Meet The PA Teachers + Community Leaders In The Spotlight

PENNSYLVANIA — While many towns in the Keystone State are home to some famous faces, we're taking some time to recognize local educators and community leaders whose work can sometimes go uncelebrated.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile, to help recognize how much our teachers and community leaders are valued and appreciated.

These people “make headlines” with significant and/or meaningful contributions in their communities. Nominators shared personal anecdotes and specific reasons about what makes each one of these people worth shining the spotlight on.

Here are some of the nominees in Pennsylvania:

Preserving history in Valley Forge: Molly Duffy, of Tredyffrin

"As the non-profit partner to Valley Forge National Historical Park, Molly is leading the Valley Forge Park Alliance through huge changes that will benefit national park and all of the communities that surround the park," her nominator wrote.

Going 'above and beyond': Dan Moretski, of North Penn

"Dan is not just a teacher but he goes above and beyond to inspire and educate kids. He is creative with his lessons and loves his dad jokes which makes the kids have fun while learning," his nominator said. "If a child is struggling or being bullied he goes above and beyond to help them to feel safe by working with the counselor and parents. When he isn’t teaching, he is a basketball referee and is the commissioner of a basketball league for kids."

'The love she has for each child': Rosemarie Marchese, of Lower Providence

This teacher's spouse nominated her for the Patch Spotlight, and said she "cares for these children and loves them like they are her children...She cares about these kids every minute she is with them."

Making a difference with kindness: Tara Stoop, of Doylestown

Tara runs Between Friends Outreach, a volunteer non-profit serving the at-risk community. Her nominator said: "She is able to assist thousands in our community - her organization supplies holiday gifts, food, shelter, and assistance with bills. She opened a house for those waiting for permanent housing. She believes anyone can make a difference with kindness."

'Did everything with a smile' Brian Gauvin, of Lower Merion Township

A parent nominated this Harriton High School physics teacher, celebrating: "The insane hours he devoted to the students, even driving projects to the competition in a van on many occasions so that the projects would not get damaged. Working weekends and holidays to help the students get ready for the competitions."

Puts 'whole heart' into educating kids: Christine Maguire, of Media

This third-grade educator "teaches with her whole heart," the nominator said. "She takes the time to build a positive rapport with each child so they feel comfortable to be themselves and gain confidence in themselves. She makes them each feel at home in her classroom so they can grow and learn as much as possible."

Dedicated educator with 47 years teaching: Dr. Elliot DeBella, of Newtown

"Dr. Elliot DeBella gave 47 years of service as an elementary and middle school teacher in the Edison Public Schools in Edison, N.J. Over the course of his career, he dedicated his time to educating thousands of students in the public school system. Sprinkled with humor, Dr. DeBella's humanistic approach to education hopefully helped his students to excel academically and personally, as well as to develop a love for learning."

Put simply, "she rocks!": Jesse Neiport, of Pittsburgh

This pre-k teacher has "complete dedication to each student to teach them while supporting their strengths and overcoming their challenges," her nominator said.
She is fun, serious, available, interesting and involved. She knows her students and communicates with parents. She has a challenging job but is there for the kids every day. She goes beyond the minimum requirements to instill a love of learning in her students."

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Know someone else in your community who deserves a shout-out?

Nominate teachers here, and community leaders here.