Learning didn’t stop during February vacation.

Students in grades 3 through 10 in the Old Rochester Regional School District MA Superintendency Union #55 engaged in a week of fun and interactive instruction during February vacation as part of a Math Acceleration Academy program, Superintendent of Schools Michael S. Nelson and his central office team announced. 

Classes were held at Sippican Elementary School for students in grades 3-6 and at Old Rochester Regional Junior High School for students in grades 7-10 during the week of Feb. 21-25, from 7:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Breakfast and lunch was available for students who participated, and the program was offered free of charge to selected students.

As outlined by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), an Acceleration Academy is a week-long academic program designed to accelerate student learning through engaging, standards-aligned lessons that meet the specific academic needs of students participating in the program. Academy classes provide students the opportunity to engage in highly-focused, instructional time during school vacation week in a vibrant and engaging setting.

District coordinators for the program were Old Hammondtown/Center School Associate Principal Kevin Tavares and Center School first grade teacher Marissa Hughes.

“The Math Acceleration Academy has given students high-quality core instructional mathematical skills to increase success in the classroom,’’ Associate Principal Tavares said. “It has also helped students stay on task over the February break so that learning continues.’’ 

An academy is scheduled for the April vacation, Nelson said.