Pennsylvania Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development

The 2023 Pennsylvania ASCD Mary Ravita scholarship has been awarded to Nicole Thomas. Nicole is a Dean's List student at Keystone College, where she is enrolled in the LEEP program, a rapid teacher certification track designed for aspiring educators. Upon completing this program, Nicole will secure her certification in special education for both K-12 and pre-K-4.

Nicole already holds a Long-Term Substitute Certification and has dedicated herself as a full-time Autistic Support Teacher at John F. Kennedy Elementary School within the Scranton School District. Her educational background includes a bachelor's degree in human development and family studies from Penn State University, where she not only maintained a spot on the Dean's List but also served as a Lion Ambassador.

Nicole's journey has been marked by challenges, but her unwavering resilience and determination push her to strive for continuous improvement, always aiming to be 1% better every day. In addition to her roles as a full-time mother, wife, student, and teacher, Nicole actively contributes to her community through volunteer work, making a meaningful impact.

Laura Dietrich

Laura Dietrich is the recipient of a scholarship from Pennsylvania ASCD for her continued studies in the education field. Laura is entering her senior year at Juniata College this Fall where she is a Dean’s List student studying PreK-4th Grade Education and PreK-8th Grade Special Education with a minor in Psychology. Laura is beyond excited to continue to learn and gain experience through her education and psychology classes as well as her practicums at Juniata College in preparation for the start of her teaching career after she graduates in May 2024. One of Laura’s passions as an educator is differentiating instruction to ensure that every student has an equal and fair opportunity at being successful in the classroom. 

Outside of academics, Laura is a member of the Juniata Women’s Lacrosse team, co-secretary for the Juniata Instructors of the Future Club, a Tri-Alpha Honor Society member,  a First Year Foundations Peer Facilitator, and is one of two women’s lacrosse members that serve on the Student Athletic Advisory Council. Additionally Laura also works as a day to day substitute during her summer and winter breaks, is a Community Engagement Chair for the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania, and is a camp counselor for a student recreational program over the summer.