Dragon Tales Spring 2025 by Cynthia McGoff

A New Planning Process for A Brighter Future

MPFS has revamped its strategic planning process to be more agile and responsive. The previous five-year plan, created in 2015-2016, followed a traditional model involving extensive stakeholder task forces. MPFS has revamped its strategic planning process to be more agile and responsive, while still engaging the community and inspiring change. While inclusive, this approach proved time-consuming and resulted in a plan that lacked focus.

The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the limitations of long-term planning in a rapidly changing environment. Consequently, MPFS adopted a new annual planning model, balancing short-term needs with long-term vision. This streamlined process encourages community input while minimizing the time commitment required.

Each winter, the entire school community (current and former families, faculty, staff, Trustees, and Media and Providence Meetings members) participates in a survey to assess current perceptions of the school. Simultaneously, a smaller group of 30-50 strategic thinking partners, representing diverse community segments and subject matter experts, engages in a deeper exploration of key issues. These partners receive current MPFS data and relevant NAIS trends to inform their contributions.

In the spring, Trustees, strategic thinking partners, faculty, and staff convene for an annual Visioning Day. They review the previous year’s goals, analyze current feedback, and identify the most pressing issues and opportunities for the upcoming year.

Over the summer, Trustees and staff refine these recommendations into 2-3 top priorities (at least one short-term and one longterm), developing corresponding action plans.

Following the first full cycle in 2023-24, the board affirmed two goals: restructuring the tuition model to enhance accessibility and enrollment growth, and exploring strategic partnerships to promote organizational sustainability and enrich academic programming and student well-being.

Trustees are actively pursuing these goals, and progress updates will be shared at the end of the 2024-25 school year.

As the school begins its second year with this new process, we invite you to participate. In the coming weeks, invitations to the community survey and strategic thinking partner program will be distributed. Your feedback is invaluable in shaping a brighter future for MPFS. Please take the time to contribute.

— Greg Gephart, co-clerk of the MPFS Board of Trustees

Greg Gephart, co-Clerk of the MPFS Board of Trustees, alum parent

Media-Providence Friends School Endowment Funds

Media-Providence Friends School benefits from enduring support through the generosity of donors who establish and contribute to various endowment funds. These named funds ensure the school’s long-term sustainability while creating lasting tributes.

Endowment funds are typically created through:

• Bequests in donors’ wills

• Planned giving during donors’ lifetimes

In addition to named funds, MPFS maintains general endowment funds for:

• Scholarships

• Faculty salaries and professional development

• Technology

• Buildings and grounds

Each year, the school utilizes a percentage of the earnings from the endowment funds, following fund guidelines or addressing current needs. Donors, like you, can give gifts

to endow funds in honor or memory of loved ones. In doing so, you are creating a lasting legacy for MPFS that will continue to support our mission for years to come.

Types of Endowment Funds:

• Named funds (for specific purposes)

• General/unnamed funds (for broader use)

Endowment contributions are not just financial support but a crucial part of our school’s mission. They provide ongoing resources that enable us to offer meaningful learning experiences for our students. Your contribution to these funds ensures that MPFS can continue to provide high-quality education for future generations.

For more information on making a gift to an existing fund or to discuss bequests and planned giving options, please visit mpfs.org/planned-giving and contact Cynthia McGoff, Assistant Head of School for Development, at cmcgoff@mpfs.org.

Your Role in the MPFS Independent School Community

alum parent) pose for a photo at our annual Pizza Pumpkin Night. This event, hosted by the school and Media Meeting, brings together families, teachers, Meeting Members, trustees, and young alums for a night of community on the playground with tasty treats and a visit from our beloved mascot Dazzle Dragon.

MPFS is dedicated to fostering a strong partnership among students, families, and the school. As we continue our journey together, it’s essential for families to understand their role within our independent school community to maximize their child’s experience at MPFS.

The Independent School Difference

MPFS operates as a non-profit organization, distinguishing itself from public schools. Unlike public institutions, MPFS relies on tuition and community support rather than government funding. This model allows the school to uphold its educational philosophy and values while delivering a highquality, comprehensive education tailored to student’s needs.

Financial Structure and Tuition

Transparency in financial matters is a priority at MPFS. Here are some key points regarding our financial structure:

• Tuition alone does not cover the total cost of each student’s education.

• The school is committed to offering need-based financial aid, with 45.16% of families currently receiving some form of assistance.

• If finances pose any concerns or challenges for your family, we strongly encourage families to apply for financial aid to ensure uninterrupted access to our educational programs.

The Crucial Role of Community Support

The financial contributions from our community are vital for sustaining operations. Support from current families, alums, parents of alums, and other community members helps bridge the gap between tuition and actual costs. This generosity enables MPFS to provide:

• Professional development and competitive faculty salaries – Ensuring our educators remain highly skilled and motivated.

• Maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios.

• Facility improvements – Enhancing the physical environment to support learning and growth.

• Values-based holistic student instruction – Delivering education grounded in simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equity, and stewardship.

• Robust financial aid – Making an MPFS education accessible to a diverse range of families.

Being Part of the MPFS Family

Education at MPFS is a collaborative effort between students, families, and the school. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate through:

• Regular communication via conferences, progress reports, newsletters, phone and emails

• Parent involvement and volunteering opportunities

• Attend Guest Speaker Workshops

• Education and child development programs

Financial Stewardship

At MPFS, we emphasize financial stewardship through responsible management and transparency, guided by the rigorous oversight of our Board of Trustees. This ensures that every dollar of income is utilized efficiently and effectively. Our strategic resource allocation prioritizes several key areas:

• High-Quality Student Instruction: Ensuring our students receive the best possible educational experience.

• Outstanding Faculty and Staff: We hire exceptional educators and support personnel offering competitive salaries, access to professional development opportunities, and a solid work/life balance commitment to cultivate a positive and supportive work environment.

• Robust Financial Aid: Committing to substantial financial support for students to enhance accessibility to education.

• Facility Maintenance: Maintaining our facilities to provide a safe and conducive learning environment.

• Essential Support Services: Offering necessary services to staff and operations to ensure smooth functioning. We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in education quality and financial aid, and we encourage open dialogue with our community regarding any questions or concerns.

Kathryn Ombam (MPFS parent/alum parent), Wendy Sturtz (MPFS parent), Bill Wolff (MPFS parent), Charles Ombam (trustee, MPFS parent, alum parent), Michael Hall (MPFS

FINDING HER VOICE: How MPFS Shaped a Prize-Winning Author

Avitus B. Carle, a proud member of the Media-Providence Friends School class of 2004, has built a life and career shaped by a deep love for storytelling. After attending MPFS, Avitus continued her education at Westtown School, where she embraced Quaker values and spent her final two years as a boarding student. She later attended Old Dominion University and now resides in Pennsylvania.

The origins of Avitus’s passion for writing can be traced back to her time at MPFS. A pivotal assignment from T. Nancy — creating a book of poems — sparked her love for writing, particularly flash fiction. She also found encouragement in T. Angela’s math class, where the feeling of being seen and recognized motivated Avitus to connect with others who truly saw her potential.

Avitus earned an MFA from Spalding University, where inspiring professors further fueled her literary aspirations. She is particularly drawn to writing about objects, finding meaning and storytelling potential in non-living things. Her debut flash fiction collection, These Worn Bodies, won the 2023 Moon City Press Short Fiction Award and has been praised by literary critics.

For young, aspiring writers, Avitus offers simple but powerful advice: read often and widely. She encourages students to explore books beyond school assignments and venture into genres outside their comfort zone. She also suggests that middle school is a pivotal time to experiment with different writing styles and techniques.

Avitus continues to explore the power of words, staying true to the passion that first took root at MPFS. When she isn’t writing flash fiction, she edits exams, a role she has embraced for several years. Learn more at avitusbcarle.com.

Your Role in Our Community

As an MPFS family, your active engagement is crucial to the school’s success. By participating in school events and activities, you not only enrich your child’s educational journey but also help strengthen the bonds that make our community unique.

Through your presence at community events, volunteering, and financial

If you’re an MPFS alum who’d like to to be featured here (if your an alum parent who’d like to nominate an alum!), please contact Director of Marketing & Communications, Cristina Perachio at cperachio@mpfs.org

contributions, your support ensures we can maintain an educational environment rooted in Quaker values. This holistic approach fosters intellectual, social, emotional, spiritual, and physical development for all students.

The commitment of MPFS families is invaluable in creating an environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.

If you have questions about your role in our community or want to explore ways to get involved, please contact the school administration. MPFS: Together We Thrive!

Avitus B. Carle, writer and MPFS alum, Class of 2004

SHINE, SHOWCASE, AND SHARE:

The MPFS STEAM Showcase is Back — and Grandparents & Special

Get ready to witness the brilliance of our young scientists and innovators!

The Media-Providence Friends School STEAM Showcase is returning, bigger and better than ever, and this year we’re thrilled to welcome grandparents and extended family to join the celebration! Mark your calendars for April 23, 2025 and prepare to be amazed by the ingenuity and passion of our preschool through grade 8 students.

This year’s theme, “Food & Culture in Social Justice,” promises to be

Friends Are Invited!

This year’s showcase will feature a diverse range of projects. Fourth Grade Teacher, Teacher Holly shares, “I’m looking forward to growing plants together and investigating more about the plants we grow to nourish us. T. Denny and I will collaborate and explicitly help the students build connections and ask questions about the nutritional value of various plantbased foods, where our food comes from, who and how different folks have access to nutritious foods, as well

both thought-provoking and inspiring. Students have been diving deep into complex questions surrounding food access, equity, and the cultural significance of what we eat. From exploring food deserts in Philadelphia to investigating the nutritional value of locally grown plants, our students are tackling real-world issues with creativity and determination.

“The STEAM Showcase is a unique opportunity for our students to shine,” says Teacher Denny, Lower School Science Teacher, and one of the dedicated teachers behind this event. “It’s the culmination of everything they’ve learned, a chance to articulate their understanding and growth. It’s not just about showcasing their knowledge, but also their ability to communicate it effectively.”

as how our environment affects what we can grow, share, and distribute to people.” Middle School science teacher Teacher Daryl adds, “Karen (our art teacher) and I constantly think about problem-based learning, and we really thrive on solutions to those issues in STEAM. We’re looking at how that ties into social justice.” Last year, students tackled issues from lip balm advocacy for bees to letters to the mayor’s office about community gardens. This year promises even more innovative and impactful projects.

But the STEAM Showcase is more than just a science fair. It’s a platform for students to develop crucial life skills. Librarian and Technology teacher Teacher Kristen emphasizes “ownership of learning,” noting that students don’t just regurgitate facts;

they truly understand their projects and can explain them to others. T. Holly adds that students are “invested in how they create” their projects. Middle School Math teacher Teacher Jen points out the reinforcement of learning that comes from talking about their work: “They become masters, saying it multiple times.”

T. Karen and T. Holly highlight the students’ ability to “scaffold for each individual audience,” from preschoolers to grandparents, adapting their explanations to different levels of understanding. This develops their communication skills and builds confidence.

And speaking of grandparents, we’re so excited to welcome them and other special friends to this year’s event! T. Denny explains the importance of this intergenerational connection: “When students are able to ‘Teach one,’ it demonstrates a deeper understanding of the material. Grandparents provide the perfect audience for this crucial step in the learning process.” Their presence also enriches the overall atmosphere, creating a supportive and celebratory environment for our young learners.

The STEAM Showcase is a testament to the power of hands-on learning and the importance of community engagement. It’s a chance for our students to shine, showcase their talents, and share their passion for STEAM with their families and the wider community. We encourage everyone to come out and support our students as they explore the fascinating intersection of food, culture, and social justice. You’re sure to be inspired by their creativity, knowledge, and commitment to building a more equitable food system. We can’t wait to see you there!

Greener Partners and their mobile farm visits MPFS during STEAM Week 2024, teaching students about sustainability in food through their seed-to-plate education program!

These trips are integral to our educational philosophy, cultivating essential life skills through social and emotional learning:

• Resilience: Overcoming challenges and adapting to new situations. These trips present new environments, social dynamics, and challenges, requiring students to navigate unfamiliar situations, problem-solve collaboratively, and adapt. Third-grade teacher T. Shannon notes the foundational life skills practiced, from packing bags to managing belongings. “It’s amazing to see them take charge,” she says. Fourth-grade teacher T. Holly adds, “Students learn they can count on themselves, classmates, and teachers, enjoying an exciting away-from-home experience and overcoming moments of discomfort.” These trips are also a chance for families to build resilience. Letting go can be hard, but these experiences foster independence in children and trust in the school’s supportive environment.

Shannon emphasizes communication with families, especially those with children who have specific needs. “The more open families are, the more I can help,” she says, highlighting virtual tours, individual meetings, and regular updates during trips. We understand that sending your child on an overnight trip can be a big step. Our teachers and staff are experienced in supporting both children and families through this process. We encourage open communication and are here to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have.

At MPFS, we believe in “Meaningful Learning, Purposeful Life.” This philosophy is woven into our curriculum, including these trips. They cultivate empathy, respect, and kindness, developing responsible global citizens. Shannon connects the trips to Quaker values, particularly community, equality, and stewardship: “It’s all about being together and appreciating the natural world.”

• Self-awareness: Understanding their strengths and weaknesses. Through these experiences, students gain insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and coping mechanisms, learning to identify and communicate their needs, fostering self-reliance and emotional intelligence. Holly observes, “Stretching ourselves this way, in a safe environment, makes us stand taller.” Shannon highlights the boost in confidence: “Many kids have anxieties about being away. Seeing them accomplish this is incredible.”

• Community building: Fostering strong relationships and supporting each other. These trips build strong bonds with peers and teachers, emphasizing teamwork, cooperation, and mutual support. Shannon emphasizes the equality fostered: “Everyone is on an even playing field, experiencing the same activities, creating a strong bond.” Holly notes the joy of sharing these adventures: “It’s a joy to bring back the stories and share them with family.”

These trips benefit families too, offering opportunities to support their children’s growth and model resilience.

The strong relationships students build provide a foundation for personal and academic growth. Our supportive environment encourages students to learn from mistakes, embrace challenges, and navigate life confidently.

We invite you to learn more about our field trip program and its contribution to students’ holistic development.

Middle Schoolers help each other climb a ropes course in the forest at Bear Creek.

Third graders at Ashland Nature Center explore the waterways and wildlife.

Fourth Graders at Pocono Environmental Education Center balance walk across the creek and enjoy the view of a waterfall.

MPFS named best Summer Camp & Preschool

MPFS was named a Talk of the Town Favorite for Best Summer Camp & Preschool for 2024! This fantastic achievement was a testament to the outstanding dedication and passion of our camp staff, who made each summer special and memorable, as well as our preschool staff, whose year-round commitment ensured a nurturing environment mpfs.org/camp and learn