Quakertown Community School District life skills students in grades K-5 had a great time visiting Hellerick’s Family Farm in Plumsteadville. The students, who were paired with members of the high school’s Best Buddies Club, learned social skills and how to navigate in a community setting. Instruction included science and the history of the farm.
“It was delightful for students of all ages and ability levels to learn and socialize in a community setting,” said Carrie Staffieri, Special Education Supervisor (K-6). “The teachers and staff planned a successful day full of fun!”
She said Best Buddies “were a fantastic help” as they socialized with students and helped them feel comfortable.
Best Buddies on the trip were Lucas Shannen, Lily Whalen, Katelyn Landis, Lauren Harwick, Michael Wishingrad, Ava DeFalco, and Kiera Gallagher.
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“I asked everyone in the class collectively who would be interested in helping me with my proposal,” Mary said. “They’re all capable, smart individuals. We spent a ton of Prides and lunches researching greenhouses, diagramming the site, and consulting with teachers. We surveyed everyone and hung posters. Ninety percent of students responded. We received only positive feedback and excitement.”
Mary explained her idea to science teacher John Stoverink, and he agreed to become the club’s advisor. “If Mary hadn’t done all of this work, we wouldn’t have Garden Club,” he said. “It speaks volumes of her character and ability and her tight-knit group of friends.”
Dominic Basile, Mike Richino helped Panthers advance to playoffs
When they got their opportunity, Dominic Basile and Mike Richino helped Panthers to a playoff berth. Read Tom Moore's story here.
Families turn out to inspect insect research project
The work of Stephanie Cucinotta’s seventh-grade students was proudly displayed on the crowded lunchroom tables in an event that illustrated the creativity of young people, their love of learning, and a teacher’s effort to rally a sense of community.
“What a turnout,” she said. “It was an amazing night filled with so many students sharing their hard work with their families.”
Aides in QCSD inspire student success
“It meant the world to me,” Mrs. Honrado said. “It was so special. It made my week.”
Mrs. Honrado is an instructional aide at Quakertown Community High School. And that interaction with football player John Eatherton, who thanked her for “being a positive influence in school and always smiling,” “meant the world to me,” she said.
It’s the type of magic moment aides in the Quakertown Community School District often receive as they make a positive difference in the lives of students, some of whom have a 504 and/or an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
More on how aides make a difference.
Health dangers of vaping, nicotine brought to light
David Fialko, a certified treatment specialist with The Council of Southeast PA, spoke to several Quakertown Community High School health classes about the health effects of vaping and nicotine.
“It tied in with our lesson plans,” Assistant Principal Jason Magditch said. “It’s nice to hear someone with an outside voice who can speak about industry standards and what’s happening in the world outside of school. The kids were receptive.”
Mr. Fialko is an internationally certified prevention specialist and nationally certified tobacco treatment specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the public health care industry. Since 2008, he’s been with The Council, which provides a wide range of services to reduce the impact of addiction. Previously, Mr. Fialko has given presentations to parents of middle and high school students in the District Services Center and the Quakertown Performing Arts Center.
Richland collects nearly 1,000 pounds of food
All-League Field Hockey
Quakertown Community High School's field hockey team finished the season with a 9-5-2 record in the Suburban One League's Liberty Division.
Several players made the all-league team. They include:
First team: Alex Bevan-Xenelis, senior midfielder
Second team: Kiera Gallagher, junior midfielder; and Katelyn Landis, sophomore midfielder
Honorable mention: Natalie Boyd, senior midfielder; Megan Roth, junior defender; Leah Schwalm, sophomore forward; and Julie Pizzi, senior goalie.
Quakertown Community School District
