DTSD DIGEST

As we enter November, a month dedicated to gratitude and reflection, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the accomplishments and milestones achieved by our students, staff, and families so far this school year. With the first secondary quarter behind us and the first trimester approaching its close, we are continually inspired by everyone’s hard work and dedication. This season also invites us to pause and practice gratitude within our families. Simple acts of kindness, words of appreciation, and time spent together are powerful ways to strengthen our bonds and enrich our community. With that spirit, we want to express how grateful we are for the amazing students, staff, and families who make Derry Township School District a wonderful place to learn and grow. We look forward to continuing our journey together into the second quarter and trimester.

November 11 - 15 - National School Psychology Week

November 20 - Recess & Cafeteria Aides Day

October 31 - End of 1st Quarter (Secondary)

November 22 - End of 1st Trimester (Elementary)

November 22 - 6th Grade Conferences, No School for 6th Grade Students

November 22 - 24 - HHS Fall Play, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

November 25-26 - Elementary Conferences, No School for K-5

November 27-29 - Thanksgiving Recess, No School

December 2 - 2-Hour Late Start

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The district has been approved for five flexible instructional days (FID) for the 2024-2025 school year. This means we are able to provide instruction virtually during the event of a full snow day. However, after hearing feedback from our families and throughout the community, we know there is an appreciation for having a “true snow day.” Therefore, on the first full-day designated as a snow day (where we will not be running a delayed schedule), we will close school and allow our students to have the day off. The remaining 5 snow days will be FID days, if needed. Families will be notified by text, email, and phone call in the event of a schedule change due to weather. Additionally, the district will post the information on the front page of the website, social media accounts, and on local news stations.

We have dedicated an area of our website that contains more information about communication expectations during a weather related schedule change.

We have two exciting sample days coming up: November 1 at the Middle School and November 8 at the ECC and Elementary Schools. On these days, students will have the opportunity to try Impossible Foods’ plant-based burgers and chicken nuggets!

In addition to these sample days, we’re thrilled to announce new plant-based options debuting on our menu starting December 2. For a limited time and while supplies last, students can enjoy a daily plant-based entrée featuring a hummus cup or bean dip cup paired with Stacy's whole-grain pita chips or nacho chips. To complete their meal, students can add up to two fruit selections, along with vegetables and their choice of milk. We are excited to introduce Impossible™ plant-based burgers and chicken nuggets as new entrée selections, appealing to students who are exploring plant-based options or simply looking to try something new.

In the coming months, students can look forward to even more delicious menu items! Our young learners at the ECC and Elementary Schools will enjoy fun additions like mini chicken sliders, all-beef pretzel dogs, birthday pancakes, themed nuggets, double dippers (whole-grain breaded ravioli and mozzarella sticks), and “pizza party” menu days. Meanwhile, students at the middle and high School can anticipate exciting new options such as Guajillo Chicken Cilantro Rice Bowls, Cheesy Chicken Shawarma Pita Sandwiches, Teriyaki Beef, Chicken Alfredo, and Korean Meatballs—there’s something fresh and flavorful for everyone!

We value feedback from parents and students about these new items, so please encourage them to reach out to the Food Services Director at FoodDude@hershey.k12.pa.us with any comments, suggestions, or ideas.

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland is a whimsical adaptation of Lewis Carroll's classic tale, following young Alice as she tumbles down a rabbit hole into a fantastical world filled with eccentric characters and bizarre adventures. From the Cheshire Cat to the peculiar Mad Hatter, Alice navigates a realm where logic is turned upside down and nothing is quite what it seems. This enchanting production combines imaginative storytelling, colorful costumes, and engaging music to create a delightful experience for all ages. Join Alice as she discovers the magic and madness of Wonderland in this captivating theatrical adventure!

November 22 & 23 @ 7:00PM, November 24 @ 1:30PM in the Hershey High School Auditorium

Approval of Schematic Design: During the October 21st School Board meeting, the Board of Directors approved the conceptual design selection and approval to move into the schematic design phase. The administration recommended that the board approve option 1, which Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates presented. Option 1 included a new stand-alone Elementary School and a renovated portion of the Early Childhood Center to be used as the District Office. The current Hershey Elementary School would be demolished after the construction of the new Elementary School.

As we continue into the schematic design phase, we continue to focus on key concepts and layouts to develop a guide the building's look, feel, and function. This stage involves collaborating with our architect to create drawings that reflect the district’s educational vision and student needs. Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates will be presenting at our November 18th General Services meeting and December 9th Board Meeting.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Elementary School Building Project Community Night on Monday, September 30! If you were unable to attend or would like to revisit the presentation, it is now available for your review on our website.

Presentation and Q&A Recording

November 4, 2024
Curriculum Committee - 4PM

Policy Committee - 5PM

Board Meeting - 7PM

November 18, 2024:

General Services - 4PM
Finance Committee - 5PM

Board Meeting - 7PM

• District-Wide Calendar
• Athletic Schedule
• 24-25 Year at a Glance Calendar
• Menus
• Careers at DTSD
• Trojan Trading Post
• Elementary Building Project Updates & Information
• Care Solace - Mental Health Care Coordination Service for Derry Township School District
• Technology Help Center
• Bus Stop Information

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