Two Principals Recognized for Outstanding Service

Story by Tracey Jackson

During a school assembly that fell days after his April birthday, the Pine Forge Academy (PFA) student body honored Principal H. Clifford Reynolds, III, who has moved on to pursue other ventures. Students sang “Happy Birthday” and shared personal testimonies of the love and appreciation they had for their principal, affectionately known as “PR.”

Students also shared stories of how Reynolds bought food for them or made store runs or simply shared words of encouragement when they needed it. Hayden Reynolds, valedictorian and president of the “Perspicacious” Class of 2024, shared stories about growing up with his dad as principal and parent.

Reynolds accepted the call to serve as principal at the beginning of the 2019–20 school year, and will forever be known as the principal who served during the COVID-19 pandemic. He fought to keep the school open, resulting in the largest student enrollment in the last 10 years. Under his leadership, the Student Success Center was developed, which focuses on guiding students in reaching their individual dreams through the dual-enrollment program that partners with several Seventh-day Adventist universities and colleges. The aviation program was also established and outfitted with high-tech flight simulators. The computer lab was upgraded with new desktop computers, and each teacher received a new laptop, an interactive whiteboard and a new computer desktop at their disposal. With the support of the Alumni Association, the Biology and Chemistry laboratories were renovated, in partnership with Adventist HealthCare. The Handy and Kimbrough halls have resurfaced basketball courts, new top-of-the-line workout and recreation equipment, and a new kitchen.

Reynolds thanks Marcellus T. Robinson, the former Allegheny East Conference (AEC) president; Lawrance Martin, AEC treasurer; Eldridge Edgecombe, former PFA business manager; and the AEC Executive Committee for the support in funding the newly renovated academy dormitories.

Reynolds also expressed extreme gratitude for the opportunities and friendships PFA has afforded his wife, Charlyce Reynolds (Wallington), his daughter, Cariss (’23), and his son, Hayden (’24).

The PFA family and church community also honored Kris Fielder, former interim principal from 2018–19, who is retiring after 38 years from serving the school in various roles, including the athletic director and history teacher. He accepted the call to serve as Handy Hall assistant dean in 1986, moving his wife, Demetria, and son, Kris Jr., from Detroit, Mich., to the Pennsylvania school.

It was standing room only as a host of alumni, former principals, faculty members, conference officials and church friends traveled to the Pine Forge church on PFA’s campus to surprise Fielder, who served as their dean, teacher, coach, vice principal, church elder, “surrogate” father, mentor and friend. Those who could not personally attend sent videos and text messages expressing their love and gratitude to the couple. With God’s help and leading, the Fielders put all four of their children through the Pine Forge Academy Elementary School and PFA.

The school’s yearbook, The Flame 2024, highlights dedications to both outstanding men for their contributions to the academy, as do the students, staff, faculty and community.