Educate. Prepare. Inspire. ANNUAL REPORT
2017-2018 2018-2019 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Katie Brouse, President Justin Merry, Vice President Mark Ritchey, Treasurer Sabrina Schutt, Secretary Liz Benjamin Laura Burke Rakesh Chopra Matthew Fox Haleh Haerian Sheela Kerstetter Rebecca Maguda Emily Mandel Jessica Montagnese Jordan Settle Annie Stapelfeld Gerald and Aline Wolf, Emeritus
ADMINISTRATION Andrea Okonak, Head of School Shannan Ake, Director of Elementary Education Penn-Mont Academy, Hollidaysburg Liza Scholl, Director of Early Childhood Education 131 Holliday Hills Drive April Sherry, Director of Development Hollidaysburg, PA 16648 ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT STAFF Jessica Mills, Administrative Coordinator Bev Chronister, Business Manager Penn-Mont at Lisa Myers, Receptionist Ashley Beerbower, Food Service Penn State Altoona Cypress Building TEACHERS AND ASSISTANTS 3000 Ivyside Park Samantha Adams Karen Beerbower Altoona, PA 16601 Hannah Bennett Heather Chilcote Samantha Conrad pennmontacademy.com Ashley Cook Ali Duclo Kait Felty Jessica Forlina 814-696-8801 Karly Fowler Diane Galanti April Grazier Alexis Hock Heather Jones Ronda Kimberlin Heather Kinser Chris Knepp Kristine Koller Brenda Luther Gail Maatman Carla McCue Patty Morris Kristi Negola Kaitlyn Nicholson Leah Park Linda Schimansky Jen Schorner Michele Smith Holly Sottile Marissa Stickles Kristina Strosnider Mary Truesdale Sharon Weyant Kristen Wyant
SPECIALS Christina Black, Music Rachel Cahill, Makerspace Kathleen Draskoczy, Library Martha Estrada, Spanish Carlee Imler, Physical Education Renee Hollobaugh, Instructional Support Diana Long, Reading Carina Manna, Art Kathy Moran, Science Doug Rhodes, Orchestra Julie Rishel, Guidance
ANNUAL REPORT DESIGN Emily McConnell, EM’s Graphic Studio www.emsgraphicstudio.com - 814-201-2212 Message from Head of School
As I reflect on this past year and share our work with the Penn-Mont community in our annual report, I am elated to tell you it’s been another successful year in the history of Penn-Mont Academy. It’s always interesting to pause during our current school year to reflect on the past year, and in doing so, we definitely had a very productive and exciting 2017-2018 school year.
This annual report recognizes each of you as supporters and friends of PMA. Our community is strong, united, and moving forward. We could never thank you enough for your contributions to the school. Your time, talent, and treasure encourage our growth and remind us to stay true to the core values that have served us well for over five decades.
There are a great deal of highlights from the 2017-2018 school year that we are pleased to share with you; some of which include: Re-accreditation with the American Montessori Society (AMS) & Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) Participation in Montessori Model United Nations (MMUN) Completion of the Peace Garden in the Outdoor Classroom Initiation of an Elementary Chorus The Blair County Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame Recognition
As you review the annual report, you will learn about each of these tremendous accomplishments, and more!
In looking forward, our Penn-Mont community has a great deal to be excited about this year as well. Renovations over the summer and changes to our physical space allowed for more students, specials classroom improvements, the addition of a Makerspace for increased science/STEAM instruction, and the inception of an Infant Program, to name a few. Penn-Mont committed additional resources allowing us to expand our staffing team hiring two Education Directors (Early Childhood and Elementary), as well as an Instructional Support Teacher for our school-age students. We have many vibrant new staff who are a wonderful addition to our school community. Admissions and enrollment are very strong with Penn-Mont boasting full classrooms and waiting list at all levels. We look forward to continuing what has been an exciting year thus far as we work towards setting and exceeding new goals while always supporting our mission, and honoring our values throughout this time of growth.
With deep thanks and gratitude, Head of School Andrea Okonak
annual report pennmontacademy.com 3 School Year Highlights Retirement Announcement During her tenure as Head of School, Mary was She also spent countless hours at our P enn-Mont Academy would like to instrumental in the development of the Outdoor Penn-State satellite campus giving express its heartfelt gratitude to Mary Classroom and led its funding efforts with the support to both its students and staff Zajac upon her retirement. As a part of “Learn, Play, Grow, Naturally!” campaign. At the and leading the Child Study Team in the Penn-Mont community since 1989, beginning of the 2016 school year, Mary made making sure that special needs children Mary has unwaveringly given of her time, the decision to step down as Head of School and were provided with the assistance and talent, and treasure to the children and return to a position that allowed her to pursue support they needed. families of Penn-Mont and has served her professional passion. From that time until her as a supportive colleague and visionary retirement this past June, Mary led the school Although Mary has retired from leader to its faculty and staff. as Director of Education, taking us through the Penn-Mont, she continues to serve as two-year process of re-accreditation with the an instructor with CMTE where she has Mary first arrived at Penn-Mont as a American Montessori Society and Middle States dedicated many years to the training young parent enrolling her two sons in Association of Colleges and Schools. Mary’s and development of new generations the Children’s House program. Having a experience with this process, her untiring of Montessori teachers and leaders. She background as an elementary and special dedication to detail, and her focused leadership also serves as an active member of the education teacher, Mary fell in love with were invaluable in our completion of this process. Pennsylvania Montessori Alliance in which Montessori education not only as a she has been involved since its inception. parent, but also as an educator. Though she earned her certification from the We sincerely thank Mary for her 30 years Center for Montessori Teacher Education of total commitment, dedication and (CMTE) in Early Childhood, Mary’s service to Penn-Mont Academy. We expertise and belief in the value of will always remember her calm, steady Montessori education for children of all leadership, her unwavering support of ages allowed her to work with children teachers and staff and, most importantly, at every level throughout the school. her passion for ensuring that all children In 1995, as Mary moved out of the receive an education that recognizes their classroom and into an administrative unique personalities, interests, and needs. role as Education Coordinator, her focus The Board of Directors, faculty, staff, and shifted to curriculum development, Penn-Mont family wish Mary all the best! providing professional development In honor of her work, the Board dedicated opportunities for staff, and giving support a tree and water feature in the new Peace to children with special educational Garden which Mary was instrumental in needs. In 2010, with the retirement of developing as one of her last endeavors Penn-Mont’s Head of School of 24 years, for the school. Though we know we will Mary accepted the challenge of stepping still see her from time to time, we will miss into that role and guiding Penn-Mont Mary’s guidance and friendship. We know, through a period of transition. however, that she will be fulfilled and Mary Zajac happy in her role as GiGi to her beloved grandchildren!
4 pennmontacademy.com annual report School Year Highlights Penn-Mont Dedicates a New Peace Garden in the Outdoor Classroom Thanks to the untiring efforts and clear vision of Mary Zajac, former Head of School, Penn-Mont’s Peace Garden was completed for the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year. The garden includes a tranquil fountain with beautiful benches that compliment its centerpiece, a walkable labyrinth with a peace pole at its center. I Offer You Peace September 21, International Day of Peace, was especially meaningful this year as Penn-Mont’s children placed their hand-painted “peace rocks” around the labyrinth, I offer you peace. sang and played songs of peace and recited “I Offer You Peace,” a poem written by Penn-Mont’s founder, Aline Wolf. It is truly a beautiful, tranquil place that helps us I offer you love. as a school realize Maria Montessori’s vision of bringing peace to the world through children. I offer you friendship.
I hear your cry.
I see your beauty.
I feel your pain.
This caring flows from my spirit within;
I salute that spirit in you.
Let us work together for peace.
Aline Wolf
Accreditation Update In April of 2018, Penn-Mont completed the accreditation process Throughout the next seven years, we will continue to work by hosting a visit from a team comprised of volunteer educators toward meeting the objectives set during that process and from both the American Montessori Society and the Middle submit a yearly report to the accreditation bodies outlining States Association of Colleges and Schools. Penn-Mont received our progress. its re-accreditation from both organizations, effective until June 30, 2025. annual report pennmontacademy.com 5 School Year Highlights Penn-Mont Participates Penn-Mont Receives Chamber of in Montessori Model Commerce Hall of Fame Award United Nations Program Each year, the Blair County Chamber of Commerce recognizes businesses in the area, with a history spanning at least 25 years, that have made a significant impact in Blair County. Penn-Mont Academy was honored as one of the 2017 Blair County Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame recipients. Follow this link to watch a video created by the Chamber about Penn-Mont Academy. http://www.pennmontacademy.com/awards/ Penn-Mont Hosts Chamber After Hours Penn-Mont was pleased to host a Chamber of Commerce After Hours event this past June. A reception area in the outdoor classroom welcomed guests with food and beverage. More than 75 attendees toured our beautiful school and campus to learn more about Penn-Mont. The event provided Maria Montessori believed that establishing lasting peace Penn-Mont the opportunity to introduce our school, Montessori programs was the work of education. As a supporter for the work and facility to business members of our community. The evening was hosted of the League of Nations and an advocate of its successor, by our Penn-Mont Board of Directors, school faculty and staff. the United Nations, an organization that seeks to establish international peace and humanitarianism, Montessori would surely have been proud of our Penn-Mont children and the work they did at Montessori Model United Nations. Penn-Mont Introduces
Last February, Penn-Mont sent its first delegation of 5th an Elementary Chorus and 6th grade students to the United Nations. Their visit During the fall of 2017, Penn-Mont introduced its very first school was the culmination of months of study and preparation. chorus! Led by music teacher Mrs. Christina Black, interested Upper Representing Papua New Guinea, students took part in Elementary students attended weekly practice. The students performed a simulation that allowed them the opportunity to work several times throughout last school year. The Penn-Mont chorus is a together in an effort to solve some of the world’s most wonderful compliment to our already existing arts programs. We are pressing problems. Through the program, students learned excited to announce that with the start of the 2018-19 school year even about world cultures, governments, and peoples of nations more students are participating in chorus. We look forward to hearing throughout the world and, thereby, found a deeper them perform! understand and respect for diversity. They developed critical thinking and problem solving skills while also developing the skills of articulate writers and speakers. Ultimately, students practiced conflict resolution as they worked collaboratively with students from all over the world to find mutually beneficial solutions to today’s global problems.
Watching our students craft and then vote on their resolutions on the floor of the United Nations General Assembly, we truly were witnessing tomorrow’s leaders who, as Montessori wrote, are both our greatest “promise and hope for mankind.” (Please see cover photo)
Penn-Mont at Penn State Altoona, operated by Penn-Mont Academy, continues to serve the needs of families of Penn State Altoona faculty, staff, and students, as well as the surrounding community.
6 pennmontacademy.com annual report School Year Highlights Healthy Snack Initiative Last year, Penn-Mont’s Wellness Committee Penn-Mont Class of 2018 identified the need to provide healthier snacks for Kids who are our students. The committee worked tirelessly to fed healthy create a program that would benefit our students foods, grow up on a daily basis and would be safe for students loving healthy with allergies. Penn-Mont students have enjoyed foods. healthy snacks each day such as: fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy grains, and so much more!
Kindergarten End-of-Year Program On May 31, 2018, twenty-eight Penn-Mont Academy Kindergarten students, from both Hollidaysburg and Penn State Altoona, came together to present the traditional end-of-year program for parents Row 1: Sabrina Arshad, Paige Merry, Lila Benjamin, Reaghan McGary and the Penn-Mont community. Under the direction of Preschool Row 2: Alexis McLanahan, Sidra Zammam, Stephanie Music Director, Miss Mary Truesdale, the program celebrated the Hargittai, Solveig Cannarsa, Allison Artman biomes of the universe. Row 3: Robert Pearson, Braden Lutz, Ewan Biesinger, Zane McAnuff, Dylan Deur, Thadeus Dick
On May 30, 2018, fifteen Penn-Mont sixth graders took part in graduation ceremonies held at the Misciagna Center for Performing Arts on the Penn State Altoona Campus. Penn Mont alumna Nathan (Nate) Lawhead addressed our graduates. Nate is attending James Madison University where he is studying business and finance working towards his degree in Business Admin- istration.
Penn-Mont is proud of each graduate! Throughout 6th grade they worked independently as well as collaboratively to apply their skills, talents and efforts toward year-long research and service projects of their own design. Our graduates made a positive impact on our school and community that will long be remembered.
Alumni Return to Penn-Mont Each year Penn-Mont holds a very special alumni reception for 6th grade alumni who are graduating from high school. Seven graduates returned with their families on May 12th for a reception in their honor. Time was spent reminiscing with friends, sharing favorite Penn-Mont memories and visiting with faculty and staff. In the fall, this group of Penn-Mont alumni will be attending the following schools and universities: Boston University, Elon University, Penn State University and the University of Virginia.
L to R: Sidra Arshad, Will Tyndall, Ariel Walton, Luke Keenan, Nora Van Horn, Mark Khoury, Felicia Devorris
annual report pennmontacademy.com 7 Nurturing the Unique Gifts in Each Child We all agree that providing a Montessori education is a decision that will shape a child’s future. A child’s earliest years are the time when their basic intelligences are developed: reasoning, language, math, music, art and motor skills. Each year, many families choose to send their children to Penn-Mont for that very reason.
Unfortunately, not all families in our community have the financial resources available to make the decision of a Montessori education a reality for their child. That is why Penn-Mont is 100% committed to removing any barriers to providing our children with the best education. How do we accomplish this and how can you help?
The Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program Did you know that Pennsylvania makes millions of dollars available each year through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC) to be used as “tax credits?” The EITC program enables businesses and individuals to support private schools, such as Penn-Mont Academy, a recognized 501 (c)(3) organization, via scholarship funds…thus redirecting your tax dollars…as scholarships! Tax credits are applied against your tax liability for the tax year in which the contribution was made. It is a win-win for businesses, individuals and Penn-Mont! ways to participate - and 2 you may qualify for both You may participate through the traditional EITC program as a business. 1 Pennsylvania businesses that pay any of the following taxes are eligible to participate in EITC: Personal Income Tax of S Corp Shareholders or Partnership Partners Corporate Net Income Tax Capital Stock Franchise Tax Bank & Trust Company Shares Tax Insurance Premium Tax Title Insurance Company Shares Tax Mutual Thrift Institutions Malt Beverage Tax
Applications are processed by the PA Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) on a first-come/first-served basis by the date submitted until the amount of available tax credits are exhausted. Work with your accountant on the application process and details.
Penn-Mont, along with many community businesses, have participated in the EITC program (established in 2001) for many years, providing hundreds of thousands of dollars to our qualifying families. Last fall, thanks to the support of many businesses and individuals, Penn-Mont was able to assist 60 children with over $114,000 in scholarships to attend our school. Without that aid, those children would not have had opportunity to experience the difference a Montessori education can make in their lives. Participate through a Special Purpose Entity (SPE) as an individual 2 This new era of EITC funding, unlike the traditional business model, adheres to no strict deadlines, and utilizes a simple one-page application process with guaranteed tax credits. You must have a minimum PA tax liability of $3500 to participate. Additionally, there may be federal tax benefits to taxpayers who deduct charitable contributions. Check with your accountant.
Penn-Mont is excited to partner with The Central Pennsylvania Scholarship Fund, a local Special Purpose Entity (SPE) managed by Randy Tarpey and his team (experts in PA state tax credits), who are committed to assisting Penn-Mont achieve success with the program. This SPE was formed specifically to apply for tax credits and pass them through to eligible donors and schools. Many Penn-Mont families and community members have already taken advantage of participating in this program. An initial informational session was held last Spring, led by Penn-Mont friend Joe Adams, Thank you to the following President of Bishop Guilfoyle, providing details on the program. businesses and individuals who Additional sessions will be planned for this year. committed in 2017 and 2018 to supporting Penn-Mont As a result of this new partnership, an additional through the EITC program. $122,600 in scholarship aid was made available Won’t you join them? this Fall 2018 to our qualifying families. Altoona Ophthalmology Associates Allegheny Regional Endoscopy American Eagle Paper Mill / Team Ten Let's Summarize Tom and Katie Brouse Sean and Laura Burke Dick’s Homecare 1 It’s exciting! 2 Helps everyone! Brian and Jennifer Hall Parents and donors can Enables more families The Hite Company direct taxes toward to attend, and helps Brian and Melissa Irwin Penn-Mont instead of everyone by holding M&T Bank Harrisburg. A win-win for down tuition costs. Marcus & Mack both donor and school. The Music Emporium Okonak Ciocca and Lechner, PC The Pretzel Place 3 Funding for Scholarships! 4 It’s simple! Mark and Allison Ritchey This money funds financial Sign up, make the Rutter’s aid to qualified families. donation, and put it S&T Bank on your tax return. Amy Seltzer Seltzer Financial Strategies, LLC Please contact April Sherry, Steve and Nancy Sheetz Matt and Tiffany Stuckey Director of Development, TDS Foods, Inc. for more information. UPMC Health Plan Development Highlights
Financial Overview 2017-2018 Revenue - 1,8 ,72 As we reflect on 2017-2018, the Board of Directors would like to thank TUITION AND FEES the Penn-Mont community for their generosity and support. 1, 8,021 FUNDRAISING 8 % Thank you to the many parents, families, teachers, staff, volunteers and donors who supported these efforts! OTHER
Katie Brouse, President, Board of Directors 187, 8 11% 2017-2018 Net Fundraising
TOTAL FUNDRAISING 1 ,9 81,1 % ,0 1 SPRING GALA
,9 0 PLAY CAMPAIGN
,0 8 PENN-MONT FUND
1 ,2 8 CA$H RAFFLE Expenditures - 1,8 0, 27
,7 0 HARVESTFEST/BRICK CAMPAIGN INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT
,92 MONTESSORI PROFESSIONAL DEV FUND OPERATIONS & MANAGEMENT ,00 SCHOOL FUNDRAISERS DEPRECIATION/ 1,17 , 2 AMORTIZATION % FUNDRAISING OTHER
28,8 7 121,29 2% 90,2 9 % 2 % , 82 2%
Attention Penn-Mont Alumni
No matter where post Penn-Mont life has Campus updates: If you’ve visited Penn-Mont recently, you probably found led you, we hope that you’ll remain connected. yourself saying, “I hardly recognize my school!” A lot has changed over the last Penn-Mont was more than just your school, it few years. Outdoors we added a 2.5 acre educational classroom with many areas was your community, your family, your home! for exploration and play. Indoors, we recently renovated our building to create Alumni and alumni families alike take great pride space for a new music room, a “maker space” to complement our STEAM in Penn-Mont and poses an enduring belief in programs, and we relocated the library. Just this fall we introduced a new infant Montessori education. Founded in 1961, our program. Now Penn-Mont families may place their children with us alumni numbers are growing! We are proud of beginning at age 6 weeks. If you haven’t visited Penn-Mont recently, or you’ve each of you and your accomplishments. It is our never been to the Hollidaysburg campus, don’t you agree you need to! Next belief that whether you were here for just a few time you are in town, let us show you around. Contact the Development Office years, or went the distance from toddler through at 814-696-8801, ext 307, to schedule a time to visit. elementary, you are Penn-Mont alumni! Social Media Need to update your contact information? Go to http://www.pennmontacademy.com/alumni/alumni-form/. Be sure to join our Be sure to stay in touch! We have many “lost” alumni and need your help in connecting with them. Penn-Mont Alumni If you know other Penn-Mont Alumni, please spread the word! Network group on Facebook.
10 pennmontacademy.com annual report Penn-Mont Fund The Penn-Mont Fund The Penn-Mont Fund - Participation by Group ALUMNI & FAMILIES PARENTS The Penn-Mont Fund is a source of support that lets our school say “Yes!” to things like new materials and supplies for FRIENDS FACULTY & STAFF our classrooms, educational field trips, and maintaining and GRANDPARENTS BOARD OF DIRECTORS enhancing the beauty of our grounds and outdoor classroom. 120% More importantly, the flexibility of the Penn-Mont Fund allows us 100% 100% to meet the unique needs of our Montessori school as they arise. 100%
Often families are unsure of the necessity of giving to the 80% Penn-Mont Fund, assuming that tuition covers the complete 60% cost of educating their child. The financial model that supports our school’s operation depends on two principal sources of 40% 10% 10% 10% revenue: tuition and the philanthropy of Parents, The Board, 20% 5% Staff, Alumni, and Friends. Supporting the Penn-Mont Fund is a vital component of this financial equation. 0%
The Power of Participation! The 2018-2019 Penn-Mont Fund Annual Appeal
This year’s theme is The Power of Participation! The Penn-Mont Board of Directors is seeking 100% participation from our Penn-Mont families and community. Remember, it’s not the size of your gift, but the fact that you participate through a gift. Review the chart to see how your Penn-Mont group is stacking up to this challenge. As you will see, we have lots of opportunity for growth. Imagine what we could accomplish with 100% participation! Montessori education sparks curiosity and sets the foundation for a lifetime of learning.
Thank you to our 2017-18 Penn-Mont Fund Donors for their Participation!
Penn-Mont Founders Circle Janet & Virgil Cannarsa Don and Karen Beerbower Ms. Gail Maatman Gifts of $2000 and up Andrea & Michael Cohen Hannah Bennett Ken & Rebecca Maguda Lou & Holly Sheetz Mrs. Nancy Devorris Mr. and Mrs. Eric Biddle Mr. and Mrs. John Maguda Stan Sheetz Philip & Colleen Devorris The Brouse Family Dr. and Mrs. Justin Merry Dr. and Mrs. John Waibel Mark & Rachel Gingrich Mr. John Bruning Mrs. Jessica Mills Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Haught Bob & Linda Bryant Mr. and Mrs. George Mitchell Penn-Mont Association Sue Ann Hess Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Caporuscio Ms. Patty Morris Gifts of $1000 - $1999 Mr. and Mrs. Gene Horomanski Mr. and Mrs. Chris Chilcote Pat & Lisa Myers Steve & Patti Bickley Cora Jones Bev Chronister Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Neely Sean & Laura Burke John F. Knepp Ms. Emily Colledge Dr. and Mrs. Todd Negola Rick & Paulette Cornet Melanie Walton Lee Samantha Conrad Mr. and Mrs. Spencer Nicholson Haleh Haerian & Mehrdad Ghaffari Sam & Jackie Long Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Daum Mr. and Mrs. Derek Park Nancy & Andrew Gurman Mr. and Mrs. Michael W. McLanahan Ms. Sarah Dolinsky Mr. and Mrs. Welbin Prudencio Mr. and Mrs. Justin Mandel Dr. and Mrs. Jesse Montagnese Mrs. Kim Ferguson Mr. and Mrs. Mark Ritchey Wolf-Kuhn Foundation David & Daphne Ollman Mr. Matthew Filan & Ms. Pamela Wronski Ms. Annie Ruggles Gerald & Aline Wolf Mr. and Mrs. Matt Parsons Ms. Jessica Forlina Mr. and Mrs. Alex Seltzer The Pearson Family Ms. Karly Fowler Irving & Judy Seltzer Penn-Mont Golden Bead William & Laverne Penn Ms. Nichole Fuchs Mr. and Mrs. Jordan Settle Gifts of $500 - $999 Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Seffernick Diane & Jerry Galanti Dr. and Mrs. Shaun Sheehan Rakesh & Meera Chopra Steve Seltzer Mr. and Mrs. Dan Grazier April Sherry Mr. and Mrs. R. Lee Hite Drs. Mark and Carol Stephenson Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Hock Mr. and Mrs. Warren Smith The Jabbour Family Ms. Olivia J. Walton Mr. and Mrs. Bill Hollobaugh Erich & Barbara Sokolower Drs. David & Sheela Kerstetter Bill & Judy Ward Ms. Renee Hollobaugh Mrs. Holly Sottile Robby & Andrea Okonak Neil & Lois Kaneshiki Clark & Annie Stapelfeld Dr. and Mrs. Corey Schutt Penn-Mont Pink Tower Mr. and Mrs. Brian Kinser Ms. Marissa Stickles Amy Seltzer Gifts up to $199 Tim & Chris Knepp Denise & Dave Stoneberg Wells Fargo Community Support Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Jim Koller Mary & Richard Truesdale Samantha Adams Joe & Norma Kotarba Thomas Weimer Penn-Mont Hundred Board Mr. and Mrs. Joel Ake Ms. Sarah Kuntz Sharon & Robert Weyandt Gifts of $200 - $499 Jeanie & Walt Bagley Adam Lardieri & Elizabeth Benjamin Joel Wilkinson Ms. Shelley Campbell Lori J. Bechtel-Wherry Mr. and Mrs. Scott Lawhead Kristen Wyant Mr. and Mrs. Michael Cannarsa Don & Sharon Beckstead Mr. and Mrs. Mike Luther annual report pennmontacademy.com 11 Play Campaign Donors Thank You for Making our Play Equipment Campaign a Success! Gift of Natural Play $10,000 - Heather and Derek Jones in honor of Kendra – Kick-off donor for Play Campaign - Katie and Tom Brouse in honor of Maggie & Thomas - The Hite Company in honor of Nathan, Mitchell, Scotty, Maggie & Thomas - Diane and Sean McLanahan in honor of Madison, Lexi, Sam & Kenzi - Allison and Mark Ritchey in honor of Meggie & Ellie - Amy Seltzer in honor of Connor, Grant & Tenley - Holly and Lou Sheetz in honor of Elliott, Hudson, Felix, Sawyer & Lila - Matt and Tiffany Stuckey in honor of William & Joseph Gift of Imagination $5,000 - $9,999 - Kit and Colin Dangler in honor of Leo & Nora - Kathleen Draskoczy in honor of Dr. Steven Draskoczy - Sheela and Dave Kerstetter in honor of Arie & Isaac - Andrea and Robby Okonak in honor of Connor, Grant & Tenley - Sabrina and Corey Schutt in honor of Tyler & Mikayla Gift of Exploration $2,500 - $4,999 - Meera Bajwa & Rakesh Chopra in honor of Leela & Nina - Reena & Mitul Patel in honor of Samira & Shay - Michael Saltzburg in memory of Wendy Walton Saltzburg (grandmother of Trey Saltzburg) Gift of Discovery $1,000 - $2,499 - Julie, David III, Paula, and David Binus in honor of Zoe & Rozalyn - Drs. Edmond Bouassaf and Barbara Labben in honor of John & Christina - Sean and Laura Burke in honor of Gretta, Thomas & Andrew - Tomislav and Lauren Deur in honor of Dylan & Maya - Rachel and Mark Gingrich in honor of Nina - Nancy and Andrew Gurman in honor of Karen Fuhrman & Amy Gurman - Rebecca and Ken Maguda in honor of Nicholas & Carolyn - Emily and Justin Mandel in honor of Felix & Lila - Jessica and Jesse Montagnese in honor of Sam, Lucy, Jonah & Ceclia - Cameron and Jill Murphy in honor of Ethan & Heston - Daphne and David Ollman in honor of Eddie - Tiffany and Jordan Settle – in honor of Hayden & Logan - Joshua and Amanda Siglin in honor of Grace & Emma - Christine and Andy Tyndall in memory of Barbara Tyndall - Chantel Ventura-Garofalo in honor of Grace - Dr. and Mrs. John Waibel in honor of Michael Waibel - Dr. and Mrs. Dennis G. Youshaw in honor of Dax G. Cashner Gift of Adventure $100 - $999 - Anonymous (2) - Patti and Steve Bickley in honor of Lexi - Wes and Peg Bower in honor of William and Joseph Stuckey - Rita and Thomas Brouse in honor of Maggie and Thomas - Mike and Wendy Cannarsa in honor of Solveig and Liam - Karen and Kyle Fuhrman in honor of Nancy Gurman - Patricia Gray in honor of James & Owen Sheehan - Kenneth and Sandra Haberle - Changsoo Hahm and Hyun Joo Cho in honor of Noel - The Horetsky Family in honor of the Horetsky children - Gene and Linda Horomanski in honor of Nathan - Talar and George Jabbour in honor of Celine & Chloe - Ms. Gail Maatman - Jane and Edward Maruca - Carla and Kevin McCue in honor of Dylan - Mr. and Mrs. Michael McLanahan in honor of Madison, Alexis, McKensie, & Samuel - Jen and Justin Merry in honor of Paige & Brooke - Joan E. Miller in honor of Caleigh Shaffer - Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Neely - Brent Ottaway in memory of Ellen M. Ottaway - Fiona and Mark Pearson in honor of Heather, Lizzie & Robert - Tracey Roth in honor of Greer McCaulley - Schoolhouse Hollow Maintenance - Irving and Judith Seltzer - Steve Seltzer in honor of Andrea, Adam, Connor, Grant & Tenley - April and Steve Sherry in honor of Penn-Mont Teachers - Lou Silverman and Veronica Samborsky - Denise Stoneberg in honor of Traci Finn - Tom and Kathy Surma - Dorean and Jim Witham in honor of Owen Witham
12 pennmontacademy.com annual report Event Highlights Fall Harvestfest 2017 Penn-Mont’s annual Fall Harvestfest celebration was held the week of October Celebrating the 23rd. Once again, the week started out well, but ended with the Harvestfest assembly being held in the multipurpose room due to cold weather and rain. Heart of Penn-Mont Throughout the week students enjoyed many educational activities, fun “pumpkin” themed games, and crafts galore. Parents provided the snack, Spring Gala craft and game items needed for the week…thank you! We would also like to thank the Ollman Family for bringing their apple press to the school providing The 2018 Spring Gala, held April 28th, found a beautiful demonstrations and hands-on learning for our students. Thank you to the new home for the event – The Blairmont Club! With many sponsors who helped make Harvestfest week a success! nearly 175 in attendance to enjoy the delicious food, gaming and great entertainment provided by Matt Advanced Chiropractic Pletcher, the event again featured the beautiful artwork Allegheny Supply of our students during the Live Auction. “Experience/ Altoona Family Dentistry Altoona Hand & Wrist Surgery, LLC Product/Services” Silent Auction baskets were bid Beard Legal Group on throughout the evening. Parents and others in Beerbower Jewelers attendance raised their paddles for our “Fund the Brouse Wellness Chiropractic Cove Lumber Need” in support of a new “Maker Space” for students. Curry Rail Services All totaled, the evening raised over $55,000 for Dick’s Homecare Penn-Mont! Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor – Geomatics Solutions Heather McKinney.com / Wiegering The Stapelfeld Family, as well as all our Title and Chiropractic Corporate Sponsors, Patrons, Committee, Co-Chairs Imler’s Poultry Law Office of Joel D. Peppetti, P.C. and Attendees. The evening’s success would not Link & Associates have been possible without you! Maruca Group Okonak Co-Chairs: Ciocca & Lechner, PC Khara Sheehan/Allison Ritchey P&M Design, LLC Committee: Katie Brouse, Anna Caporuscio, Sarah DelBaggio, Rabenstein Heating Claudia Montero, Andrea Okonak, Reena Patel, April Sherry, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, Inc. Annie Stapelfeld, Rebecca Strzelec and Tiffany Stuckey Schoolhouse Hollow Maintenance Presenting Sponsor: Secure-Tec Inc. The Stapelfeld Family Seltzer Financial Strategies, LLC Title Sponsors: Curry Rail Services, The Hite Company, Alex, Lisa, Ryan and Joshua Seltzer Okonak, Ciocca & Lechner PC, Seltzer Financial Strategies Steve Seltzer Power Sports LLC, Stuckey Ford Subaru, Dr. and Mrs. Shaun Sheehan, Sheetz, Inc. Ward Transport & Logistics Corp. UPMC Altoona Corporate Sponsors: Gold – Blair Gastro, Silver – Sheetz, Inc., Bronze – Stephen and Patti Bickley, Altoona Family Dentistry, Chopra Pediatrics, CNB Bank, Chantel Ventura-Garofalo Patrons: The McLanahan Family, The Schutt Family, The Winter CA$H Raffle Siglin Family, S&T Bank, April Sherry Penn-Mont held a new Winter fundraising event last February at the Altoona Grand Hotel. With nearly 300 in attendance, the evening featured a REVERSE CA$H RAFFLE drawing with 200 tickets sold for a chance to win cash prizes. As the evening progressed, taking more and more ticket holders out of contention for the grand prize, additional activities and games included: Trivia, 50/50, Pull Tabs, and a Basket Raffle. Participants enjoyed great food, beverages and a fun evening with friends and family. Thank you to all attendees and CA$H Raffle Sponsors!
Altoona Grand Hotel Attorneys Sean and Laura Burke The Bickley Family Jethro’s LLC Imler’s Poultry Outlet Dick’s Homecare Chantel Ventura-Garofalo The Warren A. Gingrich Agency Geomatics Solutions, LLC Cove Lumber Seltzer Financial Strategies, LLC Cardiology Asso. Of Altoona, LLP Dr. and Mrs. Matthey Bouchard Mr. and Mrs. David Ollman Dr. and Mrs. Jesse Montagnese Dr. and Mrs. Mark Pearson Stuckey Ford Subaru The Law Office of Joel Peppetti Dr. Stewart Van Horn/Dr. Sarah Schroeder Brush Mountain Running and Outdoors Inc. Chopra Pediatrics New Pig Corporation Altoona Family Dentistry Mr. and Mrs. Michael Cannarsa Dr. and Mrs. John Waibel Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Cadwallader Drs. Tomislav and Lauren Deur Ms. Shelley Campbell Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Fix DelGrosso’s Amusement Park Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Brouse Wendt’s Florist Save Spring Gala the April 27, 2019 CA$H Raffle Date The Blairmont Club Save the Date March 2, 2019 Altoona Grand Hotel annual report pennmontacademy.com 13 Giving Commemorative Bricks Gifts in Kind Thank you to the following individuals for their support Thank you to the following individuals and through the Commemorative Brick Campaign. families for their support throughout the year - Colleen Devorris in honor of Felicia Devorris Anonymous - Suzi Brannock in honor of Sam Brannock Kelly Adams Adler's Landscape Nursery - Lauren Deur in honor of Dylan Deur Altoona Curve - Penn-Mont Board of Directors in memory of Ellen Ottaway Altoona Grand Hotel Altoona Mirror Altoona Railroaders Museum / Horseshoe Curve Interested in securing a brick in honor or memory of a Penn-Mont Altoona Symphony Orchestra student or alumni? Contact the Development Office for more Altitude Entertainment Executive Chef Keith Auker, UPMC Altoona information. These beautiful bricks are installed each summer Karen Beerbower in our Outdoor Education Classroom. Beerbower Jewelers The Blair Companies The Brouse Family Brush Mountain Running and Outdoors, Inc. The Caporuscio Family Chuck E Cheese Curry Rail Services The DeGol Organization George and Sarah DelBaggio Don Delozier Everett Railroad Galactic Ice Gardner's Candies Judy Grove Heritage Travel The Hite Company Hollidaysburg Area YMCA Iron Bridge Dinner Theater Juniata Troutfishers Dr. Sheela Kerstetter Heather Laird Lake Raystown Resort Gail Maatman PJ Maceno / Paisley Interiors Maker Studio Martin's Foods Dr. Heather McKinney McLanahan Corporation The Meadows The Mishler Theater Moments Photography Claudia Montero The Music Emporium Erin Myers The Okonak Family Restricted Gifts: Omni Bedford Springs Resort and Spa The Wolf Kuhn Foundation - Scholarships The Park at Morrisons Cove Park Hills Country Club The Patel Family Penn-Mont Board of Directors Penn-Mont Families Montessori Professional PSU Altoona Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts Pleasant Valley Rec Center Matt Pletcher Entertainment Development Fund The Pitt Theater Point of Fitness Thank you to the following donors for their gifts to the MPDF Quality Window Washing Doug Rhodes in honor of 2017 Heart of Penn-Mont Recipient Judy Grove The Ritchey Family Sapphire 9 Boutique Sharon Horn Adams Sean and Diane McLanahan Amy Seltzer Tom and Katie Brouse Andrew and Angel Michanowicz The Sheehan Family Sean and Laura Burke Booker and Janet Moore Sheetz, Inc. Jim and Lynda Burns Robby and Andrea Okonak The Sherry Family Kubilay and Fusun Cardakli Mark and Fiona Pearson Slinky Action Zone Jennifer Soisson Michael and Andrea Cohen Thomas Reese and Kathy Sweeney Spokes-n-Skis Philip and Colleen Devorris Irving and Judy Seltzer The Stapelfeld Family David and Nancy Forr Tina Sheetz Megan Steinbugl / Perfectly Posh Andrew and Nancy Gurman April Sherry Rebecca Strzelec Frank and Michelle Hartye Andy and Christine Tyndall The Stuckey Family Lee and Jane Hite Vince and Diane Vizza Stuckey Ford Subaru Mark and Alison Keating Gerald and Aline Wolf The Summit Tennis and Athletic Club Scott and Laura Lawhead Dennis and Judy Youshaw Sunshine Cleaning Tame Your Mane Charles and Barbara Leiden Tom and Mary Zajac Things Unseen Theater Company David and Bonnie Loth Dennis and Diane Zink Thrive Lawncare Gail Maatman Mary Truesdale UPMC Altoona Alysia Watt Dr. Carlos Wiegering, D.C. Wine Shop@Home / Jennifer Cadwallader 14 pennmontacademy.com annual report Diane Zink HOP Honoree and MPDF 2018 Heart of Penn-Mont Honoree Penn-Mont Academy is delighted Over the decades, Nancy has served to announce Nancy Gurman as this on many committees and task forces year’s Gerald P. and Aline D. Wolf including Education, Nominating, “Heart of Penn-Mont” Honoree. Each Finance, Strategic Planning, year in honor of our founders, we Accreditation, while helping to shape recognize an individual considered the direction and growth of the a true champion of Penn-Mont and school. She was also instrumental Montessori education by virtue of in bringing a Penn-Mont Montessori their leadership, dedication or preschool program to the campus philanthropic support. of Penn State Altoona. Additionally, Nancy Gurman, Esq. shared her Nancy has supported the growth of extensive law background as an Penn-Mont in significant ways for attorney throughout the years more than three decades as a advising and guiding the Board parent, volunteer, board member, in governance of the school. philanthropic donor, and advocate. When Nancy and her husband We cannot thank Nancy enough for Andrew moved to the area, they her significant impact on Penn-Mont. immediately enrolled their daughters After decades of immeasurable Karen and Amy at Penn-Mont and contributions, Nancy’s deep seated became involved in the life of the love, respect and understanding of school. what Montessori can do for children continues to inspire us all. Nancy was soon nominated to serve on the Board; later filling the roles of Please join us in congratulating Nancy. President and Secretary. Nancy’s You may honor her with a gift to the seminal contribution to the school Penn-Mont Academy Montessori took the form of her leadership Professional Development Fund in the resurrection of the school’s supporting the professional elementary program. This level development of our teachers. of programming had not been Help shape the future of our school sustainable at earlier stages in the and enable students to continue to school’s history but Nancy led the benefit from a Montessori education; charge to have it reestablished. She a method that Nancy embraced also championed the “Secure the and lived each day. Penn-Mont Dream” capital campaign to build recognized Nancy during a a new school facility. reception in October.
Penn-Mont Academy Montessori Professional Development Fund (MPDF) in Action! The Montessori Professional Development Fund was established to provide opportunity for Penn-Mont teachers to further their Montessori Training and Professional Last year Penn-Mont utilized MPDFunds to support the Development. As a school accredited by the American following opportunities for teachers: Montessori Society (AMS), Penn-Mont adheres to high - Send several teachers to the American Montessori Society Annual standards for professional staff. Ongoing Montessori Conference in Denver, Colorado Professional Development is required for teachers to - Purchase webinars for staff development / in-service trainings maintain their active credentials as well as grow in their - Send several staff to additional trainings/certifications, and more! ability to deliver an authentic Montessori education for children.
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