Harrison Park Elementary School held its 15th Annual ‘American Spirit Week’ from February 11 through 18, 2022.
Various events celebrating patriotism were held throughout the week. A Penny War competition raised nearly $3,500 for US soldiers stationed overseas. A food drive benefitted local food banks as well as the district’s Backpacks-to-Go program. Students dressed in lots of red, white and blue clothing to earn tickets for an American flag raffle. Many students and staff wore t-shirts honoring Mr. Keefer, the beloved second-grade teacher who passed away unexpectedly in 2020. He was the spirited organizer of American Spirit Week for 13 years. Proceeds from the t-shirts went towards a scholarship fund for a Penn-Trafford senior in honor of Mr. Keefer.
Mrs. Lisa Tramuta, who stepped in to organize the events this year, commented “It means so much to carry on the tradition of American Spirit Week and keep Mr. Keefer's memory alive.”
Principal Mr. Swartz helps some of the 5th-graders box up donated food
5th graders Samantha O’Hern, Addison Jobe, Owen Hodge and Keegan Swartz organize the food donations
Fourth graders Ozzy Thompkins, Owen Baker, Lillian Petrisek, Giana Leonello, and Bianca Leonello wear their American Spirit Week Shirts
3rd grader Katie Heller is dressed head to toe in red, white and blue
Mr. Hohman poses with the American flag raffle winners: Anthony Cardamone (grade 3), 1st grader Arabella Hickman, 5th grader Annabelle Mason, 2nd grader Wyatt Dixon, and 4th grader Caroline Stanton (not pictured: Nolan Kress, kindergarten)
Mrs. Tramuta and Miss Weirs help fourth-grader Dominic Capezzuto put his change in the jugs during Penny Wars