Spirit of Methacton Award - 2024-2025

November 2024's awardees represent Eagleville Elementary School. They are:

• Natalie Pileggi – Professional Staff
• Noelle Mullen – Support Staff
• Charlotte Morris – Student
• Leslie Handler - Volunteer

Natalie Pileggi - Professional Staff / Reading Specialist

Mrs. Natalie Pileggi, a reading specialist at Eagleville Elementary School, is an educational professional with natural teacher-leader skills. Mrs. Pileggi works relentlessly to help our students during reading intervention, to develop our students and teachers by pushing into ELA blocks, to help our staff in breaking down and explaining reading data, and in providing reading feedback to families in meetings.

Mrs. Pileggi is Eagleville’s unofficial reading leader and someone her colleagues and our staff can go to when we need her professional opinion. We respect her knowledge base and her ability to communicate. In addition to her reading knowledge skills, Mrs. Pileggi is a proud parent and a previous special education teacher in another school district. Natalie uses these skills to understand the strengths of each student and to help pinpoint areas of focus, but most importantly, finding ways to make connections with each student.

Natalie knows each Eagleville student beyond reading data and can be seen each day greeting students at our main entrance during student arrival. Natalie values collaboration and organization, and she is honest, hard-working, and a true-team player. Mrs. Pileggi is a model of the “Spirit of Methacton.”

Noelle Mullen - Support Staff/ Instructional Assistant

Mrs. Noelle Mullen embodies the “Spirit of Methacton.” Mrs. Mullen is a proud parent of three children at Skyview, Arcola, and Methacton High School, is a Methacton alumna, and has served as an Eagleville Elementary School Home and School officer. She is also a highly skilled instructional assistant at Eagleville.

 Noelle is a caring, dedicated, and hardworking professional who values each student and works incredibly hard to help our children and to support each classroom she works in. Mrs. Mullen has the ability to connect with each student by knowing each child in the classroom and what is needed to support each individual best.

Outside of the classroom, Noelle is a staple of our positive school community. She can be seen greeting students and families in our carline, helping children during arrival and dismissal, and keeping our playground engaging and organized during recess. Noelle is a true asset to our school and district community.

Charlotte Morris - Student  

Charlotte, an Eagleville fourth grader, lives the “Spirit of Methacton” in how she goes about her day, each and every day at Eagleville Elementary School.

She is kind and supportive of her classmates, both in the classroom and during recess and PE. During core subject time, Charlotte works hard, is organized, and actively participates in discussions with thoughtful contributions and by listening to others attentively. Her teacher, Miss Lowe, used the words reliability and integrity to describe Charlotte as she emphasized her being a positive role model for her peers. These words are the ultimate compliment as to Charlotte’s character and approach. 

At our school, Charlotte participates in chorus, and as her special area teachers described, she consistently helps others in a humble way. We are so very proud of Charlotte in earning this "Spirit of Methacton” award and look forward to all that Charlotte will accomplish and share in her years at Methacton and beyond.

Leslie Handler - Volunteer 

Mrs. Leslie Handler is a former Methacton teacher, who has spent over 30 years working with Methacton elementary students, mostly with our Kindergarten students.

She retired in 2013 and remains very active in our community and with her loving husband, children and grandchildren.  Since her retirement, Leslie has continued educating children in and around the community. She tutors children in need as well as lending a helpful hand to our Eagleville Kindergarten teachers and students on a regular basis. Leslie helps us by reviewing letters/sounds/sight words, listening to children read, reading to the classroom, helping students complete missed work, creating crafts, and copying papers for the lessons.

Leslie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with her and always remains positive with the children she helps.  Leslie exemplifies the “Spirit of Methacton.”

October 2024's awardees represent Woodland Elementary School. They are:

• Xenia Zacharczuk – Professional Staff
• Trish Rubendall – Support Staff
• Leigh Lockwood – Student
• Patricia Lux - Volunteer

Xenia Zacharczuk - Professional Staff

Ms. Xenia Zacharczuk, one of Woodland’s ELD teachers, is a dedicated professional that consistently demonstrates a tremendous amount of care for our students and families.  She takes time to get to know her students as learners, but also works to build valuable relationships with our families.  Combined, this work helps her empower her students to be the very best versions of themselves and motivate them to overcome challenges. 

During the first two weeks of this school year, Ms. Zacharczuk was instrumental in assisting some of Woodland’s late registrants by offering to communicate with families in their native language.   She helped communicate, such things as logistics, schedules, and bus information helping families feel a sense of comfort during an incredibly busy time of year. 

We are extremely thankful to have her on our team.  Woodland would not be the same without her. 

Trish Rubendall - Support Staff

Ms. Trish Rubendall, one of Woodland’s Office Assistants, is a driving force behind the daily efficiency of our building.  Throughout the day, Ms. Rubendall wears a number of different hats, bouncing from the office to the cafeteria and where ever else she is needed. 

As we experienced some shifts in our staffing to start the school year, Ms. Rubendall went above and beyond to help fill the gaps and move our office team forward.  With me being new to the building, her insight and historical knowledge of the building and community have been invaluable.  She embodies the textbook definition of teamwork, always offering a helping hand or positive boost to those that need it.  If you are ever experiencing a bad day, Ms. Rubendall is the person you want to see.  Her positive outlook and attitude are contagious, making her an exceptional role model for our staff and students. 

Leigh Lockwood - Student  

Leigh Lockwood, a third grader at Woodland, is an exemplary member of our community and fully embodies the traits that outline the Spirit of Methacton Award.   She is committed to her academics and always puts her best foot forward.  Her genuine kindness, caring nature, and friendly demeanor positively impact her peers, as well as our staff.  She serves as a wonderful role model and consistently contributes to the success of our learning community.  On behalf of the entire Woodland family, we are incredibly proud of her and all her hard work. 

Patricia Lux - Volunteer 

Mrs. Pat Lux, a retired math teacher, is a dedicated volunteer at Woodland Elementary School. Over the past two years, she has generously shared her extensive math knowledge with students from kindergarten to fourth grade, providing them with much-needed enrichment, practice, and in-depth help.

Mrs. Lux is a valuable asset to the Woodland community, offering her expertise in a variety of ways. She enjoys working with students individually or in small groups, and she has a knack for making math concepts fun and engaging through games and exploration. Teachers can always rely on Mrs. Lux to provide support with any math topic, but it's the students themselves who are most eager to work with her!

Woodland Elementary School is truly fortunate to have such a dedicated and talented volunteer as Mrs. Pat Lux. Her contributions to the school are invaluable, and she positively models Methacton’s core values for all our students.

May 2024’s awardees represent Facilities, Aramark, Central Office and First Student.

They are:

• Ricardo Alaez - Custodian
• Amanda Grob - Aramark Food Service Worker
• Rebecca Murphy - Benefits Specialist
• Kristine Shafer - First Student Bus Driver

Ricardo Alaez - Custodian

Ricardo "Ricky" Alaez has been a welcome addition to the Arcola/Skyview custodial team.  He is dependable, organized, and consistently goes above and beyond to accomplish all assignments and tasks.  Ricky frequently volunteers to serve as Head Custodian at other schools to cover absences and has most recently volunteered to assist the Grounds department during a staff member’s extended absence.  Ricky is a true team player and is always more than willing to lend a helping hand whenever needed.

Amanda Grob - Aramark Food Service Worker

Amanda Grob came to Eagleville Elementary at the beginning of the school year and she has been an incredible addition to the food services team. Amanda always goes above and beyond what is expected of her. She brings ideas to help make the breakfast line more efficient. She also brings creativity and excitement to the way food items are presented. Students really enjoyed the Bento box idea she came up with. Amanda is reliable and kind, she knows all the students by name, and she shares a smile with everyone every day. 

Rebecca Murphy - Benefits Specialist

Rebecca joined the Methacton family in April 2022 as the Benefits specialist and jumped right in with an enthusiasm and kindness that is unmatched.  She supports our staff in many ways, including answering questions, ensuring they are covered under our plans, and managing the behemoth that is open enrollment.  Rebecca has also been cross-trained in Payroll and lets her creativity shine through the development of the business office’s two new newsletters -- Benefits Buzz and The Foodies. 

Kristine Shafer - First Student Bus Driver

Kristine, better known to parents and students as “Miss Kris”, joined the First Student team in August 2022. Since coming on board, her commitment to the children she drives daily truly stands out. As a school bus driver, her students' school day begin and end with her. Some of the wonderful things she does for her student riders include giving out prizes every Friday, decorating the bus for Holidays, and, of course, ensuring every student is transported safely to and from school. Parents are equally impressed with her work ethic. In fact, First Student recently received an email from a parent of an elementary student praising Kristine for going above and beyond what is expected from a bus driver. Kristine is an asset to both First Student and the Methacton school district for the wonderful job she does every day.

April 2024’s awardees represent Eagleville Elementary School. They are:

• Allison (Ally) Foltz – Grade 2 Teacher
• Jodi Kohar – Office Assistant
• Mason Zuroski – Grade 4 Student
• Muoy Jobson - Volunteer

Allison (Ally) Foltz – Grade 2 Teacher

Ms. Foltz has cultivated a welcoming and rigorous learning environment for her classroom. Her students take an active role in their learning. Ms. Foltz has been outstanding in celebrating the growth of students and takes care in her proactive planning to do so. Ms. Foltz has also been outstanding with her parent communication as well as with the active role she has taken with professional development and committee work this school year.

Jodi Kohar – Office Assistant

Mrs. Kohar has helped create a welcoming environment in our office. This is a role she has approached in serving our students, families, and staff in an efficient manner while always being warm and professional. Mrs. Kohar embodies what it means to motivate others to be successful and in also trusting the power of teamwork. While Eagleville’s office has had four new staff members this year, Jodi has learned quickly and is always ready to support our school.

Mason Zuroski – Grade 4 Student

Mason is the model of being a positive citizen in Eagleville Elementary School. Mason works hard in the classroom, is involved in the school and district activities,  and is caring and empathetic towards each of his classmates. Mason is a natural leader and demonstrates being safe, respectful, and responsible on a daily basis.

Muoy Jobson - Volunteer

Mrs. Jobson is highly involved in our school. She has attended our home and school meetings and has volunteered frequently in our cafeteria and library. Mrs. Jobson always focuses on our students and does so in a caring and warm manner. Mrs. Jobson humbly and quietly considers our staff and has done memorable things to recognize our staff and in helping them know how valued and appreciated they are.

March 2024’s awardees represent Arcola Intermediate School. They are:

• Mark Mueller, School Counselor
• Kristen Schooley, Title I Math Aide
• Veronika Kozak - Student
• Lisa Bruno - Arcola Home & School Association Treasurer 

Mark Mueller - School Counselor

I cannot overstate the difference that Mr. Mueller makes each day at Arcola.  He works with students in quite a few settings and is viewed as a vital resource to our staff.  Mr. Mueller counsels students individually and in groups.  He sponsors several clubs including Arcola Connection and Philanthropy.  He is instrumental in the organization of the annual STEAM day activities. He is often seen attending or working athletic events.  Mr. Mueller serves as a member of our Child Study Team and the SAP team. He works with our teachers regularly to ensure we are meeting the needs of our students. Mr. Mueller is always looking to do what is best for students and their families.  That comes instinctually to him without exception.

Veronika Kozak - Student

Veronika Kozak may be new to the district and Arcola but she truly embodies the Spirit of Methacton.  Since her time at Arcola she has been accepted into our National Junior Honor Society, she is involved in band and orchestra, and was a member on the girls' tennis team in the fall 2023.  Veronika is a very conscientious student.  She is also happy to help those around her.  You will always see her serving as a role model and good friend to students that are new to the district after her.  She has been so kind to help a newly enrolled student from another country find her way around by being able to communicate with her.  Veronika is eager to learn more, plan for her future, and she always wears a smile on her face. Thank you, Veronika!   

Kristen Schooley - Title I Math Aide

Finding a capable math aide is a difficult proposition.  Finding a capable math aide who understands the unique developmental needs of middle school students is exceptionally difficult.  Finding a capable math aide who understands the developmental needs of middle school students and who establishes productive, positive relationships with all students is nearly impossible.  We are that fortunate to have Ms. Schooley.  She is exceptional at what she does, and the students and staff at Arcola are the beneficiaries of her talents.  She coordinates with our math teachers to work with our students in multiple settings. Thank you, Ms. Schooley, for the great work you do at Arcola.

Lisa Bruno – Arcola Home & School Association Treasurer 

Ms. Bruno has been the treasurer for Arcola’s Home & School Association and has been invaluable in that role. She has demonstrated meticulous attention to detail, financial acumen, and a commitment to ensuring the financial support of our students and their events.  Ms. Bruno is collaborative and works very well with the other members of the Home and School Association.  She embodies the spirit of teamwork.  Ms. Bruno’s time and dedication to supporting our students, staff, and school events has been notable.  Arcola thanks you for your efforts.      

January 2024's awardees represent Methacton High School and Worcester Elementary School. They are:

• MHS
  • Jeff Derstine - Professional Staff
  • Dr. Karey Kochenour - Staff (Administrator)
  • Lorraine Deegan - Support Staff
  • Jessica Gabel - Student
  • Bill Corby - Volunteer
• Worcester
  • Jen Slater - Professional Staff
  •  Mary Jo DeRosato - Support Staff
  •  Mackenzie Starace - Student
  •  Patricia Hnat - Volunteer

Jeff Derstine - Professional Staff

Jeff Derstine is the health and physical education department chair at Methacton High School. He serves as a guiding light, leading by example and inspiring all those around them. His passion for health and physical education is not just evident in his words, but in every action he takes. Whether it's engaging students in innovative fitness programs, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, or demonstrating a commitment to personal fitness, Jeff embodies the very essence of leadership and creating a student-centered environment.

Dr. Karey Kochenour - Staff (Administrator)

Dr. Kochenour is an assistant principal at Methacton High School. She has led numerous initiatives in her 16 year tenure, but her most successful has been the growth of our Advanced Placement programming. Over the years, she has supported the transformation of our program into a remarkable success, showcasing her dedication to details, support for teachers, and student success on the Advanced Placement exams.  Dr. Kochenour commits perfection to everything she is a part of. She always puts students first in every decision she makes, and is the true embodiment of the Methacton Spirit.

Lorraine Deegan - Support Staff

Lorraine Deegan is the High School Principal’s administrative assistant.  She is the heart and soul of our building. She is a welcoming face to all who are in the building- students, staff, and parents.  Her amazing organization skills keep our building running like a spinning top.  She is able to multitask coverages, building purchase orders, substitute coverages, student needs, teacher needs and on-boarding a new principal with such grace and dignity, one would never know what a challenging job she has every day.  Her greatest asset is her kindness; she makes each person she encounters feel special and heard.

Jessica Gabel - Student

Senior, Jess Gabel is an exceptional leader who takes on any and every task with a smile and a work ethic that is second to none. Jess is our student council president.  Her calm demeanor makes everyone around her happy to take direction from her and inspires them to be their best. She embodies the true spirit of Methacton!

Bill Corby - Volunteer

Bill Corby began his association with the Girls Cross Country Team, Indoor Track, and Spring Track in 2002 when his youngest daughter, Ashley, competed for Methacton High School. Bill had volunteered his time with CYO and the Visitation Parish Running Program and so his abilities were welcomed when he offered his time and coaching expertise at the high school level. It is more than 20 years later, and Bill has never wavered in his dedication to the Methacton School District, Methacton High School, or the numerous runners he has coached.

Bill Corby is the epitome of what the Methacton School District seeks in a volunteer:

• Bill motivates his runners to succeed, encouraging them to take pride in their individual accomplishments and growth.
• Bill supports and motivates runners when they feel discouraged or disappointed. He helps them focus on the next goal.
• Bill invests a great deal of time in coaching daily practices and spending his Saturdays with the team at meets.

Bill invests much of his time and effort into each runner on the team.  His rewards: Satisfaction in a “coaching job well-done”; receiving X-C T-shirts, sweatshirts, or jackets that proudly display the Methacton Girls Cross Country logo; watching his runners improve and earn rewards and honors for their accomplishments; and most of all, having runners thank him for his time and effort with them. Bill has not coached for monetary reasons for the past 20 years. He has coached for the joy of watching students grow as team members, runners, and individuals.

Jen Slater - Professional Staff

Jen is a caring teacher who goes above and beyond to make sure her students grow in all possible ways.  As a reading specialist, Jen stays updated on current literacy trends and puts her learning into effect by utilizing new strategies backed by research.  Not only is Jen a reflective and knowledgeable educator, but she is also a caring and thoughtful individual who makes sure every student she works with feels valued and special.  Jen is truly loved by the entire Worcester community – students, volunteers, parents, and staff.  Thank you for all that you do to strengthen our school and learners!

Mary Jo DeRosato - Support Staff

Mary Jo is an office assistant at Worcester. Mary Jo greets parents and students with a friendly smile and always responds to any request with a pleasant tone and upbeat attitude.  Anybody who knows Mary Jo knows that she is one of the most kind and energetic people you’ll ever meet.  She loves to stay busy and is our in-house seasonal decorator.  Mary Jo is especially good at cheering people up, and I’m convinced she can make anyone’s day better just by being there.  Our students at Worcester absolutely adore her, and we are fortunate to have her at our school.

Mackenzie Starace - Student

Mackenzie is a fourth grade student at Worcester and exemplifies our school and district core values.  Mackenzie shines in all that she does and has an infectious positive attitude.  She is a reliable friend and someone you can trust to always “do the right thing”.  At school, Mackenzie is on our student council and serves as a member of our safety patrol.  She also plays the clarinet and is a member of the Sparkle Art Club. Mackenzie is extremely creative and even has her own small business where she and her friends make homemade soap and jewelry.  Mackenzie donates the proceeds of her sales to local charities, which is no surprise given her generous and giving spirit.  Mackenzie is also involved in Girl Scouts, loves to bake, and is actively involved in theater.  As you can tell, Mackenzie is a very special young lady.  We are so happy that Mackenzie is a Worcester wolf!

Patricia Hnat - Volunteer

Pat is truly an extraordinary volunteer!  She has been volunteering in the Methacton School District in a variety of roles for almost 40 years!  During the 1970’s, Pat served in the district as an active member in the Arrowhead Home and School Association where her three students went to school.  In the 1980’s, Pat served on several committees at Arcola and the High School, spending time as president of the Jr. High School and High School Home and School Organizations.  Pat began volunteering at Worcester 18 years ago when her three granddaughters began elementary school.  Even though her granddaughters are no longer at Worcester, Pat continues to be a dedicated volunteer.  She loves helping with Kid Writing and visits us each Monday to help Kindergarten students learn to write.  Pat often says that Worcester is “her happy place”.  Our students and staff absolutely love having her volunteer and we look forward to seeing her each week. Worcester is lucky to have parent volunteers, but we are even luckier to have Pat as a volunteer.  Thank you for your many years of dedication to Methacton, but specifically, thank you for your years of service at Worcester.

November 2023's awardees represent Skyview Upper Elementary School. They are:

• Cynthia Kim – Professional Staff
• Beth Hibbert Support Staff
• Raju Chukkana - Student
• Amit Rajaram - Volunteer

Mrs. Cynthia Kim - Professional Staff Member

Mrs. Cynthia Kim has been a dedicated teacher for the Methacton School District since 2003. Mrs. Kim’s positivity radiates to her students as well as their families. She works to create engaging lessons and supports each student in any area they may need. In addition, Mrs. Kim excels in building meaningful relationships with her students that last beyond Skyview. She is kind, caring and a positive asset to the Skyview community!

Beth Hibbert - Support Staff Member

Mrs. Hibbert is committed to the learning and growing of all Skyview students. She begins her day by ensuring our students are safe at breakfast and get what they need. She greets each student with a smile and helps wherever it may be needed. Throughout her day, Mrs. Hibbert works patiently with students to help reinforce skills and understand the content of the lesson in a deeper way. Mrs. Hibbert is always calm, kind and committed to student growth. In addition, Mrs. Hibbert is committed to improving our school climate by running our Secret Pals program. Finally, Mrs. Hibbert is a trusted employee who is willing to lend a hand whenever asked. Mrs. Hibbert has been serving the Methacton School District since 2001.

Raju Chukkana - Student

Raju Chukkana is a student who demonstrate positivity, kindness and leadership qualities every day. Raju is the student who does the right thing, even when no one is looking. Aside from Raju’s hard work ethic, he is kind to all other students and goes out of his way to make others feel welcome. Raju is a wonderful sixth grade student leader!

Mr. Amit Rajaram - Volunteer

Mr. Amit Rajaram continues to volunteer his time to help us on lunch duty. Mr. Rajaram is always kind and positive and willing to help out in our cafeteria. We are grateful for his time and dedication to our school community!

October 2023's awardees represent Woodland Elementary School. They are:

• Lynda Bradley, Genny Geis & Bert Hogstrom – Professional Staff
• Linda Milligan – Support Staff
• Nishanth Jutthuka – Student
• Karin Delpha - Volunteer

Lynda Bradley, Genny Geis, Bert Hogstrom (MEA School Representatives)

Woodland is a team committed to the growth of students, families, employees, and the entire community.  This pride and motivation can be credited in large part to the partnership  between all Methacton employee groups.  As the MEA representatives at Woodland, Lynda Bradley, Genny Geis, and Bert Hogstrom support an environment filled with respect and trust.  Any challenges that arise are easily handled together because the entire staff is committed to student growth and success. When visitors walk the halls of Woodland, they feel a sense of community, support, and warmth that is incomparable.  Our Woodland team is motivated to succeed and is open to new opportunities.  These are the same values encouraged in our students.  Lynda, Genny, and Bert promote this positive culture and are responsible for creating a place where everyone wants to learn and grow.  I thank these three individuals for aligning with me and supporting all the amazing activities we do.   Woodland thanks these MEA representatives for their tireless commitment to excellence in Methacton. 

Linda Milligan - Support Staff

Linda Milligan has been an Instructional Assistant at Woodland for years.  She empowers all learners to do their best while encouraging them to be open-minded.  Students and staff trust Linda because she is committed to helping all students grow.  Linda appreciates the uniqueness and diversity of every student.  She provides the sense of stability and consistency students need. Linda helps all students understand that they have the ability to transform the world.  The Woodland staff appreciates Linda’s hard work and dedication to the success of all students. 

Nishanth Jutthuka - Student  

Nishanth is a fourth grader at Woodland.  He is kind, considerate, and is committed to doing the right thing.  Nishanth shows respect to everyone and helps all students feel accepted.  There have been several times throughout his time at Woodland that Nishanth has made mature, responsible decisions.  Woodland emphasizes the importance of being respectful, responsible, safe, and kind and Nishanth shows all of these characteristics on a regular basis.  Woodland recognizes Nishanth Jutthuka for being a hard worker and a role model for other students.

Karin Delpha - Volunteer 

Karin Delpha was a long-time Woodland community member.  She used to live right across the street from Woodland and although she has moved away, Karin is still a regular volunteer. Several times a week, Karin can be seen walking the halls of Woodland supporting students and teachers.  She understands that the path to excellence is outlined by all the small things.  For example, every season, Karin and her husband take a trip to Woodland over the weekend to decorate the large flower pots outside Woodland’s front doors. During the holiday season, she can be found making homemade icing for each first grade student to create a gingerbread house. Karin spends countless hours preparing the library so  it is organized and ready for Woodland students.  Karin devotes her time to helping the students and staff of Woodland feel loved and appreciated. Tonight we want to tell Karin how much we appreciate her.