Superintendent PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • MAY 2021

been named a 2021 National School Across the DISTRICT of Character by Character.org! I am so proud of our Manor Community,” shares Manor Elementary Principal, SCHOOLS EARN NATIONAL ACCOLADES Terri Salvucci. “We take great pride in our Manor Strong Program. This is the heart of our Please join in congratulating school. Manor Strong is a school-wide program that the following three Pennsbury is inclusive of our whole school community.” schools, which were honored recently by the Character. The National School of Character Evaluator stated, org organization for their “An obvious, and admirable, area of strength is the school-based character way that ‘Manor Strong’ permeates the entire Manor education initiatives: Eleanor Elementary School community. Staff, students, and Roosevelt Elementary School, families are able to easily recite the school’s core Manor Elementary School, and values and explain how they are demonstrated in Pennsbury High School each received the National various aspects of school life. The core values, “Be School of Character distinction for 2021! Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Safe,” have been in place for quite some time and have served as the National certification is the highest level of basis for common language and expectations, as distinction bestowed by Character.org. Schools evidenced by the matrix used to ensure consistency receiving this designation have demonstrated across settings and activities.” excellence in establishing a school culture that exemplifies and brings to life the 11 principles of Manor Strong was established in 2015 and character education. In addition to the rigorous continues to grow stronger every day. This efforts each of these school teams have made to school-wide plan was established to provide a create a caring and compassionate culture, they also positive school climate and to create a supportive completed a daunting application and successfully environment for personal, social, and academic navigated two rounds of evaluation to get to this growth for students and staff. moment. These schools will be formally recognized and celebrated at the Character.org all-virtual fall A Manor Strong Committee works toward Forum, October 20-22, 2021. continuous improvement. “Our team continuously initiates feedback from parents, students, and Following are summaries of each school’s organizations at the state and national level,” stated character education programs. Ms. Salvucci. “This is an effort that involves all stakeholders. We have student ambassadors and MANOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL they have an opportunity for input and action in implementation of program growth. Our PTO “I am very excited to share that Manor has supports our work and allows us time to share out

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • MAY 2021 1 District Highlights Report with the school community and include their input. Program,” said Principal Lisa Follman. “Our three This recognition belongs to everyone!” core values are embedded into explicitly-taught lessons and the core values have become common The evaluators noted the following comments language at ER.” from Manor Community members: ER’s PTO helped to design posters that remind • First grade teacher, Renee Van Dyke: “Expectations the students of the school’s core values. These for the program are explicitly taught; they are modeled posters let students know what the core values and we practice.” “look like” and “sound like” throughout the school. • Third grade teacher, Kathy Palmer, added, “The The Core Character Team, led by the creativity of greatest thing, I believe, is that when you enter Manor teachers, Jason Miller and Kimberly Sendlock, in Kindergarten, you start our program. By the time in conjunction with the talented students on the you get to me in third grade, all you have to say is ER Character Council, have created enjoyable ‘Manor Strong’ and the kids know.” videos and lesson plans to demonstrate school • Longtime Manor parent, Michelle Johnson, agreed values and expected behaviors at ER. “Within that Manor students are “always respectful to coaches our program, students are awarded with Golden and teammates” and added that “the Manor Strong Tickets when demonstrating our three core values,” program has had a positive impact...has carried over said Ms. Follman. School personnel created a into middle and high school years.” special video broadcast on Fridays for the morning • Student, Katelyn, fourth grade: “...the Manor announcements, in which Ms. Follman and teacher, program makes me a better person because I have lots Tyree Annick-Hyle, honor the Golden Ticket of friends. I’m not shy anymore and it makes me more winners from the previous week, followed by a confident.” special character building segment by the school’s very own “Teacher Man.” “I thank Manor staff, students, and parents for continuing to support our Manor Strong Initiative!” “Our core values are such a major part of so much said Ms. Salvucci. “This work is very important to of what we do at ER,” said Ms. Follman. “We start us because Manor Strong is the soul of our school. each day with the morning announcements and We are passionate and will continue this work then we say the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by because we know it is very important to educate the the We Are ER Pledge. We take part in classroom whole child.” lessons and all-school character assemblies. Many of our intermediate students take part in a ELEANOR ROOSEVELT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL character leadership team known as the Character Council, made up of ambassadors of character at Eleanor Roosevelt Elementary School ER. These students help newer students join the ER is very proud to be honored again as community safely, responsibly, and respectfully. At a National School of Character. The ER, teachers and parents support various clubs that mission of Eleanor Roosevelt (ER) is are centered on our three core values, such as the to develop a culture where everyone Diversity Club, Multi-Cultural Youth Leadership is “Respectful, Responsible and Safe” so that each Club, and the ER Runners’ Club. Teachers work student can develop and grow to their fullest with the children on service projects as students potential as a learner and a contributing member learn to give back to the community, such as Caring of the ER community. “We have combined our for Friends, Caring Kids Cards (for our Military), efforts through our work with character education and an Art Supply Collection for Kids at CHOP. and school-wide Positive Behavior Supports Our students also take part in an annual walk at ER and Interventions to create our own We Are ER for children being treated at CHOP through Kids

2 MAY 2021 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

Walking for Kids. For over a decade, the ER PTO announcements. Segments were designed for our has supported each classroom in taking part in an PHS community to stay connected. As for this school annual Valentine’s Day Service Project where our year, clubs and other co-curricular programs such students build care packages for the elderly and as the Air Force Junior ROTC, Student Council, homebound. More recently, the fifth graders have Interact, Salt and Light, Operation Smile, Operation been excited to take part in the annual MLK Day Warm, and National Honor Society have found of Service in Pennsbury. All of these experiences unique ways to transfer the 11 Principles into our have been shaped by our core values and our community service activities. As we reflect on commitment to We are ER.” our character journey, we continue to evolve and integrate social-emotional competencies with the 11 Principles to allow character development to come to PENNSBURY HIGH SCHOOL life in our high school community.” “Pennsbury High School is extremely honored to be recognized as a National VIRTUAL MEET AND GREET School of Character,” reports PHS Assistant Principal, Ryan Regensburg. ATTRACTS TEACHER CANDIDATES Since earning a National School of Administrators from across the School District had Character designation in 2016, the school has the opportunity to conduct first round interviews continued to promote and expand the character last week with more than 100 teacher candidates in education program, specifically highlighting the a virtual setting. “I am so appreciative of everyone’s 11 Principles. “We have further developed our commitment and involvement to make this a PEACE Challenge to include social-emotional successful Meet and Greet event for 2021!” said development,” said Mr. Regensburg. “We have Human Resources Director, Bettie Ann Rarrick. made the PEACE Challenge a focal point to “One positive aspect of our new virtual world is that model and teach desirable behaviors as outlined we are able to recruit many candidates from various by CASEL’s competencies, and continue to find colleges and universities, allowing each of them new ways to implement the 11 Principles during the ability to interview from their own locations. A the school day as well as within the community. total of 13 administrative interview teams met with Not only do we focus on the core values of the 107 candidates, which also included a number of PEACE Challenge, but we have also aligned those long-term substitute teachers currently working in values to our social-emotional learning goals by Pennsbury. What made this event even more special implementing ‘The Nest’ into our weekly routines. was that it aligns with our District goal to actively Prior to March 2020, teachers implemented a recruit, promote, and recommend highly-qualified 15-minute Nest activity that encourages critical thinking and discussion among students.”

Within the context of the discussion, students listen actively to the comments of others, think critically for themselves, and articulate their own thoughts and responses to the thoughts of others, while building relationships within the classroom. “This has allowed our students to have a voice and to take ownership of their own character development,” said Mr. Regensburg. “In the remote learning environment, This interactive landing page was created as a recruitment tool staff and students collaborated with the Pennsbury for Human Resources in conjunction with Pennsbury’s first virtual Channel to ‘Build the Virtual Nest’ through morning Meet and Greet for new teacher candidates.

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • MAY 2021 3 District Highlights Report candidates who reflect diverse backgrounds, have goal of the PoD program is to an understanding of cultural proficiency, and are build a culture of learning and committed to educational equity.” awareness around issues of equity, diversity and inclusion Ms. Rarrick also thanked Superintendent Dr. in the Pennsbury School District. William Gretzula; Dr. Cherrissa Gibson, Director of The PoD courses are optional Equity, Diversity, and Education; Brad McCormick, professional learning sessions, Supervisor of Educational Technology; and Dena open to any District employee, Seiple, Communications assistant, who all helped facilitated by Pennsbury educators. Participants who to support and coordinate the three-hour event. complete four Pennsbury PoD courses can earn a Through a virtual landing page created by Mr. PoD Advocate certificate. McCormick, the candidates were able to view videos about Pennsbury and ask questions of Ms. Rarrick. The PoD courses were developed and facilitated Ms. Seiple handled the sorting of submitted resumes by ten Pennsbury educators who volunteered to and scheduling of interview teams. serve as lead learners in the District’s equity journey. The current PoD course offerings include courses on ODYSSEY OF THE MIND TEAMS WIN BIG racial identity in schools, affirming student’s racial and gender identities, understanding America’s hard AT VIRTUAL STATE COMPETITION history and its impact on the present, culturally- responsive teaching practices, and universally- Pennsbury was well represented at the recent designed instructional practices. Each of the courses State Odyssey of the Mind competition, held serve to build cultural proficiency within the virtually, with seven District teams placing as Pennsbury School District and support equity for shown below. “This was a spectacular showing every learner. from Pennsbury!” writes Rich Fox, President of the Pennsbury OM Association. “Kids and coaches Faculty and staff seeking to become PoD are now looking forward to competing at Worlds.” Advocates will have additional opportunities to Congratulations to all! attend PoD courses throughout the summer and the • Makefield Elementary, Problem 1 - 1st place fall of 2021. New PoD courses will be offered at the • Quarry Hill Elementary, Problem 2 - 2nd place May 2022 in-service day. • Edgewood Elementary, Problem 3 - 1st place “My hope is to continue to build a culture of • William Penn Middle School, Problem 1 - professional learning and cultural proficiency 1st place within the District to support a stronger sense of • William Penn Middle School, Problem 5 - belonging for both students and adults in our school Avery Newton won OMER award community,” said Dr. Cherrissa Gibson, Director of • Charles Boehm Middle School, Problem 3 - Equity, Diversity and Education for Pennsbury. To 2nd place view a video about the PoD program, visit the site • Pennsbury High School, Problem 3 - 2nd place linked here.

PENNSBURY PoD COURSES DEBUT MINI-GRANTS AWARDED TO SCHOOLS FOR ALL STAFF BY PENNSBURY PARTNERS PROGRAM

Pennsbury’s Partnerships of Diversity (PoD) The Pennsbury Partners Advisory Board courses made their debut on May 18th, 2021. The Mini-Grant Committee recently awarded five schools

4 MAY 2021 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report with special, corporate-sponsored manufactured wooden dispensers for 5th grade SPARK mini-grants in the amount of $3,010. students with Home Depot The purpose of these grants is to foster partnership developments in each school that: In the SCHOOLS • Make a positive impact on student academic achievement by linking with curriculum; AFTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL • Combine real-life work experiences to prepare students for satisfying careers; or Please join in congratulating Afton Elementary for • Provide students with opportunities for being selected as the Pennsylvania School of the Year community service activities. and a National Elementary Finalist by the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project. Congratulations to these 2020-2021 winners, The NEED recognition honored the K-5 H.O.P.E. recently announced by Ann Langtry, Pennsbury’s initiative (Helping Others Protect Earth), which Supervisor of Communication Strategies: was developed in conjunction with this year’s Earth Day on April 22nd, along with the energy-related Afton Elementary ($700): curricular activities that took place in the classroom • Rhea Jones/Selena Kelly/Stephanie Reither/ of SPARK teacher, Kristin Slota. These lessons Megan McGee – Rocks, Minerals and Fossils Show included Forms of Energy Investigations (first grade); with Mike and Roberta Straka (Paleontologists) Solar Energy Investigations (second and third grades); • Michele Lippincott/Coleen Jones – UNLESS & and Algae Academy / Future Biofuel (fourth and fifth Habitats Around the World with the Elmwood Park Zoo grades).

Fallsington Elementary ($850): Earth Day at Afton included a series of • Cherie Lynn Kooker/Jennifer Tietz – Litterless grade-appropriate events Lunch/Edible Landfill with Waste Management and and outdoor guest Gary Sanderson speakers who focused on • Cherie Lynn Kooker/Jennifer Tietz – UNLESS & conserving energy and Habitats Around the World with the Elmwood Park Zoo resources through the theme of Reduce, Re-Use, Penn Valley Elementary ($600): Recycle, and Repair. With • Jennifer McCormac – Rocks, Minerals and Fossils the willing support of Teacher Kristin Slota shares an Show with Mike and Roberta Straka (Paleontologists) Afton’s Acting Principal, Earth Day birthday with this • Kevin Haugland – Silent Brass for a Musical Home Jeanmarie McGinley, a Afton second grader. with Music & Arts team of faculty members combined their efforts to create this special William Penn Middle School ($360): opportunity for the entire student body. Afton students, parents, and teacher leaders are invited • Lauren Marcinkowski/Jordyn Dalbenzio – Hand to attend the 41st annual NEED Youth Energy Bell and Looper Class Demonstration and Equipment Conference and Awards scheduled for later in June with Music & Arts in Washington, D.C.

Pennsbury High School - West ($500): According to the organization, all • Jessica Perfetto – PHS student- designed and NEED-designated schools have outstanding

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • MAY 2021 5 District Highlights Report classroom-based programs in which students learn Perry Warren - PA State Representative about energy. The students and teachers set goals Steve Miller & Adrienne Fors - Waste Management and objectives and keep a record of their activities. Katie Heaton - Bright Farms In April, the students combined their materials into Gary Sanderson - Pennsbury School Director & presentations and submitted them online. Environmental Specialist Chip Taylor - Pennsbury School Director and Afton joins William Penn Middle School in their Local Farmer/Entrepreneur recognition by NEED. William Penn was selected as the Pennsylvania School of the Year in 2017, 2018, Lauren Dalmatoff - One Tree Planted and 2019 and also named the National Junior School Bella Ritchie - Vanderbilt University of the Year in 2018. Special Earth Day videos and presentations As part of the were available in each homeroom teacher’s Google H.O.P.E. initiative, Classroom after the event. The H.O.P.E. Committee Kindergarten teacher, extended special gratitude to Afton teachers, Ms. Emily Kopchinski, Gougher, Mr. Guenther, and Ms. Reither, for reports that Afton creating these presentations. “Ms. Kopchinski and doubled their Mr. Hugo did a TREE-mendous job creating the trees fundraising goal outside the library that showcase the success of the Waste Management of $500 and raised school’s fundraiser!” said Ms. Koehler. First grade representatives led outdoor $1,000 to donate to teacher Rachael Hauben was also instrumental discussions about recycling. One Tree Planted, in setting up a number of “Skype a Scientist” an organization that presentations for the Afton students. Finally, for will plant nearly 1,000 trees in the student-selected Arbor Day (April 30th), third grade teacher, Louise Chippewa Forest in Minnesota. This forest is a Hopkins, arranged for all 509 Afton students nesting site for the American bald eagle. Thanks to to receive a mini greenhouse to plant American the efforts of Art teacher, Trish Baehser, students in Sycamore trees at home. grades K-5 designed their own wearable Earth Day buttons. They also received Earth-shaped seed paper Ms. Koehler and along with directions so that they could plant the H.O.P.E. Committee seeds at home. member and SPARK teacher, Kristin Slota, “A special thank you to the PTO for purchasing added: “Remember the button supplies, the seed papers, and many of the that every day is Earth Earth Day books that we shared with our students,” Day and there is still said Afton librarian, Deb Koehler. “It is wonderful to more to come with the have a PTO that is always ROOT-ing for us and does revitalization of our so much to help our students GROW!” Each student Afton garden, led by also received a reusable shopping bag donated Ms. Hopkins and Mr. by ShopRite and an Earth Day Celebration favor. Kerchak with the help of Donations were provided by such local partners as Ms. Cramer, Ms. Foster, Chick-fil-A, McCaffrey’s, GIANT, Lowe’s, Home and Mr. Guenther. We Depot, Chewy, and Red Berry. look forward to seeing our Afton garden come Guest speakers during the H.O.P.E. activity back to life!” According to Ms. Slota, the Afton included: community is already looking forward to partnering

6 MAY 2021 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report again with Waste Management’s Adrienne Fors for a a superhero theme and decorations, along with K-5 STEM Bird Feeder Design Challenge at the end special signage on the school’s front lawn,” said Ms. of May. Cahill. “They also provided incredibly generous and thoughtful gifts and an overwhelming amount EDGEWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL of delicious treats! The staff was so moved by the support of our wonderful PTO. It has been a unique Edgewood parent, Lauren Haque, shares the and challenging year, and it has meant so much to following on behalf of the PTO: “As the pandemic have the support of our PTO!” continued, food insecurity began to rise, even here in our Pennsbury community. During the last two weeks MAKEFIELD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL of April, the Edgewood PTO hosted a food drive to restock the shelves of the Penndel Food Pantry in April was a busy month at Makefield. “We hosted Langhorne. This pantry serves families in Pennsbury the second annual Yes You Can 5K” said PTO and our local community. Erin Baker, Amy Estroff, President, Joanie Layden. “With participants from and Caterina Anastasiou organized a drive that was all schools in the Pennsbury School District and collected entirely outside of the brick-and-mortar many local sponsors, we were able to raise funds school – at their homes, by the car drop-off line, next for all Pennsbury PTOs and donate $1,500 to the to the bus loop – and the students really delivered! local nonprofit, Pennsbury Kids. The enthusiasm Edgewood families donated 1,444 pounds of food around town for the duration of the 10-day event to the pantry, enough to last until the beginning of was unmatched. Students are now sporting their summer. This is in addition to the 1,000 pounds of medals and t-shirts with pride. We look forward food that they donated at Materials Exchange events to hosting in person next year!” Families from throughout the year.” Well done, Edgewood! Edgewood, Eleanor Roosevelt, Makefield, Quarry Hill, Pennwood, and PHS completed the Yes You FALLSINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Can 5K together.

The Fallsington PTO went above and beyond to Makefield also hosted the annual Friendship Walk recognize staff during Teacher Appreciation Week in honor of Autism Awareness Month. “Usually, (May 3-7), according to school counselor, Kristen students make a new friend and walk around the Cahill. “The PTO transformed the building with school holding hands and wearing blue,” said Ms. Layden. “Because of current protocols, we adjusted the plan. Classes walked around the school wearing blue and holding onto a rope. The rope symbolized that all of the kids - regardless of their different abilities - are connected. It took a lot of teamwork for the classes to stay connected.”

MANOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Manor families took part in a Library Card Drive at the end of April to encourage students to sign up for cards at the Levittown Branch of the Bucks Teachers and staff at Fallsington Elementary School were County Free Library. During the two-week period, greeted by indoor and outdoor signs and decorations in honor 106 Manor students applied online for library cards! of Teacher Appreciation Week. Shannon Collins, the Youth Services Librarian at

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • MAY 2021 7 District Highlights Report the Levittown and Langhorne branches of the Bucks County Free Library, reported that is the most she has ever had from one school and said, “That is a record for me!”

Megan Edson, Manor’s school librarian, promoted the drive by making a video and a flyer, but says the success of the drive came from the support of the homeroom teachers and Principal Terri Salvucci, who mentioned the library card drive in her daily communications with parents and in her morning announcements. “We are thrilled Two sisters at Oxford Valley Elementary were excited to that so many of our families signed up and will have display their new library cards. another option for checking out not only books but also movies, e-books, and games over the summer,” said Ms. Edson. (Manor) embarked on a weekend field trip to the library to create video tours to get the kids excited. It worked! Oxford Valley had 46 students sign up OXFORD VALLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL for library cards! (See Manor’s write-up for their exciting library card news.) This year’s annual Reading Olympics competition – celebrating reading at the elementary level -- looked a bit different from past years. After the PENN VALLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL event was cancelled last year due to the pandemic, an alternative format was designed so the students Third grade students at Penn Valley were treated could compete,using the Kahoot digital response to a virtual visit with two owners of the local Philly system. Ribbons were based on the number of Pretzel Factory, thanks to their sister, Pennsbury points scored. Every team in the District received teacher, Heather McGurrin. The talented Kean t-shirts with a logo of a Chromebook and the words, brothers took questions from the students and “Reading Virtually Everything.” The Oxford Valley demonstrated the various phases and aspects of team, coached by Donna Fay, Jennifer Dillon, and creating their food products. They also discussed Ilene Smith, met every Friday after school. “Our some of their more challenging and unusual requests team worked hard to read as many books as they could while still learning virtually and in the hybrid format,” said Ms. Dillon, the school librarian. “We just kept encouraging them to keep reading, reading, reading! And all that hard work paid off with a blue ribbon. We are so proud of our team!”

Oxford Valley was one of several schools invited to partner with the Levittown Library to get public library cards into the hands of students. School The Kean brothers (top row, second from left) shared their knowledge about pretzel making with third grade students at librarians Jennifer Dillon (OV) and Megan Edson Penn Valley Elementary.

8 MAY 2021 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report from customers, including such custom pretzel shapes as a “turkey pretzel,” a “Pope pretzel,” and a “Bryce Harper pretzel!”

QUARRY HILL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Twelve students taught by Gifted Support teacher, Robyn Rowlands, participated in the UNLESS contest sponsored by the Philadelphia Zoo, a Pennsbury Partner. The project is aimed at promoting conservation as well as helping an endangered animal. The Quarry Hill students raised $1,361, which went directly to the conservation efforts in Brazil to protect the Golden Lion Tamarin. Aside from raising money, the class focused on the correct way to recycle pizza boxes. The class Girl Scout Troop #2036 spent time sprucing up the front gardens designed a sticker that was given out to several at Quarry Hill Elementary, including a memorial garden that lies local pizza shops to inform patrons about recycling beneath a tree planted in memory of 9-11 pilot, Victor Saracini. the boxes. The class had researched the correct method before writing letters and delivering the up, the troop paid special attention to the memorial stickers to the stores. Winners were announced at a tree bed created in front of the school in 2001 to virtual celebration on May 6th. Quarry Hill students honor pilot Victor Saracini. Mr. Saracini, then a won second place and will receive a trophy and a Quarry Hill parent, died tragically on September 11th monetary gift! that year when his plane was hijacked by terrorists and flown into the World Trade Center. The troop cleaned up the bed, learned about the events of 9-11 from their troop leaders, talked about Mr. Saracini, and learned how to retire a U.S. flag properly when they replaced the aged flags that were part of the memorial display and planted new ones.

CHARLES BOEHM MIDDLE SCHOOL

Charles Boehm Thespians had the thrill of a lifetime on May 4th when they filmed a scene of their virtual musical with Congressman Brian Quarry Hill Elementary students participated in a contest Fitzpatrick, shares Thespian advisor and vocal sponsored by the Philadelphia Zoo – and earned second prize! music teacher, Matt South. “This year’s production, although virtual, will still feature the usual singing, dancing, and special surprises that fill a Charles In honor of Earth Day, Girl Scout Troop 2036, Boehm musical. In picking a production, I always led by Quarry Hill parents, Clarissa Makhoul and pick something that will feature the most students, Victoria Czechowski, asked Principal Rich Rebh if has fun memorable moments, includes teachable they could perform any clean-up jobs on the school moments, and offers the opportunity for special grounds. Their offer was most welcome, and in surprises.” addition to a few garden spots that needed sprucing

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • MAY 2021 9 District Highlights Report

assembled together as one large art installation in a common area at Pennwood that will enable students to “turn” the canvases to create multiple designs. The overall themes of this month’s art sessions, along with last month’s virtual visits, are inclusion, understanding, and respect for all students. Visit https://wheelsoffriendship.mikaylasvoice.org/ Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick joined Charles Boehm Middle School to learn more about Wheels of Friendship and students as they played their parts in “Schoolhouse Rock Live Jr.” Mikayla’s Voice.

When it was announced that any musical for this year would need to be virtual, Mr. South immediately chose Schoolhouse Rock Live Jr. “because it features all the above and can be done virtually.” Rehearsals began virtually and special surprises were planned. Then on May 4th, the biggest one came to life. Schoolhouse Rock includes all of the favorite songs from the original TV show, including I’m Just a Bill – so who better to include than a sitting Congressman? With a special connection from PHS student Derek Quinn, Mr. South’s dream became a reality and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick joined in via Zoom and recorded a quick little scene with the students. At the end, Representative Fitzpatrick invited the cast to join him on the floor of the House of Representatives when it reopens for visitors. “The students are excited and looking forward to this amazing opportunity. So, once again the curtain will rise at Charles Boehm and the joy of theatre will fill the air!”

Pennwood Middle School students were delighted to participate PENNWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL in a “Wheels of Friendship” art project sponsored by a group called Mikayla’s Voice. In a continuation of the partnership with Mikayla’s Voice that began at Pennwood in April Gifted Support teacher, Audra Golder, shares (see last month’s issue for details), students and news about a special effort at Pennwood that marked art teachers joined together to work on a “Wheels Earth Day this year. “Have you ever thought about of Friendship” project this month. Mikayla’s Voice how difficult life would be without access to clean resident artist, Miss Julie, provided individual art water?” asked Ms. Golder. “There is a non-profit kits containing paint, colored tissue, brushes, and organization that is helping Americans in rural glue so that the participating students could work areas of New Mexico and West Virginia gain access together with her through virtual sessions. As Miss to this valuable commodity. A group of students Julie demonstrated each step, the students created at Pennwood wanted to work together to raise colorful canvases using the tissue squares and money for this group, called Dig Deep. So starting in glue. Eventually, these completed canvases will be January, Keerthana Gopal, Kavya Gounder, Kiley

10 MAY 2021 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

Hollner, Nivi Kanubaddi, Emily Moonay, and Katya Nirschl met once a week with me to organize a Four Liters Challenge and donation opportunity in celebration of Earth Day. On Thursday, April 22nd, over 100 students and faculty members participated in the challenge while others made donations. A total of $862 was raised and donated to support the work of Dig Deep. The top fundraisers were Ethan Falco, Kiley Hollner, and Olivia Czyz. Prizes donated by Pennwood families and business partners such as McCaffrey’s Food Market and Wawa were distributed. Congratulations to everyone at Pennwood who helped spread awareness and change the lives of other Americans in need!” For more information, visit www.digdeep.org.

Dog balloons and a puppy kissing booth attracted young guests at a fundraiser for Alpha Bravo Canine. The event was organized as a Pennwood Middle Schooler’s 13th birthday celebration that focused A “Dig Deep” fundraiser on assisting U.S. military veterans with PTSD. held at Pennwood Middle School helped students The organizers were even treated to a special visit learn about the lack of by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, who stopped by clean water in some rural parts of the United States. to show support! Donations are always accepted by Alpha Bravo Canine. Checks made out to the organization may be sent by mail to P.O. Box 16030, Philadelphia, PA 19114.

WILLIAM PENN MIDDLE SCHOOL Pennwood student, Nicky Christopher, chose Dianne Haley, a sixth grade teacher, shared her to spend his 13th birthday raising funds for Alpha gratitude with the William Penn community for the Bravo Canine, a nonprofit organization that raises overwhelming support everyone showed for the and trains service dogs to donate to U.S. military school’s first annual Earth Day food drive. Students, veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress staff and community members donated over 750 disorder. This is the second fundraiser that Nicky nonperishable items to fill the shelves of the William has hosted for Alpha Bravo in the parking lot by Penn food pantry. “This drive was a huge success the Lower Makefield Township pool complex. and would not have been possible without so much Joining him at the event were Pennsbury students, support!” said Ms. Haley. “Our William Penn Ben Ruepp (Pennwood), Julie Stockton, Adam students in 6th, 7th and 8th grade enthusiastically Christopher, Tommy Cridland, Joy and Ryann brought in items and received a raffle ticket for Moran (PHS), and Lucia Betman (Quarry Hill). The each item donated to win WP gear. Special thanks puppy-raising coordinator for Alpha Bravo is Ben’s to our student volunteers, Alysa Curry, Melina mom, Tracy Ruepp, who was also in attendance. Fabiano, and Matthew Sherman, for working in the

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • MAY 2021 11 District Highlights Report

Penn for Teacher Appreciation Week. The cards were distributed to our faculty members and students were also able to keep a few blank greeting cards for their own use. This brightened the day of the faculty and staff of William Penn. I was extremely impressed at the length of the heartfelt messages in the letters. Virtual students were also able to participate in this project. Our students had the most kind and compassionate things to say, and I truly valued their enthusiasm for this activity.”

PENNSBURY HIGH SCHOOL

The PHS MINI-THON Club did their best despite the odds this year to stage another successful An Earth Day food drive at William Penn Middle School successfully fundraiser for the Four Diamonds Fund to support re-stocked the shelves of the school’s pantry in support of District families dealing with pediatric cancer. This year families in need. the event was postponed from winter to spring due to the pandemic, but the students persevered collection center and coordinating the raffle tickets. and assembled a large, outdoor event with games There were over 50 winners of WP swag, including and organized line dancing, all the while following hoodies, t-shirts, drawstring bags, and water health and safety protocols to keep everyone bottles!” safe. Under the advisement of teacher Meaghan Cappelloni, a Penn State graduate herself who William Penn’s Odyssey of the Mind students worked on ‘THON during her college years, student get a shout out from Gifted Support teacher, Isabel leaders Carissa Van Veen and Kendall Swirles, Latch: “The team of Anna Chiang, Ryan Fox, both seniors, led a group of 150+ students in raising Nishka Vyas, Avigail Wus, Zachary Dill, and over $28,500 for the cause. Well done! Alexandria Cheeseman came in first place with the problem ‘OM’er the Romer’ at the virtual PA State Finals competition on April 21st.” Well done and good luck at Worlds!

William Penn art students in teacher Blair Greiner’s third and fourth marking period classes chose their favorite art designs for a special project overseen by Student leaders at Pennsbury High School took charge to make Ms. Greiner. “I used the most of this year’s outdoor MiniTHON fundraiser for the Four Google Slides to arrange and print greeting cards Diamonds Fund. Their efforts generated over $28,500! with the students’ selected artworks,” said Ms. Greiner. “Then the students used their cards to write The PHS Unified Track Team earned third place over 200 letters to the faculty and staff of William in the Bucks County Regionals competition on May

12 MAY 2021 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

11th. The team, coached volunteer their time and technology skills to help by Erica Rudesyle and their friends and classmates adapt to the new school Jaclyn Ward, included 26 technology platforms and systems. “We are truly high school athletes: 14 committed to helping PHS students during this athletes and 12 partnered uncertain time of need,” said junior, Krishna Thaker, athletes. Next year, the PATH President. “As the new student tech team at team is looking forward to PHS, we want to help all students stay on the right expanding Unified Sports path during virtual and hybrid learning.” within PHS by launching a Unified Bocce Team during the winter season 2022, while continuing the 4th Unified season of Track and Field. The team would like to send a special thank you to PHS Assistant Principal, Lou Sudholz, and Regina Rausch, Director of Special Education, for supporting and promoting this team. A student group called the Pennsbury Association for Tech Help (PATH) provides technical support for high school students via #PlayUnified #LiveUnified asynchronous means as well as after-school Google Meet Help Desk sessions. Club advisors and Technology Coaches are Michael When the new school year began in a fully-virtual Hermann and Megan Swope (top row, second and third from left). learning environment, the introduction of a new instructional platform known as Canvas at the Tyler Busack, also a junior, added, “I’ve always secondary level led to numerous questions from liked working with computers, and with people users. That is when an idea for a tech support group everywhere forced to get comfortable with them, I for high school students, comprised of high school feel honored to be able to use my experience to help students, was first developed, shared Education them with that.” Technology Coach, Megan Swope. The goal was to enable students to consult their peers for technical PATH is more than a vital tech support service for assistance rather than going to faculty members. the school and community. It’s also an opportunity After some discussion at the administrative level, an for the members to get hands-on experience in the invitation was distributed among students in grades technology support field and develop leadership 9-12 and suddenly a flood of applications arrived. skills. “PATH allows me to work on my interests Interviews followed, and a new student tech team while also helping our school community,” said was created. With guidance from advisors, Ms. junior, Henry Lane. Swope and Michael Hermann, also an Educational Technology Coach, the Pennsbury Association for While PATH is relatively new, the group has Tech Help (PATH) went live in January 2021. assisted nearly 30 students since January. This is a major accomplishment, considering the team has PATH offers troubleshooting and technology help never met in person. All meetings, decisions, and services for any PHS student. Technology support groundwork were achieved solely through video is offered one of two ways: submitting a help desk conferencing. “We see lots of long term possibilities support ticket, or attending a live Google Meet for the group,” added Ms. Swope. “I’m proud to be session held during designated office hours. PATH is a PATH advisor because it is great to be part of an led and operated by a group of 14 students, ranging organization that is doing good for Pennsbury in from freshmen to juniors, who are passionate about an otherwise difficult year.” To learn more about technology and helping their peers. These students PATH, check out their website linked here. www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • MAY 2021 13 District Highlights Report

The PHS SeaFalcons Underwater Robotics Shea. The Sea Falcons would like to thank their Club washed away the competition at the Greater advisor, Cathy Costello, and SeaFalcons founder, Philadelphia SeaPerch and SeaGlide Challenge, John Sanders, for their endless support. hosted by the College of Science and Technology at Temple University. The SeaGlide team won the Early in April, the Pennsbury Key Club planted Overall SeaGlide Champion award along with a “Positivity Garden” near the PHS East bus dock first place recognition in four of the five assessed to spread happiness and cheer this spring season, categories! These included the presentation and shared faculty advisor, Jennifer Hillemann. design report as well as two live challenges where “This beautiful flower garden is decorated with they searched for errors in the code and wiring of uniquely crafted, hand-painted stones that a simulated circuit. In their competition, the Sea feature motivational and uplifting quotes,” said Perch team won the ASNE Engineering Process Ms. Hillemann. “The creation of the Positivity Award. Students met virtually throughout the Garden was made possible thanks to the support 2020-2021 school year to compile design reports, of the Pennsbury community through Key Club’s computer-aided design models, circuit schematics, a fundraisers. During this difficult time, Key Club commercial, and a presentation for their autonomous hopes that everyone stays hopeful and positive, takes underwater vehicles, which were assessed by the time to smell the spring flowers, and gets involved Naval Surface Warfare Center of Philadelphia at the in helping the community!” Club participants in this competition Thursday, April 22nd and 23rd. They project included: Lynsie Lightman (President), Casey also had the opportunity to learn from Commanding Schaeffer (Vice-President), Julia Bates (Secretary), Officer Capt. Dana Simon about his experience with Emily Rittenhouse, Samantha Boyce, Madison the Navy. Russell, Krishna Thaker, and Anna Ye.

Autonomous underwater vehicles like this one, designed by Pennsbury students in the PHS SeaFalcons Underwater Robotics Club, were judged at the Greater Philadelphia SeaPerch and SeaGlide Challenges held at Temple University. Members of the Pennsbury High School Key Club worked hard to create a “Positivity Garden” to spread happiness and cheer in the The SeaGlide team was led by presidents Rory bus dock area at PHS East. Stalter and Aiden Stein, and included Thomas Cridland, Srujan Damaraju, Miranda Newton, Gabriela Podlesny, Ansh Shah, and Adam Steppe. The SeaPerch team was led by president Sam Booher, and included Vinay Belogodu, Alex Huegler, Riya Lahkani, Luke McKeon, and Jack

14 MAY 2021 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

Commendable LYFT CHARACTER AWARDS ANNOUNCED FOR MAY ACCOMPLISHMENTS In conjunction with Pennsbury School District’s ongoing character education initiative, students at BOEHM STUDENT EARNS PRIZE the elementary, middle, and high school levels are FOR “FUEL UP” PROJECT being spotlighted each month for possessing specific positive character assets. For the month of May 2021, Charles Boehm Middle School eighth grade students were recognized for exemplifying the trait student, Elana Ruppersberger, was awarded $1,000 of “Leadership.” The students recognized this month for a Fuel Up to Play 60 project that she completed are Rowan Mulholland, Navya Patel, Thomas in March called “Mind and Body.” Elana attended Morris, and Sydney Becker. multiple Zoom sessions with The Dairy Farmers of America and associates from Fuel Up to Play 60, Rowan Mulholland is an eleventh grader at which included former NFL players. Her project Pennsbury High School and was nominated by proposal included adding gym equipment that Frank McSherry, Dave Murphy, and Pete Sienko. would give students the opportunity to work toward They note that although she is a junior, Rowan a healthier lifestyle. Elana is in the process of helping has emerged as the team leader for the Pennsbury to pick out a piece of gym equipment that will have High School softball team. She leads exercises and a lasting impact for students at Charles Boehm. throwing drills. Her teammates wait for her for Principal Travis Bloom was very excited to hear instruction between innings or to lead them in the about this student’s project. “We are so proud of team chant. On and off the field, Rowan is a model Elana for all of her hard work,” said Mr. Bloom. “She for younger players and with her guidance, they is showing her Boehm Pride by helping to make our improve their skills. Rowan is also a leader in the students healthier.” classroom, maintaining a 4.5 GPA, despite spending six days each week with the softball team.

Thomas Morris, an eighth grader at Charles Boehm Middle School, is May’s winner at the middle school level. He was nominated by Heather Mengert, Anita Quinn, and Debra Diamond. Tom is Class President and in this role he displays all aspects of leadership. He independently plans, communicates, and runs Student Council meetings. He is a good listener and ensures that all members are present and heard. He has proposed, planned, and run many events during this school year. Thomas is an inspiration in the classroom. His personality allows him to easily take on leadership roles while working with his peers on problem-based learning opportunities. Charles Boehm Middle School student, Elana Ruppersberger, brought Falcon Pride to a new level when she won $1,000 to put toward new gym equipment at her school, thanks to an NFL Fuel Up to Play 60 At the elementary school level, the first award proposal she submitted. this month goes to Navya Patel, who is in the fourth grade at Fallsington Elementary School. Navya

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • MAY 2021 15 District Highlights Report was nominated by Meagan Mauck, Katie Romig, Jenn Cornell, Kristen Cahill, and Principal Vinny DePaola. They say that Navya is a student of great character and a true leader. She holds herself to high expectations and consistently sets a positive example for her peers. She thrives in planning and organizing tasks. She motivates classmates when they get an answer right and helps them when they get confused. Whenever there is a problem that needs solving, Navya is the first to offer solutions and strategies to help out.

Also honored at the elementary school level this month is Sydney Becker, a fifth grader from Eleanor These Pennsbury High School students produced the winning Roosevelt Elementary School, nominated by Jason public service announcement about safe driving in a contest Miller and Samantha Young. According to her sponsored by TMA Bucks! nominators, Sydney is a leader in academics. She puts forth her best effort in class and always goes above that were in place this year, this group was able to and beyond on assignments. Her work ethic sets an collaborate on the project safely and efficiently,” example for her peers. Within the school community, said PHS video production teacher, Dan Mahoney. her positive attitude motivates others, too. As a “The thoughtful message is a video reminder to all member of Student Council, Sydney has taken her of us as we start to venture outside again. I’m so leadership responsibilities very seriously. She has impressed and proud that others will be able to see created numerous videos to promote fundraisers and the results of their hard work.” helped the school give back to the community. Pennsbury High School will now receive a $500 PHS STUDENTS WIN CONTEST cash grant from TMA Bucks and the PSA will air on FOR SAFE DRIVING PSA Comcast networking. “This school year was once again a challenging The Transportation Management Association one for so many students and we would like to first (TMA) of Bucks County, a Pennsbury Partner, is and foremost thank each and every school that still pleased to announce that “Pennsbury High School found a way to submit a video,” said TMA Bucks has been voted the winner of this year’s Teen Driver executive director, Stephen Noll. “Teen driver Safety Video PSA Challenge powered by Comcast!” safety remains an extremely important issue and these schools understand the importance of raising Pennsbury was voted the winner over six other awareness to potentially help save lives. TMA Bucks Bucks County high schools by the Reality student thanks Comcast and the Bucks County Courier Times writers of the Bucks County Courier Times & The and The Intelligencer for continuing to partner with Intelligencer newspapers. The winning public service us on this important program.” announcement was put together by PHS seniors Kaitlyn Garbinger and Jeffrey Schaal as well as juniors Andrew Santella and Heather Thomas. PENNSBURY CHORAL PROGRAM View the 30-second PSA message here. PRAISED IN PUBLICATION

“Despite all of the challenges and restrictions Kudos to the PHS Choral Department, led

16 MAY 2021 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report by Vocal Music Curriculum Coordinator, James Pennsbury. For us to have three teachers attend the Moyer, for being cited in a recent publication titled, PAECT KTI program for three consecutive years is Creating Excellence in Choirs and Orchestras, by Dr. an incredible honor and a testament to the talent of Dennis Shrock and published by GIA. In Chapter our educators.” 14 of the publication, the PHS Choral Department is referenced as a “model choir,” with two pages DR. GIBSON FEATURED AS GUEST of information detailing the choral program. “Dr. Shrock has had the opportunity to work with the PANELIST AND SPEAKER students and choirs at PHS on many occasions,” said Dr. Cherrissa Gibson, Mr. Moyer, “so he understands first-hand how we Pennsbury’s Director of Equity, operate. I am honored and humbled that Dr. Shrock Diversity, and Education, has chose our program to list in this new book.” had several recent opportunities to highlight the School District’s CHARLES BOEHM TEACHER SELECTED progress toward equitable FOR KEYSTONE SUMMIT educational practices. Through this work, Pennsbury has Pennsbury K-12 Mathematics emerged as a leader in the Curriculum Coordinator, areas of diversity, equity, and Dr. Cherrissa Gibson Gary McManus, is proud inclusion. to announce that Charles Boehm teacher, Natalie In April, Dr. Gibson participated on the YWCA Rube, was selected as one “Stand Against Racism” panel, speaking on how of Pennsylvania’s Keystone racial disparities exist in education and how school Technology Innovators. “The districts, like Pennsbury, are working to address program is highly selective and them. Topics discussed by the panel included Natalie Rube recruits the best of the best in the Impact of Racism on Healthcare Access and the realm of technology across Quality, Education Access and Quality, Social the state of Pennsylvania,” said Mr. McManus. and Community Context, Economic Stability, and “Natalie will attend the Keystone Summit, which is Neighborhood and Built Environment. designed for outstanding educators selected each year by members of the PA Education Council Additional appearances by Dr. Gibson include: of Technology. This week-long summit provides • Co-facilitating an Equity Roundtable Discussion resources and opportunities to nurture and enrich as a part of the 2021 RTM Northeast Innovation the skills of selected educational leaders while Forum. Administrators from school districts advocating for the importance of technology along the East Coast participated in this education. Natalie joins the ranks of Pennsbury wide-ranging forum. Dr. Gibson discussed the educators, Jen Sroba, PHS math teacher, and systemic implementation of equity initiatives in Jeanmarie McGinley, currently Afton Elementary’s school districts. Acting Principal, who were former PA Keystone Technology Innovators.” • Serving as one of four speakers (representing Pennsbury, Abington, Centennial and Erie) Mr. McManus added: “Natalie is an extraordinary on a panel highlighting equity administrators math teacher and already brings so much to our and initiatives in PA, facilitated by Dr. Nikole team. This really is an indication of Natalie’s abilities Hollins-Sims, Special Advisor on Equity to the and the strong team of teachers we have here in Pennsylvania Department of Education (K-12).

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • MAY 2021 17 District Highlights Report

• Joining a conference titled, “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Education” presented by Gwynedd Mercy University. Dr. Gibson served on a panel that focused on “Educational Equity Perspectives.”

CHRISTOPHER BERDNIK ELECTED TO TWO OFFICES

Please join in congratulating Pennsbury’s Chief Financial Officer, Christopher Berdnik, who volunteers as an advisor for the Speech and Debate Upcoming MEETINGS Team at Pennsbury High School. Mr. Berdnik was recently re-elected to a two-year term as chair of the Board Facilities Committee National Speech and Debate Association’s Valley 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., June 3, 2021 Forge District. In addition, he was just re-elected to the Executive Board of the Pennsylvania High Board Education Committee School Speech League for a three-year term. Thank you for your service and for representing 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., June 3, 2021 Pennsbury, Mr. Berdnik! Board Finance/Partnerships Committee ADMINISTRATORS EARN PROFESSIONAL 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., June 8, 2021 CERTIFICATIONS Board Action Meeting Mr. Berdnik is pleased to 7:30 p.m., June 17, 2021 announce that Brian Russell, Supervisor of Maintenance, and Stephen Waterson, Supervisor of the Purchasing Department, PASBO is the state were each approved for initial professional association of status as a Pennsylvania school business officials Certified School Business whose responsibilities include Specialist by the Board of the business and service functions of public and Directors of the Pennsylvania Brian Russell Association of School Business non-public schools. PASBO’s Officials (PASBO). In order to be granted the purposes are to promote professional certification status by PASBO, a the highest standards of school business official must meet high personal, Stephen Waterson ethics and practices in school ethical, and professional standards established for business administration the certification program. These include formal and to encourage professional development and education, experience, and continuing education. improvement of individuals engaged in school Once attained, the certification must be renewed business management. every four years through a program of professional development.

18 MAY 2021 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org

WHEN: Saturday, May 22nd TIME: 9:30 AM & 10:00 AM Start Times WHERE: Pennsbury High School, Meet at PHS Track

Step 1: Register to Join our Pennsbury Team: https://www.bestbuddiesfriendshipwalk.org/pennsylvania/supporting/#pennsbury

Step 2: Complete Google Form for In-Person Participation -Please complete for ATTENDANCE purposes and planning

Step 3: Fundraise

Step 4: Show up to the Event on your chosen Start time.

Step 5: Support Best Buddies: Click to Purchase Gear Deadline to order is April 29th

Step 6: Optional - Sign up to Volunteer: Click to Volunteer

Friendship Walk Expectations ● Have Fun ● Build Friendships ● Take pictures ● Take water breaks as needed ● After the walk is complete, participants are advised to exit off of school property

Covid Health and Safety Guidelines ● Mask Required ● Social Distancing ● No Huddles ● Completed Covid Waiver