Caashead Start, 29 Allen St, Somerville, MA 02143, US

A roughly $35 million renovation completed in 2007 transformed this K-8 school into a state-of-the-art teaching facility. Formerly called the Lincoln Park Community School, it is now named for former School Superintendent Dr. Albert F. Argenziano. Inside the gleaming, energy-efficient building are over 40 classrooms, a new Library/Media Center, and a Math & Science Technology Center—all outfitted with cutting-edge teaching technologies. The expansive grounds now feature renovated playing fields and a jungle gym. Over 490 students attend the school and roughly two-thirds are English Language Learners. The school's Structured English Immersion Program provides intensive English instruction. Meanwhile, Argenziano is an international demonstration site for the Quaglia Institute for Student Aspirations, a nonprofit program that helps students set goals and reach them. The social-emotional curriculum, Second Step, is also taught to grade K-6 students. Test scores are available on the school's website and here. Principal Barbara O'Brien heads the school.