Haddon Township Teachers:

What they mean to us

What follows is more than 50 responses from current
and past students and parents from the Haddon Township
School District. All of their experiences tell the
same story our teachers change our lives, and
often.
Please read each response for a different account of how
our teachers (our districts greatest asset) have taught us so
many valuable lessons.
Responses range from alumni of the HTHS Class of 1986 to the
HTHS Class of 2020.

Compiled by: Logan Peterson

February 2015

PRESENTED TO: HADDON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION

CCD: THE PUBLIC

Haddon Township Teachers: What they mean to us.

Lindsey Peterson (HTHS Class of 1986)

The high academic standards that our Haddon Township students achieve, through the
knowledge our teachers bestow on them, can be seen in various statistical rankings of our town
versus others. However, our teachers give our students several gifts that cannot be seen, yet
will be carried by our children throughout their lives. They start giving these gifts in elementary
school and continue giving them through high school, and beyond as mentors. They give
empathy, and a listening ear when needed. They give social guidance and tools to help
maneuver through that difficult time of adolescence. They write countless recommendations and
help our students discover their path in life. I am so thankful to have had their influence on my
three children and myself, and hope we can retain such proven teachers and such wonderful
members of our community.

Patti Angelotti (HTHS Class of 2013)

Mr. Olivo was so passionate about his job. He didn't just teach because he had to, he
was extremely obsessed with letting students know the stories of the past. Every day Mr. Olivo
didn't show slides, instead he would just tell stories. Sometimes they were his own personal
stories, and sometimes they were the stories of influential people, but no matter where the story
came from he entranced his students with a version of the past that made them feel like they
were there. He specifically influenced my experience at HT and I consider myself to have really
grown as a person from Mr. Olivos teaching.

Current 6th Grade RMS Student

My 6th grade red team teachers are like family. They make me laugh, make me happy
when I'm sad, and they make learning so much fun. I didn't like school so much until I came to
RMS. Now I love it. I couldn't imagine life without them!

Chris Stine (HTHS Class of 2008)

is a teacher because he enjoyed his experience in Steve Chard's classroom.

Maggie McCabe (HTHS Class of 2016)

is able to raise support and awareness for LGBTQ issues in our community because
of Mr. Turkot, the director of the HTHS Alphabet Soup Club.

Alyssia Sewall (HTHS Class of 2002)

I am a second generation Haddon Township graduate. My parents moved to Haddon
Township because of my fathers experience in HTsschool system. I attended Haddon
Township schools from preschool at Strawbridge to a graduating senior at HTHS.All of my
teachers encouraged me and left lasting impressions. They didnt just teach me academics,
they taught me life lessons I use everyday. After I left HT I went on to earn my BA in Elementary
Education. My inspiration were my teachers at Van Sciver, mainly Pam Interlante. Pam is still
at Van Sciver and was my mentor when I came back to Van Sciver to student teach in the same
1st grade classroom I sat in many years before. She still, 24 years later, encourages me and
helps me be a better teacher. In high school, I found my home in the preforming arts wing and
English hallway. I was not the best student, but my teachers helped foster my strengths and
allowed me to find my individual voice. They gave me a safe place to be myself and to find out
who I wanted to be. My teachers went above and beyond their job descriptions.The teachers I
had genuinely wanted to see me succeed and challenged me to work hard to earn what I
wanted to achieve.
Presented to: Haddon Township Board of Education
Ccd: The Public

Haddon Township Teachers: What they mean to us.

I still am in contact with some former and current HT teachers. I know they care about
all of theirpast and present students. The current teachersoften bring home grading, go to
students sporting events, stay after school to help a struggling student, dress up in costume for
theme days, buy supplies with their own money, run fundraisers for student activities, and
collect donations for needy students and their families. The teachers dedication to their
students is one of the many reasons my husband and I are raising our 3 children here in
Haddon Township.

Rachel DAgostino (HTHS Class of 2014)

I think it is important to note that all of these teachers are so invested in us. They are all
here to foster our growth but this goes outside the classroom. How many teachers are willing to
keep relationships with students and meet outside of school? At HTHS, a lot. HT teachers really
connect with the students individually and that is a unique experience to our school. We are
really cared for as a person and not just considered a number on a list.

Brenna Sanford (HTHS Class of 2014)

was taught by her teachers how to think, read, and write critically which, in turn, is
helping her immensely in college.
created several bonds with her teachers who genuinely wanted her (along with the
other students) to succeed and do well.
was changed entirely as a person after taking Honors 11 English with Ms. Baresel.
She taught Brenna to be more open-minded, to see past the surface, to dissect pieces of work
or literature, and find deeper meanings and hidden symbols, to push herself to her full potential
as not just a student, but as a person, to find the beauty in language and speaking eloquently, to
love the art of writing, to be a creative thinker, to push herself and her boundaries. Ms. Baresel
inspired Brenna to be the best student she could be and Brenna will forever be grateful for her
influential and gifted teaching abilities. Whenever Brenna gets the chance, she speak about Ms.
Baresel and how she changed her life. Brenna now lives her life with the thought of Ms. Baresel
and her teachings instilled in her mind.

Alexis Pietruszka (HTHS Class of 2014)

Ms. McDermott became a influence on my confidence by investing time into my school
work, caring about my personal life, and having faith in me as a person. With more than just
swim team, she gave me opportunities and jobs to carry out for her because she had faith in me
and my abilities and that built my confidence as a person. Still to this day I am in touch with her
and thank her for that.

Nicole DeAngelo (HTHS Class of 2013)

owes the ease of filing taxes and the mere existence of her retirement fund at age 21
to Mr. Dale's life skills class.

Kevin Dougherty (HTHS Class of 2014)

During baseball and football Mr. Cortese always used to say if you're on time you're 15
minutes late and I took that to heart and still use it like everyday whether it's getting to class or
getting to work. I'm pretty good with getting to places on time and I can definitely say that's
because of how Mr. C. helped me learn how important that is during high school. Also I'm the
oldest child in my family and the whole college process has changed a lot since my parents
Presented to: Haddon Township Board of Education
Ccd: The Public

Haddon Township Teachers: What they mean to us.

went through it so I basically had no idea what I was doing and Mrs. Fredericks was there for
me the whole time and helped me get through it. Whenever I had a question I could go to her.

Former HTHS Student (HTHS Class of 2014)

One of my most memorable Township teacher stories was from the last day of class
senior year and it was my last class and of course it was Mr. Burke. I know he's not a teacher at
the school anymore, but he represents them all so he gave our class this speech that didn't
really surprise me since its him but at the same time not many history teachers would take the
time to share a special piece of advice like this. He told us how he genuinely enjoyed our class
throughout the year and that he was actually impressed because he knows how hard it can be
at the end of the day and being a senior. He went on to say something that really touched
everyone he said a lot of people will say that high school are the best years of your life and he
said they're wrong... The best years of your life are the ones that are happening in the now at all
times. He basically explained that we are all going to be bigger than what high school is and that
we are going to actually do things now. I know it seems so simple but to a scared senior girl who
was about to graduate it meant the world. (note: the student who said this hopes to one day
work for the Haddon Township School District)

Former HTHS Student (HTHS Class of 2014)

My experience with an HTHS teacher has to be with Mrs. Fredericks. I was kind of on
my own with the entire college process (I didn't get much help from my parents), but she guided
me through it all and helped as much as she could. She took a ton of weight off of my
shoulders.

Former HTHS Student (HTHS Class of 2014)

was able to overcome obsessive compulsive disorder and learned how to not let it
affect her schoolwork anymore with guidance and support from Mrs. Fredericks.
changed her normal way of thinking through learning how to think outside the box and
about diversity and its importance from Mr. Tomashek.
was able to develop important listening skills and also study skills as a student in Mr.
Olivo's class.
has Mr. Burke to thank for all the important life skills that have helped her so much in
college.She also has him to thank for sparking her interest in politics, history, and for making her
learning experience enjoyable.

Former HTHS student (HTHS Class of 2014)

got interested in running from Joni Evers even though it had nothing to do with what
she learned in the classroom. This helped her develop valuable leadership skills, a strong work
ethic, and made her disciplined. That aside, Ms. Evers helped her get help when she had an
eating disorder.
got extensive help from Ms. Gess when it came to contacting college coaches during
the college application process. Ms. Gess also met outside of school time to help set goals and
train for running.

Kyle Wade (HTHS Class of 2014)

learned life lessons and abundance of leadership skills through soccer coach and life
mentor Jim Bonder.
Presented to: Haddon Township Board of Education
Ccd: The Public

Haddon Township Teachers: What they mean to us.

Brenna Smith (Class of 2014)

realized how much she liked sewing and could be studying a completely different
major right now if it wasn't for her 8th/11th/12th grade teacher, Mrs. Scully. She influenced her
by her love of sewing and her ability to teach all that she knew.

Cheyenne Granate-Sharav (Class of 2014)

was able to develop confidence in writing, which was never possible for her before she
had Ms. Baresel who even took time out of her lunch periods everyday or after school quite
often to work on things.
is doing very well in her engineering studies at Drexel University thanks to math skills
and study habits taught by Ms. Gess.
thinks that Mr. Tomashek was just an all-around great teacher, and was key to her
development as an all-around learner.
The teaching styles of the three above teachers went above and beyond what was
required by the curriculum. It was clear that they truly cared about their job and the students
rather than just doing it just to make a living.

Erin Butrica (HTHS Class of 2014)

thanks Mr. Steltz for coaching the team every day of winter track even though he was
just a volunteer and wasnt getting paid a dime. She also thanks him for being the reason for her
success in high jump and hurdles.

Chris Loper (HTHS Class of 2014)

Mr. Paul Steltz, a wise and noble man, helped me in the winter off season prepare for
spring track by writing out a running/workout plan, attending meets and practices (after which
critiquing me and giving me helpful advice or tips), and meeting me in the below freezing
temperatures on early weekends to watch and construct my running workouts even though he
was not paid.

Mike McCutcheon (HTHS Class of 2013)

Former HT teacher Joe Burke, current teacher Tyler Tomashek, and retired HT teacher
Dom Olivo had a profound impact on my life in regards to education. Not only did Tyler
Tomashek and Joe Burke support me in the classroom, but they attended and even worked at
wrestling matches and soccer games and helped work with student athletes to help them
complete their workload while balancing other activities which is vital for both the real world and
college. All three of these teachers made learning enjoyable for me which I struggled with at
times in high school. They taught me more than just history, they taught me the profound
importance of education and that it can be exciting. They instilled a passion in me that I used to
declare a history minor at the University of Delaware and also to pursue my passions in other
fields including Economics and Finance. These teachers made learning less of a chore and
more of a passion for me, and without them, I don't know if I could have found what I wanted to
do in life.

Brittany Chard (HTHS Class of 2014)

was convinced in becoming a business major in college thanks to Mrs. Austins
marketing class.
is thriving as a dance minor thanks to the stage skills taught by Linda Webb.
Presented to: Haddon Township Board of Education
Ccd: The Public

Haddon Township Teachers: What they mean to us.

Tyler Easterday (HTHS Class of 2013)

HTHS was an amazing part of my life and very few people care more about the school,
it's faculty, and its overall well being than me. I think that each and every employee in HTHS
goes above and beyond their expected duties to make sure they set their students up to grow
into responsible adults and succeed in whatever they feel is possible. I am a college baseball
player and I couldn't be here without my hard workouts and dedication in the weight room that
was selflessly proved by Coach Dale at 5:45am everyday. I learned what it means to truly show
support for friends, family, and community when Mr. Bill visited my family in the hospital while
my brother was sick last year. I am four years out of high school, and he still came to support
us. Numerous teachers taught me to just put my head down and grind' through the work which
allows me to have the high GPA I carry now, because the work you put in pays off. Mr. Wister
and Mr. Bonder taught me that teams, and athletics, build family-like bonds which transfer on
and off the fields. And every teacher I've ever had at HT has made me believe that education
will take you a long way and that being a good person - who cares about everyone and
everything - and being conscious of doing the right thing all the time will take you much further
in life.

Evan Menk (HTHS Class of 2013)

Mr Steltz: Took it upon himself to talk to me personally, and gave me the motivation to
handle my responsibilities and get through any challenges I had to face.
Mr. Wister: Shared his love of history with our class, and brought excitement to be
there everyday.
Ms. Russell: Being the most patient and supportive science teacher I have ever had.
She gave extra time after class to explain her lesson in depth so I could understand it.
Ms. Kiick: Even though I wasn't an art student, I helped out in the art room when I
could. She was always thankful, and interested in my opinion on artwork. She always said hello
to me, and asked me how I was doing everyday.
Mrs. Austin: The most supportive woman I have ever met, and she will always be in
my heart for her generosity, and overall genuine kindness. She has a passion for any class she
teaches, and goes out of her way to help ANY student in need. She is a great person.

Jonathan Edmonson (HTHS Class of 2013)

is inspired to become a journalist and pursue the world of cinema thanks to HTHS
teacher Ms. Baresel.
was exposed to the world of theater and given countless opportunities in theatre
thanks to HTHS teacher Mrs.Webb.

Sam Gaylert (HTHS Class of 2015)

I'm planning on majoring in applied math in college. Originally, I had no real fondness of
math, and often considered it my least favorite subject. However, that changed when a teacher
showed me new approaches to math which made it more enjoyable and helped me discover
what I hope to be a lifelong passion. That teacher was Pam Gess in my sophomore year
Algebra II class.

Devon Turner (HTHS Class of 2013)

realized she wanted to be a teacher and attend college because of Mr. Ottinger. Mr.
Farnham also influenced her to want to get into special education.
Presented to: Haddon Township Board of Education
Ccd: The Public

Haddon Township Teachers: What they mean to us.

Nick Marino (HTHS Class of 2014)

Says that literally every single teacher I had at HT has shaped me to be who I am
today.

Current HTSD Parent

I have 3 children. An HTHS graduate, a 7th grader, and a first grader. I can't even give
you all the reasons the teachers of HT have gone above and beyond to help my children. From
sports to extra help after school. I have had so many great experiences with these teachers.
Now that I work at Jennings I see even more how the teachers and staff help our children
everyday!

Luke Kessler (HTHS Class of 2014)

My (former) teachers deserve nothing but the best. I scored very well on the AP Calc.
test and received college credit for it because Ms. McDermott held tons of practice sessions
outside of the class and overall went above and beyond to prepare us for the test. Additionally, I
probably wouldnt be competing in NCAA Division 1 athletics if it wasnt for Mr. Steltz's constant
guidance and support through the numerous injuries I had my senior year, he wasnt even a
paid coach, but he cared a lot.

Olivia Duca (HTHS Class of 2013)

learned to appreciate leadership positions by working with the Student Council
advisors such as Mr. S and Mrs. Fredericks. Through these experiences I have acquired skills
that have taught me so much.
has become an overall better student as each teacher provided useful guidance and
advice.
was able to successfully choose the college of my dreams which wouldnt have been a
smooth process without my guidance counselor, Mrs. Fredericks, and her awesome team.

Ben Brookes (HTHS Class of 2014)

Tyler Tomashek taught me that just because you have an unpopular opinion doesn't
mean you're wrong. Having him as a teacher helped me focus on what I wanted to do in the
future and not to worry about who doubts you. The skills he taught me is helping me excel in
college.

Former HTHS Student (HTHS Class of 2014)

On the Disney trip I had to go to the hospital. Five or six chaperones were with me while
I was in the first aid building. It made me feel safe and I knew that they cared. They made sure
that nothing bad happened and Mrs. Scully went on the ambulance with me to the ER. The rest
of the trip I had a chaperone near me at all times. It might not sound like a big deal, but to me it
was. I was so scared and they gave me so much support. Mrs. Frederick's was a life saver
senior year. I went to her with problems - all types. She supported me and gave me some of the
best advice. She also was there for me when I needed to vent. She was one the best guidance
counselors I've ever had and I wish she was my counselor in college. Mrs. Smith was an
amazing math teacher. Any question I had, she would answer it to the best of her ability. I
learned a lot from her class and that helped me in my pre-calc college class when my professor
decided he didn't want to teach us. I was set because of how strong a foundation Mrs. Smith
had built for me.
Presented to: Haddon Township Board of Education
Ccd: The Public

Haddon Township Teachers: What they mean to us.

Current HTSD Parent

My son, who has Asperger Syndrome, had a very hard time transitioning from middle
school to high school. His English teacher, Joe Turkot, would frequently stay after class (English
was my son's last period) and just talk to him for at least an hour, sometimes two. They would
talk about school, friends, current events and sometimes just life in general. This was all done
on Mr. Turkot's own free time. It really helped my son a great deal that year and made such an
impact on him. I know it really meant a lot to him and to me. Mr. Cortese, who was the special
education aide in that class, often stayed and hung out for those conversations.
These two men embody how a teacher who loves what they do and loves their kids acts.
Neither one of us will ever forget how they made my son feel.
Also, when we first moved to this district my son was in 4th grade and had a hard time
finding his place. We were still trying to get a handle on his issues. Teacher Sharon Raible was
amazing! She was instrumental in helping my son "fit in" and was so very patient when there
were problems. She never gave up on him. As a single mother, I appreciated her constant
support and "therapy" of sorts, instead of getting daily phone calls about my son's issues or
disruptions. My son definitely felt safe going to her with his problems or about bullying that he
was experiencing. As our first "taste" of what the HT school district was like, it was a good one!
My son is a junior this year, has tons of friends and loves school!! He has worked very
hard on his own to get where he is, socially, but we also owe a debt of gratitude to some very
special educators for their constant help along the way.

Gina Aristarco (HTHS Class of 2014)

I owe where I am, and what I am studying to the teachers and faculty at HTHS. No
other school that I know has more caring and nurturing teachers who help students excel like in
Haddon Township.
I am currently studying at a fashion school in New York City, which never would have
happened without taking Mrs. Austin's marketing class during my junior year. I was unsure of
what I wanted to study, but I knew it was going to be something in the business field. I did not
necessarily want to go into a general business major because I felt that I needed to harness my
creativity with my schoolwork as well. One class period, Mrs. Austin had a representative from
the Art Institute in Philadelphia present for the class. She elaborated on Visual Merchandising
and Fashion Merchandising, and I was hooked instantly. Now, I am at the beginning of my
second semester of my freshman year with a 3.9 GPA in Marketing with a concentration in
Fashion Merchandising.
In my management, as well as my marketing class, I am excelling because I still kept the
notes that I took in Mr. Grandinetti's class. I was actually able to use the end-of-year
entrepreneurship project that we worked on all semester last year in high school to help my
understanding of the material. When my professor is discussing business plans and work ethics,
I know exactly what he is saying because Mr. G had us actually working on all of those things
which took it beyond just the hypothetical situation.
I excelled in my math course last semester and got the highest grade on the final
because of Ms. McDermott. She helped me every week after school with calculus, and made
sure that I was grasping the information she taught in class. Thanks to her, I have been
recommended by my professor to become a tutor in the math center at my school.
I was challenged like no other in my Honors English course taught by Ms. Baresel. She
was tough, intimidating, and one of the best teachers I had at HTHS. I learned how to think
critically in her class, and write with strong supporting evidence which allowed me to get an A in
my English Composition class last semester. I also began writing for my school's online
Presented to: Haddon Township Board of Education
Ccd: The Public

Haddon Township Teachers: What they mean to us.

magazine because a tutor in the writing center was able to see my mature level of writing. None
of this would be possible without Ms. Baresel because she was the catalyst that allowed me to
realize what I was capable of.
Linda Webb gave me the most opportunities within the French department and the
Performing Arts Department as well. I was able to be a Dance Captain for the Spring Musical all
four years and help choreograph the middle school musicals as well. She trusted me from
freshman to senior year with the shows, and allowed me to express my creative mind which is
pivotal in High School. I took French every year of high school, and even got the chance to
travel overseas with Mrs. Webb during the spring trip. She brought us to her favorite places in
France, and allowed us to experience the language on a completely higher level. I am looking
into studying abroad one semester of school, and Paris is on the top of my list.

Current HTSD Parent

My child was very apprehensive about starting middle school this past September. It
was so bad that I considered taking the path of homeschooling. I spoke with the teachers and
they went out of their way to make my child feel safe and comfortable at the middle school. My
child not only is learning so very much, but misses the teachers on the weekends!! I have
watched my child grow and become confident and happy at school. My child's teachers at RMS
have changed our lives and I am forever grateful.

Salena Silveria (HTHS Class of 2013)

I am continuing my swimming career and coaching a local YMCA swim team because
of the drive and unconditional motivation I received from Maura McDermott during my 4 years
on the varsity swim team.My senior year she actually coached alone, due to budget cuts, and
took on the job by herself and still did an incredible job.

Current HTHS Student (Class of 2015)

I owe all of my success with getting into college to Ms. Baresel. She not only tutored me
outside of school with my SATs, but she also taught me how to become a better writer. She
proofread essays, helped me with vocab, and was a boost of confidence when I needed one.
She did all of this on her personal time because she cares about her students. I would not have
been accepted into the schools I applied to if it were not for Ms. Baresel. Also, although Ms.
Petulla is a new teacher, she has made a very large impact on this school. She has spent
countless hours after school and on the weekends planning events and working out dates with
the Student Council. She is the unsung hero of the school. She does all of the things behind the
scenes to make every school event run smoothly.

Kevin Clements (Class of 2014)

So, I will take it teacher by teacher.
Mr. Tomashek: I'll never forget asking him at an all day wrestling match in which he
announced the entire thing, if he got paid. He looked at me and said for what? He sent me to
college with a whole new outlook on life. Anytime I needed to talk to him he would make it a
priority to make time. He made me a happier person in general, I admire his teaching
techniques.
Mr. Steltz: Immediately freshman year, he saw potential in me and helped out in any way
he could. Never forget when HE asked to speak to ME after school about the people I was
walking the halls with. He constantly looked out for me.
Presented to: Haddon Township Board of Education
Ccd: The Public

Haddon Township Teachers: What they mean to us.

Dave Schmidt: He is the reason that I stuck with band and joined Jazz class. Always
energetic, happy, and willing to help.
Ms. McDermott: Taught me to reach maximum potential in swim and in classroom
many life lessons.

Frank Jackson (HTHS Class of 2014)

Mr. Tomashek really made me think about my life. I was always stubborn and thought
that there was only one answer to something. His class taught me that in order to really look at
a situation, you need to take a step back and be neutral before you take action.

Current Middle School Student (HTHS Class of 2020)

If Im having a bad day or am a little sad my teachers always know how to cheer me up.
They brighten my day.

Parent from Mr. McCloskeys Class

Said that He took the time to call me to say it was a privilege to teach my daughter. Mr.
McCloskey respects my child as a listener and observer putting real value on her words when
focus is generally on ones mere participation as a speaker in class.

Parent from Mrs. Jakubowskis Class (Student is in HTHS Class of 2024)

Nearly a year after losing a family member my daughter still talks about how
comforting and helpful Mrs. Jakubowski, her elementary school teacher, was during that time.

Nelson Remetz (HTHS Class of 2012)

The teachers who didn't matter to me at HT were far and few between. Mr. Tomashek
(sociology), Frau Principato (German), Mr. Olivo (history), Mr. Weichman (wood shop), Mrs.
McKenzie (chorus), and many more. These teachers really meant a lot to me. I could talk on
end about all of them, but the one I'm going to specify is Mrs. McKenzie. Music has become the
cornerstone of my life, and the first time that I ever played the guitar or even sang was with Mrs.
McKenzie. I always had music in me, but she was the one to see it and pursue it. Not because
she had to, but because that was her nature. It was her nature to indulge students in the
passions that she saw in them. She specifically took me aside and instructed me on guitar. If it
wasn't for that I have no idea where I'd be right now. I play guitar every day now for hours on
end and nothing interests me more. Music is pure expression of the soul and Mrs. McKenzie
taught me that. I can't think of anyone I could thank more for that knowledge other than Mrs.
McKenzie.

Luke Hoheisel (HTHS Class of 2014)

Ms. Baresel: For helping me see beyond the surface of movies and books to discover
their life-changing messages.
Mr. Burke: For giving me new insight into the power of community and citizenship.
Mr. Mann: For showing me the power of language to understand and appreciate new
cultures.

Current HTSD Parent

I am new to the school district, but not new to town. We have lived here for about 8
years, in 2 different houses. My daughter is in 1st grade and I could not be more utterly thrilled
Presented to: Haddon Township Board of Education
Ccd: The Public

Haddon Township Teachers: What they mean to us.

with her teacher, principal and secretary. These 3 people are really the only people that I
encounter on a regular basis.
Funny story, we actually lived in Cherry Hill last year...for all of 10 months. Why you may
ask? Because of the schools. We sent our daughter to kindergarten last September in Cherry
Hill, a day I was reluctantly dreaming about for a few years. I thought it would be wonderful.
Oh my goodness was I wrong. We lasted ONE month. We homeschooled her for the
remainder of the year. The teacher barely communicated with me, yelled at me and was overall
miserable. The principal was so business like, void of feeling, and when I pulled my daughter
neither he nor the teacher even called to ask why. No one did.
So I homeschooled her. We made it work. I felt I had no other option. So, come spring
when we had to make a decision to try the public school again, pay for private, or just move
AGAIN to a smaller district, I called a principal (not in HT) to discuss all of it. He had 2 open
slots/appointments in the next 2 weeks, both which did not work with my husbands work
schedule, who commutes over the Schukylhil for work. But that didnt matter to him. This was a
big decision and I needed my husband there to help make it. Another turnoff! Basically I was
not comfortable with what I have seen to date at that point, and I wanted to move. We pay
enough NJ property taxes as it is, paying for private school wasn't really financially feasible for
us.
We were blessed that a house in HT literally fell into our laps. So we moved back to
town here last May and enrolled her in 1st grade for the next school year, which was a beautiful
transition for her. Mrs Keough is the best! My husband and I are both teachers. We know
teachers. She is incredible! I taught for 8 years between 2 different districts...I know school
systems. Strawbridge school has been better than I could have imagined in my wildest dreams.
Understanding, thoughtful, good academically, nice children overall, and the list goes on!

Micaela Miller (HTHS Class of 2013)

Four years ago as a sophomore in high school, I had a history teacher who changed my
life. He taught in a way that allowed the information to stay with me as a sophomore in college.
It wasn't strictly memorization; it was pure learning. Even today, four years since I've had his
class, I still remember his explanation for the Night of the Long Knives. He turned class into a
great environment, and I looked forward to going every single day. Not only was he so
dedicated and passionate about teaching history, but he found ways to make students laugh
and keep theclass interesting. To this day, I still remember allof his stories, whether they were
highlighting his failures at T-ball, or talking about a one eyed dog. So thank you, Mr. Olivio, for
all you've done for the students of HTHS.

Current HTSD Parent

I have two girls in middle school and all of their teachers go above and beyond! I was
just sent home a letter with 24 positive post-it notes that my daughter received as part of an
activity in her class an activity orchestrated by her teacher. It was so nice to read and
celebrate with my daughter. Haddon Township teachers are the best of the best!

Brian Navarro (HTHS Class of 2013)

Mr. Bill is the only reason I won districts my junior year. He believed in me and always
told me I was going to win districts my first year of wrestling. So, I started to work hard because
of him always motivating me and giving me the confidence. So if it wasn't for him I wouldn't have
won or believed in myself the way I do now.
Presented to: Haddon Township Board of Education
Ccd: The Public

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Haddon Township Teachers: What they mean to us.

Current HTSD Student

Ms. Weber is not my actual teacher, but she teaches with two of my teachers. If I ever
need anything even if it is at lunch or after school, she has always been there for me to talk to.

Drew Sewall (HTHS Class of 2002)

I am a Haddon Township 2000 alum. My wife is a 2002 Haddon Township alum. Starting
since Pre-K both of us grew up in this school system and through it we were placed into a
position to go to good colleges. In 2008 we became home owners in Haddon Township. The
decision to buy here felt nature, for our families were close and we loved the town. But more
than that we had confidence in the people in which we would one day entrust our most precious
gift, our children. Today we have two kids with a third on the way and the day fast approaches
when our oldest son will be starting his first day of Pre-K himself. I am thankful for the Haddon
Township teachers in my life, I am thankful for the Haddon Township teachers in my wifes life
and I am thankful for the wonderful teachers that will be in my childrens life.

Logan Peterson (HTHS Class of 2014)

I do not hesitate even one second to say that I am who I am today entirely because of
who my HTSD teachers were to me. Every teacher I had made an impact on my life which has
stayed with me. I had a really hard time, socially, in middle school. Upon entering high school, I
was really taken under the wing of former teacher Mr. Swiecicki. He has been an incredible role
model in my life. We had lunch 3 times a week during my freshmen year and not once did he
mind. We talked about all kinds of things, and it was so nice to have that connection while
transitioning into high school. We still stay in touch and talk even though I am in college now.
And, at HT, the Mr. Swiecickis are not rare. So many teachers provide that level of nurture,
care, friendship, and support to the students it is incredible and so so special.

Presented to: Haddon Township Board of Education

Ccd: The Public

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