FALL 2016

To enable all students to succeed in a changing world. BOYERTOWN AREA Celebrating The Bears Are Back! Our District Before the doors of the schools officially opened Monday, It seems like just August 29, students and teachers were back on various last week that we campuses of the Boyertown Area School District preparing waved good-bye to for the 2016–2017 academic year. students and pre- pared ourselves for Over at the high school, dedicated athletes and musicians a summer of profes- spent their days on the fields preparing for the upcoming sional development, seasons. From football, field hockey, and soccer players learning summer cleaning, new plays to band members working to hit all the right notes, and curriculum work. Boyertown Area Senior High students have been busy for weeks. In addition to these At the seven elementary schools, students and annual summertime their parents and guardians were given a sneak peek of their activities, contrac- new schools during kindergarten orientation. Parents tors continued to and guardians got an overview of the school, while their move the Boyertown kindergartners acclimated and got comfortable with their Area Senior High Richard Faidley, Ed.D. teachers, classrooms, and peers. The students worked on fun construction project Superintendent activities, read stories, and took a ride on the school bus in forward, while preparation for their first day of school. contractors worked on GESA (Guaranteed Energy Saving Act) Meanwhile, throughout the District, teachers were busy getting projects at other buildings in the District. their classrooms ready for that all-important first impression— and the start of another successful year. Yes, it was a busy summer in the Boyertown Area School District. As September drew closer, the sounds of marching band and color guard rehearsal and fall sports practices filled the air at Boyertown Area Senior High. Our students prepared for their upcoming competitions and we were reminded that the first day of school was not too far away. As I do every year, I rode a school bus on the first day of school with students. This year I boarded a bus with students headed to Junior High West and Boyertown Area Senior High. Although not demonstrating their excitement about the first day of school as explicitly as the elementary-aged students on other busses, there were smiles as they climbed on the bus for the first time this year. I am proud to report that as we welcomed approximately 7,000 students, their teachers, and staff to the 2016-2017 academic year the Boyertown Area Senior High construction project, the cornerstone building of our district is on-budget and on-schedule. I am also happy to report that Phase II of the construction project was completed and ready for students on the first day of school. Phase II included transforming the 1920 high school building into the 9th Grade Academy; renovating the band, choral, orchestra, and music practice classrooms and the instrument storage rooms; renovating the locker and rooms; renovating the Bear Gym Lobby; and miscellaneous classroom renovations. On page 7 of this newsletter is an in-depth article on the District’s construction projects, complete with photos from the Boyertown Area Senior High construction project. There are also articles on a few of the summer activities that took place, and news from the Foundation for Boyertown Education I wish you and your family a successful 2016-2017 school year, and I look forward to seeing you at any number of the wonderful school and community events throughout the year.

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE Postal Patron PAID Permit #10030 BOYERTOWN, PA DISTRICT DIRECTORY Boyertown Area School District Alumna Spotlight: 911 Montgomery Avenue, Boyertown, PA 19512 610-367-6031 | 610-369-7620 (fax) www.boyertownasd.org Board of School Directors Jill A. Dennin, President Stephen Elsier, Vice-President Clay D. Breece Robert J. Caso John C. Landino David P. Lewis Christine M. Neiman Paul D. Stengle Donna L. Usavage

District Office Administration Dr. Richard H. Faidley, Superintendent Robert L. Scoboria, Assistant Superintendent David A. Szablowski, Chief Financial Officer Dr. Melissa L. Woodard, Chief Academic Officer Dr. Greg M. Miller, Chief Student Achievement Officer Stephen Katch, Chief Human Resources Officer

Boyertown Area Senior High School 120 North Monroe Street, Boyertown, PA 19512 610-369-7435 Dr. Brett A. Cooper, Principal Dr. E. Wayne Foley, Assistant Principal Andrew T. Maoury, Assistant Principal Kelly B. Mason, Assistant Principal

Junior High School, East Center 2020 Big Road, Gilbertsville, PA 19525 Ms. Amanda Peterson on set of ABC27. 610-754-9550 ​ Andrew C. Ruppert, Principal Stephanie A. Petri, Assistant Principal Emmy-nominated, Associated Press Award– to show up—and Ms. Peterson’s lessons from Junior High School, West Center winning reporter Ms. Amanda Peterson, class Coach Wheeler paid off. With no replacements 380 South Madison Street, Boyertown, PA 19512 of 2009, looks back fondly on her years as a available, the crew turned to Ms. Peterson and 610-369-7471 Boyertown Bear. asked her to fill in. Confident in her football Gregory S. Galtere, Principal knowledge, she eagerly accepted. On that “I am very proud to be a Boyertown Area Christopher Rada, Assistant Principal very ordinary day, something extraordinary School District alumna,” Ms. Peterson stated. happened—Ms. Peterson found her calling. Boyertown Elementary School “As I reflect on where I am now in my career, 641 East Second Street, Boyertown, PA 19512 I am very thankful to have graduated from Soon after the memorable football game, 610-369-7462 ​ Boyertown.” Ms. Peterson declared a double major in Craig R. Kehl, Principal electronic media (broadcast) and public relations As a high school student, Ms. Peterson was as well as a double minor in exercise science Colebrookdale Elementary School known for her school spirit. Whether she was and coaching. She worked as a reporter, 1001 Montgomery Avenue, Boyertown, PA 19512 at a club meeting or a sporting event, she took producer, anchor, and production assistant for 610-369-7427 ​ pride in being an active student. SUTV and finished college early, graduating in Michael R. Stoudt, Principal three and a half years. From her sophomore to senior years, Ms. Earl Elementary School Peterson was a member of the Yearbook Club. A few weeks after graduation, Ms. Peterson 22 Schoolhouse Road, Boyertown, PA 19512 While busy meeting deadlines, editing photos, was hired part-time at ABC27, doing behind- 610-369-7504 ​ and designing pages, Ms. Peterson learned the-scenes camera work. Five months later, she Dr. Sara Obarow, Principal valuable lessons that she still utilizes today. was hired full-time as the station’s social media and web manager; in this role, she did a little Ms. Peterson was also a varsity cheerleader. Gilbertsville Elementary School bit of everything, from filling in as a reporter to From pep rallies to football games, she credits 36 Congo Road, Gilbertsville, PA 19525 producing shows. Ms. Peterson gained crucial her time on the cheer squad with creating 610-369-7485​ experience on how a professional news station some of her most treasured memories. She Stephanie L. Landis, Principal works. After two years, her hard work had paid still regards leading students in a school-wide off and she was hired as a traffic anchor on New Hanover-Upper Frederick Elementary School cheer, working with her teammates to perfect a ABC27 Daybreak. 2547 Big Road, Frederick, PA 19435 routine, and performing under the Friday night 610-754-9580 ​ lights as highlights of her high school career. Today, Ms. Peterson is rounding out her second Brian J. Rohn, Principal year as ABC27’s traffic anchor. During the fall, “Being a journalist is very similar to being an she is also a correspondent on ABC27’s Friday Pine Forge Elementary School athlete. In order to be successful, you must be Night Football program. She thrives on the 8 Glendale Road, Boyertown, PA 19512 dedicated and work well with your team,” says fast-paced newsroom environment. One of her 610-323-7609​ Ms. Peterson. “I was fortunate to have amazing favorite aspects is being involved with the local Stephan Pron, Principal teachers, coaches, and teammates in the community. Ms. Peterson believes that everyone Boyertown Area School District.” Washington Elementary School has a story to tell; one of her favorites features 1406 Route 100, Barto, PA 19504 One of those coaches was Mrs. Diane Wheeler, a young athlete who used his soccer talents to 610-754-9589 Boyertown Area Senior High’s varsity help children around the world. Christopher J. Iacobelli, Principal cheerleading coach. Ms. Peterson recognizes In her free time, Ms. Peterson enjoys working Mrs. Wheeler as a dedicated role model who out and spending time with her two rescue taught her more than just cheers. Wheeler pit bulls, Aubree and Henry. She also is one stressed the importance of game knowledge, of Cumberland Valley High School’s varsity which helped Ms. Peterson find her career path. cheerleading coaches. Ms. Peterson attended Shippensburg University Early mornings, tight deadlines, and breaking from 2009 to 2012. During her sophomore year, news – all in a day’s work for Boyertown Area she was looking to switch majors and reached School District alumna Ms. Amanda Peterson. out to the communications and journalism department. The school’s student media group, If you know of a Boyertown Area Senior Shippensburg University Television, broadcasts High alumnus or alumna who would be a good all home football games, and Ms. Peterson was candidate for a spotlight article, please email The Boyertown Area School District Newsletter is invited to shadow the sideline reporter. On her [email protected]. published by the Boyertown Area School District. first day, however, the sideline reporter failed For questions or comments regarding this publication, please contact Kristine Parkes at Communications@ Boyertownasd.org.

2 New Assistant Business Manager Brings Diverse Perspective

The Boyertown Area School District would like Mrs. Hackash was with to introduce Stephanie A. Hackash, CPA, as the the until District’s new Assistant Business Manager. 2014, and during that time she also served A graduate of Perkiomen Valley High School, as the team’s executive Mrs. Hackash has fond memories of playing director of business lacrosse against Boyertown Area Senior High. operations and assistant She continued her education at Albright College, general manager. where she earned her bachelor of science in accounting. After she left the Reading Royals she “I have always had a knack for numbers,” became the assistant Mrs. Hackash says. “To me, auditing is like director of finance and putting together pieces of a puzzle to make sure then the director of everything balances.” finance for the Reading School District. Mrs. Upon graduating from Albright College, Mrs. Hackash explains that Hackash worked as an auditor for Herbein she was hired as part + Company, Inc., a public accounting firm, of the Berks County where she performed audits, prepared financial Intermediate Unit team statements, corporate projections, and individual that provided leadership and corporate tax returns. for the Reading School In 2000, Mrs. Hackash was offered the unique District. While at the opportunity to join the Reading Royals hockey Reading School District, she became a member of team as the organization’s controller, a position am happy to be here. Everyone has been so she held for six years. the PA Association of School Business Officials (PASBO), which is how she became aware of the welcoming.” “I started with the Reading Royals a year before Boyertown Area School District’s Mrs. Hackash and her husband, Rob, have the team took the ice,” Mrs. Hackash explains. search for a new assistant business manager. adorable four-year-old twins, Mitchell and “It was exciting to be working with a start-up. “My position with the Boyertown Area School Madelyn, who keep them on their toes. In Among other things, I assisted with creating addition to sharing her love of vegetable policies and procedures.” District gives me a broad view of school district accounting,” Mrs. Hackash commented. “I gardening with her children, Mrs. Hackash says that they are a very sports-oriented family.

Dedicated to Professional Development

The Boyertown Area School District believes that sessions could include collaborating at having a properly trained and motivated staff. professional development—continual learning— the building or grade level or analyzing The Boyertown Area School District is is essential for supporting great teachers and student test data. committed to fostering an environment paraprofessionals. that encourages professional growth and Beyond the Induction Program, teachers are development for all employees, whether they Over the summer break, Boyertown Area School required to also earn 12 administratively are in their first year or their 21st. District teachers spend a majority of their time directed hours of professional development. learning and planning for the upcoming school These curriculum- year. With this article, we will take a closer look based sessions at the District’s New Teacher Academy and the focus on three-year Induction Program. refining their classroom The New Teacher Academy is a weeklong practices and program that introduces newly hired staff to embedding the core values of the Boyertown Area School technology District. Participants explore several important into their daily topics, including educator effectiveness, teaching. technology integration, collaboration, critical thinking, effective communication, and creativity. Providing quality Experienced staff members support the new education that teachers through discussions, activities, and increases the a special mentoring program that allows for achievement of continued support. every student starts with In addition to the New Teacher Academy, Boyertown Area School District implements a three-year Induction Program for each newly hired teacher. The state requires school districts to offer one-year programs, so Boyertown Area School District is unique in offering teachers a three-year Induction Program. During their first year in the program, teachers new to the Boyertown Area School District attend monthly meetings where they learn about the District and how to become an active member of the community. During their second year, elementary-level teachers participate in a writing academy, while secondary-level teachers learn methods for integrating reading and writing into their content area. In their third year, teachers choose a content area they would like to explore in more depth. All teachers are required to attend nine one-hour sessions during the school year. Topics in these

3 New School Year Welcomes New Administrators

The Boyertown Area School District is excited to welcome three new administrators to the District — Mr. Christopher Rada, assistant principal at Junior High West; Mr. Stephan Pron, principal at Pine Forge Elementary School; Dr. Sara Obarow, Earl Elementary School. Mr. Christopher Rada, Junior High West

As assistant principal, Mr. Rada will assist Junior High West Principal, Mr. Greg Galtere, with overall building leadership and management, which includes faculty and staff supervision, overseeing student discipline and attendance, assisting with the overall safety and security of the building, assisting with the coordination of special activities throughout the year, and assist with faculty and staff professional development sessions throughout the year.

“Mr. Rada will be a great addition to Junior High Please welcome Mr. Stephen Pron, Dr. Sara Obarow, and Mr. Christopher Rada. West,” Mr. Galtere commented. “He is very student- centered and has proven himself a hard worker in previous positions. I am looking forward to working with him.” Dr. Sara Obarow, Earl Elementary School Mr. Rada began his career as Spanish teacher at the Wyomissing Area Junior/Senior High School. In addition to teaching students in seventh For Dr. Sara Obarow, becoming the principal of Earl Elementary School is through twelfth grades for 14 years, Mr. Rada coached the girls’ varsity a true homecoming. A Boyertown Area Senior High alumna, Dr. Obarow soccer team for 12 years and the boys’ varsity soccer team for 3 years. attended Boyertown schools from kindergarten through graduation. Mr. Rada then served as the assistant principal at Elco Middle School for After graduation, she continued her education at Millersville University, two years and as principal of Elco Intermediate School (grades three to five) where she earned her bachelor of science in elementary education and early for two years. childhood education. Upon graduating, she taught for four years in the Governor Mifflin School District before returning to the Boyertown Area In his first year as assistant principal at Junior High West, Mr. Rada’s goals School District. are to establish positive relationships with the school community – students, parents, teachers, and staff – and to learn as much as possible about the school Dr. Obarow taught kindergarten, first, and sixth grades at Colebrookdale and the District. Elementary School. She was also a reading specialist/instructional coach and elementary lead teacher. These positions gave her the opportunity to “Ultimately, I am here to help all students realize their full potential,” work with many teachers, as her main focus was professional learning and Mr. Rada comments. curriculum development. In all, Dr. Obarow was a teacher in the Boyertown Mr. Rada and his wife, Lindsay, have three boys – Ben, Robbie, and Tyler. Area School District for 19 years. Lindsay teaches English and language arts in the Wyomissing Area School During her time with the Boyertown Area School District, she earned District. In his free time, Mr. Rada coaches Ben’s and Robbie’s soccer teams. her master’s degree in reading with a reading specialist certification from The family enjoys watching professional sports, especially soccer, and roots Kutztown University in 1998. In 2004, Dr. Obarow earned her Ed.D. in for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penn State. reading and language arts, and in 2014, she earned her supervisory certificate Follow Mr. Rada on Twitter @crada_JHWEST. in curriculum instruction and principal certificate from Temple University. In her first year as principal at Earl Elementary School, Dr. Obarow’s primary Mr. Stephan Pron, focus is to build relationships with parents, students, and teachers. Pine Forge Elementary School “Earl Elementary School has a great reputation,” Dr. Obarow commented. “I am excited to be a part of the school’s community. I want to work As students at Pine Forge Elementary School arrived for their first day collaboratively with parents and teachers to collectively decide how we grow, of the new school year, they were greeted by the school’s new principal, always keeping in mind that the students come first.” Mr. Stephan Pron. Dr. Obarow, her husband, and their four children live in the District. In her A graduate of West Chester University, where he earned his bachelor of free time, she enjoys cooking, shopping with her daughters, and reading. Her science in elementary education, Mr. Pron taught first grade for five years favorite children’s book is The Little Engine That Could. and fifth grade for two years in the Downingtown Area School District. After his time in the classroom, Mr. Pron became an instructional coach. In this position, he supported kindergarten through sixth grade teachers in five buildings as they worked to integrate instructional strategies and technology into their classrooms. Mr. Pron has a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction, with a focus on instructional leadership, from Penn State. His goal for his first year at Pine Forge Elementary School is to collaborate with parents, teachers, and the community to continue to foster a positive learning environment for the students so that their individual needs can be met. Mr. Pron and his wife, Rosemary, have a beautiful 15-month-old daughter, Find news, announcements Lily, and a white shepherd/Lab mix named Maya. Mr. Pron and his wife love sports and play on a coed soccer team. He is a big sports fan and enjoys and event information rooting for the Philadelphia Union and the Eagles. He and his wife are also active in their church. Mr. Pron plays the guitar, and is looking forward to on Facebook. Like us by finding opportunities to play for the school. searching Boyertown Area And, he is always willing to tell the tale of his traveling desk chair. School District or clicking Just stop by his office and ask. the Facebook icon on the You can follow Mr. Pron on Twitter at @PineForgeElem. District’s website.

4 Students Get Serious about Their Health

This summer, Boyertown Area School District and discussions on health topics such as nutrition, Boyertown Area Senior High School wellness offered its annual Students Training, Eating, safety, substance abuse, and bullying. and fitness lead teacher Mrs. Lucie Bergeyova, and Living Totally Healthy (STEALTH) Club Boyertown Area Senior High School wellness Summer Workshop, a free program for students “It is amazing to see how dedicated students and fitness teachers Ms. Nicole Fusco and Ms. in third through seventh grades interested in from the District are about living healthy,” Erica Johnson, and Washington Elementary learning how to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. explains Pine Forge Elementary School wellness School wellness and fitness teacher Mr. Vincent and fitness teacher Mr. Michael Miltenberger. Kemmerer, the third annual STEALTH The STEALTH Club Summer Workshop “During the sessions, we have parents tell us that Club Summer Workshop was a success. It speaks for itself. Over 100 students joined they have begun reading labels before buying confirmed the Boyertown Area School District’s teachers from across the District for one of the products at the grocery store and that they now commitment to promoting health and wellness in three weeklong sessions offered. During each have healthy-living discussions with their whole our community. session, students participated in activities that family. That is what this is all about! Helping our encouraged teamwork and developed leadership students live healthy and active lifestyles.” skills while improving their agility, coordination, and endurance. They learned how to create and Mr. Miltenberger has been the workshop maintain healthy habits through demonstrations organizer for three years. With the help of

Class of 1966 Prepares for 50th Class Reunion

The year was 1966—a year many claim defined will take place at the Carriage House on Route “One of my favorite memories was participating the decade. The average income per year was 29 and will feature navy and blue decorations as in the ‘Class Will and Testament,’” said Ms. Rose $6,900, the average cost of a new house was well as yellow roses, staying consistent with the Steffy. “At the end of the year, every senior would $14,200, and a new car could be purchased for class colors and flower. Guests will enjoy a happy ‘will’ something to an underclassman. Each band $2,650. Frank Sinatra and The Sound of Music hour, dinner, and socializing. Upon entering the member was sure to put a comedic spin on theirs. were the stars of the Grammy and Academy venue, attendees will be given special ID badges Boy, did we have fun!” Awards, and shows like Star Trek and Batman featuring a classmate’s senior yearbook photo. made their national debuts. Soldiers were busy As a conversation starter, they will be invited to High school sweethearts Mr. and Mrs. Yoder fighting in the Vietnam War, while eight-track find the classmate whose photo appears on the are excited to spend the evening with classmates players were introduced to the automobile badge. Special activities will include a slideshow once again. “We always have such a great time industry. It was also not uncommon to find the presentation in memory of classmates who have together,” Mrs. Yoder said. “The class of 1966 Boyertown marching band and football team passed. Throughout the night, musical hits from never fails to make memories together.” strolling down North Reading Avenue after a the sixties will play as guests mix and mingle, This year the classmates participated in big win. reliving treasured memories. Boyertown’s Sesquicentennial Celebration Parade. For those who graduated from Boyertown Area Helping to organize this year’s reunion are Together they designed and decorated a float Senior High School in 1966, it might seem like Boyertown alumni Ms. Linda Rose Steffy, representing their class. yesterday rather than 50 years ago. With such Mrs. Cathy Yoder, Mr. Denny Yoder, and The Boyertown Area Senior High School Class a special milestone on the horizon, the class Mr. George Kulp. All four enjoyed their time of 1966 has held reunions every five years since will celebrate with a 50th class reunion on as Boyertown Bears. their graduation. Each reunion is organized by September 17. Ms. Steffy, who taught at Gilbertsville dedicated volunteers, who begin meeting two The class of 1966 is expecting around 110 Elementary School for 30 years, reminisced about years before the event. The Boyertown Area members to attend this year’s event. The reunion her time as a twirler in the marching band. School District is proud to support our alumni.

Putting the “Unity” Back into “Community”

Just as learning doesn’t end when school lets Some of the highlights out, neither does the need for good nutrition. of the summer included This summer, recognizing that students’ needs visits from officers of were increasing, Boyertown Area School District the Boyertown Police partnered with St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Department, who planned Church to provide an opportunity to give all special activities for the students access to free nutritious lunches as part students. Patrol Officer of the District’s new Summer Lunch Program. Corporal Brian Myers visited to educate students The Summer Lunch Program provided free about bicycle safety. nutritional lunches to all school-aged students The K9 Unit also paid a Mondays through Fridays at St. John’s, which visit, introducing students is located at 45 North Reading Avenue in to the K9 companions Boyertown. All lunches were prepared by the that help keep the District’s food-services staff. Students enrolled in community safe. the Summer Intervention Program were provided with coordinated transportation to and from the “The Boyertown Police Summer Lunch Program and were given the Department is proud to Students are all smiles at the District’s Summer Lunch Program. opportunity to participate in a fun activity before support a community heading home. program like the Summer “We strongly believe that good nutrition is a key Lunch Program,” Officer Myers stated. “We take factor in our students’ educational development.” The program ran smoothly, thanks to the advantage of any opportunity to interact with dedication of two Boyertown Area School students in the District so that we can build The Summer Lunch Program was a huge success. District alumnae: Lauren Frey, class of 2015, relationships with youth in the community.” The community joined together to create a and Molly Kulp, class of 2014. Molly and program to meet the needs of the students. Lauren were interns who assisted co-chair and “We were glad to provide this needed service Boyertown Area School District is proud to church council member Mr. Charles Haddad in for our students in collaboration with a great support the community and our students through coordinating the program as well as in planning community partner, St. John’s Church,” says the Summer Lunch Program. activities for the students. Assistant Superintendent Mr. Robert Scoboria.

5 BASD Summer Camp 2016 Provided Something for Everyone

A tradition for more than 150 years, summer Seventh grade Junior High West student Blaise grade who attended Camp Sew Easy camp is a classic that stands the test of time—an Miller agreed with Kyler, “Working with the Lego and Fun. activity to which multiple generations can relate. Mind Storm Kits was awesome. I also enjoyed Camp teaches children of all ages important life building the VexRobots and making things with “I was truly excited to work with students who lessons focused on social skills, problem solving, the 3D printer.” are ambitious to learn new skills,” explained Mrs. and independence. This summer, Boyertown Area Elizabeth Wagner, art teacher at both Pine Forge School District offered children in the community “Dr. Constructo’s Robotics and More Camp and Boyertown elementary schools. “I began several enrichment and academic opportunities at allows students to explore the fields of teaching very basic sewing skills to students in Camp Boyertown. engineering at an early age,” explained Mr. first grade art class, and the students loved it. It Stallman. “As a District, we are fortunate to not only built their confidence, but also began From Art Boot Camp to Silly, Wacky, Not Your be able to expose our students directly to what teaching them practical skills of a lost art. Two Normal Game/Sport Camp, Camp Boyertown technology and engineering are, in hopes of of those first grade students are now fifth grade offered 14 different programs. Each camp sparking their interests for future careers.” students attending Camp Sew Easy and Fun. provided unique opportunities for students They love being able to say, ‘I made this with hard to explore new interests while making friends Another program Camp Boyertown offered work and dedication!’ That is what camp is all and memories. was Camp Sew Easy and Fun, a weeklong day about: enabling our students to believe they can camp that introduced students to basic sewing do anything!” Camp Lacrosse Skills, Drills, and Thrills was a skills. Over the course of the week, students hugely successful offering this year. Boyertown learned how to sew Junior High West physical education teachers softsculptures and how Mrs. Kathleen Gregory and Mr. Mark Schwegler to design and construct hosted this weeklong day camp that introduced handbags. students in grades three through eight to the sport of lacrosse. In addition to mastering lacrosse Gilbertsville skills and concepts through games and activities, Elementary School students learned how to problem-solve as a team fifth grade student to accomplish challenges and reach their goals. Katelyn O’Connor enjoyed every moment For the sixth year in a row, Camp Boyertown of Camp Sew Easy offered Dr. Constructo’s Robotics and More and Fun. “My favorite Camp, a weeklong day camp that educates part of camp was being students on engineering, robotics, CNC able to sit and talk manufacturing, and other related technologies. with my new friends Led by Boyertown Junior High West’s technology while making great and engineering teacher, Mr. Ed Stallman, projects,” she said. “It students in grades four through eight had the was so fun.” Katelyn opportunity to dive into the technical world of was one of 10 students robotics. Over the course of the week, students in fourth through sixth constructed, programed, and manipulated VexRobots; created dog tags with a 3D printer; and conquered Lego Mind Storm Kit challenges. Fourth grade New Hanover Elementary School student Kyler Hohenstein explained that his favorite part of camp was working with the Lego Mind Storm Kits. “They were really fun and challenging!”

Students at Camp Sew Easy and Fun.

Students at Camp Lacrosse Skills, Drills, and Thrills.

6 Construction Projects Across the District

The Boyertown Area School District is proud to report that, as we welcomed approximately 7,000 students, their teachers, and staff to the 2016–17 academic year, the construction project transforming the cornerstone building of our District, Boyertown Area Senior High, is on budget and open on schedule. Most exciting is that Phase II of the construction project was ready for students on the first day of school. Phase II included transforming the 1920s- era high school building; renovating the band, choral, orchestra, and music practice classrooms and instrument storage rooms; renovating the locker and wrestling rooms; renovating the Bear Gym lobby; and miscellaneous classroom renovations. When Boyertown Area High School welcomes students to the high school for the 2017–18 academic year, the 1920s-era high school building will become known as the Ninth Grade Academy. For this school year, it is being referred to as the Annex. Some of the highlights of the completely renovated Annex include: • The auditorium has been completely overhauled, The auditorium has been completely overhauled, with all-new seating (including an with all-new seating (including an ADA- ADA-compliant seating area), new stage curtains, new drapes on the windows, fresh compliant seating area), new stage curtains, paint, new mechanicals, and a sprinkler system to comply with fire code regulations. new drapes on the windows, fresh paint, new mechanicals, and a sprinkler system to comply with fire code regulations. • The gymnasium has been converted to biology classrooms and small group instruction rooms. A wonderful feature of these new rooms is that the original gymnasium floor was used saving money and maintaining the building’s character. • The large group instruction room has been converted into biology classrooms. The original large windows have been maintained, letting in beautiful amounts of natural light. • In all of the classrooms, the molding that bordered the chalkboards was carefully removed and refinished, and is now being used as borders for the whiteboards. “We are pleased to have been able to preserve many of the architectural features of the 1920 high school building,” comments Dr. Brett Cooper, Principal of Boyertown Area Senior High. “Doing this allows us to remember our roots while looking to the future.” Another exciting renovation project occurred at New Hanover-Upper Frederick and Gilbertsville The large group instruction room has been converted into biology classrooms. Elementary Schools, where air conditioning was The original large windows have been maintained, letting in beautiful amounts of installed for the beginning of the school year, natural light. along with other energy-efficient upgrades, such as HVAC systems and lighting in many buildings. This was made possible through the Commonwealth’s Guaranteed Energy Savings Act. In addition, the District is working to install air conditioning in all of the schools’ large group rooms by late summer or early fall. The long-term plan is to add air conditioning to all classrooms over the course of the next few years. At Junior High West, the design/development stage has been completed, and the District will be seeking input from the various groups who will use the building. A (very) rough timeline for this renovation project has the bid going out in the late fall, with groundbreaking currently estimated to take place in Spring 2017. Fifteen months of construction would have the renovated building opening to students in August 2018. With school in session, construction and construction-related activities have not slowed down. With much work yet to be done, the District would like to thank teachers and students publicly, especially those at Boyertown Area High School, for being patient and flexible. The support, technology, and custodial staff also deserve a special thank you New desks empower student choice, increase student engagement, and improve for all of their hard work. student participation. Please check the District’s website and Facebook page for construction updates.

7 BASH Senior Competes on Chopped!

Dedicated student and aspiring chef Brittany “There are so many aspects of cooking that Matteson recently competed for the title of Teen I love. As a chef you get to experiment with Champion on Food Network’s hit show Chopped. different ingredients. It’s art on a plate,” explained Brittany. “One of the best feelings Chopped is a competitive cooking show that in the world is watching someone enjoy the challenges four chefs to face off against one plate you present to them. That’s why Chopped another as they prepare a spectacular three-course seemed like the perfect show for me!” meal consisting of an appetizer, entrée, and dessert. The catch? In each round, contestants A longtime fan of the show, Brittany decided have to use all the ingredients the show provides it was time to take a chance. With the support them, however unlikely they might be (Gummi of her family and teachers, she applied to be a Bears, anyone?). At the end of each course, a contestant. In order to be considered, she had panel of three guest judges “chops” one chef who to apply online and prove her cooking prowess fails to measure up in terms of taste, presentation, with a Skype interview. With her hopes high, and creativity. The last chef standing takes home Brittany waited for a call back. bragging rights and the coveted prize money; however, all four contestants take home a wealth Brittany describes the moment she received the of experience. Even the most practiced chef can call back as surreal. “The entire experience was get shaken when it comes to the added pressure like a dream, but the call back started it all!” and time constraints of the competition. From there, Brittany and her family traveled to begin filming in New York City. Now a senior in high school, Brittany is studying culinary arts at the Berks Career and Upon arrival, Brittany received her apron and Technology Center (BCTC). BCTC’s Culinary was introduced to her three-person camera Arts program is accredited by the American crew and personal producer. It was “the royal Culinary Federation and prepares students for the treatment,” she says. hospitality industry, one of the largest industries The next day, the competition began. Brittany Senior Brittany Matteson in the in America. Practical experience is a major part admits to being nervous, but her nerves were Chopped kitchen. of the program; students gain experience by quickly calmed by doing what she does best— operating and managing a complete restaurant cooking. “The competition was crazy and and catering service housed within each campus surreal, but I would go back in a heartbeat,” location. Specialized learning units include “Brittany is a great student,” says Boyertown Area she says. “I have made lifelong friends and theory and work experience in the major areas Senior High School principal Dr. Brett Cooper. learned so much.” of cooking and baking. Experience is also “She is focused and has a plan developed for her gained in front-of-house skills (including As Brittany’s high school career comes to an end, future. Her determination is impressive. Brittany waiting on tables and cashiering), care and she is busy preparing for her future. She plans is setting herself up for success, and we are proud use of kitchen equipment, nutrition, food to attend college and majoring in culinary arts to call her a Boyertown Bear.” purchasing, and sanitation in commercial and while taking business and accounting classes For more information on Brittany’s episode of institutional food handling. on the side. Her dream is to own and operate a Chopped, visit www.foodnetwork.com. successful restaurant, and maybe one day compete Brittany has been cooking since the age of on another cooking show. four and credits her mother, stepfather, and grandmother for encouraging her to follow her passion in the kitchen.

Athletic Highlights

BASH Girls Soccer Program Earns 200th Victory

Boyertown Area Senior High girls soccer team, the reigning Pioneer Athletic Conference Champions, recently earned the program’s 200th career victory after defeating Methacton High School 3-1. Boyertown’s Lauren Haley and Katelyn Gallagher each found the back of the net, dominating the game with skill and precision.

BASH Girls Set for Success

Boyertown Area Senior High girls golf team has been busy preparing for another competitive season. “This season we are returning all of our key players, and their off-season work should result in improved individual and team scores. We are looking forward to being more competitive in the league this year.”

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