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Student reporters and district honor educators as seniors announce college and career plans
Summary
Student board reporters from Brandywine’s three high schools delivered end-of-year updates on athletics, arts and student-led initiatives; the board also recognized longtime volunteer Jack Vinegar and named Stephanie Stiefel the district’s 2024–25 Behavioral Health Professional of the Year.
Student board reporters from Brandywine School District’s three high schools delivered their final monthly updates at the May 12 board meeting, highlighting spring sports, music trips, community service and college commitments.
Concord High School Student Council President Maggie Halkowski and Vice President Ramin Tura recapped a student-versus-staff basketball game, a music-department trip to Chicago, participation in a watershed cleanup and winners at the World Language Showcase. "We are beyond proud of everyone's accomplishments," Halkowski said.
Mount Pleasant High School reported wins in band, choir and athletics, and noted that several seniors committed to a range of postsecondary paths, including universities, trade and culinary schools, and military service. Presenters named college commitments for graduating seniors across the district, including institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania, Boston University, Rutgers, Tufts and The Ohio State University.
The board paused to honor the late Jack Vinegar, recognizing his long volunteer service on the district finance committee and presenting an in-memory plaque.
The board and district staff also recognized school-based behavioral health professionals. The district-level award for 2024–25 Behavioral Health Professional of the Year was presented to Stephanie Stiefel, who has served the district as an educator and counselor and was introduced by her principal and colleagues. "She redefines [the counselor role]," Towey/Talley Middle School Principal Jeffrey Lawson said, describing Stiefel's work supporting students' socio-emotional needs and leading schoolwide mental-health initiatives.
Board President Ackerman and Superintendent Lisa Lawson thanked the student reporters for their year-long service; student reporters were invited to return to the boardroom to receive formal recognition.
Why it matters: The student reports provide a direct channel between schools and the board, highlighting student leadership, community service and postsecondary planning. Honoring volunteers and staff recognizes contributions to district finance oversight and student health services.
What’s next: The district will continue its recognition programs and the winning behavioral health professional advances to the state-level competition, the district said.
