(Monaca, Pa.)  Nearly 2,000 educators from across Beaver County gathered Monday morning at the Community College of Beaver County Dome for the inaugural Beaver County EdFest, a countywide celebration honoring educators and strengthening partnerships among local schools, higher education, and community organizations.

Beaver County Radio carried live coverage of EdFest starting with Beaver County Radio’s Frank Sparks speaking with some of the people who put EdFest together from 7:30 AM until the program started at 8:30 AM.  Frank also spoke with keynote speaker Jimmy Casas about him coming to Beaver County for this all new event meant to him to be picked as the keynote speaker.

The first-of-its-kind event featured a pep-rally atmosphere, breakfast, and music from the Blackhawk Marching Band as student volunteers from districts across the county welcomed teachers outside CCBC’s Golden Dome. Inside, the morning program celebrated collaboration, inspiration, and the collective commitment to student success.

“We must think bigger and bolder,” ​said Dr. Roger Davis, president of CCBC said. “Together, we can create a stronger, more connected future for every student.”

Dr. Davis emphasized the importance of collaboration through various non-profit partnerships like the Beaver County Educational Trust (BCET). He encouraged educators to pursue opportunities like BCET’s Story Walks Grant, which supports literacy, art, and music programs in schools.

Nationally recognized educator, author, and leadership coach Jimmy Casas delivered the keynote address which was broadcast live on Beaver County Radio. His inspiring words came from his books Culturize, Recalibrate, and Words on the Wall. Casas, who has spent more than 30 years in education—including 22 years as a school leader and 14 years as Principal of Bettendorf High School, named among the nation’s best by Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report—shared a message centered on culture, reflection, and purpose.

“Every time we bring people together, it’s an opportunity to build community,” Casas said. “When we reflect on our work and live the words on the wall, we create schools where both students and staff feel valued and supported.”

The event was made possible through the generosity of community partners and sponsors, including The Wright Promise, PUSH Beaver County, Community College of Beaver County, Frye Transportation, McCarter Coach and Tour, Undivided in Christ Ministry, Grable Foundation, Beaver County Chamber of Commerce, Beaver County Radio, ABC Transit and Lincoln Learning.

“The first ever Beaver County EdFest represents a unique collaboration between our community partners and educators across Beaver County,” said Michelle McKinley, Director of Curriculum at the Beaver Valley Intermediate Unit (BVIU).

Beaver County EdFest 2025 marked a historic moment of unity and pride, celebrating the educators who inspire, innovate, and shape the future of Beaver County.

Beaver County Radio’s Live Broadcast from EdFest 2025 was brought to you by the Beaver County Chamber of Commerce.

Check out the photos of EdFest 2025 below: