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Arcola Spirit of Methacton Awards - May 2026
 
A certificate listing core values and recipients of the Spirit of Methacton Award is shown with port…

The May 2026 awardees representing Arcola Intermediate School are:

 

Professional Staff:

  • Dawn Newell
  • Sean McCracken


Support Staff:

  • Julie Mennerich
  • Dana Fornicola


Volunteers

  • Irene Garvin
  • Gina Stover


Students:

  • Morgan Doherty
  • Vinchi Stehr
A woman stands in a classroom holding a certificate, while in other panels, a man and woman present…

Dawn Newell - Special Education Teacher
Dawn Newell is a dedicated 7th grade learning support teacher who consistently goes above and beyond to meet the needs of her students. She is a strong advocate who empowers students through her compassion, patience, and unwavering commitment to their growth and success. Dawn’s calm and nurturing demeanor helps create a supportive learning environment where students feel safe, valued, and encouraged to succeed. She also maintains strong and open communication with families, building meaningful partnerships that support student progress. Through her care, teamwork, and dedication, Dawn continues to make a lasting impact on the students and families she serves.

A man stands in a classroom holding a certificate, while a group of students poses behind him in the…

Sean McCracken - Science Teacher
As an 8th grade science teacher and proud Methacton graduate, Sean McCracken continues to give back to the community through his leadership and dedication to student learning. Sean has played an important role in implementing the new PA STEELS standards and supplemental science resources that enhance classroom instruction and student engagement. He demonstrates a strong commitment to professional growth through his involvement in Methacton’s instructional coaching cohort, his work as a curriculum department leader, and his participation on Arcola’s instructional leadership team. In the classroom, Sean empowers students by ensuring they clearly understand what they are learning and how they will demonstrate success. Through his teamwork, commitment, and leadership, Sean continues to make a meaningful impact on students and staff alike.

A woman smiles holding an award in the foreground of a classroom, while in the background, a man adj…

Julia Mennerich - Instructional Assistant
Julia Mennerich serves the Arcola community with compassion, positivity, and a strong commitment to supporting students each day. In her role as an instructional assistant, Julia nurtures students in both their academic learning and personal growth. She is always willing to help wherever needed and handles multiple responsibilities with organization, flexibility, and care. Whether working in the classroom or interacting with students in the cafeteria, Julia builds positive relationships while holding students accountable with kindness and compassion. Through her teamwork, dedication, and supportive presence, Julia continues to make a meaningful difference throughout the school community.

A woman in a black dress holds an award in the foreground, while a group of people stand in front of…

Dana Fornicola - Instructional Assistant
Dana Fornicola brings positivity and dedication to her role as a Title I math assistant each day. She has immersed herself in classrooms by providing meaningful support to students through small group instruction and individualized assistance that helps students strengthen their understanding of mathematical concepts. Dana’s warm and caring personality, along with the constant smile she brings to school each day, helps students feel supported and encouraged as learners. She is passionate about building students’ confidence and empowering them to see themselves as successful math learners. Dana’s contagious positive energy and commitment to student growth makes a lasting impact on the Arcola community.

A man and a woman stand smiling in front of a large potted plant, with the woman holding a framed aw…
A woman holds a framed award in front of a colorful bulletin board decorated with paper flowers and…

Irene Garvin & Gina Stover - Volunteers
Irene Garvin and Gina Stover are a powerful & dedicated tag team of volunteers whose leadership as board members on Arcola’s Home and School Association continues to enrich the entire school community. They work tirelessly to create meaningful opportunities for students that enhance the school experience, including events such as the school-wide winter dance, celebrations that recognize student success, and the planning of Arcola’s inaugural Color Battle Celebration. Their commitment to nurturing a positive and connected school culture is also evident in the many ways they support staff, from awarding mini-grants to organizing thoughtful acts of appreciation throughout the year. Whether providing funding for field trips, supporting STEAM Day, or helping coordinate Teacher Appreciation Week, Irene and Gina consistently demonstrate teamwork and commitment in all they do for Arcola students and staff. They are our biggest cheerleaders!

A young woman in the foreground holds a framed award in a classroom, while in the background, a teac…

Morgan Doherty - 8th Grader
Morgan Doherty is an inspiration to the Arcola community through her academic dedication, unwavering resilience, and exceptional character. She approaches every challenge with determination and perseverance while consistently exceeding expectations in all that she does. Morgan’s integrity, positive attitude, and commitment to growth empower and inspire those around her each day. She represents the very best of the Spirit of Methacton through her strength, character, and ability to motivate others through both her actions and example. We are incredibly proud of all that Morgan has accomplished.

A smiling boy holds an award in the foreground of a classroom, while in the background, a teacher sh…

Vinchi Stehr - 8th Grader
Vinchi is a compassionate and hard-working student who brings positive energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to the Arcola community each day. He consistently puts forth strong effort in the classroom while demonstrating creativity and critical thinking across all of his classes. Through determination and a genuine love of learning, Vinchi excels academically while remaining highly involved in school activities, including the music program and theatre productions. No matter the stage, he approaches every opportunity with a positive attitude and a commitment to doing his best. Well-liked by both peers and staff, Vinchi truly embodies the Spirit of Methacton through his kindness, commitment, and character.