

The Hatter Chatter
District Communications Newsletter

Message from Dr. Eveslage, Superintendent of Schools
Happy February! We have passed the midpoint of the school year, and there is no shortage of exciting things happening in the District. January brought us our first snowfall in over 700 days, which impacted some school schedules. We will be prepared for a virtual instruction day if another weather emergency closure is necessary in 2024.
While we strive to make the next day a great day for all of our students, we also are in the midst of several key planning items for the future of the school district and community. In February, we will be publicly presenting the exciting changes to the Keith Valley Middle School program and the tenets of the Comprehensive Plan 2024-2027. Both center students and value their interests and choices in providing a path to a rigorous and challenging core and elective program. We are looking forward to positively shaping the future of the district along with you.
Enjoy this February edition of The Hatter Chatter!
Scott Eveslage, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
The newsletter may be easier to view via the link: https://www.smore.com/1rtwc4
February Calendar Dates📆
School Calendar
February 16 (Friday) - Early Dismissal for Students
February 19 (Monday) - District Closed (President's Day)
Click HERE to Access the Updated 2023-2024 District Calendar
Board Meetings
February 5 (Monday) - School Board Work Session- 7:00 pm (HHHS Auditorium)
February 13 (Tuesday) - Curriculum Committee- 3:00 pm (via Zoom)
February 22 (Thursday) - Facilities/Finance Committee Meeting - 7:00 pm (Administration Building)
February 26 (Monday) - School Board Legislative Action Meeting - 7:00 pm (HHHS Auditorium)
** The 2024-25 School Calendar will be approved and publicly available on February 26, 2024 **
Hatboro-Horsham Celebrates Black History Month
2024 Theme - African Americans and the Arts
In the Hatboro-Horsham School District, we will celebrate Black History Month with a series of events highlighting the many rich contributions of African Americans to our shared history and culture. While Black History is inseparable from American History and embedded in curriculum year-long, each of our schools will actively embrace and incorporate diverse perspectives, achievements, and stories throughout February. To culminate this month-long celebration, we invite everyone to save the date for an unforgettable Black History Month concert at Hatboro-Horsham High School on February 21 at 6:30 PM (click for additional information). This concert promises to be a remarkable showcase of talent and a celebration of the diversity that makes our community so vibrant. Join us as we come together to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future. Let us unite in fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels seen, heard, and empowered.
About Black History Month: About Black History Month – ASALH – The Founders of Black History Month
Celebrating African Americans and the Arts 2024 Black History Theme African Americans and the Arts (asalh.org)
Visit the HHSD website for more resources https://www.hatboro-horsham.org/Page/1925
Meet Our New Hatters on Staff✏️
Mr. Hogan: 8th Grade Science- Keith Valley
Mrs. Boxman: English Language Development- High School
Get to Know Officer Novak- School Resource Officer 🚔
In every high school, there are unsung heroes who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of students. One such hero in our community is Officer Mary Novak, the High School Resource Officer at Hatboro-Horsham High School.
For Officer Novak, a career in law enforcement was not just a choice but a family legacy. Growing up with a father who served as a police officer and a younger brother who now holds the rank of lieutenant, Officer Novak was inspired to follow in their footsteps. Her journey into the world of law enforcement began 27 years ago, dedicating 21 of those years to the Philadelphia Police Department.
During her tenure with the Philadelphia Police Department, Officer Novak specialized in driving under the influence (DUI) cases. Her expertise led her to teach DUI enforcement classes across the state. Additionally, she collaborates with nurses and supports the Drivers Education program within the school district.
Officer Novak's commitment to serving the community brought her to the Hatboro-Horsham School District five years ago. As the High School Resource Officer, she fosters a safe and secure student environment. What she finds most rewarding about her position is the opportunity to work with kids, guiding them, molding their character, and helping them make wise decisions.
Officer Novak believes her role is a chance to positively influence young minds. She believes in the power of guidance and aims to mold students into responsible individuals. The satisfaction she derives from her job comes from being surrounded by a community of good people who share her dedication to the well-being of students.
Beyond her commitment to law enforcement, Officer Novak has a deep love for animals. If she were not in law enforcement, she envisions herself working with them. On weekends, you can find her spending time at the farm, indulging in her passion for the care and well-being of animals.
Officer Novak is not just a dedicated law enforcement professional but also a loving mother and a voracious reader. She enjoys spending quality time with her 10th-grade daughter, engaging in activities that strengthen their bond. Her favorite subject during high school was history, reflecting her interest in understanding the past.
Officer Novak extends her commitment beyond law enforcement by actively participating in educational initiatives. She has served as a 10th-grade health speaker, addressing topics related to drugs, laws, and their consequences. She aims to educate and empower students to make informed decisions through these engagements.
We are incredibly fortunate to have Officer Novak as a part of our HHSD family.
HHEF Sponsored Artist-in-Residence Adds Beauty and Art to HHHS 🎨
In a celebration of art and culture, HHEF (Hatboro-Horsham Educational Foundation) proudly sponsors a Professional-in-Residence program, providing students with the opportunity to collaborate with accomplished professionals. This year, High School art teacher Leah Ellert spearheaded a proposal that brought forth an extraordinary collaboration with professional muralist Calo Rosa.
Mrs. Ellert, an enthusiastic advocate for arts education, recognized the potential of exposing her advanced art students to the world of professional mural artistry. Her vision materialized with the support of HHEF, leading to the collaboration with the talented Calo Rosa. The result? A stunning mural coming to life in the B wing of the high school, captivating the attention and admiration of students, faculty, and visitors alike.
Calo Rosa, originally from San Salvador and currently residing and working in Philadelphia, brings a unique perspective to his art. Hailing from a family of artists involved in various mediums such as graphic design, Brazilian percussion, oil painting, and cake-making, Rosa's diverse background laid the foundation for his artistic journey. He holds a degree in Fine and Visual Arts from the Centro Nacional de Artes (CENAR) and a degree in graphic design from Don Bosco University.
This experience has allowed the National Art Honor Society Students, under the guidance of Mrs. Ellert and Mr. Zellman, to learn mural design, techniques, and so much more.
Keith Valley Middle School Unite for MLK Sock Roll Challenge 🧦
In a beautiful display of generosity, Keith Valley Middle School recently orchestrated a school-wide donation drive that left the entire community thankful and proud. Spearheaded by the diligent members of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), the initiative aimed to collect essential items for those in need, resulting in an overwhelming response that underscored the true spirit of unity and compassion.
The NJHS students, driven by a shared commitment to making a positive impact, focused their efforts on gathering granola bars, sandwich crackers, and crew socks. However, their dedication went beyond mere collection, as they meticulously rolled the socks with care and adorned them with heartfelt messages on tags. This thoughtful touch transformed the donation drive into a powerful act of kindness, infusing each item with a sense of warmth and goodwill.
The culmination of their efforts aligns seamlessly with The Giving Tree's MLK Sock Roll Challenge, a nationwide initiative encouraging communities to provide essential items to those experiencing homelessness. The carefully rolled socks, now brimming with love and good wishes, are poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need them most.
The school community couldn't be prouder of the students for embodying the principles of giving and compassion. By participating in The Giving Tree's challenge, Keith Valley Middle School not only contributes to a noble cause but also instills in its students the values of empathy and social responsibility. As these heartfelt donations are prepared for distribution, they serve as a testament to the positive impact that collective efforts can have on fostering a caring and supportive community.
Intentionality in Mrs. Brzezinski's 4th Grade Class 📝
Over the past two weeks at Crooked Billet, Mrs. Brzezinski's 4th grade ELA class has embarked on a transformative journey through a writing project titled "What's Your Word? – The My Intent Project." The brainchild of Chris Pan in California, this initiative aims to unearth the purpose and passion within each individual, believing that a single word has the power to change a day, a life, and even the world. As Mrs. Brzezinski reflects on her third year leading students in "The My Intent Project," she recognizes the pressing need for positivity and hope, particularly after the challenges posed by the pandemic.
The project began with an exploration of intentions, distinguishing them from goals. The class collectively connected that intentions exist in the present moment, serving as a focal point that redirects, grounds, and prompts reflection on what truly matters. Intentions become a lived experience, influencing our relationships with ourselves and others. As students delved deeper into the concept, they were tasked with selecting their word of intention.
The word selection process proved to be a profound journey for the class. Students were eager to change their words as their understanding of intentions deepened. The gravity of the self-realization experienced by many students during this process was indescribable. Through personal writing, students revealed the motivations behind their word choices, ranging from personal life experiences to the need for daily reminders. The intention words varied widely and included powerful concepts such as family, warrior, believe, grateful, and perspective.
The final stage of the project urged students to contemplate the next steps. After choosing their word of intention, they were challenged to consider how they would incorporate this intention into their daily lives consistently. Mrs. Brzezinski encouraged the children to engage in higher-level thinking, leading to profound conversations and a deep sense of vulnerability as students shared their truths with their fourth-grade peers.
Students proudly published their final drafts of the "My Intention" writing piece at the culmination of the two weeks. In a heartwarming celebration, the class came together as a family. Each student received a bracelet with their chosen word hammered into it—a tangible reminder of their strength through intention. Mrs. Brzezinski hopes that as the children glance at their bracelets daily, they will be inspired to recognize the power of intention in shaping their thoughts and actions. These bracelets, crafted with love, represent a lasting connection to the transformative journey undertaken by Mrs. Brzezinski's class.
To explore more about The My Intent Project and its founder, Chris Pan, along with inspirational videos that kick-started the project, visit https://www.myintent.org/.
Anthony Ramos-Calderon Shines at 2024 PMEA District 11 Chorus Festival 🎤
To celebrate musical talent and dedication, we congratulate junior Anthony Ramos-Calderon for proudly representing HHHS at the 2024 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 11 Chorus Festival. This prestigious event brought together over 160 exceptional high school singers from Montgomery and Bucks counties, creating a musical symphony of talent that resonated over three days at Bensalem High School from January 24 to 26, 2024.
Bensalem High School served as the backdrop for this extraordinary festival, hosting a diverse array of voices under the expert guidance of Dr. Dustin S. Cates, Assistant Professor of Music Education at Temple University’s Boyer College of Music & Dance. Dr. Cates, a seasoned conductor and educator, lent his expertise as the festival's guest conductor, adding a touch of musical brilliance to the proceedings.
Over three days, Anthony and his fellow participants immersed themselves in a musical journey featuring eight professional-level compositions. The repertoire spanned a broad spectrum of musical genres, ranging from the classical compositions of the 1700s to the modern choral masterpieces of today. The festival aimed not only to showcase the individual talents of the performers but also to create a collective harmonious experience for both participants and the audience.
Anthony shared his enthusiasm for the festival in an interview, describing it as a transformative experience. "It was a great experience. I sang for three days straight; it was the best music, choir, and performing experience of my life!" His passion and dedication to his craft were evident in every note he sang, contributing to the overall success and vibrancy of the festival.
Participation in events like the PMEA District 11 Chorus Festival goes beyond showcasing musical talents. It provides young artists like Anthony a platform to collaborate with peers, learn from esteemed professionals, and hone their skills in a challenging yet supportive environment. The memories and lessons gained from such experiences become integral to their artistic journey and contribute to their growth as musicians.
Heartwarming Reunion at Hallowell as Military Parent Surprises Children ❤️
At Hallowell Elementary, emotions ran high as Tech Sergeant Unger, who was deployed overseas, orchestrated a heartwarming surprise for his children, Hallowell students Evelyn and Jackson. The joyous reunion unfolded during a touching assembly that left the entire school community in tears of happiness.
The surprise event was carefully coordinated by the school and Unger's family, marking a moment of pure celebration and love. As the assembly progressed, the anticipation in the room was palpable, building a sense of excitement that hung in the air. Little did Evelyn and Jackson know that their lives were about to be touched by a profound moment of familial connection.
The pivotal moment arrived when Tech Sergeant Unger, dressed in his military uniform, stepped onto the stage. The sheer surprise and disbelief on his children's faces quickly turned into tears of joy as they rushed into their father's open arms. The warmth of their embrace radiated through the room, creating an atmosphere filled with overwhelming emotion.
The reunion was not just a personal moment for the Unger family but became a shared experience for the entire school community. The genuine happiness and love displayed during this unexpected reunion left a lasting impact on the hearts of those present, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made by military families and the power of love to overcome distance.
Hatboro-Horsham School Board Recognition 🥳
In the month of January, we commemorated School Board Recognition Month. We take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated members of the Hatboro-Horsham School Board of Directors. Their unwavering commitment to molding a more promising future for our students and leaving a lasting impact on our community is truly commendable. We deeply value the tireless efforts and countless hours they invest, and we feel immensely fortunate to be served by such a devoted School Board.
Hatboro-Horsham School Board Members:
2023-2024
Jennifer Wilson, President
David P. Brown, Vice President
Theresa E. Brown, Treasurer
Tara Conner-Hallston
Susan E. Hunsinger-Hoff
Maggie A. Kistner
Denise J. Schultz
Erin B. Stroup
Erin K. Whalen
Athletic Accolades 🏅
Suburban One Athlete of the Week - Chris Staub
Hatboro-Horsham senior Chris "Stauby" Staub is a standout wrestler and student-athlete with a passion for carpentry. Raised in a blue-collar family, Staub emphasizes the value of hard work and dedication in both wrestling and carpentry, finding satisfaction in seeing the finished product of his efforts. He is a three-year captain of the wrestling team, recognized for his exceptional leadership qualities and work ethic.
Staub's achievements include winning the Wetzel Classic as a senior, a significant accomplishment for the 145-pound wrestler. Despite facing challenges such as the cancellation of his freshman season due to COVID-19, he remains focused on reaching his goals, including becoming a 100-match winner and aiming for success at regionals and states.
Beyond his athletic pursuits, Staub is a lover of various music genres and a self-proclaimed "killer" at Karaoke. He is considering future plans that involve serving in the military, particularly in elite units like the Navy Seals or Army Rangers. Alternatively, he is exploring opportunities to continue wrestling at the collegiate level.
Expressing gratitude to his parents and coach, Staub acknowledges the support that has fueled his passion for wrestling. He actively gives back to the sport by coaching and refereeing at the youth club where he started. Despite the inevitable graduation, Coach Mongillo envisions Staub returning to contribute as a coach or volunteer, recognizing his potential impact on the future of wrestling.
Get to know more about Chris by clicking the link below:
https://suburbanonesports.com/featured-athletes/male/chris-staub-00110673
Faces of H-H🎩
First Semester High School Students of the Month
Going on a Learning Walk
Be Different, Be Brave, Be You
Teaching the Class
Working in the Paes Lab
Helping 1st Graders
February Inclusivity Calendar and Information🗓️
As a school district, we truly believe that ALL ARE WELCOME HERE and are constantly looking for opportunities to be more inclusive, build awareness, and develop our cultural competence to be more equitable in supporting and serving our students, staff, and community. This monthly inclusive newsletter will serve as a resource for our staff and families to learn more about the diverse cultures and members of our community.
February Breakfast and Lunch Menus 🥪
Elementary Breakfast
Elementary Lunch
KV Breakfast
KV Lunch
High School Breakfast
High School Lunch
Keith Valley Middle School Construction Images🚧
Interior of the Maker Space
Aerial View of Pool and Gymnasium
Aerial View of Commons and Auxiliary Gymnasium
February's Hat Chat Minute 📽️
Weather Emergency Information❄️
With winter here, we are prepared for how we will respond in the event of a school closure due to a weather emergency. Early morning weather announcements are sent via the website, social media, the district app, and phone calls. In the event of a school closure, the initial two weather emergency days in the academic calendar will follow the traditional "snow-day" approach, with schools being closed and no instruction occurring (already used this school year). However, beginning with the third weather emergency day (if needed), and for subsequent occurrences, we will implement a remote instructional model for the day. The remote instructional schedules are below for each academic level, featuring synchronous instruction—wherein the teaching will be conducted live with the guidance of the teacher.
High School Remote Learning Schedule (Synchronous)
Middle School Remote Learning Schedule (Synchronous)
Elementary Remote Learning Schedule (Synchronous)
The Hatboro-Horsham Educational Foundation is a nonprofit organization created to encourage excellence and to enhance and enrich educational opportunities offered to the students of the Hatboro-Horsham School District.
Mark your calendars and save the date for a night of excitement and philanthropy on March 15, 2024! The Hatters Hold 'Em event returns for its 6th edition, promising a lively evening filled with casino games and fantastic prizes. Hosted by the HHEF (Hatboro-Horsham Education Foundation) in collaboration with the Borough of Hatboro and Horsham Township, this community-driven event aims to support extraordinary learning experiences for Hatboro-Horsham students. Join us for a memorable night of mingling with local officials, Hatboro-Horsham educators, and celebrity dealers from our community and the Hatboro-Horsham School District. Your winnings at the casino tables will not only add to the excitement but also earn you raffle tickets for a chance to win fabulous prizes. Be a part of this fun-filled evening that brings the community together for a great cause. We hope to see you there!
Save the Date for Hatters Hold Em
Family Resources Page 📄
Contact Information
Website: https://www.hatboro-horsham.org/
Location: 229 Meetinghouse Road, Horsham, Pa 19044
Phone: 215-420-5000
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HHSDK12/
Twitter: @HH_Schools