S.A.G.E. Through the Ages

Men and women over 55, are a wealth of knowledge and role models for today’s youth.  Yet, they don’t always have an outlet to share those experiences with others.  Taking note of this dilemma, Beryl Katz, a former high school educator, parent and active community member, saw an opportunity to unite seniors with youth in order to enrich educational experiences in the classroom.  In 1998, Beryl’s vision, Senior Adults for Greater Education became a reality in the Council Rock community.  As more neighboring school districts inquired about the intergenerational program, S.A.G.E. incorporated into a not for profit organization in 2003.    

Now entering its fifteenth year, Senior Adults for Greater Education reaches well over 5,000 students annually in member districts of Council Rock, Bensalem, Hatboro-Horsham, New Hope - Solebury and Saint Andrew.  The power of S.A.G.E. lies within our volunteers and their excitement and enthusiasm for life.  Each volunteer’s experience is unique.  In the next paragraphs we’ll take a look at veteran and new volunteers who’ve made a distinct impression on the students and schools they serve.

Sylvia & Ron Rosenberg of Richboro have volunteered with S.A.G.E. for 14 years. The husband and wife team began volunteering at Sol Feinstine Elementary, and quickly transitioned to Richboro Elementary where they have resided for the past 12 years.  Sylvia, a retired secretary, volunteers with a 2nd grade life skills class that teaches students about reading and phonics while her husband, Ron, volunteers with 3rd grade math classes.  They enjoy their time in the classroom and it gives them added satisfaction to be acknowledged for their work in the schools while they are in the community.  “When we run into former students at the grocery store, they immediately recognize us and remember the wonderful experience with S.A.G.E.  That type of recognition is priceless,” says Sylvia.   

Another husband and wife duo, Matt & Nancy Korecki have also volunteered in the Council Rock district for years.  After hearing about S.A.G.E. through neighbors, they decided to give it a try.  Matt, a retired veteran of the Air Force loves working with 1st graders because they are funny and show the utmost respect to adults.  Giving history lessons and speaking about the importance of Veteran’s Day are just a few of the ways Matt and Nancy make a difference for the great students at Maureen Welch Elementary.  The Korecki’s say it’s very important to emphasize teamwork and discipline through their interaction with students.  These core values help shape students’ self-esteem and attitude towards others.     

This is the inaugural year for Hallowell Elementary in Montgomery County and already our volunteers are leaving their mark.  Team Brechmann, Elaine & George Brechmann, volunteer with a 2nd grade physical education class.  As experienced HAM radio operators, they often assist with air shows, parades and marathons.  Although they volunteer at senior centers teaching others about interacting properly with George’s Seeing Eye dog, Dutchess, they initially didn’t think S.A.G.E. would suit them.  However, they’ve found the principal, teachers and students at Hallowell to all be very warm and open.  Elaine & George’s motto is “never let your age or ability interfere with making a difference.”

Another volunteer who’s carved out a niche at Hallowell is Terry Beans, a retired USN Vietnam Veteran.  He was a former police officer and a quality control manager until a hemorrhagic stroke ended his working days.  Terry volunteers at a local hospital working with the family counseling branch of the stroke unit.  Terry’s daughter attended Hallowell and suggested he look into S.A.G.E. since he enjoys staying active.  To Terry the idea of getting involved with the school and having the opportunity to interact with the kids and learn from them as well was reason enough to sign up for the program.  From working with students in the computer lab to assisting with math, spelling and geography classes, he finds the teachers to be very receptive to the program, very friendly and helpful.  In addition, he adds that the students at Hallowell are very much involved with their learning experience, and are honest, an important quality to develop at a young age. 

S.A.G.E. not only provides students with unique learning experiences, it also gives Seniors a chance to reengage with the learning process of their community schools.  Our volunteers are more than “champions for a good cause,” they are role models whose impact never fades.  This Spring, S.A.G.E. will expand into several elementary schools within the Philadelphia school district.  Look for more good news from Senior Adults for Greater Education in the future.   

WHAT IS S.A.G.E. TM?

Senior Adults for Greater Education (S.A.G.E.) is a 501©3 non-profit organization that promotes involvement of people 55 and over in community schools to create positive role models for youths, resulting in mutually rewarding intergenerational experiences and beneficial partnerships between school districts, teachers and students.  SA.G.E has been a continual source of dedicated service and innovative educational supplements in Lower Bucks County since 1998.  Today, S.A.G.E has nearly 1,200 members and reaches well over 5,000 students annually. Visit www.beasage.org or call 215.357.2332 to learn how you can make a difference in your community.