Following the procession of students, faculty and administrators, seniors Daniel Morrison Fenkel and Arielle Biran opened the program with welcoming remarks, followed by speeches from Principal Scott Weinstein and School Board President Dr. Kerry Sautner.

The student orators during the ceremony were John Henry Gallagher and Alessandra Simmons, who preceded the evening’s final speaker, Superintendent Dr. Steven Yanni. Diplomas were then awarded to students by Dr. Yanni and members of the Lower Merion Board of School Directors, before the program concluded with the tassel ceremony.

To view a slideshow of images from commencement, or watch a video playback of the ceremony, visit LMSD.org.

Following the procession of students, faculty and administrators, senior class officers Persephone Brooke-Lynn Johnson and Emmie Lou began the program with opening remarks, followed by classmate Danielle Gesser Sapir, who gave the Senior Class Oration.

Next, the senior class officers presented the Class Gift, which was a thousand-dollar donation to the Lower Merion Township Scholarship Fund (LMTSF) and ABC House, before remarks were provided by School Board President Dr. Kerry Sautner.

Student Council officers then took the podium to announce the winner of this year’s Fritz Brennan Award: math teacher Tim Presser, who graciously accepted and shared a few words with the audience.

On hand for the presentation of this year’s Sean Hughes “Character Counts” Award — established in memory of the longtime LMHS principal who was killed in a car crash in November 2021 — was alumnus and inaugural recipient Leo Solga, who presented a plaque to this year’s winner, senior Emily Zhang.

Remarks were then offered by Student Government President Danielle Essan, Principal Dr. Michael Johnson and Superintendent Dr. Steven M. Yanni. The program concluded with the awarding of diplomas and the tassel ceremony.

To view a slideshow from commencement, or  watch a video playback of the ceremony, visit LMSD.org.

The tax increase is part of the district’s 2024-2025 budget that was approved by the school board at its meeting June 10.

The local property tax increase comes from a rise in the millage rate paid by property owners.

The millage was 32.3948 mills in the 2023-2024 school year. In the upcoming 2024-2025 budget, it will increase to 33.9110 mills. One mill represents $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s assessed value.

The increase represents about $380 for a property assessed at the average rate of $250,680. A home with that average assessed value would see its tax bill go from $8,121 to $8,501 next year.

Victor Orlando, the school district’s business manager, said that under the state homestead program, the money that lowers school taxes through gambling revenue, the school district received $1 million more than last year, so for the 14,920 residents who have approved homesteads in Lower Merion and Narberth, they will see approximately an extra $72 reduction in their tax bills. In the current year, homeowners saw a $295 reduction in their bill. This year, that reduction will be $361, the highest it’s been in Lower Merion and Narberth since the program began in the early 2000s.

The 4.69 percent increase is lower than the 5.3 percent Act 1 limit. Lower Merion did not need to file a preliminary budget because the district’s increase was under the Act 1 limit.

So, how much is the district spending this year?

The total spending for the 2024-2025 school year is $329.27 million, up from $320.6 million in the 2023-2024 school year budget.

On the expenditure side, salaries and benefits account for 47 percent and 29 percent, of the district’s total spending. All other spending categories, such as supplies, professional and technical services, property, and others account for under 10 percent each. The increase in expenditures is about 2.70 percent from the current year’s budget.

The largest category, salaries and benefits for district employees, will cost the district about $250 million.

Orlando said they will also transfer $5 million from the district’s capital reserve funds. The money will go to replacing the Harriton and Lower Merion chillers, which will cost about $1 million. The Bala Cynwyd Middle School roof is being replaced for about $6 million, but about 75 percent of the cost is expected to come from grants, leaving about $1.6 million from the capital reserve transfer. Finally, the replacement of school buses will cost about $2.4 million. The cost for each item is an estimate and subject to final pricing.

At the most recent meeting, the school board appointed Megan Shafer as its acting superintendent. She is expected to remain in the position until the board selects a new permanent superintendent.

Shafer replaces Steven M. Yanni, who is leaving the district to become superintendent at the Central Bucks School District in Bucks County.

Yanni’s decision to leave Lower Merion came after he was with Lower Merion for less than one year.

“Tonight, the board will take action to appoint Ms. Shafer as the acting superintendent,” Yanni said. “One of the things that I am extremely grateful for was Megan’s partnership over the last year and over the partnership of the entire cabinet as I transitioned into this role and transitioned out of the role in just a few days.”

Shafer has been with the district since 2011 and formerly worked with the school district’s solicitor’s firm.

In May, the district announced it was hiring a search firm to replace Yanni permanently.

In January 2023, Shafer was also named acting superintendent after Khalid Mumin left the district when he was appointed the state’s education secretary. She served in that position until July 2023 when Yanni started at the permanent superintendent.

“Ms. Shafer is a cum laude graduate of Denison University and the Temple University School of Law. She began her career in the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights, before moving on to work in labor and employment law and in education law, first at Morgan, Lewis, Bockius LLP and then at Wisler Pearlstine LLP. She served as LMSD’s Director of Human Resources and Senior Director of Policy, Personnel, and School Programs prior to assuming her current position,” according to biographical information on the district’s website.

The two envisioned their new Fete de la Musique as a public celebration in the country’s streets, parks, community centers, backyards and porches — an inclusive, free-to-all music festival that would bring performers and audiences together across cultural and other divides. The event became hugely-popular in France and abroad, and music lovers in 1,000-plus locales around the globe now celebrate what has evolved as World Music Day every June 21.

Not only professionals or music students, either. As imagined by Lang and Fleuret, participants include just about anybody.  Professionals, amateurs, choirs, all ages, all ability levels. Got a tin ear but enjoy singing?  You, too.

Locally, Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library, 1001 Powell St., has scheduled ongoing events to mark World Music Day 2024, including a performance geared to pre-schoolers at 11 a.m., a drum workshop with Tony Flagiello at noon, “Max on Trumpet” at 1:45 p.m. and the Fricknadorable acoustic duo at 2 p.m.

A variety of other acoustic acts will perform at Recycle, Read, Repeat Bookstore, 208 Cherry St., from 5 to 8 p.m.

Expressive Path Creative Arts Center, 857 Cherry St., will host several EPCAC students and teachers as well as community performers — everything from individual singer-songwriters, duos and trios to poets — from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

“There will be an open mic forum in which Expressive Path students, their families and the community will take turns in the spotlight,” says Pamela Martin, EPCAC’s founder and executive director. “All ages and abilities are encouraged to perform…singers, poets, dancers and skits as long as music is involved.”

At 7 p.m., participants can catch Jonathan Haggard on the organ at All Saints Church, 835 Haws Ave., and, at 8:30 p.m., enjoy an old-fashioned campfire sing-along and s’mores at Reformed Church of the Ascension, 1700 W. Main St.

Therapists laud music’s positive effect on mood and mental health in general. Reggae great Bob Marley put it more poetically when he said music “gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and charm and gaiety to life and to everything. Where words fail, music speaks.”

As Expressive Path’s Martin sees it, “Make Music Day promotes connections in our community and exposes people to a wide variety of musical genres and cultures.”

“This special day spreads joy, positive energy…and encourages people of all abilities to try something new,” she says.

Jeanne Cove, MC-NPL’s head of teen-adult programming and outreach, says Upper Perkiomen Valley’s annual Make Music Upper Perk helped inspire the Norristown library’s World Music Day program.

“They’ve been doing something in Upper Perk for years,” Cove says. “I used to work at the library there, and it became a wonderful community tradition. I thought Norristown has so many wonderful things happening under the radar, why don’t we celebrate what’s good about the town?

“Music is something that crosses all cultures. The Church of the Ascension on West Main Street was interested in doing something, so we thought, OK, let’s get this going. It’s celebrated all around the world…160 different countries … and our thought was, why not here in Norristown. So, we’ve been plugging away at it.  It’s still pretty small, but we hope to make it a Norristown tradition.”

A tradition that “allows you to interact with people you wouldn’t normally interact with,” Cove says.

“People often associate Norristown with hardship and struggle and crime, but there are a lot of wonderful people who live in this town,” she adds. “This is a chance for us to show off some of the town’s positive aspects.

“I think this could become a really neat community tradition. It’s very grassroots. Everything is free, and nobody’s getting paid. In fact, we’re encouraging people to even just play or sing on their porches with their neighbors. Of course, we’d love it if people would come out to see the performers here and at (other participating venues). They’re a real mix.  Some are professional. Some have never performed in public before.  It’s a real range.  All levels, all abilities, all genres. And…all are welcome.”

Additional World Music Day events throughout Pennsylvania are posted at https://makemusicday.org.

The three grand prize winners were among 35 teachers named as finalists for this year’s awards — selected from nominated teachers from across the Greater Philadelphia region, including Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.

The Citadel Heart of Learning Awards, established in 2001, honor exceptional teachers who inspire their students and make a significant impact on their communities. Each year, students, parents, and colleagues nominate thousands of teachers, with a select group of winners chosen based on their dedication, innovation, and commitment to education.

Since the Heart of Learning Awards program was launched, the company has recognized more than 400 area teachers, chosen from among thousands of nominees. More than $500,000 in grants have been awarded, enabling the teachers to enhance their classrooms with new resources aimed at fostering educational excellence, according to a press release.

One grand prize was presented in each award category this year — elementary, middle and high school.

The 2024 Heart of Learning grand prize winners are:

• Elizabeth Pandosh, kindergarten teacher, Kings Highway Elementary School, West Caln Township, Chester County

• Travis Lick, math teacher, G.W. Carver Middle School of Engineering and Science, Philadelphia

• Chassidy King, marketing teacher, Chester High School, Delaware County

Pandosh, Lick and King each received a prize of $10,000 — $5,000 for them and $5,000 for their schools. The other teachers who were finalists were presented with $1,000 to spend in their classrooms, as well as gift cards and prizes.

Each winner also received the Glass Heart Award. This year’s prizes totaled $60,000 in grants and prizes.

“We are immensely proud of the Citadel Heart of Learning Awards and the incredible educators it celebrates,” Bill Brown, president and CEO of Citadel Credit Union, said in a statement. “Reaching the half-million-dollar mark in donations underscores our long-term commitment to supporting teachers who are shaping the future through their passion and dedication.

“These teachers not only educate but also inspire and uplift their students, often going above and beyond their call of duty. It is our honor to recognize their extraordinary efforts and provide them with the resources they need to continue their invaluable work.”

King was nominated for the Citadel Heart of Learning Award for her exceptional dedication. In one of Pennsylvania’s lowest-performing districts, she initiated Clipper’s Closet for free hygiene products and started an after-school girls’ group, according to the release. She teaches financial literacy, marketing, and more, and serves as senior class and DECA Advisor.

Lick has significantly contributed to the academic success of 7th-grade math and 8th-grade algebra students. Under his guidance, STAR growth scores improved from 43% to 63% at or above grade level, with a nearly 60-point average increase, marking one year of academic growth, according to the release. This achievement places his students at the top of their Learning Network.

Pandosh is a dedicated teacher at Kings Highway who goes above and beyond to make families and students feel welcome in the Coatesville community, according to the release. She engages with every family and creates a close-knit classroom environment. As a teacher of reading, math, and science, she finds ways to engage and challenge each student, including those who already have advanced skills.

Citadel coordinated with each of this year’s winning teachers’ schools to coordinate a surprise presentation of their awards. The announcement of the grand prize winners was held until all the winning teachers had been notified and presented with their awards, according to an emailed response to questions.

Citadel also coordinated with the Chester County Intermediate Unit — which co-founded the program with Citadel 23 years ago — to recognize six additional district-level winners from Chester County who received the Glass Heart Award and a surprise ceremony from the CCIU.

Originally focused on Chester County teachers, the program was expanded several years ago to include the full Greater Philadelphia region.

Among the other finalists were one teacher from Bucks, one teacher from Berks, 17 teachers from Chester, two teachers from Delaware, three teachers from Lancaster, four teachers from Montgomery and two teachers from Philadelphia counties.

To see the full list of finalists, visit https://www.citadelbanking.com/giving-back/citadel-heart-of-learning

NEWTOWN SQUARE — The Episcopal Academy graduated 134 seniors at its 239th Commencement exercises on Thursday, June 6.

The ceremony took place in the Class of 1944 Chapel on the Newtown Square campus.

Students were recognized for their accomplishments and congratulated by Dr. T.J. Locke, Head of School; Fr. Tim Gavin, Head Chaplain; Mr. Mike Letts, Head of Upper School; and Ms. Tanuja Murray, Dean of Students.

This year’s student speakers were valedictorian Colin Schlitt and salutatorian Brendan Schlitt.

“While we are all different authors, our stories will share the moments that make Episcopal the extraordinary place that it is.” shared Brendan Schlitt. “The grit and passion we leave on the court, field, mat, track, river, or in the pool. These are the moments that define the Episcopal experience.”

“The most important aspect of our education does not come from the text of our books but from the words of wisdom bestowed by our teachers,” reflected Colin Schlitt. “Episcopal has taught us how to be respectful and wholeheartedly unselfish.”

Founded in 1785, The Episcopal Academy is a PreK-12, coeducational, independent, day school that offers excellent academics, competitive athletics, diverse arts, strong community outreach, and superb facilities. The school offers a college-preparatory curriculum that blends time-honored approaches to education with new ways of learning that are aimed at preparing boys and girls for the world of tomorrow. The school’s mission is to challenge and nurture Mind, Body, and Spirit, and to inspire boys and girls to lead lives of purpose, faith, and integrity.

For more information on The Episcopal Academy and their Class of 2024 graduates, visit www.episcopalacademy.org

Four Diamonds has selected Litali Zou, a sophomore at Conestoga High School, as a member of the 2024-2025 Mini-THON Ambassador program.

Previously known as “Mini-THON Student Leadership Council,” Mini-THON Ambassadors will be the voice of the Mini-THON in their schools and communities.

They will take their passion for conquering childhood cancer and Mini-THON experience to assist Mini-THON schools through networking events and online platforms.

Working with the Four Diamonds Mini-THON Liaisons, Ambassadors will provide input to hone the program for adaptability and success.

Litali Zou will serve as an advocate and leader for Four Diamonds, Mini-THON and more than 90,000 students who are on a mission to conquer childhood cancer.

During the 2023-2024 school year, over 210 schools participated in a Four Diamonds Mini-THON event to help bring hope to Four Diamonds families.

Mini-THON programs are modeled after the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, or THON, the world’s largest student-run philanthropy.

Since 1993, Mini-THON has raised more than $64 million For The Kids®. The funds are used to drive the discovery of new and improved treatments for childhood cancer by supporting the work of more than 90 researchers at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital and Penn State College of Medicine.

Four Diamonds also supports families by covering all medical expenses not paid for by insurance for every eligible child.

Zou states, “to me, Mini-THON is a way to connect with my community and help those in need. Seeing my school come together to celebrate something so important inspired me to continue my commitment to Mini-THON. In addition, Mini-THON’s motto, ‘For the Kids,’ spoke to me on a deep level as I was reminded that these kids are suffering and not able to experience the true freedom of childhood. Inspired by their braveness, I decided that Mini-THON was an organization I wanted to commit my time and leadership to.”

Conestoga High School exceeded the goal of $25,000 ($25,233.16) and had over 300 participants from the student body at the event on March 15th, the highest number of students to attend to date.

The lunches will be distributed on weekdays, beginning Monday, June 24, 2024, from noon until 1 p.m. at the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Center, located at 104 Holland Ave. in Ardmore. The final date for meal distribution will be August 30, 2024.

To receive free lunches, children must be registered in advance. Parents and guardians can sign their children up by reaching out to Neighbors Helping Neighbors, by calling LMSD Nutritional Services at 610-645-1934 or 610-645-1991, or by emailing: husseim@lmsd.org or stokesk@lmsd.org.

All students attending LMSD Summer Programs can receive free breakfast at school. At lunch, students who qualify for free or reduced lunches can receive those. All other students can buy lunch at school.

An awards ceremony was held last month in Hill’s Center For The Arts.

The following organizations received grants from the council: The Arts Bubble; Shady Hollow Assisted Riding; Second Wind Bicycles; the Pottstown Historical Society; Pottstown GoFourth!; Hearts of Humanity Community Development Corporation; Good Samaritan Services; The Ricketts Center of Boyertown Area Multi-Service; Be ReZilient; Animal House Project and Trellis for Tomorrow.

The council was created in 2008 through a gift to The Hill by the late Charles Frank III, Class of ’59, and his wife, Elizabeth “Betty” Frank. The Franks’ goal was to encourage students to learn about the value and processes of philanthropy; develop life-long habits of volunteerism and “giving back;” and provide funds to nonprofits that enhance the lives of Pottstown-area residents.

The 12 Student Philanthropy Council members are elected after an application process that looks for students’ genuine interest in altruistic endeavors and in serving the community where Hill makes its home.

This year a record number of applicants — 30 — requested a total of $147,789.

“Ultimately, we made our selection with several factors in mind. We hoped to fund some relatively new programs that had never applied to the SPC before,” said Sophie Walsh, student philanthropy council co-president and a sixth form/senior from Pittsburgh. “We wanted to support a range of causes, from food insecurity and education to historic preservation and mental and physical wellness. Also, we aimed to leave an impact on a variety of demographics, from young children to senior citizens.”

“If we could, we would have funded each applicant. Needless to say, this process fulfills the founders’ goal of educating us, as students, about the heart-wrenching but ultimately rewarding experience encountered by philanthropists,” said Atticus Short, co-president of the council and a sixth form/senior from Chicago.