UDHS Purple & Gold
March 2024
This month's cute photo is of Esmeralda "Esme" Zoccola, Halloween feline extraordinaire and rescue cat of Special Education Teacher Dianne Zoccola. When Esme is not judging the TV viewing habits of her human, Esmeralda enjoys attempting to run out the front door, and making supermodel poses on her beloved couch.
Have a story to share? We'd like to hear from you! Please contact Dianne Zoccola at dzoccola@upperdarbysd.org
The Upper Darby High School Marching Band has had an amazing fall! Among their accomplishments included a September 27 live performance for Philadelphia's local 6 ABC new; a first place finish on October 5 at the US Bands competition at Marple Newtown High School; and a first place win at the US Bands competition at R idley High School on October 12. Congratulations to Band Director Doug Ballard and his Marching Royals!
Mr. Hudnut and Students Learn Sign Language
The students in Mr. Hudnut's vocational skills program have begun their unit on communication in the workplace. They are concentrating on learning American Sign Language (ASL). So far the students are learning greetings and basic communications.
They have also learned how to count and do basic addition and subtraction in sign language. They are now focusing on the alphabet and choosing nicknamesw with which to communicate.
Says Mr. Hudnut, "The students are enjoying learning this and I've already seen them communicate with each other when we are in class. This will be a valuable skill for all of our students, especially the ones who are non-verbal or very shy. It has been a rewarding experience, so please feel free to join in when communicating with our wonderful students."
Ms. Onorato Holds First School Store of the Year
Early in October, Ms. Onorato’s class held its first class store, in which students can earn items of their choice by doing classroom jobs, participating in activities, and having excellent behavior. Students earn "money" and use their "paychecks" to purchase items of their choice. It's a great incentive for students to participate in activities, and they also get to learn about shopping, buying, and budgeting.
CollegeBoard Recognizes Upper Darby Students
Several UDHS 11th and 12th grade students were recognized by the CollegeBoard for their academic achievements. This annual honor "celebrates top-performing high school students who belong to communities historically underrespresented on college campuses." Among the honorees this year is UDHS senior Mu'aadh Newton (pictured below with his loving family).
