The Pennridge School Board celebrated its most seasoned teacher Monday, May 12 with a commendation ceremony.
Allen Androkites, a woodshop teacher and STEM coordinator, recently announced his retirement from the district after 44 years, capping off a career of “tireless service” and the “finest craftsmanship,” said the district.
“While we have several exceptional retirees this year, the weight of 44 years paired with the legacy he leaves made it essential for me to offer this special recognition,” said Superintendent Angelo Berrios at Monday’s school board meeting.
In addition to teaching, Androkites mentors inspiring teachers and assists students with woodworking projects on weekends. Many of his students have gone on to become STEM teachers and specialists in woodworking and craftsmanship, said the district.
“For 44 years, Allen Androkites has been showing students what true craftsmanship and passion for that craft looks like, and dozens of his students have gone on to teach the next generation of artisans and start their own businesses of high quality woodworking,” said Communications Director David Thomas.
As the district presented Androkites with a commendation plaque, several of Androkites’s former students, colleagues and friends made a surprise visit to the meeting, greeting him with warm smiles and hugs.
“I was very surprised,” said Androkites. “To have the plaque and all my former students come up, it was incredible.”
Androkites said that he developed a passion for woodworking in middle school. He eventually started woodworking at home before pursuing a professional career in the field.
“It was one of the first jobs that I wanted the clock to actually slow down,” said Androkites.
Asked about the key to his long career, Androkites cited his passion and colleagues.
“The journey and the people I’ve met that are professional woodworkers and how friendly they’ve been to me, it’s just an incredible time,” said Androkites.
Androkites also pointed to the immense value of woodworking, noting the lasting impact of his students’ creations.
“The students here, they’re making family heirlooms,” said Androkites. “It may not mean much to them now, but down the road, their children, their grandkids, it will mean something to them.”
During retirement, Androkites plans to continue his passion for woodworking at home.
“Whether it’s guitars, ukuleles or or chicken boxes, I look at it as my opportunity to build the stuff that I wanted to build but I couldn’t because I was helping students,” said Androkites. “Just continue with what I love to do.”
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