The Tigers' Pride

In this issue of The Tigers’ Pride, we bring you a variety of achievements and events within our District. Culbertson Elementary is set to launch "Culby's Crew," fostering community and confidence among language arts support students. Loomis Elementary celebrated its 50th day of learning with 1950's themed activities, while Russell Elementary honored veterans with a touching performance and organized a successful Fun Run. Worrall Elementary introduced Kindness and Chess Clubs, promoting goodwill and strategic thinking.

Paxon Hollow Middle School showcased diverse talents in a memorable talent show. Marple Newtown High School received accolades for its commitment to visual arts education, celebrated outstanding student artists, administration, and the comedic play "Puffs." MNHS excelled in various sports, impressive marching band achievements, and Coach Kevin Merchant was named PA State Boys Lacrosse Coach of the Year.

This issue also recognizes our School Board Directors contributions to the MNSD community.

Tina M. Kane, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

For the last four years, Tracy Alberti and Desiree Tomasco have dedicated themselves to shaping the educational journey of our students. Their commitment to excellence, passion for education, and countless hours of devoted service have not gone unnoticed. We extend our sincerest gratitude for their contributions and service.

We welcome three re-elected Board Directors, Matthew J. Bilker, John P. McKenzie, Nicholas J. Reynolds, Sr., as well as two newly elected Board Directors, Dana Altobelli and Lisa Pacell.

Congratulations to Matthew J. Bilker being appointed School Board President and Nicholas V. Siano being appointed Vice President.

The Pennsylvania School Board Association designates January as School Board Recognition Month. During this month, we honor and express gratitude to the dedicated individuals serving as school board directors. Our unpaid elected officials invest their time and expertise in overseeing the governance of our district. School board directors play a vital role in navigating intricate decision-making processes that encompass budgeting, finance, policy development, and personnel matters. On behalf of the Marple Newtown School District, we extend our sincere thanks to the Marple Newtown Board of School Directors recognizing and appreciating their commitment and valuable contributions. Thank you for your time and dedication to the betterment of our educational community.

Culbertson's learning support team is starting "Culby’s Crew" for additional opportunities in language arts. Students will meet monthly for buddy reading and ELA activities to build community, boost reading confidence, and improve social skills across grades. Benefits include increased confidence, social growth, peer mentoring, leadership opportunities, and a positive classroom atmosphere.

On Thursday, October 26th, the Culbertson PTO sponsored the second annual Trunk-or-Treat. Several parents volunteered and decorated their cars to greet students and provide them with treats. In addition to the treats, the students were entertained by a DJ and wonderful food. The students were able to dress in their favorite costumes. The students were also able to compete in a costume contest with one winner per grade. It was a wonderful night for all who attended.

Loomis first grade students celebrated their 50th day of Learning at Loomis! The teachers created fun learning activities that included learning about school-life in the 1950s as students made comparisons to what life is school is like in 2023. Students also explored numbers up to 50 and discussed numbers greater than and less than 50.

Reading Specialist, Mrs. Miller along with the dedicated Kindergarten and First Grade teachers at Loomis engaged the youngest K-1 tigers in an enjoyable learning experience centered around the letters "b" and "d." Students were delighted to discover the letters "b" and "d" playfully making their way through the halls. The day was brimming with entertaining educational activities, including special glasses designed for "b" and "d," as well as creative hallway displays. These initiatives aim to assist the youngest scholars in distinguishing between these letters, which can sometimes pose a challenge.

The Russell PTO organized a lively "Fun Run" in late October to raise funds for various events and needs. To motivate participation and boost fundraising efforts, Mr. Thomas made a unique pledge – he would willingly be duct-taped to the cafeteria wall if the school successfully reached its goal of raising $20,000. Russell students surpassed their fundraising target, and on November 1st, the top student fundraisers from each grade had the exciting opportunity to tape Mr. Thomas to the wall during lunch hours.

Worrall Elementary is proud to introduce two new exciting clubs this year, Kindness Club and Chess Club. Mrs. Dragonetti skillfully led the Chess Club, benefiting from the generous support of the PTO, which provided numerous chess board sets. The club successfully ran for 5 weeks, attracting nearly 120 enthusiastic participants.

In addition, Mrs. Adami is currently overseeing two full sessions of students in the Kindness Club. Focused on fostering a spirit of goodwill, students in this club engage in crafting and creating handmade items to share with others, spreading kindness and performing acts of goodness. The PTO has once again demonstrated its generous support by financially sponsoring the Kindness Club.

The 2023 Paxon Hollow Talent Show took place on Wednesday, November 22nd, featuring an array of performances ranging from vocal and instrumental acts to magic tricks. One highlight of the evening was a spectacular performance by the Tiger Tones, Paxon Hollow's select choir. Adding to the excitement, the Paxon Hollow staff showcased their talents with a rock and roll performance of "Frank and the Guys." Even the teachers got in on the action with an dance number set to the song "Dance the Night" from the popular movie "Barbie." Credit goes to the Student Council members and advisors who did an outstanding job organizing the show. Kudos to all the students involved; their hard work and dedication are truly appreciated!

Assistant Athletic Director, Julie Rufo, and the PHMS Athletic Department organized yet another successful season of intramural floor hockey. This unique opportunity allows 6th grade boys and girls to actively participate in sports before transitioning to 7th grade. The PHMS intramural program, featuring floor hockey in the fall and basketball in the winter, introduces students to a new sport and gives them the opportunity to make new connections with their peers.

PHMS Student Council was very active this semester, organizing various events, starting with our spirited Spirit Weeks. Throughout this week, students embraced themed attire on designated days, such as "Pink Out Day," "Pajama Day," and "Favorite Music Artist/Concert Day." A favorite among students and staff is the lively "Color War Day," where 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students proudly wore white, orange, and black.

Also this fall, students were invited to partake in the annual Bingo Night held on Friday, October 27th. Attending in Halloween costumes, Paxon Hollow students enjoyed the evening, with snacks and competing for cash prizes!

Congratulations to John Beltrante, Marple Newtown High School Principal, for being honored by the Newtown Square Rotary Club with the Service Above Self award. Pictured: John Beltrante and Kathy Chandless, Newtown Square Rotary Club Past President.

The Pennsylvania Art Education Association (PAEA) has recognized the Marple Newtown School District for its commitment to visual arts education with the endorsement of Outstanding Visual Arts Community 2023. PAEA empowers its members to transform their practices, students, colleagues, and communities to build a strong art education culture and citizenry.

Districts receiving this endorsement demonstrate the importance of their visual arts programs with:

● Rigorous and Inclusive Programs: Arts programs demonstrate rigor using standards-based curricula taught at every level by highly qualified and certified art educators.

● Highly Accessible Programs: Art programs are offered to all students at every level of education with a sustainable budget for the visual arts.

● Highly Visible Programs: Schools and districts identify their programmatic accomplishments, curriculum for all levels, art staff, mission statements, and arts events using their school websites and social media.

On November 6th, over 20 students from Marple Newton High School were acknowledged for their exceptional artistic abilities and contributions to the Visual Arts Program at. Attendees engaged in discussions with Dr. Kane about their unique art pieces and received certificates in recognition of their efforts. The students' artwork was showcased in the Boardroom of the Administrative Building throughout the month of November.

Those recognized include Art Teachers: Karen Can, Michael Gaffney, and Michael Winterbottom. Students: Erin Bethke, Juliana Deenis, Ava DiBruno, Kayla DiFilippo, Sophia Favretto, Isabella Galiffa, Gabby Gavaghan, Emily Grimm, Derek Homel, Madison Kennedy, James Kirby, Abigail Lutz, Raven Martin, Val Papatsiaras, Kaylie Pohlig, Mackenzie Reinhard, Jamie Seltzer, Ava Smith, Sarah Stupak, Sam Trainor, Abigail Vanderkolk, and Louvan Williams.

On December 5th, more than 20 Paxon Hollow Middle School students were recognized for their extraordinary artistic talent and their contributions to the Paxon Hollow Middle School Visual Arts Program. Students in attendance had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Kane about their individual art pieces and were honored with a certificate for their work. Students will have their artwork displayed in the Boardroom in the Administrative Building throughout the month of December.

Those recognized include Art Teachers: Susan Dubrunfaut and Jessica Hawthorne.

Students: Rebecca Bogutz, Ava Bross, Abigail Crowley, McKenzie Cwiertiniewicz, Ava DiTrolio, Sierra Fetterman, Emerson Fingo, Luciano Follo, Mackenzie George, Nora Gowdy, Grace Hardy, Lauren Hennelly, Moira Henry, Ai-Vy Le, Devon McPartland, Kirsten Milliken, Elizabeth Morrone, Carter Patterson, Gabriella Roach, Ava Smith, Jonathan Vo, Jolie Yee, and Mark Zimmerman.

Click above for tickets:

December 14th at 7:00 PM

December 15th at 7:00 PM

December 16th at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM

The Marple Newtown Performing Arts Program provides students with a platform to showcase their talents and enhance their skills. Students collaborate with peers, directors, producers, and teachers to bring plays and musicals to life, offering a unique high school experience. The students oversee various aspects, including acting, set design, lighting, and sound, working collectively to transform a script into a captivating stage production.

This year's production, "Puffs, or: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic & Magic," adds a comedic twist to the mystery genre. Inspired by the wizarding world, the story follows Wayne Hopkins, an ordinary student at a magical school who is sorted into the house of “Puff”. The play offers a fresh perspective on the well-known wizarding story, focusing on the lives of the "Puffs”.

The students, portraying a diverse cast of characters, unravel a story filled with humor and magical mishaps. The collaborative effort of the cast and crew is evident as the production comes to life, weaving together individual contributions seamlessly. The play promises an entertaining experience, blending laughter and magical elements.

Special thanks are extended to the students, staff, stage crew, directors, producers, parents, MNHS Administration, and MNSD Board of School Directors for their dedication in bringing this enchanting production to the Marple Newtown Performing Arts Center. To the performers, stage crew, directors, producers, and everyone involved, may your talents shine brightly as you captivate the audience with this year’s production of "Puffs."

The Tiger Marching Band took the field to perform their 2023 program, “Terror at the Cinema” for the last time this season at J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown for the US Bands Division 4-A National Finals. “Terror at the Cinema” featured students “attending the annual Monster Movie Marathon, when the old theatre gets struck by lightning and the monsters come to life! Comedy and horror ensued!”. Despite rough weather this season the Tigers had a winning season receiving 2nd place in the USBands PA State Championship and 7th place in the USBands East Coast National Championship.

MNHS Color Guard takes away "Best Color Guard Section Award" at the PA State Championship for Best Color Guard.

The Marple Newtown Board of School Directors honor Coach Kevin Merchant for being named the Pennsylvania State Boys Lacrosse Coach of the Year by the PIAA. Congratulations to Coach Merchant, a proud Marple Newtown Alumni and esteemed member of the MNHS Athletic Hall of Fame for earning this distinguished honor. Coach Merchant led the MN Boys Lacrosse team to win the 2023 PA State Championship. Coach Merchant’s outstanding efforts are truly commendable, and his dedication is greatly appreciated!

Our 2023 Boys Lacrosse State Champs take a moment to commemorate their remarkable 2023 season under our new banner with their championship rings.

Marple Newtown High School's marching band and athletes enjoyed a highly successful fall season. Here are some highlights of our autumn activities and the numerous achievements attained by our students and teams in 2023.

Varsity Cheerleading took 2nd place at their first competition. They will be competing at regionals and hope to compete for a bid to go to nationals! MNSD is cheering them on as they continue in their competition season.

The Girl’s Soccer team had another historic season. For the second straight year, they qualified for District 1 playoffs. This is the first time in program history it has happened in back-to-back years. The team’s record was 9-8-1, a second straight winning season for the program. Awards: Kierstyn Finn was named First Team All Central League, and Amelia DiValerio, Emily Kucera, and Nicole Semerjian were named Honorable Mention All Central League.

Boys Soccer finished the season with a 5-13 record, however there are a lot of positives to take away from this season. MN featured the youngest starting team in all the Central League this fall with eight of our eleven starters poised to return next season. We finished in 9th place in Classification 3A where only the top 8 teams qualify for playoffs. Awards: Bennett Cox (Sr.) – All Central League 2nd Team, Josh McMenamin (Sr.) – All Central League Honorable Mention and Central League All Star Team for the SEPA Senior Showcase Tournament, Dante Scarduzio (Jr.) – All Central League Honorable Mention, Benk Gahler (So.) – All Central League Honorable Mention.

Girls Varsity Field Hockey ended the season with a record of 11-10-1, and ranked 5th in the Central League and 9th in the District One 2A conference. They made it to the fourth round of games for playoffs, beating Upper Dublin and Upper Perkiomen. They placed 6th out of 28 teams that made it to 2A District One Playoffs. It is the furthest we have gone in 20 years!

The Girls Tennis Team finished their season with an 8-8 record. Throughout each match, the girls continued to improve, winning their final 5 matches of the season. The team was led by All Central League Honorable Mention Grace Corner at first singles.

Cross Country: Boys: 5-6 and Girls: 8-3

All Delco: 1st team Lizzie Getz, All Delco 2nd: Allie Pavone and Ricky Lee

All CAL 2nd team: Allie Pavone and Lizzie Getz, Honorable Mention: Ricky Lee

We had 7 boys and 7 girls competing at District Championships, Lizzie Getz qualified for PIAA State Championships and ran the 3rd fastest time ever for girls XC. Ricky Lee ran the 2nd fastest time ever for boys XC and Allie Pavone ran a top 15 all-time race for girls XC. The Team Captains are Ricky Lee, Donovan Carmichael, Madi Impriano, Kaylee Davis, and Mary Anna Benko.

The Volleyball Team made the playoffs for the first time in 11 years. Heidi Reller was named 2nd team All CAL. Sophia Thiboutot, Kyra McCool, Sam Avellino, Gab Sheridan all were Honorable mention All CAL. Coach Riley is in her second year of Morgan’s Message. The program hosted a fundraiser match for "Lace Up 4 Pediatric Cancer". The program continues to grow. We hosted another middle school clinic with about 36 middle school athletes.

The fall Golf Program has grown. There was so much participation, that we needed to make cuts this year and limited the team to 24 players. This positive growth and interest shows Tiger Pride as it is highly competitive which challenges our students to work on their stroke and skills is to qualify for the team. Aiden Hennelly qualified for the state tournament! We had a 6 win season this year! This fantastic season excites us as we look forward to next year. With 13 seniors graduating this year, we hope to keep up our competitive edge next season.

Varsity Football finished 10-3, 10 wins is tied for the 2nd most in school history (1977 - 10 wins and 2016 - 11 wins). We won another playoff game this year. The senior class in 3 years ended with 25 wins, which is the second most in history. The team made the playoffs and ended losing in the quarterfinals to Springfield. The varsity football team has been in the playoffs for the 9th straight year. This year, we set the school record for most points scored in a season (423) breaking the 2016 record (411).

Congratulations to our MNHS students who successfully auditioned to be a part of the PMEA District 12 Band and Chorus. Students auditioned on November 18th amongst hundreds of other students from Delaware, Philadelphia, and Chester Counties.

The District Band concert will be held January 13th at Avon Grove High School. The District Choir concert will be held January 27th at Owen J. Roberts High School. Please join us in congratulating Robert Shaub – Euphonium, Roham Shirazi – Bass 2, and Teddy Pilko – Bass 2.

With winter approaching, the District begins to prepare for the upcoming winter season. A letter from the Superintendent was communicated on November 30 providing an overview of the school District’s severe weather/emergency delayed opening, early dismissal, and closing processes and procedures. Click below to download the entire communication.

https://marplenewtown.tedk12.com/hire/Index.aspx