Hello everyone!

I would like to welcome the entire McDonald Bulldog community to the 2022-23 school year!  It is going to be another great year of growth and memories for our students.

Having now seen students enter McDonald as kindergarteners, and leave as middle schoolers, I feel fortunate to be able to be an integral part of McDonald Elementary. Our students move from learning how to read, to being able to analyze multiple texts. It is truly amazing! Young students are like sponges, and they soak up every learning opportunity that we (school and family) provide for them.  It is with tremendous pride I serve as your assistant principal.

Here is some information about my professional background:

I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Syracuse University (Go Orange!) and a Master’s Degree in Music Education from University of Massachusetts Amherst.  Most recently, I have received a Master’s Degree in Education Administration from Gwynedd-Mercy College.

I started my professional career at the A.B. Bruce School (Grades 3-8) in Lawrence, Massachusetts, where I taught classroom and general music.  In 2001, my wife and I moved to Pennsylvania to be closer to family.  I was hired as a music teacher at Klinger Middle School, where I directed the bands and jazz band.  I have also taught two years of instrumental music at Stackpole Elementary.  I enjoyed serving as assistant principal at McDonald Elementary from 2010-2015, and principal from 2015 until 2017.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two daughters.  My interests include triathlon, genealogy, and playing trombone.

At McDonald Elementary School, we are committed to giving each individual student the opportunity to grow in a safe and nurturing environment.  If you ever need to contact me, please reach me at [email protected] or (215)441-6157, ext 16002.

Sincerely, 
Michael VanBuren
Assistant Principal