Pennsbury on Point is a weekly newsletter designed to keep the Pennsbury community up-to-date on district news, events, and information. The newsletter is emailed to families weekly and archived on the district's Public Relations webpage.

If you have any photos or story ideas you would like to see featured, please email the Public Relations Department at publicrelations@pennsburysd.org.

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Afton - June 11 at 1:30 p.m.

Edgewood - June 11 at 2:00 p.m.

Eleanor Roosevelt - June 11 at 2:15 p.m.

Fallsington - June 11 at 10:45 a.m.

Makefield - June 11 at 1:15 p.m.

Manor - June 11 at 2:10 p.m.

Oxford Valley - June 11 at 2:00 p.m.

Penn Valley - June 11 at 2:30 p.m.

Quarry Hill - June 11 at 2:15 p.m.

Walt Disney - June 11 at 2:30 p.m.

Charles Boehm - June 14 at 10:35 a.m.

Pennwood - June 14 at 10:30 a.m.

William Penn - June 14 at 10:30 a.m.

• Affordable Connectivity Program - Bringing Affordable Internet to Families
• Confidential Residency Reporting Tip Line
• District Emails Archive
• E-Flyers
• Employment Opportunities at Pennsbury School District
• Part-Time Jobs for Students
• Pennsbury End-of-the-Year Survey
• Pennsbury Parent Academy - Events & Recordings
• Pennsbury Sports Schedules
• PHS Project Updates
• Safe2Say - Anonymous Tip Line
• Special Education Advisory Council (SEPAC) - Events and Info

• Please complete our annual Pennsbury End-of-the-Year Survey (takes less than 5 minutes).
• Please see the district activity calendar for a list of all of the end-of-the-year activities taking place in our schools.
• 6/12 & 6/13 are half days for Grades K-8 (Middle Schools dismiss at 10:45 a.m. Elementary Schools dismiss at 11:50 a.m.)
• The last day of school is June 14. (High School dismisses at 9:45 a.m., Middle School dismiss at 10:45 a.m., Elementary Schools dismiss at 11:50 a.m.)
• The school calendar for next year (24-25) has been posted.
• Have a safe and enjoyable remainder of the school year!

Pennsbury High School Commencement ceremony returns to the newly renovated Falcon Field this year. Seven-hundred and nineteen seniors are set to graduate from Pennsbury High School on Tuesday, June 11, 2024. Due to construction at Falcon Field, last year’s ceremony was held at the Cure Insurance Arena in Trenton, New Jersey.

The Class of 2024 was awarded a minimum of 67 different scholarships, totaling $898,356.00. (Scholarship information is self-reported by students and may not be complete.) Post-secondary plans for the graduates include commitments to the United States Military, trade schools including Automotive Training Center, Bucks County School of Beauty Culture, and Pennco Tech, and two and four-year colleges and universities including American University, Brown University, Bucknell University, Fordham University, Florida State University, New York University, Princeton University, and more.

Commencement speakers include Dr. Joanna Steere, President of the Pennsbury School Board of Directors; Dr. Thomas Smith, Pennsbury Superintendent of Schools; Reginald Meadows, Pennsbury High School Campus Principal. Student speakers are PHS Class of 2024 Top Scholars, Sriya Amineni, Daniel Kim, and Claire MacElroy.

Members of the Pennsbury High School Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Mark Capriotti, will perform Pomp and Circumstance. Members of the Pennsbury Chamber Choir, under the direction of Lindsey Strauss, will perform the Star-Spangled Banner and Pennsbury Alama Mater

On Saturday, June 1, 2024, Pennsbury High School once again lived up to its renowned reputation as the Best Prom in America. This year's theme, "Enchanted Environments," transformed the high school into a magical wonderland. The evening featured a special performance by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield! Congratulations to our 2024 Prom Royals, James and Emi!

Before the prom, the public enjoyed a walkthrough to marvel at the intricate decorations that brought the enchanting theme to life. A heartfelt thank you goes out to every prom committee member, parent, sponsor, and volunteer for their tireless efforts in making this event possible!

Later, the community gathered for the prom parade, where students made their grand entrances on intricate floats, classic cars, firetrucks, and more. Dressed in stunning gowns and suits, the students walked the red carpet, ready for a night they will never forget.

Seniors who were unable to attend the Senior Picnic and students in grades 9 - 11 can pick up their yearbooks at the PHS West Lobby during the following days and times:

• June 10 before school
• June 11 after school
• June 12 after finals
• June 13 after finals
• June 14 all day

Congratulations to all of our Pennsbury Top Scholars for the 2023-2024 school year!

Each year, the counselors at Pennsbury High School diligently monitor student progress across all grade levels. Based on midyear GPA calculations, the Class of 2024 features 20 exceptional students who achieved straight A’s in all four core academic subjects—English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies—at Honors or Advanced Placement levels throughout their 9th to 12th-grade years.

Click here for more information about each of our Top Scholars, including their high school activities, clubs, honors, and plans for the future!

At a special meeting of the Pennsbury School District Board of Directors, Donna Petrecco was appointed as the new Region 2 Director. Petrecco succeeds Jim Prokopiak, who resigned in May. Once his resignation was accepted, the remaining members of the school board were required under state law to fill the vacant seat by majority vote within 30 days. Petrecco will hold the position until December 1, 2025.

Prokopiak won the 140th Legislative District seat in a special election last February after it was vacated by Representative John Galloway, who was elected to serve as a district judge. He was sworn in as the state representative on March 19. Under state law, Prokopiak was able to continue serving in both roles.

Donna Petrecco, a lifelong resident of Lower Bucks County, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to educational excellence to her new role.

"We are pleased to welcome Donna Petrecco to the Pennsbury School Board," said Dr. Joanna Steere, President of the Pennsbury School Board. "Her diverse experience and passion for education make her a valuable asset to our district. We look forward to her contributions and the positive impact she will have on our schools and community."

Petrecco has held several board positions and leadership roles within the community, including the Bucks County Housing Authority, Children’s House of Bucks County, the Falls Township Historic Preservation Commission, the Falls Township Democratic Party, and the Fallsington Library. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from St. Joseph’s University and is a licensed real estate agent in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Petrecco expressed her enthusiasm about her new role: "My commitment to education is deeply rooted in both personal and professional experiences. As a parent of two children, one currently enrolled in Pennsbury High School and one who has graduated, I have a firsthand understanding of the needs and challenges faced by students, teachers, and parents within our district. This perspective drives my passion for fostering an inclusive, supportive, and high- achieving educational environment for all students."

The Pennsbury School District is confident that Petrecco’s role on the school board will help it continue its mission of preparing all students to become creative, ethical, and critical thinkers for lifelong success in a global society.

Field Day is a cherished tradition in Pennsbury, one that creates memories that will be treasured for years to come. Students in grades kindergarten through 8th headed outside over the last two weeks, divided into two fierce teams, the Orange and the Black, united through friendly competition and team spirit.

Field Day in Pennsbury School District is not just about athletic prowess; it is an opportunity for students to cultivate essential values like sportsmanship, resilience, and collaboration. Thanks to all of our Pennsbury parents and guardians who volunteered their time to make Field Day a success!

On Thursday, June 6, our amazing seniors came together after school for a memorable Senior Picnic! It was a fantastic afternoon filled with laughter, and friends.

Seniors had the chance to pick up their yearbooks, capturing all those precious high school memories forever. A delicious cookout, courtesy of the Nutrition Group, provided the perfect backdrop for everyone to relax and enjoy some tasty treats.

In a heartfelt touch, some students recorded interviews for the Pennsbury Channel, sharing their final goodbyes to PHS and reflecting on their incredible journey.

Thank you to everyone who made this day special. Here's to the Class of 2024 – your future is bright, and we'll always be cheering you on!

An outdoor classroom is coming to Eleanor Roosevelt, all thanks to the amazing leadership of the school's PTO and its generous school community. In just over 20 days, the students raised over $31,000 for the initiative by hosting lemonade stands, selling homemade bracelets, and donations from supportive family members and friends. Students, staff, PTO members, and families celebrated this amazing accomplishment with a school-wide Olympic-themed Fun Run on Wednesday, June 5.

The $31,000 will be combined with $27,000 in PTO funds collected during the 2022-2023 school year through multiple fundraisers and a generous $5,000 grant from the Albert Bader Foundation.

Throughout the fundraiser, the PTO encouraged set goals for each grade level. Each time they reached $1,000 in donations, the grade received an Olympic ring, with a goal to collect all five rings.

"When I would go into school every day and count the donations, I was really moved by the students who I know do not have money to spare but wanted to donate at least $1. This is why our school is so amazing. The kids care about the school just as much as the teachers and parents. I have always felt that ER is not a school but a community. We all help each other," said Megan Bogan, the Eleanor Roosevelt PTO co-president.

The outdoor classroom will be situated on a concrete pad connected to the blacktop recess area by a concrete walkway. This new space will feature eight eight-foot all-weather picnic tables and a sunshade, providing a perfect environment for learning and growth outside the traditional classroom walls.

This outdoor classroom will offer an alternative education space where students can learn, grow, and thrive in a natural setting. Research suggests many benefits to an outdoor classroom, including enhanced student engagement, improved academic performance, and increased well-being.

The Eleanor Roosevelt PTO would like to thank the school community for their generous support in making the outdoor classroom a reality and a special thanks to their sponsors, RG Dental Group of Richboro, Joe DeZutel State Farm, Focus Photography, Spire Fitness, Christine Mantwill RE/Max Properties, Yardley Eye Care, Fields Printwear, Michael's Jewelers, Ricky's Nails, CG Orthodontics, Milestone Behavioral Health, ImproveRite Home Remodeling, Big Oak Citgo, Desiree Hoelzle Photography, The Kim Rock Group, Retro Fitness, Tutor Doctor, and Mortgage America. Pending formal approval by the Pennsbury School Board of Directors, the outdoor classroom is expected to be installed this summer.

Pictured above: (Willow DiPrato - 7th grade student, Rebecca Kelly - Capital Health, Susan Brennan - Digital Literacy and Media Teacher, Dr. Travis Bloom - Charles Boehm principal)

Capital Health is delighted to announce that Charles Boehm Middle School has been honored with the prestigious title of Best Messaging in the "Teens off Screens" video contest. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the outstanding leadership of Digital Literacy and Media teacher Ms. Susan Brennan, who guided and inspired nearly 80 of her students who entered the contest.

The "Teens off Screens" video contest aimed to empower middle school students to raise awareness about the dangers of excessive screen time, and it received an overwhelming response from schools across the region. Among the numerous entries, the winning video, created by student Willow DiPrato, truly stood out for its exceptional messaging and creative approach. Willow was presented with a $2,000 prize which will benefit the students of Charles Boehm!

The video effectively conveyed the harmful effects of excessive screen time and provided valuable insights on striking a healthy balance between online and offline activities.

"We are thrilled to recognize Charles Boehm Middle School for their outstanding achievement in delivering a powerful message through their video," said Rebecca Kelly, spokesperson for Capital Health. "Mrs. Brennan's leadership and the student's dedication to raising awareness about the impact of excessive screen time is truly commendable. We are proud to showcase their work on our website."

The winning video (check it out below!), along with the other winning entries, will be featured on the Capital Health website, allowing viewers to appreciate the talent and creativity of these young students. Capital Health also plans to continue the "Teens off Screens" video contest in the upcoming school year, encouraging more schools to participate and raise awareness about the impact of excessive screen time on the younger generation.

For more information about the "Teens off Screens" video contest and to view all of the winning videos, please visit the Capital Health website.

After finishing the novel Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, Penn Valley Elementary School fifth-graders had the extraordinary opportunity to hear a Holocaust survivor testimony from Michèle Nemenoff Blask, the daughter of two survivors.

Ms. Blask, who works with the New Jersey Commission on Holocaust Education, shared her family photos and history with the students, offering a poignant and personal glimpse into the past. Her presentation emphasized themes of hope, survival, and kindness.

In her message to the students, Ms. Blask stressed the importance of empathy and compassion, reminding them to “always be kind to the person next to you.”

The Pennsbury High School Do Something Club, sponsored by PHS East librarian Lynn Wambach, is a student-run organization dedicated to making a positive impact on the school community. The club engages in various activities, including caring for the environment, encouraging fellow students with affirmations, and sending thank-you notes to animal shelter volunteers.

On May 24, organized by student Hannah Lowery, the Do Something Club teamed up with the National Honor Society and the Green Team for a campus clean-up. With prom week approaching and many guests expected to visit the PHS campus, the group focused on tidying up the prom parade route.

With 30 students participating, the volunteers collected several bags of trash, significantly improving the appearance of the area. A big thank you to these dedicated students for their school spirit and pride in keeping our campus clean and welcoming.

Pennsbury High School students got a glimpse into the world of forensics on Friday, June 7, when the Bucks County Mobile Crime Unit came to campus. Bucks County Detectives Dante Montella and Tim Campbell of the Bucks County District Attorney's Office, and Trevor Clark, a student at West Chester University, who is interning with the DA's office, talked about how they collect and preserve evidence at a crime scene.

The detectives displayed all of the equipment used to collect fingerprints, samples of blood and DNA, and other biological specimens. Students also learned about footprint casting and fiber collections and how detectives establish a timeline of events and photograph a crime scene. The detectives also talked a lot about digital footprints, sharing with the students that material "deleted" from one's mobile device is never truly deleted. All three men talked about their different career pathways and offered practical advice for those student interested in pursuing a career in criminal justice.

We are thrilled to announce that the Digital Literacy & Media teachers, formerly known as MSIT, have come together at Charles Boehm Middle School this week for an exhilarating training and curriculum development session. What's all the buzz about? Well, we are proud to introduce our new 8th-grade course, Podcasting, which will launch next year!

Get ready for an incredible 45-day collaborative experience that will give our 8th-graders the opportunity to unleash their creativity as they write, create, produce, edit, and even market their podcasts. Imagine the thrill of sharing your unique voice and ideas with the world!

During the training, Dr. Travis Bloom (seen in the pictures above), guided teachers through the remarkable features of the RØDECaster Duo. This cutting-edge audio solution is the ultimate companion for podcasters and content creators, ensuring that our students have access to top-notch equipment.

Leading the charge on this groundbreaking project is our very own CTE (Career & Technical Tducation) Supervisor, Corinne Lyczkowski. With her visionary leadership, she has brought together the Library Media Specialists and Literacy Teachers to embark on a true TEAM project. Together, they are dedicated to equipping our students with the essential 21st-century skills they need to thrive in our ever-evolving digital world.

We couldn't be more excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Podcasting is not just a course; it's an opportunity for our 8th-graders to explore their passions, develop their communication skills, and make their voices heard.

Brian and Shaun Kean, co-owners of the Pretzel Factory in Langhorne, PA, along with their sister, Melissa Luchansky, visited the 3rd-grade teachers and students at Penn Valley Elementary School this week. The students were treated to a fascinating lesson on how math and science are integral to the pretzel business, and they learned the meaning of the acronym HEAT: Hustle, Attitude, Effort, and Teamwork.

The Kean family shared that the Pretzel Factory in Langhorne has been open for over seventeen years, with a daily routine that starts at 4:30 a.m. Their presentation highlighted the importance of hard work, good planning, focus, and dedication. The students were inspired by the Kean family’s commitment and perseverance.

During the visit, one lucky student earned a Philadelphia Phanatic pretzel, while others received the Phillies “P” pretzel. A big thank you to the Pretzel Factory for sharing both their business insights and delicious pretzels with the Penn Valley third-graders!

The 6th-graders of Charles Boehm Middle School South in Fairless Hills recently expressed their love and appreciation for their "temporary" school through heartfelt tributes written in chalk. The students spent the school year at CB South as renovations were conducted at Charles Boehm Middle School in Yardley. As the school year comes to an end, these students wanted to leave a message to honor and recognize the place that has been their second home.

Their colorful and creative messages filled the school grounds, reflecting their gratitude and fond memories. The rising 7th-graders will return to the newly renovated Charles Boehm Middle School when school resumes in September.

Recently, the Elmwood Park Zoo's "Zoo-on-Wheels" program brought its exciting mobile exhibit to Walt Disney Elementary School, captivating pre-k, kindergarten, and first-grade students. This enriching visit was made possible by a grant from the Pennsbury Partners Program.

Students were fully engaged throughout the presentation, eagerly asking insightful questions and interacting with the exhibit. They had the unique opportunity to meet various creatures up close, learning fascinating facts about each one, including their adaptations and defense mechanisms that help them survive in the wild.

In addition to meeting the animals, students explored a table filled with intriguing items such as reptile skins and animal pelts. They were encouraged to touch and inquire about these artifacts, enhancing their hands-on learning experience.

It was a memorable and educational day for all involved. A big thank you to the Elmwood Park Zoo, a proud Pennsbury Partner, for providing this wonderful experience.

Click here to check out this week's News from the Nest, the Pennsbury Athletic Department's new newsletter! Stay up to date on all things Falcon Athletics!

On Monday, August 26, 2024, from 2:00 - 6:00 PM, Pennsbury School District will be hosting our annual Starting School “Write” open house at Village Park Elementary School. The school is located at 75 Unity Drive, Levittown. This is part of our "Returning to School with Equity in Mind" initiative. The goal is to help all children in our district have access to necessities in order to have a strong start to the school year.

All Pennsbury School District families who would benefit from assistance are invited to this event for FREE back-to-school haircuts by professional hairdressers and barbers, backpacks, lunch boxes, and other school supplies.

Community members can donate money or new school supplies to this great event to support our K-12 Pennsbury students. We believe that with the help of everyone in our community, we can show support for those most in need. Individuals interested in donating money should contact Keller Arnold from Pennsbury Kids at keller@pennsburykids.org.

Donation boxes will be located at each school through the end of the school year. Donations can also be delivered to Village Park Elementary School at 75 Unity Drive, Levittown. We will be collecting the following items:

Supplies needed: pencils pens, crayons, scissors, glue sticks, rulers, markers, pencil boxes, notebooks, loose leaf paper, highlighters, folders, binders, headphones/earbuds, TI84 Calculators, post-it notes, index cards (3X5)

We are also accepting new backpacks, drawstring bags, lunch boxes, reusable water bottles, new clothing, shoes (sneakers)

Food pantry items: canned goods and other non-perishable food items, feminine hygiene products, shampoo, conditioner, soap and deodorant

The Pennsbury Community Chorus Musical Theatre presents Beauty and the Beast, Jr.

July 22 - August 1, 2024.

Led by PHS Choral Director, Lindsey Strauss, this unique opportunity is open to rising 5th graders through rising 10th-graders.

Students will learn theatrical skills during the two-week camp, held at Pennsbury High School West, culminating in a performance showcasing those skills. For more information and to register, visit www.pennsburysings.org.

Join us for the 2024 Pennsbury Instrumental Music Summer Program, being held Monday evenings, July 1 - August 19, 2024! This program is open to all current 4th - 8th grade Pennsbury Band and Orchestra students. Students will participate in full ensemble rehearsals and sectionals! Attendance at all sessions is encouraged but not mandatory, so come play your instrument with us as much as you are able!

When: Monday evenings 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. - July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Aug 5, 12, 19

Culmination Concert: Monday, August 19 at 7:00 p.m. @ PHS East

Where: Currently in Grades 4 & 5 - William Penn Middle School (1524 Derbyshire Rd, Yardley, PA )

Currently in Grades 6, 7, & 8 - Pennwood Middle School (1523 Makefield Road, Yardley, PA)

Cost: $100 on or before 5/15/24; $125 after 5/15/24

To Register:

1. Complete the ONLINE REGISTRATION FORM here: https://rb.gy/hvs0hw

2. Send payment to:
   Pennsbury Instrumental Music Summer Program
   ℅ Adam Pfannenstiel
   Pennwood Middle School
   1523 Makefield Rd, Yardley, PA 19067

• Checks or Money Orders must be made payable to: PIMB
• Please put STUDENT NAME & “SMP” in the memo line
• PLEASE NO CASH!

Cancellations on or before June 23, 2024 will incur a $25 charge. No refunds after June 23, 2024.

Run by Pennsbury teachers Dana Hoffman and Aphrodite Crane. It will be taking place at Eleanor Roosevelt Elementary School this summer, but is open to all Pennsbury students in that age range.

Click here to register!

Join us for the 2024 Pennsbury Instrumental Music Summer Program, held Monday evenings from July 1 - August 19, 2024. This program is open to all current 4th - 8th grade Pennsbury Band and Orchestra students. Click here for more information and to register!

The Pennsbury Parent Academy is a series of educational programs and presentations offered to Pennsbury parents and guardians to support school success and continued home-school partnerships. The PPA program includes monthly, live in-person and/or virtual programming on a variety of topics to promote parent and guardian community engagement, such as:

• Mental Health & Wellness
• Supporting School Success
• Social Media & Internet Safety
• Diversity & Inclusion

Visit our website for recordings of past presentations.

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a Federal Communications Commission program that helps connect families and households struggling to afford internet service. This new benefit provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward broadband service for eligible households. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers.

Eligible households can enroll through a participating broadband provider or directly with the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) using an online or mail-in application. You can learn more about the benefit, including eligibility and enrollment information, by visiting www.fcc.gov/ACP, or by calling 877-384-2575.

How to Get Started:

1. Create a training account at PaTTAN: pattan.framwelder.com
2. Complete the 7 online courses: Bureau of Special Education Para Credential of Competency Entry Level Training Series and save your certificates.
3. Email paras@pennsburysd.org to set up an interview to complete the process.

Questions? Email us at paras@pennsburysd.org

Do you enjoy working with children? Do you like working close to home and earning a competitive salary? Then becoming a Pennsbury Bus Driver is the job for you!

We offer:

• A competitive salary
• Flexible hours
• Student-centered work environment
• Paid training for your CDL

Questions? Email transportation@pennsburysd.org

Click here to view Pennsbury High School's Student Job Board and find local area businesses with open positions. Some positions allow applicants as young as 14 years old.

Click here for information on how to obtain a work permit.

Click here to visit the Pennsbury School District's E-Flyers Page.

These flyers represent current or ongoing announcements of interest to Pennsbury students and their families that emanate from local community organizations, sports leagues, scouting groups, and other non-profits. Browse through our gallery!

To obtain approval for a flyer to be posted on the E-Flyers Page, please email your request to Macy Cellitti at mcellitti@pennsburysd.org.

PHS Key Club is cleaning pill bottles to be donated to developing Latin American countries. These pill bottles will be used to package medical supplies for those in need. Students have cleaned over 180 bottles and are looking to clean even more throughout the school year. If you are looking to declutter your medicine cabinet, please reach out to Vanessa Fry (vfry@pennsburysd.org) or Oksana Cheeseman (ocheeseman@pennsburysd.org) to donate!

Click the links below to view the current schedules for Pennsbury Athletics.

Weekly Sports Schedule

Current Team Schedules - Schedules are subject to change at any time. Check this page often for the latest updates!

Safe2Say Something is a youth violence prevention program run by the PA Office of Attorney General. Report a confidential tip to help prevent violence and tragedies.

Click here to submit an anonymous tip.

The Nutrition Group is now hiring! Positions include Food Service Workers, Cooks, and Kitchen Managers with rates from $15 - $17 per hour. The hours are Monday-Friday, school hours only. No nights, weekends, or holidays! Apply today by calling the Nutrition Group office at 215-949-6740 ext. 2, or click here and search for "Pennsbury"!

The Pennsbury School District is making a concerted effort to ensure that students who reside within our District boundaries are able to attend the school they are assigned to based on their home address. To help us, we have established a Confidential Residency Reporting Tip Line. If you believe someone is falsifying their student's address to attend the Pennsbury School District, please call or email:

residency@pennsburysd.org

(215) 428-4100 ext. 84777 (TIPSS)

Click here for more information.

Have a question about Pennsbury? Don't trust the rumors, ask Penny!

Send Penny an email at askpenny@pennsburysd.org.

tsmith@pennsburysd.org

215-428-4111

Email: publicrelations@pennsburysd.org

Website: www.pennsburysd.org
Location: 134 Yardley Avenue, Fallsington, PA 19058
Phone: 215-428-4100