This month, we are pleased to introduce you to The Schaub Family: Kristi, Rob, Kelsey and Robert. For Kristi and Rob, Broomall and the greater Marple Newtown community aren’t just where they live—they are woven into the fabric of who they are. From childhood classrooms and choir
rooms to band fields, scout meetings and church halls, the Schaubs’ story is one of deep roots, shared experiences and a lifelong commitment to giving back.
Kristi grew up in Broomall and today lives in the very same house she was raised in, alongside her mother, who taught in Marple for 38 years. When Kristi and Rob married young and began raising their family, moving back home made sense. Kristi’s mother lived alone, and the arrangement allowed the family to support one another while keeping strong ties to the neighborhood they love. “I grew up here,” Kristi said, “and it’s been incredibly meaningful to raise our kids in the same community that shaped me.”
Though Kristi and Rob briefly lived in Millersville while Kristi was attending college, Broomall always felt like home. Their return, initially born of circumstance, became what Kristi calls a “happy accident.” Plans to settle in Lancaster County fell through amid a competitive housing market, and instead of forcing a move elsewhere, the family leaned into what they already had: community, familiarity and a support system. “Seeing our kids go through many of the same schools and activities we did has been so special,” Kristi said. “Marple will always hold a place in our hearts.”
Kristi’s own educational journey reflects perseverance and passion. She attended Worrall Elementary and Paxon Hollow Middle School, where she immersed herself in choir, handbells, drama and color guard, early indicators of her love for the arts and youth engagement. At Marple Newtown High School, she continued with choir and drama while also spending two years at Folcroft Technical High School studying early childhood education.
After graduating in 2001, Kristi earned an associate degree in Early Childhood Education from Delaware County Community College, where she was named to the All-Pennsylvania Academic Team. A scholarship brought her to Millersville University, though she later put college on hold to focus on family life. Nearly two decades later, Kristi made the decision to return to school. In 2021, she enrolled at West Chester University, graduating in August 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, summa cum laude and a minor in psychology. “It wasn’t easy going back,” she admitted. “But it was important to me to show my kids that it’s never too late to finish what you start.”
Rob’s path also reflects a strong connection to Marple Newtown. A lifelong resident, he attended Culbertson Elementary and Marple Newtown High School, where he participated in choir and SADD. He later earned an associate degree in Electronic and Computer Technology from the Pennsylvania Institute of Technology in 2004.
Today, Rob works as a call center representative for Continental Credit Protection, where he finds satisfaction in helping customers improve their financial futures. Previously, he worked as a Tier 2 representative for Comcast Business Class Services, building skills he continues to use today. “I enjoy helping people who are trying to better themselves,” Rob said. “That’s what makes the work meaningful.”
Service is a defining thread in the Schaub family story. Kristi currently serves as Director of Youth and Families at Newtown Square Presbyterian Church, where she designs programs that help children and teens grow in confidence, faith and community. “I enjoy creating programs and experiences that help children and youth grow in confidence, faith and community,” she said. “It’s especially rewarding to see their progress over time.”
She also works as a nanny for local families, supporting parents and children from infancy through early childhood. “I enjoy helping parents raise their children from infancy by providing consistent care, guidance and encouragement,” she added. “Building relationships with families and watching children grow, develop and thrive is deeply rewarding.”
Her community involvement extends even further. For eight years she served as a Girl Scout leader and she’s currently the president of the Marple Newtown Band Parent Association, a role she has held after years of dedicated board service. Two years ago, she also started a local walking group that now includes about fourteen members who meet twice weekly for three-mile walks, combining wellness with connection.
Rob’s volunteer resume is equally impressive. He served as Scoutmaster of Troop 122 for seven years. Recently, Rob was asked to support the Boy Scouts of America on the district level, where he’ll serve as the Chair of the Camping Committee. He’s also volunteered with the Marple Newtown High School stage crew, helping to teach and guide students in set construction and special effects, and he assisted the marching band for multiple seasons. A former gymnast for more than eight years, Rob now channels his creativity into hobbies like woodworking, laser engraving, 3D printing, crocheting and cooking (just ask any of the band members and parents about his Mac and Cheese!). He also enjoys working alongside Kristi, supporting youth programming at their church.
Kristi and Rob met years ago in middle school choir, but it wasn’t until high school that their friendship turned into something more. They married on June 27, 2004, at Reformation Lutheran Church in Media, followed by a reception at the King’s Mills, Media. Their daughter Kelsey served as ring bearer and one of Kristi’s former students even sang “Build Me Up Buttercup” at the reception, a favorite classroom song that captured the joyful spirit of the day. Their honeymoon was close to home in the Poconos, and they began married life right in Broomall before heading briefly to Millersville for two years.
Today, their two children reflect the values they’ve worked so hard to instill. Kelsey Rachel, 22, is a bubbly and creative senior at Lycoming College studying biology and criminal justice. At an early age, Kelsey developed a passion for ice skating and skated competitively for 15 years. She earned her high school degree from PA Leadership Charter School, a cyber school that allowed her the freedom to travel to compete in ice dancing. During that
time, she also participated in choir, track and tennis through MNHS. Now a busy college student, she balances academics with an impressive list of activities, including choir, Greek life, Habitat for Humanity and the canoe team. Recently, she began working as a zookeeper at a reptile house where she previously interned and is pursuing an internship at a local coroner’s office. After college, Kelsey plans to pursue a Master’s in Forensics.
Robert Michael, 17, is a senior at Marple Newtown High School with a passion for music, math and science. An Eagle Scout, accomplished euphonium player and first-chair musician in PMEA District 12 Band, he is also preparing to take the stage in a lead role as Billy Flynn in the school’s production of Chicago. Active in band, drama, Model UN and multiple honor societies, Robert exemplifies dedication and quiet confidence. “What I love most about being in band and drama is seeing when all of our hard work comes together,” he said. “It’s very rewarding.” Robert’s future plans include going to college to pursue an engineering degree and hopefully work in prosthetics.
The Schaub household also includes what Kristi jokingly calls “a small zoo”: Bella the Bombay cat, Cora the corgi, Cerbie the Yorkie, and ferrets Benson and Beanie. Their home sits on a quiet street near a park. “What more can you ask for when raising kids and animals!” said Kristi.
Their family treasures traditions, especially annual trips to Lake Placid, their “happy place,” and celebrates new experiences, like Robert’s recent European music tour and Kelsey’s choir trip to Texas.
Kristi said they have a simple family philosophy: be present, spend time together and make memories. “We’re grateful to be part of such a supportive community,” she said. “In a busy world, slowing down and prioritizing time together is what builds strong connections.”
For the Schaub family, community isn’t just where life happens; it’s something you show up for, invest in and nurture every day. And in Marple Newtown, their presence has helped make it a little stronger.