August 2023

Dear Lower Merion Community,

When I was a child, summer seemed endless. Swimming, bike rides, trips to the shore and playing outside were the only items on my to-do list. Much has changed over the years, and now each summer is filled with preparation and anticipation for a new school year. This summer has been particularly exciting, having the opportunity to transition into my new role as your Superintendent. I am truly honored to serve the Lower Merion School District, and I thank the Board of School Directors for the faith and trust they have placed in me.

Here is some important information you should know for the start of this school year:

• Class and bus schedules will be available in PowerSchool: Friday, August 25, 2023
  • Please note, there is a NEW Bus Status app.
  • If your student(s) take a bus, you should download “Bus Status 4” from the App Store or Google Play and delete the old Bus Status 3 app from your devices
• The first day of school for Grades 1-12 is Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023
• The first day of Kindergarten is Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023
• The LMSD website also has a new app, which is available in the App Store and Google Play
  • More information about using the LMSD app is available here.

I look forward to many opportunities to meet our families and community members over the next few months. In the coming weeks, we will share dates for “Ask the Superintendent” sessions and other events and meetings at which I will be available. In the meantime, though, I would like to share my experiences and background. Over the last two decades, I have served as a teacher, principal, curriculum supervisor, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. In each position, I held fast to the core value that ALL students can and will reach their maximum potential when we provide a high-quality education, along with the time and support they need to grow and develop. As you get to know me, you will learn about my passion for early literacy, special education, and ensuring students are successful in school and beyond our K-12 walls. 

You will often hear me say “Your kids are my kids.” I truly believe that statement. As we embark on the new school year, you will notice an increased focus on student voice and how we can ensure that our schools and classrooms respond dynamically to the needs of our students. You will see this in the continued planning for the implementation of healthy start times, in our conversations about full-day kindergarten and in our work to engage our community in strategic planning for the future.

In my short time in the District to date, I have been impressed with the dedication of our administrators and staff, all of whom are focused on ensuring our students’ success. I look forward to our schools being filled with students and staff, and to becoming an active member of the Lower Merion community!

My best,

Steven M. Yanni, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools