THANK YOU TO THE ALUMNI WHO RESPONDED TO OUR QUERY AND SHARED STORIES OF THEIR TEACHERS!
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n the 1986 Springside yearbook, a student noted that teachers “spend time grading and sorting, planning, working, and sweating, just for us.” Some recognize the hard work of teachers in the moment, some upon reflection. Teachers don't just impart facts; they foster curiosity, encourage growth, and guide students toward their full potential. From the early days of Chestnut Hill Academy (CHA) and Springside School to the unified Springside Chestnut Hill Academy, thousands of educators have committed their careers to nurturing young minds. Beyond their teaching, they are steadfast supporters and, said many former students, lifelong mentors. Now, in hindsight, several alumni report just how influential their teachers were in their lives, both at school and beyond. Whether it was a chemistry teacher inspiring a student to start a school orchestra in the ’50s, a history teacher captivating a class with spellbinding World War II stories, or an athletic trainer instilling the confidence that shapes a future leader, their impact resonates for decades. These stories underscore the enduring bonds forged in this corner of Philadelphia.
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school magazine fall 2025