Penn-Delco Celebrates 2025 Making A Difference Award Winners

I’m incredibly grateful to be part of a district that truly values inclusion and community. Ms. Emily Phillips, 2025 Making A Difference Award Winner

We are proud to announce the winners of the 13th Annual Making A Difference Awards, hosted by the Delaware County Right to Education Local Task Force. These awards recognize students and adults who exemplify the spirit of inclusion through perseverance, advocacy, and everyday actions that help create welcoming school communities.

This year, Penn-Delco had 19 nominations - a true reflection of the compassion, collaboration, and commitment shown by our staff and students to ensure that everyone belongs.

The Making A Difference Awards honor:

• Students who have overcome challenges to succeed in inclusive settings
• Students who have gone above and beyond to support, include, and uplift peers of all abilities
• Adults who demonstrate extraordinary efforts to promote acceptance, understanding, and inclusion for all children

2025 Student Honorees

• Jack Abate (10th Grade; Sun Valley High School)
• Chloe Crego (12th Grade; Sun Valley High School)
• Elena DeMarco (5th Grade; Aston Elementary School)
• Quinn Walters (5th Grade; Aston Elementary School)

2025 Adult Honoree: Ms. Emily Phillips

Our district is also proud to celebrate Ms. Emily Phillips, a third-grade teacher at Pennell Elementary, as one of this year’s adult honorees.

“This award is especially meaningful to me because promoting inclusion is something I’ve always been passionate about,” said Phillips.

Inspired by her mother, a special education teacher, Ms. Phillips earned dual certification in Early Grades Preparation and Special Education from West Chester University. Her time student teaching in an Autistic Support classroom helped shape her approach to inclusive education.

"That experience continues to influence my teaching today. I strive to create a classroom where all students feel seen, supported, and valued.”

Now in her third year at Pennell, Ms. Phillips consistently requests to include Autistic Support students in her classroom because she believes in the power of connection and shared learning.

“Each child brings something unique to our classroom, and I want to build a space where all students can learn from and celebrate each other’s differences.”

Beyond her classroom, Ms. Phillips coaches Girls on the Run and serves on the Leader in Me Lighthouse Team, helping to foster leadership and school spirit among students and staff.

“I’m incredibly grateful to be part of a district that truly values inclusion and community.”

Please join us in celebrating these outstanding individuals who will be honored at the 13th Annual Making A Difference Awards Ceremony on Thursday, May 29 at Penncrest High School. It will be an inspiring evening to honor those who are truly making a difference in the lives of students across Delaware County.