Benchmark Magazine, Fall 2025

The Magazine of Benchmark School Finding Ways Forward with AI Literacy Parallels in Math Instruction 2024-2025 Report of Gifts

Fall 2025

Board of Trustees

Credits

On the Cover

Benjamin B. Rogers ’95, P’24, Chair

Alyce Callison, Director of Marketing

Susan Null discusses math with

Rich Salerno, P’26, Vice Chair

& Communications, Editor

Ryan Hill ’30, Quinn Pierson ’30,

Michele Todd, Secretary

Anna Williams, Design

and Quinn Knight ’30. See more

Dan Berger ’93, P’27, Treasurer Michelle Bogosian, P’19

on page 26.

Jennifer Brion, P’28, P’30

Contributors

Lauren Cristella, P’29

Alyce Callison

Stephen Chase ’06

Rosanne Crowe

Turaya Bryant Kamau, P’24

Linda Duncan

Robert Lambert, P’27

Stefanie Frayne

Anne Rice-Burgess, P’18

Chris Hancock

Andrew B. Rogers ’93

Eric MacDonald

Nicholas Romeo ’04

Susan Null

Amanda Atterbury Ryan, P’25

Association of Independent Schools, which is a member in good standing of the National Association of Independent Schools’ Commission on Accreditation.

Benchmark School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender and sexuality diversity, age, or against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability, in its admissions and financial program, in the administration of its educational

Charles Ryan, P’17 Pete Verdi, P’24

Benchmark School is accredited by Pennsylvania

program, or in its employment policies.

Chris Hancock, Head of School,

Where’s the Bobcat?

Benchmark School is a tax-exempt organization

Ex Officio

Can you find the Benchmark Bobcat?

as a charitable organization within the State of

Irene W. Gaskins, Founder &

He’s hiding on a page in this magazine.

information for Benchmark School may be obtained

Trustee Emerita

Answer on the back inside cover.

Howard Marcus, Trustee Emeritus

as provided by IRS regulations and is registered Pennsylvania. The official registration and financial from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999.

Registration does not imply endorsement.

CONTENTS

16

Finding Ways Forward with AI

26

Literacy Parallels in Math Instruction

36

Building Emotional Security

41

Poems from Mr. Hancock

Message from the Head of School

2

Poems from Mr. Hancock

41

Campus News

3

Class of 2025

48

Finding Ways Forward with AI

16

Alumni Updates

54

Literacy Parallels in Math Instruction

26

It Takes a Village

60

A Child's Unique Learning Journey

32

2024-2025 Report of Gifts

63

Building Emotional Security

36

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@benchmark.school

A Message from the Head of School

BEING SEEN

By Chris Hancock

One of the many reasons Benchmark’s legacy endures is that everyone at this school lives a simple truth– that we treat each student as an individual. This means more than paying lip service to the uniqueness of each young learner. It insists we are here to teach Suzy to read, rather than teach reading to Suzy–that

students know that we see them. This is particularly

learning differently demands teaching differently. To

profound for our students, who experienced challenges

do so, we must work closely with students to get to

with learning in their previous schools.

know them before we can teach them in ways that suit them best. This means balancing our research-

When students come to Benchmark, our first priority

based practices with emergent pedagogy.

is seeing who they are and how they work. Everything follows from that. When students know they are

When I talk about emergent pedagogy, I’m referring

seen, loved, and championed by the adults in front

to tailoring everything we do to meet students where

of them, it unlocks a sense of security and enables

they are. The moment we see a particular struggle,

them to blossom into their fullest selves. The pages

or passion, we respond. The ways we approach a

within this magazine highlight some of that potential

student are constantly changing–with deliberate

fully unlocked, noting recent alumni enrollments and

intention–day to day, week to week, evolving alongside

commitments to elite colleges like Dartmouth, Cornell,

our students’ strengths and interests. Paired with

UPenn, and Yale, along with other great moments our

our deep knowledge of research-based best practices,

current students experienced this year.

individualizing is always at the forefront. This, if one tried to pin it down to just one thing, is the “secret

There’s also a lighter side to seeing and being seen.

sauce” of our success. Some might even call it love,

In the past few years, I have been writing rhyming

and that wouldn’t be wrong. However, I often think

couplets that showcase our students’ strengths and

of it as being seen.

special interests, and these mini-poems have become the centerpiece of my graduation remarks–again a nod

My dear mentor and friend, the late Dr. Peter J.

to PJ. [See all of the graduation poems on page 41.]

(PJ) McDonald, former Head of Eagle Hill School in

In this way, I pair my good wishes for their future with

Hardwick, Massachusetts, imparted a student-centric

the reminder that we know them, we see them, and

motto, “If you can’t see me, you can’t teach me.” PJ

that they will always have a place here at Benchmark.

truly saw each student. He loved every student, and they thrived under this focused care. It’s been the navigational beacon for my entire journey through educational leadership. And so, every Benchmark teacher, without exception, makes sure that our

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Campus News

WELCOME, NEW TRUSTEES! Welcoming Fresh Faces on the Board

Benchmark was proud to add five new trustees to the board.

We offer a warm welcome to Jennifer Brion, P’28, P’30; Stephen Chase ’06; Lauren Cristella, P’29; Nicholas Romeo ’04, and Pete Verdi, P’24.

Jennifer Brion, P’28, P’30 Jennifer Brion has worked at the Chester County Department of Human Services since 2011 in a range of roles, beginning as a Quality Assurance Specialist/ Children’s Behavioral Health Clinical Coordinator, then becoming the Director of Quality Management, and now holds the roles of Deputy Human Services Director and Director of Managed Behavioral Health.

Prior to the Chester County Department of Human Services, Jen held a range of mental health counselor and social work roles in Pennsylvania and Virginia.

She completed her undergraduate degree in psychology

Jen says, “Benchmark is a game changer! We couldn't

and women’s studies at Randolph-Macon College

be happier with our decision to send both children

and obtained her Master of Social Work degree from

to Benchmark. Our daughter started in 1st grade

Virginia Commonwealth University. Jen is the current

during the pandemic when we felt hopeless. Due

President of the Benchmark Parents Association (BPA)

to the progress, support, and overall excellence of

and serves as the BPA Liaison to the board. Jen is the

Benchmark we decided to also pursue this education

mother of current Benchmark students Agnes Brion ’28

path for our son. Both children have shown so much

and George Brion ’30.

growth and just continue to thrive. They look forward to going to school every day. Benchmark has created a foundation for hope and love of learning.”

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

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Campus News

Stephen Chase ’06 Stephen Chase is an analyst at Drexel University's Investment Office, where he plays a key role in managing the University's $1 billion endowment. Stephen earned his MBA from Drexel's LeBow College of Business, graduating at the top of his class with a concentration in Finance and Alternative Investments.

Stephen's early career began in his family's home services business, where he gained hands-on experience in sales, marketing, operations, and finance. He later worked his way up to serving as head of research at a Philadelphia-based public relations firm specializing in crisis communications before returning to the family business to continue driving growth and innovation.

Stephen earned his B.A. in anthropology with honors from Trinity College (Connecticut), focusing on economic and behavioral anthropology. He and his husband live in the Philadelphia area, where they are actively engaged in the non-profit and LGBTQ+ community.

Stephen is a member of the Facilities Committee.

Before joining the board, Stephen spent ten years chairing Benchmark’s Alumni Association. He says, “It feels like a true full-circle moment to join

Lauren Cristella, P’29

Benchmark's Board of Trustees. Nearly two decades

Lauren Cristella is the President & CEO of the

after graduating, and a decade leading the Alumni

Committee of Seventy (C70). In 2018, Lauren began

Association, my appreciation for this remarkable place

her career at C70 as the Chief Program Officer, and

has deepened. I'm eager to bring that dedication to

in June 2023, she was named President & CEO, the

the board, helping to guide Benchmark's strategic

first woman to serve in that role in the organization's

vision and uphold its legacy.”

120-year history.

Lauren has been named to the steering committee of Innovate Chester County, an initiative to generate ideas from the public to explore new ways to tackle challenges in Chester County. She also serves on the Philadelphia Bar Association's Judicial Commission.

Under Lauren's leadership, the Committee of Seventy received the American Bar Association's Unsung Heroes of Democracy Award in 2024. Lauren was also recently recognized as the 2024 Rad Girl Nonprofit Leader of the Year and was featured in Philadelphia Magazine's list of the 150 most influential Philadelphians in 2023 and 2024.

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Nicholas Romeo ’04 Lauren has previously served as the President of the

Nicholas Romeo is the Sales Director for Professional

League of Women Voters of Philadelphia, where she

Services at SEI, focusing on enhancing operations,

focused on rebuilding the organization and equipping

compliance, technology infrastructure, and

volunteers to have a positive impact on elections at

customer experience for private banking and wealth

the grassroot level.

management clients. Prior to this, he was the Senior Sales Director, Enterprise at General Assembly, where

Additionally, Lauren currently serves on the Board

he partnered with Fortune 100-500 companies to

of the Forum of Executive Women. Lauren received

reskill and upskill their workforce to support a firm's

her bachelor's degree from the Catholic University

digital transformation. He also served as a Senior

of America in Washington, D.C., where she majored

Account Executive at Bloomberg Government, a

in politics, and interned at the International Center

subsidiary of Bloomberg LP, providing comprehensive

for Terrorism Studies. She went on to receive her

information, analytics, workflow tools, and news for

master's degree from the University of Essex in

professionals interacting with the federal government.

Colchester, England in Ethics, Politics and Public Policy.

Nicholas Romeo attended Gettysburg College, Lauren is mother to Benchmark student Theo

majoring in Political Science with a focus on American

Campbell ’29. She and her family recently moved to

Government and Political Philosophy with a minor

Mt. Airy after nearly twenty years in South Philadelphia.

in African American History. During his time there, he was a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity and

Lauren is serving as a member of the Governance

completed internships with Senator Arlen Specter and

Committee. She says, “I’m honored to join the board

No Labels. Prior to college, he attended The Haverford

of Benchmark School—a place that has profoundly

School and Benchmark School.

impacted my son's growth and confidence. I’m excited to meaningfully contribute to this remarkable

In addition to supporting Benchmark School, Nicholas is

community and help advance its vital mission.”

actively involved in volunteering roles at The Haverford School, serving as the Alumni Officer for the Class of 2008 and as a member of the Leadership Council, where he assists the Board of Trustees, Headmaster, and other school constituencies with advice, counsel, and service on matters affecting the general vitality of the school.

Nicholas is serving on the Development Committee.

He says, “As an alumni of Benchmark School, I am deeply honored and incredibly excited to join the Board of Trustees. This opportunity allows me to give back to an incredible institution that played a pivotal role in shaping my educational journey and personal growth. I look forward to collaborating with the esteemed members of the board, Chris Hancock, as well as Benchmark’s incredible teachers and faculty to ensure current and future generations of students can benefit from the same exceptional education that I received.”

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Campus News

Pete Verdi, P’24 Pete Verdi is the President of Menlo Financial Consulting where he collaborates with partners and stakeholders to provide support across a variety of operational finance needs including budgeting, reporting, and analysis.

He began his career in the Financial Management Program at General Electric. During his fourteen years at GE, he held increasingly larger financial positions working across multiple business, including Appliances, Corporate Audit, Lighting, Plastics, Industrial Systems and Water & Process Technologies. In addition to GE, he has also worked for AmerisourceBergen as the Vice President of Commercial Finance. Leveraging his twenty plus years of corporate finance experience, he began a consulting career with a focus on mergers and acquisitions and CFO-type services. For nearly a decade he worked with Brandywine Mergers & Acquisitions assisting business owners with exiting their businesses. This work included providing financial support (accounting, reporting, and operational improvements) and working with businesses through the sale and disposition of the company.

Pete holds a BBA in Finance from the University of Notre Dame and an MBA from Arizona State University.

He lives in Bryn Mawr with his wife Lesli, children James and Annie ’24 and two dogs Rocky and Apollo.

Pete serves on the Development Committee of Benchmark School’s Board of Trustees. Pete says, “As a parent, I have experienced, first-hand, the transformative power of Benchmark. As a board member, I now can give back to the community that literally changed my daughter’s future. It's an honor and a privilege to have this opportunity.”

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THE LATEST From 2107 North Providence Road A Full Circle Story A Fictional and Non-Fictional Learning Journey In the Mattaliano/Duncan 5th grade, students create historical fiction based on the real-life Black heroes of the Underground Railroad and Reconstruction. More than four years ago, when recent graduate Penelope Prinbeck was in this class, she created a story called Hold Onto Dreams about the teaching work of educator and activist Charlotte Forten Grimké. In Penelope’s Author’s Note, she explains, “Charlotte Forten was born in 1837 in Philadelphia to an affluent free Black family.

When illness forced her to quit her job in Philadelphia, she volunteered to teach the freed slave children of the Sea Islands in South Carolina.”

Beyond writing and illustrating an engaging story that imagines rural Black life in South Carolina at the time, Penelope took the story deeper, creating the character Henry, a boy whose learning differences create problems for him in learning to read. About Henry–and about herself–Penelope says, “Henry could represent the hundreds of slave children whose lives were transformed by Charlotte Forten Grimké. Henry’s story is especially important to me. When I was young, I had a lot of trouble reading. Just like Henry, the letters swam on the page and refused to make sense.

My school sent me to a teacher named Susan, who sat with me for hours, helping me puzzle them out.”

As an 8th grader, when Penelope returned to her 5th grade classroom to interview Mrs. Mattaliano as part of the research for her portfolio project, she also offered to read her story to the class. Penelope not only answered students’ questions, but took the lead in prompting students with questions of her own to help them consider topics more deeply. Looking into the future, Penelope is now considering seeking a job that would involve working with children.

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Campus News

CBS Covers The SWAG Benchmark Students Share Their Unique Experience On May 8, CBS Sports reporter Krystle Rich-Bell visited Benchmark School to see our talented student athletes in action. Ms. Bell covered the story of our partnership with the soccer training program called The SWAG, connected to the Philadelphia Union. These remarkable students are getting an unparalleled Benchmark education while engaging in top-tier soccer training. Time for soccer training is built into their Benchmark day, with dedicated coaching on campus in the morning before school and travel to the Union practice facilities after school.

The seven Benchmark students who began with The SWAG have now graduated into the Philadelphia Union Junior Academy.

Scott Spangler, coach, Benchmark parent of player Thomas ’28, and founder of The SWAG, said, “We can give them an introduction to soccer with a level of coaching that you don't see unless you're in a professional academy.” Mo Mayah ’28 said, “It feels like a dream.”

Scan the QR code to watch the full segment that aired on May 14, 2025.

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Campus News

Farewell, Retirees Parting with Joan Fox, Ruth Kelemen, and Leslie Stein At the end of the 2024-2025 school year, we said goodbye to three beloved members of our community who have moved on to their next adventure: retirement. Here, in honor of their countless contributions to our school, we showcase some of their reflections.

Ruth Kelemen taught in the Middle School for 23 years. Ruth says, “My warmest memories of my time here are the lightbulb or “Ah ha!” moments when you and the student know the student has made the connection or realized what was really happening in the book.” Ruth also mentored students for many years, and says, “There are tears of joy when I see my mentees graduate. Reflecting with each one on how they started 6th grade and how they are ready to enter 9th grade is joyful!”

Ruth Kelemen talks with students at the top of the Waterfall.

Ruth leaves the following wisdom: “As we all are

Leslie Stein dedicated her skills as a psychologist

incredibly busy, let's remember we are all individuals.

on the Child and Family Support Services team for

No one knows what kind of a day anyone is having

28 years. A consummate professional, it is fitting

unless it has really been shared. Let's always strive

that one of Leslie’s fondest memories relates to

to be our best each day and encourage our students

professional development. She says that she enjoyed

to do the same. Mistakes are one of the ways we

“the opportunity afforded me and [former teacher]

learn! I hope we can continue to teach our students

Joan Davidson to meet and learn from Dr. Mel Levine

strategies to learn and accomplish the hard stuff.”

at the University of North Carolina's conference

She concludes, “I am blessed and honored to have

on learning. He was an inspiration and driver of my

had the opportunity to be a part of this community

20+ year passion to share with staff and parents the

for so long.”

knowledge I gleaned from him on ’learning difference.’”

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Campus News

Joan Fox works with students to prompt sketch ideas on the grounds of Boxhill.

Leslie also notes, “Benchmark gave me the memorable and gratifying opportunity to connect with passionate staff on so many meaningful levels—connections that greatly enriched my life and taught me immeasurably!”

In parting, Leslie offers, “All my warmest wishes for your continued passion and Benchmark's longevity.”

Leslie Stein meets with teachers to share information

Joan Fox taught art at Benchmark for 6 years.

about developing learning profiles. See more about

Although her tenure at Benchmark was not as long

her work on page 32.

as those who retired with her, the gift of her teaching and presence in our community has been equally powerful. In reflecting on Benchmark, Joan says, “I think it’s a very committed, very caring community.

I felt what I brought was a different perspective to things and I felt valued. I didn’t feel like people tried to have me do it differently. I hadn’t expected to find a community here at Benchmark that was so welcoming and sincere.”

On her work with students, Joan says, “I feel as if I’ve always been allowed to give to the kids a different type of movement in my room but that would never have been possible if it wasn’t for the structure they’re getting in other spaces too. We should all walk the world being able to be us, right?

And that’s what I wish for our kids.”

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Campus News

Owning It Middle School Students Manage Events Last year, our Benchmark Parents Association

and took the selections to mentor groups for a vote.

reflected on some of the school events that they

The committee also designed and created a range

help to host, like Family Movie Night and the Middle

of promotional posters that were posted around the

School dances. Those events were well-attended

school and included in the Weekly Announcements.

and fun, but could they be better? In a move to

For each dance, the respective 7th and 8th grade

give our students more ownership over these events,

committee members created possible themes and

the BPA tapped Rachel Cameron, Assistant to the

took those to mentor groups for a vote as well. The

Head of School, to help lead our Middle Schoolers

committees also worked closely with Sam Gerlach

in having more control over the events.

(our own DJ) on song selections and even created a game wherein students would get punches on a card

Each of the three events–Family Movie Night and the

for dancing to certain songs and earned prizes.

two Middle School dances–had a student committee of advisors/managers who helped to decide the themes

Rachel says, “It was so great to see the kids unleashing

of events, made promotional materials, and then

their creativity. You could see that they felt really

supported the events themselves.

invested in each of the events. And participation for all of these events went way up!”

For Family Movie Night, the committee of 6th graders narrowed the possible film choices to three options, Some students having fun and taking photos at Boxhill before the Semi-Formal.

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

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Campus News

Radical Morning Meetings Cultivating Joy and Justice Outside of his work as our innovation teacher, Sam

In February, Benchmark hosted a meeting of the

Gerlach has another passion: promoting “Radical

Greater Philadelphia Diversity Collaborative, and

Morning Meetings.” Sam explains, “Radical Morning

Sam shared the tenets of Radical Morning Meetings,

Meetings are a framework for culturally responsive

leading the group through exercises that they could

social-emotional learning for educators and students.”

incorporate into their own classrooms.

Sam is a member of the board of Philly Children’s

In the past year, Sam has presented at the Rutgers

Movement (PCM), and, together with his mother,

Equity Alliance for Community Health (REACH)—

Jennifer Bradley, speaks at local and national

Advancing Equity with Community-Engaged Education

workshops and conferences about the Radical

conference and at the Philadelphia Higher Education

Morning Meeting (RMM) framework. Radical Morning

Network for Neighborhood Development (PHENND)

Meeting practice was first piloted in collaboration

Conference. This past July, Sam presented at the

with the Rutgers Graduate School of Education and

National Education Association (NEA) Conference

three neighboring school districts working to develop

on Racial and Social Justice in Portland, Oregon,

antiracist educational practices. RMM offers an

with his workshop titled, “Radical Morning Meeting:

invitation to build community while cultivating skills

Centering Joy & Justice in Classrooms and Beyond.”

for both joy and justice. In their workshop sessions, Sam guides participants through a Radical Morning

Sam says, “Traditionally, morning meetings serve

Meeting while also teaching about the framework

as a temperature check and a starting point for

and its culturally responsive components. Finally,

many teachers. However, Radical Morning Meeting

Sam helps educators to begin planning how to utilize

is a more deliberate practice that can ignite, engage,

this framework in their own practice, whether that

and excite, while also highlighting and serving the

be professional development, the K-12 classroom,

underrepresented, marginalized identities that are

or community spaces.

already present and prevalent in the classroom.”

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Campus News

Tom Hurster Honored for Group Psychotherapy Winner of the 2025 Harold S. Bernard Group Psychotherapy Training Award In March 2025, Mr. Tom Hurster, MSS, LCSW, CGP, AGPA-F, was honored as one of the recipients of the 2025 Harold S. Bernard Group Psychotherapy Training Award from the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA). At Benchmark, Mr. Hurster is a Clinical Social Worker on our Child and Family Support Services team.

Mr. Hurster, co-honored with his colleagues Seth Aronson, PsyD, CGP, and Andy Pojman, EdD, CGP, AGPA-F, has made a profound impact within the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA).

As Co-Chairs of the Child and Adolescent SIG, as Faculty at AGPA Connect, and through various governance roles, they have significantly contributed to the professional community by promoting teaching, training, supervision, mentoring, and writing about group psychotherapy for children and adolescents.

Established in 2001, this prestigious award is presented annually to individuals or organizations whose work in group training and/or education elevates the practice of group psychotherapy. Steve Van Wagoner, PhD, CGP, AGPA-F, Certification Board Chair, remarked, “This year’s Bernard recipients are respected and generous teachers whose dedication to supporting and growing the field of group psychotherapy embodies the essence of this award.”

Mr. Hurster and his co-chairs received this during the AGPA Connect 2025 conference in San Francisco.

“This year’s Bernard recipients are respected and generous teachers whose dedication to supporting and growing the field of group psychotherapy embodies the essence of this award.”

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

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Campus News

Summer Scholars Philly School Students Love Benchmark Camp

For the past two years, we have been honored to

Camper Hailey’s mother described the Benchmark

host students from Thomas G. Morton School in

Camp experience as “wonderful, outstanding,

Philadelphia at Benchmark Camp. These students’

and beneficial,” and noted that Hailey particularly

principal, Andrew Brooking, and assistant principal,

benefited from “understanding different ways

Kelsey Harryman, selected them as those who

to break down new words and meanings and

could uniquely benefit from the Benchmark summer

building vocabulary.“ She and the other scholars

experience of top-notch language arts instruction and

returned to Thomas G. Morton School in September

executive function skills development, along with a

demonstrating marked improvements in reading,

second-to-none recreation program.

writing, executive function skills, and overall preparedness.

This past year saw a rapid expansion of the partnership to sixteen students thanks to generous

Nearly all of the Morton students who took part in

foundation support. The Pincus Family Foundation

the first year of the program were able to return for

spearheaded this pilot program between Thomas

the second year. Their affection for the program and

Morton School and Benchmark Camp in 2024.

those who run it was clear when Mr. Hancock and

Recently, we were able to expand the number of

Director of Summer Programming, Mrs. Mary Katherine

scholars to sixteen due to the additional generosity

Montgomery, visited Morton during the school year

of the philanthropic arm of Power Home Remodeling

and were greeted with big smiles, hugs, and tearful

(“POWER”), Power for Good Foundation, with a

pleas from other students about how they could take

$20,000 grant. Benchmark is grateful for the support

part in Benchmark Camp too. Mrs. Montgomery shared

that makes these campers’ transformational

that one of the students, Tevin, proudly shared with

experiences possible.

her that he was now a reader and that he couldn’t wait to come back for Summer 2025!

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Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

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Feature

LEVERAGING AI FOR STUDENT LEARNING Crutch or Creative Tool?

By Eric MacDonald, Ed.D., Head of Middle School

“If a kid grows up with generative AI and doesn’t really learn how to properly use it, they might get the idea that AI is there to do all the work, which will cause them to not learn anything about writing itself.”

This was the astute observation of one of our 8th

need to use them beyond Benchmark, but that

grade students after spending a year learning about

these tools also provide opportunities and supports

and how to use generative AI tools. It is just one of

for students with learning differences and for

the many critical observations some of our 8th graders

developing executive function skills. Since the

made about AI use after spending a year learning

advent of ChatGPT and the increasing availability

about generative AI and experimenting with using it for

of generative AI tools, teachers at Benchmark have

learning, particularly writing. At Benchmark, we have

begun to explore how we might leverage this new

long believed that, not only is it important for students

technology for our teaching and how students can

to learn how to use technology tools because they will

begin to use it for their own learning.

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Feature

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Feature

Exploring AI @ Benchmark When I first heard about ChatGPT in January 2023, I must admit that my first reaction was to ask that access be blocked for students. Michael Rogers in our technology department urged me to consider this carefully. So, I began to read some more about AI, modeled my curious explorations of it with my students, and engaged in discussions with them over the following few months. Together with my students, we started to see some of the promise that AI held, while also exploring the issues that raise concerns about this developing technology.

That summer, Benchmark supported me attending the International Society for Technology in Education’s (ISTE) annual conference being held in Philadelphia, where I attended every AI session I could find, and in taking a course offered by ISTE called “AI Explorations for Educators,” developed with funding from General Motors. The final project of the course got me thinking about how I might integrate AI into my English class in the 2023-2024 school year.

Early that year, Mrs. Blackburn and I engaged students

kind of feedback on their writing. When students would

in learning about what AI is and how it works, so

ask to use a tool, we would ask them why they felt it

that they had a basic understanding of this developing

would be helpful and, afterwards, engage them in a

technology. Throughout the year, we continued to

conversation about how it went, particularly what they

build on this learning about how AI works and how

learned that they could apply to their future writing.

it is being used. Students were given the following guidelines around their use of generative AI tools:

In the beginning of the year, we modeled for students how to use AI tools for writing. For example, when

If you feel the need to use a generative AI tool

teaching students how to write a thesis statement for a

for something, it is best to ask first.

theme analysis essay, I modeled for them using various AI tools to give me several suggestions for rewording it.

Alternatively, provide what you did, what you

We discovered together that none of the suggestions

learned, and how it will help you with similar

felt quite right and that we ended up using parts

questions/issues in the future.

of our original sentence and aspects of suggestions from several tools. Throughout the year we often

Don’t assume one teacher’s expectations will

explored how different AI tools give different results

be the same as another’s. When in doubt, ASK.

and learned that as writers we could benefit from the ideas generated from these various tools. In the middle

With that foundation, we began to explore the use

of the year, students were required to use AI tools to

of AI for writing. Of course, some students wanted to

get suggestions for rewording thesis statements they

jump in and just let it do the work. Students always

had drafted as well as to pick a paragraph from their

had to do some aspect of writing first and could only

essay they felt needed the most work and get several

turn to an AI tool when they were stuck or to get some

suggestions for rewording that paragraph from AI tools.

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Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Feature Eventually, students were allowed to use an AI tool whenever they felt it would be helpful, but had to acknowledge that they used it with a footnote in their paper.

It became clear that the students became critical users of these AI tools. Here are some of the reflections of students about their use of AI for writing: I think that the AI tool was iffy when it revised my original paragraph because the first time that it revised was good but it did not have what I was looking for and the second time it was just horrible.

I think that the AI sentence rewriter helped me develop a more effective thesis statement by using different words that, although [it] did not change the meaning of the sentence, made the sentence more clear and descriptive. It also helped me see different opportunities that my writing holds.

I learned that AI does not know everything about what you are writing about and mixes up details which is why you shouldn’t take AI’s work without looking over it.

To effectively use AI tools to enhance my writing I need to make sure I am learning from my mistakes and actually taking in the information that the AI is telling me. I think it is best to use AI when I am stuck on my writing and I am not sure if it is a good draft or not, because if not then I might not get a good understanding of how I am doing which might affect my

These statements reflect that students were becoming thoughtful, critical users of the technology tools and not blindly using it to do the work for them.

overall grade. I can use MagicSchool in the future for writing assignments when I am stuck and need something to help me and I can also use it when a teacher isn't there for me.

I’m learning to effectively use AI to enhance my writing skills by not using it to write for me, but using it as a tool to reword my ideas, fix my sentence structure, and give me new ideas.

It is best to use AI when you think something doesn’t sound right or you think that it could sound better or flow better but you're now sure how. I might want to use AI tools such as TinyWow or MagicSchool in future writing assignments when I can’t get a lot of teacher feedback or I want to reword something to flow better.

Using AI has affected my writing skills by teaching me how to weave in more sophisticated words and sentences. So I am able to use stronger words without them sounding out of place.

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Collaborating to Expand Our AI Exploration

students a little about what AI is and gave students some opportunities to play with it, for example generating images with AI. They then began to use

In the 2024-2025 school year, more teachers

MagicSchool’s student tools to allow students to get

became involved in exploring how AI can be used

feedback and support on their writing. Mr. Thomas

to support student learning. This was due in large

shared that he loved that MagicSchool’s tools

part to a partnership between Benchmark and

provided a place students could turn to problem

Widener University. This partnership came about

solve on their own and that it helped to spark student

after I read a very interesting article on AI in

thinking. Students were excited about using the tools

education in The Journal of Adolescent and Adult

and that they could get help when a teacher was

Literacy, and discovered it had been written by

busy helping another student. Mr. Thomas likened it

professors at Widener, one of whom I knew through

to “training wheels to support their thinking.” He and

my involvement in the Keystone State Literacy

Ms. Philion are excited to see how students respond

Association. So I reached out to them to see if

to feedback from an AI tool compared to how they

they were interested in collaborating, and they

implement teacher feedback, as well as how it might

were enthusiastic to collaborate. Throughout the

enhance their willingness to make revisions and the

year, Dr. Zora M. Wolfe, Associate Dean of the College of Health & Human Services, and Dr. Katia Ciampa, Associate Professor and Director of Reading Programs, visited Benchmark to explore with interested teachers how we might leverage AI tools in the classroom.

The Benchmark group included Miss Chloe Datner (our librarian), Mrs. Lisa Grieco (6th grade teacher), Mrs. Melinda Rahm (4th grade teacher), Ms. Nicole Scali (8th grade teacher), and Mr. Chas Thomas (6th

“Our students benefit from teacher coaching to learn how to effectively collaborate with AI tools.”

grade teacher), with a few others joining us at times.

This intrepid group met during our professional development days, but also bright and early about once a month. Mrs. Grieco summed up the feelings of the group overall when she noted that she found it insightful to hear from university professors how AI is being used and to learn from colleagues how they were exploring its use, particularly with students.

The professors conducted interviews at the end of the year with our faculty participants as part of their research on teacher AI use. As a result of our discussions, Dr. Ciampa and Dr. Wolfe are creating a developmental continuum of student AI use and some ideas for students to think about when engaging with AI, especially to support executive function skills. We are excited to see how this partnership adds to research in the field!

Inspired by these discussions, Mr. Thomas and Ms. Philion began to explore AI with their 6th grade language arts students in the spring. They taught

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using AI prompts. They observed that our students’

about what he was seeing in his classroom that he

executive function skills, like response inhibition

had to share it with the other 6th grade teachers,

and flexibility, impact their interactions with AI. Most

saying, “You’ve got to use this in your classroom!”

often the students were too quick to just accept what the AI tool gave them. Some students found the AI

Mrs. Rahm and Miss Datner collaborated to explore

generated findings too long and challenging to read

AI use with a 4th grade class. Miss Datner created

and they relied on teacher support to take action,

a lesson about media literacy that included an

like revising the prompt. Other students needed

introduction to AI. Students explored idea generation

guidance to reflect on the ideas presented by AI

and used AI to get feedback on their ideas, discussing

and consider the ideas before pushing back on what

how they might use it in the future. The students

the AI was giving them. These 4th grade teachers

participated in a fun activity with a custom chatbot to

learned something that also has been apparent with

experience AI. They gave a list to the chatbot and saw

older students: that we need to teach students how

what the response was to their input. The students

to think critically and even argue with an AI tool in

had fun in these interactions with AI. Mrs. Rahm and

order to use it effectively and ethically. Our students

Miss Datner also provided the students with practice

benefit from teacher coaching to learn how to effectively collaborate with AI tools.

In 8th grade, students work on a project early in the year that includes setting goals for themselves for the year. This year the teachers wanted their goals to focus on executive function skills. We created an AIpowered chatbot that helped students to do just that.

The chatbot's instructions were: You are an expert executive function coach.

I would like you to help me develop a goal to work on an executive function or other important skill (such as self-confidence, active involvement, collaboration, growth mindset or self-advocacy) and then help me brainstorm some action steps I can take in school to work on that goal.

The student is asked to tell the chatbot which skill they want to work on. The chatbot then helps them to better understand the skill and suggests some possible goals. Students were taught to “argue” with the chatbot to make sure the goals worked for them.

The chatbot then suggested how they might work on their goal and, again, students were encouraged to “argue” with the tool to ensure the plans worked for them. The result seemed to be clearer, more effective goals with much more realistic and specific action plans for students.

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How are they using AI tools?

a chatbot that might guide students to more effectively and thoughtfully engage in working

How/when are AI tools useful?

on a boat building project based on Bernoulli’s principle. Last year, I worked with Mrs. Blackburn

What issues are they running into? (When is

on a custom chatbot that guided students in

it not as helpful?)

developing some background knowledge before reading a textbook and in developing effective

How are AI tools helping them learn and think?

purpose questions to guide their note taking.

Mrs. Grieco used a tool in MagicSchool that helped

What are they learning from using AI tools that

students develop a song to help them remember

they can apply to their future writing/learning?

science concepts they were learning about.

We have explored the use of a number of different Throughout our explorations of using AI with students,

AI tools, being sure that the tools we are allowing

we were guided by the following questions:

students to use are not using student data. Among the tools we have been exploring are TinyWow.com’s

How can AI support students in learning?

AI rewriter tools, MagicSchool, SchoolAI, and Flint.

(We think there is especially great potential

New platforms are emerging all the time and

for supporting the learning of students with

we will continue to explore which tools offer the

learning differences.)

best and safest opportunities for our students.

How do we help students balance the use of AI

In addition to the use of AI for learning, we have

for learning vs. doing the thinking for them?

also worked to help students understand the problems presented by AI. We discuss the biases

How do we help students take charge of their

that can be part of AI models. I adapted lessons

own learning and thus use AI responsibly?

from Common Sense Media to engage students in discussions about the problems of teenagers

We also believe that these tools need to be treated

beginning to turn to AI for friendship and advice.

like we do all explicit strategy instruction by helping

(Interestingly, so far, students are adamant that this

students develop an understanding of:

is not a good thing.) We periodically discuss news articles about developments in the world of AI and

What specific AI tools can be useful for their

what these developments might mean for us as

personal learning

humans, including AI’s impact on the environment.

Why the specific tool is helpful to their learning

Teacher Uses for AI

When to use specific AI tools to further learning

In addition to exploring how AI can support student

and/or be more productive

learning directly, teachers are exploring the many opportunities that AI platforms are providing to support

How to use various AI tools to enhance learning

the work of teachers. For example, Mrs. O’Hara has often spent hours developing stories for students to

All of this is done in the context of modeling AI tools

read that use Word Detectives key words. She has

for students, providing them with guided practice in

found that AI can do this for her much quicker and

their use, and frequent reflections. These reflections

produce engaging stories for students. Many teachers

encourage students to think about:

are finding that it helps them to use text resources

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Feature that would otherwise be too difficult for students

Indeed, it is all about the thinking. We as humans need

to read, as they can use AI tools to rewrite the texts

to ensure that we are the “senior partners” and that

at a variety of levels. AI tools can be used to help

we are doing the critical analysis and thinking when

teachers save time developing assessments and in

using AI. Many parents and teachers are concerned

providing ideas for new ways to teach concepts in

about students turning to AI to “cheat” by getting

more meaningful ways. These tools have the potential

AI to do the work for them. Teachers are working to

to save teacher time so that they can concentrate

develop “AI-proof” assignments. Interestingly, a 2023

even more on individual student needs.

survey by researchers at Stanford found that the rate

But It’s All About the Thinking Based on the feedback received from the presentations I have given to various groups of educators about our work with AI at Benchmark, we are on the forefront of exploring how AI can be used to support student learning. We are exploring AI use in the context of the research-based approach to instruction that we know works for our students. The teachers I share with are impressed by the reflective way our students have come to use these tools. Many parents and teachers worry about how AI can negatively impact our cognitive abilities. However, Benchmark students are on the forefront of exploring how we as learners can partner with AI to support us without giving up our role as thinkers and problem solvers. I will always remember that at the end of that first school year when ChatGPT broke out, I had a discussion with my English class about where things were headed. As we worried about the potential issues of AI, one student spontaneously said, “But, it’s all about the thinking!” Our students, with the right support, can come to see AI as a tool for learning, not as a crutch to do their thinking for them.

As we worried about the potential issues of AI, one student spontaneously said, “But, it’s all about the thinking!”

of cheating, at around 60%, had not changed from the results of surveys prior to the advent of ChatGPT. At Benchmark, it seems that those students who have engaged in the guided learning about AI described here are indeed less likely to misuse the tools.

AI is not going away. It is here to stay and will only become more powerful and pervasive. As Sal Kahn, founder of Kahn Academy, writes in his book Brave New Words: To meet the demands of this new world of work, educators are going to have to, explicitly or implicitly, continue making their students familiar with [AI] tools and the power that they have. Generative AI is what’s called a generalpurpose technology, one that comes along very rarely. Think of the transformations brought about by steam power, computers, or the internet.

Generative AI is likely to transform our lives faster, and more profoundly, than any of these previous inflection points. (Khan, 2024, p. 203) As parents and educators, recognizing the transformative power and opportunities of AI, along with the problems, we need to collaborate together to help our students navigate this ever-changing world effectively and leverage these tools so that they can become effective learners, thinkers, and problem solvers in this brave new world.

Spector, C. (2023, October 31). What do AI chatbots really mean for students and cheating? | Stanford GSE. Stanford Graduate School of Education. Retrieved January 18, 2025, from https://ed.stanford.edu/news/what-do-ai-chatbots-really-mean-students-and-cheating

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UNCOVERING LITERACY PARALLELS IN MATH INSTRUCTION Word Detectives Comes to Math Class

By Rosanne Crowe, Head of the Math Department and Susan Null, Lower School Math Teacher

Literacy, as defined in education, is the ability

Word Detectives lessons. When these same

to read, write, speak, and listen—essential skills

structures are brought into math, they make new

that empower students to thrive in school and

content more accessible by reducing cognitive load.

navigate the world around them. At Benchmark

This familiarity allows students to engage more

School, we have developed intentional literacy

deeply in learning and boosts their confidence—

practices, including Word Detectives decoding and

particularly for those with executive function

spelling programs. Recognizing the strength of this

challenges such as difficulties with working memory

approach, Susan Null, math teacher at Benchmark,

and sustained attention. Second, the foundational

saw an opportunity to apply Word Detectives

pedagogy of Word Detectives is very effective, and

strategies to math instruction. Her goal was to

when transferred to math, it unlocks understanding

help students strengthen math literacy—the

and fosters active participation. This approach

ability to reason, communicate, and understand

empowers students to articulate their thinking,

mathematical concepts.

deepen their conceptual understanding, and build number sense. We've seen students who once

Using principles of Word Detectives methodologies

struggled grow into confident, capable problem-

to teach math is particularly useful for Benchmark

solvers—especially when they are equipped with

students in two ways. First, our students are already

tools they already use successfully in other parts

familiar with the routines and terminology used in

of their day.

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Feature Two of the core routines from the Word Detectives program are the use of key words and the Talk to Yourself Chart. Key words are simple, high-frequency words that highlight the most common spelling patterns in English. Teachers guide students in analyzing these words using the Talk to Yourself Chart—a series of prompts such as: How many letters does the word have? How many sounds do you hear? What spelling patterns do you notice? This structured questioning helps students break down and understand how words are built, recognize patterns, and apply that knowledge to decode unfamiliar words.

These same routines that analyze words, so ingrained in our language arts classrooms, can be naturally applied to math instruction. Many Benchmark students struggle with traditional methods of learning multiplication facts, such as timed tests or flashcards. Instead of rote memorization, students use a multiplication chart that organizes facts by factors. Just as students use known vowel patterns to decode new words, they can use known factors to uncover new multiplication facts. Mrs. Null introduced this approach to her thirdgrade class, using a multiplication chart and the same familiar prompts from Word Detectives: “If I know...,

Multiplication Strategies With Multiples of 10

then I know....” At first, students were hesitant, thinking the task was too hard. But when she reassured them using language from Word Detectives—“If you know 4 × 4 = 16, then you know 400 × 40 = 16,000”—they saw the connection and quickly began to apply these strategies successfully. Over time, students developed a deep understanding of multiplication as repeated addition and grasped the Commutative Property— that 4 × 6 is the same as 6 × 4. They also learned to identify multiples and factors, all through the use of an organized and structured visual model.

Mrs. Null also extended the “Looking Through Words” routine into math instruction to build number sense and attention to detail. In language arts, this routine starts with a simple word and changes one part at a time—by switching letters or adding syllables— until the student ends up with a more complex word.

For example, a teacher might say, “If you have not and change the n to a c, then the word is...” and students reply, “cot.”

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In math, Mrs. Null created a version called “Looking Through Numbers.” Starting with a number, she would change one digit in each step and ask students: What changed? For example, she might guide students through the following: “If you start with 4,500 and end with 4,000, what changed?” The students respond, “You subtracted 500.” These small-step transformations allow students to think critically about place value and operations. In another example, for early algebra, a teacher might say, “If you start with x and end with x², what changed?” and students would answer, “You squared the x.”

This routine is especially helpful for building students’ critical thinking skills. Just as a student might misread the word “was” as “saw,” they might misread the number 21 as 12. Looking Through Words and Looking Through Numbers encourages students to slow down and pay attention to every letter or digit, and to recognize how its placement affects meaning or value. Because the structure of the routine is familiar, students engage readily, enjoy the activity, and experience success.

Over the past year, Mrs. Null has not only experimented with these two key literacy strategies but has also developed additional math routines to support math vocabulary and conceptual understanding. Through this work, she empowers her students to become confident and capable mathematical thinkers. By establishing consistent, familiar, and effective routines across disciplines, Susan helps students build lasting literacy skills, both in language and mathematics.

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UNDERSTANDING A CHILD’S UNIQUE LEARNING JOURNEY Learning from Dr. Leslie Stein

By Stefanie Frayne, Associate Director of Marketing and Communications

Have you ever wondered why your child learns differently?

Dr. Leslie Stein, a psychologist at Benchmark School for 28 years, focused for many years on conducting in-depth student learning profiles for families, offering parents and teachers invaluable insights into each student’s preferred learning methods, strengths, weaknesses, and potential barriers. This critical

Dr. Stein’s six major processes of learning are:

•

Higher order thinking

•

Memory

•

Processing skills

•

Language

•

Ordering systems

•

Grapho-motor skills

information allows educators to tailor their teaching strategies while helping parents support their child’s

She emphasizes that the executive function skills—

academic and personal growth.

such as attention, working memory, and selfregulation—are also crucial, as their presence or

She focused these learning profiles around the

absence impacts these major learning processes

six major processes of learning. When asked,

in significant ways.

“What do we mean by the processes of learning?”

Dr. Stein responds, “Learning is a huge, multifaceted

Dr. Stein began offering these annual workshops

concept, so I developed a workshop to educate

for parents back in 2009, equipping them with

parents specifically about what is involved in their

information that could help them understand

child’s experience within the classroom and called

and assess their child’s strengths and challenges.

it “Learning about Learning.”

These workshops also helped parents comprehend why difficulties arise, particularly in areas that led students to Benchmark.

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“This information has enhanced my instruction, as I think about how these processes intersect with each other, and how they are impacted by executive skills when I am planning a lesson.”

— Sue Arabia, Lower School teacher

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When Dr. Stein announced her retirement last year, she offered monthly sessions with faculty, allowing them to discuss in small groups the complexities involved in a “learning different” profile. She grouped teachers by grade level to ensure shared expectations and understandings of students’ capabilities.

In these sessions, Dr. Stein discussed the six learning processes in depth, focusing on the executive function skills that impact them. Using a protocol that she developed, Dr. Stein provided staff with a visual schema that facilitated a way to approach each student’s needs neurodevelopmentally and to incorporate this understanding into conferences with parents. Over the course of a Benchmark education, students show significant growth in areas that initially posed challenges. With strategy instruction, educators can foster this growth, and with a solid understanding of how the different processes of learning interrelate, they can enable parents to more clearly appreciate a child’s initial challenges and growth, as brains are remarkably malleable.

Sue Arabia, a veteran teacher in the Lower School, notes, “It is very interesting to see how the major processes of learning impact a student’s performance across the day.

This information has enhanced my instruction, as I think about how these processes intersect with each other, and how they are impacted by executive skills when I am planning a lesson. I also thought there was a powerful message to share with parents about how these major processes develop over time, but not in the same way or at the same speed for everyone.”

Dr. Eleanor Gensemer, Assistant Head of School for Academics, adds, “These sessions help teachers think diagnostically. When they see a certain behavior, they can better understand its cause. This also enriches their conversations with parents, enabling them to explain challenges in the context of a child’s developmental journey.”

Dr. Stein’s work at Benchmark School has provided invaluable insights into the complexities of student learning and the importance of understanding each child’s unique educational journey. Through an elucidation of the learning processes along with the crucial role of the executive function skills, Dr. Stein has equipped parents and educators with the tools to better support students in their academic and personal growth.

While her retirement marks the end of formally scheduled learning profiles, Dr. Stein’s legacy continues through the ongoing professional development of teachers who are now better prepared to diagnose learning challenges and share this complex information with parents. The collaborative approach she fostered has deepened the understanding of student needs and enriched the entire school community’s ability to guide children toward meaningful growth and success.

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BUILDING EMOTIONAL SECURITY, ONE MORNING AT TIME Social-Emotional Learning in Room 5

By Linda Duncan, Lower School Co-Teacher

The Mental Health Connection At Benchmark, we strive to create a community that

that is intended to foster thriving human beings who demonstrate enthusiasm for lifelong learning, critical thinking, and problem solving.

is warm, welcoming to all, positive, and conducive to risk-taking. We see in our population of students that strong mental health has a notable impact

7 Traits of Successful Students

on school success, and we teachers find greater

Benchmark School’s founder, Dr. Irene Gaskins,

classroom success when we teach not only academic

described these 7 traits of successful learners:

content but social-emotional well-being as well. For

attentive, active, reflective, persistent, flexible,

this reason, Benchmark teachers prioritize building a

organized, and positive. Today the language one

safe space where students can develop an increased

associates with these traits is known as executive

growth mindset and become comfortable taking risks.

function skills, yet Irene was definitely a visionary

Before beginning to teach content, it is paramount

when she chose to include and emphasize active

that students demonstrate comfort and readiness to

learners with a positive attitude. Since it is a primary

learn. We teachers strive to create a space in which

goal at Benchmark to take action when faced with

we can share our authentic selves and in which we

a task or problem, we teach students to make

feel understood and accepted for both our vulnerable

productive use of tools and strategies. Since we are

selves as well as our affinities so that we can promote

strategy driven, not only do we emphasize why a

social-emotional learning. With this as our foundation,

strategy is important but we also teach how, when,

students are ready for the essential strategy instruction

and where/which spaces to use it. Just as we teach

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Feature academic strategies, we also teach social-emotional

serve as valuable time to build community, character,

learning (SEL) strategies. When students are not

growth mindset, empathy, grit, and executive function

feeling positive and are lacking a growth mindset,

skills, as well as practice the additional strategies that

we provide students with the tools they need to

prepare us to put forth our personal best for the rest

take action.

of our day. A bulletin board titled “Make Today Count!” depicts visuals of the strategies shared that serve as

When we make SEL strategies a primary goal and teach

a permanent reference for students at the door.

students the importance of this foundation, they can be ready to maximize their learning throughout the

While every Lower School classroom approaches

day and increase their productivity. Therefore, direct

morning meeting differently, I will address morning

instruction at Benchmark begins the moment students

meetings in the Room 5 fifth grade community,

gather in a circle on the back carpet or at their desks.

which use a curriculum I designed. To make mornings easier and because students benefit from predictable

Taking Action: SEL in the Classroom

routines, I developed a repetitive structure based on the days of the week.

As a seasoned teacher with arthritis, a chronic invisible disability, I have learned firsthand the power of taking action and of a growth mindset. When I visibly flare, I can choose to be negative and passive or I can choose to take action and be positive. Therefore on “bad days,” I do my best to model both flexibility and goal-directed persistence for students despite my challenges. After having created and taught a Character Development curriculum in a previous school community, I am thrilled to lead Rm. 5 Morning Meetings since these

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Motivational Mondays Tranquil (or Topical) Tuesdays Wellness Wednesdays Thankful Thursdays Fun and Fruitful Fridays

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Our Daily Morning Meeting Routines

During Motivational Mondays, students frequently

I begin morning meetings with a beginning “chime”

main focus, however, is to have students reflect about

from a singing bowl and then a greeting, such as

what will motivate them for the day and/or new week.

“Welcome and happy Motivational Monday!” This is

To encourage everyone to take a risk, I like to begin by

often followed by a check-in using a color zone chart

sharing what will motivate me and then opening it up

as reference. The color chart zones of regulation

to sharing. Those less comfortable with sharing aloud

connect colors with emotions:

are asked to write their response on a post-it.

pair-share together a highlight from their weekend. Our

Blue zone represents sad, sick, tired,

Tranquil Tuesdays are devoted to a structured

bored, weary

mindful meditation which is especially helpful for today’s “anxious generation.” I dim the lights and

Green zone represents happy, calm,

students sit in a space of their choice with a fidget

focused, ready to learn

and practice taking a body scan, breathing, and repeating affirmations such as “I am kind.” They learn

Yellow zone represents frustrated,

the value of these mindful breaks and often practice

wiggly, losing control

them at the end of the day. In the beginning of the year, Tuesdays are also sometimes referred to as

Red zone represents angry, fearful,

“Topical Tuesdays.” This allows for time to focus on

out of control

the many executive function skills that we address daily at Benchmark (sustained attention, goal-directed

In the beginning of the school year, we talk about how

persistence, response inhibition, organization, time

morning meeting space is a safe area where we can all

management, planning and prioritizing, task initiation,

share our “authentic” selves, both our vulnerabilities

and emotional control). These become daily vocabulary

as well as our affinities. If someone is not in the green

words and goals for Benchmark students and morning

zone of being happy, focused, and ready to learn, we

meetings allow us to revisit these most crucial traits

talk about the importance of being mindful of this,

of successful students.

particularly if students are willing to share why.

Wednesday’s theme can vary. On “Wellness After a brief check-in, we zoom in on the objective

Wednesdays,” we devote time to a more extensive

based on the day of the week’s content as seen

reflection in which students respond to questions

above. I share a brief message or ask a question

about themselves in a private Google form. On

that frequently stems from our reading or social

“Words of Wisdom Wednesdays,” we dive deeply into a

studies curriculum. For this reason, I select books

picture book or short story. As I read aloud, students

with intention and a big focus often becomes

reflect on their many takeaways including the author’s

character analysis. Through these books, different

message. To build empathy and background, I select

diverse communities are represented each month

books intentionally and often connect read alouds to

and students study characters or unsung or famous

a theme and/or cultural heritage month since our aim

heroes/global citizens that demonstrate grit, resilience,

is to build bridges and make connections. In exposing

and noble contributions. Then I ask students to reflect

students to such stories, we talk about how books can

and share their responses using “I statements.” Before

serve as windows or mirrors. Books as windows allow

dismissing from the morning meeting we chant our

us to build background on different cultures, identities

mantra: “We Thrive in Room 5!” Finally, an ending

or concepts, while books as mirrors allow us to make

dismissal chime allows for a couple of breaths before

personal connections to characters and events.

transitioning to their first block of language arts.

After spring break, the theme becomes “Wednesday Warriors” where we focus on overcoming classroom

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struggles. By this time of the year, students are growing

Finally, Fun and Fruitful Fridays are devoted to sharing

in their awareness of their own learning styles and

cups of joy, inspiring content, and having fun. This is

the executive function skills that consistently present

also a good day to devote to games that build both

challenges for them. Many also now recognize that

community and executive function skills such as

their previous school setting may not have served

sustained attention, response inhibition, flexibility,

them, while Benchmark offers them a safe place as

memory, etc.

well as the necessary strategies to help them learn.

By highlighting different celebrities and historical

Just 20 minutes a day can be so valuable. No matter

figures that have also struggled in school, students

the day, one goal remains: At Benchmark we want our

can feel represented and develop a growth mindset

students to be successful. Students who feel safe and

that they, too, will succeed and make contributions

understood will be more likely to identify in the green

to society one day in the future.

zone of “happy, calm, focused, and ready to learn.”

They may not stay in this zone of emotional regulation

Thankful Thursdays are devoted to sharing gratitude

and it may become necessary to take charge, reset

after each student shares the people, places, nature,

by breathing, take a walk, etc. but now our students

joy, and goals that promote their own positivity and

have the skills and knowledge to help themselves.

sense of appreciation. A gratitude rainbow where

Our work on social-emotional learning has maximized

each color is assigned a category serves as a visual

students' ability both to learn academic content and

to spark ideas. Once again because we have been

has opened the door to supporting lifelong learning,

presented with characters or communities that have

critical thinking, and problem solving. In this way,

experienced roadblocks in our studies, many times

we embody the mantra, “We Thrive in Rm. 5!” and

we can find connections with the curriculum. After

it is my hope that this is a message they will carry

having grown in empathy, we remember to never

with them as they move through the Benchmark

take anything for granted.

community and beyond.

40

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

POEMS FROM MR. HANCOCK

Feature

Ode to the Class of ’25

For the past three years, our Head of School Chris Hancock has celebrated each 8th grader with a personal poem in his graduation remarks.

(See more about his thoughts on this topic in his letter on page 2.) At graduation this past May, he said,

“In the spirit of Benchmark’s commitment to each individual, and to honor the memory of a late mentor of mine, who 23 years ago taught me just how important seeing the uniqueness of each student is, I have written a short poem to pay tribute to each individual graduate. It is my way of saying congrats and thanks to each of you.”

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

41

Feature Natalie Andress is first on our list, Spending LOTS of free time in school on Pinterest.

A gifted actor in our musical, belting notes on stage, And off it a gymnast, her back tucks and dismounts all the rage.

To Downingtown High she’ll head, all the tools she’ll need, Meet each challenge with confidence, and every expectation you’ll exceed.

Solomon Anyan is next in line, Among many talents, a special gift for graphic design.

And a moral compass that always points north–his qualities don’t end there, Challenge him in video games or bball, a smart person wouldn’t dare.

His quiet humility, a quality envied by all, Take it with you and shine at AIM in the fall.

It’s no surprise how much Anna Cheshire loves to read, But preserve a bookmark for 3 straight years, we should all take heed.

Her relentless courage has nary a peer, Tackling the musical and whitewater rafting, just this year.

DV Friends will soon get to see, what we already do, There’s nothing she can’t accomplish that she sets her mind to.

Ben Dershowitz showed on Field Day he’s fast as a gazelle, A competitor in basketball and soccer, it’s surely served him well.

But can we talk about his sports teams, too much Eagles for me, Yet he never rubs it in, which speaks to how kind he always strives to be.

Empathetic deep down, with only occasional mayhem, One thing is clear, Shipley has landed a gem.

Maggie Frasca is quite accomplished in ballet, Like the great Anna Pavlova, she lands a pirouette and plie.

She’s also a House Captain, leading proudly the Blue, But too soon she graduates, to see our 20-step handshake renew.

A bright future ahead, not worried in the least, Ready to kick down doors and thrive at West Chester East.

Some people know her by her given name, Faith Green.

But the real ones know she’s the TikTok Queen.

Talking makeup and filming dances, creating content at lightspeed, Should not overshadow how much she’s grown to love a good read.

Book club with Miss Datner surely won’t be the same, International Christian High, prepare for your next entry in your hall of fame.

Cameron Kassis graduates today as he continues ascending, Perhaps a chef in the making, cooking with dad, his time worth spending.

Then, with a full belly, he’ll attack you on the pitch,

42

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Feature Or solve a complex math problem, without even a hitch.

With a growing list of skills, a Shipley Gator he’ll soon convert, How proud we are of who he’s become, saying goodbye does hurt.

And now onto Brooks Lankford, the kid can do it all.

Whether it’s hockey, or soccer, or fishing, or bball.

The list grows by the minute, of which he should boast, But to us at Benchmark, it’s his caring spirit that’s swelled the most.

As he charts his own path at Perkiomen very soon, Carry that kindness for all, and a bright future will bloom.

Sophia Mack-Love might be the biggest Swiftie, How she knows all the lyrics and lore, it’s remarkably nifty.

Known to classmates as smart, and never mean, A peer last week said “she was awesome and innovative” on her Rube Goldberg machine.

Of to DV Friends in the fall, she’ll bring her fashion and mascara, From one Swiftie to another, I hope you enjoy your Graduation Era. Grayden Majka can fly by you on the ice, And punish you against the boards, then apologize because he’s so darn nice.

Last week in bombardment, he took a pause to hug little sister, Proving he is class and caring all the way, not just a slapshot or wrister.

To Devon Prep he heads, armed and ready to go, What an example he’s set, as an exceptional big bro.

It’s faster to ask Kelsi McGowan, what she DOESN’T do, Leader in soccer, and Green House Captain too.

She’s determined and fierce, competes harder than most, She’s also a talented singer, a musical side she does boast.

A great buddy to Lower School kids, this list is getting long, Delaware County Christian knows it too, what a gifted kid they’ve taken on.

Alex Migliore, or “Miggs” as they say, Is a finely tuned athlete, rowing crew every day.

He’s also a leader in school, Green House Captain to note, He’d arrive from Wilmington every day, and “never late” he’d gloat.

But it’s to Salesianum in the fall, a much quicker drive, Incredibly prepared for all that comes next, there’s no doubt he’ll thrive.

Greet you with a smile, Miranda Napoli just may, Off the bus she bounds, wishing everyone a great day.

But don’t let her kindness fool you, she’s vicious in a thumb war.

For two years we’ve battled, and I simply can’t win anymore.

Irish dance and lacrosse, her interests never ceased.

Make sure to get involved, and work hard, at West Chester East.

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

43

Feature Abby O’Flynn is a field hockey stud, A top US goalie, she’ll best you on turf, or in mud.

But it’s that drive in her that now shines so bright, There isn’t a task she encounters, with even a tinge of fright.

As she continues to advocate and grow, A star at Delaware Valley Friends she’ll be, this much I know.

Carter Paul was in my raft on the 8th grade whitewater trip, And it’s some kind of miracle that our boat didn’t flip.

This man of the people loves a good night at Dave & Buster's, Mr. Boles says mentor group, without him, is beyond lackluster.

Kidding aside, this young man continues to grow, Keep up the hard work, and accolades at DV will surely flow.

Penelope Prinbeck has wisdom beyond her years, She thinks deeply about most things, and feels even deeper for her peers.

In the musical she was the Jabberwock, fierce and absurd, Off the stage, she can be seen parsing through a book’s every word.

But it’s her keen self-awareness and authenticity to boot, That will unlock doors like it did, as a top Friends Central recruit.

Isabelle Quinn wow’d us with songs from Wicked’s score, In our musicals she defied gravity, with each note fans begged for more.

On the stage, it was confidence she had found, And off of it, no surprise, that strong friendships abound.

Off to Bishop Shanahan, where I promise she’s got what it takes, Be courageous, take chances, and remember, even Glinda made mistakes.

Jack Ramage loves history and isn’t ashamed to brag, He once created his own country with its own constitution, and flag.

He also loves baseball, and bleeds Philly red, One would be amazed at the stats he keeps in his head.

But it’s his sense of humor and dedication that make everyone a fan, Malvern Prep is receiving a wonderful young man.

When off the court, Ethan Rayfield loves to fish, But catch him on it, and he rebounds like Nikola Jokic.

The girls call him, “Group Leader,” always with affection, Never hesitates to look out for others, or provide a team project with direction.

Downingtown East is where he’ll soon enroll, Whatever he pursues, he’ll do with care, and surely meet every goal.

Sam Ryan can solve a Rubix cube in 10 seconds flat, Or put you in checkmate before you know where you’re at.

He can also glide by you with the greatest of ease,

44

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Feature A champion swimmer, makes breaststroke look like a breeze.

His real virtues though, are his brains and his heart, It’s no surprise that EA is where he’ll soon get his start.

Pursues most things with vigor and focus, does Josie Scott, But it’s her deep friendships that happily fill her pot.

She’s grown immensely since her days roaming the Lower School, Even took on House Captain, making the color orange look cool.

Qualified for W.B. Saul High, and proud she should be, It’s not every day you meet a talent like Josie.

Levi Silk has hair, flair, shoes, and a style of his own, But it’s his purple Baltimore Ravens colors for which he is best known.

A talented football player outside of school, and here a loyal friend, A Bearing Witness Project Award showed the empathy to which he can attend.

And now to Lower Merion, where he’s got all the strategies one might need, Work hard, advocate, and success will come. Undoubtedly. Indeed.

Please roast me, Maddie Siravo did ask, But to do so is too tough a task.

To celebrate the dynamic actor and singer, a much simpler feat, Starring in our musical, and even being paid by Walnut Street.

What her teachers already know, is what we hope in herself she does see, That Conestoga has never met someone with her tenacity.

Barrett Slye is a lifer, here since 2nd grade, It’ll be much longer than that, before his mark on us does fade.

He does it all–from soccer to golf, and next year it’s water polo and crew, On top of this he’s kind to all, a class act through and through.

Now a Malvern Prep Friar, where more success will come, Nobody more proud than his dad and his mum.

You cannot get this young man to stop reading, one Alex Solomon.

He reads every word and detail from cover to colophon.

Beyond the pages he does karate, is a scout, and loves science the best, A dazzling project on hydroponics, wow’d us all during Quest.

To AIM he heads, and this I must now stress, You’ve got all the tools young man, now go out and impress.

A humble, world traveler is Noelle Steele, To London and the wide world, she’ll hop on a plane with zeal.

She also loves kids, a future teacher could be her path, But, we must first talk about skipping school to fly to the WNBA draft.

Equipped for all that comes next, in the Longhorn State where she’ll soon be, No doubt Ms. Wonderland will shed a tear, or three.

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

45

Feature No poem about Evan Sweatt would ever be complete, That didn’t mention Dot’s Pretzels, as his favorite treat.

An avid gamer, and a sponge for random facts, Constantly warning Mrs. Veacock of coffee’s 20 negative impacts.

A gifted writer of fiction, and the most creative mind around, Just hitting his stride as he’s DV Friends-bound.

EJ Turner can hoop and speed by you on the pitch, But art is where he’s truly found his niche.

His expression is profound through pen and brush stroke, Mrs. Fox agrees, strong emotions his work does evoke.

Next year will bring change, with a move to Tennessee, But nobody could be more ready, he’s as capable as can be.

Look up the word caring, and you’ll see Joe Youngblood’s face, The last on our list, a sentinel for good for this place.

He’ll checkmate your king in chess, rarely finish second, But it’s the headless chickens drawn on classroom boards that will live on as legend.

To Conestoga he goes as prepared as any, Not a question of if he’ll succeed, but how often. The possibilities are many.

So there it is, my Ode to the Class of ’25, The time to celebrate all their hard work has finally arrived.

To our graduates…our faculty are so truly proud, And so are your biggest fans, sitting behind you in the crowd.

As you set forth on new journeys with new people in new hallways, Please know that Benchmark is with you…forever, and always.

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Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Feature

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

47

Graduates

Congratulations Class of 2025!

Every member of the class of 2025 worked very hard to reach this point, and we are immensely proud of their perseverance and commitment.

We wish you great success and happiness in high school and beyond!

Natalie Andress

Solomon Anyan

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

The rafting trip.

My friends coming to see my final

What’s one thing you wish every Middle School student knew?

To be kind.

basketball game in the student vs. staff game.

Benchmark taught me...

How to be social, how to be empathetic, and tough.

Anna Cheshire

Benjamin Dershowitz

Maggie Frasca

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

Words of the Wiser for Younger Students

The rafting trip.

When I ran the last event in the

Don't let yesterday take up too

House Cup and we won it.

much of your time today.

Words of the Wiser for Younger Students Do what you want to do, even if you're scared.

48

Benchmark taught me...

How to do algebra.

Benchmark taught me...

To advocate for myself.

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Graduates

Faith Green

Cameron Kassis

Brooks Lankford

Benchmark taught me…

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

Doing the s’mores project in

Playing football in the snow on the

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

5th grade.

field in 5th grade.

Field Day.

What’s something you’re really proud of accomplishing at Benchmark?

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

Improving work quality and ADHD

and support.

To believe in myself.

The wonderful teaching

problems and getting good grades.

Sophia Mack-Love

Grayden Majka

Kelsi McGowan

Words of the Wiser for Younger Students

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

Don't give up even if you run

Ms. Scott being so nice to me

How welcoming it truly is and

into challenges.

and helping me get to the right

being a House Captain as well.

Benchmark taught me...

How to advocate for myself.

reading level.

Words of the Wiser for Younger Students

Benchmark taught me…

How to be confident in my reading and writing skills.

Always try hard but you don't need to do it alone.

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

49

Graduates

Alex Migliore

Miranda Napoli

Abigail O'Flynn

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

Benchmark taught me…

The Gettysburg trip.

The rafting trip.

Benchmark taught me…

How to problem solve in

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

What’s something you’re really proud of accomplishing at Benchmark?

different ways.

The school trips and friends and

Reading a 400-page book.

How to use strategies and tools.

building our community.

Carter Paul

Penelope Prinbeck

Isabelle Quinn

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

What is your favorite quotation?

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

Going whitewater rafting.

“Tell me, what is it you plan

My favorite memory is the rafting

to do with your one wild and

trip and the musicals.

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

I will never forget how much I learned.

precious life?” - Mary Oliver, “The Summer Day”

Benchmark taught me...

Don't give up and keep trying.

What’s something you’re really proud of accomplishing at Benchmark?

I am proud of my acting skills, which have really improved!

50

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Graduates

Jack Ramage

Ethan Rayfield

Sam Ryan

What’s something you’re really proud of accomplishing at Benchmark?

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

What’s one thing you wish every Middle School student knew?

I really improved my grades.

The people.

There are a LOT of essays in

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

What’s one thing you wish every Middle School student knew?

Recess.

Seventh grade is the most fun

To never quit, and to keep

year at Benchmark.

persisting through.

Josie Scott

Levi Silk

Madeline Siravo

Benchmark taught me…

Patience not only with the people

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

around me but when learning too.

I will never forget my mentor group.

What’s one thing you wish every Middle School student knew?

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

I'll never forget about the

What’s something you’re really proud of accomplishing at Benchmark?

friends I've made.

I am proud of getting a lot better

Words of the Wiser for Younger Students

at reading.

It takes risks to achieve dreams.

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

8th grade.

Benchmark taught me…

You can push through and do hard things and it will get better.

51

Graduates

Barrett Slye

Alex Solomon

Noelle Steele

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

What is your favorite memory from Benchmark?

Having a Boston Tea Party in

What’s something you’re really proud of accomplishing at Benchmark?

Mr. P's class.

How I learned to read, and now I

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

am a very good reader.

Everyone is there together as

Words of the Wiser for Younger Students

a community and they are

Always remember to charge

always there to help you and

your laptop.

The Gettysburg trip.

What’s one thing you wish every Middle School student knew?

It's okay to not know the answer but it's not okay to not try.

be your friends.

Evan Sweatt

EJ Turner

Joe Youngblood

What’s one thing you wish every Middle School student knew?

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

What’s one thing you’ll never forget about Benchmark?

The friends I have made through

How fun art class was–learning

Eighth grade isn’t that bad.

my years here.

pottery and sewing and drawing

Benchmark taught me…

What’s something you’re really proud of accomplishing at Benchmark?

How to work.

was so much fun.

Words of the Wiser for Younger Students

That I can write an essay, and I also

While getting a good grade

really liked learning about history.

is important, what is more important is actually learning.

52

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Graduates

In the spring of 2025, rainy weather turned the 2nd Annual Alumni Kickball Game into an indoor bombardment tournament.

It was wonderful to gather with so many alumni. See you at the next event!

GRADS! STAY IN TOUCH!

We love to hear about your activities! Tell us about your achievements, clubs, sports, employment, educational undertakings, life changes, and anything else you’re proud of.

Submit your news and photos via the “Alumni” section of our website.

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

53

Alumni Updates

CLASS NOTES 1985 Michael Herskovitz visited Benchmark for the first

Sam Rogers attended Episcopal Academy and Dickinson

time in decades this past fall, and enjoyed seeing

College after his time at Benchmark, and is presently

the many changes to campus since he left around

a Technical Instructor, where he teaches software to

5th grade. Michael recalled driving to Benchmark in

government IT agencies. Sam says that while what he

a van with other students from Center City, and has

teaches is “criminally boring,” is proud that his dad jokes

very fond memories of the ropes course. Reflecting on

and random facts about space “absolutely blows their

the academics, Michael says, “The diversity of things

minds and everyone’s dreams end up coming true.” Sam

that were taught here was so exceptional. It was great.”

lives in the DC area with his wife and three children,

Today, Michael has a design and construction company

Ava (12), Maddie (10), and Asher (4).

in Center City.

2010 Hadley Mottola Helm went to Unionville High School followed by Millersville University. Hadley works for Christiana Care as an Adaptive Therapy Specialist. She teaches K-12 music, gym, art and health at the First State School located in Wilmington Hospital, which gives children and adolescents who would otherwise be homebound with serious illnesses the chance to attend school with their peers while they get the medical treatment they need. Hadley says, “I got married this past September and live with my husband and dog.

2000

In my free time, I coach girls' lacrosse at Brandywine High School, and my husband coaches youth hockey.

Jonathan DeLone

We definitely stay busy with all the coaching! My husband

attended Colorado State

and I love to travel and look forward to traveling this

University and studied

summer and fall!” Looking back at Benchmark, Hadley

horticulture with focus on

says, “The moment I was able to read my first book was

landscape design, which

the “ah-ha!” moment in my life. To this day, I still decode

he then translated into

words like my teachers used to teach me.”

his own business, DeLone Design, LLC, a landscape

2011

and outdoor living design

John Connolly attended La Salle College High School

company. Jonathan says

and The Catholic University of America after Benchmark,

he’s been busy growing

and he currently serves as the Director of Operations

his residential design company into a premier design

for Congressman Mark DeSaulnier of California in the

firm, snowboarding the west, and raising his dog

U.S. House of Representatives. John shares, “Last

Lucille. Looking back on Benchmark, Jonathan has

year, after four and a half years at Council for a Strong

fond memories of the outward bound course and offers

America working on education policy, I returned to

shoutouts to Ms. Scott, Ms. Campbell, and Ms. Phlato.

Capitol Hill as Director of Operations for Congressman

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Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Alumni Updates Mark DeSaulnier of California, the Ranking Member of

Maie established her own barn in West Chester, PA

the House Ethics Committee.”

and currently owns and trains horses as well.

Jacob Horneman attended Penncrest High

Maie says, “I transferred to Benchmark in 6th grade

School and then Norwich

from Westtown School and within two and a half years,

University following his

Benchmark made a huge impact on my life. Besides

time at Benchmark.

leaving me with lifelong friends, Benchmark taught

While at Norwich, Jacob

me to be brave and

was in ROTC and then

try new things, to be

was commissioned into

organized and disciplined

the US Army, where he

with time management,

presently serves as a

and advocate for myself.

military intelligence

Without the teachers,

officer at Ft. Drum in

especially Dr. MacDonald,

New York. Jacob is still considering his next moves

Mrs. Reisinger, Mr. Canney,

following the Army, and is contemplating the fields

Ms. Wonderland, and

of cyber security and real estate.

many more, I would

2013

not be as successful as I am today!”

Joseph A. Gallo has been in the automotive business ever since he left high school. Joseph says, “I currently

Alex White was recently accepted to the University

work at a speed shop called Fabspeed Motorsports

of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice,

that works on exotic cars and I work for a detail

where she is excited to train to be a social worker.

business on the side. My favorite part of being at

Alex graduated from the University of Denver in May

Benchmark was working at the summer camp.”

2023 with a degree in criminology with minors in psychology and international studies. Alex reports that she often worked with children who had disabilities in some capacity during her undergraduate years, predominantly working as a Registered Behavior Technician for kids with ASD or other developmental differences and was an adaptive swim instructor. After graduation, Alex worked for Child Protective Services as an intake caseworker and most recently worked at Vail Health Hospital's Precourt Healing Center.

2015

Alex says, “My time at Benchmark gave me a new

Maie Seelaus attended Bayard Rustin High School

chance at life. I was transformed; I was a broken and

followed by Pennsylvania State University, where she

lost kid who was entering 6th grade on a 3rd grade

earned degrees in rehabilitation human services,

reading and math level, but then after three years of

human development and family studies, and equine

hard work, I was able to graduate Benchmark fully

science. Maie is an Instructional Assistant for children

caught up in not only academic skills, but I also gained

with autism and emotional support needs in Exton,

the ability to have confidence and make friends. I

PA, as well as serving as an assistant coach for the

graduated with a sense of resilience that took three

women's soccer team at Immaculata University. Maie

years to develop. If I didn't go to Benchmark when I

received a “Coaching Staff of the Year” award for the

did, I would have remained as a broken and lost kid

2024 season. In addition to teaching and coaching,

who was simply trying to survive the day.” Alex gives

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

55

Alumni Updates a special shout-out to Dr. Gensemer, Mrs. Kelemen,

and I had to advocate for myself, and that’s something

Ms. North/Mrs. Crowding, Ms. Sennett, Dr. Cunicelli, Dr.

that I learned here. Benchmark taught me to advocate

MacDonald, Mr. Canney, Mr. Hurster, and Dr. Lemisch.

for myself, to get what you need. This is where

2016

I learned to do that. I didn’t learn it anywhere else.”

Jade works as a corrections officer in Delaware County

Olivia Dodge attended

at George W. Hill Correctional Facility. Her daughter,

Conestoga High School

Hunter, turned three this past April. Jade has fond

after Benchmark and

memories of all of her Benchmark teachers, and is

graduated from the

especially appreciative of all of the one-on-one time

University of Pittsburgh

she had with Dr. Gensemer.

in 2025 with a bachelor’s in civil engineering with a focus in transportation.

In the spring, she started a job at LANGAN as an Entry Level Traffic Engineer. Sharing an update, Olivia says, “Around Halloween 2023, I tore my ACL, MCL and meniscus rock climbing. I have made a full recovery and still enjoy climbing. I also played on Pitt’s Club Tennis Team.”

Nate Quinn graduated from Hofstra University magna cum laude with a degree in social studies education. Nate says, “I am excited to start my teaching career and have all the teachers at Benchmark to thank as I try to follow in their

Blake Fox recently served as a legal intern at

footsteps. I am grateful to all the teachers and

Vermont Law School’s Animal Law and Policy Institute

that is why I am pursuing a teaching career.”

(ALPI), where he worked closely with professors and conducted legal research, drafted memoranda, and contributed to the preparation of legal briefs concerning contemporary issues in animal law. Blake is a senior at Wesleyan University, majoring in history with a minor in animal studies. Blake serves as the Assistant Opinion Editor of The Wesleyan Argus, the university’s student newspaper and manages the TikTok account @ConstitutionalLaw, which, with nearly 25,000 followers, is the largest independently operated TikTok account focused on coverage of the United States Supreme Court. He intends to attend law school and pursue a career in Supreme Court and Appellate

2017 Jade Broadus stopped by Benchmark after work last

litigation. Blake is deeply grateful to his teachers at Benchmark for helping him become a better learner and self-advocate.

fall to visit her old teachers and to share that her Benchmark skill of self-advocacy continues to shape

Sophia Leone is studying at Syracuse University,

her adult life. Jade says, “I was at work this morning

dual majoring in broadcast and digital journalism

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Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Alumni Updates and political science. Although she is still in college, she works as a digital producer at ABC9, where she

Ashley Schnyder met with Lower School Co-Heads Joyce Ostertag and Colleen O’Hara via Zoom in

had the opportunity

April 2025. Ashley is attending Elon University and

to report live from

was taking a course called Journalism in a Free

the Democratic

Society. One of her assignments called for writing a

National Convention.

news story with an interview component. She says, in reaching out to Joyce and Colleen, “I immediately

This past summer, she

thought of Benchmark School as a topic close to my

lived in New York City,

heart and one that would be both meaningful and

where she worked with

informative to explore.”

the National Publicity Team at Paramount Pictures. During her time there, she contributed to high-profile films like A Quiet Place: Day One, Gladiator 2, and the re-release of Interstellar. Sophia has also worked for The Megyn Kelly Show, where she ran all of the social media accounts, which had millions of followers. She was also thrilled to work for American High, a film production company specializing in high school comedies, where she got to analyze movie scripts before being pitched to Hulu.

Looking back on her time at Benchmark, Sophia

2020

says, “I truly enjoyed participating in the musical and

Grey Graham attended

the winter concert, as they provided a wonderful

Malvern Prep following

opportunity for everyone to collaborate and express

graduation from

creativity. Benchmark played a key role in helping me

Benchmark, and is now

gain confidence as a learner, and I now have a strong

in his second year at

understanding of what strategies work best for me

Dartmouth College. Grey

in the classroom to ensure my success.”

is a valued member of the varsity Men’s Lightweight

2019

Rowing team, which he

Orión Astorga-Wister attended The Haverford

has been rowing for since

School after his graduation from Benchmark,

his freshman year.

and is currently in his third year at Cornell

Gunnar Graham pursued

University. Orión says, “I

his soccer and academic

am studying neuroscience

development at YSC

and computer science

Academy following

with aspirations to work in

his departure from

brain-computer interface

Benchmark, and has

technology.” This past

just started his first

summer, Orión worked

year at Yale University,

in a neuroscience lab

where he is playing

studying memory.

Division 1 soccer.

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

57

Alumni Updates

2021

Abdul-Dauda J. Kamara (AJ) graduated from Msgr.

Bonner & Archbishop Prendergast High School and

Reese Dyson graduated

is now attending Saint Joseph's University. AJ says,

from Villa Maria Academy

“I am excited about what lies ahead and my years at

High School in 2025

high school were successful because of what I learned

and is now attending

at Benchmark.”

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) where she is pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming a rocket scientist with her major in aerospace engineering with a minor in robotics. Reese is also participating on the school’s track and field team.

Judy Horn graduated from Sacred Heart Academy Bryn Mawr and is attending Temple University for film and media arts and taking part in the crew team. Judy has

Rohan Kapoor recently

been extremely active in scouting and has taken part in

graduated from Science

five high adventure camps where she rowed and hiked

Leadership Academy

hundreds of miles. She has held several roles and

in Philadelphia and is

honors, and recently was initiated into the Order of the

beginning his freshman

Arrow, received her Brotherhood, and earned her Eagle

year at Lehigh University

Scout award in December 2024. Judy rowed on Sacred

in the School of Business,

Heart’s team for four years and won the varsity trainer

majoring in finance.

singles race of The Head of The Schuylkill 2024 and the

Rohan will be playing

open 500m dash of Center City Slams 2025.

tennis for Lehigh and possibly golf as well.

Rohan says about

Judy says, “I went to Benchmark from second grade to eighth grade. In that time I saw the school grow and

Benchmark, “Learning good strategies to help me

change, creating new traditions and moving on from

become a better learner and has helped me especially

old ones. I remember dancing at every Mini-THON and

in high school.”

being so excited to be a leader once I was eligible.

I was there for the first-ever House pep rally and am

Luca Mazzola is presently attending Villanova

a proud member and past leader of the Orange House.”

University, where he received a soccer scholarship.

Nora Trost is at the Academy of Notre Dame, where she has served as the field hockey manager, played paddle, and is on the JV softball team. She received Honors for her grades and recently received Honorable Mention in the National Spanish Exam.

Will Viner and his father Jim went on an epic 20-day paddling and rafting trip in the Northwest Territories of Canada this past July, exploring the Natla and Keele Rivers in the Mackenzie Mountains. The two of them

58

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Alumni Updates and their guides were completely off-grid for the

me valuable life skills that will benefit me for years

duration of the trip. Will is beginning his first year at

to come.”

Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington this fall.

2023

Evan Whitehouse graduated from AIM Academy and is

Lazenby James Scheibe is a sophomore at Malvern

attending Villanova University for engineering this fall.

Prep and has been studying many new subjects such as Chinese and sculpture. This year, Laz will be

2022

traveling to Australia as an exchange student and will

Tim Hanway attended Salesianum School after

host a student as well. Laz reports that he has started

Benchmark, where he swims competitively. Tim has

playing water polo and was a starter on varsity both

served for two summers as a lifeguard in Avalon, NJ.

years, and has also been active on the swim team. Laz

Tim is beginning his freshman year at Loyola University

is taking part in many school clubs, and his favorite

of Maryland. Tim says, “I really wouldn’t be where I

is the mock trial club, where they didn’t quite win the

am without Benchmark. They taught me strategies

state tournament but Laz was the top lawyer in the

and methods to deal with challenges in and out of

competition and got awarded “best lawyer” in both

the classroom that I still use to this day. I cannot

trials. Laz says, “My favorite moment at Benchmark

thank them enough for

was the gathering where we shared our learning

everything that they have

portfolios. It was great to see all the work that I had

taught me over my three

put in recognized by others. I also really enjoyed all the

years at Benchmark.”

House Mornings because, as a House Captain, I was able to see the fruits of my labor pay off, and all the

Miles Mader is attending Bayard Rustin High School

kids having fun.”

in West Chester, where

2024

he has been on the honor

Jane Driscoll is attending Agnes Irwin School and has

roll every year. Miles is

been having a successful time. Jane’s mother Laina

proud to have recently

comments, “Benchmark prepared her well!”

bought his own car.

Eliza Flaherty is attending Vincent Uglow graduated

Westtown School, where

from Malvern Prep, and

she plays tennis and

is attending Indiana

participates in several

University, where he will

activities, including a

play on their Division

service program where

1 men's soccer team.

she helped with kitchen

Vincent says, “My

duties throughout the

academic achievements

year. She began studying

were an important part in

Chinese, which she

securing this opportunity,

really enjoys and plans

and I am grateful for the strong foundation I built

to study through junior year. Eliza has called upon her

at Benchmark School. The many skills I developed

Benchmark strategies in her schoolwork at Westtown,

at Benchmark not only prepared me for success

helping her to wrap up her freshman year with honors.

at Malvern Prep, but also equipped me with the tools to capitalize on life's opportunities. I would like to

Emmett Hastings is attending Delaware Valley Friends

extend my sincere appreciation to Benchmark School

School and is playing on Kings and Cougar competitive

for supporting my academic growth and teaching

ice hockey teams.

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

59

Development Feature

IT TAKES A VILLAGE Honoring Our Volunteers

Our Annual Report of Gifts showcases the financial generosity of our school community, for which we are grateful and could not survive without. In addition to financial support, we are also appreciative of those who give their time and talent to Benchmark School in a myriad of ways.

The Benchmark Parents Association is composed of parent volunteers who organize events such as the Back-to-School Bash, Family Movie Night, the Book Fair, Bingo Night, school dances, and so much more. These events not only deepen our families’ connection to the school, but also strengthen our sense of community by bringing us together to connect and support one another.

Students love browsing the Book Fair. Cheers to Chairs Sarah Westcott and Aimee Fabiani.

2024-2025 Benchmark Parents Association We are truly grateful for the incredible leadership of the 2024-2025 Benchmark Parents Association.

Their heartfelt dedication to enriching the school experience for our teachers and students, and their genuine commitment to bringing our parent community closer together, is a gift of immeasurable value.

President: Sarah Kinsella, P’26 Vice President: Jen Brion, P’28, P’30 Treasurer: Jenna O’Nell, P’26 Secretary: Donna Saulino, P’26

Bingo Night draws a crowd, led by Chairs Jen Brion and Ellen Sanders.

60

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Development Feature

Parent Ambassador Network

Library Volunteers

These dedicated parents assist our Admissions

We sincerely thank each of our incredible library

team by welcoming and supporting new families

volunteers for their time, energy, and dedication—your

at Benchmark School. As friendly faces at Open

support makes our library a welcoming and inspiring

Houses and the New Parent Orientation, they help

place for all. We truly appreciate everything you do.

create a warm, inclusive environment from day one.

Kirsten Bieljeski

Ashley Leber

questions, sharing their experiences, and offering

Jennifer Brion

Mandy Muller

reassurance to families beginning their Benchmark

Mindy Civan

Kristen Papatheoharis

journey. Beyond campus, they help spread the word

Brian Cuzzolina

Carrie Pratt

about Benchmark in their communities. We are deeply

Tori Harrington

Danielle Szabo

grateful for the time, energy, and enthusiasm they

Kamini Hogan

Erica Tucker

bring to our school community.

Jenny Knox

Virginia Welsh

Kelly Kolmer

Kelli Wilson

Our Ambassadors serve as trusted guides—answering

Bill Bieljeski

Cindy Nissen

Jennifer Brion

Robin Pointer

Cassandra Centeno

Joe Preisser

Samantha Conway

Ellen Sanders

Brian Cuzzolina

Donna Saulino

Sarah Kinsella

Jill Sides

Emily Lambert

Sarah Westcott

Nicole Martin

Board Committees The following committees are composed of staff, trustees, and selected community members that have expertise in particular areas. All volunteer their time and share their knowledge and experience to make our school run smoothly. We are grateful for their willingness to serve in this capacity.

Class Parents

BOARD OFFICERS—EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

We are grateful to our wonderful class parents for their

Chairman: Ben Rogers

support throughout the school year. Their involvement

Vice Chair: Rich Salerno

made a meaningful difference. Thank you for your time,

Secretary: Michele Todd

energy, and commitment—you helped make this year

Treasurer: Dan Berger

a special one!

Head of School: Chris Hancock, ex officio

Kirsten Bieljeski

Jessica Law

GOVERNANCE

ADVANCEMENT

Deija Brantley

Ashley Leber

Andrew Rogers, Chair

Michelle Bogosian, Chair

Cassandra Centeno

Nicole Leon

Lauren Ainsworth

Lauren Ainsworth

Cindy Conner

Elizabeth Morzuch

Chris Hancock

Turaya Kamau

Samantha Conway

Brad Paul

Rich Salerno

Aimee Fabiani

Sarah & Brian Cuzzolina

Susan Ramage

Michele Todd

Cindy Nissen

Aimee Fabiani

Amanda Ryan

Amber West Buller

Jamie Lauth

Kelly Ford

Dawn Salerno

Anne Rice-Burgess

Megan Wonderland

Lori Hendrick

Ellen Sanders

Alyce Callison

Kamini Hogan

Jill Sides

Stefanie Frayne

Jenny Knox

Alisha Slye

Sarah Kinsella

Kelly Kolmer

Sarah Westcott Peter Verdi Brad Paul

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

61

Development Feature

2025 Spring Social: The Magic of Benchmark

FINANCE

FACILITIES

Dan Berger, Chair

Rob Lambert, Chair

Michele Todd

Jim Viner

Charles Ryan

Amanda Ryan

On Saturday, March 8, 2025, Benchmark School

Len DeStefano

Joe McPeak

hosted nearly 200 parents, teachers, and trustees for

Joe McPeak

Drew Kellner

an evening of intrigue featuring delicious food, drinks,

Brad Hill

a silent auction, and an unforgettable performance

David Bloom

by renowned magician, John Graham. Thanks to the

Kevin Kolmer

incredible support behind this event, we raised over $75,000—funding the many community gatherings that bring our families together all year long.

This evening would not have been possible without our event sponsors and committee.

ACE OF SPADES

Toad Hollow Athletics

Dawn & Rich Salerno

Joe Verdeur Swimming Pool Supplies

KING OF HEARTS

Sarah & Paul Westcott

SITE Engineering (Emily and Rob Lambert) Alisha & Jack Slye

COMMITTEE

QUEEN OF DIAMONDS Biscardi & Fox, LLC

Mindy Civan

LT Cleaning

Cassandra Centeno

Mercedes & Michael

Cindy Conner

Migliore Brooke & David Rounick Melody & Ted Tang

Sarah Kinsella

The Camera Shop in Bryn Mawr Meredith & Michael Carter

Montgomery

mentalist John Graham wowed the guests

Penn Medicine

with mind-boggling tricks.

Aimee Fabiani Andrea Harvey

Susan & Rob Borislow

Magic was in the air at the Spring Social as

Samantha Conway Staci Gaupp

JACK OF CLUBS

Mary Katherine & Nick

Kirsten Bieljeski Jen Brion

EduTech

Sarah & Shane Kinsella

Dawn Salerno, Chair Stacy Biscardi

Mindy & Jesse Civan

Carol Glowacki

Jennifer & Steve Wright

Nicole Leon Mercedes Migliore Tara Mondello-Poole Kristen Papatheoharis Donna Saulino Allison Schneider Sarah Westcott Kelli Wilson

ServPro Team Fabiani Testa Bros. Landscape

62

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Report of Gifts

REPORT OF GIFTS 2024-2025 THE 1970 LEADERSHIP SOCIETY Named for the year of our school's founding, the 1970 Leadership Society is composed of donors whose combined gifts through the Benchmark Fund, EITC, OSTC, capital campaign, and endowed funds to Benchmark School during the 2024-2025 fiscal year totals $1,000 or more. It is with great appreciation and gratitude that we recognize these donors.

Founders $100K+

Cory & Rick Scheibe, P’23

David Bloom ’80, P’27

Maggie & Matthew Brodnik, P’22

The Tally Foundation

Mindy & Jesse Civan, P’28

The Graham Family

Mary Ellen & Drew Weissman

Laina & Rob Driscoll, P’24

Missy & Ed Hanway, P’18, P’19,

WSFS Bank

Patricia Ralph & Gordon Fowler,

P’22, P’24

Jr., P’11

Alisha & Jack Slye, P’25

Visionaries $10K-$24,999

Tina Isen Fox & Richard Fox, P’17

Terryglass Foundation

Kate & David Black, P’23

Jonathan and Joanne Harmelin

Michele & Charles Bramley

Trust

Luminaries $50K+

Nikki & John Bendl

Ashley & Jeffrey Leber, P’30

Benchmark Parents Association

Susan & Rob Borislow, P’27

Lauren & James Maloney ’04

Ashly & Dan* Berger ’93, P’27

The Coltman Family Foundation,

Jami W. McKeon & John F. Hollway,

Ilene & Steve Berger, P’93, P’96

Inc.

P’98

Clark Capital Management Group,

Neil & Janet Dabagian, P’15

Mercedes & Michael Migliore,

Inc.

Kathy & Bob Elias, P’03

P’25

Comcast Cable Communications

Mary & Joe Fenkel, P’03

Amy & Tom O'Donnell, P’28

LLC

Beth & Peter Goodhart, P’10

Suzanne B. Perot

Elaine & Len* DeStefano, P’23

Wanda & Chuck Jurgensen

Kristen & Keith Peter, P’25, P’27

Dawn & Nick Kemp, P’10

Kelly & Kevin Kolmer, P’27

Amy & Jim Petersen, P’07

Cindy Berger Nissen ’96, P’27

Emily & Rob* Lambert, P’27

The Joey Pozzuolo Family

Charles Ryan*, P’17

Melina Marmarelis &

Foundation

Samuel Takvorian, P’30

Sheri & Ken Resnik, P’09

Scholars $25K-$49,999

Elizabeth & Ken Parsons, P’28

Barbara & James Rogers, P’93,

Monika & Joerg Ahlgrimm, P’24

Frank S. Polizzi and Mass Marketing

P’95, P’00

Elizabeth Atterbury

Insurance Group

Jessica & Andrew* Rogers ’93

Sasha Ballen & Diana Spagnuolo,

Power for Good Foundation

Rachel & Andrew Sofish, P’24

P’24, P’28

Melissa & Andrew Purcell, P’29

Softerware, Inc.

Enzo Cafiero

Candice & Ben* Rogers ’95, P’24

UHS Recovery Foundation, Inc.

Wendi* & Charles Chase, P’06

The Rorer Foundation

Utica National Insurance Group

Lesli Esposito & Peter* Verdi, P’24

Natalie Rounick

Cheryl & Thomas Weir, P’01

Aimee & Vince Fabiani, P’28

Dawn & Rich* Salerno, P’26

Harris Wildstein

Harmelin Media

Christine Stanko & Scott Burkholder

HSC Builders & Construction

Anonymous (3)

Managers

Trailblazers $2,500-$4,999 Terry & John Barth

Kevin Morgan

Innovators $5,000-$9,999

Susan T. Deakins, P’11

Keith Morgan

The Altringer Family, P’28

Carole M. Filtz, P’92

Brooke & David Rounick, P’30

The Becket Family Foundation

First Resource Bank

Amanda* & Kevin Ryan, P’25

Jennifer Chipman Bloom &

Carol Glowacki, P’26

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

63

Report of Gifts PHILANTHROPY AT BENCHMARK

Benchmark Fund

Chris Hancock

There are many ways in which we

The Benchmark Fund is Benchmark

Shira & Brad Paul, P’25

ask our community to participate in

School’s annual giving program.

Sarah & Paul Westcott, P’28

Benchmark School’s philanthropic

Each year, we invite all members

Mark Wildstein

efforts. Below are the ways in

of our community to make an

Anonymous

which our generous donors have

unrestricted gift of any size to

contributed to making our school

this fund. Supporting our school

extraordinary.

through this fund enables us

Mentors $1,000-$2,499

to provide the best educational

Valerie & Sean Bard ’82, P’21 Carolyn & John Bartholdson, P’24

Capital Giving

experience to our students. Thank

Stacy & Gaeton Biscardi, P’23, P’26

The following donors have made

you to these donors for supporting

Susan & Rob Borislow, P’27

gifts towards capital projects

the mission of Benchmark School.

Barbara & Gerard Bricks, P’88

during the 2024-2025 school year.

Marisa & James Bruder, P’20

We are grateful for not only the

Mary & Joel Adams

Amber West ’84* & Pierce Buller

generosity, but also the vision of

Lauren Ainsworth

Susan & James Carr, P’00

these legacy-minded donors.

Carol & Douglas Allan The Altringer Family

Melody Chou & Ted Tang, P’31 Marcia & W. Gregory Coleman

Ardmore Toyota

America's Charities

Marie Derham & John Connolly, P’11

Sasha Ballen & Diana Spagnuolo

Susan Arabia

Michelle Pearlman & Andrew

Bank of America Charitable

Mary Jane & James Ask

Denker, P’27

Foundation

Elizabeth Atterbury

Eleanor Gensemer

Benchmark Parents Association

Mary & Richard Auchincloss

Ann & Maurice Glavin, P’12

Benevity

Janet Audrain-McGovern &

Donna & Lewis Gould, P’81

Ashly & Dan* Berger ’93

Paul McGovern

Anne & Matt Hamilton, P’94, P’98,

Ilene & Steve Berger

Didem Goz Ayturk & Ugur Ayturk

P’01, P’07

Maggie & Matthew Brodnik

Sasha Ballen & Diana Spagnuolo

Henry L. Kimelman Family

Citizens Charitable Foundation

Valerie & Sean Bard ’82

Foundation

Elaine & Len* DeStefano

John & Terry Barth

Ann L. Jones

Lesli Esposito & Peter Verdi

Carolyn & John Bartholdson

Sarah* & Shane Kinsella, P’26

Tina Isen Fox & Richard Fox

John & Carole Bartholdson

Joanne Levy, P’02

Beth & Peter Goodhart

Mary Lee & Harris Bass

Ann & Howard* Marcus

The Graham Family

Tricia Baum

Susan & Brian McGowan, Jr., P’24,

Missy & Ed Hanway

Bill, Dolly & Jon Baumann

P’25

Kelly & Kevin Kolmer

Laura & Jeff Beauchamp

Mary Katherine ’08 & Nicholas

Mercedes & Michael Migliore

Kristin & Bill Becket

Montgomery

Cindy Berger Nissen ’96

The Becket Family Foundation

Julia & Thomas Patterson, P’83,

Amy & Tom O'Donnell

Benchmark Parents Association

P’89

Elizabeth & Ken Parsons

Betsy & Charles Bemis

Anne Rice-Burgess*, P’18

Shira & Brad Paul

Benevity

Judy & Geoff Schnyder, P’22

Amy & Jim Petersen

Nikki & John Bendl

Carolyn & John Smith

Candice & Ben* Rogers ’95

Dory Benson ’94

Elise Twitmyer

Jess & Andrew* Rogers ’93

Ashly & Dan* Berger ’93

UGI Storage Company

Cory & Rick Scheibe

Karen Berry

Nuriye Uygur, P’16, P’17

Alisha & Jack Slye

Mary Beth & Matthew Berry

The Veloric Foundation

Rachel & Andrew Sofish

Kirsten & Bill Bieljeski

Jim Viner*, P’21

Terryglass Foundation

Lorraine & Guy Biscardi

Anne & Jeffrey Walkenhorst, P’27

Anonymous (2)

Stacy & Gaeton Biscardi Blackbaud Giving Fund/YourCause

Anonymous

Anne Blackburn

64

*Trustee

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Report of Gifts Jennifer Chipman Bloom &

Angela & Joseph Dunn

Chris Hancock

David Bloom ’80

Nasdaq Employee Giving

Ellen & Ed Hanway

Lisa & Rick Bonvicini

Merril & John Dutton

Missy & Ed Hanway

Susan & Rob Borislow

Anthony Edmonds

Jonathan and Joanne Harmelin Trust

Deija Brantley

Sara Barton & Hentzi Elek

Harmelin Media

Barbara & B. Gerard Bricks

Kathy & Bob Elias

Andrea & Robert Harvey

Jennifer & Scott Brion

Employees of the Penn's Way

Lauren & Eli Hastings

Brendan Brower

Campaign

Karen & Thomas Helm

Marisa & James Bruder

Hang Nguyen & Glenn Ereso

Lori Hendrick

Amanda & Doug Bruno

Renee & Richard Erickson

Ryan Hendrick

Silvana Byrne

Anne Esposito

Henry L. Kimelman Family Foundation

Alyce Callison

Lesli Esposito & Peter Verdi

Lynn & David Heyman

Rachel Cameron

Aimee & Vince Fabiani

Carrie & Brad Hill

Lauren Cristella & Doug Campbell

Carole M. Filtz

Julie & Alan Hochman

Kevin Canney

Colin Finch ’94

Barbara & Dennis Hoffman

Amaya Capellan & Alison Perelman

Patrick & Shannon Fitzgerald

Karen & Joseph Hofmann

Terri Cappelli & Francis Jennings

Andrea & Kahlil Floyd

Kamini & Brandon Hogan

Susan & James Carr

Karen & Ted Fluck

Elizabeth & Charles Hottenstein

Sandra Casimir

Christine & Terrance Flynn

Morton Howard

The Centeno Family

Kelly & Kevin Ford

Marcea & Tom Hummel

Wendi* & Charles Chase

Patricia Ralph & Gordon Fowler, Jr.

Tom Hurster

Melody Chou & Ted Tang

Michelle & Michael Frascella ’94

Laura Jackson & Rick Wachter

Mindy & Jesse Civan

Stefanie Frayne

The Joey Pozzuolo Family Foundation

Jennifer Cohen

Alexandra & Thomas Frazier

Allison & Craig Jones

Marcia & W. Gregory Coleman

Jan & Don Frisch

Ann L. Jones

Shannon & Terry Connelly

Judy Galloway & Rick Woodruff

Wanda & Chuck Jurgensen

Brian Conner

Francesca & Noah Gans-Pfister

Mary Kadlec

Cindy & John Conner

Jennifer & Robb Gaskins

Turaya* & Nicholas Kamau

Marie & John Connolly

Wendy & William Gaunt

Hedy Karbiner

Samantha Conway

Staci Gaupp

Mary & Ed Kelly

Faith Cost

Eleanor Gensemer

Raine Kelsall

Deborah & Joseph Cristella

Alexandra Georgiou

Marie & Jeffrey Kenkelen

Jesse Crowding

Jessica & Robert Gladwin

Sarah* & Shane Kinsella

Rosanne Crowe

Ahaviah Glaser

Lindsey & Noah Kissell

Christopher Crowley ’94

Maurice & Ann Glavin

Jenny & Brandon Knox

Sarah & Brian Cuzzolina

Carol Glowacki

MaryBeth & Robert Kowalski

Joan Davidson

Halina & John Glowacki

Barbara & Al Kurtz

Debbie DeBenedictis

Lynn M. Gonzalez

Emily & Rob* Lambert

Delco Gives

Donna & Lewis Gould

Jack Lamperez

Jane & Ernest Dellheim

Emma Grace

Jay Lankford

Rachel Dellheim ’93

Linda & Michael Graham

Sue & Mark Lankford

Elaine & Len* DeStefano

Nettie & Sterling Green

Lankford Acquisition Company, LP

Gina & Ted Diederich ’91

Lisa Grieco

Jamie Lauth

Kathleen Dinella

Lisa & John Guillaume

Rose Lawrence ’13

Jessie & John Dinome

Patricia Hacik & Robert Emery

Ashley & Jeffrey Leber

Mara Dixon

Kerry Hallam

Adam Lemisch

Noreen & Bill Donoghue

Pam Hamilton

Jennifer Lerner

Lorraine Wilson-Drake &

Crawford Hamilton ’01

Joanne Levy

Anthony Drake

Miles Hamilton ’07

Katy Lichtenstein ’95

Betsy & Michael Dubin

Samuel M.V. Hamilton III ’98

Sandy & Robert Lichtenstein

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

*Trustee

65

Report of Gifts Shannon & Tom Locher

Shira & Brad Paul

Liz & Pete Schofield

Joan & Robert Lodge

Janine & Michael Pawlowsky

Tobey & Sanford Schreiber

Suzanne Long & Glenn Krotick

William Pawlowsky ’96

Marie Schueren

Connie Lotz

Michelle Pearlman & Andrew Denker

Michel & Dean Schwartz

Eric MacDonald

Suzanne B. Perot

Kelly & Anthony Sciole

Dawn & Tim Mader

Kristen & Keith Peter

Theresa Scott

Sandy Madison

Amy & Jim Petersen

Anne Seelaus

Gail & Len Magargee

Natissa & Scott Pfautz

Cordelia Seeley

Jennifer Malone

Marie & Jacques Piquion

Kathryn & Andrew Semon

Dominic Mambu & Neely Tang

Deborah Pointer

Judith Sennett

Ann & Howard* Marcus

Robin Pointer & Rob Whalley

Virginia Sharpless

Jill Markovitz & David Salmanson

Alison & Chris Powell

Meghan & Kevin Shea

Melina Marmarelis & Samuel Takvorian

Sharyn & Joe Pozzuolo

Donna Shooster

Leigh Martin & Daniel Cassidy

Carrie & Bear Pratt

Tiffany & Rachel Silliman Cohen

Maria & Anthony Martin

Alison & Joseph Preisser

Joann & Charles Simmonds

Nicole & Elijah Martin

Christina & Bernhard Preisser

Alisha & Jack Slye

Julie & Timothy Mattaliano

Melissa & Andrew Purcell

The Slye Family Gift Account

Rose & Gary Mattaliano

Becky & Doug Pyle

Carolyn & John Smith

Carol & Louis Mayer

Ginger & Christopher Quinn

Jeanne Smith

Colin McAdoo ’98

Melinda Rahm

Marianne Smith

Elsie & McKinley McAdoo

Wayne Reichart

Joanna & Philip Solomon

Cynthia & Robert McClung ’81

Brianna & Adam Reid

Zeffie Spirokostas

Naketa McCray

Kristina Reisinger

Dorothy Squitieri

Susan & Brian McGowan

Anne Rice-Burgess*

Leslie Stein

Jami W. McKeon & John F. Hollway

Sally Robbins & Chris Martinak

Craig Stevens

Brysen McMullin ’12

Candice & Ben* Rogers

Jeralyn Svanda

Patricia & H. Brooke McMullin

Leslie Rogers Blum

Kim & Mark Sylvester

Joseph McPeak

Anna & Nicholas Romeo ’04

The Tally Foundation

The Mesigian Family

Betsy & Gerald Rorer

Alex Templeton

Marjorie Mitchell

Frances & Jonathan Rorer

Thomas Thompson

Trey Milby

The Rorer Foundation

Michele* & Mike Todd

Tara Mondello-Poole & Robert Poole

Rebecca Rosenstock

Jenelle Tomov

Mary Katherine ’08 & Nicholas

Brooke & David Rounick

Elise Twitmyer

Montgomery

Nahid & Mohammad Rowghani

United Way of Chester County

Elizabeth Morzuch & Sam Torres

Katherine & Ian Rubin

United Way of Greater Philadelphia

Mandy & Eric Muller

Joan Rufo-Simmonds

and Southern New Jersey

Margaret C. Naugle

Craig Rushmore ’06

Carolyn Utz ’83

Jacob Newmark ’15

Amanda* & Kevin Ryan

Nuriye Uygur

Cindy Berger Nissen ’96

Laura Sahlin ’04

Judith & Rodger Van Allen

Micah Nissen ’27

Dawn & Rich* Salerno

Laurie Veacock

Marcia & Neal Niznan

Debra & Harry Salerno

Jim Viner*

Susan Null

Kristine Sambuco

Anne & Jeffrey Walkenhorst

Amy & Tom O’Donnell

The Samuel D. Cozen Memorial Fund

Heather Warley

Jenna & Kevin O’Nell

Ellen & Doug Sanders

Teri Watkins

Colleen O’Hara

Donna & Michael Saulino

Nanci Weber & Bernard Schaeffer

Amy & Anthony Orapallo

Nicole Scali

Amber West ’84* & Pierce Buller

Joyce Ostertag

Cory & Rick Scheibe

Sarah & Paul Westcott

Jacquetta Owens

Marissa Schnelle & Mark Fiss

Cherie & Paul Williams ’80

Liz & Ken Parsons

Irene & Morris Schnyder

Kelli & Eliott Wilson

Julia & Thomas Patterson

Judy & Geoff Schnyder

Megan Wonderland

66

*Trustee

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Report of Gifts Merrie & Graydon Wood

First Resource Bank

Jennifer & Steve Wright

Gifts to Endowed and Restricted Funds

Mikaela Yatsinko

Frank S. Polizzi and Mass Marketing

Benchmark is the grateful recipient

Alyce Zenner

Insurance Group

of numerous gifts to our restricted

Kathryn & Frank Zirnkilton

funds, all of which provide valuable,

Tracey Young Zubey & Michael Zubey

Friends of Education LLC

but targeted, resources for the school.

Rev. Albert Zug

Made possible by Kate & Dave Black,

The gifts from these individuals not

Anonymous (5)

Jennifer Chipman & David Bloom,

only speak to their passion, but also

Janet & Neil Dabagian, Aimee & Vince

to their commitment to our school

Pennsylvania Tax Credit Programs

Fabiani, Sarah* & Shane Kinsella,

community. Many thanks to all who

The Benchmark community greatly

Kelly & Kevin Kolmer, Emily & Rob*

contributed to these funds.

appreciates the donors listed below

Lambert, Keith Morgan, Kevin Morgan,

who participated in Pennsylvania's

Barbara & James Rogers, Candice &

Beth Coltman Scholarship Fund

EITC (Educational Improvement

Benjamin* Rogers, Brooke & David

Made possible by The Coltman

Tax Credit) and OSTC (Opportunity

Rounick, Natalie Rounick, and Melina

Family Foundation

Scholarship Tax Credit) programs.

Marmarelis & Samuel Takvorian

These programs allow individuals and businesses who pay Pennsylvania

The Dr. Robert Gaskins Fund The Graham Family

state taxes to donate their state tax

for Mindfulness, Peace, and Social Justice

liability to a scholarship-granting

Harmelin Media

Made possible by Jennifer &

organization in exchange for a

Made possible by Joanne &

Robb Gaskins

significant state tax credit.

Jon Harmelin

AIM Scholarship 1 LLC

McLean Packaging Corporation

Memorial Scholarship

Made possible by Sasha Ballen &

Made possible by Mary &

Made possible by The Joey Pozzuolo

Diana Spagnuolo

Joseph Fenkel

Family Foundation

Business Leadership Organized for

Pennsylvania Education

The Peter B. Deakins Memorial Fund

Catholic Schools (BLOCS)

Partnership LLC

Made possible by Susan T. Deakins

Made possible by Monika & Joerg

Made possible by Ashly & Dan* Berger,

Ahlgrimm, Nikki & John Bendl, Ilene

Ilene & Steve Berger, Mindy & Jesse

Pincus Summer Scholars Program

& Steve Berger, Michele & Charles

Civan, Mary Ellen & Drew Weissman,

Made possible by Pincus Family

Bramley, Wendi* & Charles Chase,

Harris Wildstein, and Mark Wildstein

Foundation and Power for Good

The Joey Pozzuolo

Clark Capital Management Group,

Foundation

Inc. LLC, Elaine & Len* DeStefano,

Ryan Advisory Services, LLC

Laina & Rob Driscoll, Lesli Esposito

Made possible by Charles Ryan*

& Peter Verdi, Dawn & Nick Kemp, Keith Morgan, Cindy Berger Nissen,

Made possible by Charles Ryan* Softerware, Inc.

Sheri & Ken Resnik, Christine Stanko & Scott Burkholder, HSC Builders

The Promising Scholars Fund

The Sawyer Henry Weir Creative UGI Storage Company

& Construction Managers, Mark

Learning Initiative Made possible by Cheryl & Thomas

Wildstein, and Anonymous (2)

UHS Recovery Foundation, Inc.

Sawyer Weir

Central Pennsylvania

Utica National Insurance Group

Gifts in Memory

Scholarship Fund Made possible by Enzo Cafiero,

Benchmark School is deeply WSFS Bank

Lauren & James Maloney, and Brooke & David Rounick

appreciative of the gifts given by our donors in memory of friends

Anonymous

and loved ones. It is our privilege to remember the individuals listed

Comcast Cable Communications LLC

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

in bold type.

*Trustee

67

Report of Gifts Jim Bemis ’86

Joan Fox

Anna Simmonds ’27

Betsy & Charles Bemis

Jennifer & Robb Gaskins

Joann Rufo-Simmonds

Samantha Biscardi Cammarata

Dr. Robb Gaskins & Jennifer Gaskins

Leslie Stein

Lorraine & Guy Biscardi

Nuriye Uygur and Renee &

Jennifer & Robb Gaskins

Richard Erickson Anna Marie Everetts Melinda & Dan Rahm

Kelly Sullivan ’05 Seamus Glavin ’12

Jessie Dinome

Ann & Maurice Glavin Tracy Elizabeth Hottenstein Elizabeth & Charles Hottenstein

Michael Torres ’30 Douglas Gould ’81

Elizabeth Morzuch & Sam Torres

Donna & Lewis Gould Myrium Kutscher Robert Kutscher

Keaton ’27 & Leo ’32 Tucker Carly Hottenstein ’16

Wanda & Chuck Jurgensen

Elizabeth & Charles Hottenstein Helen Lawrence Joan Davidson

The Volunteers of Art Goes to School Ruth Kelemen

Patricia Hacik & Robert Emery

Jennifer & Robb Gaskins Gifts in Honor

Cami Woodruff ’22

The following generous donors have

Gregory Kenkelen ’10

chosen to celebrate the individuals

Marie & Jeffrey Kenkelen

Judy Galloway & Rick Woodruff

listed in bold type with a gift to Benchmark School in their honor.

Liza Kurtz Bragin ’93 Barbara & Alfred Kurtz

The Amazing Staff at

2024-2025 Benchmark Parents Association Committee Chairs

Benchmark School

Anna Lodge-Bausback ’13

Ruth Kelemen

The Davidson Family Charitable Fund

Evie Bartholdson ’24

Gavin Lotz Kaiser ’01

Carole & John Bartholdson

Connie Lotz

Ella Beauchamp ’28

Jason ’99 and William ’96 Pawlowsky

Laura & Jeff Beauchamp

Janine & Michael Pawlowsky

Benchmark Teachers and

Alex ’25 and Matthew ’27 Peter

Support Services Staff

Carole & John Bartholdson

President Sarah Kinsella, P’26 Vice President Jen Brion, P’28, P’30 Treasurer Jenna O'Nell, P’26

Judith Sennett

Secretary Donna Saulino, P’26

Barbara Rogers Blake Biscardi and His Classmates

Candice & Benjamin* Rogers

Stacy & Gaeton Biscardi Rich* & Dawn Salerno Andrew ’21 and Jayson ’23 Blum

Debra & Harry Salerno

Leslie Rogers Blum Laz Scheibe ’23 Lucas Elek ’09

Cory & Rick Scheibe

Sara Barton & Hentzi Elek Ashley Schnyder ’19 Sean Flynn ’12

Every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of this list.

If there are additions, corrections, or omissions, please accept our apologies and contact development@benchmarkschool.org.

Maria & Anthony Martin

Christine & Terrance Flynn Henry Shea ’26

Years listed following the names of our Benchmark alumni and parents indicate the year the student graduated or is expected to graduate.

Meghan & Kevin Shea

68

*Trustee

Benchmark Magazine | Fall 2025

Did you find the bobcat?

It's on page 34!

2107 North Providence Road Media, PA 19063-1898 610-565-3741 benchmarkschool.org mainoffice@benchmarkschool.org Address Service Requested

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