Alumni Spotlight

This month's Alumni Spotlight honors Darlene Balaguer-Piernock (MHS'83), whose journey from a science-enthusiastic student to an educator at Methacton exemplifies the values of transformation and commitment to growth within the Methacton School District.

Her fondest high school memories centered around her Environmental Science and Biology classes with Mr. Munch and Mrs. Griffith. In Environmental Science, Mr. Munch had a very hands-on style, which made a lasting impression on Darlene. In Biology, Ms. Griffith captivated her with her cheery personality, making DNA come alive in Biology class.

"Both were very different types of science teachers and continued to inspire my love of science."

Darlene was very involved in activities in High School. Her involvement in Student Council provided her with valuable fundraising experience, which proved extremely helpful when she later led the Environmental Club at Audubon Elementary. This experience enabled her to successfully fundraise for the creation of a center featuring a pond and greenhouse.

Darlene was also involved with journalism, contributing to the school newspaper and a class magazine. Now, she shares her expertise in news reporting and green screen technology with students in the Arrowhead News Club.

Darlene's path to teaching was not always clear. Initially she considered careers as an oceanographer and astronomer, but her insatiable curiosity spanned a wide spectrum of scientific fields, making it difficult to choose a single direction.

"I was interested in so many different sciences that I was having a hard time choosing."

To navigate this uncertainty, she enrolled at Montgomery County Community College, venturing into courses in computer programming, biology, and psychology. A pivotal moment arrived during a teaching course, however, where she discovered great joy in working with children. This realization ignited a new passion, leading her to embrace education as a career path that would allow her to share her love of science with future generations.

She later went on to further her education getting degrees from West Chester University, Cabrini College, and Wilkes University.

Darlene's commitment to advancing science education extends beyond the classroom. She has actively participated in numerous committees at the state level, collaborating with Harrisburg to promote science education initiatives within Pennsylvania. Furthermore, Darlene serves as a board member of the Montgomery County Science Teachers Association (MCSTA), an organization dedicated to supporting science fairs for students throughout Montgomery County.

"I continue to take workshops and learn because I think learning never ends. There is always something new to learn, so you have to keep fresh and up to date."

Darlene's love of innovation and technology has been a driving force behind many Methacton technological advances. As an early adopter of SMART Board technology in the classroom, she exemplified her commitment to educational enhancement, stating,

"I may have been teaching 1st grade at the time, but I felt it was always my obligation as an educator to use modern tools to enhance education."

Darlene actively sought opportunities to integrate technology into her teaching, successfully implementing iPads, stop-motion animation and green screen technology in her classroom.

Currently, Darlene utilizes Ozobot robots to introduce students to the fundamentals of programming. She has also played a pivotal role in integrating 3D printers into the elementary schools within the district.

"I am always looking for the next cool thing to share with students. I love to give my students the opportunity to develop their interests and talents, so they can see that there are no limits to where they may go."

Seeing students' curiosity and developing their passion for topics is always exciting; however, at the elementary level we also see tremendous growth and development. I am always surprised by the creativity and thinking that takes place.

Affectionately known as 'Mrs. BP' by her students, Darlene has been a resident of the Methacton community for over 50 years, offering a unique perspective as an alumna, faculty member, and parent.

"I feel proud to be able to work in the same community where I grew up. I feel like I am giving back to my community for supporting me in becoming who I am today. And now that my son attends the High School, it makes our connection to our community even more meaningful."

Throughout her time in the Methacton community, Darlene says there has been one constant:

"The one thing that remains the same is the support for education and innovation we have in this district. We might be a small district compared to many, but we put a high expectation on education."

For current Methacton students, Mrs. Balaguer-Piernock has a word of advice:

Don't limit yourself. Try everything and see where your passions and talents are.

If you are -- or know -- a Methacton graduate who should be featured in the ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT, complete the interest form here.

Email: information@methacton.org
Website: www.methacton.org/alumnispotlight
Location: 1001 Kriebel Mill Road, Eagleville, PA, USA
Phone: 610-489-5000
Facebook: www.facebook.com/methactonschooldistrict
Twitter: @methacton