Get ready to celebrate Sandy Fischer, MHS '92, our Alumni Spotlight this month! From her vibrant high school days, filled with sports and leadership, to her impactful career, Sandy's journey is truly remarkable. Inspired by her mother, a dedicated educator, she herself has become a dynamic force in Methacton's early childhood education, passionately nurturing young minds and actively collaborating in district-wide early elementary education initiatives.

 

Sandy Fischer's high school years were full of activity, balancing sports—field hockey, basketball, and softball—with significant leadership and service responsibilities. As Student Council President in her senior year, she represented her peers, organized events, and fostered school spirit, while her participation in Class Congress, Student Advisory, and Student Forum allowed her to advocate for student needs.These experiences provided invaluable leadership insights that would, in the future, prepare her for broader educational leadership roles.

"I had an amazing experience at Methacton! They truly were some of the best years of my life. These experiences not only strengthened my leadership skills but also reinforced my commitment to teamwork, service, and making a positive impact—values that have continued to guide me throughout my career in Education."

 

While Sandy fondly remembers a multitude of teachers and coaches who influenced her, three exceptional educators stand out prominently in her memory. In elementary school, Mr. Mark Constable's energetic and creative teaching transformed learning into an adventure, sparking a lasting curiosity. At Arcola, Mrs. Carol Anders fostered a safe and supportive classroom, where her attentive listening and compassionate guidance made every student feel valued. Later, at Methacton High School, Mrs. Cathy Miller served as an impactful mentor, inspiring hard work and perseverance while providing compassionate support during formative years.

Originally planning to be a pediatric nurse, Sandy's sophomore year of college revealed her passion for education, inspired by her mother, Joanne McCann, a respected kindergarten and first-grade teacher for 38 years.

 

"During my childhood, I looked forward to days that I was off so that I could go spend the day in her classroom. Her enthusiasm and love for 'her' little ones was inspirational!"

 

 

Sandy Fischer's journey at Methacton, beginning in 1999 as an Instructional Assistant, led her through gifted education before she discovered her true passion: Kindergarten. For the past 15 years, Sandy Fischer has dedicated herself to nurturing young minds in Kindergarten, where students in her classroom feel secure, valued, and eager to discover, laying the groundwork for lifelong learning.

 

"The impact of a positive Kindergarten experience can last a lifetime, and I take great pride in being part of that journey."

Sandy Fischer's ability to create a secure and welcoming classroom is vividly illustrated by the profound difference she makes in students' lives. She fondly remembers helping a student overcome selective mutism, a transformative and inspiring experience she describes as "incredibly heartwarming." This dedication to her students' growth was recognized in 2015 when she received the MCIU's Voices of Inspiration Award for Teaching Excellence in Montgomery County.

During her tenure at Methacton, Sandy demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership and collaborative improvement, actively participating in diverse committees including PBIS, Curriculum Writing, Report Card Development, DEI, and New Building initiatives, facilitating collaboration and shaping instructional practices. She also served as a union rep for Arrowhead, advocating for her fellow educators and working to foster a supportive and professional working environment.

 

 

Sandy Fischer was one of the teachers who piloted the Wonders Literacy program in a Kindergarten classroom and whose feedback was instrumental in the effectiveness of the implementation of this curriculum.

 

"Leadership in education goes beyond the classroom, and I take great pride in contributing to initiatives that strengthen our school community, improve student outcomes, and support my colleagues in meaningful ways."

Sandy's genuine love for Arrowhead Elementary, her students, their families, and her colleagues fuels her enthusiasm, and she openly expresses her appreciation for them all.

 

"I truly can say that I work in the best school in the world, Arrowhead Elementary School! I love getting up each morning and going to work. Not only does Arrowhead have the best students and families but also I have the best colleagues. Each and every day they inspire and support me to be the best teacher to my students. Arrowhead is a family and there is a great deal of love and support!"

Sandy offers advice to current Methacton students.

"Work hard, play hard, and make the most of every moment!"

This month's Alumni Spotlight shines on Emily Hartung, MHS '14! From sketching in her Methacton art classes to now designing for a business-to-business advertising agency, Emily's journey proves that nurturing your talents and embracing new opportunities can lead to a successful and fulfilling career.

 

Emily Hurting has been creating for as long as she can remember, always having a paintbrush, crayon, or pencil close by. This lifelong passion for art truly blossomed in the Methacton High School art department, where she thrived on the freedom of self-expression and the opportunity to explore a variety of artistic mediums.

Two teachers were particularly influential during this time, Nancy Marcinko and Beth Hall. Emily recalls that they created such a welcoming and supportive environment for all art students. Their profound impact was instrumental in her decision to pursue a career in the arts:

 

"They both fostered my personal creativity and also pushed me to become a better artist. My time spent in the MHS Art Department truly was the start of the career I have today and I am so grateful for all of the support I had from the faculty."

Emily fully immersed herself in the Methacton High School art program, completing Art 1, 2, 3, and AP Art. As a culminating senior year project, she and classmate Astin Stratoti collaborated to create a mural at Skyview, which remains on display for the community to enjoy. Mural painting would later become a significant part of her professional life, though she didn't realize it at the time.

A career in the arts was a natural fit for Emily, and with the guidance of her high school art faculty, she discovered her passion for graphic design. This led her to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication Design from Kutztown University, after which she honed her skills at various advertising agencies in the Philadelphia and Central Pennsylvania areas.

 

Today, Emily is a Senior Graphic Designer at Godfrey, a business-to-business-focused advertising and marketing agency in Lancaster, PA. Her days are dynamic and varied, ranging from kickoff meetings for new client projects and concept development for campaigns, to designing digital and social media ads, editing photos and images in Photoshop, and crafting large-format branding projects in InDesign or Illustrator.

 

"I love where I have landed in my career because I am able to be creative every day. As designers, we get to be creative problem solvers for our clients."

Beyond her 9-to-5, Emily turned her creative passion into a successful side hustle during the pandemic, winning a local mural design contest in Bucks County. That first mural, located at The Square in Dublin, PA, sparked a passion project that has since grown to include ten commercial and residential murals across Eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey, with notable clients like the Ronald McDonald House Charity in Camden, NJ, where she created a full-room mural.

 

"It really is a passion project of mine and I love being able to add beauty to a space using my art and seeing it on a large scale."

Alongside her mural work, Emily also maintains a freelance graphic design business, boasting clients such as Forbes, the Atlantic Council, as well as international collaborations. Her freelance portfolio spans logo design, branding, posters, merchandise, and a wide range of other client requests.

 

 

Despite her busy schedule, Emily remains committed to Methacton, maintaining close ties with former art teachers and recently returning for Career Day to share her experiences studying for her Bachelors in Fine Arts at Kutztown University and her professional journey with current students.

 

"I really enjoyed my time at MHS! I found my home within the art department and was able to grow my talents."

Her advice for current students is:

"Explore as many things as possible, try something new and don't be afraid to fail! Your teachers will be your biggest cheerleaders and use their advice and experience to your advantage."

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.

This December, the Alumni Spotlight features Michael Corrigan '85. From his early days as a high school soccer player to his current role as Executive Director of Government Operations at Boeing, Corrigan's career has soared to new heights, championing Methacton's core values of motivation and being open to opportunities.

 

Michael had a unique elementary school experience in Methacton School District. He attended three different Methacton schools without changing residences. He first attended Audubon Elementary, followed by Boyer Elementary, while Arrowhead Elementary was under construction.

 

We were the first third grade class at Arrowhead and I still remember the day they placed the time capsule behind the stone on the front wall with the opening date on it.

As a student at Methacton High School, Michael fondly recalls his senior year soccer team experience led by Coach Marcheski.

 

My senior year our varsity soccer team finished third in the league and the first and second place teams never beat us. It was a great group of guys and some of them (not me!) were really good and played in college.

Michael credits teachers Bill Forsyth and Peggy Nixon for significantly impacting his life. Mr. Forsyth, his Biology teacher, had a unique blend of humor and discipline. Ms. Nixon, his Spanish teacher, instilled the value of organization and preparedness, even assisting Michael with selecting a suit for the senior banquet.

 

Both of these teachers were instrumental in my education and helped create an interest in teaching.

 

While in high school, Michael's interest in community service led him to become president of the Key Club, a student-led organization dedicated to fostering leadership and making a positive impact in the world.

Following his undergraduate studies at the University of Delaware, Michael pursued a teaching certification at West Chester University. Although he successfully obtained his certification and completed his student teaching at Conestoga High School, he never entered the teaching profession. Michael admits that he never had a specific career path in mind, emphasizing that it's perfectly acceptable to not have a predetermined plan.

 

After college Michael moved to Washington, D.C. and worked on Capitol Hill for Congressman Larry Coughlin who represented Montgomery County.

 

While I was working for the Congressman, Methacton was given an award by the US Government for being a Blue Ribbon School. The district superintendent visited our office in D.C. to receive the award. He was surprised to see me there with the Congressman.

 

His next job was an appointed position for President George H.W. Bush’s administration at the National Transportation Safety Board where he did investigations of several high profile aviation accidents.

Michael is now in his 20th year at Boeing, serving as the Executive Director of Government Operations. While based at the company's military helicopter facility near the Philadelphia airport, he spends significant time in Washington, D.C., and state capitals across the country. His primary focus is advocating for Boeing's defense and space programs.

 

I believe my initial work experience on Capitol Hill instilled in me a staffer mentality that I have utilized everyday since in my work life. Being able to read a room and be comfortable in attempting to mold the priorities and perspectives of decision makers has served me well.

In offering advice to current Methacton students, Michael emphasized the importance of service, stating:

 

Be of service in everything you do - it will always pay off.

 

This strong connection to service can be attributed to his work in the public sector.

 

I believe my experience working in the public sector has made the greatest impact in my life. Being of service to your town, state or country is very fulfilling and rewarding. It’s a stark recognition that there are things bigger than us and we can help our communities strive and grow.

 

Michael currently lives in Montgomery County with his wife and two kids.
They enjoy playing golf together.

 

Go Warriors!

This month's alumni spotlight shines on Michael Duong '15, a student whose passion for science permeated his school years, and led him to excel at Science Fairs. Now a Radiology Resident Physician and Neuroimaging Scientist at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Michael Duong MD PhD exemplifies Methacton's core values, showcasing tireless commitment to helping others and transforming our future.

 

From a young age, Michael displayed a love of science. At home, he would help his family with a first aid kit, highlighting his early interest in clinical medicine and the healing mechanisms of the human body. This passion continued into his elementary school years at Methacton, where he consistently demonstrated a strong aptitude for scientific concepts.

At Worcester Elementary, Mrs. Liz Santucci and Mr. Chris Case inspired his love of science and learning.

 

They all provided invaluable mentorship and really went above and beyond to support me in the classroom and in science fair. I am truly thankful for their generosity and kindness and their belief in me.

 

In eighth grade, Duong channeled his curiosity about DNA methylation in bacteria into a science fair project. To explore this topic, he transformed his basement into a makeshift lab, growing bacteria in a homemade incubator. This early experience sparked a lasting interest, leading him to join the Science Fair team in high school, where he studied bacterial quorum sensing.

The Science Fair Team is like a family in how supportive the teachers and students are for each other. Of all the amazing Methacton High School educators, Dr. Christine Cocozza, Mr. Robert Helm and Dr. Judy Gallagher-Landis made the greatest impact on my time there. I am grateful for the lessons and friendships from the Methacton Science Fair Team.

This ignited passion for scientific research led him to participate in the International BioGENEius Challenge in both 2014 and 2015, where he secured second place globally in the latter year. His 2015 project delved into understanding the inflammatory processes in the brain, given his maternal grandfather's battle with Alzheimer's disease. Driven by this strong personal connection, Duong aimed to contribute meaningfully to brain research at his level.

 

Grandpa’s memory lives on in the lessons he taught our family and shapes my purpose. This experience has given me direction to help people living with Alzheimer's and neurodegeneration through better diagnosis and treatment.

Michael earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biophysics, Biology, and Chemistry, PhD in Bioengineering and MD in Medicine, all from the University of Pennsylvania.

 

His MD-PhD dissertation applied molecular imaging and artificial intelligence to predict brain metabolism and cognition in people with Alzheimer's and related dementia. Through this work, he received a National Institutes of Health fellowship grant and MICCAI medical imaging award.

 

As a radiology resident physician and neuroimaging scientist, I hope to improve early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and non-Alzheimer’s pathologies and tailor precise treatments. I wouldn’t be doing what I do if it were not for my family, including my inspiring Mom and Grandpa and for the kindness and support of my teachers.

His message for current students remains the same as his Methacton High School valedictorian address.

 

We experience 3 dimensions of space, but only 1 dimension of time, and time only moves forward for us. We can try to embrace this. We can learn from the past to make the most of the present and try to improve our future.

 

GO WARRIORS!

This month's alumni spotlight features Michelle Petko '89, a passionate and driven business professional with a deep commitment to community service. Michelle embodies the core values of Methacton, demonstrating the spirit of giving back and making a positive impact through her dedication to both her career and her community.

 

Michelle (Bravo) Petko found a lifelong passion for community service while in High School. She actively participated in various volunteer opportunities, including Class Congress, during her time there.

 

"I enjoyed being a part of the community and anything that involved school spirit."

 

Some of her fondest memories, are Homecoming games and celebrations. These were such large school events that brought the whole community together and fostered so many lasting relationships.

 

 

Michelle fondly recalls her many wonderful memories of Methacton teachers, but two in particular stand out as the most influential figures in her life: Mr. Romano, her high school Math teacher, and Mr. Herman, her business teacher.

 

"Both teachers were supportive and put in the extra time with me and other students. They always made themselves available for extra help, checked in on us to make sure we were on task and would reinforce what was taught during class."

Although she came from a family of educators, her exposure to business classes at Methacton broadened her horizons and revealed the diverse range of career opportunities available to her. The encouragement and support she received from both Math and Business teachers instilled in her the confidence to pursue a career path in business. Taking on electives such as Typing, Accounting, and Business Law, Michelle's dedication and enthusiasm were so noteworthy that she won the Norristown Business and Professional Women Award in her senior year.

Michelle Petko graduated from Penn State's Smeal College of Business with a Business Management degree in 1993, and then embarked on a career in Commercial Lending at Ford Financial Services. Rising through the ranks, she eventually became Operations Manager for their North East Region.

 

"However, my most fulfilling role came later when I transitioned to become a stay-at-home mother to our three daughters."

After stepping away from her career at Ford Financial to raise her daughters, Michelle became a dedicated member of the Methacton community. Over the past 15 years, she has held various positions on the Home and School Board at different schools within the district and has been a tireless volunteer for Post Prom events.

 

"I was volunteering in the schools so much a principal said "you should work here", and here I am. At Methacton, I found a second career that allows me to combine my business degree in the education field, community involvement, supporting Methacton families' education, supporting our community, and enjoying working with my peers in what makes me love coming to work every day."

MIchelle acts as the Supervisor of Continuous Improvement Secretary - a vital role in supporting the Curriculum department, teachers, and administration. The experience in the business world prepared her to approach any work with an intrigue to make improvements. Her responsibilities include coordinating conference arrangements, facilitating teacher and administrative professional development, providing technical support for the instructional software used at Methacton, working with Curriculum vendors, organizing in-service days, and overseeing various other important tasks.

 

"This is more than a job for me, I feel I have an active role in the community as well. I love my job because of the people I work with and I get to talk to Methacton staff all day. I get to be a part of the operation of the district itself and contribute to the improvement in all those areas."

Michelle met her husband, Steve Petko, at Penn State University 30 years ago. Together, they have three daughters: Ashley, Emily, and Casey. Ashley and Emily are both graduates of Methacton High School, with Ashley from the Class of 2021 and Emily from the Class of 2023. Currently, Ashley and Emily are attending the University of Pittsburgh, while Casey, a junior at Methacton, is exploring her options and interests for post-high school.

 

"Sitting in the bleachers seeing my 2 oldest daughters graduate, walk the same halls I did at their age including the same elementary school I attended is a very emotional feeling, a very proud one at that.

 

I feel very fortunate to have many career accomplishments, but I am most proud of my family."

As for current Methacton students, Michelle says:

 

 

"My advice to students in high school is to get involved. Try everything even if it may not typically be in your interest areas. One class, one activity, club etc. could open you up to something you may never had thought you would pursue. The people you meet and the different things you can be exposed to could be life changing. Being involved, working with others to reach a common goal are invaluable lessons."

From her days as a member of flag corps in the band front to her dedicated service as an educator and community leader, Diana Kernop is an inspiration to us all. She exemplifies the spirit of Methacton through unwavering commitment to our community and embodiment of our core values.

 

EARLY YEARS

Diana was a dedicated member of the Methacton flag corps in the band front throughout her high school years. She recalls that the flag corps was a brand new activity at the time, and those who signed up in its beginning continued to participate throughout their high school years. One of her most cherished memories is of William McCambly becoming the band director in her sophomore year. Under his guidance, the band and color guard achieved new heights, participating in numerous competitions.

 

"Being part of the flag corps and band front was a challenging and wonderful experience - especially for someone who was quiet and reserved. I still remember lots of very special people from my time as a student."

Ms. Kernop was a dedicated student, excelling academically and participating in the National Honor Society. Her passion for learning was evident in her enthusiasm for subjects like social studies and history. She fondly recalls the classes of Mr. Dewan, Mr. Dwyer, Mr. Kellon, and Mr. Forsyth, whose instruction left a lasting impression on her.

A graduate of West Chester University with a BS in Elementary Education, a Master's Equivalency in the state of Pennsylvania, and a Master's Degree from Neumann University in Educational Leadership, Diana Kernop began her professional career with the Methacton School District in 1977 teaching fifth grade at Audubon Elementary School.

 

 

Diana taught at Audubon until its first closure in the late 1980s, subsequently joining the faculties of Woodland, Eagleville, and Skyview Upper Elementary Schools. Over her four-decade career with the Methacton School District, she served on numerous committees, witnessed significant changes in the district's size and infrastructure, and experienced firsthand the evolution of the educational landscape.

 

"It was interesting teaching with those who were my teachers, as well as those who had been my students. Having grown up and taught in the same district where I went I saw multiple generations.”

 

Diana married Gary, a Marine Corps Captain in 1990, just as the first Gulf War erupted.

 

"My world broadened as I visited Okinawa and, later, as I took my sabbatical in Seattle Washington. These experiences enriched my life and allowed me to contribute more meaningfully to the district."

Diana Kernop says she is proud to be a Methacton graduate and former employee.

 

“I have enjoyed teaching and the many opportunities I had as an educator and as a Methacton Education Association leader. Methacton has always been important. They say I bleed Methacton Green."

Diana was a dedicated member of the Methacton Education Association (MEA), serving as an officer, negotiator, and President. Through her involvement with the MEA, she attended annual PSEA Houses of Delegates, NEA conventions, and Gettysburg Leadership Workshops, gaining valuable professional development and personal growth. She also actively participated in county-level advocacy, lobbying legislators for public education and helping to establish the Health Care Consortium. Diana served on the Consortium's board for several years, working tirelessly to keep healthcare costs affordable.

Diana currently resides in Harleysville with her husband Gary. Since retiring, she has continued to be active in the Pennsylvania State Education Association, serving on the Montgomery County Retired Executive Board. In her free time, Diana enjoys reading, playing Mahjong, participating in the Norristown Garden Club, and traveling.

 

"Most of all, I am enjoying time with family and friends in retirement as they are truly very important in my life."

 

As for current Methacton students, Diana Kernop has a word of advice:

“Make the most of the time you have as you continue your educational path toward graduation and beyond. Enjoy the friendships that you make, the opportunities that you have, and learning that helps you grow on your path to adulthood. Challenge yourself and be the best that you can be."

Memories of motivation and roots here linger in the heart of alumni David Chang as he continues his journey from the halls of Methacton High School to a world of global diplomacy.

 

David fondly remembers when the football team clinched a win against rival Spring Ford in 2010. To David, being a part of “The Tribe” instilled a profound sense of belonging in students. “Seeing the traditions continue today makes me proud as an alumni -- showing the WE ARE Methacton.”

 

Reflecting on his time at Methacton, David says many teachers were influential in his journey but two became remarkable mentors: Glynn McCann and Paul Lepre.

He recounted this moment: “As a sophomore, I walked into Mr. McCann's classroom, asking how I could take his honors U.S. history class, despite not meeting the proper academic requirements. Before the school year ended, and with Mr. Sussman's help, I could appeal and take his class. Upon the start of junior year, Mr. McCann took me under his wing after noticing my determination to succeed. I talked to him about my career goals, looking to pursue a career in diplomacy. Still, I was also concerned about my college prospects, which looked dim for a student [interested in] an international relations program. Encouraging me to stand and deliver, Mr. McCann suggested I take the APUSH exam (passed without taking the class) and attend a summer international relations program at Georgetown University -- considered the top school for diplomacy in the world. The summer experience solidified what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. When my senior year started, my future started falling into place, and I was finally accepted into a top ten international relations program in the U.S.”

A decade after graduating, David and Mr. McCann reconnected – at a Phillies playoff game. “I was watching Game 4 of the 2022 NLCS on television. When the Phillies returned, I bought a last-second ticket (I won't say how much) and drove from Northern Virginia to South Philadelphia early the following day to attend Game 5 of the NLCS. Knowing Mr. McCann works as an usher at Citizens Bank Park, I took a few moments to catch up and say thanks for everything, telling him what I was doing in Washington, DC. I [had] to thank Mr. McCann for encouraging me to beat the odds. Three hours later, Bryce Harper sent the Phillies to the World Series.”

When speaking of Mr. Lepre, David says he imparted invaluable lessons of resilience and teamwork. “I first encountered Mr. Lepre in Mr. Moser's gym class as an Eagleville student in 1999. As a young athlete rising through the area's Pop Warner football program, Mr. Moser, also a Methacton alumnus, told me Mr. Lepre is the OL coach at the high school. We had a brief encounter at the Wolverine football camp in 2005, where he corrected my stance, but soon learned in 10th grade about his appointment as the new head football coach. At the time, the program sought a new identity after going 1-10 the previous season. Coach Lepre instilled in us that we are all representing Methacton and [we are] part of its story. It also brought back memories of Mr. Moser at Eagleville -- himself a part of the legacy -- meeting Coach Marinkov and witnessing how opposing coaches admired him.”

Today, David works for the U.S. Department of State in Washington. After Methacton, he earned a bachelor’s degree in International Studies at American University and is finishing his master's in Security Studies at Georgetown University. After graduating from Georgetown, David plans to continue his global diplomacy and national security career. However, he might obtain a PhD with dreams of becoming a college professor at some point, perhaps becoming an educator like Mr. McCann and Mr. Lepre.

 

When asked what his advice would be to current students, David has this to offer: “Seize the moment. Seize the opportunities. Those who came before you are rooting for you every step of the way. We are all part of the success of what makes Methacton so great.”

Four years after graduating from Methacton High School, Sean McCracken was back in his hometown with a degree in elementary education and thrilled for the chance to start his career in the place that raised him. “I graduated from Millersville University in 2006. That summer, I was hired by the Methacton School District to teach 6th grade science.”

 

 

Currently, Sean teaches 8th grade science and serves as the science department coordinator at Arcola. He also holds a Master’s Degree in teacher leadership. He says it’s tough to even count the number of incredible educators who influenced his decision to become a science teacher and inspire the next generation of students. “I have had so many positive influences throughout my years at Methacton. It’s why I wanted to teach here. I'd love to shout out Mrs. MacLuckie, my sixth grade science teacher, Mr. Bontempo, my 8th grade science teacher, Mr. Savitz, my biology teacher, Mrs. Griffith, my chemistry teacher, and Mr. Helm, my physics teacher. Each of these teachers made me excited to show up to school each day and learn, become a better student and person, and learn about the science process. The best thing about each of these individuals is that they are also tremendous to work with and I am lucky to have both of these experiences.”

Outside of the classroom, Sean has been deeply involved in the Methacton community and remains a motivational figure to many. He has served as a class sponsor, coached basketball for 15 years, and coached both boys and girls lacrosse for the past 6 years.

 

 

As a student, Sean was heavily involved in the music program and is proud to see that it remains as strong today as it was back then. “I played the trombone and drums for both band and orchestra. I also got to play drums for two musicals at Methacton. During the summer in between my junior and senior year, I was given the opportunity to travel to Europe to perform with Ambassadors of Music.”

 

With Post Prom coming up, Sean remembers vividly the excitement of taking part in the highly-anticipated tradition. “Post Prom was very new to Methacton when I was in high school. The community -- parents, teachers, and students -- spent so much effort planning the events and I appreciate that looking back. It was an opportunity to have an amazing time with friends,” he shared. “I got to play sports. My high school band Call Me Donny got to perform and we got to stay up all night in a safe environment. It's really neat to see this event continue at Methacton.”

Sean is an avid runner and a certified running coach through the Road Runners Club of America. He and his young family share a passion for travel and spending time outdoors.

 

“I'm looking forward to running the Broad Street Run this May for my 13th time. As a family we have a goal to run an organized race in every state. Recently, we visited Arkansas and Texas. This summer we are going to check off Ohio and that will be our 27th state.”

When asked what advice he had for current Methacton students, Sean had this to offer: “Get involved and give back to your community. Methacton has so many opportunities including sports, music, and clubs to name a few. Find something that you are passionate about, surround yourself with friends, and be a part of something. Methacton is an amazing community and any way to give back benefits us all.”

Methacton means so much to Betsy Dru (Long) Tecco. It’s more than just the place where she grew up, beginning in first grade at Worcester Elementary. Betsy says her time at Methacton High School ignited her passion for writing and it led to a successful career that spanned four decades.

 

 

“Richard Bergey, my high school English teacher, influenced me the most because I always wanted to be a writer and his class gave me opportunities to do creative writing. He printed a booklet of our poems and essays that I still have!” Betsy says she believes Mr. Bergey had to be the person behind the nomination that led to a writing award she won in her senior year.

Reflecting on her high school days, Betsy fondly remembers several activities that enhanced her academic journey. “I loved performing in the musical Irene as well as a few comical plays directed by Mr. Brown, the theater arts teacher. I also enjoyed planning special events as part of Class Congress, including homecoming, proms, senior banquet, and fundraisers. Our class sponsor, Phyllis Lacek, gave us tons of support and made it fun to meet in her Home Economics classroom.”

 

Amazingly enough, Betsy also found time to play field hockey and lacrosse, work on the Jabberwocky newspaper staff, participate in Ski Club, and serve on Student Council. Having these kinds of opportunities at school gave Betsy a profound appreciation for the world around her. She implores current students to take advantage of the various extra-curricular activities available. “Get involved for the fun and the experiences - THAT'S what you will remember most, long after you graduate.”

After graduation, Betsy attended Penn State and majored in English Writing. From there, she had a very successful career as a professional writer. “I was a professional writer for 40 years, working for advertising agencies as well as independently as a freelancer. I wrote promotional copy for many industries including healthcare and hospitality, countless articles for regional and national magazines, short stories for an ESL textbook, and 13 nonfiction books for Rosen Publishing Group, a school and library publisher.”

 

Now retired professionally, Betsy strongly supports the continued success of Methacton. In the spirit of paying it forward, she currently serves on the board of the Methacton Education Foundation, a nonprofit focused on empowering students and staff through innovative programs. “Volunteering allows me to give back to my alma mater.”

Beyond her professional achievements, Betsy finds tremendous joy in her family life. She and her husband Armand have been married for 40 years and are the proud parents of two daughters, Sianna and Elise.