A gathering of more than 500 attendees will meet at the NAEA Conference in Nashville, Feb. 9-12 at the Downtown Hilton to discuss Exemplary Practices and Standards in Alternative Education. 

Smyrna West is one of the exclusive sites showcased as a model school for conference attendees. 

Several activities at Smyrna West School will be highlighted in connection of the focus strand Real, Relevant, Engaging Life Connections Through Service Learning.

Science teacher Lee Farris and his sixth and seventh grade classes were awarded a mini-grant from Learn and Serve America and NAEA for the purpose of promoting recycling and conservation of our natural resources. 

Thanks to this grant, NAEA conference attendees will hear a project update and receive a Vapur reusable water bottle.

Service-Learning teacher Debora Pack and her students were awarded 2^nd place in the national video contest sponsored by the National Alternative Educators Association. 

Their winning video highlighted Smyrna West students and the impact the school has had on them during their suspension from their zoned schools.

Ryan Nance, Debora Pack, Teresa O’Neal, Kelly Messerly, and Kara Porter are Smyrna West teachers who have co-authored a book entitled, Dive Into Service Learning. 

This book is a beginning book for teachers who want to implement service learning into the curriculum.  In conjunction with a presentation at the conference, teachers will host a book signing and have books available for purchase.