PHSFEE donated $15,000 for the high school’s science programs, and two board members retired from their positions
The last Board of Education meeting of 2017 was a night of sizable recognitions and even bigger endowments.
The Palmyra High School Foundation for Educational Excellence, which raised more money than anticipated at its Casino Night fundraiser in September, presented Palmyra High School with $15,000 for the science program in the form of an oversized check.
“I don’t have a fancy proclamation, but I do have a very large check,” joked PHSFEE President Scott Warnock. “This year, we raised a lot of money at our casino night, and everyone had a lot of fun. Most importantly, it was very successful. In working with the school, we decided to raise money for science equipment, and now we would like to present this $15,000 to the school.”
BOE Vice President Keith Austin and President Nancy Brett attended their final meeting that evening, where they were presented with gold cards and thanked for their service to Palmyra Public Schools by Superintendent Brian McBride, who wished them continued success, happiness and good health on behalf of the district.
“I thank you for allowing me to represent this community for the last six years. It truly has been an honor. Palmyra is the best place I could possibly be,” Brett said. Both she and Austin are retiring from the board.
Palmyra’s fall athletes, ushered in by the PHS marching band, were recognized for their performance this past season. The marching band was also given a nod for its victories at the Vineland Cavalcade of Bands Competition and All-States Regional Championship in Allentown, Pa.
Though several injuries slowed the season down, the Palmyra football team finished off the season with a 5–5 record. The team graduates four seniors this year — Taj Harris, Davonte Vivian, Elijah Karnjay and Luke Flores.
Members of the PHS cross country team performed admirably, with Kayla Kearney setting a school record for fastest time by a freshman at 3,200 m and sophomore James Fries placing third overall in Burlington County.
The PHS soccer teams saw their most successful seasons in history, with the girls walking away with a 10–0 record in their division and the boys earning 19 wins. The boys allowed only 10 goals the entire season, according to Principal Ken Holloway.
The tennis team walked away with a 15–7 record, taking second place in BCSL Freedom Division. Holloway said the 15 wins included the first victory over Rancocas Valley High School in 17 years. All-star Angelica Johnson finished the season with a record of 22–0.
“People may say we’re just little Palmyra, but as you can see, we have some great things happening,” Brett said. “Everyone should be very proud of the students we have here.”
The Palmyra BOE will hold its reorganization on Jan. 3 at the Delaware Avenue School multipurpose room at 7 p.m.
