NEWS FROM THE PANTHER DEN
WEEK 16 EDITION
WEEK 16 REFLECTION
This is the third part of a three series reflection on "Seasons in December." Week 14 I reflected on "The Season of Gratitude and Week 15 was "The Season of Joy."
As we prepare to close the chapter on 2024, I find myself reflecting on the many experiences that have shaped our PTHS community this year. This has been a year of growth, resilience, and accomplishment—each moment building upon the next to create a narrative of hope and possibility for the future.
Hope is an essential element of our school’s spirit. It is what fuels our students to strive for their best, even when the path is challenging. It drives our teachers to innovate and inspire, reaching each student where they are and guiding them toward their potential. It is what binds us together as a community, reminding us that we are stronger together and that our shared dreams for our students’ futures are worth every effort.
As I look back, I am reminded of the countless moments of excellence that have marked this year. From adjusting to the start of the school which included a new start time and new schedule, the dedication of our Alumni Veterans Wall, the success of our athletic and marching band programs to this week's Holiday Concert, Gym Dedication and AP Government project, to the daily quiet triumphs in the classroom where curiosity and determination met to achieve something remarkable, every success has been a testament to the power of hope for a brighter tomorrow. Each week's pictures in the newsletters told a story about a season of hope.
With a season of hope also comes the responsibility of renewal. The closing of one year offers an opportunity to reflect on what we have learned, acknowledge where we can grow, and set new goals for the road ahead. As we move into 2025, I encourage all of us—students, teachers, families, and the Golden Panther community—to carry forward the lessons of this year. Let us continue to champion the values of perseverance, respect, integrity, determination and excellence that define our Golden Panther community.
Thank you for being part of our journey to adapt, evolve and excel this year. Your dedication and support make all the difference. It is a pleasure to walk alongside you as we educate our future. While we still have one more half day to go, I wish each of you a restful and joyous holiday season filled with gratitude, joy and hope. May 2025 bring new opportunities and continued success for the Golden Panthers! #nocknation
Enjoy the holiday carol below from the PTHS Concert Band as they kicked off the Winter Concert!
TWEET/INSTAGRAM OF THE WEEK
PTHS GYM DEDICATION
It was a beautiful ceremony on Thursday night (view below) prior to the Varsity Basketball game as the Main Gym was dedicated in honor of teacher, coach, administrator and advocate for equality in sports, Ruth Kellett. Students, players and colleagues of the past came out to share stories and memories of a wonderful educator and even better person. You can read more about Ruth in the article below that was printed in the Daily Record. Thank you to Russ Mowry, Class of 1962 for making the beautiful sign.
DAILY RECORD ARTICLE ON THE PTHS GYM DEDICATION
Please check out the Daily Record article on Ruth Kellett and the PTHS Gym Dedication. It is an outstanding tribute to an amazing educator.
CLASS MEETINGS FOR STUDENT SCHEDULING
The PTHS Administration will be meeting with students in Grades 9-11 on Wednesday, January 8th to discuss the scheduling process for the 2025-2026 school year. Meetings will take place at the following times on a Day 2.
Grade 10: Block 3 (10:05 am)
Grade 11: Block 4 (11:50am)
Grade 9: Block 6 and Panther Period (2:15 pm)
2025-2026 PROGRAM OF STUDIES
The 2025-2026 Program of Studies is now available in an interactive website format. It continues to evolve but it is a place where you can find information regarding all courses and academic information related to PTHS.
DOOR DECORATING AT PTHS
PTHS HALL OF FAME NOMINATIONS
Interested in nominating someone for the PTHS Hall of Fame? Click on the graphic!
SECURITY UPDATE
During unit lunch, if you are not in your classroom, the door should be shut and locked.
FOR YOUR PLANNING PURPOSES
IMPORTANT DATES
December 23rd: Half Day (Day 3)
December 23rd: Honor Roll Breakfast. (Blocks 1 and 2)
December 24th - January 1st: Winter Break
December 27th and 28th: Blue and Gold Basketball Tournament at PTHS
January 2nd: School Reopens (Day 2)
January 4th: PTHS Cabaret 7:00 pm
January 9th: Parent University: College Admissions Panel
January 15th: Parent University: High School Scheduling
January 16th - 18th: PTHS Winter Play: DRACULA
January 24th: End of Marking Period 2
January 27th: Start of Marking Period 3
SCHEDULE RESOURCES
LUNCH SUPPORT BLOCKS AND PANTHER PERIOD INFORMATION
Lunch Support Blocks and Panther Periods will remain in place now that we are in the rotational schedule. Please see the link below for the schedules.
https://hs.pequannock.org/students/instructional-supportpanther-period
WEEK IN REVIEW
Winter Comp Cheer had their first competition this past Sunday and took 2nd place!
Lil' Penny is ready for the holidays!
The Marching Band was recognized for their state championship at Monday's Board of Ed Meeting
Congratlulations to Alex on his first chair Tuba honor for North Jersey Area Band!
Ms. Dooley was the keynote speaker for the Gold Party at the AP Gov Convention
Mr. Sutherland was the keynote speaker for the Blue Part at the AP Gov Convention
Mr. Hayzler gets his annual selfie with the Jazz Band before they take the stage
The Jazz Band opened up the Holiday Concert
The Nocktaves sing "Let It Snow"
The Concert Band plays to a full house
The Concert Choir sang selections from "Elf"
The alumni join "O Holy Night" for annual tradition to end the Winter Concert
The boys team started their season with a "W"
The student section was out in full force at the boys basketball game
Thank you to Mr. Tedesco for coming to speak with the STEM Academy students
Congratulations to the AP Government class on a job well done!
A packed house for the AP Government Debate
The Presidential candidates square off!
"SANTA, I KNOW HIM!!!"
Is Dr. Portas on the naughty list? I think not.
Faculty enjoying our Holiday Cookie bake off!!!
Happy Holidays from the Allied Health Department!
Some early morning math with Mrs. Hayzler
Reading by the window's light.....
Pequannock Township High School
Email: attendance@pequannock.org
Website: www.pequannock.org
Location: 85 Sunset Road, Pompton Plains, NJ, USA
Phone: (973) 616-6000