What a fantastic way to start Quarter Two at Garnet Valley High School. This November 4, the district recognized its Playmakers of the Month who are teachers and staff who went above and beyond to bring the Garnet Valley Instructional Playbook to life in their classrooms. Through clarity, engagement, modeling, ownership, and reflection, these educators exemplify what it means to make learning meaningful and lasting.
Start Strong – Clarity and Curiosity at the Core
Great lessons begin with clear direction and a spark of curiosity. Erin Fidler inspired curiosity through purposeful lesson openers, while Eryn Brady used effective bell ringers to focus learning right from the start. Jeff Adams, Brian Perlsweig, Cathy Kenny, Donna Gicking, Deb Knox, Meghan Arters, and Allison Burns all set a strong tone for learning with engaging, well-structured openings that connected students to key goals.
Model and Explain – Showing Students the Path to Success
Learning sticks when students see how it’s done. Allison Burns created a narrated “How-To” video on MLA formatting, letting students learn by seeing and doing. Lisa McGarry provided exemplary modeling and instruction in her work with May. Stefanie Ware, Claudia Buchanan, Joe Yohannan, Marc Panepinto, Cathy Kenny, Lauren Pessagno, Jen Rutecki, Donna Gicking, Deb Knox, and Sharon Swanick also demonstrated how explicit modeling deepens understanding and fosters success.
Get Everyone Involved – Participation Powers Progress
Engagement was at the forefront this month as teachers found creative ways to get every student involved. Katie Curry led a dynamic Gallery Walk that encouraged movement and interaction. Rocco Fantazzi, Nancy Kapolka, Lauren Pessagno, Jen Dooley, Laura Fite, Alison Windsor, and Jenna Stern fostered inclusive participation through strong routines and engaging activities. Allison Burns, Jen Rutecki, Brian Perlsweig, and Donna Gicking kept collaboration alive with interactive learning that ensured all voices were heard.
Promote Ownership – Empowering Independent Learners
When students take ownership, learning becomes personal. Jeff Adams used Notice and Wonder and Station Rotations to promote exploration and self-direction. Allison Burns and Jen Rutecki encouraged students to share insights and take responsibility for their work. Cathy Kenny, Donna Gicking, and Deb Knox reinforced independence and accountability across their classrooms.
Check for Understanding – Teaching Through Insight
Effective instruction means knowing what students truly understand. Melinda Waldman partnered with Ashley during Common Grounds to monitor learning and growth. Donna Gicking and Deb Knox also stood out for their responsive and thoughtful checks for comprehension.
Make Learning Stick – Reflection and Retention
The best learning lasts beyond the lesson. Jen Rutecki made Screen Smart GV memorable through a board game that turned learning into fun. Cathy Kenny, Donna Gicking, Deb Knox, and Sharon Swanick reinforced reflection and long-term learning through purposeful design and practice.
October Game Changers of the Month
This month’s Game Changers are Allison Burns and Lauren Pessagno, who consistently model best instructional practices, engage every learner, and create classroom environments where students thrive. Their creativity, teamwork, and dedication truly move our instructional culture forward.
As a symbol of their leadership and impact, Allison Burns - English and Lauren Pessagno- Spanish were presented with Changemaker Necklaces a reminder of the teamwork, excellence, and drive that keep GVHS moving ahead.
Congratulations to all our October Playmakers and Game Changers. Your passion, innovation, and commitment continue to make Garnet Valley a model of instructional excellence.
