District Highlights Report School, Classroom, and Curricular Enhancements As a Pennsbury Principal, Are Approved by the PEF Board on a Semi-Annual Mr

Superintendent PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • OCTOBER 2019

Affairs for WMPA, and Bob Jones, Senior District Across the DISTRICT Manager. “Waste Management and Pennsbury School INSPIRING STORIES OF PENNSBURY District share a mutually beneficial business and STUDENTS AND STAFF NOW ON TWITTER education partnership,” said Mr. Jones. “For more than 25 years, Waste Management has “Transformative events been supporting Pennsbury’s educational and in the Pennsbury School environmental programs as well as awarding District: overcoming scholarships to graduating seniors. We are pleased challenges, trying something that Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement new, extraordinary accomplishments, and meaningful Tax Credit Program helps enhance that contributions!” This is the descriptive language partnership. We believe it is our job to live up to posted on the newly-launched Pennsbury Twitter the highest standards of corporate and individual account, @PSD_CoffeeBean, which is filled daily responsibility. The Educational Improvement Tax with posts submitted by Pennsbury building Credit Program in Pennsylvania is surely a win and department administrators. Why the name? because it benefits students who will become our The Twitter account was unveiled at the faculty future community leaders.” convocation ceremony held in late August as teachers and other professional staff met as a group with The donated funds will be put to use by Pennsbury Superintendent Dr. William Gretzula, who tied in the teachers whose grant applications for innovative book, The Coffee Bean: A Simple Lesson to Create Positive Change, by Jon Gordon and Damon West. This is the first District-wide social media account established to showcase the abundance of great things occurring in all of our schools. Be sure to follow and re-Tweet!

WASTE MANAGEMENT DONATES $15,000 TO EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The Pennsbury Education Foundation (PEF) recently accepted a donation totaling $15,000 from Waste Management PA (WMPA), a Pennsbury Partner. The donation was made through the From left: Pennsbury Financial Services Director, Kimberly Zedalis; Superintendent Dr. William Gretzula (accepting on behalf of the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit PEF Board of Directors); Judy Archibald, Public Affairs Director for Program and was presented to the PEF Board of WMPA; Bob Jones, Senior District Manager, WMPA; and Christopher Directors by Judy Archibald, Director of Public Berdnik, Pennsbury Chief Financial Officer and PEF Treasurer.

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • OCTOBER 2019 1 District Highlights Report school, classroom, and curricular enhancements As a Pennsbury Principal, are approved by the PEF Board on a semi-annual Mr. DePaola reports to basis. “We appreciate the clear generosity of Waste Superintendent Dr. William Management,” said PEF Board President, Annette Gretzula and the Director Young. “These donated funds will go a long way of Elementary Education, in supporting new initiatives and technologies that Michele Spack, for the general improve upon the teaching and learning occurring in administration of Fallsington the Pennsbury schools.” Elementary. His duties include staff evaluation, supervision The PA Department of Community and Economic and development, evaluation Vincent DePaola, Jr. Development’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit and administration of the Program awards tax credits to businesses making instructional and educational programs, scheduling, contributions to the PEF. For more information, call organization of student activities, student discipline, Pennsbury’s Chief Financial Officer, Christopher financial management, facilities management, Berdnik, at 215-428-4115. coordination of transportation, office management, and communication with parents. For the past CHILDREN HELPING CHILDREN IN NEED year, Mr. DePaola served as Assistant Principal of Pennwood Middle School, and prior to that he was – FOOD DRIVE UNDERWAY an Assistant Principal at Pennsbury High School from 2010-2018. Pennsbury elementary schools across the District Rounds of interviews included meetings with are joining forces with 26 stakeholders, including School Directors, the Levittown-Fairless administrators, faculty members, and parents. Hills Rotary, a Pennsbury “The feedback we received about Mr. DePaola’s Partner, to collect strengths was abundant, including his breadth of non-perishable food for experience (K-12) as a paraprofessional, teacher, the Bucks County Emergency Homeless Shelter in and administrator. Additionally, he is viewed as a Levittown. An October food drive titled, Children student-centered leader who will actively seek to Helping Children in Need, will help to replenish partner with staff and families to create a sense of the shelves at the shelter. Thanks go to all of the community and shared responsibility to provide the generous families and Pennsbury faculty and staff best possible learning experience for all students of for supporting this drive. For more information Fallsington Elementary.” on how to give during this collection, contact the Partners office at 215-428-4100, ext. 10025. Prior to joining Pennsbury, Mr. DePaola worked in the North Penn School District, where he was a VINCENT DePAOLA, JR. NAMED middle school learning support teacher and eighth FALLSINGTON ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL grade acting Assistant Principal. Mr. DePaola has a Master’s degree in Education from LaSalle The Pennsbury Board of School Directors University and is certified in Elementary Education, appointed Vincent DePaola, Jr. to be Principal of Special Education K-12, and Middle Level Fallsington Elementary School, effective October Mathematics. He also holds a Principal’s certificate 1st, at the public School Board meeting held on from Cabrini College. He earned his Bachelor’s September 19th. Mr. DePaola replaced outgoing degree in Criminal Justice and Social Work from interim Principal Fay Manicke. DeSales University.

2 OCTOBER 2019 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

Be sure to check out the Fallsington Elementary items communication with students and their families, in the “Across the Schools” section below to learn how the and advancing our social and emotional learning school’s staff and students first greeted Mr. DePaola as curriculum. Ms. McEachern will also work with their new Principal. administrators and school counselors to support them in meeting the needs of all students.” JUSTINE McEACHERN APPOINTED Prior to joining the school counseling department at ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL AT PHS Pennsbury High School in 2014, Ms. McEachern was a counselor for grades 7-12 at the Avon Grove Charter The Pennsbury Board of School from 2010-2014. Ms. McEachern holds a School Directors appointed Master’s degree in Education and School Counseling Justine McEachern to be an certification from Widener University, a Master’s Assistant Principal at Pennsbury degree (October 2019) in Educational Leadership High School at the public from Holy Family University, and a Principal’s meeting held on September certification, also from Holy Family University. She 19th. Ms. McEachern also serves earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication as the Supervisor of School Studies from Bloomsburg University. Counseling for Grades K-12 in this position. For the past year, Justine McEachern Ms. McEachern served in an ADMINISTRATIVE INTERNS SELECTED Administrative Intern capacity handling similar duties at Pennsbury High School, and prior to that During the public School Board meeting held on she was the lead counselor, also at PHS, since 2016. September 19th, the Pennsbury Board of School Directors appointed teachers Maria Gregory, As an Assistant Principal, Ms. McEachern reports Megan Swope, and Ryan Kennedy to serve to PHS Co-Principals Lisa Becker and Reggie as Administrative Interns. Ms. Gregory is on a Meadows. She is responsible for assisting with the temporary assignment as an Administrative Intern general administration of the high school campus. at William Penn Middle School during the current Duties include staff evaluation, supervision, and marking period, with the possibility of an extension. development, the evaluation and administration Ms. Swope and Mr. Kennedy were selected to of the instructional and educational programs, serve as Administrative Interns with a focus on scheduling, office management, organizing of implementing technology to enhance teaching and student activities, student discipline, and other learning at the secondary level in Pennsbury. They responsibilities as assigned. join teachers, Jeanmarie McGinley and Amanda D’Amico, who currently serve as Administrative The interview process involved meeting with a Interns with a focus on technology across the variety of Pennsbury stakeholders. “We are excited elementary level. to be working with Ms. McEachern, who has done an outstanding job supporting students and “Throughout my time in Pennsbury, I have valued families as a counselor for the past five years in the the teacher leadership that is clearly evident in all Pennsbury community,” said Dr. Gretzula. “Ms. of our schools,” said Superintendent Dr. William McEachern presented a compassion for her students Gretzula. “When possible, we try to support the and a comprehensive vision for the entire counseling growth of these educators who desire leadership department. Her goals include fully developing our opportunities. The three candidates approved this program to support high school students’ college evening have provided exemplary service in their and career planning, enhancing internal and external classrooms, engaging and personalized learning

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • OCTOBER 2019 3 District Highlights Report experiences for their students, and a commitment to placing students at the center of all we do.” ADMINISTRATORS PITCH IN AT SHOPRITE TO FIGHT HUNGER Ms. Gregory served previously as an Administrative Intern When Pennsbury Partner of the Year, ShopRite at William Penn in the spring of Yardley, reached out and asked for District of 2019. Since 2013, she has administrators to assist with raising funds for local been the reading specialist food pantries, we responded. Superintendent Dr. at Charles Boehm Middle William Gretzula, Makefield Elementary Principal School. From 1999-2013, she Donna McCormick-Miller, Edgewood Elementary served as a classroom teacher Principal Stephanie Hultquist, Afton Elementary in various grade levels at Afton Principal Dr. Joseph Masgai, and Charles Boehm Elementary. Ms. Gregory holds Maria Gregory Middle School Principal Travis Bloom bagged a K-12 Principal Certificate from groceries for one hour each to assist ShopRite Gwynedd Mercy University, a Master’s degree in customers and encourage donations for the cause. Education with Reading Specialist Certification from Well done, team! Holy Family University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Delaware.

Ms. Swope joined Pennsbury in 1999 as a social studies teacher and became department chair at Pennsbury High School in 2007. She has a Master’s degree in Teaching and Learning from Gratz From left: Superintendent Dr. William Gretzula, Afton Principal College and a Bachelor’s Dr. Joseph Masgai, Edgewood Principal Stephanie Hultquist, degree in Psychology from the Makefield Principal Donna McCormick-Miller, and Charles Boehm Megan Swope University of Rochester. Principal Travis Bloom.

Mr. Kennedy has served previously as an YesYouCan5K RAISES FUNDS FOR Administrative Intern at PARTICIPATING PTO ORGANIZATIONS Pennwood Middle School and Makefield Elementary “The YesYouCan5K built both confidence and School. He joined Pennsbury community,” shared organizer and Makefield in 2014 as an English Language Elementary PTO President, Joanie Layden. “When Arts teacher at the secondary put together, three little words create something level. He has a Master’s degree special: Yes You Can. This powerful message could be Ryan Kennedy in Secondary Education from felt on race day in Pennsbury. With nearly 550 people the University of Scranton registered to run, the October 6th event was full of and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication, also energy, enthusiasm, and the YesYouCan attitude.” from the University of Scranton. Mr. Kennedy holds a Principal Certification from Holy Family Hosted by the Makefield PTO, the YesYouCan5K University. benefitted all participating schools’ PTOs within the School District. Twelve District schools participated.

4 OCTOBER 2019 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

runner said that her goal was to run to Makefield and then walk the rest of the way, but the band was so motivational that she just kept running!”

Over 50 additional volunteers, consisting of Pennsbury staff, parents, grandparents, and National Honor Society members, also contributed to the event. “They helped to keep our runners safe and hydrated. Lastly, the LMT Police and EMT were on site and YesYouCan runners were proud to have them,” said Ms. Layden, adding, “The YesYouCan5K had two goals in mind from the onset The first ever, District-wide YesYouCan5K attracted 542 registrants, of planning, and those goals were accomplished on 211 of whom were under 18. October 6th. The YesYouCan5K built confidence. The YesYouCan5K built community. Next year, In addition, the YesYouCan5K raised money for Pennsbury will once again say, YesYouCan!” Family Promise of Lower Bucks (where families receive 24-hour-a-day support, a safe place to stay, three meals a day, and comprehensive support In the SCHOOLS services, all free of charge).

The event was sponsored by 25 local businesses AFTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL who shared funds, supplies, and talents to make Please join in celebrating Afton Elementary School, the event possible. One sponsor was the Pennsbury named a National Blue Ribbon School on September Education Association. They sponsored the 26th by U.S. Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos. YesYouCan5K Carb-Up Pasta Dinner, which was Afton, one of 362 schools recognized nationwide (1% held on Friday evening in conjunction with the first of all schools) was honored for its progress in closing round of bib pick-ups. The YesYouCan5K committee achievement gaps among student subgroups. checked in 295 runners that evening. “Congratulations to the entire Afton Elementary The event attracted 542 registrants, 211 of whom School community, past and present, for creating were under 18. “Kids bring an energy to an event and sustaining an exemplary model of how public that is unmatched,” said Ms. Layden. “Their schools can meet the diverse needs of all students in a enthusiasm was strong right to the finish. Teachers collaborative and engaging manner,” said Pennsbury were motivated by their students running with them. Superintendent, Dr. William Gretzula. “I am honored Parents challenged their kids and the kids challenged to call the Principal, Dr. Joseph Masgai, a colleague, right back. Neighbors came out to cheer everyone and I continue to be inspired by the staff and students on. Speaking of cheering, the entire Pennsbury High at Afton who have a true love of teaching and School Cheerleading Squad cheered everyone on learning. In Pennsbury, we have long known of the through the first quarter mile and again for the last excellence that is present in all that Afton does on stretch of the run. Parents said they felt ‘famous’ behalf of the children and families they serve. Now, running through the crowd of cheerleaders. The two the state and country know as well.” mile marker was at Makefield Elementary where Irrational Funktion, a Pennsbury alumni band, Principal Masgai stated, “The entire Afton played energetic music to motivate the runners. One community is thrilled with being designated as

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • OCTOBER 2019 5 District Highlights Report

at Afton Elementary School, and, more importantly, have shattered stereotypes to yield outstanding results for all students. An emphasis on these three elements provides an egress to simplify work by always focusing on the essentials of good planning and teaching.” The community of Afton teachers follows a problem-solving cycle that has evolved into transformational practices that not only correlate with the tenets of National Blue Ribbon Schools, but also Afton Elementary students and staff wore blue and gathered to form cultivates a culture that promotes continuous learning, the shape of a ribbon as part of their celebration marking the honor empirical creativity, and innovative practices. of being named a National Blue Ribbon School. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program a National Blue Ribbon School! We are bursting recognizes public and private elementary, middle, with Pennsbury Pride and are honored to and high schools based on their overall academic represent excellence in education in Bucks County. excellence or their progress in closing achievement Congratulations are pouring in and I tip my hat to gaps among student subgroups. (Afton’s recognition the extraordinary staff, students, and parents that is under the latter category.) Every year the U. S. have created a place for Afton Elementary among Department of Education seeks out and celebrates the 1% of schools that have achieved Blue Ribbon great American schools, schools demonstrating that all recognition in the United States.” students can achieve to high levels. More than 9,000 schools across the country have been presented with Afton Elementary, a K-5 school located in Yardley, this coveted award. The National Blue Ribbon School is home to 554 students and 75 staff members. For award affirms the hard work of students, educators, the past ten years, ongoing professional development families, and communities in creating safe and that focused on curriculum, instruction, and welcoming schools where students master challenging assessment has evolved into a school-wide data content. The National Blue Ribbon School flag gracing culture that has transformed and sustained student an entry or flying overhead is a widely recognized achievement, according to Dr. Masgai. The past symbol of exemplary teaching and learning. five years of the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) reflects consistent double-digit Dr. Masgai looks forward to going to Washington, results, well above the state averages in language D.C. in mid-November to receive the school’s arts, writing, mathematics, and science. Evidentiary award plaque and National Blue Ribbon School flag data reflect that universal student performance on during a special ceremony that will honor 312 public the PSSA has been historically 20 to 40% above state and 50 non-public schools for their outstanding averages. This remarkable growth and achievement achievements. are the direct result of teachers’ diagnostic abilities to interpret real meaning from data and their EDGEWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL prescriptive abilities to design and deliver engaging lessons directly guided by data results. Edgewood Elementary students and staff came together to participate in their annual Jam on the Hill According to Principal Masgai, “The three event. “This school-wide initiative promotes the use interconnected lenses of collaborative strategic of brain breaks in the classroom,” explained Principal planning based upon data, effective staff development, Stephanie Hultquist. “Brain breaks are exercises and a shared instructional improvement plan are the in which students participate in all classrooms tools that have set high standards and expectations

6 OCTOBER 2019 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

Week. The Start with Hello program, which was created by Sandy Hook Promise, aims to teach children how to be “more socially inclusive and connected to each other.” Kristen Cahill, school counselor, visited Fallsington’s classrooms to speak with students about the important lessons behind Start with Hello, focusing on the following steps: see someone alone, reach out to help, start with hello. Fallsington students also took part in a Mix-N-Mingle lunch on September 23rd. Students were encouraged to sit with peers they do not regularly sit with and were given conversation starters to prompt discussions. The Mix-N-Mingle was enjoyed by the students and fostered an Edgewood Elementary’s fifth grade Fuel Up to Play60 Student Ambassadors led a schoolwide brain break to generate academic environment of community and friendship. motivation and to help anchor learning. throughout the school day to encourage the crossing over of the midline of the body to energize or calm the brain. Movement acts to motivate the brain and helps to anchor learning. Activity and movement also add to a positive classroom climate and help to lower stress in students ultimately increasing the ability to achieve academically and socially. This event is led by our fifth grade Fuel Up To Play60 students as well as Physical Education teacher, Joe Gallo and Reading Specialist, Kimberly Todor. Our Fuel Up students included: Lyla Picker, Sydney Darling, Sophia Smith, Madison Ferroni, Liam Simmers, Regan Rodrigueuz, Julia Gorski, Maddie Amendolari, Zach Remus, Ryan Storlazzi, Semoj Williams, Katie Students at Fallsington Elementary enjoyed a Mix-N-Mingle lunch Graham, Jack Arndt, Sofia Gorski, Kyle Baker, that involved sitting with peers they don’t know very well to foster community and friendship. Chase Buscaglia, Kingston Ford, Cailyn Reilly, Egan Ruppersberger, and Charlee Bennett. At the conclusion of the event, students were dismissed On September 27th, Fallsington Elementary via a mindful process to encourage a calm, safe, and School, along with over 200,000 groups worldwide, respectful return to the classroom to begin their day. participated in World Character Day. Organized This event is one of many that continues to support by letitripple.org, World Character Day is a two schoolwide goals of explicitly instructing mindful day dedicated to teaching and recognizing the practices and encouraging ROARS practices.” importance of developing and improving character (qualities like empathy, curiosity, grit, humility, bravery, social responsibility, and many more). FALLSINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Fallsington students took part in this important day by dressing up as favorite characters (book During the week of September 23rd, Fallsington characters, super heroes, etc.) who possess participated for the first time in Start with Hello positive character traits. The school counselor also

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • OCTOBER 2019 7 District Highlights Report visited Kindergarten through fourth grade classes Pennsbury’s Yellow Bird Players paid a recent visit delivering lessons on character development. to Fallsington! The volunteer bus drivers who make “Fallsington’s Character Day served as a wonderful up the Yellow Bird Players team took time from their opportunity to reinforce our building’s PAW Pride busy schedules to visit the Kindergarten classes of character education program, which focuses on Cherie Lynne Kooker and Jennifer Tietz to share bus safety, respect, and responsibility,” said Ms. Cahill. safety tips with these new, young learners.

At the end of September, Fallsington honored Fallsington held a kickoff celebration in honor interim principal, Fay Manicke, and welcomed of the love of reading for the 100 Book Challenge new principal, Vinny DePaola. First, Fallsington initiative. Sheila Miley, Fallsington’s Reading students were surprised to be welcomed to school Specialist, inspired the students to get ready to by a high-fiving Tiger! Staff and students were treasure reading with an attention-getting pirate thrilled to learn that the person within the mascot theme with the help of SPARK teacher and coach, costume was Fallsington’s new Principal, Mr. Mark Costanzo (resident pirate), and Alison Blaney. DePaola. It was quite the introduction and one that Mr. Costanzo generated enthusiasm by sharing the school community will remember for years to a pirate book using his authentic pirate voice. come. The next day, Fallsington staff and students Everyone left ready to read something special to celebrated and thanked Ms. Manicke for her support their – arrrrrgggghhh – Matey! of Fallsington during her time there last spring and early fall. In her honor, and as a nod to her love of all things Disney, the Fallsington community wore its finest Disney gear and Mickey ears. The students and staff gathered during a morning assembly to express their gratitude and thank Ms. Manicke for all that she did to support the building during the 2018-2019 and the 2019-2020 school years.

SPARK teacher, Mark Costanzo, led a pirate-themed kickoff to the 100 Book Challenge at Fallsington Elementary.

MANOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Young Audiences Arts for Learning aims to inspire young people and expand their learning through the arts. District administrators and PTO representatives Fallsington Elementary students said hello to their new Principal, were invited to preview a sampling of Young Vinny DePaolo, when he revealed himself from inside a tiger Audiences assembly performances, meet the artists, costume, and they also bid a fond farewell to interim Principal and network with other school reps at Manor in (and Pennsbury retiree) Fay Manicke. late September. A total of nine performance groups

8 OCTOBER 2019 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

Honoring the hard work of the Upper Makefield Police Department, A special showcase of educational assemblies visited Manor second and third grade Life Skills students at Quarry Hill Elementary Elementary to preview a variety of age-appropriate presentations sent thank you letters as their way to mark September 11th. on a full range of topics. us with a bag of goodies for each student!” said Ms. showcased their entertaining and educational Jumper, whose husband works with the UMPD. offerings in 15 minute segments for all grade levels. “It was a pleasure to host this showcase event,” WALT DISNEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL said Manor Principal, Terri Salvucci. “Our students were exposed to so many excellent performances.” “Walt Disney Elementary students celebrated the To learn more About Young Audiences Arts for retirement of one of the school’s crossing guards, Learning NJ & Eastern PA go to www.yanjep.org. Debbie Lembesis,” writes Kindergarten teacher, Lorie Becker. Ms. Lembesis has served as a crossing guard OXFORD VALLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL for 27 years! Students marked the occasion with a brief assembly, a cake presented by the Tullytown Police Last month, Oxford Valley had the rare opportunity department, and a final walk escorted by police car to host a visit by both an author and an illustrator, to her crossing post. Miss Debbie received her own shares librarian, Jenn Dillon. “In an effort to promote ‘clap-out’ from the entire school as students lined the their new book, Who Wet My Pants?, author Bob driveway and clapped and cheered during her final Shea and illustrator Zachariah OHora read and walk down the drive. Thank you for your many years discussed their books with students in grades K-3,” of service, Ms. Lembesis! said Ms. Dillon. “The kids were enthralled with their presentation about writing AND illustrating! This amazing opportunity was made possible for our students through Pennsbury Partner, Kathy Morrison, owner of The Newtown Bookshop.”

QUARRY HILL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In honor of the significance of September 11th, second and third grade Life Skills students taught by Angela Jumper at Quarry Hill wrote thank you letters to the Upper Makefield Police Department for all Walt Disney Elementary crossing guard, Debbie Lembesis, that they do every day to keep the community safe. received a “clap-out” along with a police escort as she left work “The Upper Makefield Police Department surprised on her last day before retiring.

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • OCTOBER 2019 9 District Highlights Report

Similar to the experience arranged for the youngest students at Fallsington Elementary, Kindergarten and first grade students at Walt Disney enjoyed a program about bus safety from the Transportation Department’s traveling Yellow Bird Players. The players discussed how to be safe on the bus, waiting for the bus, and around the bus. “These busy Pennsbury drivers take time out of their day to meet with students,” said Ms. Becker. “This special focus on safety means a lot to the students and their families. Thank you, Yellow Bird Players!”

Dr. Dana Koch, a veterinarian and a Pennsbury Partner, came to visit Walt Disney’s Kindergarten students with her therapy dog, Winston. Along with Kindergarten students at Walt Disney Elementary were excited to helping students understand what’s involved in host representatives from Tullytown Fire Company #33 during being a veterinarian, Dr. Dana and Winston offered Fire Prevention Month. listening ears as small groups of students read the book, Up on Top, to them. Research studies show that fireman looks like in full gear. Students were then when children read aloud to therapy dogs they make treated to a tour of the firetruck and were able to sit positive associations around reading. in the passenger seats. Thank you, Company #33!

PENNSBURY HIGH SCHOOL

The World Language Department celebrated its 31st German-American Partnership Program at its Abschiedsfest (Farewell Dinner) on Thursday, October 10th, with eighteen German exchange students, their Pennsbury host families, and German chaperones Fr. Rachel Kingman and Fr. Heidi Alpha. German students from our sister-school, Gymnasium

Dr. Dana Koch visited with Kindergarten students at Walt Disney Elementary to share details about her job as a vet and to listen to the students read to her therapy dog, Winston.

Pre-K and Kindergarten students were treated to a visit from Tullytown Fire Company #33 during October, which is Fire Prevention Month. Firemen Dave and Joe spoke to the students about what to do in case of a fire emergency. The first responders German exchange students posed with their American host brothers put on their uniforms to show the students what a and sisters at this fall’s Abschiedsfest (Farewell Dinner).

10 OCTOBER 2019 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

Caecilienschule Oldenburg, visited Pennsbury from the new students into our Pennsbury High School September 24th to October 11th, attended classes family. Guided by an NHS member, freshman with host brothers/sisters, presented in German students started their day at the East gymnasium, classes, and explored Philadelphia, NYC, Princeton where the various clubs set up posters and passed and Washington DC under the direction of GAPP out goods to ninth graders, giving them information Coordinator, Amy DiFazio. This year’s GAPP theme about all of the clubs that Pennsbury has to offer. is Wunderbar Together! Much of the school’s student body is involved in some sort of extracurricular activity, and the Activity The PHS Cheerleaders welcomed Pennsbury Falcon Fair’s purpose was to show how to embrace the Cheerleading Association cheerleaders during the importance of getting involved with the school and high school’s large-scale “Be Our Guest” night at its students and faculty. The students then split off Falcon Field. The younger girls – grades Kindergarten into small groups, again led by NHS members. They through middle school – were able to practice and participated in an interactive scavenger hunt held learn cheers with the JV Cheerleaders before the throughout both campuses. This activity gave the football game, and then they performed for the first students the opportunity to learn about the school quarter with the Varsity Cheerleaders. Fallsington and its main locations, as well as the layouts of both teacher, Cherie Kooker, said, “As a Pennsbury campuses. Freshman Avery Mackey reminisced about parent, I was so excited to see my fourth grader on the how the Freshman Orientation helped him learn sidelines doing cheers with the high school girls; as about the new school: ‘The Club Fair gave me insight on a Pennsbury teacher, I was so proud that I work in a the various clubs that the school has. I even joined many District that teaches its students to give back, to take of them that day. The scavenger hunt helped me learn the the time and teach others! The girls cannot wait to do layouts of both buildings, especially West, because it is it again next year. What a great night!” a confusing building.’ There were various activities, such as throwing a football on our beloved Falcon Field and learning about the school through a student panel. The panel, full of Pennsbury NHS members, answered questions that the freshmen had, relating to classes, clubs, and the path. The whole day was focused on the freshman class, allowing them to learn the ins and outs of Pennsbury High School without the stress of being around the older students. All in all, it was a successful start to the school year for both the freshmen and the NHS students.”

Commendable PHS Cheerleaders were happy to work with the young participants in the PFCA community league to share skills and a little bit of the ACCOMPLISHMENTS spotlight during a recent Falcons football game. NATIONAL MERIT COMMENDED Ranier Acierto, PHS National Honor Society Public Relations Officer, writes, “The NHS students of STUDENTS RECOGNIZED the Class of 2020 participated in this year’s Welcome PHS West Principal Lisa Becker shares the to the Nest Freshman Orientation as guides. Members good news that the following seniors were named scattered throughout the East campus and greeted Commended Students in the 2020 National Merit

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • OCTOBER 2019 11 District Highlights Report

Scholarship Program. Wyatt Alexander, Julie Cohen, demonstrates respectfulness in SPARK class when Ryan Collins, Priya Deliwala, Jake Gray, Rachel he attentively listens to the speaker.” Ms. Castelli Guloy, Erika Hansen, Christopher Heitmann, noted, “Griffin is always extremely polite, nice, and Zachary Holzberg, Kartik Kannan, Robert respectful. Whenever he asks for my help....he uses Oleynick, Sumayah Oudda, Victoria Przybos, great manners and does so in a respectful way.” Jacob Shin, Nathan Shin, Jason Steiner, Charles Several teachers noted that they were touched when Terry, Sarah Uhlman, and Benjamin Wachspress. he and his mother purchased and gave an inspiring Congratulations to all! book to the Kindergarten and first grade titled, We Are All Wonders. LYFT CHARACTER AWARD Piper Zeman is a sixth grader at William Penn WINNERS ANNOUNCED Middle School who was nominated by teacher, Tracy Titus-Goldberg. Ms. Titus-Goldberg said In conjunction with the District’s ongoing that although new to Pennsbury, Piper has quickly character education initiative, students at the become a caring, polite and respected leader in elementary, middle, and high school levels are the school community. Piper greets her peers, being spotlighted each month for possessing specific teachers, and other staff daily with words that are positive character assets. For the month of October genuine, kind, and welcoming. She is respectful 2019, students are being recognized for exemplifying of rules and the school-wide behavior plan. She the trait of Respectfulness. The students honored this leads by example, modeling expected hallway month are Piper Zeman, Amanda Rearden, Griffin behaviors and procedures. Ms. Titus-Goldberg said, Phillips, and Toby Riggall. “In a community where she could’ve chosen to be anything, Piper has chosen to be a respectful leader At the elementary level, the first award this and a positive influence on others.” month goes to Toby Riggall who is in the fifth grade at Quarry Hill Elementary School. Toby was Amanda Rearden, a senior from Pennsbury High nominated by teacher, Jessica Hilbert, who writes School, is the honoree this month at the high school that Toby stands out to her as a student who is so level. Amanda was nominated by teacher, David polite and kind. “He always uses his manners and Reimschussel, who said that Amanda consistently says please and thank you to his teachers,” said Ms. demonstrates a polite manner when interacting with Hilbert. “On the first day of school, he asked me if I others. She actively listens to her peers, showing needed help with anything. When I speak to him, he them respect. When giving feedback to others, always gives me his full attention and eye contact. she uses positive terms to uplift them. Amanda is When I give directions to the class, Toby will stop respectful of school policies and classroom rules. She what he is doing immediately and pay attention.” sets a positive example for others around her. If she questions a policy or rule, she does so thoughtfully The second elementary school winner this month and respectfully. is Griffin Phillips. Griffin is in Kindergarten at Fallsington Elementary School and was nominated by Jennifer Tietz, Cherie Lynn Kooker, Terri Sherman, Sue Castelli, Kristen Cahill, and Principal Vinny DePaola. They say that in just one month, Griffin has made quite the impact on their school community with his respectful manner and character. Griffin’s respectful behavior stood out to SPARK teacher, Ms. Sherman, who said, “Griffin

12 OCTOBER 2019 • PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA www.pennsburysd.org District Highlights Report

SCHAEFER WINS NATIONAL AWARD

Please join in congratulating Casey Schaeffer, a PHS Upcoming MEETINGS sophomore, who was selected as the grand Board Facilities Committee prize winner in Barbara’s 5:00 p.m., November 7, 2019 Believe in Better Superintendent’s Conference Room Contest, a nationwide search sponsored by Board Education Committee Barbara’s Bakery, Inc., 7:30 p.m., November 7, 2019 to recognize American youth doing better by Superintendent’s Conference Room leading a do-good, Casey Schaeffer non-profit, charity, Board Finance/Partnership Committee school, or community 6:00 p.m., November 14, 2019 project. As the winner, Casey’s grand prize winnings Superintendent’s Conference Room of $10,000.00 will benefit the Children’s Tumor Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to Action Board Meeting finding effective treatments for the millions of 7:30 p.m., November 21, 2019 people worldwide living with neurofibromatosis Fallsington Elementary School (NF), a genetic disorder causing tumors to grow on the nerves throughout the body which may lead to blindness, deafness, bone abnormalities, learning from many entrants nationwide by Barbara’s as a disabilities, disabling pain, and cancer. finalist. She then received the most votes online over a four-week period. Casey thanks everyone at Casey started her Full Heart charitable initiative Barbara’s, all of her friends and family who took the in 2015 to empower kids to get involved in their time to vote, and Becky Diamond for nominating her communities. Full Heart volunteers at many for this contest. Casey is the daughter of Chuck and community events annually and in just over four Jenny Schaeffer of Yardley. years has donated about $16,000 to charitable causes. This year’s 4th Full Heart Kids Carnival, organized by Casey with nearly 30 volunteers, was the most successful to date, raising over $12,300 while donating over $9,500 to several charities, including the Children’s Tumor Foundation and A Soldier’s Hands. In 2018, Casey created the Full Heart Music Scholarship, awarded annually to the most improved music senior at Pennsbury.

Casey was nominated for Barbara’s Believe in Better contest by Becky Diamond, a Full Heart volunteer and friend of Casey’s whose son, Patrick, also attends Pennsbury. Her entry was selected

www.pennsburysd.org PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT • FALLSINGTON, PA • OCTOBER 2019 13 SPARK NEWSLETTER

What is SPARK? The fifth special in Pennsbury, SPARK is STEM through perseverance, application, resilience, and kinetic knowledge. Using STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) makes SPARK a verb by engaging students K-5 in How was your child’s exploratory learning linked to curricular content interest SPARK’d this week? and encourages students to continue to We are uncovering and innovating in SPARK. discover their world! Every student has valid ideas and their interests are valued.

We began the SPARK adventure with Here are some ways to SPARK a discussion collaborative team building activities. using our STEM goals of innovation and collaboration… Instead of SPARK Units of Study Ask the Engineer... asking... Looking ahead, students will begin their first What did you unit study. What problems were you trying make in Kindergarten: “Floating & Sinking” to solve today in SPARK? SPARK today? First grade: “Pushes & Pulls” What did you Second Grade: “Animal Adaptations” What part of your design were learn in SPARK you most proud of? Third Grade: “Properties of Matter” today? Fourth Grade: “Computer Systems” Fifth Grade: “Infection Detection” Was SPARK When you tested your model, fun? did it meet the challenge?

Sparking Falcon Pride Mrs. Jones with Manor student Click here to watch video SPARK Students using PLTW to “This is the second invention he’s built get ready for their first this month with the help of his father.” Engineering Design Unit

Stem through Perseverance, Application, Resilience, and Kinetic Knowledge Charles H. Boehm Middle School PTO presents the 30th annual

Charles Boehm Craft Show

Saturday, November 2, 2019

9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Charles H. Boehm PTO Middle School Fall Fundraiser

866 Big Oak Rd.

Yardley, Pa 19067

Over 100 juried craftspeople and artists

Jewelry Home Decor Wood Crafts Art to Wear

Door Prizes Cafe' & Bake Sale Raffle Table

$2.00 for Adults Children are free

Watch for discount coupons in local papers

Village Park Academy

2nd Annual Craft Fair

Where: 7 5 Unity Drive Levittown PA 19054

When: Saturday, November 9th 2019, 10am - 1pm

There will be 20+ vendors!

Bring the kids to see S ANTA SCOTT and get their pictures taken with him!

Come out and support Village Park Academy while getting some holiday shopping done!