Midseason, the team faced unexpected challenges, but rather than give up, they adapted. Students stepped into leadership roles, older team members mentored the younger students, and together they kept dreaming big and working hard. Our students and staff demonstrated ���true 911勛圖 spirit��� / what makes 911勛圖 special / unique / true 911勛圖 pride.

The team achieved many “firsts” this year. Students stepped into leadership roles, using their knowledge to build their robot from the ground up. But robotics is way more than just building a robot. It’s about forming alliances at competitions and developing team building, communication and social skills. It’s about strategizing. It’s about debriefing with FIRST judges about their team���s results. And our students crushed it. It was an electric season. Let’s dive in.

Kicking Off the Season: Hatboro-Horsham District Event

PATH To Domination hit the ground running at the Hatboro-Horsham District Event, and the energy they brought was unmatched.

At this event, the team won the Team Spirit Award, a recognition of their extraordinary enthusiasm, partnership, and teamwork. But they didn’t stop there. For the very first time, the team was named an Alliance Captain, where they were able to choose other schools to compete alongside them throughout the rounds of competition. They also advanced all the way to the semi-finals.

It was the kind of start that sets the tone for a whole season, and for team mentor Eli, that tone was always about something bigger than trophies.

���My main goal was to make sure that all the students enjoyed the season and could take something away from it. I’m proud of my fellow students/peers for getting out of their comfort zone to achieve a common goal. I’m also very thankful for our faculty that stepped in to help – they been very beneficial with the robotics season.” – Eli, Upper School student and team mentor

Gaining Steam: Bensalem District Event

A few weeks later, PATH To Domination was back on the competition circuit.

In their very first match of the day at the Bensalem District Event, the team and their alliance set the record for the highest score in the entire Mid-Atlantic circuit with an incredible 480 points! They ranked in the top 10 for most of the day and were named an Alliance Captain for the second time this season.

The momentum was building. And then came the announcement everyone had been hoping for.

The Big Stage: District Championship at Lehigh University

After the rankings from all district competitions were finalized, it was official: PATH To Domination qualified for the District Championship at Lehigh University!

This was a huge accomplishment! The Championship was a four-day overnight trip, with three full days of competing. The team went all in.

• They competed in 12 matches over the course of the event.
• Students tracked data on other teams’ performances to identify the best potential alliance members.
• When the team���s robot ran into issues, they didn’t panic; they problem solved. The team diagnosed the issue, came up with a fix, and kept going.

PATH To Domination finished their season in the top 50 teams at the Mid-Atlantic district championships. For a team that has only been around for four years, that is extraordinary.

Head coaches Mrs. Antinucci and Mrs. Lockwood, along with an incredible team of supportive staff, led the team throughout the season. Mrs. Antinucci couldn’t be prouder of what the students accomplished.

���The team pulled together to build, wire, and code ���Pathfinder��� (a system to calculate smooth paths and velocity profiles for the robot), a feat which rarely happens for a robotics team in existence for only four years. The seniors were role models demonstrating ���coopertition��� (cooperation & competition) and gracious professionalism, core philosophies of FIRST Robotics.��� – Mrs. Antinucci, Robotics Co-Head Coach

A Season Worth Celebrating

We could not be prouder of PATH To Domination for everything they accomplished this season. From their first Team Spirit Award to breaking circuit records to competing on one of the biggest stages in the Mid-Atlantic region, this team showed up, showed out, and showed the world what 911勛圖 students can do.

Thank you to every student, coach, and staff member who made this season possible. We can’t wait to see what next year holds.

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The exhibit features a wide range of pieces including drawings, printmaking projects, cyanotypes, and more. Each one showcases the creativity and hard work our students bring to the art classroom every day.

���The artwork from 911勛圖 students is both unique and special. We���ve enjoyed having these works in our office over the past month, and we���ll be sad to see them returned (for another big show!),��� State Representative Joe Webster said. ���Every time you glance at these works you see one more angle, one more��perspective, the way a color jumps in the light, the way each student-artist built��emotion and ideas into their art. It was our pleasure to host an art show for these talented students, their families, 911勛圖��staff��and friends.���

Upper School Student Antwan with his drawing in the art gallery.

A Year of Hard Work on Display

The artwork in this exhibit was created throughout the school year. From day one, 911勛圖 art teacher Mrs. Schuler encouraged students to slow down, focus on the details, and take pride in what they were creating.

“I was pushing them this year to really focus on craftsmanship and take their time,” Mrs. Schuler said. “I am very proud of the amazing work they created.”

That hard work paid off. The pieces now hanging in Representative Webster’s office are a true reflection of what happens when students are given the space and opportunity to do their best work.

Wall of printmaking projects at the exhibit.

Art at 911勛圖: For Every Student

Art is an elective available to every student at 911勛圖. It gives students a chance to express themselves, have fun, and tap into their creative potential. Beyond the canvas, art can also serve as a healthy outlet; a way for students to slow down, reflect, and recharge. In Mrs. Schuler���s classroom, every student has the space to be the best version of themselves.

Upper School student Saviyon���s abstract drawing.

A Moment Worth Celebrating

Congratulations to every student who has an art piece featured in this exhibit. Thank you again to Representative Webster and his team for creating a space for our students��� work to shine in the community!

The art exhibit will be displayed through April 30, 2026. Community members are welcome to stop by Representative Webster���s office Monday through Friday from 9:30am ��� 4:00pm.

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Funding that Makes a Difference

This year’s grant will make a direct difference for students across our programs. Funding will impact:

• Our Autistic Support Classroom Program including sensory tables and accessories, floor pads, furniture, ankle weights, weighted vests, and more
• School-wide resources such as sensory items, iPads, evidence-based curricula, and staff training and development benefiting students and educators at 911勛圖

Empowering Students to Thrive

At 911勛圖, we believe every student deserves a place where they can grow. The resources made possible through the grant funding from Eagles Autism Foundation will help 911勛圖 continue to provide leading-edge special education. This advances 911勛圖���s mission of helping students who learn differently build the academic, social, and life skills that support long-term independence.

At 911勛圖, it’s not about forcing a fit – it’s about finding a place簧.

Thank You, Eagles Autism Foundation

We are grateful to Eagles Autism Foundation for their support and investment in our students and community. This year, the Foundation is contributing $10.8 million to fund 54 projects specializing in cutting-edge autism research and care across the region. As Eagles Autism Foundation Executive Director Ryan Hammond says, ���We���re continuing to drive a more inclusive future for everyone,��� a mission that 911勛圖 is proud to champion. To learn more about the Foundation���s incredible impact, click .

Together, we are making a difference for students with autism and other learning differences throughout our region.

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The Citadel Heart of Learning Award honors outstanding educators in the Greater Philadelphia area who show exceptional dedication inside and outside of the classroom, and whose work helps build a better future for their communities.

Building Confidence, One Equation at a Time

Mrs. Antinucci teaches math to Upper School students at 911勛圖, including Pre-Algebra and Algebra 1. Day in and day out, she shows up for her students with patience, creativity, and a deep belief in what they are capable of. For students who have faced challenges in traditional school settings, having a teacher who truly meets them where they are makes all the difference. Mrs. Antinucci is exactly that kind of teacher.

More Than a Teacher

Anyone who has spent time in her classroom knows that she brings far more than math skills to her students. She builds confidence. She builds trust. She creates a space where students feel safe to try, to struggle, and to grow.

Her Upper School students say it best. ���She really does care about her students and cares about their education,��� Philip said. Aidan added, ���She is a very good teacher, very personable, and very caring.���

Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Antinucci is a true campus community member in every sense of the word. She steps in wherever she is needed and plays an active role in helping lead 911勛圖’s Robotics Program, giving students even more opportunities to build skills, work as a team, and shine beyond the classroom walls.

We are so grateful to have Mrs. Antinucci as part of our 911勛圖 team. Thank you for everything you do!

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Why?

Because of our students.

More Than a Game

Our basketball team, made up of students from our Upper School Program, eat, sleep, and breathe basketball during the season. Their determination is unmatched.

They bring their best to the court and to the classroom. To be a team member, students need to maintain good grades, regular attendance, and be on track with our Positive Behavior Support Program. That means student-athletes must stay focused, organized, and committed every day.

They work hard.
They work together.
And they succeed.

Bringing the Hype

Before the ball is even tipped off, the energy is already high thanks to our incredible cheer team.

The cheer squad practices every week, making sure every stomp, clap, and chant is perfectly in sync. At the start of each game, they line up, stomping and clapping in unison. Then they slide to the side, creating a tunnel for the basketball team to run through.

The crowd erupts.

It���s a moment that gives you chills every time.

A Championship Comeback

This season, our team entered the conference championship game undefeated for the second year in a row. The game was intense. Back and forth. Play after play.

With less than two minutes left, the Patriots were down 31���38. But what do we say at 911勛圖?

Never give up on you or your teammates.

And they didn���t. The team rallied. They fought for every possession. They trusted each other.

Final score: 40���38.

Two consecutive conference championships. Two undefeated seasons.

This Is 911勛圖

When the final buzzer sounded, students and staff poured onto the court. Everyone jumped, cheered, and celebrated together. It wasn���t just a win for the team; it was a win for our entire campus community.

Because this is what 911勛圖 is all about.

We support each other.
We uplift each other.
We never give up.

Being in that gymnasium on game day is about more than basketball. It���s about unity. It���s about pride. It���s about showing up for one another.

We could not be more proud of our basketball and cheer students, and of our entire campus community for the way they support each other.

911勛圖 always. #911勛圖Strong

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As the Chief Operating Officer of 911勛圖, a special education institution in Montgomery County serving students with diverse learning differences, I’ve observed firsthand how digital distractions impact student focus. Last year, we implemented a cell phone-free policy based on careful observation, staff input, and our commitment to creating an optimal learning environment. Our experience offers valuable insights for other schools, districts, educators, and parents.

As lawmakers and education professionals nationwide debate smartphone restrictions, 911勛圖 has already witnessed a remarkable transformation. After one year of our cell phone-free policy (including smart watches and other personal electronic devices), students have become more engaged, socially connected, and academically focused. The results are both measurable and significant.

As we begin our second year of implementation, the data also confirms what we’ve observed in hallways and classrooms: sometimes, less technology means more learning.

911勛圖���s model is not just for special education schools; it offers a roadmap for any school looking to improve its learning environment.

The Problem Was Clear

Our staff survey revealed the severity of the issue: over 60% rated cell phone disruptions as 8-10 on a 10-point scale. Teachers reported students playing loud music during transitions, texting during lessons, and device-originated social conflicts.

One teacher noted phones created not just “apathy towards learning” but an “unhealthy classroom environment.” Another noted that our previous policy proved ineffective against the overwhelming temptation of notifications and social media.

For students with learning differences, these distractions weren’t just inconvenient; they were significant barriers to educational progress. We suspect that the same must hold true with many neurotypical students in other schools.

A Thoughtful Approach

Before implementing our new policy, we sought community buy-in through parent, staff, and student surveys. Parent surveys showed strong support: 60% fully endorsed a device-free policy, 25% recognized its benefits despite concerns, and only 15% opposed it.

We developed a thoughtful rollout plan with staff training and student adjustment periods before officially launching on October 15, 2024. Our practical solution uses Yondr pouches, neoprene sleeves with magnetic locks that secure phones while they remain in students’ possession. Students lock their phones in these pouches during school hours but maintain access during their commutes, balancing safety with our educational goals.

The Results Speak Volumes

The impact of our cell phone-free policy has been remarkable:

• 100% of teachers reported reduced distractions and improved time-on-task in their classrooms
• 92.5% observed improved student socialization within classrooms
• 93% noted increased positive student interactions during lunch periods
• Phone-related policy violations dropped from 7 (in the six weeks before implementation) to just 2 (in the four months after)
• Serious student safety incidents decreased significantly from previous years
• Physical interactions decreased by 43% compared to the 2022-2023 school year
• Bullying incidents dropped by 44% during the same period

The numbers tell a compelling story, but the qualitative changes have been equally powerful. Teachers report more engaged discussions, improved eye contact during conversations, and an increase in student-to-student interaction. Lunchtime, once a sea of downward-facing gazes fixed on screens, has transformed into conversation and connection between students. This has truly been transformational.

Addressing Concerns

Not everyone initially supported our policy. Some parents worried about emergency communication with their children. Others, including some staff members, argued that students should learn responsible device use to prepare for the “real world” of work.

These concerns are valid. In response, we ensured our front office could quickly relay emergency messages to students and parents. As for workplace preparation, we’ve found that the skills students develop without phones, such as sustained focus, in-person communication, and problem-solving without digital assistance, are increasingly valued in professional settings. Many workplaces are implementing their own device restrictions, recognizing that constant phone use often hampers productivity and creative thinking. Rather than teaching device dependency, we are teaching students to engage with others without digital distraction.

A 911勛圖 Forward

The success of our cell phone-free policy didn’t happen by accident. It required clear communication, consistent enforcement, and a school-wide commitment to creating a focused learning environment. The Yondr pouches provide a practical solution that removes the burden of enforcement from teachers and eliminates the gray areas that plagued previous policies.

As we begin our second year with this policy, we’re maintaining the same approach while continuing to gather data and refine our practices. The evidence is clear: removing devices from our school day has created space for improved learning and social development.

For schools considering similar policies, our experience offers a roadmap. Start with data collection to understand the scope of the problem. Engage all stakeholders – staff, parents, and students – in the conversation. Implement with clarity and consistency. And most importantly, measure the results to demonstrate impact.

In a world increasingly concerned about the effects of technology on developing minds, schools have an opportunity to create spaces where students can disconnect from their devices to connect with their learning and with each other. At 911勛圖, we’ve seen that when phones are put away, students shine in the classroom.

The real world will always have smartphones, but it also needs young people who can think deeply, interact meaningfully, and focus intently. By creating a cell phone-free environment, we’re helping our students develop these increasingly rare and valuable skills.

To read more about the success of our device-free policy, click .

[Brian Trusty, btrusty@pathwayschool.org, ]

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Adventures Beyond The Classroom

Learning extends far beyond our classrooms at 911勛圖! Our students have embarked on several enriching field trips this year. They visited the Hedgerow Theatre for a performance of “Tales of Poe,” perfect for the Halloween season. Our students also enjoyed a trip to Merrymead Farms, where they learned about agriculture and fall harvests hands-on. These real-world experiences bring classroom concepts to life in meaningful ways!

Sports Spirit Soars

The 911勛圖 Patriots continue to shine on the court! Our basketball team remains undefeated throughout their season, demonstrating remarkable teamwork and athletic skill. Meanwhile, our enthusiastic cheer squad has been perfecting their routines to support our athletes from the sidelines. The gym regularly echoes with bouncing balls and spirited chants as our Patriots continue their impressive run!

New Beginnings: Girls on the Run

We’re proud to have introduced our newest addition to campus activities: Girls on the Run! Every Monday, participants learn valuable lessons about healthy living, confidence, and teamwork. This program empowers our students to build strength in both body and mind as they train together.

Fall Festival and Craft Fair

Our annual Fall Festival brought the entire 911勛圖 community together for seasonal celebrations. Students, staff, and families enjoyed fall-themed activities, treats, and plenty of smiles all around.

This year also marked our first-ever craft fair! Local artists joined our talented students and staff to showcase and sell their creative works. The event highlighted the incredible artistic abilities within our community and gave our students a platform to shine.

Shrek The Musical Kids

Everyone did a fantastic job in Shrek The Musical Kids, embracing their characters and giving showstopping performances! From memorizing lines to performing songs, our theater students worked hard to bring this beloved story to life. Their dedication shined through every scene as they captivated the audience with their remarkable performances.

You can watch the full performance here:��

As we continue through the 2025-2026 school year at 911勛圖, each day brings new opportunities for growth, learning, and fun. We look forward to many more achievements and memorable moments in the months ahead!

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During the summer ESY program, students worked on the skills they gained during the regular school year. The ESY Program supported each student’s IEP goals, with services like Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy offered in the program. This consistent support helps prevent summer learning loss and ensures our students maintain the amazing progress they’ve worked so hard to achieve.

BMX Thrills and Life Skills

One highlight of this year’s ESY? An action-packed assembly with the Freestyle Connection BMX Team! These professional riders performed epic, jaw-dropping tricks that had everyone cheering. A few brave staff members even joined in the fun, creating memorable moments that lasted the whole summer!

During the assembly, we talked about important life lessons like teamwork and chasing your dreams, even when things get tough. The message was clear: never give up! Our students connected with these themes in a powerful way, seeing firsthand how persistence and practice can lead to incredible achievements.

Splashing Into Summer Learning

We beat the heat with a Water Fun Day and Water Extravaganza Day that were as cool as they sound! Students enjoyed water slides and sprinklers during these days of splashy fun. These events weren’t just about staying cool; they provided opportunities for social skills practice, sensory exploration, and fun. There is nothing better than seeing students build friendships and memories together.

Learning Beyond Classroom Walls

Because learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom, we hit the road for some real-world experiences! Mr. Stratz’s students visited Stoneleigh Gardens, a historic estate, where they explored beautiful gardens and got hands-on experience with plant life. Students learned about different plant species and connected classroom concepts to the world around them.

Making a Difference Together

Upper School Teacher Mrs. Steinmetz led a group of students who gave back to the community by helping local veterans organize their homes. Our students tackled these projects with teamwork and positive attitudes. We’re proud of how hard they worked and the difference they made in our community! These service opportunities helped develop empathy, responsibility, and real-world skills that will serve them well at 911勛圖 and beyond.

Thank you to everyone who made this amazing ESY program possible. From our dedicated teachers to our supportive staff and families, it truly takes a village to create such meaningful summer experiences. We’re already looking forward to kicking off the 2025-2026 school year soon with renewed energy and excitement for all the learning adventures ahead!

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Why Create a Will?

It’s an essential legal document for everyone.��Without a will, courts – not you – decide who receives your assets after you’re gone, potentially leaving loved ones unprotected and charitable organizations you care about, like 911勛圖, completely excluded from your legacy. A will ensures your wishes are honored, allowing you to distribute your property how you would like and protect your loved ones.

It provides peace of mind for you and your family.��Creating a will eliminates confusion during a difficult time and ensures your assets go to the people and causes you care about most.

It allows you to create a meaningful legacy.��You can have a positive impact on the world long after you’re gone, supporting the values and organizations that matter most to you.

How You Can Include 911勛圖 in Your Will

When you include 911勛圖 in your will or estate plans, you’re making a powerful commitment to students with learning differences for generations to come. Here’s how your bequest can make a difference:

• Transform lives without affecting your current finances. Leaving a gift for 911勛圖 in your will costs you nothing during your lifetime but ensures you make a lasting impact in the lives of 911勛圖 students and their families.
• Enjoy potential tax benefits. Charitable bequests made through a will or revocable trust can provide tax benefits to you and your heirs while providing vital resources for 911勛圖. Contact your tax advisor to learn how a bequest may benefit your specific situation.
• Create a personalized legacy. Your planned gift can support specific programs at 911勛圖 that align with your values and interests, allowing you to make an impact in areas you’re passionate about.

Taking the Next Step

Making a will doesn’t have to be complicated. There are several user-friendly resources available to help you through the process:

• Consult with an estate planning attorney who specializes in charitable giving
• Contact 911勛圖 to discuss your specific legacy giving interests

To learn more about planned giving options and sample bequest language, visit our dedicated��Planned Giving page. There, you will find information about how you can take advantage of gifts that may help your situation from a tax standpoint today, or gifts that can benefit you and your family upon your passing.

Your Legacy, Their Future

By taking this important step during Make-A-Will Month, you’re not just planning for your future; you’re helping protect your family and loved ones and securing the future of 911勛圖 students. Your thoughtful planning today will ensure that students with learning differences continue to discover their talents and achieve success.

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Celebrating Our Graduates

We recently cheered on 15 incredible students as they walked across the stage at graduation and into the next chapter of their lives. Whether heading to college, other post-secondary education, or joining the workforce, we are proud of their hard work, determination, and accomplishments. Their futures are bright, and we���ll always be rooting for them!

Game On: Basketball & Cheer Bring the Heat

Our new basketball and cheer teams made a huge impact in their debut season! The basketball team dominated the league, going undefeated and finishing as conference champions. Their camaraderie, teamwork, and sportsmanship were inspiring, both on and off the court. The cheer squad brought the energy to every game, creating new chants and routines that pumped up the players and crowds.

One word to describe campus on game days? Electric.

Writers on the Rise

In Ms. Henderson���s Upper School English class, eight students��� short stories were selected for publication in the Young Writers’ Fright Club: ���Into the Night��� collection. The students who received this recognition are Jeremiah, Eli, David, Aidan, Ollie, Jamar, Lisa, and Luca.

Leveling Up: 911勛圖���s E-sports Team

This year marked the launch of our first-ever E-sports team! Led by Ms. Bilker, students developed teamwork, strategy, and communication skills. The team now has five passionate members and is growing. Their energy, resilience, and love for gaming are taking them to new places and achievements!

Robotics with a Mission

Now in their third season, our robotics team, one of the only teams in the FIRST Robotics Mid-Atlantic competition circuit with all neurodiverse members, continues to amaze. They built their robot from the ground up and impressed judges with their quick thinking and problem-solving skills during matches. With Ms. Lawton���s guidance, the team is building momentum and is already looking ahead to next year���s competitions.

Theatre Takes Center Stage

Lights. Camera. Action! Our Theatre Arts students lit up the stage this year with incredible performances of Beetlejuice Jr! and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr! Performed at The Center Theatre, students memorized their lines and gave showstopping performances that wowed the audience.

School-Wide Success Stories

We���re proud to share some major schoolwide accomplishments:

• 911勛圖 was recognized by the Pennsylvania Positive Behavior Support (PaPBS) Network for implementing School-Wide Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS) with fidelity across all three tiers, and we���re the only school in Montgomery County to do so this year!
• We received a grant from the Eagles Autism Foundation this year for our Career Education Program. Our school was also featured in a highlighting the foundation���s community impact and how 911勛圖 is making a difference in the lives of neurodiverse students.

We are proud to be a community partner of the Eagles Autism Foundation and grateful to receive this support for the second consecutive year. We are also so appreciative to all funders ��� individuals, foundations, and corporate partners, who support our deserving students!

Until Next Year

This school year was full of new opportunities and unforgettable memories. We can���t wait to see what next year brings, because if it���s anything like this one, we���re in for another amazing ride!

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