Pennridge staff members arrive at Pennridge High School for the district’s annual convocation. (Credit: David Thomas)
Hundreds of staff members across all schools and departments in the Pennridge School District gathered at Pennridge High School Monday, August 18 for the district’s annual convocation.
The event opened with a 30-minute speech from Superintendent Angelo Berrios’ goals, in which he outlined his goals, mission and plans for the 2025-2026 school year. Berrios also acknowledged some of the district’s achievements during the previous school year, from moving the high school graduation back to the high school field to record-breaking AP Test results to transparency tools like the formation of student and parent advisory councils and a parent survey, and more, said a Pennridge School District press release.
“It is always energizing to see our amazing staff gathered as one team, ready to hit the ground running,” said Berrios. “Convocation gives us the rare chance to be together, to celebrate what we accomplished last year, and to look ahead with focus and purpose to the goals in our mission and Comprehensive Plan. This year’s theme of legacy and innovation reminds us that while we honor the foundation built before us, we also have the responsibility to keep moving forward and shaping what comes next.”
Pennridge staff members gather in the high school auditorium Monday, Aug. 18 for the district’s annual convocation. (Credit: David Thomas)
Superintendent Angelo Berrios speaks at the convocation. (Credit: David Thomas)Berrios also welcomed dozens of new staff members, while thanking staff members for their hard work over the summer break, readying the buildings, grounds, buses, computers and everything else for the new school year. Many members of the newly formed Student Advisory Council were also recognized and thanked by the audience.
Some of the district’s 2025-2026 goals include preparing every student for success through future-ready college and career pathways that connect classroom learning to real-world experiences as well as fostering a safe, supportive culture where students feel valued and empowering them with the skills and mindset to adapt, innovate and lead, said the release.
In addition to Berrios, staff members also heard messages of encouragement from Pennridge School Board president Ron Wurz, Pennridge Educational Foundation president Paul Vollberg and “Dr. Oscar,” who returned for a second consecutive year.
Oscar Schumacher, an incoming third-grade student at Guth Elementary School, gave his perspective on the definition of legacy and how teachers can innovate to help students. Schumacher was well received by the staff members, who appreciated his fresh perspective.
School board president Ron Wurz speaks at the convocation. (Credit: David Thomas)
Superintendent Angelo Berrios introduces Oscar Schumacher, an incoming third-grade student at Guth Elementary School. (Credit: David Thomas)The event concluded with a complimentary brunch before staff members headed to their schools for professional development and classroom preparation, said the release.
