Pennsbury On Point

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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• Confidential Residency Reporting Tip Line
• District Emails Archive
• E-Flyers
• Employment Opportunities at Pennsbury School District
• Harlem Wizards Tickets
• Part-Time Jobs for Students
• Pennsbury Parent Academy - Events & Recordings
• PHS Project Updates
• Safe Arrival Attendance Reporting System
• Safe2Say - Anonymous Tip Line
• Special Education Advisory Council (SEPAC)

All Pennsbury schools and offices are closed Monday, November 11 in observance of Veterans Day. Each year, on the 11th day of the 11th month, we take time to recognize those who have served to protect us and perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations. Pennsbury is a community with strong ties to military service with 14 former PHS students giving the ultimate sacrifice in several wars. The Pennsbury School District is proud to employ over a dozen veterans who support our mission to educate almost 10,000 students.

The Pennsbury High School Long Orange Line was featured on 6ABC on Friday, November 8, making us Pennsbury Proud! The band will march in the LMT Veterans Day Parade tomorrow. The parade will begin at 1:00 p.m., run along Edgewood Road, and end at the Veterans Square Monument. And of course, don't miss the band as they make their annual appearance in the 6ABC Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia on November 28!

Several Pennsbury schools came together to honor local heroes by hosting events ahead of Veterans Day. Charles Boehm and Pennwood Middle Schools, and Makefield and Oxford Valley Elementary Schools opened their doors to veterans within the community, as well as veterans who are relatives of Pennsbury students.

Members of the Pennsbury High School AFJROTC attended the events at Pennwood and Charles Boehm, presenting the colors and creating a patriotic sabre arch to honor the veterans as they departed. Each event featured inspiring student musical performances, adding to the heartfelt atmosphere. At Makefield and Oxford Valley Elementary Schools, students had the special opportunity to speak about their relatives who have served, sharing stories of pride and gratitude.

It was a series of memorable events filled with reflection, respect, and thanks for those who have bravely served our country.

In honor of Veterans Day, Pennsbury High School students in Mr. Twersky's art class created over 30 unique flower pots to donate to Heroic Gardens. This non-profit organization supports veterans and caregivers in the Delaware Valley through gardening and plant-based therapies. Heroic Gardens uses these therapeutic practices to promote mental wellness and provide alternative healing pathways for those who have served our country. This project not only allowed students to develop their ceramic skills but also gave them an opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause, supporting veterans with the healing power of nature.

In honor of Veterans Day, sixth-grade students at Pennwood Middle School used their creativity and artistic skills to design heartfelt posters thanking and honoring our veterans. These talented students poured thought and gratitude into each piece, with colorful designs, meaningful messages, and symbols representing service and sacrifice. Their artwork is a tribute to the courage and dedication of veterans, acknowledging the invaluable contributions they’ve made for our country. Posters have been displayed to share their message of appreciation. Pictured here are just a few examples of the beautiful artwork created by these remarkable young artists.

On Wednesday, November 6, 7th and 8th grade students from Charles Boehm, Pennwood, and William Penn Middle Schools came together at Pennsbury High School West's Keller Hall for an afternon filled with music and harmony at the Pennsbury Middle School Choir Festival!

Under the expert guidance of Pennsbury High School Choir Director Lindsay Strauss and accompanist Joshua Suslak, these talented young singers participated alongside the Pennsbury High School Chamber Choir in an intense four-hour rehearsal where they learned and perfected five songs.

The festival culminated in a beautiful performance for family and friends, showcasing their hard work and dedication.

A huge shoutout to all the students for their incredible effort and to everyone who supported this day of music and community! Bravo!

Congratulations to the Pennsbury School District orchestra members who participated in the Bucks County Music Educator's (BMEA) String Day. The day brings together top orchestra students from across Bucks County in an intensive rehearsal culminating in a concert that showcases an impressive display of talent.

This year String Day was held on Saturday, November 4 at Holland Middle School in the Council Rock School District. String Day has been an integral part of BMEA since 1989

On Tuesday, November 5, Pennsbury schools were closed to students for Election Day, but our dedicated staff members were hard at work! Teachers, administrators, and support staff participated in a day full of professional development, focusing on essential topics that support our students and strengthen our school community.

Staff focused on the following key areas of learning:

• Responsive Classroom: Responsive classrooms foster cooperation, empathy, and self-control. This approach emphasizes creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where students feel valued and are supported in both academic and social-emotional growth.
• Restorative Practices: Restorative practices help students take responsibility for their actions and understand the impact they have on others. This approach focuses on building strong relationships and repairing harm within the school community by encouraging open dialogue and mutual respect.

In addition to these topics, Pennsbury staff engaged in grade-level collaboration, curriculum and department meetings, and more. It was an impactful day of learning designed to continue to enhance the quality of education in Pennsbury schools!

Last week, Makefield Elementary kindergarteners dove into an exciting lesson on pumpkins! After learning about the life cycle and various parts of a pumpkin, they got hands-on experience with three large carving pumpkins generously donated by Wegmans. The young scientists explored the insides, sorted seeds, and even conducted an experiment to see if pumpkins sink or float. To their surprise, they discovered that pumpkins float! The activity wrapped up with a pumpkin carving demonstration, bringing their pumpkin exploration to a festive close.

Ms. Holzerman’s third-grade class at Walt Disney Elementary enjoyed a special presentation about Diwali, given by their classmate, Tia Karthikeyan. Tia, whose family celebrates the holiday, created a beautiful poster to share the history and meaning of Diwali with her classmates. She also brought a homemade diya for the class to see and touch, adding a hands-on experience to the lesson. To wrap up, Tia shared an elephant craft for her classmates to create, making the celebration both educational and interactive.

In the Preschool Academy course offered by the Family & Consumer Sciences Department at Pennsbury High School, high school students painted pumpkins inspired by popular children’s books. Pre-K students joined in on the fun by voting for their favorite pumpkin, placing ballots into special boxes and proudly wearing “I voted!” stickers.

After much excitement, the winning pumpkin was… Elsa!

Matt Levin, Supervisor of Special Education & Gifted Programming, K-12 and Audra Golder, Coordinator of Gifted Education Programming, recently represented Pennsbury School District with distinction at the Pennsylvania Association for Gifted Education (PAGE) Conference in Pittsburgh. Their presentation, which highlighted the development of gifted assurances and the effectiveness of Pennsbury’s supervisor and coordinator model, demonstrated the district’s commitment to supporting gifted education.

Their insights and success in developing a supportive framework for gifted education resonated with educators and administrators from across the state. Their work was so well-received that they have been invited to present at the national conference next year—a prestigious honor that reflects the high quality and impact of their efforts. Congratulations to Mr. Levin and Mrs. Golder for this outstanding work. We appreciate all that you do for our students!

Walt Disney Elementary School held its second annual Fall Festival on October 26. Students enjoyed carnival games, PE activities, a giant inflatable obstacle course, face painting by PHS art students, and the newest additions to the festival - pony rides and the petting zoo! The beautiful weather provided a perfect day for families, students, and staff to enjoy the festivities.

In addition to the activities, families also got a peak at emergency response vehicles at the Touch-a-Truck station courtesy of the Tullytown Police Department and Levittown-Fairless Hills Rescue Squad. And, For those daring enough, there was a Mystery Box station with some mysterious gross items to feel and smell.

A huge shout-out to festival organizers Mr. Kennedy and Ms. Cassidy, along with the many staff, Walt Disney alums, and parent volunteers, for another fun Walt Disney Fall Festival!

Last week, kindergarten and fourth-grade buddy classes at Fallsington Elementary School teamed up for a hands-on pumpkin exploration! Together, they experimented to see if their pumpkins would sink or float and measured the height, weight, and circumference of each one. Afterward, they opened the pumpkins and separated the seeds from the pulp. The seeds will be roasted for a fun taste test that everyone is excited to try!

William Penn Middle School’s sixth-grade Turkey Trot took place yesterday! Students put their best foot forward, showing off their running skills and cheering each other on. Congratulations to the top finishers in this fun event:

• 1st Place: Ryan C. with a time of 6:14
• 2nd Place: Kullen B. with a time of 6:16
• 3rd Place: Charlie R. with a time of 6:33
• 4th Place: River Z.M. with a time of 6:48

A big congratulations to all participants for their fantastic effort, making this year’s Turkey Trot a memorable one!

Come out on TODAY, November 8 from 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. to Playa Bowls at 110 Lincoln Highway in Fairless Hills to support Pennsbury Kids. Please mention the fundraiser when placing an order.

Pennsbury Kids is a non-profit organization dedicated to working with the Pennsbury School District to provide funds to solve needs for students that are not able to be met with existing programs from federal, state, county, or other nonprofit organizations. Pennsbury Kids support our students in many ways throughout the year through things like instrument donations, collection drives for the district's food pantries, and most recently, strong support for Pennsbury's Starting School "Write" event. This community-driven initiative, support students and families as they prepare for the new school year by providing free back-to-school haircuts and school supplies.

The world-famous Harlem Wizards, proudly presented by NorthPoint Development, are returning to Pennsbury! This family-friendly event will take place on Friday, December 6, at 7:00 p.m. at Pennsbury High School East (705 Hood Boulevard, Fairless Hills.) Click here to get your tickets. Last year's game sold out, so act fast! Check out the photos and video from last year's game!

All event proceeds will benefit the Pennsbury Education Foundation (PEF). Since its inception in 2003, the PEF has raised nearly $300,000 , which helps cover the costs of classroom mini-grants to enhance curriculum for Pennsbury students. Your support of the Pennsbury Education Foundation helps our teachers bolster the District's mission to prepare all students to become creative, ethical, and critical thinkers for lifelong success in a global society.

Thank you to our generous sponsors NorthPoint Development, Michael's Jewelers, McCaffrey's Food Markets, and CM3 Building Solutions.

We hope to see you on Friday, December 6, at 7:00 p.m. at Pennsbury High School East as the Wizards take on some of your favorite teachers and staff members for a night of tricks, hoops, and alley-oops!

Pennsbury High School Drama Club Proudly Presents

Almost, Maine by John Cariani

It's about love...but not quite!

When: November 21-23 at 7:30 p.m.

Where: PHS West, The Cave (608 South Olds Blvd)

All Tickets $10 (Cash only at door)

Click here to purchase tickets!

Pennsbury High School Drama Club Proudly Presents

A play about the magic of childhood:

S.T.A.G.E. Magic Theatre

When: November 23 at 2:00 p.m.

Where: PHS West, The Cave (608 South Olds Blvd)

All tickets $5 (Cash only at door)

Click here to purchase tickets!

**Magic Theatre is a relaxed performance for all ages and abilities.**

The Pennsbury Community Swap event is back! Give away your old things and pick up new ones - all items are free of charge! All families in the Pennsbury community are welcome.

Where: Manor Elementary School

When: Saturday, November 16, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Click here for more information.

The final date to get your Senior Portrait taken to be featured in the yearbook is November 15, 2024. No Senior Portraits will be accepted after this date. There are no exceptions.

Offer/Price/Start-End Dates

• Back to School (Free Icons)
• $85.00
• 8/31/24 - 10/25/24
• Campaign 1
• $90.00
• 10/26/24 - 11/15/24
• Campaign 2
• $90.00
• 11/16/24 - 12/13/24
• Last Chance to Buy Personalization Online
• $90.00
• 12/14/24 - 1/31/25
• Limited Supply
• $95.00

Personalization: $10

Icons: $5

Signature Package: $18

Clear Protective Cover, Autograph Section, Photo Pockets: $5

Advertisements

• Full Page: $265.00
• 1/2 Page: $140.00
• 1/4 Page: $90.00
• 1/8 Page: $50.00

Please contact Nick Ruggieri with any questions at nruggieri@pennsburysd.org.

Join us for the PHS Mini-Thon Turkey Trot on Saturday, November 16 at 10:00 a.m. at Pennsbury High School. Please click here to register!

By participating in the Turkey Trot, you'll be joining the fight to conquer childhood cancer alongside Four Diamonds, an organization dedicated to assisting children treated at Penn State Health Children's Hospital and their families. Four Diamonds covers 100 percent of all medical expenses related to cancer care not covered by insurance for eligible Four Diamonds children.

Let’s come together as a community to walk or run and make a difference for kids fighting cancer. See you on November 16!

Download and sign up for the FREE SchoolMessenger app and receive all of your Pennsbury School District emails & notifications in one place! There are several different SchoolMessenger apps available. Make sure to download the app that says "SM Home". You will create your account using the email address you have on file at your child's school. It is necessary to download the app to use the new Safe Arrival Student Absence Reporting System.

Safe Arrival Student Absence Reporting System - The Pennsbury School District prioritizes the safe arrival of all students at each school each day. We are now pleased to offer an efficient student absence reporting system called Safe Arrival to support our efforts. Please visit the Safe Arrival page on our website for more information and learn how to use the system.

Click here to view the latest news from the Pennsbury Athletics Department.

As a district, we are committed to keeping you informed and constantly strive to improve the effectiveness of our communications with you. We are all too familiar with how inundated one's email inbox can become, and we don't want you to miss any important information from us!

To that end, the district administration team will send non-emergency communications to families on Thursdays as needed. These emails will contain links to important updates and information you need to know. All PSD Family Updates will also be posted on our website under "District Email Archive."

We will do our best to keep to this email schedule, obviously barring emergencies, so you can be assured that any necessary information from the district will be emailed to you on Thursdays as needed. In the event of an emergency, we will communicate with families in as timely a manner as possible.

We want to ensure you receive timely and important updates from our school district. The best way to stay informed about emergency situations, weather-related notifications, and other critical news is through our text message alerts.

👉 To opt-in, simply text the letter Y or YES to 67587 from the mobile device you have on file with the school district.

🔍 Not sure which mobile number is on file? No problem! Just check with the front office staff at your child's school to confirm the correct number.

The district does not charge recipients for the text messages they receive or send to the short code; however, wireless providers may charge for individual text messages, depending on the plan associated with the wireless device. Please check with your carrier if you are uncertain.

Stay informed and stay safe. Sign up today to make sure you never miss an important update from Pennsbury School District! 📚✨

Starting this year, the Pennsbury Activities Calendar will no longer be in PDF format. It is now built directly into the Pennsbury website. Click here to view! (Be sure to scroll down.)

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!

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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 Kitchen Managers, Cooks, and Food Service Workers at Pennsbury School District!

Great opportunity! Monday through Friday, daylight shifts, no nights or weekends. Competitive wages offered.

Learn more about additional opportunities with us and join our team today! Apply online now at: tngcareers.com and search “Pennsbury” or call our office at 215-428-4100 ext. 22201

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