On March 14, 2025, Chestnutwold Elementary School hosted an exciting and inspiring Career Day, giving 4th-grade students the chance to explore a variety of professions. A total of 42 presenters—ranging from family members and neighbors to community professionals—shared insights about their careers, all of whom were invited by the students themselves.

Throughout the morning, students had the opportunity to visit seven different presenters, learning firsthand about careers they may not have previously considered. The event featured professionals from a diverse range of fields, including acting, law enforcement, engineering, entrepreneurship, writing, law and science.

One of the highlights of Career Day was the hands-on activities provided by the presenters. These engaging experiences allowed students to get a real feel for each profession—whether it was participating in a mock trial with a lawyer, testing out engineering concepts, or learning performance techniques from an actor.

Career Day not only broadened students’ knowledge of potential career paths but also sparked new interests and aspirations. By connecting with professionals from their own community, students gained valuable insight into different career journeys and the skills needed to succeed.

Local businesses are teaming up with Haverford High School to give students a head start on summer employment. At a recent job fair held in the school gymnasium, over 30 employers from across the community set up tables, handed out applications, and spoke with students about a range of job opportunities available this summer.

From summer camps and senior living to landscaping and municipal departments, the event showcased a variety of positions suited for teens eager to gain real-world experience, earn money, and build their résumés.

Many students came prepared with résumés in hand, excited by the chance to meet employers face-to-face. For some, it was their first job fair experience.

As summer approaches, both students and businesses are hopeful that these connections will lead to meaningful work experiences—and maybe even long-term career paths.

Over four hundred Haverford High School juniors had the opportunity to go on a college road trip recently! This is an organized experience where our high school students visit multiple college campuses to explore what life after graduation could look like. Students can tour campuses, meet current students and admissions staff, learn about academic programs, and get a feel for each school’s culture. It’s an exciting and eye-opening opportunity to imagine the future, ask important questions, and begin to see which college environment might be the right fit.
Tours included: Drexel University, West Chester University, Saint Joseph’s University, Penn State University-Brandywine, Delaware County Community College, Millersville University, Neumann University, Ursinus College, University of Delaware, Villanova University, Princeton University, Jefferson University, Rowan University, and Kutztown University.

Haverford High School Marine Ecology teacher Elliot Seifert has been awarded a $13,000 grant from the Haverford Township Education Foundation for his project, “A BLUE Piece of MIND.” Inspired by Wallace J. Nichols’s book Blue Mind, the project explores the powerful connection between humans and water—how being near, in, or around water can promote peace of mind and improve mental health. “A BLUE Piece of MIND” provides an entirely unique hands-on opportunity for students to connect with the Marine Ecology curriculum with the added benefit of improving a student’s mental health. Students will work collectively in small groups to establish their very own blue piece of the ocean through a one-gallon all-in-one reef tank. The traditional process to establish a reef tank follows along nicely with the sequence of the Marine Ecology curriculum. “A BLUE Piece of MIND” provides students with a direct connection with the content that will stay with them long after their time at Haverford High School has ended.

Beyond academics, the project fosters real-world skills. Students will develop problem-solving and critical thinking abilities as they care for and troubleshoot their reef ecosystems. Working in groups encourages communication, collaboration, and responsibility—skills essential for success both in and out of the classroom.

The marine aquarium hobby demands a broad and evolving base of knowledge. As students engage with their reef tanks, they’ll deepen their understanding of marine ecology and grow as both scientists and individuals. The experience is designed to leave a lasting impact—one that stays with students long after their time at Haverford High School. Through “A BLUE Piece of MIND,” science comes alive, learning becomes personal, and students are empowered to take ownership of their education in meaningful, memorable ways.

You can learn more about the Haverford Reef Society here:

https://www.facebook.com/haverfordreefsociety/

https://www.instagram.com/hav_reefsociety/?hl=en

The Haverford Township School District Education Foundation (HTSDEF) is pausing their Annual Twilight Run 5K/1-Mile Elementary Challenge this year to evaluate strategy. Thank you to all the past participants and sponsors--they look forward to seeing you next year! The fundraising has not stopped, but your continued support is needed to help drive innovative educational initiatives in the district.

You can make a general donation or contributing to their $20 for 20 years anniversary campaign. You can do that here: https://haverfordedfoundation.org/donate/

To learn more about the grants, go to https://haverfordedfoundation.org/approved-grants/.

Dr. Jabari Whitehead, Principal of Chatham Park Elementary School, was invited to speak about professional development for education leaders at AASA, The School Superintendents Association. He shared insights from his contribution to the 2025 Society of Professors of Education Award-nominated book "Intersectionality and Leading Social Change in Education: Professional Learning to Transform Self, Others, and the Field." Join us in celebrating Dr. Whitehead's impact on shaping the future of educational leadership!

You can also listen to Dr. Whitehead's podcast Better Us, Better Them - Return on Generosity.

Twenty-six of our seventh graders' artworks have been included in a mural on the Temple University campus. The Philly Cares mural, located in Ritter Hall, features a total of 288 pieces created by K–12 students from schools in the Philadelphia region. Each square in the mural represents one of these students and reflects their ideas about who they are and what they care about. You can view some of our students' artwork from the reception here.

The Haverford Science Academy and Science National Honor Society officers hosted the first annual All Abilities DISCOVER Day on Thursday, March 20th. They invited the Best Buddies clubs from the middle and high schools to participate in a DISCOVER Day-style afternoon in a more structured and guided event.

On March 21st each year, people worldwide celebrate World Down Syndrome Day. The date 3/21 is significant, symbolizing the triplication of the 21st chromosome, a defining feature of Down syndrome.

World Down Syndrome Day holds deep meaning for many families, including one in particular here in Haverford. For Dan Graham, the youngest of nine siblings, life has been filled with love, support, and a strong sense of community from day one. This special day honors not only individuals with Down syndrome, but also the families, caregivers, educators, and friends who uplift and celebrate them every day.

From the moment Dan entered the world on July 24, 1993, his family’s life was forever changed for the better. Described as the life of every party, Dan is the beloved uncle who never misses a birthday, school play, or a chance to play hide and seek or wiffle ball on the beach. He’s the first on the dance floor, the last to leave, and always up for an adventure—whether it’s riding amusements on Wildwood’s boardwalk, playing a round of mini golf, or enjoying some well-earned ice cream.

Dan’s presence in the Haverford School District has left a lasting impact. Known for his warm personality and genuine kindness, Dan thrives on connection and community. His role working in the high school cafeteria allows him to stay actively involved, reconnect with former teachers and administrators, and continue doing what he loves most—being around people and serving others.

He enjoys the people he works with in the cafeteria, describing them as kind, respectful, and supportive—always making him feel valued and important. Dan finds joy in cleaning tables, putting away dishes, and interacting with the students he sees each day. One of the highlights of his shift is being treated to lunch at the end—something he looks forward to every time.

The stories shared by students and staff paint a picture of someone who truly lights up a room. Whether it’s with a smile, a funny story, or a quick joke, Dan brings joy to those around him. He has become a bright spot in many people’s daily routines, creating lasting memories and friendships along the way.

Opportunities like this are life-changing for Dan and his family. His work experience offers more than a job—it provides structure, social connection, and a deep sense of purpose. These inclusive experiences not only benefit individuals with Down syndrome but also help the entire school community grow in empathy, respect, and understanding.

When asked how others can be better friends to those with Down syndrome, Dan’s family offers simple, heartfelt advice: treat them as equals. “People with Down syndrome are just like us—they enjoy the same things, feel the same emotions, and bring so much to the world,” his family shares. “I often tell others that my brother Danny has taught me more than I could’ve ever taught him! I only wish that everyone could embody the same traits I admire most about him- his ability to always see the good in others, offer a smile and wave to everyone we meet, and take the time to listen to others, no matter how busy we are!" said his sister Lauren Gallagher, 4th-grade teacher at Coopertown Elementary.

Since 2023, the District has required verification of continued residency in the township and confirmation of contact information for current fifth (5th) and eighth (8th) grade students who plan to attend Haverford Middle School and Haverford High School in September 2025.

In accordance with Board policy #200, Enrollment of Students, the District requires each student’s residency to be verified by parents/guardians or other adults with whom the student resides prior to June 30, 2025.

Starting March 1, 2025, families can submit their verification documents through their PowerSchool parent account (PowerSchool Parent Accounts).

Each student verification requires two (2) acceptable documents, as outlined in the policy, in their entirety, with the address and name(s) clearly indicated. Examples of acceptable documents include:

• Deed
• Settlement Statement
• Current Lease Agreement
• Current Property Tax Bill
• Current Utility Bill
• Current Credit Card Bill
• PennDOT Identification Card

Documentation submitted by families will be reviewed for authenticity and accuracy beginning in May and continuing through June. Once your child’s documents have been verified, confirmation will be communicated through your PowerSchool parent/guardian account.

Completing the Residency Verification Form in PowerSchool

If you do not plan to return in September 2025, please notify your child's school office.

If you encounter a problem during the process, we are happy to assist you. Please contact ITHelpDesk@haverfordsd.net.

• Neurodiversity Celebration Month is a time to celebrate neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and bipolar, as identities to be accepted and respected. The goal is to move beyond awareness and celebrate these differences as strengths rather than hindrances.
• Arab American Heritage Month, in recognition of the contributions of Arab Americans to the nation's history. Americans of Arab heritage have advanced the nation’s achievements in diplomacy, science, technology, as well as in art and culture.
• National Deaf History Month is celebrated from March 13 through April 15 to commemorate the achievements of people who are deaf and hard of hearing.

We invite all members of the community to view the budget presentations for the upcoming school year. These presentations provide an overview of our financial planning, priorities, and investments in student learning and district operations. Your engagement is important as we work to ensure transparency and make informed decisions that support every student’s success. Presentations are available on the district website and on our YouTube Channel.

02/13/25: Proposed Budget Presentation (Committee Meeting)

03/06/25: Proposed Budget Presentation (Regular School Board Meeting)
04/03/25: Proposed 2025-26 Budget Presentation (Regular School Board Meeting)

The School District of Haverford Township utilizes BoardDocs, an online, paperless resource for all school board meetings. Here, you can find the agenda, meeting minutes, video replay, and board policies. The meetings are live-streamed on YouTube.

Regular and Committee Board Meetings will be held at the Oakmont Administration Building.

*NOTE TIMES FOR COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Upcoming Meetings:

• April 24: School Board Meeting
• April 28: Finance & Facilities Committee Meeting 6:30 PM
• May 8: School Board Meeting
• May 15: Policy Committee Meeting 6:30 PM

All presentations and videos can be found on BoardDocs.

Please check the District calendar for upcoming events.

April 9: Dr. Hayes Meeting with Elementary Families 6:30 PM ZOOM

April 14-18: Spring Break begins at close of school on April 11, 2024
April 18: Religious Holiday (schools & offices closed)
April 21: Teacher In-Service day (no school for students)
April 22: Schools re-open

2024-2025 Calendar (At a Glance)

2025-2026 Calendar (At a Glance)

2026-2027 Calendar (At a Glance) *NOTE: START SEPT. 1 - BEFORE LABOR DAY

Join the incoming Superintendent, Dr. Matthew Hayes, in connecting with the community. He'll start with virtual sit-downs where he can listen, learn, and engage with the School District of Haverford Township staff and families.

To make the most of the time together, he'll meet with elementary families in April and secondary families in May via Zoom.

Share your thoughts, hopes, and ideas on the following two important questions:

• What are some ways we can build on our strengths?
• What skills and abilities does a well-rounded graduate possess?

Connecting with the Elementary Families - Superintendent Sit-Down

Date: Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Zoom Link: https://haverfordsd.zoom.us/j/86824430125

ADHD in School Age Children Wednesday April 9, 2025 6:00-8:00 p.m. Via Zoom
Presenter: Shannon Graham, Professional Development Specialist
Executive functioning skills are essential cognitive processes that enable individuals to plan, organize, manage time, regulate emotions, and achieve goals effectively. This training will provide parents with a comprehensive understanding of executive functioning skills and practical strategies to support individuals in developing and strengthening these skills at home.

Please register for this session by Monday, April 7, 2025.
Register at https://www.dciu.org/ParentTrainings
Zoom link will be sent the day before the training.

Do you know someone—a friend or family member—who is currently job hunting? SDHT is hiring Guaranteed Building Substitute Teachers and Instructional Assistants for the 2024-25 school year! We offer competitive salaries, flexible part-time and full-time opportunities, and benefits for eligible employees. Join our team and make a difference—Apply today!

The mission of the School District of Haverford Township is to educate and to inspire a community of lifelong learners who become well-rounded global citizens.

Website: https://www.haverford.k12.pa.us/
Location: 50 East Eagle Road, Havertown, PA, USA
Phone: 610-853-5900
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/haverfordsd.net
Twitter: @haverfordsd