Superintendent PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • DECEMBER 2018

• Makefield Elementary School Principal Donna Across the DISTRICT McCormick-Miller and teacher Colleen Fucich - $565 to fund a Franklin Institute assembly covering the science concepts of water. PENNSBURY EDUCATION FOUNDATION • Charles Boehm Middle School Principal Travis PRESENTS GRANT AWARDS Bloom, librarian Carolyn Wert, and reading specialist Maria Gregory - $1,800 to host author The Pennsbury Education Jordan Sonnenblick in the spring of 2019. Foundation (PEF) recently • Pennwood Middle School Principal Derek awarded seven grants to schools Majikas and teachers Colleen Brodbeck and across the Pennsbury School Abby Bevington - $400 to fund the Egypt and District, totaling nearly $7,000. Nile River Outreach Tour. The PEF is a 501(c)3 organization that relies on donations and supports the purpose of ARTS FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES improving teaching and learning in Pennsbury 2018-19 GRANT WINNERS through innovative educational initiatives. PEF President Annette Young announced the following Congratulations to the following grant recipients grant recipients, and noted that another round of whose grant applications were approved by the grants will be offered in the spring of 2019. Board of the Pennsbury Arts Foundation: • Oxford Valley Elementary School Principal • Pennwood Middle School teachers Douglas Donna Minnigh and librarian Jennifer Dillon Disbrow and Colleen Brodbeck - $500 for Arden - $500 to purchase a MackinVIA digital content Theater Drama School. management system. • Oxford Valley Elementary School teacher • Penn Valley Elementary School Principal Barbara Shannon Little - $490 for Drums Alive! Hidalgo and teachers Kristin June, Sue Kline, • Walt Disney Elementary School teachers Lorie and Jess Sheedy - $1,600 to purchase a Bee-Bot. Becker, Katie Duncan, and Aphrodite Crane • Penn Valley Elementary School Principal - $500 for Caring for Each Other character Barbara Hidalgo and librarian Jennifer Dillon education program. - $500 to purchase a MackinVIA digital content • Eleanor Roosevelt Elementary School teacher management system. Kathy Royal and reading specialist Alisa Myles - • Eleanor Roosevelt Elementary School Principal $500 for Pluto is Missing: the Musical. Lisa Follman and reading specialist Alisa Myles • Pennsbury High School West vocal music and teacher Reita Bakshi - $1,500 to purchase teacher, Lindsey Strauss - $500 for an Opera books for the Diversity through Multi-Cultural Master Class with Tenor and PHS alumnus Literature program. Andrew Owens.

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • DECEMBER 2018 1 District Highlights Report

• School supplies, all new bedding, school snacks, and other necessities for 40 children; • Diapers, wipes, clothing, and food for a local • Charles Boehm Middle School vocal music military family in need; teacher, Matthew South - $500 for All UKE Can • Complete Thanksgiving meals for over 40 local Do: Enhancing the General Music Class (grades 6-8). families; • ShopRite and Target gift cards, groceries, an NEIGHBOR IN NEED GROUP entire new bedroom set, and Christmas gifts for COMES TO THE RESCUE a sick mom with three young children going through a divorce; Thanks to the coordinating efforts of Pennsbury • Holiday gifts for over 100 children and teens parent, Elizabeth Kearney, her immediate family, through Saint Wilfred’s in Camden; friends, and the generosity of fellow community • Financial assistance for students to attend school members, the non-profit organization known events such as field trips and the Senior Prom; as Neighbor in Need was formed to assist those in need in the Pennsbury community and some • Dinner out, presents, care bags, and a visit with surrounding areas. The group works in tandem with Santa and Mrs. Claus for 23 children who recently our Pennsbury social workers to provide just the lost a parent (or both) to addiction; right confidential assistance to District families who • Hosted “Dinner with Santa” at the LMT find themselves in a variety of needy circumstances. Community Center for 25 families in need. When asked to list ways the group has assisted They received gifts from Santa, a performance others in the area, Ms. Kearney provided the from Sing! Voice Studio, stockings filled with following, comprehensive list: goodies from a local Girl Scout troop, and dinner provided by four local restaurants; • Meal trains and/or financial support for over 50 local families all for different circumstances: • Provide the Bucks County Emergency Relief health, finances, and loss; Association and Bucks County Emergency Homeless Services with constant deliveries of • Over 700 breakfast bags for the senior center, food and necessities; the homeless, Saint John’s Church, community outreach in , Coalition for the • Donated over 200 Halloween costumes to Homeless of Bucks County, and the Drueding children in need; and Center of Philadelphia; • Provided Pennsbury social workers with • A month’s worth of groceries, diapers, and wipes Christmas gifts for Pennsbury families in need, for a single mom and her three young children; along with over $750 in gift cards. • Over 2,300 lbs. of food to four different food Thanks go to the many generous community banks; members and to Ms. Kearney for her organizational • Over 500 books for the Camden County Shelter skills in making these tremendous contributions to and children’s groups; local families and individuals in need. Ms. Kearney’s • 250 complete care bags for the homeless; daughter, Sarah, has also launched a student club at Pennsbury High School to organize similar efforts. • Over 650 items of necessity for Puerto Rico If you would like to assist or donate to Neighbor Hurricane Relief; in Need, visit https://www.facebook.com/ groups/1791099444474846/.

2 DECEMBER 2018 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

Looney. A culminating project, called the “Inclusion In the SCHOOLS Snowflake Landscape,” will be formed to share messages about how we can all include others.

EDGEWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ELEANOR ROOSEVELT The first week of December marks Inclusive ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Schools week nationwide. The week was created to celebrate “the progress that schools have made Ms. Helen Stopper, a former Pennsbury in providing a supportive and quality education administrator, visited Eleanor Roosevelt on to an increasingly diverse student population, November 9th to share a presentation with the third including students who are marginalized due to grade students about the history of Veterans Day, disability, gender, socioeconomic status, cultural writes teacher, Kris Bria. “Ms. Stopper and her heritage, language preference, and other factors. sister, Louise, shared the importance of Veterans The week also provides an important opportunity Day in our country, and that this year would mark for educators, students, and parents to discuss the 100th anniversary of Veterans Day. Ms. Stopper’s what else needs to be done in order to ensure that engaging presentation included history, math, their schools continue to improve their ability to music, and poetry, allowing the third grade students successfully educate all children” (inclusiveschools. an opportunity to connect to the presentation in several ways. The presentation began with a video org). Edgewood Principal Stephanie Hultquist said that “this year’s theme, Kaleidoscope of Friends, of the ringing of the World Peace Bell. Students is being celebrated at Edgewood in the sharing of then recited the Pledge of Allegiance and sang the a student-created video being rolled out by a select National Anthem. Ms. Stopper named November group of student ambassadors.” Leading the way 9th as a Day of Peace at Eleanor Roosevelt, inviting for Project Inclusion at Edgewood are the following students to become ambassadors of peace at school, at home, in our community, our state, our country, students: Benjamin Bruno, Kaden Knight, Ayan and in the world. An emphasis was placed on Das, Derek Grezlak, Brendan Milliken, Chris the fact that Veterans Day is a patriotic holiday, Becker, Matthew Hammer, Anisa Parekh, Johannes allowing people to honor the men and women of Boekamp, Carly Clark, Isaac Kramer, and James our country who have served in all branches of the

Helen Stopper, a former Pennsbury administrator, came to These enthusiastic student ambassadors are leading the way Eleanor Roosevelt Elementary to speak with students about for Project Inclusion at Edgewood Elementary. the significance of Veterans Day.

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • DECEMBER 2018 3 District Highlights Report military. Discussion also centered on the history of graders jumped rope, danced, raced, and even Armistice Day and how it was renamed as Veterans suited up in football gear. The Eagles mascot, Day, honoring all veterans, alive or deceased. Swoop, also made an appearance to help motivate Students also learned about the Tomb of the the students. The students accepted the PLAY60 Unknown Soldier, other memorials throughout the challenge, which means they will log their daily country, and the ceremonies honoring Veterans Day activity minutes for a full month. The goal of each year. Ms. Stopper concluded the presentation this program is to motivate the students to make by sharing beautiful music from around the world, healthy choices each and every day.” allowing the diverse population of Eleanor Roosevelt to enjoy a connection to the music. Students FALLSINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL followed up the presentation by creating timelines of the history of Veterans Day or flip books about Last month, Fallsington hosted their annual Title I heroes. This is the third year that Helen Stopper Family Night, according to reading specialist, Sheila has visited Eleanor Roosevelt to share the history of Miley. “Mindfulness coach, Jacquie O’Malley, taught Veterans Day with the third grade students.” mindfulness techniques to parents and guardians while our students enjoyed a yoga lesson with Earlier this month, representatives from the certified child yogi, Deb Crasnick,” said Ms. Miley. Philadelphia Eagles and the American Heart “Our learning community grew with excitement Association visited Eleanor Roosevelt to present an as Ms. O’Malley shared the potential impact of NFL PLAY60 assembly to the fifth grade students, mindfulness in our classrooms, including, but not writes teacher, Jason Miller. “The assembly limited to, improving focus and concentration, featured an interactive game show that allowed raising self-awareness, decreasing stress, and students to learn about healthy eating, exercise increasing calm. While enjoying cookies and milk, habits, and the importance of playing and being participating families waited mindfully to see if they active for at least 60 minutes a day,” said Mr. were one of the lucky winners of the mindfulness Miller. “It also featured physical challenges to get books that were raffled off at the end of the night. students moving while showing the importance Without a doubt, the night was a huge success!” of exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle. The fifth

Philadelphia Eagles cheerleaders joined team mascot, Swoop, at Eleanor Roosevelt Elementary to underscore the importance of A certified child yogi came to Fallsington Elementary one evening staying active and making healthy choices as part of the to teach children yoga techniques as their parents and guardians NFL PLAY60 initiative. focused on mindfulness with another guest expert.

4 DECEMBER 2018 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

Ritchie. “We were exploring different states of MAKEFIELD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL matter and conducted a science experiment,” said Ms. Ritchie. “We made predictions about what In November, author Andrea Davis Pinkney would happen to ice when we put it in cold water. visited Makefield. “We had been preparing for her During the experiment, we then made observations visit across all disciplines,” shares PTO President, and discussed solids and liquids. When we were Joanie Layden. “Librarian Ms. Pope used FlipGrid finished, we wrote down our observations in our to have the students post questions for the author journals, just like scientists would do! We learned that we viewed on the day of her visit. Art teacher, that we could change ice, a solid, into water, a Ms. Stout, painted suns with the kids because the liquid. My friends had so much fun and can’t wait sun is a recurring theme in Ms. Pinkney’s book, for the next experiment!” Martin Rising. Ms. Fantuzzo worked with some students to prepare a little Ella Fitzgerald music for Ms. Pinkney’s arrival because one of her books is Ella Fitzgerald. In addition, Principal Donna McCormick-Miller, Ms. Spalla-Pointer and I went into the classrooms to read excerpts from one of the author’s works. The books were Sit-In for the younger kids and Martin Rising for the older kids. These books both tied to the theme of our school this year – “I AM.” Just as Martin Luther King, Jr. in Martin Rising and the protesters in Sit-In stood up for what they believed, stood up for themselves, and found pride in themselves, our students stood up and were proud of who they are, too.”

Pre-K students at Manor Elementary conducted a science experiment to explore the different states of matter.

Vocal music teacher, Marta Grothman, writes: “Manor Elementary recently kicked off its fourth anniversary of implementing the Schoolwide Positive Behavior program. We began with an assembly to review our school’s goals featuring our Manor Strong Ambassadors and several staff members in a game of Jeopardy. After the assembly, Children’s author, Andrea Davis Pinkney, was a guest at Makefield the entire school went outside to practice their Elementary. Ms. Pinkney met with every grade level, tailoring her presentations to different age groups. teamwork skills to form the Manor “M”. This proved to be a lot of fun. Hats off to our art teacher, Beth Brody, for creating a plan to make our “M,” our MANOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL school counselor, Carmela Bunch, for creating the Jeopardy game, teachers Mary Parisi and Kristin The Pre-K students at Manor acted as scientists Cimochowski for taking charge of our Manor Strong recently, according to their teacher, Catherine Ambassadors, and our custodian, Brian Marsula,

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • DECEMBER 2018 5 District Highlights Report

With the assistance of IT staff members, Brad McCormick and Amanda D’Amico, the students in Cherie Lynne Kooker’s first grade class had an opportunity to conduct a coding activity right in their own classroom. This tied in with the international initiative known as the Hour of Code. In this case, the first graders were challenged with using computer software to change the direction of a drone and ensure gift delivery in a Dr. Seuss’ Manor Elementary students and staff worked together as a team Grinch-themed program. to form this gigantic “M” on school grounds. for the photography. As always, we thank our wonderful Manor staff for their support!”

OXFORD VALLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

The students in Julie Samples’ fourth grade class are pen pals with residents of the Arden Courts of Yardley senior home. “Such facilities are often in need of ways for the residents to stay in touch with the community around them, especially this time of year, and so I emailed a variety of them in the area, and Arden Courts was the first to reply with great enthusiasm!” said Ms. Samples. “We received our IT staff member, Amanda D’Amico, worked with first grade first letters last week and are now in the process of students on a coding activity at Oxford Valley Elementary. writing our first letters back, along with a winter poem and watercolor artwork piece. Each student has been matched with a senior and both sides are Members of the Air Force JROTC Unit PA-20171 having the time of their lives! We plan to continue participated in the second annual Oxford Valley this all year long because, as one of my students said, Veterans Day breakfast and celebration. “Our ‘Having a pen pal is all about learning about others, four-person Color Guard presented the Colors connecting with others, and filling each other’s hearts and other cadets shared words of gratitude and with joy!’ I couldn’t put it better myself.” thanks with the Veterans attending,” said Technical Sergeant (Ret.) Chauncey Ivey. Cadets who spoke included: Cadet Commander: C/Lieutenant Colonel Victoria Thompson, Deputy Vice Commander: C/Lt Col Kamya Jefferson, Special Operations Squadron Commander: C/Maj Montana O’Neill, C/ Maj Trinity Morris. Color Guard members present included: Alpha Flight Sergeant C/SSgt Joshua Swenk, Delta Flight Sergeant C/ SSgt Jana Elenany, C/Airman Stephen Bartos, and C/Airman Andrea . “Our cadets were honored to take part in These fourth graders at Oxford Valley Elementary were so excited to Kemmerer hear from their pen pals at the Arden Courts of Yardley senior home. an event that highlights the service and selflessness of our nation’s veterans,” said TSgt. Ivey.

6 DECEMBER 2018 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

PENN VALLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL WALT DISNEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Reading specialist, Kerry Bauerle, writes: “While The Pre-K and Kindergarten classes at Walt most children in Pennsbury spent October getting Disney gathered for a friendly feast, according ready to dress up for Halloween, the students at Penn to Pre-K teacher, Tarisa Bosack. “Each class Valley were dressed and ready for an adventure at brought Thanksgiving favorites to share and all the South Pole! Penn Valley was graciously awarded of the students enjoyed the tasty food,” said Ms. a Pennsbury Education Foundation grant that Bosack. “Gathering as friends and family is what funded our participation in One School, One Book. Thanksgiving is all about!” Our title, The Adventures of a South Pole Pig, followed the adventurous hooves of Flora, a pig who becomes a sled dog. Each family, faculty member, and staff member received a copy of the book, along with a calendar detailing how many pages to read a night (about 15 on average). Every Sunday through Thursday, Penn Valley families read together. The next morning, trivia questions were shared in Students in Pre-K and Kindergarten classes gathered for a classrooms as families wondered if Flora would end friendly feast at Walt Disney Elementary. up as bacon or as the hero that saves the day!”

CHARLES BOEHM MIDDLE SCHOOL

The Family and Consumer Sciences Department at Charles Boehm is taking sewing skills outside the classroom for a good cause. The newly-implemented Sewing Club meets once a week after school to work on community service projects. To get in the

Teachers at Penn Valley Elementary were ready for an adventure at the South Pole as the entire school participated in a “One School, One Book” project.

Ms. Bauerle continued: “The Penn Valley PTO has generously offered to purchase the books for our next One School, One Book experience, which we hope will happen in the spring. One School, One Book is a non-profit program that attempts to create a home and school partnership as well as a greater sense of community as a whole. This is so that our community can come together and have a shared A new Sewing Club at Charles Boehm Middle School deployed the experience. The idea is to promote reading, to skills of many students in the creation of fabric “caddies” for local promote community, and to have fun.” seniors to use with their walkers.

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • DECEMBER 2018 7 District Highlights Report holiday spirit and give back to the community, details about her surgery with the students as they the first project that students are working on are continue to work on the kindness initiative that the walker caddies for the elderly at Chandler Hall. The 8B team has created. student-made caddies help the elderly to transport items and personal belongings with ease while PENNWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL using a walker. It is a great way for students to get involved in the community, while applying skills The Eagles mascot, Swoop, made an appearance at they learned from the classroom. Ms. Williams and Pennwood on the day the school was participating Ms. Goldstein are looking forward to future projects! in a PJ Day fundraiser for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Teacher Ryan Kennedy shared the Charles Boehm students, staff, and families news that the students raised over $1,300 for the provided 29 families with full Thanksgiving meals cause. Well done! last month. Thanks to the generosity of the school community, they were also able to donate extra Math Specialist Michelle Taylor writes: “As a part items to the local homeless shelter. This project of the school-wide positive behavior interventions was organized by the Boehm Student Council and and supports initiative, Pennwood created the Student Council Advisor, Ms. Mengert, and school Flying Falcon 200 Club. During the course of each nurse, Ms. Martell. “This not only shows how school day, ten slips are given out to students who our school community comes together to support show ready, responsible, and respectful behaviors. families, but it also teaches our students about The recognized students sign the celebrity book giving back to others,” said Ms. Mengert. Another and select a number for their placement on the example of giving back was illustrated when Boehm Flying Falcon 200 Club board. When ten or more students participated in “Say YAY to Pajama Day” blocks in a row are filled, those students win a on December 6th. Students raised over $600 for ‘mystery motivator’ prize. Pennwood would like to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia! congratulate the first winners of our Flying Falcon 200 Club - Andrew Prebola, Chasity Santiago, Brett Gifted Support teacher, Anita Quinn, writes: Phillips, Philip Martino, Michael Hartman, Garrett “Boehm sixth graders got a head start on the Hour of Code Week by coding an interactive Solar System and completing independent research about the planets and the Sun. Individuals then moved on to core programming concepts such as loops and conditionals, as well as JavaScript and/or Python syntax. Beginners and expert coders were able to participate in the Hour of Code in many fun ways.”

This month, a speaker from the Children’s Craniofacial Association came to visit Charles Boehm Middle School, reports English teacher, Meaghan McCafferty. “Jaci” spoke to eighth graders who had recently read the book, Wonder. She discussed her experiences with bullying, overcoming adversity, and working toward building a kinder The Flying Falcon 200 Club was formed at Pennwood Middle School and more thoughtful community. Students got to to recognize students who show ready, responsible, and respectful speak with Jaci after her presentation and ask her behaviors. At left in the top row is Assistant Principal Vincent questions. She was kind enough to share photos and DePaola and at right is Principal Derek Majikas.

8 DECEMBER 2018 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

Raccagno, Angelina Gatti, Muzaina Ahmed, Bridget Gauthier, Nicole Murillo, and Jadyn Rogan! These students received a Chick-fil-A gift card! Thank you for being respectful, responsible, and ready! We are Pennwood! We are UNITED!”

WILLIAM PENN MIDDLE SCHOOL

Dr. Michael Hogan, Assistant Principal, shares that students, teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrators from William Penn took time during weekends to volunteer for the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle fundraiser. Stations were set up at the ShopRite in Yardley and at the Oxford William Penn Principal Chris Becker (left) and Assistant Principal Valley Macy’s. This is William Penn’s third year Dr. Michael Hogan greeted the Eagles mascot, Swoop, during his visit in conjunction with a CHOP fundraiser at the school. participating in this fundraiser. Ms. Melnick. “Several seventh grade students, with the help of teacher Jamie Kuhner, made over a hundred scrunchies to sell, donating all the money from the sale to the cause. Swoop went into several of the classrooms and the gym to visit with our students. Everyone had a fun day and were were #comfyforacause! We are already looking forward to our fourth annual Pajama Party.”

“But I’m only 12!” Ms. Kuhner’s seventh grade Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) students were excited and surprised to learn that they were going to explore the world of careers and create a brochure. This year, every seventh grade FCS Students from William Penn Middle School were among the student will complete a survey on the website, many Pennsbury volunteers assisting with the Salvation Army’s My Next Move. Upon completion of the survey, a Red Kettle fundraiser this season. list of professions that match their interests will be generated. Students have the ability to look On the same day that the Eagles mascot, Swoop, at several lists of careers that differ according to visited Pennwood (see page 8), he stopped in the amount of education required for the job. The to have some fun with William Penn students, brochure must include their chosen career, required teachers, and administrators during their PJ Day for education, average salary, skills needed, and job CHOP fundraiser, too. The visit was coordinated outlook. “In order to make the career project more by Physical Education teacher, Denise Melnick. meaningful, students will utilize the Pennsbury This was the school’s third annual Pajama Day High School Course Selection booklet,” said Ms. fundraiser to benefit CHOP. “Our students and staff Kuhner. “They will use this to see what courses made donations in order to participate, and as a would best prepare them for their career or support school we were able to make a donation of $1,800 college courses they may need to take in order to to the Child Life department of the hospital,” said obtain the degree they are seeking.”

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • DECEMBER 2018 9 District Highlights Report

game where the Spotted Lanternfly was crushed) were PENNSBURY HIGH SCHOOL Brendan Hahn, Audrey Bush, Madison Webber, Ryan Zajdel, and Taylor Matulis. AP Environmental AP Environmental Science class representatives teachers Kristen Realdine and Tracey Hemmerle traveled to the Bucks County Intermediate Unit on have been instructing all AP Environmental Science November 9th to compete in the Spotted Lanternfly students about the harmful effects of invasive species Hackathon, shares K-12 Science Curriculum to the flora and fauna of our native Coordinator, Jamie Swanson. In this competition, ecosystem. This competition highlighted their students competed against 23 other Bucks County creativity to reach all people of the state and help to schools to develop an app design that would locate, educate and spread awareness. report, and educate on the invasive species, the Spotted Lanternfly. The insect is native to On November 29th, members of the Principal’s and is invading Pennsylvania, making its way Advisory Committee and the Multi-Cultural Youth to Bucks County just this fall. This colorful pest Leaders Club, along with sponsors Ms. Titano, Mr. attacks hardwood trees and fruit vines, industry and Campbell, and Mr. Sanders, attended a workshop commerce for Pennsylvania. Students communicated at the University of Pennsylvania called the Delaware their vision with Pennsbury High School 11th Valley Consortium for Excellence and Equity. “This grade student Anirudh Ramanathan, who served one-day workshop was intended to help support as key coder for both teams. Using their ideas of the development of the leadership and academic environmental education and detection of invasive potential of diverse students,” said Mr. Sanders. “Its species, the team of Rahil Dixit, Laurel Dietrick, aim was to enlighten students about addressing their Samantha Kovacs, Caitlin Doyle, and Julia Finkel challenges effectively in school and in life, as well earned 2nd place for their idea of ”Say Goodbye to the as to empower them to make sound decisions about Spotted Lanternfly” game that had the user slash the their futures.” insect for points, but they had to avoid slashing native insects as well. The game was similar to “Fruit Ninja” Mr. Sanders continued: “This learning experience and helped the user properly identify the invasive was designed to inspire emerging student leaders to species in all parts of its life cycle. Also competing (by proposing an excellent idea of a “candy crush”-type

AP Environmental Science students competed in the Spotted PHS teacher John Sanders (left) was among the chaperones who Lanternfly Hackathon at the Bucks County Intermediate Unit #22 accompanied these students to the University of Pennsylvania for a in Doylestown. workshop on diversity and leadership.

10 DECEMBER 2018 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report seek high levels of personal and academic success and to accept leadership responsibilities for making positive contributions to their families, schools and society, develop a network of students to support possible future collaboration among these emerging leaders, and to engage students in activities that will foster personal leadership development, build a diverse community, and assist in establishing meaningful continuing leadership activities in their respective school districts.”

Family, Career & Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) held their annual BINGO night at PHS West, reports Family and Consumer Sciences Curriculum Coordinator, Allyssa Churchwell. “Families and students came together in support of the club,” she said, adding, “This event not only helped to raise money for the club, but also Once again, the students of PHS joined together to assemble promoted personal growth and leadership within.” Thanksgiving food baskets for Pennsbury families in need.

“I am extremely proud of how the officers and members worked together to make this event a need this Thanksgiving. The baskets contained everything from turkey to pies and cookies. Thanks success!” said Renee Hanna, FCS teacher and FCCLA advisor. “One of the goals of FCCLA is to to the Best Buddies, each basket was decorated with build a strong relationship with the community. The Thanksgiving decorations. students in FCCLA went around to local business owners to seek donations for the BINGO basket Fifteen PHS students, prizes. Attendees were lucky enough to leave along with teachers, with some great baskets that included gift cards to Betsy Taggart and restaurants, Eagles memorabilia, and more.” Matthew Snyder, traveled to Sitges, Spain to participate in PHS teacher Robin Skogen writes that the Pennsbury High School community collected toys an 11-day exchange for 100 Little Angels and filled 100 Salvation Army with Escola Pia de stockings again this year for local families in need. Sitges. While there, The Social Justice and Ethics classes partnered with the students got to experience the daily the Salt and Light EOP Club and after-school Fueled lives of Spanish Club to prepare and pack the Salvation Army vans. “The Thanksgiving baskets were easier and more students, participate full this year!” said Ms. Skogen. I want to thank the in classes conducted regular turkey team and and all who donated food! in Spanish, and travel Additionally, thanks to our newest members!” to Figueras, Girona, and Barcelona multiple times. “During the trip, the students forged strong friendships with their host brothers/sisters and can’t In addition, the Salt and Light EOP Club wait for them to come to the U.S. for their part of the partnered with the Air Force Junior ROTC and exchange program in April!” said Mr. Snyder. Best Buddies to pack 21 baskets for families in

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • DECEMBER 2018 11 District Highlights Report

World Languages Curriculum Coordinator, Aerospace Science Instructor, TSgt. (Ret.) Andrea Garberina, shares, “This past November, Chauncey Ivey, reports that last month, cadets from the Pennsbury School District World Language Air Force JROTC Unit PA-20171 participated in Department hosted an Intermediate Unit the Annual Lower Makefield Veterans Day parade. Professional Development day. Sixty World “Thirty cadets stood tall braving the wind and cold Language teachers from Bucks County middle and to support an event aimed at honoring our nation’s high schools were in attendance. Presenter and treasured entities, our veterans,” said TSgt. Ivey. National Board Certified French teacher, Michelle Kindt, spoke about Comprehensible Input and explored its capacity to elicit meaningful learning Commendable experiences within the World Language classroom. ACCOMPLISHMENTS German teacher, Linda Smith, organized the second session of Kinder Lesen Deutsch in November at the Yardley-Makefield Library. “Nine elementary LYFT CHARACTER AWARD students enjoyed reading Brauner Bär, was siehst WINNERS ANNOUNCED du denn da? (Brown Bear, Brown Bear, what do you see?) and learning how to say animals and colors In conjunction with the Pennsbury School ‘auf Deutsch!’” said Ms. Smith. “Susi Marion, District’s ongoing character education initiative, Alexis Kamat, Lizzie Danford, Samantha Morgan, students at the elementary, middle, and high Gwyneth Child, Phoebe Child, and Patrick school levels are being spotlighted each month for Diamond, plus fellow German teacher, Amy possessing specific positive character assets. For DiFazio, all brought their energy and enthusiasm the month of December 2018, students are being with them as they not only taught the words, recognized for exemplifying the traits of fairness but also played games and made a craft with and sportsmanship. Honorees this month include our elementary students. We will offer two more Kate Piccionotti, Becker, Brian Drewes, and sessions in the springtime thanks to the generous Kiana McIntosh. grant provided by the American Association of Teachers of German.” Our first elementary winner this month is Kate Piccionotti. Kate is in the fifth grade at Fallsington Elementary School and was nominated by Meagan Mauck, Carey Stolber, Linda Minnes, Angela Mastropaolo, Kristen Cahill, and Principal Brian Shaffer. They see Kate as a remarkable young person who stands out for her great character. She always goes out of her way to include all classmates, being able to act as a leader during activities, as well as willing to let others take the lead. During Student Council elections, Kate was fair, supportive of other candidates, and did not get caught up in the competition. She is a school safety, a role she takes seriously, and in the cafeteria she respects all students and ensures they are treated fairly. PHS German students had fun teaching German words and sharing children’s literature with elementary students at the Also winning the character award at the Yardley-Makefield Library. elementary level is Sydney Becker, who is in the

12 DECEMBER 2018 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report third grade at Eleanor Roosevelt Elementary School. Sydney was nominated by Kris Bria, STUDENT WORK SELECTED FOR Hannah Rumbelow, and Brian Doron. Sydney LITERARY MAGAZINE embodies fairness and sportsmanship throughout the day. She encourages others to give their best Sophomore Rebecca Uhlman and junior Sarah effort and is empathetic to all. Sydney is incredibly Uhlman both have creative work featured in the inclusive, always keeping an open mind and inviting winter edition of a literary magazine for high school other students to work with her if they do not have students. Rebecca’s story, The Elephant Garden, and a partner. She is a good sport in Physical Education Sarah’s poem, A Monster is Near, were selected from and always shares the ball with her team. Win or submissions across Pennsylvania, Delaware, and lose, she always tells the other team “good game.” southern New Jersey. The magazine also published photography by the two sisters. Brian Drewes is an eighth grader at Charles Boehm Middle School and was nominated by “Rebecca and Sarah contribute to our PHS literary Team 8B. The faculty members shared that Brian is magazine,” said Nate Drenner, English department an agile athlete and a leader on the soccer field. He chairperson and literary magazine advisor. “It’s is open minded, respects others’ opinions, and is extra special that both were recognized by the larger always looking for the best possible outcomes. He writing community – in the same edition. They have consistently wants to ensure that others are a part of a lot of talent, and their appreciation of the written the team when playing class games. word is evident.”

Our high school winner this month is Kiana Philadelphia Stories Teen is available at libraries in McIntosh, who is a senior at Pennsbury High Philadelphia, Montgomery County, and Delaware School. Kiana was nominated by Physical Education County. The magazine can also be found online at Curriculum Coordinator, Lori Trickel. Ms. Trickel www.philadelphiastories.com/junior. notes that Kiana gives extra time to help others in her Adventure Education class. Kiana is happy to PHS THESPIANS LEAVE THEIR partner up with anyone in class, and in particular, she displays patience and understanding with peers MARK AT STATES in her weights class. Thespian Troupe 830 attended the 2018 Pennsylvania State Thespian Conference at MUSIC STUDENTS SELECTED FOR just a few weeks ago. ALL-EASTERN FESTIVAL IN PITTSBURGH This weekend-long conference featured friendly competitions, scholarship auditions, educational Congratulations to Jordan Spivack, Gregory workshops, and stage performances. Pennsbury Glatzer, and Amanda Rearden for being invited to High School students performed very well, with the participate in the NAfME (National Association for following highlights: Music Educators) All-Eastern Festival in Pittsburgh • Seven superior Individual Events qualifying for from April 3-6, 2019. “The All-Eastern Festival performances at the International Festival; is comprised of the best students from all of the All-State Festivals from Maine to Florida. It is a • Sydney Sobkowiak earned the All Star Cast sincere honor to have one student participate in Member award for her performance in MAGIC this prestigious festival, let alone three!” said Frank THEATRE; Mazzeo, Instrumental Music Coordinator. • DJ Tomalin was awarded a $100 scholarship for acting;

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • DECEMBER 2018 13 District Highlights Report

• Samantha Belinski was awarded a $1,000 of Pennsylvania to do the same. The players were scholarship for her musical theatre performance; joined by PHS West administrators, Coach Jamie • Pennsbury’s tech challenge teams tied for 3rd Parell, and family members, along with reporter place overall; Mary Jane Souder of SuburbanOneSports.com at the signing. Congratulations! • Colin Poulton, Rahil Dixit, Megan Franco, and Jarad Yu took first place for fastest cable coiling; • Nicolas Fallacaro was named to the 2019 State EDUCATORS’ CONFERENCE TO FEATURE Thespian Board. MANY PENNSBURY MUSICIANS

Mary Kay Everett is Pennsbury’s Thespian Troupe Pennsbury will be very well represented at the Director and Matthew South is the Assistant Drama Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Director. Congratulations to all! District 11 conference, reports Frank Mazzeo, Instrumenal Music Curriculum Coordinator and BCTHS STUDENTS RECOGNIZED Bands Director. “District 11 is made up of all of the schools in Montgomery and Bucks Counties,” Please join in congratulating Pennsbury students, said Mr. Mazzeo. “We had 29 students successfully Mark Schlegel and Jesse Spiker, who were recently audition. 27 students out of 44 who auditioned named Student of the Month by the teachers and for band made it. An average-sized band is about administrators at Bucks County Technical High 70 players and Pennsbury will have 28 students School. participating in District Band!” Congratulations to these students: STUDENTS ANNOUNCE PLANS TO Ashley Parry - Band and Orchestra PLAY SPORTS IN COLLEGE Jason Steiner - Orchestra Sonya Benegal - Band Last month, two Pennsbury senior athletes signed Avishan Bewtra - Band First Chair National Letters of Intent to play field hockey at the Daivik Bewtra - Band collegiate level. Samantha Hackman announced Nicolas Bove - Band that she will play at LaSalle University in the fall of John Brunozzi - Band and Orchestra 2019 and Maya Geller signed with the University Jonathan Bywater - Band and Orchestra Anthony Caruso - Band and Orchestra Cooper Corrigan - Band and Orchestra Duncan Costello - Band and Orchestra Priya Deliwala - Band and Orchestra Grace Gerhauser - Band First Chair Gregory Glatzer - Band and Orchestra Jade Gu - Band Christina Holstrom - Band Rohin Kalra - Band Mikayla Kim - Band and Orchestra Ryan Livingston - Band Vincent Mariani - Band PHS Field Hockey coach, Jamie Parell (center) joined Robbie Oleynick - Band Samantha Hackman (left) and Maya Geller at the athletes’ Amanda Rearden - Band and Orchestra recent signing ceremony. Jacob Shin - Band

14 DECEMBER 2018 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

Jordan Spivack - Band and Orchestra First Chair Lance Steiner - Band Quinn Terry - Band Rob Walton - Band and Orchestra Josh Yamamoto - Band Billy VanVeen - Band

AIR FORCE JUNIOR ROTC STUDENTS INDUCTED IN SPECIAL CEREMONY

The second annual Pennsbury Air Force Junior ROTC Cadet Induction and Awards Ceremony Upcoming MEETINGS took place on November 14th at PHS East. Thirty four newly-uniformed cadets took part as their Board Facilities Committee proud family members, School Directors, teachers, 5:00 p.m., January 3, 2019 and administrators observed and shared their Superintendent’s Conference Room admiration. Board Education Committee The AFJROTC program is in its second year at 7:30 p.m., January 3, 2019 Pennsbury High School. The cadets are led by two teachers: Major (Ret.) James MacEachern, the Superintendent’s Conference Room Senior Aerospace Science Instructor, and Technical Sergeant (Ret.) Chauncey L. Ivey, the Aerospace Board Policy Committee Science Instructor. The elective emphasizes the Air 5:00 p.m., January 10, 2019 Force heritage and traditions, community service, Superintendent’s Conference Room the development of flight, applied flight sciences, military aerospace policies, and space exploration. Board Finance Committee Students also obtain leadership education and 7:00 p.m., January 10, 2019 physical training. Superintendent’s Conference Room

The mission of the AFJROTC is to “develop Board Partnerships/Marketing Committee citizens of character dedicated to serving the 5:00 p.m., January 17, 2019 nation and community.” Following induction, students are immersed in both the academic and Superintendent’s Conference Room leadership aspects of the program. Student leaders guide their peers in many outside, community Action Board Meeting –minded activities throughout the course of the 7:30 p.m., January 17, 2019 year. “Students can test their boundaries in a safe Fallsington Elementary School environment where failure is just a minor incident leading to success,” said Major MacEachern in describing the aspect of personal growth through leadership and community service. “Schools as large as PHS need great activities for kids. Not every student wants to be in sports or in the band; so AFJROTC is a viable alternative to those things.”

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • DECEMBER 2018 15 PENNSBURY HIGH SCHOOL • ALL LEAGUE TEAMS • FALL 2018

SPORT 1st TEAM 2nd TEAM 3rd TEAM HONORABLE MENTION CROSS-COUNTRY, Eric Barr Andrew Keen BOYS Stephan Sroka Amauris Ortiz-Hernandez CROSS-COUNTRY, Abigail Hludzinski Madison Webber Julia Flax GIRLS Riley Hall Tatum Lynch Avery Gardner FIELD HOCKEY Maya Geller Samantha Hackman Jamie Hude Keira Korzeb Anna Sharp Casey Glynn FOOTBALL Brian Malinowski (OL) Ed E. Dualu (RB) Drew Hensor (QB) Brad Mickles (RB) James Hose (DB) Sheehan Miles (WR) J.K. Shellenberger (OL) Joshua Boyda (WR) Trevor Williams (DL) Nicholas Lawrence (DE) Kyle Anderson (OL) John B. Burgfechtel (K) Samuel Burke (LB) GOLF Jade Gu Julie Cohen Arielle Schultz Patrick Laushell Jackson Gerrity Ethan Finkelstein Christopher Myers Griffin Foll Joshua Cicco William Gerrity Ryan Reardon Christopher Dul SOCCER, BOYS Randall Dickersbach Nyles Cayemitte Joseph Ficarotta Trevor Hart Joshua Panaro Matthew Tennant Peter Beidler SOCCER, GIRLS Christine Cataldo-Smith Taylor Muller Ella Palmieri Kendall Palatine Rosemary Bostian Alyssa O’Driscoll Gabriella Zalot Evelyn Ciaccia

TENNIS, GIRLS Doubles: Doubles: Doubles: Emelie Bortnichak & Naiya Timmel & Simar Kaur & Kyra Workman Alexandra Rishel Angelina Passarelli

singles: Megan Walsh Chelsea Riechelson VOLLEYBALL, Elley Torres Brooke Burns GIRLS Isabella Marinelli Abigail Drewes