Operation Smart
Operation SMART provides students of mid-county Pinellas communities with individualized tutoring during the summer months in all required subject areas including mathematics, communication skills and computer science. A certified teacher from the Pinellas County Schools develops individualized plans to address students' weaknesses and to strengthen the academic areas in which they are deficient. Students are tested following their instruction to ensure that they have mastered the performance standards necessary to succeed in school. Serves youth between the ages of 6 through 17 years old.
News Release
August 2012, St. Petersburg, Florida
Urban League's Completes Successful Summer Camp
The Pinellas County Urban League just concluded a very successful eight week summer camp for the Operation SMART (Students Motivational and Readiness Training) program in Largo, FL. The program is dedicated to assisting all children so that they share equally in a rewarding summer experience. Funded by the Pinellas Community Foundation, the goal of the summer camp is to promote success in children in mid-county Pinellas with individualized tutoring in subject areas such as, mathematics, reading, writing, communication skills, computer science and interpersonal skills.
Seventy-six students were put to the task of participating in a rigorous eight weeks curriculum designed to help them retain what they have learned in school. The program was not all academics and the youth were able to participate in fun filled activities as well. Students were tasked with reading books and writing in a journal. Here are a few quotes from their diaries:
Rylie - I am an American: I'm proud to be an American, because we have the freedom that some other countries don't have. Some countries still have slavery and they don't have a military to help protect them or fight for their freedom. I am proud to have freedom of speech and religion. I am an American.
Erica - My name is Erica and I love to write and read. I am a Writer. I soar through the stars. I write many books about dinosaurs, penguins, and pizza too. I just can't stop writing. How about you?
Siyagali - Imagine me as a butterfly flying so high in the sky. If I were a butterfly I would fly around an oak tree. If I were a butterfly I would always land on the peoples' hands. I would be licking nectar from the purple flowers. I would be a beautiful butterfly with different kinds of patterns. Imagine ME!
To close out the program – all of the students received certificates of appreciation. Special acknowledgment was made of the most improved and turn-around student of the summer. Ms. Georgia Thomas, classroom instructor passed out new book bags filled full with school supplies and other gifts. Awards were presented to dedicated volunteers and most notable, the recognition to Mrs. Michelle McFarlane-Wilson, executive director for GRAYDI, where the program is housed.
