On Saturday, March 8th, the Foundation for Pottstown Education held its 10th Annual Celebration of the Arts. More than 90 guests attended this year’s event, which highlighted some of the arts in the Pottstown School District. The evening was capped off with the Pottstown School District’s High School Musical, Chicago, Teen Edition.
Upon entering the event and during the hors’ oeuvres portion, one of the High School Ensembles directed by District Music Chair Nancy Mest entertained guests. The ensemble also played during the dinner portion of the event. Guests could also view artwork created by our Pottstown High School students under the direction of the District’s Art Chair, Beth Yoder.
After a brief welcoming by the Foundation’s Special Events’ Chair, Sue Yocom, and their Executive Director, the attendees were treated to a buffet-style dinner prepared by the Pottstown High School Culinary Arts Program and Chef Steven Irick. The dinner culminated with desserts of caramel popcorn and a special caramel cake in celebration of the Foundation’s 15th anniversary as well as the 40th anniversary of its predecessor, Pride In Pottstown Public School, also known as PIPPS.
A short program updating our guests with the Foundation: Past, present, and Future. Presenting the history and accomplishments of the Foundation was Dr. Myra Forrest, former Administrator for the Pottstown School District and former Director of the Foundation for Pottstown Education and current Education Advocate for the Pottstown Area Health and Wellness Foundation. One of the accomplishments that Dr. Forrest presented was the founding of the Early College Program, a dual enrollment program in conjunction with the Montgomery County Community College, which pays the tuition and textbooks for up to 30 credits for selected PHS juniors and seniors.
Speaking to our present was the current Foundation President, Georgette Howell. Georgette is an Associate Professor at Montgomery County Community College in the Exercise Science and Wellness Department. Georgette shared that the Foundation continues to raise funds to provide experiences to the students of the Pottstown School District, which enhances their education. Funds are needed for field trips, library, and art equipment as well as many other areas. She encouraged the guests to donate and to become a monthly donor through our Front Row.
Leticia Santiago, the Foundation’s Vice President and incoming President, shared her thoughts on the Foundation’s Future. Leticia is the Associate Management Consultant for Travelers and is a PHS Alum. Leticia used the letters of FUTURE to share her vision. Fostering Alumni Engagement and Outreach, Unwavering Commitment to Increasing Gifts, Transformative Educational Experiences, Uniting the Community, Resources and Equipment for Success, and Empowering Every Student.
During the event, three Foundation Board members were recognized as they entered the final months of their terms on the board. Judy Green, Georgette Howell, and Sue Yocom are all retiring as they have served for three three-year terms. Joe Rusiewicz recognized Georgette, who served as the Vice President and as President during her tenure. Cindy Whitley recognized Judy Green, who served all nine years as the Chair of the Governance Committee. Kenil Patel recognized Sue Yocom, who served all nine years as the Special Events Committee Chair.
The evening ended with the High School production of Chicago: Teen Edition. Besides the actors, the students were also involved in the costume and set design, the orchestra, as well as ushers. This was the eleventh High School/District musical produced by High School Math Teacher Bob Decker and directed by Chris Sperat, Kindergarten Teacher at Lincoln Elementary School. It was announced that next year will be a District Musical, meaning students in grades five and up will perform Disney’s Descendants.
