Congratulations to Danielle Gwyn, Dave Ohl, and Deb Gerlach for recently being named Penn Manor’s Outstanding Educators and Employee for the 2025-2026 school year.
Danielle, a fourth-grade teacher at LeTort Elementary, is the Outstanding Elementary Educator; Dave, a physical education teacher at the high school, is the Outstanding Secondary Educator; Deb, cafeteria manager at LeTort, is the Outstanding Employee.
Danielle has served the district in this role since 2008, and brings great enthusiasm to her classroom and school each day.
“Anyone who is lucky enough to know Danielle, knows that she is absolutely deserving of this recognition,” said LeTort teacher, Liz Binkley. “Not only is she an enthusiastic and dedicated teacher, she is also an incredible colleague and an even better friend. She truly brings out the best in the people around her. She is an outstanding educator and person! I am so fortunate to work with her every day.”
“It is a true privilege to recognize the incredible achievements of two of our LeTort employees – Danielle Gwyn, our Outstanding Elementary Educator, and Deb Gerlach, our Outstanding Employee of the Year,” said Lisa Suydam, LeTort principal. “These honors are a testament to the talent and care we have here at LeTort and highlight the dedication these two women pour into our school every day.”
Dave has served the district for over 30 years and will retire at the end of the school year. Prior to teaching, Dave was the district athletic trainer for 14 years. He quietly goes about his day to serve his students and the teachers that he works with.
“Dave is an exceptionally deserving candidate for Outstanding Secondary Educator of the Year. Throughout his time at Penn Manor, Dave has served in a variety of roles, transitioning between them seamlessly and always maintaining a high level of professionalism. He is calm, composed, and consistently demonstrates the kind of steady leadership that positively impacts both students and staff,” noted BillieJo Kramer, high school physical education teacher.
“Dave is the kind of educator who is always prepared and punctual, setting a standard of excellence in his daily work. Beyond that, he remains approachable and personable, making him someone colleagues can rely on not only as a coworker but also as a friend. He is willing to step in with thoughtful advice and mentorship when challenges arise, offering guidance that reflects both experiences and genuine care,” said Kramer.
“Dave is very professional. He cares for each of us and works tirelessly to ensure our department needs are met,” said Heather Paquette, high school physical education teacher.
Deb has served the district for 26 years, and provides some of the best meals on a daily basis to fill the bellies of the students and staff at LeTort.
“Deb’s passion and kindness shine through in everything she does,” said Courtney Kolp, director of food services. “She goes above and beyond to make the LeTort Cafeteria feel like a true ‘resort,’ creating an environment where students and staff feel welcomed and cared for. Her commitment to providing high-quality meals keeps everyone coming back for more, and her dedication makes a lasting impact on our entire community.”
“We are deeply blessed to have a team that remains steadfastly student-centered, and Danielle and Deb perfectly embody our shared mission of continued excellence. Please join me in once again celebrating their hard work and the positive impact they have on our entire LeTort community! Congratulations Danielle and Deb,” noted Suydam.
Congratulations Danielle, Dave, and Deb! We are so grateful for all you do for our students.