Abington Friends School

Reflections on Teaching: Setting Children on Their Own Course of Discovery

August 25, 2017

'I give children the tools they need to make good music and a roadmap to the creative process. As they listen and soak up all the information, they soon make the knowledge their own. After that, I guide, learn and see what magic unfolds.' — Lower School Music Teacher Keisha Hirlinger

Erik Talvitie ’00, Keynote Speaker at Commencement 2017

June 19, 2017

I really am honored to be a part of this celebration. When I sat in this very grove in my very own blue cap and gown, I couldn’t even begin to imagine that I would be back here in this capacity. Honestly, I couldn’t, in that moment, imagine most of the journey that would unfold from there.

Commencement 2017 Speaker

June 15, 2017

Dr. Erik Talvitie, associate professor of computer science at Franklin & Marshall College, was the commencement speaker on June 9 at the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2017.

Erik, who graduated from AFS in 2000, received a bachelor’s degree in computer science and mathematics from Oberlin College. He went on to earn a master’s degree and a doctorate in computer science from the University of Michigan.

The Discoverers: Joseph Rotella, Computer Programming

January 30, 2017

When freshman Joseph Rotella talks about his fascination with computer programming, it’s easy to sense his quiet intensity as he thoughtfully explains his reasons. But what takes a while to discern is that he also has a big heart — for helping his peers learn how to control computers, too.

The Discoverers: Jayne Pardys, History

January 25, 2017

For Jayne Pardys, a passion for history arose all of a sudden last year when a course she was taking during her junior year on “Philadelphia History” led her to a project that hit very close to home. She created a prize-winning documentary on the role that the Germantown Jewish Centre played in halting white flight in the early 1960s and promoting the successful racial integration of West Mt. Airy.

The Discoverers: Christina Juste, Science

January 22, 2017

When junior Christina Juste is sitting at her desk in her honors biology or AP chemistry classes, she often has a super focused look on her face. That’s because she’s consuming all the information she can. “I have a lot of questions,” she said. “And I feel like science is a good way to get my answers.”

The Discoverers: Saria Rosenhaj, Poetry

January 20, 2017

As a little girl, Saria Rosenhaj would make up stories as she walked through the woods with her cousin. They had made a deal that as long as she was talking, he would keep walking. But it wasn’t until ninth grade, when Saria discovered the power of poetry, that her conversations turned inward, creating characters and storylines that helped her make sense of her experiences.

The Discoverers: Brian Wang, Theatre

January 15, 2017

The theatre bug bit Brian Wang back in elementary school in China when he performed in a chorus, but now that he’s a junior at AFS, it’s become a full-fledged fever. Why is he so passionate about theatre? It gives him a way to try on different characters, at least while he is on stage. “In theatre, everyone acts. You try on different personalities and can experiment.”

Meet New State Rep. Jared Solomon ’97

January 13, 2017

AFS alum Jared Solomon ’97 was recently sworn in at the Capitol in Harrisburg as the new state representative for the 202nd Legislative District, centered in the Castor/Oxford Circle neighborhood of Northeast Philly.

Alum Teaches Physics Students Engineering Design

January 13, 2017

AFS alum Sierra Lanfranco ’13, who is studying mechanical engineering at Boston University, returned to campus to talk with students in Upper and Middle School science and computer classes.