Community Conversations

This month, I am excited to share an update about the success of the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) system implemented at Skyview Upper Elementary. PBIS is a proactive approach designed to foster a positive school climate through clear expectations and consistent support. PBIS emphasizes teaching, modeling, and reinforcing the behaviors we want to see—helping students build the skills they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom. At its core, PBIS is about creating consistent expectations across all areas of the school—from classrooms and hallways to buses and the cafeteria—so that students understand what’s expected and feel supported in meeting those expectations.

Guided by the SOAR framework—Safe, Owning Our Actions, Acting Responsibly and Respectfully—Skyview's PBIS team, which is made up of administrators, teachers, instructional assistants, and a parent representative, worked in collaboration with the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit (MCIU) to implement the system with fidelity this school year. Students quickly embraced the initiative. From earning SOAR tickets to participating in fun incentives like school store purchases and lunchtime movie rewards, the system has become a source of pride. Most importantly, it’s working. Teachers report a noticeable shift in student behavior.

Skyview’s PBIS system was recently assessed by the MCIU using a rigorous fidelity checklist—and the results were outstanding. The MCIU classifies a score of 70% or above as ‘implementing with fidelity,’ meaning there is a higher chance of continued success. With a score of 91%, Skyview has demonstrated that when PBIS is implemented with consistency and commitment, students thrive.

Looking ahead to the 2025–2026 school year, Skyview will begin Tier 2 supports for students who need more individualized interventions. Additionally, we’re excited to share that all of our elementary schools and Arcola Intermediate School will be launching Tier 1 PBIS next fall, implementing the same practices and techniques that were proven successful at Skyview. Skyview Principal Dr. Berical is already working closely with teams at each school to ensure a smooth and successful rollout.

This is just the beginning. PBIS is more than a system—it’s a districtwide commitment to supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally by creating school environments where everyone can achieve.

We’re proud to announce the upcoming launch of our newly redesigned district and school websites, created with our students, staff, and families in mind. These updated sites are more accessible, user-friendly, and easier to navigate—making it easy to find the information you need, whether you're checking the lunch menu, viewing the school calendar, or looking for resources. You'll also notice more photos of our very own students and staff.

You can see these new websites beginning May 12 by visiting Methacton.org.

Sincerely,

Dr. David Zerbe

Superintendent of Schools

Now let’s take a look at some of the events and achievements

that took place across the district in April...

It was a busy month at Arrowhead! Arrowhead hosted the Grade 3 and 4 Spring Concerts, and Eagleville Grade 3 and 4 students performed for the evening concerts. Additionally, Arrowhead students showed off their creativity in the annual art show and took part in the spring book fair. All events were well attended by students and families and brought great joy to the Arrowhead community!

The entire Eagleville student body came together for a schoolwide assembly to support 3rd and 4th graders who are taking the PSSAs. Staff members shared encouraging words, and the 4th graders brought the excitement with a song. We are proud of our students for supporting each other. Best of luck on the PSSAs!

The Spring Book Fair and Art Exhibition at Woodland was a wonderful celebration of creativity and literacy! It was heartwarming to see so many families come together to support their children’s love of reading and admire the vibrant artwork on display. The halls were filled with excitement, laughter, and colorful masterpieces, showcasing the incredible talents of our young artists. Thank you to everyone who joined us and made the evening so special!

A second grade teacher partnered with 4H to provide students with an exciting learning opportunity this spring. Students received eggs in their classroom and watched the eggs hatch into chicks! After they hatched and students had the chance to observe them, the chicks were moved to their permanent home at a farm associated with Montgomery County 4H. Thanks to the Home and School Association for funding this program!

On March 31st, the talented Skyview Upper Elementary chorus and 6th grade orchestra had the privilege of filling the Main Rotunda in Harrisburg with their beautiful music. This memorable performance at the Capitol not only showcased their talent but also highlighted the vital role of music education in our schools.

Huge shoutout to our amazing directors, Mrs. Sue Basalik and Mr. David Bickle, for their inspiring leadership, and to our dedicated students for their outstanding performance!

The BioEYES program came to Arcola for a weeklong, hands-on science experience that brings live zebrafish into the classroom. Students helped set up zebrafish breeding, cared for the resulting embryos and used a microscope to observe them as they developed into clear, free-swimming larvae with visible, beating hearts. The program provides engaging curriculum in cell biology, genetics, and the scientific method. Partner institutions include the Pennsylvania Society for Biomedical Research, the University of Pennsylvania, Johns Hopkins University, and Thomas Jefferson University.

Methacton's 12th annual Mini-THON on April 5th was a testament to our community's incredible spirit, raising a staggering $48,545.11 for the Four Diamonds Organization and their mission to combat childhood cancer.

The magic of the day came from everyone – Methacton high schoolers, volunteers, and staff who filled it with laughter, games (like pickleball and escape rooms!), the iconic line dance, and even haircuts for charity. A special thank you to our amazing sponsors Jeffersonville Golf Club & Chubb for their support.

The Methacton International Festival returned to the high school this month, with a celebration of culture, community, food and dance. More than 150 attendees were immersed in the rich traditions of more than 10 nations, including India, Greece, Scotland, Jamaica, and Uganda, as well as engaging with the Black Student Union. From informative booths with artifacts and delicious food to vibrant performances of Indian song & dance, Greek dance, and Irish music, the energy was amazing! Thank you to everyone who shared their culture with us.

Email: information@methacton.org
Website: www.methacton.org
Location: 1001 Kriebel Mill Road, Eagleville, PA, USA
Phone: 6104895000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MethactonSchoolDistrict/
Twitter: @Methacton