NEWS FROM THE PANTHER DEN

Recently, Survivor aired a powerful episode featuring Eva, a contestant whose journey on the show provided a profound reminder of the importance of support. During the episode, Eva experienced an overwhelming moment due to sensory overload. As she struggled, her former tribemate, Joe, stepped in with patience and understanding, offering calm reassurance that helped her regain composure. His support allowed Eva to navigate the moment and continue competing, demonstrating the profound impact that a compassionate ally can have in difficult situations. His tribe’s encouragement, coupled with her own determination, enabled her to push through adversity and succeed. The emotional moment that followed—when Eva spoke about the significance of having a community that believes in her and understands her—resonated deeply, serving as a valuable lesson in how understanding and reassurance can empower individuals to thrive. She explained that she had autism and felt it was important that everyone understand what she was experiencing in that moment and how important it was to feel the love and support from those around her.

As we recognize Autism Acceptance Month, Eva’s story reminds us why fostering an inclusive and supportive environment is so vital. Autism Acceptance Month is not just about awareness—it is about embracing neurodiversity, understanding different perspectives, and ensuring that all individuals feel valued and supported. In our school community, we must continue to advocate for inclusivity, ensuring that every student has the tools and encouragement needed to succeed.

Here at PTHS, we often talk about the significance of resilience, determination, and personal growth. But none of these qualities exist in a vacuum. Success is not solely about individual effort. It is also about the people who stand beside us, offering guidance and reassurance in moments of doubt. The Survivor episode underscored this truth, highlighting how a supportive environment can enable people to push beyond their comfort zones, take risks, and embrace their strengths.

For our students, this message is especially important. Every person in our building has unique talents, challenges, and ways of navigating the world. When we foster an atmosphere of inclusivity and acceptance, we give each student the confidence to explore their potential fully. Whether through peer mentorship, teacher encouragement, or simply the kindness of a classmate, support transforms obstacles into opportunities.

As we reflect this week, let us ask ourselves: How do we show up for others? How do we ensure that no one feels isolated or unheard? Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in our day-to-day interactions, we all have the ability to be someone's support system. In doing so, we strengthen our entire school community.

Let’s continue to adapt, evolve, and excel—together. #nocknation

Mr. Hayzler was out in the wild serving sandwiches at Jersey Mike's in Lincoln Park this week as part of the Home and School Association Fundraiser. Thanks to everyone who came out to support the cause! Hope you enjoyed your sandwich! Thanks to Girls Lax and Boys Tennis for stopping by!

For more than 100 years, Rensselaer, in conjunction with high schools around the world, has awarded the Rensselaer Medal to promising secondary school students who have distinguished themselves in mathematics and science. The Medal was first presented in 1916 with two purposes: to recognize the superlative academic achievement of young men and women, and to motivate students toward careers in science, engineering, and technology. We are excited that Evan Pera, a junior at PTHS, is a recipient of this award. Medalists who are accepted to Rensselaer and enroll receive at $40,000 scholarship per year.

Today was the final day of Marking Period 3. Grades will be due on Wednesday, April 9th at 3:00 pm. Report Cards will be on Realtime before we leave for Spring Break on April 11th.

We will be having our Spring Pep Rally on Friday, April 11th. We will follow our Pep Rally schedule.

Student Council is ready to get our Spring Pep going as we head into the break. We hope you will join the students in participating in the Spirit Week themes! Friday will be an "Orange Out" for Gavin so break out your Game on Gavin shirts and/or something orange!

As Spring approaches and warmer weather is on the horizon, spring sports at PTHS have started. For the safety of our students, athletes and spectators, skateboards, bikes, scooters and/or e-bikes are not permitted on the track or in the athletic complex at any time. Bikes, scooters and/or e-bikes should be parked in the designated racks outside the facility. This includes weekends. Thank you for your cooperation.

Spring Sports scrimmages are starting up this week. Don't miss out on the action!

https://www.nwjerseyac.com/public/genie/235/school/29/

The district is hoping to form a team for the Relay for Life on 6/8. Local partners include Montville Township, Lincoln Park. Boonton and Boonton Township and this event that supports the American Cancer Society. Anyone who is interested in serving as the liaison for our group should contact Dr. Portas. For more details, check out this flyer or this link.

Help the PTHS Class of 2025 as they support the local food pantry! Please bring any canned goods to your English class!

The Home and School Association is holding their annual "Senior Sign Sale" for the PTHS Class of 2025. These yard signs are a great way to recognize your senior(s) as they prepare to graduate. Signs are customizable and can be ordered between now and May 2nd to be ready prior to Memorial Day Weekend. If you would like them prior ot Mother's Day, they must be ordered by April 25th. You can order your signs here: https://pthshsa.org/senior-yard-signs. If you have any questions, please reach out to us at paws@pthshsa.org.

April 4th: End of Marking Period 3

April 9th: Operation Smile Fashion Show. 7:30 pm

April 10th: Pequannock Jazz Night 7:00 pm

April 11th: Spring Pep Rally

April 14th - April 21st: SPRING BREAK

April 29th: NJSLA Testing

April 30th: NJSLA Testing

May 1st : Spring Musical 7:00 pm

May 2nd: Spring Musical 7:00 pm

May 3rd: Spring Musical 7:00 pm

May 5th: AP Testing Begins

We start with a Day 3 on Monday. If you have any questions please see Jenn or Brian.

DUTY SCHEDULE: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1sDe5dfevgMM9S89wXJuoR3BAV3mKSGAANFIwr3afx4w/edit?usp=sharing

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

Email: attendance@pequannock.org
Website: www.pequannock.org
Location: 85 Sunset Road, Pompton Plains, NJ, USA
Phone: (973) 616-6000