May 2024 Superintendent Update

We’ve reached the end of May and have one week remaining in the 2023-2024 school year. Throughout this year, our students and staff have been working hard and achieving much success in academics, athletics, performing arts, and community service. I am grateful to our staff for all that they do to support the growth and success of our students.

Throughout the month we have celebrated many of the successes of our students. It’s been wonderful to join families, friends and staff as we recognized our students at art shows, spring concerts and awards ceremonies. We have incredibly amazing kids at Upper Moreland!

Speaking of amazing kids, in this month's video, you will hear from two high school senior artists as well as their teacher. Both students have completed advanced placement art classes at Upper Moreland.

Sincerely,

Dr. Sue Elliott

Superintendent of Schools

*This newsletter was initially sent out with an incorrect date for graduation. Commencement will take place on June 4th, not June 6th as previously stated. We apologize for any confusion caused.

Our new app and website launched at the end of March.
We continue to fine tune both tools to meet the needs of our schools and community.

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At the Board meeting on April 30, 2024, the Board approved the proposed 2024-2025 District budget. This budget includes staffing to support special education needs and increased enrollment. The budget maintains and increases support for student mental health and wellness. The budget also includes funds for preventative maintenance to support the health of District facilities. To learn more about the proposed budget, please go to this link. Also, the budget will be available for public review in Board Docs and on our District website.

The Board and administration will continue to review the budget with the adoption of the final budget in June.

Would you like to join our team and serve the students and families of Upper Moreland? There are various positions open. Consider submitting an application for one of our available positions.

Click on the image to the right to view our open positions.

After opening ceremonies, our students showcased their skills in various events including the Softball Throw, 50 Meter Run, and Standing Long Jump. Each year in preparation for the competition, our physical education teachers practice each event multiple times with our students. Adaptations and modifications are made for all students, regardless of their physical limitations.

Thank you to the parents, grandparents, family, friends, and teachers who attended the event to support our students. It was an amazing day celebrating the accomplishments of incredible athletes! Go Bears!

The UM Primary School Autistic Support team recently completed a successful third trimester of Community-Based Instruction (CBI) trips. Over the past two months, the Autistic Support teachers and staff have taken our students to the YMCA in Doylestown for swimming sessions. The pool is a zero-entry, heated pool, making it fully accessible to our students. This wonderful facility has provided our students with a comfortable and inclusive environment to learn and enjoy swimming.

A significant part of this success is attributed to Kaitlyn Stevens, Director of the Ability Program at the YMCA. The Ability Program offers adapted activities for individuals with special needs. Kaitlyn played an instrumental role in planning and assisting during each of the eight swimming sessions. The team also extends gratitude to the Upper Moreland Education Fund (UMEF) for the generous grant that funded this endeavor, enabling the students to benefit from this enriching experience.

In addition to our CBI team, Eva Randall, the UM bus driver who transports the students and staff to the YMCA, joined the students in the pool for several sessions. Her participation and interaction with the students highlight her commitment to the students, going above and beyond her duties to ensure their success.

The Primary School and the Autistic Support team are deeply appreciative of the YMCA, UMEF, and the supportive community members for making this trimester of CBI a resounding success!

Ms. Baron, a teacher at UM Primary School, is celebrating a remarkable achievement as her classroom won a global reading competition called READBowl 2024: The World Championship of Reading. Motivated by her students' love for reading, Ms. Baron registered her class for the contest, which was organized by the Share the Magic Foundation. Over the four weeks leading up to the Super Bowl, Ms. Baron’s students diligently logged their reading minutes, both in school and at home. Their collective efforts paid off, earning them the title “2024 All-Pro Reader Team” in the competition for their impressive reading minutes.

Globally more than 280,000 students in all 50 states and 15 countries participated in the 7th Annual READBowl. UMPS competed against other Booster-affiliated schools in the tri-state area to read the most minutes between the College Football National Championship game and the NFL Super Bowl LVIII. NFL Super Bowl Champion Malcolm Mitchell announced Ms. Baron’s class the winners on Super Bowl Sunday, and as a reward for their outstanding achievement, he visited the UMPS on May 30th. As the founder of the Share the Magic Foundation, Mr. Mitchell is deeply passionate about promoting literacy among children.

Students are invited to stay in great reading shape all summer with Head Coach Malcolm Mitchell and special Guest Coach Kristi Yamaguchi during READCamp: The Free Virtual Training Camp for Summer Reading. Upper Moreland would like to thank the Share the Magic Foundation, the Upper Moreland Elementary HSA, and the Boosters for providing this unique competition on this local level.

The May Rotary Student of the Month is Emily McLaughlin. As President of Student Council, Vice President of the Art Club, and a member of both Key Club and the MiniThon Committee, Emily is at the forefront of student leadership and community involvement. Beyond her official responsibilities, she generously gives her time and effort to support others, always ready with a smile and a helping hand.

Through her involvement in the Student Council and Key Club, Emily participated in community service projects such as the JRA. She has also volunteered at school events like MiniThon, freshmen orientation, parent teacher night, the color guard home show, and the jazz band home show. Her diligence, reliability, and motivation shine through in all her endeavors, and she approaches challenges with adaptability and a strong sense of responsibility.

Her dedication to her studies and to community service reflects her steadfast commitment to improving the world, one small act of kindness at a time. After graduation, Emily plans to continue her academic journey at Penn State University, where she will study chemistry.

Congratulations to Emily! You make us UM Proud!

The June Rotary Student of the Month is Ava Bailey. Ava exemplifies diligent work ethic, compassionate nature, and boundless positivity. These traits have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on those around her.

A standout student at Upper Moreland, Ava not only excels academically but also embodies the spirit of leadership and service in her school community. Her involvement in a multitude of extracurricular activities, including varsity Field Hockey and Softball, speaks volumes about her commitment to excellence.

Beyond her impressive academic and athletic achievements, Ava is deeply engaged in various school initiatives and community service projects. From her role as an elected Class Officer to her involvement in organizing fundraisers for charitable causes, Ava demonstrates a genuine passion for making a difference. She has volunteered to help with events such as the Minithon for 3 years, freshman orientation, coordinating MLK Day of Service projects, creating flyers for the Class of ‘24 fundraisers, and much more. Her internship experiences in classrooms of Upper Moreland Middle and Primary schools helped shape her dedication to education and nurturing young minds.

After graduation, Ava plans to attend James Madison University to study Elementary Education and Special Education.

Congrats to Ava!! She is a UM Golden Bear through & through!

UMHS Senior, Matthew Gorman, has been selected as the June EASTERN Center for Arts and Technology June Student of the Month for his outstanding academics in the Automotive Technology program. Matthew’s fascination with cars stems from his grandfather, a skilled engineer, mechanic and car enthusiast.

Matthew demonstrates strong leadership as the Automotive Technology SkillsUSA Class Representative at EASTERN. In January 2023, he placed third at the SkillsUSA District Competition for Automotive Service Technology. In December 2023, Matthew achieved first place in The Auto Tech written competition of the Auto Dealers of Association Greater Philadelphia (ADAGP). He was one of two EASTERN students chosen to compete in the ADAGP hands-on competition in March 2024. Additionally, Matthew has earned several industry-standard certifications, in Safety and Pollution Prevention (S/P2) and Valvoline certifications.

At Upper Moreland High School, Matthew participates in the Marching Unit and Indoor Percussion. Beyond academics, Matthew gives back to his community by volunteering at the Roslyn Fire Department and running his own lawn care business. He also works as a lot attendant at Faulkner Infiniti Alfa Romeo Maserati, and he details cars.

After graduating from Upper Moreland and EASTERN, Matthew plans on attending Temple University for Mechanical Engineering and has already received a scholarship. It's clear that Matthew's dedication and drive make him a standout student, both in and out of the classroom.

Congratulations Matthew! We are so #UMProud of you!

Every May, during National Teacher Appreciation Week, we seize the opportunity to celebrate and express gratitude to all members of our Upper Moreland staff who tirelessly contribute to our children's lives. Each staff member plays a crucial role in the success of our students. We are immensely proud of the commitment, skills, and outstanding efforts demonstrated by our 500+ staff members.

THANK YOU for your unwavering dedication! #UMProud

On May 21st, Upper Moreland Safety and Security Coordinator, Jen Forsyth, was recognized by the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety for her strong dedication and commitment to safety and security across the District.

Throughout the 2024-2025 school year, Mrs. Forsyth worked collaboratively with the Department of Public Safety, as well as the Upper Moreland Police Department, to maintain and improve the safety of staff and students within the Upper Moreland Schools. Mrs. Forsyth’s training videos and work across the district were highlighted at county meetings and have become an example for other local districts to follow.

Dr. Beth Sanborn and Mrs. Carli Ducko from the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety recognized Mrs. Forsyth for her leadership and work in the area of school safety not only in the Upper Moreland School District but across Montgomery County.

This year, fourteen (14) valued Upper Moreland staff members will retire and begin the next, well-deserved chapter of their lives. Their collective service spans an impressive 298 years, for which we are profoundly thankful for their dedication to our students and school community. We extend heartfelt wishes for their happiness and fulfillment as they embark on life in retirement. Though they move into this new phase, they will remain cherished members of our Upper Moreland community!

Administration

• Dina Cassidy, Director of Education, 30 Years
• Mark Curtis, Teacher, 29 Years

Facilities

• David Forcellini, Custodian, 17 Years

Transportation

• Karl Rahmer,, Bus Driver, 2 Years
• Frederick Smart, Bus Driver, 18 Years
• Charles Szydlik Sr., Bus Driver, 2.5 Years

Primary School

• Maribeth Batcho, 2nd Grade Teacher, 31 Years
• Gail Speers, Kindergarten Teacher, 35 Years
• Donna Woywod, Nurse, 14 Years

Intermediate School

• Susan Mathers, Nurse, 29 Years

Middle School

• Patricia Meck, Instructional Assistant, 16 Years
• Jacqueline Moffa, Building Secretary, 26.5 Years

High School

• Linda Christensen, Business Teacher, 27 Years
• Angela McClenton, Spanish Teacher, 21 Years

On Wednesday, May 22, 2024 Upper Moreland High School hosted the Eastern Tech School’s Awards Night. Congratulations to the Twenty-six (26) Upper Moreland students who received recognition in areas of study including Automotive Technology; Business and Technology Professional; Cosmetology; Culinary Arts; Design, Photography and Illustration; Electric Technology; Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning; Protective Services; Robotics and Automated Technology; Welding Technology; and Veterinary Science.

Upper Moreland spring athletes have been active representing the Golden Bears on the baseball and softball fields, the lacrosse field, the tennis courts, and the track. We are proud of the teamwork and accomplishments of our student athletes this spring. Below is a list of their accomplishments during the 2024 Spring Sports season.

• Upper Moreland Unified Track - Lower Montgomery County League Champions in their first season

• Girls Varsity Softball - Suburban One League Champions and hosted first round of PIAA playoffs

• Boys Varsity Baseball - PIAA District One Playoffs First Round

On Tuesday, May 28, 2024 student athletes, coaches, and families gathered in the stadium to celebrate the accomplishments of UM teams and athletes. Over 100 senior student athletes were recognized for their contributions to UM athletics, and the coaches recognized the MVP for each sport. Additionally, several students were presented with special athletic awards for their sportsmanship, teamwork, integrity, dedication, and exemplary athletic skills.

Special thanks to the Booster Club for their support of this event and for their continued commitment to Upper Moreland athletics.

Congratulations to all of the 2023-2024 Upper Moreland student athletes and their coaches on their successful seasons, team accomplishments, and individual successes.

2023-2024 ALL SPORTS TEAMS MVPs

Fall Sports

• Field Hockey – Cambrie Richmond
• Boys Soccer – Jackson Costello
• Girls Soccer – Brooke Lobban
• Girls Cross Country – Melody McDonough
• Boys Cross Country – Christian Feil
• Golf – Nathan Kelly
• Football – Alexander Simpson
• Girls Tennis – Abigail McKeever
• Cheer – Dakota Ingham

Winter Sports

• Boys Basketball – Colson Campbell
• Girls Basketball – Holly Gohl
• Boys Track – Fritz-Kevins Clement
• Girls Track – Brooke Lobban
• Wrestling – Mark Delzingaro
• Boys Swimming/Diving – Paul Spear
• Girls Swimming/Diving – Michelina Soroka
• Boys Bowling – Ryan Little
• Girls Bowling – Amanda Deleone

Spring Sports

• Boys Tennis – Brady Saunders
• Boys Lacrosse – Francis Sebold
• Girls Lacrosse – Annalise Messina
• Boys Track – Luke Starr
• Girls Track – Brooke Lobban
• Boys Baseball – Colson Campbell
• Girls Softball – Kaylee Brown
• Girls Unified Sports – Riley Skedzielewski
• Boys Unified Sports – Hayden Cahall

2023-2024 Sports Award Winners

• Outstanding Female Athlete – Brooke Lobban
• Outstanding Male Athlete – Alexander Best
• Charles Ritinski Scholarship – Male: Jackson Costello; Female: Kyra Favors

• L. John DeLaurentis Award – Holly Gohl
• Coaches’ Achievement Award – Michelina Soroka
• Robert Alexander Memorial Award – Male: Michael Muncer; Female: Olivia Meakim

• Marjorie Smith Award – Male: Francesco Maglio; Female: Devin Bush

• Joseph F. Wesley Scholar Athlete Award – Willow Taylor
• Live Like Trevor Hirsch Award – Male: Nathan Kelly; Female: Ava Bailey

• Babe Ruth Award – Male: Nathan Kelly; Female: Cambrie Richmond

On May 21st, the UM Middle School Boys' Tennis team showcased their skills at Hatboro-Horsham High School's courts, competing against eight other middle schools. The tournament featured five brackets of matches, and our team's performance was nothing short of impressive, securing first place in three brackets, second place in one, and third in another.

A highlight of the day was UMMS 8th grader Vinny Vito winning the singles class A championship, ending the season with a perfect 13-0 singles record. Outstanding, Vinny!

Congratulations to the boys tennis players for a remarkable season. Your hard work and commitment have truly paid off, and we look forward to seeing what you all do in your future tennis careers!

On May 14th, UMMS students participated in the Penn State Dream-Learn-Pitch competition, where students are given a platform to innovate and unleash their entrepreneurial spirits. This unique opportunity is generously sponsored by Gertrude Hawk Family Foundation. It exposes participants to the world of entrepreneurship and small business, challenging them to create a product, write a business plan, and present their business plan to investors.

The competition's curriculum is designed to ignite creativity and cultivate critical thinking, financial literacy, and risk management skills among students. Collaborating with successful businesses and universities across Pennsylvania, participants receive guidance to refine their ideas and perfect their pitches. Each team's business plan undergoes a thorough evaluation, with awards for the selected winners. For the 2024 competition, UMTSD proudly presented two middle school teams competing in the finals at Innovation Park, located on Penn State’s University Park campus.

We are proud to announce that our Middle School had not just one, but two winners in the entrepreneur competition! Nora Anderley, Molly Goud, and Enoch Lee won first place in the middle school division. They share a prize of $1,000 for their proposed product, "Traybility". Their ingenious solution caters to individuals in wheelchairs, providing them with much-needed workspace and storage through a specially designed tray, ensuring both safety and organization.

Hannah Gardner and Eva Gorrell won second place in the middle school division. They share a prize of $500 for their proposed product, "Ready Set Go!". Their innovative carpooling app streamlines the transportation process for busy parents, offering a convenient and secure means of coordinating their children's travel arrangements for sports and activities.

Congratulations to our innovative UMMS winners! #UMProud

Below are highlights of Board action taken at the May 21, 2024 meeting. To review meeting agendas, please visit the School Board section of our website.

• The Board approved a donation from the Upper Moreland Booster Club for a total of $1,494.12 to support the Wrestling Team’s coaching and athlete learning.

• The Board approved the licensing agreement with Acadience/Voyager Sopris Learning for the purchase of a new district assessment for grades K-8 to replace Star Reading and Math.

• The Board approved a waiver of fees for the Hope Community Church to use part of the high school grass fields for a spring event.

• The Board approved the 2024-2025 Food Service budget which includes a $.10 increase in lunch prices for the elementary and middle school. There is no increase to the lunch prices for the high school.

• The Board approved the Homestead/Farmstead Exemption Resolution for real estate tax assessment reductions for the 2024–2025 school year.

• The Board adopted Policies 212 and 211.