In honor of its founder, D. Esther Swain, The Swain School held its annual Founder’s Day celebration Oct. 25. The Swain community gathered to hear words and music celebrating Mrs. Swain and the school she started in 1929 ‘with eight students.

In her remarks, Dr. Shannan Boyle Schuster, head of school, talked about the importance of service, even when it seems really hard. She shared the many ways Mrs. Swain was challenged, yet she persevered, leaving an incredible legacy that would make her very proud today.

Andrew Collins, of Fogelsville, represented the students, and spoke of the many opportunities and successes he has experienced since coming to Swain in sixth grade. He said he appreciates Swain for its balance between challenging academics and fun.

Since 2006, the Swain board has presented The Swain School Trustee Award for Community Service. This year’s recipient was Amy Beans, of Bethlehem, whose daughter Laree graduated in 1999. Beans has supported the greater community with her volunteerism at Swain, Meals on Wheels and most recently, the Birdsboro Community Center.

A Founder’s Day tradition at the school is the planting of a tree on the campus - started by Mrs. Swain Oct. 24, 1951.

Lonny, Jen and Brooke Stevenson, of Quakertown and George, Pia, Ty, Dahlin and Robesyn Allport, of Emmaus, donated trees class representatives helped plant.