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Dinner Sets Tone For FCAT

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By COURTNEY CAIRNS PASTOR, The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 16, 2008

TOWN 'N COUNTRY - Pierce Middle School will usher in FCAT season with meatballs, tomato sauce and pasta.

The school is hosting its 10th annual spaghetti dinner Jan. 31. The tradition started as a way to educate parents about standardized tests but has turned into a community event.

About 800 people attended last year, mostly parents and students. Pierce alumni have come as well, said Mary Alice Kelley, Pierce's career specialist. Special guests also have attended, including Mayor Pam Iorio. This year, Pierce has invited school board members and Superintendent MaryEllen Elia.

Principal Victor Fernandez and some of the teachers do the cooking, starting on the meatballs in advance and simmering sauce all day. The band and school dancers will perform. Donations from local businesses offset the costs of the spaghetti, bread and salads and supplies, and money raised from the $5 ticket price benefits the school.

"This event is a big deal for us," Kelley said.

The first round of the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test begins next month and extends into March. Students in grades four, eight and 10 will take the writing test starting Feb. 12. The reading, math and science portions take place from March 11-24 for grades three through 11.

The FCAT affects the ratings the state and federal government give schools and can also prevent high school students from graduating and some younger students from advancing to the next grade.

The spaghetti dinner attracts parents to the school, Kelley said. The school kicks it off with a short program about the FCAT, sharing information about what the tests entail and how parents can prepare their children.

IF YOU GO

The Pierce Middle School FCAT spaghetti dinner will go from 6 to 9 p.m. Jan. 31 at the school, 5511 N. Hesperides Ave. Tickets cost $5 with proceeds going to the school. For information, call Mary Alice Kelley at (813) 872-5344.

Reporter Courtney Cairns Pastor can be reached at (813) 865-1503 or cpastor@tampatrib.com.

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