Tacony Academy Charter School, 1330 Rhawn St., last week hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of “Porter’s Corner,” a newly built mini library dedicated in memory of Alaine Porter, a beloved teacher who passed away suddenly in 2023 at age 35. The space features comfortable new furniture, shelving, books, a plaque and a colorful wall mural painted by art teacher Amber Ganzelli that includes the words, ”Once a Lion … Always a Lion.”
The Oct. 8 event took place on the two-year anniversary of Porter’s passing and featured remarks by principal Briana Kates; teachers Dalena Burry, Olive Anderson and Anne Marie Westervelt; students Kira Morales and Parker Mack; and Marlene Westbrook, Porter’s mom.
Phillies ball girls Emily Cahill and Dolores Bowers attended, as Porter – whose brother Alan is a Major League Baseball umpire – was a big fan of the team. Tables were decorated with “The Fightins – Red October” rally towels that were waving later that night as the Phillies beat the Dodgers.
Porter’s parents, Marlene and Alan, cut the ribbon for the mini library, filled with one of their daughter’s favorite things – books.
Kates said Porter – who was a K-8 substitute teacher and a long-term sub for a teacher on maternity leave – “meant so much to so many.” She was more than an educator, Kates said, adding that she valued students, taught thoughtful lessons, had kind words for others in the hallways and displayed an “unwavering positivity.”
“Miss Porter’s legacy will live with us every single day,” she said. “Her spirit continues to guide us.”
Kira described Porter as “the best substitute teacher I ever had,” recalling how she taught the class a catchy jingle to learn that 8 times 8 equals 64.
“I love you Miss Porter and I always will,” Kira said.
Parker recalled Porter’s smile, and said a piece of her heart was shattered when she learned of the teacher’s passing.
“She was so nice to the whole class,” Parker said. “I sure did learn a lot from Miss Porter.”
Westbrook, Porter’s mom, was touched by everyone’s comments, particularly those by Kira and Parker. She said her daughter found her niche at Tacony Academy and believed each child had potential, recalling her saying, “They’re all so smart.” ••
