PHS Early College Grads Have 3.48 Average GPA

This year's Early College Program graduates from Pottstown High School.

Blogger's Note: The following was submitted by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

Fifteen Pottstown High School seniors were recognized at the May 21, school board meeting for successfully completing the Dual Enrollment, Early College Program. These fourteen students were accepted in to the program in the fall of their junior year.

The Foundation began this program in the fall of 2014 with 68 students completing the program which provides the funding covering the tuition for up to 30 credits at Montgomery County Community College West Campus. Throughout the past six years the Foundation has provided more than $415,000 in tuition.

In his presentation to the school board, Foundation Executive Director Joe Rusiewicz praised the students for their accomplishments over the past two academic years. “The Class of 2020 earned more than 250 credits with an average grade point average of 3.48.”

“If these students took the same classes at their chosen colleges, they would have spent $379,620 as opposed to the tuition paid by the Foundation of $48.705 at MCCC.” Rusiewicz shared.

All 15 of the students have been accepted into an institution of higher learning. The 2020 Early College Program Class participants are:

• Ka’Wanza Tori Barksdale Hodges who will attend MCCC majoring in Biomedical Life Sciences
• Nayali Cruz enrolled at New York University studying Neuroscience
• Daniel Darden attending Widener University for Psychology
• Dereck Darden also attending Widener University and majoring in Pre-Athletic Training
• Madison Friedman enrolling at Temple University to study Psychology
• Emma Gawles has enrolled at Lycoming College studying Child and Adolescent Psychology
• Andrew Green attending Temple University to study Political Sciences
• Adriana Hayward will attend Gwynedd Mercy University to study Nursing
• Paige Aaliyah Jones plans to attend Temple University for Early Education
• Jorge Mundo will attend Alfred University majoring in Athletic Training
• Crystal Riveria enrolled at Florida Institute of Technology to study Marine Biology
• Megan Robie will attend Ursinus College and plans to study Biology
• Tanner Price Scott enrolled at Dickinson College where he will major in Computer Science and Archeology
• Winni Weng enrolled at Emory University and will major in Biochemistry/Health Administration
• Destiny Williams enrolled at Howard University majoring in International Business

Rusiewicz also indicated that 100 percent of the previous students enrolled in the Early College Program have all enrolled in a college/university with the first two classes achieving their bachelor’s degree. Sixteen current sophomores have been selected for the Cohort VIII class that will begin in the fall of 2020.

About FPE: The mission of the Foundation for Pottstown Education is to raise funds for and support life-changing educational opportunities for the students and teachers in the Pottstown School District promoting the enhancement of our community.

$60K Gift Will Buy Chromebooks for Pottstown Kids

Photo by Evan Brandt

A sign for paper school work packets at Lincoln Elementary School last week may become less needed thanks to a $60,000 donation to help buy Chromebook computers for Pottstown students.

Blogger's Note: The following was submitted by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

The educational playing field for the Pottstown School District just became a little more level, thanks to a donation received by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

The Foundation recently received a $60,000 gift from an anonymous donor in support of purchasing Chromebooks for the Pottstown School District. The Chromebooks would enable students in families who do not currently have access to the devices, the opportunity to work on school enrichment activities online.

After reading an article in the Pottstown Mercury written by Evan Brandt, the donor contacted the Foundation to work out the details for this gift. 

According to the donor:

I recently read the article in the Pottstown Mercury about school districts having to pivot to on-line learning which would leave Pottstown behind. For years, Pottstown has held the dubious title of being one of the most underfunded districts in the state and, as a result, the playing field has always been uneven for students.

At some point, Harrisburg needs to fix our very broken school funding system so that zip code does not determine the level of educational resources for children.

But it struck me that if Pottstown couldn’t find computers for each household now, the students in Pottstown would not be on an uneven playing field — they wouldn’t be on the playing field at all. It is my hope that this donation will help the district’s efforts to get a computer into every home so that Pottstown can implement distance learning through the current crisis.

Joe Rusiewicz, Executive Director of the Foundation has been in contact with District Superintendent, Stephen Rodriguez and Acting Technology Director, Gail Kennedy regarding this generous donation. 

In response to receiving word of this donation, Rodriguez replied: "This crisis has been tough on students, parents, and teachers, but Pottstown Students are getting a 'double whammy' because we are underfunded and don't have the same technology other districts do. But thanks to this generous donation, in combination with other efforts, we are on our way to filling the gap.”

There are approximately 20-25 percent of the students who are in need of these devices. The district is working hard to bridge that gap and be able to provide the Chromebooks to the families in need. 

Rusiewicz reported “we have received many kind contributions which are providing financial assistance to purchase food for our students during this pandemic, and we are extremely thankful. Now, with the closure of all the schools in Pennsylvania for the remainder of the year, another urgent need arises, the need for Chromebooks. Thanks to this donor, a portion of this need is being met, but the need still exists.” 

Anyone who is able to and interested in supporting this drive can send a tax deductible contribution to the Foundation 230 Beech Street Pottstown, PA 19464 or through the Foundation’s website https://foundationpottstowned.org/. 

“Help us continue to level the educational playing field for the Pottstown School District.” Rusiewicz requested.

About FPE: The mission of the Foundation for Pottstown Education is to raise funds for and support life-changing educational opportunities for the students and teachers in the Pottstown School District promoting the enhancement of our community.

Visit www.foundationpottstowned.org for more information about the Foundation for Pottstown Education. You can also follow FPE on Facebook and Twitter.

Free Tickets to Sensory-Friendly Seussical Available

From left, show producer Bob Decker, Casey Fenoglio, Community Wellness Program Manager from the Pottstown Hospital, Aram Eker, Sherri Morret and foundation executive director Joe Rusiewicz. 

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

The Foundation for Pottstown Education recently received funding which will provide free tickets for local students with special needs and their families to attend the first ever Sensory Friendly Performance of the Pottstown School District performance of Suessical the Musical.

The funding is being provided through the generosity of a Community Wellness Grant from the Pottstown Hospital Tower Health, the Pottstown chapter of AMBUCS and Mr. and Mrs. Aram Ecker.

On Thursday, March 5th the Pottstown School District will present a special showing of this year’s musical. This will be a "sensory-friendly" performance that is designed especially for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, sensory sensitivities, or other disabilities. Patrons will enjoy the show together with family and friends in a welcoming, inclusive, and relaxed space. The show will also have an interpreter for individuals with hearing impairments.

Environmental conditions will be modified by maintaining a low-level house lighting in case guests must get up and move around, by eliminating harsh changes in theatrical lighting, through the avoidance of large sound and visual effects, and by the replacement of the 22-piece orchestra with two keyboards. 

House rules will be relaxed so that audience members can freely respond to shows in their own way and without judgment. They will be welcome to move around, get up, sing, or dance.

Tickets may be obtained by contacting Foundation Executive Director Joe Rusiewicz jrusiewicz@pottstownk12.org or by contacting the district’s special education department at 610-970-6625. Tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Casey Fenoglio, community wellness program manager from the Pottstown Hospital Tower Health, stated that “funding this event aligns with the community’s need to improve the health of all of our community members. Partnering with the Foundation and the school district in making this musical accessible to students can help with social inclusion, stress reducing and creating a positive emotional experience.”

Aram Ecker, who is a member of the Pottstown AMBUCS stated that “they are proud to partner with the Foundation as it aligns with our organization’s mission of inspiring people to conquer challenges related to mobility and independence.” Ecker and his wife Donna are longtime supporters of the musical program in the Pottstown School District.

Rusiewicz indicated that when he first heard of this performance for the children of the district, he knew that the Foundation needed to support the program. “I think that this is such a great opportunity to include all of our local students. I applaud Bob Decker, Chris Sperat, the actors and stage crew for making this event happen.”

The district musical is being held on Saturday, Feb. 29 at 7 p.m.; Sunday, March 1 at 2 p.m.;  Friday, March 6 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 7 at 2 p.m.

Tickets for these performances can be purchased on the Pottstown School District’s website.

About FPE: The Foundation for Pottstown Education’s (FPE) mission is to support, promote, sponsor and carry out educational, scientific or charitable activities and objectives within or related to the Pottstown School District. Visit www.foundationpottstowned.org for more information about the Foundation for Pottstown Education. You can also follow FPE on Facebook and Twitter.

LaTanya White-Springfield Has Been Named to the Pottstown High School Alumni Honor Roll

LaTanya White-Springfield

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

On Friday Oct. 18, the Pottstown School District Alumni Honor Roll Committee will induct three alumni in to the District’s Alumni Honor Roll at the 34th annual event.

The Alumni Honor Roll was established in 1986 as a way to recognize outstanding Pottstown High School Alumni who has made significant contributions to their community and profession. 

With the addition of this year’s honorees, 132 alumni will have been recognized with this honor.

The three 2019 honorees represent Pottstown High School Classes of 1953, 1990, and 1999. 

Aram Ecker, chair of the Alumni Honor Roll Committee placed the names of Robert G. Sutton, Leticia J. Santiago and LaTanya White-Springfield as the nominees for this year’s class to the Pottstown School Board on Thursday April 23.

They will be recognized at the Annual Alumni Honor Roll event on Friday Oct. 18. 

 The event will begin with a continental breakfast at the Pottstown High School followed by a tour of the Alumni Gallery. The recognition ceremony will be held during an assembly in the High School’s Stanley Davenport Auditorium. The induction ceremony will be followed by a luncheon at the Brookside Country Club. 

Members of the community as well as all Pottstown High School Alumni are welcome to the event and can purchase tickets for $50 per person which includes admission to all of the events listed above. A portion of the ticket price is tax deductible and will support the Alumni Honor Roll. 

Tickets for the luncheon are on sale and can be reserved by contacting Diane Nash in the Superintendent’s Office 610-970-6601. 

Here is the third profile of this year's alumni honor role nominees.

LaTanya White-Springfield

Representing Pottstown High School Class of 1999 is LaTanya White-Springfield. 

While at Pottstown High School, she participated in the Key/Anchor Club, Student Government, National Honor Society, was the Captain of the Cheerleaders. She was also a four year varsity athlete in track and field where she ranked fourth in Pennsylvania in the 100 meters placing first in PAC and district championships. 

After high school graduation, LaTanya attended Alvernia University and achieving her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology/Addiction Studies. Continuing with her education, LaTanya received her Master’s Degree in Counseling and Educational Psychology from West Chester University and later received her Educational Doctorate from Immaculata University. 

She is currently the Director of Student Services at the Pottstown School District. Among her many civic duties, she is active with the Women’s Center of Montgomery County, a board member for the YWCA and a member of the Council of Negro Women.

When asked to put into words what "Proud to be from Pottstown" means to her, White-Springfield replied:

Pottstown is more than just a town. It is a place that sparks connections and conversations; a setting where relationships are nurtured, families are supported, and adversities are overcome. Our small, but mighty town is enriched with some amazing people, unrecognized heroes, lots of hidden treasures, and enormous amount of pride. So when I think of what Pottstown pride means to me, it means loving hard, sharing laughs, accepting differences, encouraging each other, and standing together to lead the charge for change.

Being inducted in to the Pottstown High School Alumni Honor Roll is a distinguished honor for our alumni. What does this recognition mean to you?

Induction into the PHS Alumni Honor Roll represents many things for me. It represents a sense of accomplishment, especially growing up and being educated among an elite group of talented and educated peers.

It represents a community voice. I am aware that I have not done many extraordinary things that sit high above the efforts of others, but I am grateful to know that my endeavors and positive impact on our community have not gone unnoticed.

Lastly it represents motivation. Beyond communicating appreciation, this level of recognition sends a message, to those who I mentor and others who I try to set examples for, what success looks like. Success is not always fancy cars or big houses, but the lasting imprint you leave on your community. I don't consider this a win for me, but for all my class of '99 alumni.

Her one piece of advice to share with the current students of the Pottstown High School was: "The hardest thing to be is yourself. So when you finally figure out who you are, embrace your uniqueness. Be kind, inspire others, and open your mind to limitless possibilities."

Leticia Santiago Joins PHS Alumni Honor Roll

Leticia Santiago

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.
On Friday Oct. 18, the Pottstown School District Alumni Honor Roll Committee will induct three alumni in to the District’s Alumni Honor Roll at the 34th annual event.

The Alumni Honor Roll was established in 1986 as a way to recognize outstanding Pottstown High School Alumni who has made significant contributions to their community and profession. With the addition of this year’s honorees, 132 alumni will have been recognized with this honor.

The three 2019 honorees represent Pottstown High School Classes of 1953, 1990, and 1999. Aram Ecker, chair of the Alumni Honor Roll Committee placed the names of Robert G. Sutton, Leticia J. Santiago and LaTanya White-Springfield as the nominees for this year’s class to the Pottstown School Board on Thursday April 23, 2019.

They will be recognized at the Annual Alumni Honor Roll event on Oct. 18. 

The event will begin with a continental breakfast at the Pottstown High School followed by a tour of the Alumni Gallery. The recognition ceremony will be held during an assembly in the High School’s Stanley Davenport Auditorium. The induction ceremony will be followed by a luncheon at the Brookside Country Club. 

Members of the community as well as all Pottstown High School Alumni are welcome to the event and can purchase tickets for $50 per person which includes admission to all of the events listed above. A portion of the ticket price is tax deductible and will support the Alumni Honor Roll. 

Tickets for the luncheon are on sale and can be reserved by contacting Diane Nash in the Superintendent’s Office 610-970-6601. 

Here is the second profile of an inductee.

Leticia J. Santiago

Representing the Pottstown High School Class of 1990 is Leticia J. Santiago. While a student at Pottstown High School, she was captain of the twirling squad, basketball cheerleaders and the Lacrosse team. She was also the recipient of the London Leisure Scholarship

After high school Ms. Santiago attended Howard University majoring in Political Sciences. While at Howard University she was awarded the United States Attorney General’s Special Achievement Award while interning in the Department of Justice. 

After receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree, she enrolled in Howard University’s School of Law and received her Juris Doctor Degree in 1997.

Santiago is the Associate Managing Attorney for Travelers. In 2004, she was awarded the Edith Spivack Special Recognition Award and presented this award from New York City Mayor, Micheal Bloomberg. She was also presented the 2013 Staff Counsel Award as well as the 2013 In-synch Service award presented by the CEO of Travelers.

When asked about what the phrase “Proud to be from Pottstown “ meant to her, Ms. Santiago responded: 

"For me, the phrase “Proud to be from Pottstown” represents the gratitude I feel having been born and raised in Pottstown. Pottstown is where the majority of my family resides; it is where I developed my first friendships, all of which are still maintained today; it is the sense of community, in thought and deed, which during my most impressionable years as a child and teenager, provided me with support and encouragement I needed to succeed in life," she said in a press release issued by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

Being inducted in to the Pottstown High School Alumni Honor Roll is a distinguished honor for our alumni. When asked what this recognition means, Santiago replied:

My maternal grandparents had 9 children, all of whom graduated from Pottstown High. The first to graduate, my Aunt Berwindale (Glenn) Whitehurst, graduated in 1951, 68 years ago. My Uncle Gregory Glenn, the youngest, graduated in 1966 (my mother, Melvenna (Glenn) Santiago graduated in 1962). When my Uncle Gregory was set to graduate, the Mercury published an article on June 6, 1966 about the Glenn family entitled “Ninth Member of Glenn Family To Graduate from Pottstown High.” The article, which includes a picture of my grandparents, mother, aunts, and uncles, states “[t]he Glenn family probably created school history for the number of brothers and sisters to graduate from any one area high school.” This is my legacy, which is inextricably intertwined with Pottstown High. I am who I am today, in part, because of the four years I spent at Pottstown High; critical years of self-development and purpose. My heart is full with this extraordinary honor. I am proud to be from Pottstown and I am proud to be a Trojan! 

When asked what one piece of advice that he would give to the current students of the Pottstown High School, Santiago replied: "My advice is to be loving and kind to others, be positive, find your passion; recognize that you have the power and everything within you to succeed. Be confident, listen carefully, seek counsel from trustworthy adults; understand that challenges and difficulties will arise in life – it is your mindset that makes the difference." 

Robert Sutton Joins PHS Alumni Honor Roll

Robert G. Sutton

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

On Friday Oct. 18, the Pottstown School District Alumni Honor Roll Committee will induct three alumni in to the District’s Alumni Honor Roll at the 34th annual event. 

The Alumni Honor Roll was established in 1986 as a way to recognize outstanding Pottstown High School Alumni who has made significant contributions to their community and profession. 

With the addition of this year’s honorees, 132 alumni will have been recognized with this honor.

The three 2019 honorees represent Pottstown High School Classes of 1953, 1990, and 1999. 

Aram Ecker, chair of the Alumni Honor Roll Committee placed the names of Robert G. Sutton, Leticia J. Santiago and LaTanya White-Springfield as the nominees for this year’s class to the Pottstown School Board on Thursday April 23.

They will be recognized at the Annual Alumni Honor Roll event on Friday Oct. 18. The event will begin with a continental breakfast at the Pottstown High School followed by a tour of the Alumni Gallery. 

The recognition ceremony will be held during an assembly in the High School’s Stanley Davenport Auditorium. The induction ceremony will be followed by a luncheon at the Brookside Country Club. 

Members of the community as well as all Pottstown High School Alumni are welcome to the event and can purchase tickets for $50 per person which includes admission to all of the events listed above. A portion of the ticket price is tax deductible and will support the Alumni Honor Roll.

Tickets for the luncheon are on sale and can be reserved by contacting Diane Nash in the Superintendent’s Office 610-970-6601.

Here is the first of three profiles of the honorees.

Robert G. Sutton

Representing the Pottstown High School Class of 1953 is Robert G. Sutton. 

While a student at Pottstown High School, Mr. Sutton participated in football, basketball and track and field, making the first team All Chest-Mont Football Team. He also played in the marching band which took first place in the National Safety Patrol Parade in Washington, DC.

After graduation, Mr. Sutton attended George Washington University on a football scholarship making the all-Academic Southern Conference football team. He majored in Physical Education and furthered his education receiving his Masters of Education in 1963.

Mr. Sutton began his professional career at the Newport Jr. High School in Montgomery County Maryland from 1958-1961 and then moved to Arlington County Virginia teaching at Gunston Jr. High School. 

He taught health and physical education at both schools and coached the basketball and football as well as serving as the Intramural Director in Arlington County.

In 1964 he moved to East Stroudsburg University where he spent 40 years at this institution. Some of his career highlights at ESU include teaching physical education and sports management courses, coaching football and freshman basketball, serving as the Assistant Athletic Director and as the Acting Athletic Director, and as the Director of Physical Education and Athletic Facilities. 

He took a sabbatical leave in 1974-75 to receive his PhD while at the University of Utah. Mr. Sutton took a second sabbatical in July of 1996 to work at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta Georgia.

When asked about what the phrase “Proud to be from Pottstown “ meant to him, Mr. Sutton responded: 

"I am proud to be from Pottstown because of the many fond memories such as:

• Had a loving and supportive family.
• Made lifetime friendships.
• Had teachers and coaches who pushed us to be the best we could be.
• Had the opportunity to be in a variety of school activities.
• Provided me summer employment through my high school and college years.
• Attended dances at the Y.M.C.A.
• Went to the high school proms held at the Jr. High School.
• Provided me with a set of values of hard work and the desire to succeed.

All of the above has helped me to achieve success in my career."

"I am very humbled to have this award bestowed upon me. It is very difficult to express in words what it means to me. I will say it’s one highlight in my life which I won’t forget. Looking over the names of past inductees with fantastic careers and accomplishments, I am much honored to be part of this distinguished group of people," Sutton said in a press release provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education. "Thank you for this recognition."

When asked what one piece of advice that he would give to the current students of the Pottstown High School, Mr. Sutton replied, "my advice is to never say 'No' to an opportunity to experience a new adventure. Always accept the challenge -- take and run with it. Your future success may be achieved from being involved."

He added, "remember -- you can not buy experience."

Feedback and Transparency in Pottstown Schools

Last month, the Pottstown School District asked folks to take a survey about their efforts, their successes and where they could do better.

Last night, Superintendent Stephen Rodriguez gave a brief overview of the results, which will be posted shortly on the district website, if they are not there already.

The purpose of the 30-question survey was "to learn more about current perceptions of the district and our communication efforts. We want to determine how we can improve our communication and interaction with key stakeholders," Rodriguez said when the survey was released.

Among the more interesting results, was the fact that most of those who responded were satisfied with the district's early education offerings "but that seems to fall off in the secondary level, which is something we're going to have to work on," Rodriguez told the board.

He was saddened, Rodriguez said, to find that many in the survey do not believe their tax dollars are spent appropriately, although they also strongly approve of the district's advocacy efforts to fully implement the fair funding formula which would add more than $13 million to the district's bottom line each year.

To Stream or Not to Stream

ON another matter that has been brewing with the school board for some months is the question of live-streaming committee meetings on Facebook.

The irony of the fact that some board members were resisting the idea of live-streaming a committee meeting when the very board meeting at which the discussion was itself being live-streamed on Facebook was not lost on all.

Further irony could be found in the fact that having just digested the results of a survey meant to bolster communication with the public, a survey in which their constituents reported that they want more information about the operations of the school district, some members continue to resist doing just that.

Raymond Rose argued that the public deserves transparency from the board.

Kurt Heidel argued that many of those who come to (and watch the livestream of) full board meetings feel confused because the discussion has all occurred at the committees and the votes occur without discussion. "They tell me it seems like we've all made up our minds beforehand," he said.

John Armato, who in addition to being a school board member is also its unpaid director of community relations, took up these theme with a vengeance.

"We ask those people every year for $40 million; they entrust us with about 3,200 of their young people. Tonight we just voted on 16 items by consent and no one watching knows how we reached those decisions," Armato said. "I feel very deeply that we owe them this transparency."

Susan Lawrence said talk at committee meetings is very open and non-structured, including from parents and teachers who attend, but some might not feel as free to speak their minds if they knew the meeting was being live-streamed.

Kim Stilwell took another tack, saying despite the fact that the issue first came up in a public relations committee meeting; and was discussed by the full board at their July workshop meeting, that "not everyone has had their say."

This patently ridiculous claim was based on the fact that the issue had never officially appeared on a committee meeting agenda. "I believe strongly in the committee system," said Stilwell.

Well, she got what she wanted. 

With Community Relations Committee Chairwoman Katina Bearden saying she supports the move, but only wants the board to do its "due diligence" in adopting rules for the livestreams, the matter was tabled to her committee for further discussion.

Heidel, who chairs the Finance and Facilities Committee, said he will put the matter on his committee's agenda as well and pursue live-streaming that committee, even if the board ultimately decides against livestreaming the others.

And with that, here are the Tweets from the meeting:

Surveys and Live-Streams

Strunk to Head Education Foundation Fund Drive

Frank Strunk

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

The Foundation for Pottstown Education is pleased to announce that Frank Strunk has been appointed as the Chair of their Annual Support Campaign. 

Strunk is a Senior Vice President and Relationship Manager for Tompkins VIST Bank working out of the Pottstown branch.

He has spent the past 46 years in the banking business in the Pottstown and Boyertown area. Prior to Tompkins VIST, he worked for the former National Penn Bank.

He is married to Pam and together raised three children, and enjoys their six grandchildren. 

Strunk served four years in the Air Force with service in Vietnam in 1966-1967. He has been involved in the community as President of Vietnam Veterans Chapter 565, Pottstown, Treasurer of Pottstown Area Veterans Memorial, member of VFW, Pottsgrove American Legion plus member, past President of Pottstown Rotary Club and Board member of Tri-County Area Chamber of Commerce

The Annual Support Campaign is the Foundation’s fund raising drive to solicit funds which will financially support programs for the students and teachers in the Pottstown School District. This is the Foundation’s second annual campaign with a goal of raising $75,000.

Tracey Brown, President of the Foundation states “supporting the Foundation’s Annual Support Campaign is making an investment in our children, their education, and their future. We are committed to providing the children of Pottstown with opportunities where they can explore, learn, and achieve. Money raised in this campaign will make a significant impact in the amount of and types of educational opportunities the Foundation can support this year.”

During the previous year, the Foundation awarded more than $181,000 in support of programs and scholarships for the district students and teachers. 

Programs include: Early College Program which enables high school juniors and senior who apply for the program, the opportunity to take up to 30 credits at the West Campus of Montgomery County Community College, field trips to various locations which enhance the classroom learning environment, environmental education programs, assistance with the Advanced Placement testing fees, as well as funding more than $31,000 in scholarships for all grade levels.

The Annual Support Campaign has been developed to ensure not only continuation of the programs already funded but in the hopes of creating more funding reaching all students in the school district. This campaign is part of the recent Strategic Plan that was developed with the assistance of more than 25 community leaders.

Strunk and the Foundation’s Executive Director Joe Rusiewicz, are currently working with the board and community leaders to develop the Executive Committee for the campaign.

About FPE: The Foundation for Pottstown Education’s (FPE) mission is to support, promote, sponsor and carry out educational, scientific or charitable activities and objectives within or related to the Pottstown School District. Visit www.foundationpottstowned.org for more information about the Foundation for Pottstown Education. 

PHS Alumni Honor Roll Profile: Heather M. Thiret

Major Heather M. Thiret

Blogger's Note: On Friday Oct.19, 2018, the Pottstown School District Alumni Honor Roll Committee will induct four alumni in to the District’s Alumni Honor Roll at the 33rd annual event. In preparation, The Digital Notebook will present profiles of all four inductees as provided and prepared by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

Today we present Heather Thiret, representing the Class of 1991.

Representing the Pottstown High School Class of 1991 is Heather M. Thiret. 

Heather earned her Bachelor of Science degree from West Chester University and holds a PA Teaching Certificate. She is currently working on her Master’s Degree in Leadership through Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. 

She entered the service in 1992 and has spent 25 years, 10 as enlisted and 15 as an officer. Heather holds a ranking of Major in the US Army and has received several honors including a Bronze Star Medal. 

She has also served as a TAC Officer/Instructor at the OCS Officer Candidate School Academy from 2010-2013. She is currently the Officer In Charge of Military Ascensions Vital to National Interest Program in Fort Belvoir, VA. Heather has been active in the Veterans Outreach Program/Homeless Vets and the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America.

In response to the question, what has graduating from Pottstown High School meant to you? Heather responded that "graduation from PSHS itself is an accomplishment and benchmark in life. However, graduating from Pottstown High School was bittersweet in the fact that it was "sweet" to be graduating and equipped with the skills and knowledge bestowed upon me from my teachers and coaches at PSHS, and "bitter" to say goodbye to the same mentorship, guidance and trusting relationships I had to rely on while attending PSHS. I felt confident in my capabilities and self-worth I developed from my four years at PSHS."

When asked about what the phrase “Proud to be from Pottstown “mean to her, Heather stated, “I am proud to be from Pottstown, because these are my roots. The familiar places and faces that continue to be part of my life even today, almost 25 years after I left. It is always still good to come 'home.' Hometown, isn't just a place, it is a feeling...from Ice House Deli, Manatawny Park, Brunish's, Frankie and Johnny's, the Elks, the Carousel, Pottstown Trojans, The Mercury, High St, Waterfront Park, Sunnybrook Ballroom, the community people(alumni) and feeling etc...it's the familiar places and faces that continue to make me proud to come home and call Pottstown home.”

In receiving this honor, Heather stated “I am truly blessed and honored to been chosen to represent what thousands of Pottstown alumni who came before me had done. We all attended PSHS, graduated and went on to do great things in this world, change the world and make it a better place. I accept this award on behalf of all those who came before me with the same drive and motivation that PSHS became the catalyst for and ensured they were ready to take on the world. Graduates did not need to be doctors, lawyers, politicians, CEO's, nor famous to be successful alumni...they are also mothers, fathers, coaches, teachers, mentors, community advocates, military, police officers, fire fighters, EMS, nurses, factory workers, secretaries, borough service workers, reporters, writers, artists, and thousands of unmentioned professions and occupations that whether nominated for this honor or not, are success stories of PSHS and are just as proud to be from Pottstown and a product of PSHS as me.”

One piece of advice that Heather would give to high school students, is "ask and listen. Lead and follow. Take advantage of all the education, mentorship and advice you can receive while at PSHS. This is only the beginning of you becoming the type of person you want to be in life. Make mistakes, and learn from them. Don't be afraid to learn from other people’s mistakes, they have less pain and anguish than our own, but the same lesson is learned. If you don't already, thank your parents, coaches, teachers and mentors...come back and visit. I didn't thank them enough while I was there and truly did not appreciate them until after I left. Walking across the stage and accepting that diploma, is also an acceptance of your future and life, for it will be whatever you put into it, and whatever you choose to make it. Make it yours, and make it the best life as the best person you can be. You are a Pottstown Trojan, even after you leave, that will never leave you."

The four honorees will be recognized at the Annual Alumni Honor Roll event on Friday Oct. 19, 2018. The event will begin with a continental breakfast at the Pottstown High School followed by a tour of the Alumni Gallery. The recognition ceremony will be held during an assembly in the High School’s Stanley Davenport Auditorium. 

 The induction ceremony will be followed by a luncheon at the Brookside Country Club. Members of the community as well as all Pottstown High School Alumni are welcome to the event and can purchase tickets for $50 per person which includes admission to all of the events listed above. A portion of the ticket price is tax deductible. Tickets for the luncheon are on sale and can be reserved by contacting Diane Nash in the Superintendent’s Office 610-970-6601.

PHS Alumni Honor Roll Profile: James Bush

James Bush.

Blogger's Note: On Friday Oct.19, 2018, the Pottstown School District Alumni Honor Roll Committee will induct four alumni in to the District’s Alumni Honor Roll at the 33rd annual event. In preparation, The Digital Notebook will present profiles of all four inductees as provided and prepared by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

Today we present James Bush, Class of 1962.

Representing the Pottstown High School Class of 1962 is James R. Bush. After graduation in 1962, Jim served in the U.S. Army Reserves and attended Peirce Junior College earning his Associates Degree in Accounting in 1970. Jim then earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Ursinus College. From May of 1964 through September 1968, he worked as a Commercial Loan Officer and Assistant Branch Manager for the Philadelphia National Bank in Pottstown. Then in 1980, Jim returned to his Alma Mater becoming the Supervisor of Accounting/Assistant Business Administrator before being hired as the Business Administrator/Board Secretary in 1968 until his retirement in June of 2006.

When asked about what the phrase “Proud to be from Pottstown “ mean to him, Jim responded
“I have been involved with the Pottstown School District for fifty ( 50 ) Years of my life ( 12 years as a student, 38 years as an employee 1968-2006). The Pottstown School has been and continues to be a leader in education in the area".

He lists several examples:

-- The establishment of a Foundation for Pottstown Education ( 1985 ) to help raise private funds for student scholarships and some programs unable to be funded through the school district

-- Early Childhood Education: The school district started a Four Year Kindergarten program in the early “90’s “and a full day kindergarten program in the early 2000’s. Today the Pottstown School through its Early Childhood program (PEAK) is a statewide model.

-- Senior Citizen Program: In 1995 the school district started the Golden Sage Program which allows senior citizens to volunteer at the school district and receive a credit up to $500 on their property taxes.

-- Dual Enrollment Program: In the early 2000’s, the school district and the Montgomery County Community College established a program to allow students to attend the college during their high school years and receive College credit. Initially this was funded with local and state funds. The Foundation for Pottstown Education now funds the Dual Enrollment Program.

The school district provides excellent education and co-curricular programs staffed by excellent teachers that provide opportunities for students to be successful. Pottstown School District students excel in academics and receive recognition for their accomplishments. Pottstown students receive accolades for their involvement in community service programs.

“YES! I am proud to be a graduate of the Pottstown School District,” he said.

This recognition has special meaning to Bush.

“ I am honored to be recognized by the School District as a member of the Alumni Honor Roll. Since its establishment in 1986, there have been 125 graduates who have been inducted to the Alumni Honor Roll. When I look at accomplishments of those previous and current inductees, I am proud to be included as a member of the Alumni Honor Roll."

When asked what one piece of advice that he would give to the current students of the Pottstown High School, Jim responded “Set Your Goals. Challenge yourself to meet those goals. Whatever career path you decide to follow, always give maximum effort.”

The Alumni Honor Roll was established in 1986 as a way to recognize outstanding Pottstown High School Alumni who has made significant contributions to their community and profession. With the addition of this year’s honorees, 129 alumni will have been recognized with this honor.

The four 2018 honorees represent Pottstown High School Classes of 1962, 1979, 1982 and 1991. Aram Ecker, chair of the Alumni Honor Roll Committee placed the names of James R. Bush, Theresa Rinaldi, Jonathan C. Corson and Heather M. Thiret as the nominees for this year’s class to the Pottstown School Board on Thursday April 19, 2018.

They will be recognized at the Annual Alumni Honor Roll event on Friday Oct. 19, 2018. The event will begin with a continental breakfast at the Pottstown High School followed by a tour of the Alumni Gallery. The recognition ceremony will be held during an assembly in the High School’s Stanley Davenport Auditorium. The induction ceremony will be followed by a luncheon at the Brookside Country Club. Members of the community as well as all Pottstown High School Alumni are welcome to the event and can purchase tickets for $50 per person which includes admission to all of the events listed above. A portion of the ticket price is tax deductible. Tickets for the luncheon are on sale and can be reserved by contacting Diane Nash in the Superintendent’s Office 610-970-6601.

Members of the community as well as all Pottstown High School Alumni are welcome to the event and can purchase tickets for $50 per person which includes admission to all of the day’s events. A portion of the ticket price is tax deductible. Tickets for the luncheon are on sale and can be reserved by contacting Diane Nash in the Superintendent’s Office 610-970-6601.

Pottstown Pride Gets You Free Baseball Tickets

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by a coalition of Pottstown non-profit organizations.

Local residents, plus anyone who wants to show pride in Pottstown, are invited to a night of baseball, local tributes and fireworks at the Reading Fightin Phils FirstEnergy Stadium on Friday night, June 15.

The event, dubbed Pottstown Proud Night, is sponsored by four local non-profits to promote the value of working together for the Pottstown Area community.

Three hundred FREE tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each ticket will come with $2 in food vouchers to be used at the game. Transportation is available for those who need it. However, bus seats are limited and may fill up quickly with requests.

Special events at the game will include Ceremonial First Pitch by a Pottstown Teacher of the Year, Community Champion honors for student Citizenship Award winners, and local participants in the holding of the American flag for the playing of the national anthem.

Other festivities at the game include a pre-game concert by Downingtown School of Rock and post-game fireworks in the stadium, along with appearances by Fightin mascots.

The event is being sponsored by the Foundation for Pottstown Education, Pottstown Works at The Salvation Army of Pottstown, Pottstown Early Action Kindergarten, and TriCounty Community Network.

Ticket printing and food vouchers were donated by Complete Graphics Inc., 38 E. High St.

“Our goal in planning this event was to demonstrate that local nonprofits working together not only can benefit the people we serve, but also can display the pride of this town,” said Nancy March, director of Pottstown Works. “We want to offer families a night of fun to start the summer, while proving the value of teamwork among non-profit organizations.”

“We often see non-profit organizations working for the same goals but not necessarily working together,” said Holly Parker, executive director of TCN. “This project gave us a chance to plan one event that we could share in and practice collaboration.”

“This is a good opportunity for our school families,” said Joe Rusiewicz, executive director of the Foundation for Pottstown Education. “It’s also giving us an opportunity to honor Teacher of the Year winners and our outstanding student citizens.”

“We saw this as a great opportunity for our PEAK families to connect with each other and hope they will come out,” added Valerie Jackson, PEAK coordinator. “We urge everyone coming to the game to wear blue and white or their Trojan gear to show the world what Pottstown pride looks like.”

To get tickets, come to the Pottstown School District administration building, 230 Beech St. (use front entrance) from 3 to 5:30 p.m. on May 30 to June 1, or June 4-6. Ticket and food vouchers will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no limit to the number of tickets per family.

Game time is 7:15 p.m. against the Akron Rubber Ducks. The FirstEnergy Stadium plaza opens at 5 p.m. There is ample, free parking at the stadium, 1900 Centre Ave., Reading.

A bus donated by the Pottstown Area Health and Wellness Foundation will provide transportation for families in need who sign up early.

PHS Alum Urged to Aid With New Directory

About time for a new one don't you think?

Blogger's Note: The Following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

The Foundation for Pottstown Education is currently working with Publishing Concepts Inc (PCI) on updating the Alumni Directory that was last published in 2009. 

Postcards and email to Pottstown High School Alumni were sent beginning Friday.

The Foundation would like to encourage all alumni to respond to the mailings. 

While there will be options to purchase the directories in hard copies or electronic versions, no purchases are required. 

If you are a Pottstown High School alumni, 

look for this notice in your mailbox

The Foundation does not receive any proceeds from this publication, but will receive copies of the final book in both forms. 

The information from this book can be helpful to the classes trying to contact their classmates and the Foundation will be happy to assist with this process.

The timeline for this process is as follows:

• Feb. 9: mailings to Alumni begin
• Feb. 12: inbound phone lines to PCI will be open
• Aug. 10: last day to update contact information
• Dec.: final publication will be shipped

If any alumni do not receive the mailings, they are encouraged to contact the Foundation Office 610-970-6616. The Foundation Office hours typically are Mondays through Fridays 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.. 

The office is closed on any days that the Pottstown School District is not open. During closed times, leave a message which will be returned as soon as possible.

Gala Fundraiser Features a 'Little Mermaid'

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

The Foundation for Pottstown Education in conjunction with the Pottstown School District Musical announces the 2018 Gala to be held on Saturday March 3, 2018.

This is the third annual event which raises financial support benefiting the students of the Pottstown School District.

The highlight of the event is this year’s District Wide Musical, The Little Mermaid. Beside the musical, there will be a dinner catered by Booster’s BBQ, a silent auction and pre-dinner social time with “mocktails”. Visits from the cast also highlight the dinner along with socializing and networking throughout the evening.

A silent auction will be held during the social hour and dinner. Various local businesses and community members have donated special items for this auction. All proceeds raised from the gala and auction benefit the Foundation’s grant programs which help it promote opportunities for the children of the Pottstown School District. 

A portion of the gala ticket price also benefits the District wide Musical.

Tickets for the Gala are $60 per person and include the dinner and tickets for the musical. 

To purchase tickets, please contact the Foundation Office at 610-970- 6616 or email to jrusiewicz@pottstownk12.org.

Event sponsorships are also still available.

About FPE: The Foundation for Pottstown Education’s (FPE) mission is to support, promote, sponsor and carry out educational, scientific or charitable activities and objectives within or related to the Pottstown School District. Visit www.foundationpottstowned.org for more information about the Foundation for Pottstown Education. You can also follow FPE on Facebook and Twitter.

3rd Teacher Buys New Home in Pottstown With Foundation for Pottstown Education Program

Rupert Elementary teacher Jamie Fazekas in front of her new home.

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

Rupert Elementary Third Grade Teacher, Jamie Fazekas is the third Pottstown School District Employee who has been awarded a $10,000 forgivable loan through the Foundation for Pottstown Education Residency Program. 

This program provides eligible applicants who work for the Pottstown School District, up to $10,000 in the form of a forgivable loan. The funds can be used for closing costs, down payments, or other expenses directly related to the purchase of property determined to be eligible for the program.

Fazekas applied for this loan in November and was approved before Thanksgiving. She closed on her new home the first week of December. This is the first home purchase for her and she is extremely happy with her new residence.

The $10,000 loan will have 20 percent forgiven each year in which the homeowner remains an employee of the Pottstown School District and lives in the residence as their primary home. 

After five years, the loan is completely forgiven. Should the employee move or leave the Pottstown School District, the remaining balance of the loan is then due to be before paid back to the Foundation.

Congratulations, Jamie and welcome home.

Visit www.foundationpottstowned.org for more information about the Foundation for Pottstown Education as well as following FPE on Facebook and Twitter.

Tax Credit Helps Bank Support Pottstown Schools

From left, Strunk Senior Vice President Tompkins VIST Bank, Foundation of Pottstown Education Executive Director, Joe Rusiewicz and Joe Cavallo, Assistant Vice President Business Development Officer Tompkins VIST Bank.

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

Tompkins VIST Bank recently supported the work of the Foundation for Pottstown Education through funding in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC). 

The check for $3,000 will support the STEM Program in the Pottstown School District.

EITC is a program providing tax credits to eligible businesses contributing to a Scholarship Organization, an Educational Improvement Organization, and/or a Pre-Kindergarten Scholarship Organization. Businesses, as well as organizations receiving the EITC funding, must apply and be approved by the Department of Community and Economic Development to participate. The Foundation is an approved Educational Improvement Organization.

Tompkins VIST President and CEO, Scott Gruber stated that the bank is proud to support organizations in our communities through the EITC Program. He also thanked the Foundation for its partnership and the work that it does to improve our communities.

This gift was presented to the Foundation’s Executive Director, Joe Rusiewicz by Frank Strunk, Senior Vice President Commercial Banking Relationship Manager and Joe Cavallo Assistant Vice President Business Development Officer. The donation is Tompkins VIST Banks’ gift to the Foundation’s Business Division Annual Support Campaign.

For further information on the Foundation for Pottstown Education please contact Joe Rusiewicz 610-970-6616 or jrusiewicz@pottstownsd.org.

1st Presbyterian/Porter Fund Supports Early College Program for Students at Pottstown High School

From left, Carter Lester, Kerry Pidcock-Lester, David Allebach and Joe Rusiewicz

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

The Foundation for Pottstown Education’s Early College Program was a recipient of $5,610 from The
First Presbyterian Church in Pottstown Mary N. Porter Designated Fund of the Community Foundation of Broward County. 

Co-Pastors Karen Pidcock-Lester and W. Carter Lester along with parishioner, David Allebach were on hand recently to award the Foundation’s Executive Director, Joe Rusiewicz the funding.

This funding was approved by the Church’s Porter-Broward Task Force and enables the Foundation to support two Pottstown High School students participation in the Early College Program. 

Currently, the Foundation supports 28 Pottstown Juniors and Seniors the ability to take college level courses at Montgomery County Community College, the majority of which receive full tuition reimbursement while the others receive 50% reimbursement.

These students are selected by the Foundation in conjunction with the Pottstown High School based on academic and co-curricular activity. Students who have earned a 90% or higher grade point average after the first half of their sophomore year are invited to apply for this program. 

Those selected can earn up to 30 credits, completing their college freshman year at the time of their high school graduation.

The Foundation for Pottstown Education is one of the local non-profits that are invited and ultimately receive funding from the First Presbyterian Church Porter-Broward Task Force.

About FPE: The Foundation for Pottstown Education’s (FPE) mission is to support, promote, sponsor and carry out educational, scientific or charitable activities and objectives within or related to the
Pottstown School District. Visit www.foundationpottstowned.org for more information about the
Foundation for Pottstown Education. You can also follow FPE on Facebook and Twitter.

Foundations Help Rupert Students Learn the Ropes

Submitted Photo

From left, Chuck Gulati, students Sam Heater, Patience Cole, Austin Hampton, Cianne Wells and Rupert Elementary Principal Matt Moyer

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

Through a donation from the Gulati Family Foundation to the Foundation for Pottstown Education, the Rupert Fourth Grade visited the brand new low ropes course at Althouse Arboretum in Upper Pottsgrove.

The low ropes course is designed to encourage leadership, expand communication skills, promote self-discovery, and increase self-esteem. 

The students were given a variety of challenges at different obstacles on the course. Each required team work, creative thinking, and collaboration to achieve success. The students were broken up into groups of 8-12 students. Each group had a facilitator who explained the challenge, and assisted the students. The students were required to work together to determine a plan, and then take their plan to action. After each activity the groups debriefed on what was successful, and what areas they felt they could improve upon.

The fourth grade teachers, Allen Ferster, Nicole Leh, and Nicole Valenti said, the ropes coarse provided students with an invaluable experience for breaking down barriers, teamwork, and learning to trust each other in academic and non-academic settings.

Chuck Gulati, member of the Gulati Family Foundation Board and President of Gatsby’s and Stokesay Castle stated that this project fit with their Foundation’s mission of giving to educational institutions at every level, from early childhood through graduate school. When he found out the need for funding of field trips, Gulati indicated his desire to help and placed the request to the Foundation Board for approval.

Rupert Elementary Principal, Matt Moyer had made the request of the Foundation for Pottstown Education to enable the fourth grade students to take this course. Moyer stated that the low ropes course would meet the requirements of the STEAM funding provided by the Education Foundation.

The fourth grade students sent both of the foundations handmade cards of thanks, Many of the students indicated that they learned how to listen and communicate with their friends, how to trust others, and that they had fun.

The Foundation for Pottstown Education’s (FPE) mission is to support, promote, sponsor and carry out educational, scientific or charitable activities and objectives within or related to the Pottstown School District. 

Visit www.foundationpottstowned.org for more information about the Foundation for Pottstown Education. You can also follow FPE on Facebook and Twitter.

Education Foundation Announces Annual Campaign

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

For the first time in the 33-year history of the Foundation for Pottstown Education, an Annual Support Campaign is being formalized. The goal of this year’s campaign is to not only raise $75,000 but also to raise awareness of what the Foundation does for the students of the Pottstown School District.

“Supporting the Foundation’s Annual Support Campaign is making an investment in our children, their education, and their future. We are committed to providing the children of Pottstown with opportunities where they can explore, learn, and achieve," said Tracey Brown, President of the Foundation. 

"Money raised in this campaign will make a significant impact in the amount of and types of educational opportunities the Foundation can support this year,” Brown said.

The Foundation’s ission is to support, promote, sponsor and carry out educational, scientific or charitable activities and objectives within or related to the Pottstown School District. During the past several years the Foundation has funded requests that are submitted by the School District teachers and principals.

Recently more than 90 high school students received partial funding to take the yearly AP tests after state funding was cut. 

Joe Rusiewicz is executive director of the foundation.

This past spring the Foundation funded half of the tuition fees for the Middle School Environmental Education Club to the Pocono Environmental Education Center after their funding was cut by a grantor. 

Additional funding was provided to elementary students to take a Rope Course developing leadership skills, purchase a robotic system and computer for the high school engineering program as well as paying for tuition fees for 30 juniors and senior in the Early College program who attend the Montgomery County Community College.

The Foundation also provided more than $28,000 in scholarships awarded annually not only to graduating seniors but to the elementary and middle school students who are recognized for outstanding achievement.

The Annual Support Campaign has been developed to ensure not only continuation of the projects already funded but in the hopes of creating more funding reaching all students in the school district. 

This campaign is part of the recent Strategic Plan that was developed with the assistance of more than 25 community leaders.

Joe Rusiewicz, Executive Director of the Foundation for Pottstown Education is working with the board and community leaders to develop the Executive Committee for the campaign. 

Art Green will chair the campaign

Art Green, a former Chemistry teacher and UniServ Representative for the Pennsylvania State Education Association has been recruited to serve as the Campaign Chair. 

Green is well known for many community activities including: Visiting Nurses Association, Fellowship House Farm, as a Secretary of the Spina Bifida Association of the Delaware Valley and as a former President of the Pottstown Regional Public Library, Pottstown Borough Council serving for six years. He was also involved in the Capital Campaign to raise money to build a new structure at St.. Aloysius Church. He completed a full 9-year term, the last 3 years as Chairman of the Board of the Pottstown Area Health and Wellness Foundation, and currently serves on the Board of
Pottstown Hospital.

The campaign is in the quiet phase, the initial phase raising funds internally from the Foundation Board of Directors, the School District and the School District Board of Education. The public phase of the campaign will begin in November with the Alumni, in December with Businesses and the final phase will be held with the public in January and February.

Visit www.foundationpottstowned.org for more information about the Foundation for Pottstown Education as well as following FPE on Facebook and Twitter.

Foundation for Pottstown Education Awarded $90,000 grant from Health and Wellness Foundation

Joe Rusiewicz, executive director of the Foundation for Pottstown Education, left, accepts a $50,000 grant check for "operational support" from David Kraybill, executive director of the Pottstown Area Health and Wellness Foundation.

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

The Foundation for Pottstown Education was recently awarded a two-year grant totaling $90,000 from the Pottstown Area Health and Wellness Foundation. 

This grant is awarded in support of the Education Foundation’s Administrative Operations. A check for $50,000 was presented for year one of the approved grant.

Joe Rusiewicz, the foundation's executive director, stated that he is not only pleased with the acceptance of this grant but also in the working relationship that both Foundations have with each other. 

“The support, not only financially, that the health and wellness foundation gives to us has been tremendous. The staff has always been available to answer questions or to offer advice when needed. I am looking forward to continuing this relationship,” Rusiewicz said.

The foundation recently provided funding towards the Middle School Environmental Education Club’s attendance at the Pocono Environmental Education Center, for the Early College Program, PEAK initiatives, Girls Today Leaders Tomorrow Program, equipment and computers for the Engineering Programs, AP Testing and has approved funding for the Rupert Elementary School Fourth Grade ropes program, as well as working on the Planning Committee for the 2017 Sports Carnival. Previously, 

Previously, the health and wellness foundation has provided funding to the Education Foundation to support Administrative Operations and for fund raising software.

The remainder of the grant, $40,000, will be issued in year two, 2018 contingent on submission and review of the year one report.

About PAHWF: The Pottstown Area Health and Wellness Foundation’s (PAHWF) mission is to enhance the health and wellness of area residents, providing education, funding and programs that motivate people to adopt healthy lifestyles. Visit www.pottstownfoundation.org for more information about the Foundation. Discover Pottstown area’s online community, Mission Healthy
Living, an initiative of PAHWF, to learn and share great information on how to lead a healthier life. You can also follow the Foundation on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest and YouTube.

About FPE: The Foundation for Pottstown Education’s (FPE) mission is to support, promote, sponsor and carry out educational, scientific or charitable activities and objectives within or related to the Pottstown School District. Visit www.foundationpottstowned.org for more information about the Foundation for Pottstown Education. You can also follow FPE on Facebook and Twitter.

New Lights, New Hires and New Pottstown Homes

Photo courtesy of Foundation for Pottstown Education

Lincoln Elementary School Second Grade Teacher Heather Kurtz, stands with Daniel Zipay outside the North Evans Street home where she grew up. She is the first Pottstown teacher to use the $10,000 forgivable loan program to buy a home in the district. And she bought this one from her parents.

It was a quick but action-packed school board meeting Thursday which had some welcome news from the Foundation for Pottstown Education.

Joe Rusiewicz, the foundation director, announced that since the Home Ownership Initiative -- which provides $10,000 forgivable loans to school district employees who buy homes in the borough -- was approved in April six inquiries have been made.

At the end of July, the first of those inquiries was transformed into a house closing when Lincoln Elementary School teacher Heather Kurtz closed on the North Evans Street home once owned by her parents, Ronald and Connie Downie.

"We welcome her home to Pottstown and wish her many happy new memories," Rusiewicz said.

He also announced a new scholarship named after the foundation's second executive director, Myra Forrest, for students who complete the early college program in partnership with the Pottstown campus of Montgomery County Community College, which the foundation funds.

There was, of course, also much excitement about the new stadium lights being erected this week and next at Grigg Memorial Stadium. Board member Polly Weand was thanked for her fund-raising efforts and said the lights represent a symbol of how the town can come together.

Also on the agenda of interest to Weand was a matter to provide a 3 percent pay increase across the board to support workers, building principals and mid-level administrators. She asked that it be sent back to the finance committee which has res in this to for approval "because of the finances in this town."

It remains to be seen Monday if that will happen.

The board will also vote on a bond re-financing expected to save the district $400,000.

And finally, the board will vote on whether to double its annual contribution to the Pottstown Area Industrial Development Inc., from $10,000 to $20,000.

Here are the Tweets from the meeting.