Alumni Spotlight

“Always be kind, always work hard and always have fun” is the recommendation to the Class of 2023 from Lisa Larkin (Robbins) – a Class of 1995 alumna who returned to her roots and never looked back.

Once selected to sign the Methacton Honor Book, a long-standing tradition based on service and commitment to the graduating class, Ms. Larkin now upholds another long-standing tradition -- excellence in teaching at Methacton and commitment to all our students.

She returned to Methacton after graduating from the University of Delaware in May of 1999 as a double major in Elementary Education and Special Education and took a position as an 8th grade learning support teacher. While Ms. Larkin has held several other positions, including 1st grade teacher, 6th grade teacher, and high school special education teacher, she is currently one of three Math Instructional Coaches in the district. Lisa focuses on K-4.

“My current mission is to create and deliver a math teaching and learning experience that supports growth and understanding for all students. Through the implementation of instructional best practices, I will seek to expand teacher capacity and engage students in mathematical thinking and skill development.”

Ms. Larkin also holds a Master’s degree in Reading with a Reading Specialist Certification from Arcadia University and was awarded the prestigious Dr. Adeline W. Gomberg Scholarship in Reading.

Lisa shares that homecoming was her favorite Methacton memory. “Grade level classes would decorate the school halls. Each class would be assigned a stretch of hallway, which was transformed into a thematic scene. A huge student pep rally would occur on Friday followed by a bonfire on school grounds to kick off the weekend. The homecoming football game was truly that - a homecoming of alumni and the community to crown the homecoming king and queen. The homecoming court would ride in convertibles around the track prior to the crowning. The football game would follow and then the dance in the gym. It was just a fun weekend filled with lasting memories”.

Lisa credits Methacton Spanish teacher Peggy Nixon (now Swope) with being her greatest influence. “Thank you, Senora, for the impact you have had on my life.” She says Ms. Nixon encouraged her to continue studying Spanish into her college years and recalls what it was like to be in her class. “Senora always had a smile on her face and welcomed her students into her room each day ready to share her passion with enthusiasm and positivity. Senora took the time to know her students and would discover ways to facilitate learning to meet the needs of all of her students. She made learning fun and created a safe environment for students to be vulnerable. Learning a second language can be a challenge - different letters and sounds, unfamiliar dialogue, strange grammatical rules...everything!”

Today, Lisa describes herself as a mom to two beautiful children, wife to a supportive husband, and educator who works full-time in a career that she loves. When reflecting on the people and things in her life, she wants others not to take these moments for granted and to recognize that time is a gift.

“Life passes us by so quickly. Take the time to rediscover yourself and be present.”

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

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Website: www.methacton.org/alumnispotlight
Location: 1001 Kriebel Mill Road, Collegeville, PA, USA
Phone: 610-489-5000
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