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May 12, 2013
Greetings!
On this glorious Mother's Day, we are reminded of how our school began: when a group of young mothers found out their new neighbor, D. Esther Swain, was a teacher, they encouraged her to set up a Kindergarten for their children.
From the humble beginnings of that first classroom for "eight likable boys and girls" in a rented bedroom on Allentown's west side, our school has grown for 84 years, all thanks to the dreams of those mothers. And it has been mothers - among many others - who have taught, worked, and volunteered at The Swain School to help it become the wonderful environment it is today. Thank you, and Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers in our community!
And now on to some Swain stories from this past week, as well as news for and about our alumni -
PJAS hits the road
Eighteen of Mrs. Debbie Lindsay's  seventh- and eighth grade science students traveled to State College today, for the state competition of PJAS (Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science).
The young scientists had each earlier developed a theory and tested it in a series of experiments - in February they presented their findings at the regional competition. Everyone who received a first- or second place became eligible to travel to Penn State for the state event.
They will return on Tuesday from this great experience!
Fun with buddies
Students in  Mrs. Akers' and Mrs. Johnson's Prekinder-garten class have enjoyed their year-long relationship with the fourth graders in Mrs. Reger's class. They meet regularly to share books and fun activities - click on the photo to see their latest project (you can also visit their gallery to see pictures from two special visits by other friends). Wyatt and Aedryss take a break for Mrs. Akers' camera.
Mrs. Burnett's piano students shine
 The piano students of Mrs. Lisa Burnett have enjoyed taking lessons right at school, during this past school year. And on the past two Saturdays each of the 38 students performed for their families and friends at a pair of recitals.
An energetic piece for trio was played by (from left) Kyleigh, Hayley and Olivia.
Mrs. Burnett will offer piano lessons at Swain this summer for any new or returning students who are interested in working out a schedule with her. Contact her at swainpiano@gmail.com.
Alumni News
Congratulations to Megan Keller '11,  who was nominated for a Freddy award for her role in Moravian Academy's pro-duction of The Mystery of Edwin Drood.
Moravian received three nominations, including "Outstanding Overall Production by a Small School". Megan (far left) was joined in the show by (from left) Jade Appel '12, Andie Burns '10, Jamie Iacono '10 and Collin Brown '10 (and David Brandt '09, who was on the stage crew).
The Freddy Awards program will be broadcast the evening of Thursday, May 23, and Andie will be among the 120 local students who will appear in the opening numbers.
And calling all members of the Class of 2009 -
Before you head off to your next adventure, we'd like to help you celebrate the end of your secondary school career! Please join us on Tuesday, May 28 at 6 p.m. at Louie's Restaurant for some fun, good food, and sharing of memories and plans.
Please let Mrs. Werner know if you're coming - send her an email at mwerner@swain.org.
And in case you missed it... here is the link to the
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