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BOYERTOWN, PA

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SUMMER 2016

BoyERtown AREA School DiStRictTo enable all students to succeed in a changing world.

Celebrating Our District

Richard Faidley, Ed.D. Superintendent

Celebrating the Class of 2016During the 124th commencement ceremony, 508 graduates walked into Bear Stadium to receive their diplomas on Tuesday, June 7. Student speakers included valedictorian Olivia Crocker, Salutatorian Jordan Shustack, and senior Class president, Jordan Wood.

Olivia compared high school to being in a fishbowl where her and her classmates enjoyed “an air of familiarity and safety; where the water was controlled for acidity and the landmarks rarely changed.” She continued by explaining that this environment encouraged

Jacob R. Irvin received his diploma from Superintendent Dr. Richard Faidley during the June 7 graduation ceremony.

each member of the senior class to take risks and explore new things without the threat of serious failure hinging on their performance.

“In our time in the fishbowl, we have each grown into our own person, and although there are many of us, we are each a “big fish” in our own way,” Olivia explained.

In her analogy, walking off stage with their diplomas in hand was their way of officially exiting the fishbowl and “being flung into the ocean that is the real world, a world of immense freedom and an immeasurable amount of uncertainty.”

She closed by reminding her peers that “although the world may feel like a big ocean and you a

Valedictorian Olivia J. Crocker addressed her peers during the June 7 graduation ceremony.

Living in Pennsyl-vania for the past five years has helped me to appreciate the beauty and change that accompany each passing sea-son. As summer begins, I can’t help but reflect on our next set of changes. Our students earn promotions to the next grade, staff members complete June assignments and prepare for August, and families adjust to summer schedules

and activities. I thank our students, staff, parents and community members for all their contributions to make the 2015–16 school year very successful. Our students continue to achieve, excel, and grow. This newsletter provides details on some impressive examples of this work.The end of the school year also marks a retirement decision for many staff members. It is with great pride that we honor our retiring staff members each June. Our students’ success is a direct result of the dedicated service our talented employees provide. We wish our departing staff members the best with their future endeavors.No group experiences greater changes this sum-mer than the BASH Class of 2016. Our graduated seniors have learned lessons at home, in school, and in our community to help them become successful adults. In this edition we feature several Class of 2016 members, what they did during their educa-tion at Boyertown, and how this work has prepared them for their chosen career fields. At the Class of 2016’s commencement ceremony, I was honored to share a few words of advice. I centered my message around four themes:• Prioritize your time to ensure a balance

between doing your best work and having fun.• Persevere through the challenges and road-

blocks.• Promote your best qualities at work, in school,

and within your friendships.• Choose a career path that you enjoy and are

truly passionate about.While these words were intended for our students, I plan to reflect upon them when working each day as your Superintendent of Schools. I hope that each of you enjoy some time with friends and family this summer. I look forward to working with you as we prepare for our next “season”: the opening of the 2016–17 school year. A new group of students—the Class of 2029—will be entering kindergarten, and the Boyertown Area School District will be ready to serve them.

Continued on page 2

Congratulations to the BASH base-ball team for defeating Plum High School 4-1 to become the 2016 PIAA AAAA State Champions! The Bears have set a great example of sportsmanship, dedication, and perseverance throughout their jour-ney to the 2016 State Championship title. On behalf of the Boyertown Area School District we would like to extend our congratulations to the dedicated student-athletes, coaches, and fans who all played major roles in bringing home the 2016 PIAA AAAA State Championship title!

State Champions!

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DiStriCt DireCtOryBoyertown Area School District

911 Montgomery Avenue, Boyertown, PA 19512 610-367-6031 | 610-369-7620 (fax)

www.boyertownasd.org

Board of School DirectorsJill A. Dennin, PresidentStephen Elsier, Vice-Presidentclay D. BreeceRobert J. casoJohn c. landinoDavid P. lewisChristine M. NeimanPaul D. StengleDonna l. Usavage

District Office AdministrationDr. Richard h. Faidley, SuperintendentRobert l. Scoboria, Assistant SuperintendentDavid A. Szablowski, Chief Financial OfficerDr. Melissa L. Woodard, Chief Academic OfficerDr. Greg M. Miller, Chief Student Achievement OfficerStephen Katch, Chief Human Resources Officer

Boyertown Area Senior High School120 north Monroe Street, Boyertown, PA 19512610-369-7435Dr. Brett A. Cooper, PrincipalDr. E. wayne Foley, Assistant PrincipalAndrew t. Maoury, Assistant PrincipalKelly B. Mason, Assistant Principal

Junior High School, east Center2020 Big Road, Gilbertsville, PA 19525610-754-9550 Andrew c. Ruppert, PrincipalStephanie A. Petri, Assistant Principal

Junior High School, West Center380 South Madison Street, Boyertown, PA 19512610-369-7471Gregory S. Galtere, PrincipaltBD, Assistant Principal

Boyertown elementary School641 East Second Street, Boyertown, PA 19512610-369-7462 craig R. Kehl, Principal

Colebrookdale elementary School1001 Montgomery Avenue, Boyertown, PA 19512610-369-7427 Michael R. Stoudt, Principal

earl elementary School22 Schoolhouse Road, Boyertown, PA 19512610-369-7504 tBD, Principal

Gilbertsville elementary School36 congo Road, Gilbertsville, PA 19525610-369-7485 Stephanie l. landis, Principal

New Hanover-Upper Frederick elementary School2547 Big Road, Frederick, PA 19435610-754-9580 Brian J. Rohn, Principal

Pine Forge elementary School8 Glendale Road, Boyertown, PA 19512610-323-7609 tBD, Principal

Washington elementary School1406 Route 100, Barto, PA 19504610-754-9589christopher J. iacobelli, Principal

The Boyertown Area School District Newsletter is published by the Boyertown Area School District. For questions or comments regarding this publication, please contact Kristine Parkes at Communications@Boyertownasd.org.

Alumni Spotlight: CeO Proud of BASD roots

Continued from page 1

Three-sport athlete Mr. Peter Madeja, class of 1976, looks back fondly on his years as a Boyer-town Bear.

“As I reflect upon my time as a student in the Boyertown Area School District, I am often reminded of how profound an impact educators have had on my life,” Mr. Madeja explains. “I have the highest respect for the quality teachers in the District.”

One of the teachers who had the greatest influence on his life was his father, Mr. Stanley Madeja, who dedicated 35 years to educating students in the Boyertown Area School District. Even though Mr. Madeja never had his father as a teacher, he credits his father for teaching him important lessons that still hold true today.

As a high school student, Mr. Madeja was not only a dedicated academic but also a celebrated athlete. To start off the school year, Mr. Madeja was the quarterback on the football team; in the winter he was the point guard on the basketball team; and in the spring he played shortstop on the baseball team, earning a total of nine varsity letters.

Earning the respect of his coaches and teammates, Mr. Madeja served as captain (co-captain/game captain) of all three teams his senior year. Mr. Madeja credits his high school athletic career for his competitive nature and treasures the memories he shares with coaches, friends and teammates.

Over his four years as a Boyertown Bear, Mr. Madeja competed for the league Ches-Mont Championship three times. During his sophomore year, the baseball team defeated Coatesville High School making them Ches-Mont Champions. During his senior year, Mr. Madeja made it to the Ches-Mont Championships twice. Unfortunately, losing both times: to Coatesville High School in basketball and to Downingtown High School in baseball.

After high school, Mr. Madeja attended the Uni-versity of Pennsylvania, earning his undergraduate degree in history and his Master’s degree in edu-cation across four years while competing in varsity football (two years) and baseball (four years).

Upon graduation, Mr. Madeja pursued a career in business. His first job as a college graduate was with the PMA Insurance Group, where he worked with property and casualty commercial insurance. After two years, Mr. Madeja was invited to join and become a partner in a small start-up, a position that eventually led to his current role at Genex Services.

Now, three decades later, Mr. Madeja is the Chief Executive Officer of Genex Services, a nationally recognized industry leader in providing medical

cost containment and disability management services. Following in the footsteps of his grand-father, who owned and operated his own business, Mr. Madeja has shown dedication and drive that have been crucial to the success of Genex Services. Genex has annual revenues of more than $425 mil-lion and employs approximately 3,000 staff. (The Philadelphia Inquirer recently profiled Genex for their work in addressing the national opioid crisis). Genex today is a private company owned by the management team and a private equity partner.

“Over the years at Genex I have been very fortu-nate to again be surrounded by great teammates,” Mr. Madeja states. “There have been many accom-plishments throughout my career involving suc-cessful merger and acquisition activities. Whether we were on the buying or selling end, there was an intense amount of work that has led to our growth and position as an industry leader. However, none of this could have been accomplished without the support of senior team colleagues and employees across the organization”

Mr. Madeja and his wife, Wynn Madeja, have one daughter, Davis, who will be attending college in the fall. In his free time, Mr. Madeja enjoys run-ning and exercising, and an occasional round of golf or game of tennis.

If you know of a Boyertown Area Senior High alumnus or alumna who would be a good candidate for a spotlight article, please email Communications@boyertownasd.org.

Class of 2016small fish, you can become a big fish by being passionate, driven, and resilient” and that “if you aren’t terrified by some of your choices, you aren’t living up to your full potential.”

Salutatorian Jordan Shustack commented that for some graduation night was “the occasion some of us have been wishing for since we first donned our bus tag and backpack and headed off to kindergarten.” While “for others, it is a bittersweet but exciting conclusion that seemed light-years away when, as 10th graders, we first tried to find our way in the halls at BASH.”

Recognizing that the road to graduation may not have been an easy or happy road for each of his fellow graduates, he reminded them to “take in the moment and allow the magnitude of their accomplishment to sink in and to savor the sweet feeling of success.”

Class President Jordan Wood took his classmates on a walk down memory lane. He began with memories of sitting on carpet squares in elementary school, singing Christmas carols, competing in field days, and attending YMCA dances. He continued with recollections of junior high school, including dance marathons and decorating friends’ lockers on their birthdays. He finished with thoughts of their high school days, from the first weeks of trying to find their way around a new school to discovering new interests and talents.

To close, Jordan thanked the class. “It has been a true honor and pleasure being everyone’s president, classmate, and friend over the past few years. Boyertown will always be a major, and the first, stepping stone in our life, and I am lucky to say that everyone on this field has played a role in my life.”

For an in-depth look at the graduates, see pages 4 and 5.

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Student Council Wins Prestigious National Gold Council of excellence AwardThe Boyertown Area Senior High School Student Council was awarded the 2015–2016 National Gold Council of Excellence Award for their exemplary history of leadership, service, and activities that improve their school and commu-nity. This prestigious recognition was awarded by the National Association of Student Councils (NASC), an organization that promotes and provides leadership development opportunities to prepare and empower student leaders to serve their schools and communities. Boyertown Area Senior High School is one of only five high-school student councils from Pennsylvania to receive this highly esteemed honor.

To meet the requirements for the award, a student council must demonstrate that it meets a variety of criteria. In addition to basic requirements such as a written constitution, regular meetings, a demo-

cratic election process, and membership in NASC, councils that qualify for the award demonstrate such things as leadership training for council members, teacher/staff appreciation activities, student recogni-tion programs, school and community service proj-ects, spirit activities, goal setting, financial planning, and active participation in their state and national student council associations.

The student council president, senior Mikaela Axman, reflected on her time spent on the student council: “Being a part of Boyertown Area Senior High School’s student council has been the best part of my high school experience. As a member of the student council, I have watched myself and others grow as leaders and individuals, preparing us for college and what’s next.” Mikaela added, “From rais-ing money for charity or getting the student body involved, the entire student council worked hard.

I am proud to have been part of this wonderful group of people. The memories I have made will last a lifetime!”

The Boyertown Area School District wishes to congratulate the student council on this presti-gious recognition.

Washington elementary School Hosts First Annual Cubs on the run 2K raceThis spring, Washington Elementary School held its first annual Cubs on the Run 2K, a race featuring the after-school program Cubs on the Run. The run was a culminating event that cele-brated the students’ dedication to living a healthier lifestyle.

The morning of the race was one to remember. Almost 80 students in the Cubs on the Run Club invited the entire school outside and led a stretch-ing exercise and a fun dance routine. Then, Wash-ington Elementary School students and the Cubs did a serene yoga exercise before splitting into two groups. The Cubs went to the starting line and the rest of the school lined up around the desig-nated race track to cheer on the runners. Fueled by school spirit and the support of their peers, the 80 Bear Cubs ran fiercely and passionately around Washington Elementary School grounds complet-ing the Cubs on the Run 2k Race.

“Washington Elementary School strives to develop the whole child. We believe that high academic achievement is just as important as

high health and fitness achievement. This year, our Healthy Foods and Exercise Committee set a goal to provide students with an opportunity to increase their knowledge of healthy foods and physical fitness by offering a program called “Cubs on the Run”,” said Washington Elementary School princi-pal Mr. Christopher Iacobelli. “Throughout the year, teachers gave up their own personal time to volun-teer to stay after school to coach students. The Cubs on the Run 2K Race was a great way for the 80 or so athletes to showcase their knowledge and fitness level to the entire school and community. Our hope is that the race was fun for all and motivated others to join the Cubs on the Run program for 2016-2017 school year.”

Cubs on the Run teaches students about the impor-tance of an active and healthy lifestyle. Developed by the Healthy Food and Exercise Committee, the program has become an instant success in the eyes of students and parents alike.

Over the course of the school year, students in third through sixth grades, known as the Cubs,

stayed after school twice a week and participated in healthy lifestyle activities. Each activity had an emphasis of teamwork, encouragement, and endurance/resilience. While the activities varied from week to week, generally the Cubs started off with a healthy snack, followed by a warm-up dance routine, then headed outside to run laps. Each lap was measured at one-fourth of a mile, which allowed the Cubs to set goals for them-selves and keep track of their personal bests each week.

According to the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition, children now spend more than seven and a half hours a day in front of a screen. Participating in Cubs on the Run is the perfect way to encourage children to live healthier lifestyles by providing them with an opportunity to be active and have fun at the same time.

This program is for all students, and with a non-competitive environment, all students are encour-aged to participate in Cubs on the Run next year.

Athletic HighlightsSenior Elijah Shalaway will continue his education at Wake Forest University where he will major in exercise science and compete on the track team. Elijah has had a very successful athletic career with the Boyertown Bears, earning multiple athletic honors. He was the 2016 District I Javelin Champion, two-time State and National Champion thrower, and was named a PAC 10 Champion in three different events - shot put, discus, and javelin. Elijah chose to attend Wake Forest University for its athletic and academic opportunities, and is excited to become a Wake Forest University Demon Deacon this fall!

Senior Gregg Harvey Jr. will continue his education at the University of Pittsburgh where he will study civil engineering and compete on the men’s Division I wrestling team. Gregg’s high school wrestling career has been nothing short of exceptional. With a record of 168 career wins, Gregg is the second all-time most winningest wrestler in Boyertown Area School District history. He also is a two-time State Medalist, finishing fifth and sixth at the State Championship. Gregg chose to attend the University of Pittsburgh for its wonderful academic and athletic setting. Ready to start making waves in the NCAA, Gregg is determined to earn All-American status as a collegiate

wrestler. Gregg would like to thank his coaches, parents, and teammates for pushing him to become the best student-athlete he can be.

Senior Bryton Henry will continue his education at Eastern University where he will study to become an athletic trainer and will compete on the men’s cross country team. Bryton’s athletic highlights include competing in the Pennsylvania State Championships in 2015. An active community member, Bryton regularly volunteers at local soup kitchens and participates in mission trips with New Hanover United Methodist Church. Bryton is excited to continue his running career as an Eastern University Eagle. Congratulations!

All three swimmers had a very successful season under the direction of new head swim coach, Bill Draves.

Cara Megill, Patrick Lance and Ivan Escott qualified for the PIAA AAA Swimming State Championship. All three are juniors on the BASH swim team. The state championship was held on March 16th and 17th at Bucknell University.

Cara Megill qualified for the 500 yard Freestyle and went into the meet seeded in 20th place. She

swam a 5:07.16 earning her 15th place in her preliminary event and qualified for evening consolation finals. She finished 14th overall. Cara was elected to Second Team All PAC-10 for 500 yard Freestyle and the All-Berks County Third Team for the 500 yard Freestyle.

Patrick Lance qualified for the 200 yard Freestyle and the 100 yard Butterfly. He placed 23rd in both events. He was elected to First Team All PAC-10 for 200 yard Freestyle and 100 yard Butterfly. Patrick was also elected to the All-Berks County Second Team in the 200 yard Freestyle.

Ivan Escott attended as second alternate in the 200 yard Freestyle. He was elected to Second Team All PAC-10 for 100 yard Butterfly.

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Celebrating the Class of 2016A Spotlight on the Class of 2016Our Boyertown Area Senior High graduates have worked hard and persevered through hardships, and will continue to make a difference in the world. To give you a glimpse into the lives of our graduates, we would like to introduce you to the following students, who represent this year’s graduating class.

To say that Haley Hnatuk enjoys music and performing is an understatement. In addition to playing the flute and piccolo in the school’s band and the violin in the orchestra, Haley has been singing for as long as she can remember. She

sings with chorus and has been taking private vocal lessons with Kass Boles since she was in eighth grade. As a junior she performed in Europe with the music department.

However, as much as Haley enjoys singing, she is passionate about filmmaking and will be attending Muhlenberg College, where she will major in film studies and media communication. Haley joined the BASH TV crew as a sophomore, which is highly unusual. During her junior year she attended the KYW/CBS-3 News Study Program. As a senior, she served as president and director and received the BASH TV Excellence Award.

Haley will be attending Muhlenberg College on a musical talent scholarship. Her dream is to direct films; she enjoys all genres, with the exception of horror. She is looking forward to the diverse film studies classes there.

Katelyne Little is motivated to begin Berks Technical Institute’s massage therapy program in the fall. She became interested in reflexology five years ago and was excited to learn about the Berks Technical Institute’s program during a

presentation by the school during her English class. After completing the program, Katelyne’s ultimate goal is to attend the Cortiva Institute to expand her knowledge base.

Katelyne has been involved with the yearbook since

eighth grade, serving as treasurer during her junior and senior years.

It is Katelyne’s mother who has made the biggest impact on her during her school career. Katelyne respects that her mother knew that she was trying her best in all of her academic classes, and appreciates her mother’s support regardless of the grades she may have received.

Since she was in sixth grade, community service has been an integral part of Ashley Barefoot’s life. From monthly trips to a soup kitchen to week-long mission trips with her church to help at orphanages and schools, Ashley feels good when she is helping others.

This desire to help others and make a difference led her to decide to attend York College of Pennsylvania to pursue a degree in nursing. She would like to work with cancer or trauma patients.

Ashley credits her parents for having the largest impact on her during her school career, explaining that they pushed her to succeed and to be the best person and student she could be.

In addition to community service, Ashley worked at Wegman’s every day after school, a job she will continue through the summer. She also started running three years ago and has successfully completed half-marathons and the Broad Street Run.

Olivia Steinmetz is an accomplished bassist who has been a member of the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra organization since she was 11 years old. She began playing with the Philadelphia Region Youth String Music (PRSYM),

moved on to Philadelphia Young Artists Orchestra (PYAO) and is now principal double bassist of the organization’s flagship ensemble, the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra (PYO). Rehearsals take her to Rittenhouse Square every Saturday morning.

Olivia is a member of the National Honor Society, vice president of the senior class, and captain of the varsity golf team.

In 2015 she received the Good Citizenship Award from the Youth Work Foundation of the Union League of Philadelphia. She also won the Biomedical Research Essay Contest from the Pennsylvania Society for Biomedical Research.

She has been a consistent medalist in various events of the PA Technology Student Association each year since 2013.

In music, she has been recognized with invitations to participate in many regional and national orchestras, including as principal bassist in the National Association for Music Educators All-National Honors Orchestra and All-Eastern Honors Orchestra, as well as the PA Music Educators Association All-State, Region, and District 10 Orchestras.

Olivia will attend Vanderbilt University in Nashville in September, where she will study music and neuroscience on a pre-med track. She has always had a passion for music and science and believes that, by studying both music and neuroscience, she will be fulfilled creatively and academically.

Before heading to Vanderbilt University, she will spend a second summer participating in an internship program at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia in the Neurology Department.

During her high school career, Taylor Landis has expertly balanced athletics, community service, and academics.

She played junior varsity and varsity basketball and soccer all four years. She was named to the PAC-10 Girls

Soccer All-Academic Team in 2014 and 2015 and the PAC-10 Girls Basketball All-Academic Team in 2016. She was named co-captain of the varsity girls’ soccer team in 2015. She also played with Berks Ajax Soccer.

Taylor was an active volunteer during high school, earning a Green Cord in her sophomore, junior, and senior years. Green Cords are awarded to students who contribute at least 100 hours of community service during a school year. In addition to volunteering at Morning Star Fellowship Church, Taylor was a math and Spanish tutor at Gilbertsville

Scenes from Graduation

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Celebrating the Class of 2016Elementary School and Boyertown Area Senior High.

Taylor will be attending the University of Pittsburgh in the fall. She will major in chemistry and is considering dental school and pursuing a career as an orthodontist.

Music is Allyson Bennett’s passion; since she was a young girl, she has wanted to perform. She has found a sense of belonging in opera and will continue her musical education at the New England Conservatory of Music as a vocal performance major.

She will study at the studio of renowned soprano and faculty member Jane Eaglen.

During high school, Allyson was a member of the concert and show choirs and participated in theater, musical theater, and drama club. She also was a member of the No Place for Hate Club and BASH TV.

As a senior, Allyson played Mary Poppins in the high school’s presentation of Mary Poppins. As a sophomore, she played Emma Carew in Jekyll & Hyde. However, her favorite high school memory is performing a solo at Carnegie Hall through the Metropolitan Opera Guild.

Allyson is grateful to all of her music teachers for encouraging her and for reminding her to make every performance special. She will always remember Mr. Jeffrey Brunner for telling her that “every performance has to be Carnegie Hall.”

This fall, Maia Mash will follow her dream of being a teacher by majoring in elementary education at Kutztown University.

As a junior and senior, Maia participated in Boyertown Area Senior High’s

preschool program. The program, which enrolls 16 preschool-aged children each semester, provides high school students with the opportunity to plan

and teach lessons. Maia loved the relationships she formed with the young students.

An honor-roll student since her freshman year, Maia also played violin in the orchestra, was a member of the Key Club, ran with the cross-country team, and was a member of the spring track team.

Maia is looking forward to the next chapter of her academic career and is considering Greek life, student government, and running cross-country.

A three-week family vacation to Italy inspired Madelyn Hair’s desire to learn the language and explore Italian culture. She decided that the best way to do this was to spend her senior year studying abroad. However, because the credits that

she would earn at an Italian high school wouldn’t transfer home to count towards graduation, Madelyn needed to complete the required credits by the end of her junior year. By graduating a year early, Madelyn can now spend her senior year in Italy.

Through a study-abroad program, Madelyn has been placed with a family whose son is spending a year studying in the United States. To prepare for her year abroad, she has been emailing the family and working on her Italian.

Madelyn has played piano since she was 11 years old and has achieved the level of Superior Plus for her playing through the American College of Musicians/National Guild of Piano Teachers.

In addition to playing piano, Madelyn has been a member of the track team since seventh grade. Her events are the high jump and the 400-meter run.

Upon returning to the United States in 2017, Madelyn intends to attend college on the west coast, where she will major in marine biology.

Service to community and country is in Travis Hodes’s blood. Four years ago, he began following his father’s footsteps

by becoming a volunteer firefighter with New Hanover Volunteer Fire and Rescue, and he is currently studying to become an EMT. Travis appreciates the support he receives from his fellow firefighters, acknowledging that they push him to his limits to help him grow.

At Boyertown Area High School, Travis was a proud member of the Naval Junior ROTC for four years. He intends to continue this service with either the Army or the Marines; he will decide by September. If he decides to join the Army, he would like to be a combat medic and eventually a career firefighter/EMT.

Outside of school and his volunteer service, Travis enjoys hiking, hunting, and fly fishing.

Sarah Weber is fascinated by the things we can’t figure out, such as black holes and wormholes. It is this fascination that has fueled her goal of becoming an astrophysicist. She dreams of working for NASA or the European Space Agency.

To reach her goal, Sarah has mapped out a path that begins with attending Montgomery County Community College for a year. She wants to take a year to get settled into college and earn credits at a lower cost. Upon completing her first year, Sarah plans to transfer to a four-year school and eventually pursue graduate degrees. She hopes to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Sarah would like to thank her astronomy teacher, Mr. Peter Detterline, for supporting her as she explored astrophysics and for assisting her with an application to NASA’s internship program (fingers crossed!).

During her junior year, Sarah attended the National Congress for Future Scientists and Technologists, where she became a member of the Torch and Laurel Society.

At Boyertown Area High School, Sarah served as president of the Interact Club and was a member of Pride Club, Discuss Club, and the stage crew.

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Boyertown Bears are Always up for a ChallengeThis year Boyertown Area School District hosted the 2016 Bear Challenge, a full-day event that invited 75 students from across the District to participate in exciting activities, promoting healthy competition and socializing among friends.

The day began with a parade of athletes, with representatives from each school proudly displaying custom-made banners as they made their grand entrance. After the parade, the athletes were divided into smaller groups so that they could move between the activity stations.

With everything from obstacle courses to soccer kicks, the Bear Challenge athletes could choose from a wide variety of activities that covered each level of physical ability and included face painting, a bean-bag toss, and bike riding on adaptive tricycles. Each athlete was accompanied by a student-volunteer known as a Bear Challenge Buddy. The buddies provided support and encouragement as the brave athletes completed each activity.

“The Bear Challenge is a huge event for our District. It is a culmination of months of training for our athletes,” said Ms. Eydie Bennett, Boyertown Area School District’s physical therapist. “All of our athletes are winners and all left with a rubber bracelet and custom T-shirt designed by our very own Boyertown Area Senior High students.”

The enthusiasm of the athletes lit up the entire room. Throughout the day, athletes, buddies, and spectators enjoyed great music, snacks and beverages, and exciting activities. The upbeat environment inspired impromptu dance contests, funny photos, and lifelong memories. It was a day that will surely not be forgotten.

“The 2016 Bear Challenge was a truly inspired event, providing opportunities for all students to enjoy a little friendly competition,” Ms. Bennett said with a smile.

Ben Feight, who attends Colebrookdale Elementary School, had a great time

participating in the adaptive tricycle activity at the Bear Challenge.

Science Comes Alive at Gilbertsville elementary School’s Sixth Grade Science Fair

“I am so excited!” said sixth grade student Josh Leshinskie, as he eagerly waited to participate in Gilbertsville Elementary School’s Sixth Grade Science Fair.

In May, Josh and his peers experienced the fun and excitement science has to offer. Designed to inspire and challenge, the annual science fair teaches students more than the steps of the scientific process; it invites students to solve problems, persist through difficulties, work with family members, and see how science exists in the real world.

Students learned these essentials skills during three months of hard work and dedication to their science-fair projects. Students could choose to conduct a controlled experiment, explore a scientific principle, or create an innovative invention, which they would then present to a panel of judges at the science fair. Students were also required to complete a lab report, a research paper, and a display board.

Each year, the science fair is judged by Boyertown Area Senior High School students. This year,

students from Ms. Susan Cassidy’s AP Physics class had the honor of judging the sixth graders on their lab reports, research papers, scientific method, and presentation skills. These judges represent the best and brightest of Boyertown Area Senior High School students.

Gilbertsville Elementary School believes that it is an invaluable experience for high school students to judge the science fair: It gives the older students a tangible way to see how their science education has progressed over the years. It is also a wonderful way for the high school students to serve as role models.

The winners included:

Mrs. Joan Sartor and Mrs. Margaret Diasio’s classes• First place: Greta Freed, for her project “The

Rainbow Connection”• Second place: Sarah Drakas• Third place: Matt Selders• Honorable Mention: Natalie Rodriguez

Josh Leshinskie had a great time showcasing his entry in this year’s science fair.

Mr. David Bergen and Mrs. Jessica Weber’s classes• First place: Amelia Pheil for her project,

“Sweet Effects”• Second place: Cole Kratz • Third place: Mackenzie Kelly• Honorable Mention: Morgan Anders

taking top Honors at reading OlympicsThis May, Gilbertsville Elementary School and Earl Elementary School students competed in the 2016 Berks County Reading Olympics. Both schools were awarded top honors among the 54 competing teams.

Mrs. Melissa Gramp, Gilbertsville Elementary School’s librarian and coordinator of the Read-ing Olympics teams, is proud of her students’ dedication and teamwork. This year, Gilbertsville Elementary School had two teams of 17 students each, under the team name “The Next Chapter.” Both teams finished in the first tier, earning blue ribbons for their accomplishments.

“The Reading Olympics is designed to help stu-dents develop better reading comprehension and vocabulary skills,” said Mrs. Gramp. “Throughout the course of the school year, students also learn critical teamwork, organizational, and time-man-agement skills that will continue to benefit them for years to come.”

Dr. Tracey Gaul, Earl Elementary School’s reading specialist and coordinator of her school’s Read-

ing Olympics teams, is also proud of her students’ efforts. This year, Earl Elementary School had two teams of eight students, affectionately named “Wild Things” and “Queen Readers.” Both teams finished in the first and second tiers of the competition, bringing home blue and red ribbons.

“There is no better way to become a good reader than to read, read, read, and that is exactly what the Reading Olympics competition encourages kids to do,” explained Dr. Gaul. “The kids spend nearly a year preparing for the competition, immersed in fantastic literature.”

Reading Olympics is a trivia-based competition in which teams of dedicated students read 45 books throughout the school year. In addition to helping students develop a habit of daily reading for pleasure, the Reading Olympics provides students with the opportunity to have interactive discussions with their peers on the content of the books. The competition is meant to celebrate reading and promote teamwork and collaboration.

At the beginning of each year, all interested students are placed into Reading Olympics teams. Then

students are presented with a list of 45 books that each team must collectively read. Students read the books at home or during designated reading times during the school day. Book choices range from classics, such as Stuart Little by E.B. White, to new bestsellers, such as Shakespeare’s Secret by Elise Broach. Multiple students from each team can read the same books, or they can divide the list up and become experts on specific books. Students are encouraged to work together in order to read all 45 books as a team. Teams are led by captains who coordinate book assignments and are respon-sible for answering or delegating teammates to answer questions during competition.

This year, the teams from Gilbertsville Elemen-tary School and Earl Elementary School traveled to Fleetwood Middle School to compete in the Reading Olympics. During the competition, students answered 20 reading-comprehension questions based on the assigned reading list. The competing teams accumulated points for every correct answer during three rounds of questioning. Volunteers from area schools served as moderators and scorekeepers.

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High School Students enjoy Job Shadow DayThis year, ten Boyertown Area Senior High School students participated in KenCrest Employnet’s 2016 Job Shadow Day. The event was sponsored by the Citizens Charitable Foundation, which has supported it since 2004. The program provides opportunities for high school students from special education classes to explore the skills that are needed in the workplace.

Through this program, Boyertown Area Senior High School students were invited to spend a day at Target assisting skilled mentors and learning hands-on job skills. Throughout the day, Target mentors introduced students to roles such as customer-service representative, cashier, stock person, and expiration-date specialist. After a few hours of on-the-job training, students and their

mentors enjoyed a lunch provided by Target. After lunch, the students were quick to start working again, determined to learn all they could in one day.

“The goal of the District’s special education program is to equip students with skills that will enable them to succeed in a changing world,” explained work-study and intern-ship coordinator Mrs. Natalie Warren. “I am so thankful that we can provide these programs, at no cost to the District, for our students. They truly enjoyed themselves while learning essential job skills.”

District introduces New Summer Lunch ProgramJust as learning does not end when school lets out, neither does the need for good nutrition. This summer, Boyertown Area School District is excited to provide an opportunity for all students to have access to free nutritional lunches as part of the District’s new Summer Lunch Program.

Recognizing that the needs of students are increasing, the Boyertown Area School District’s Summer Lunch Program will provide free nutritional lunches to all school-aged students

Monday through Friday at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church located at 45 North Reading Avenue in Boyertown. All lunches will be prepared by the District’s food services staff.

Students enrolled in Boyertown and Colebrookdale elementary schools’ Summer Intervention Programs will have coordinated transportation to and from the Summer Lunch Program, and will also take part in a fun activity before heading home.

“We are excited to provide this needed service

for our students in collaboration with a great community partner, St John’s,” said Boyertown Area School District Assistant Superintendent Mr. Robert Scoboria. “We know that good nutrition is a key factor in our students’ educational development.”

The Summer Lunch Program is expected to serve an average of 75 students per day. This pilot program will run from July 11 to August 5. For more information please visit the District’s website at www.boyertownasd.org.

District earns 11th No Place for Hate DesignationThe Boyertown Area School District is proud to announce that all ten schools in the District have been designated as No Place for Hate schools for the 2015-2016 school year. This marks the District’s 11th designation, naming Boyertown Area School District the longest standing No Place for Hate District in Pennsylvania.

This honorable designation is a culmination of students and staff members collaborating to take a stance against intolerance, appreciate diversity, and create a community of respect. No Place for Hate is an initiative of the Anti-Defamation League that enables schools and organizations to challenge anti-Semitism, racism and bigotry in all forms.

To become a designated No Place for Hate school, each school in the District formed a committee to direct anti-bias initiatives, signed an official No Place for Hate promise, and held at least three activities during the school year aimed at educating students about diversity.

Boyertown Area School District is proud to have earned the designation of a No Place for Hate school bestowed by the Anti-Defamation League every year since the program’s inception in 2005.

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Music education Program receives National recognition The Boyertown Area School District has once again been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants )Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. The District joins 476 districts across the country in receiving this prestigious award in 2016.

The Best Communities Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students. Districts that have been recognized by the NAMM Foundation are often held up as models for other educators looking to boost their own music education programs.

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, District staff answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music-class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with

school officials and reviewed by the Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.

This award recognizes that Boyertown Area School District is leading the way with learning opportunities, as outlined in the new federal education legislation, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The legislation, signed into law in December 2015, replaces the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), which was often criticized for overemphasizing testing while leaving behind subjects such as music. ESSA recommends music and the arts as important elements of a well-rounded education for all children.

“This award confirms what we know about our excellent programs for students in music and related arts,” said District Superintendent Dr. Richard Faidley. “Music education is a key part of the well-rounded experience our students receive.”

As Boyertown Area School District finalizes its 2016–2017 budget, the NAMM Foundation’s Best Communities for Music Education Award and the

implementation of the federal ESSA law bring attention to the importance of keeping music education part of the school’s core education for all students. It also highlights music’s vital role in students’ overall success.

Community music programs have been drawing increased attention because of a landmark study by Northwestern University brain scientists. These researchers found new links between students in community music programs and academic success in subjects such as reading. Beyond the Northwestern study, other reports indicate that learning to play music can boost academic and social skills, such as processing math and learning to cooperate in group settings.

“The Best Community for Music distinction not only recognizes the achievements of the students and staff in the music program in Boyertown, it honors the musical opportunities that are available to the entire Boyertown community,” said Mr. Michael Jordan, Boyertown Area School District’s Lead Teacher for the Arts.

running Program Focuses on Girl PowerThis year, Boyertown Elementary School introduced Girls on the Run, an after-school program designed to help every girl recognize her inner strength.

Girls on the Run inspires girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates running. Over a period of 10 to 12 weeks, girls make new friends, build confidence, and celebrate all that makes them unique while learning about health, body image, and confidence.

Led by Boyertown Elementary School teachers Mrs. Kristi Medvetz, Mrs. Jenna Vogels, and Mrs. Erin Nester, the new program invited girls in third through fifth grades to stay after school twice a week and participate in lessons that encouraged positive emotional, social, mental, and physical development. While the activities varied from week to week, generally the girls started off with an educational lesson, followed by a warm-up exercise before heading outside to run. Careful planning and hard work allowed for the girls to start running 20 minutes per day and eventually increase to running a total of 45 minutes per day. At the end of each meeting, students presented “Energy Awards” to recognize one another for acts

of kindness, determination, and confidence.

Physical activity was carefully woven into the program to inspire an appreciation of fitness and to build habits that lead to a lifetime of health. At the end of the year, the girls participated in the Girls on the Run 5K. This celebratory, noncompetitive event is the culminating experience of the curriculum. Completing this race provided the girls with a tangible understanding of the confidence that comes through accomplishment as well as a framework for setting and achieving life goals.

Mrs. Medvetz, Boyertown Elementary School reading specialist and coach of Girls on the Run, is proud of the 12 students who participated this year.

“It was really fun and inspiring to see the girls

encourage one another throughout the program. I could really see them mature and grow as the season went on,” Mrs. Medvetz said. “The curriculum enabled the coaches to discuss some issues young girls face today. I believe it helped the girls, as well as the coaches, find more positive things about themselves and celebrate one another for who they are.”

Josh the Baby Otter teaches Pool SafetyAs summer break approaches, Boyertown Area School District recognizes the importance of water safety education. This year, the District invited volunteers from the Boyertown Rotary Club to present a water safety program created by the Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation called Josh the Baby Otter.

Josh the Baby Otter is a children’s book as well as an educational program created to help children comprehend and remember the importance of water safety. The story follows a young otter named Josh whose mother teaches him how to float on his back in the water. Josh quickly learns the importance of water safety through his adventures, and is never in or near water without his mother or a buddy. Ultimately, the goal of the Josh the Baby Otter program is to create water safety behavior for all children that will be passed on from generation to generation.

During their visit, the Rotary volunteers read Josh the Baby Otter to multiple kindergarten classes. At the end of the program, the volunteers and the

students participated in a sing-along about water safety and took the Water Safety Pledge. Each student received a copy of the book and a CD that included an audio read of the entire book, a sing-along song, and an audio read of the Water Safety Pledge. To further reinforce water safety, students were also provided with a Josh the Baby Otter coloring and sticker book.

Boyertown Area School District believes that through early childhood education and with the support of parents and guardians, we can teach our students the importance of water safety.