FORT WASHINGTON, PA, November 12, 2008 J. F. Smith & Associates announced that its president and CEO, Joel Smith, along with over 200 local business leaders were sent to the Principal’s office today. It was all part of the 7th annual “Principal for a Day” program presented by Greater Philadelphia Cares, in partnership with the School District of Philadelphia.
Smith spent his day with Carmen Maldonado-Navarro, Principal of the Philip H. Sheridan School in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia. Smith visited classrooms, and attended staff meetings. In addition to discussions with teachers and staff, Smith reviewed budgets and staffing plans with Ms Maldonado-Navarro.
"It was an eye opening experience to visit Sheridan,” said Smith. “This was my third year of participation in this great program. Each year I learn of new challenges facing our schools. Parts of Sheridan were built in 1899. To help accommodate the 800 plus students attending the school, there is an annex down the street. Despite these challenges, Ms Maldonado-Navarro and her staff are doing a great job of educating the children.”
J. F. Smith & Associates is a major supporter of programs to improve the quality of education in our region. In addition to Principal for a Day, Smith has participated in the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce’s “Read to Me” program for the last three years. He has participated in numerous panel presentations and roundtable discussions with teachers and other educators in support of the LaSalle University’s Math and Science Partnership of Greater Philadelphia (a National Science Foundation research grant) and West Chester University’s 3E Institute.
An award-winning non-profit, Greater Philadelphia Cares is committed to empowering individuals to realize their ability to contribute to the community in meaningful ways. By providing a variety of flexible, tangible volunteer opportunities, Greater Philadelphia Cares is continuously enhancing the ability for volunteers to serve the community. Greater Philadelphia Cares was founded in 1994. Renee Archawski is President and CEO. For more information, visit www.philacares.com.