommodating to students' needs; whether it be helping out with an assignment, writing conference or giving advice." Proving the environment works well a student chimes in, "I enjoyed the relaxed, welcoming, 'drop-in' atmosphere. I think that has contributed to its success." A freshman student who frequents the center speaks for many with his comment, "I simply wanted to do the best I can in all my subjects and had heard good things about the Center from friends and teachers."

Reports Director Raspiller, "The Achievement Center continues to be a busy place! During our hectic weeks last year, we would have between 200 and 300 sessions per week (the average for 2nd semester was about 160). Since December during our .ve busiest weeks, we had between 350 and 425 sessions! The average for the 16-week period from December 4th to April 6th was 270 sessions per week."