Colonial School District honors Jim Muscarella with Citadel heart of learning award

The Colonial School District Board meeting on May 15, 2025, began with a heartfelt tribute to Mary Jo Katona, an instructional aide at Colonial Middle School, who passed away recently. The board and community members observed a moment of silence in her honor, recognizing her two decades of dedicated service and the profound impact she had on students and staff alike.

Following the tribute, the board discussed several important topics during the meeting, including personnel matters, special education agreements, and the annual safety and security report. They also reviewed a request for real estate tax exoneration, highlighting ongoing financial considerations within the district.

A significant highlight of the evening was the recognition of Jim Muscarella, an engineering teacher at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School, who received the prestigious Citadel Heart of Learning Award. This award is presented annually to outstanding teachers across several counties, and Mr. Muscarella was honored for his exceptional ability to engage students through innovative learning experiences in STEM and entrepreneurship. Parents praised his positive influence and commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, particularly for young women in engineering.

Mr. Muscarella, who has been with the Colonial School District since 1995, has played a vital role in various educational initiatives, including the establishment of a national standardized high school engineering course. His contributions extend beyond the classroom, as he actively sponsors clubs like the robotics team and the Science Olympiad, and organizes engaging events such as the annual cardboard boat race.

The meeting, which lasted about an hour, underscored the board's commitment to honoring dedicated staff and addressing key educational and financial matters that directly impact the community. As the district continues to celebrate its educators, it also remains focused on ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all students.