Hundreds of Pennridge School District staff members returned to the district on Monday morning August 19 for a convocation following summer break.
The staff spent the morning getting to know more about Superintendent Angelo Berrios and his goals, mission, and plans to energize staff members for the 2024-2025 school year. They also heard from keynote speaker Dr. Mark Hoffman, director of the Bucks County IU, who was selected by Berrios, said a district press release.
Berrios, who officially started his role as Pennridge superintendent at the end of October 2023, said he wanted his first convocation at Pennridge to be more about connections than anything else.
“The energy and enthusiasm among the Pennridge School District staff are truly inspiring, said Berrios. “Dr. Hoffman’s role as our keynote speaker at this year’s convocation was an honor, setting a positive and ambitious tone for the academic year ahead. With this momentum, we are well-positioned to make a meaningful impact on our students’ educational experiences. I am proud to lead this district as we continue to prioritize student success and growth.”
In addition to Berrios and Hoffman, staff also heard motivating messages of encouragement from Pennridge School Board President Ron Wurz; Pennridge Educational Foundation President Jim Valletta, and a very special guest, “Dr. Oscar.”
Oscar Schumacher, a second grade student at Guth Elementary School, starred in a video in which he gave the staff members, ”7 Tips from Dr. Oscar: How to Have a Great School Year.”
Schumacher received a standing ovation from the hundreds of staff members after his video played. The event concluded with the McFadden and Whitehead song, “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now” as the staff attended a complimentary breakfast before heading to their schools for professional development, said the release.