Parent Emails for 23-24

Hello to all parents and guardians of Penn Middle Students.  I hope you are enjoying your weekend.

PTO Spirit Wear

Please visit the Spirit Wear Website: https://www.lnjspiritwear.com/store/c106/PENN_MIDDLE_SCHOOL.html#/

• Items on sale until March 4
• Orders delivered week of March 25
• Spiritwear sales support the PTO

Reality Tour 

The Reality Tour is a parent/child drug-prevention experience with lasting impact. It provides the foundation for open discussion during the teen years.

The Reality Tour open to Penn Middle School students and parents will be held Tuesday March 26, 2024.  I suggest this program for 7th & 8th-grade students and parents.

Please visit the main page (bottom) of the PMS Website for more information.

Advanced Classes for the 2024-2025 School Year

Soon we will begin the 24-25 middle school scheduling process. If your child is not in advanced literature or math and you would like him or her to be screened to be, please email Mrs. Schrinel ([email protected]) by May 1, 2024.  

2024 State Testing

Below are the 2024 PSSA & Keystone Testing Dates.  Please refrain from scheduling family trips on these days.  We suggest medical appointments be made for the afternoon as the testing will require most of the morning.

• April 23, 24, & 25 - PSSA English & Language Arts 

• April 30, May 1 - PSSA Mathematics

• May 7 & 8 - PSSA & Local Science 

• May 15 & 16 - Keystone Algebra 

Snap-Chat

The social media program continues to cause issues for students here in school.  Most of the issues we have had this year happened outside of school, but then talk and rumors pour into school.  As I said last in my last email, chat-rooms can be evil, but Snap-Chat is the most evil.  Do yourself a favor and do not allow your middle school child to use/install this platform.  I have observed countless negatives coming from Snap-Chat, nothing positive at all.  

Website and Instagram

Reminder to keep up with all the great things happening at Penn Middle and in the district; go to this link to see our Instagram page and this link for the PM website. 

Calendar of Events

Feb 19 - No School for Students or Staff

Feb 21 - PTO Meeting 7pm in Library

Feb 28 - Club Day

Mar 7 - Teen Savers

Mar 13 - Club Day

Mar  15 - End of Q3

               Junior High County Chorus

Mar 20 - Band Concert 7:30 pm

Mar 25 & 26 - 6th-grade JA Biztown field trip

Mar 26 - 6th-grade Chorus Concert 7:30 pm

Mar 27 - Last Club Day for 23-24

               7 & 8 grade Chorus Concert 7:30 pm

April 4 - Teen Savers

April 19 & 20 - Drama Club Presents Addams Family Jr.

April 23, 24, & 25 - PSSA Dates ELA 

April 30, May 1 - PSSA Math

May 2 - 8th-grade trip to Gettysburg

             7th-grade trip to CWCTC

May 7 & 8 - PSSA & Local Science 

May 15 & 16 - Keystone Algebra 

May 17 - 8th-grade Farewell

May 21 - GRIT 5K at Bushy Run

May 22 - Yearbook Dance

May 23 - Last Day of School - Early Dismissal Day

Thank you for taking time to read this parent email.  Please email or call me if you have any questions or concerns.

Jim Simpson

[email protected]

724-744-4431

Penn Middle School Parent Email for January 31, 2024

Cell Phone update, the good and the bad.

The Good - Our in-school cell phone policy is working very well, and we have had virtually no issues this year.  Students can bring cellphones to school, but they must remain in their lockers throughout the day.  This is having a positive impact on classroom learning compared to our previous policy - putting cell phones in a caddy as students enter classrooms.  We also do not permit students to have cell phones during lunch, and the results are wonderful.  Kids have to talk to each other at lunch. It is a little loud, but it’s good; this is going to happen with 200 kids in a cafeteria for 30 minutes.  They are actually having full in-depth conversations with each other - not a nod or a “hmmf” response while scrolling. Thank you to Mr. Waszo; he was the driving force behind this policy change.

The Bad - I strongly suggest Amanda’s cell phone charge nightly in your bedroom from 10 pm to 6 am.  The two major reasons are obvious - Sleep and Cyberbullying. A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that children ages six to 18 had an 88% higher risk of not sleeping enough when devices were in the bedroom.  Another study outlines many students report getting much less sleep than recommended each night.  The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that children aged 6–12 years should regularly sleep at least 9 hours per night, and teenagers aged 13–18 years should sleep at least 8 hours per night.

Often, we have outside of school cyberbullying problems that “bleed” into school.  Since we returned from the Holiday Break, we had three issues of cyberbullying that took place out of school that we had to address in school.  You might ask, why are you addressing issues that took place outside of school?  It is my responsibility as a school administrator to monitor any act that may affect a student's quality of learning while at school and out of school cyberbullying can have a devastating effect on students here in school.

One footnote about out of school problems - online chat rooms are evil.  Do yourself a favor; don’t allow Amanda in any chat rooms.  These cause major problems, and most importantly, students are being negatively affected by what is said/written in these rooms.

A final suggestion is a Cell Phone Agreement between you and Amanda.  This sample document can be personalized to meet your individual family needs and parameters. The contract is designed to create an open line of communication between you and Amanda regarding his/her cell phone.  The goal is to help him/her become a well-rounded person who can coexist with technology, NOT be ruled by it.

Clubs Update

Introducing "The Unity Club" at Penn Middle School - a haven for middle schoolers who often find themselves feeling misunderstood or out of place. This inclusive club aims to create a sense of unity and belonging among students, providing a safe and welcoming space for anyone in need. The Unity Club encourages camaraderie, empathy, and understanding, fostering an environment where every member can express themselves without fear of judgment. Join us in building connections, breaking down barriers, and celebrating the diversity that makes Penn Middle School a vibrant community. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that no student feels alone on their journey through middle school.

Racial Harassment Update

In my parent email on January 15, I shared my concern and recent actions regarding hate speech and racial harassment at our school. Additionally, my visit to each 6th-grade ELA classroom to address this problem was explained.  I am pleased to report we had many positive comments about our commitment to address racial harassment, and more importantly, we have not had any racial comments since we addressed it with our students.  I am embarrassed we had to address this issue in 2024.  Please continue to discuss this issue and set an example of acceptance and understanding in your home.  We will continue to look for programs and curriculum updates that focus on equity, fairness, and goodwill.

Upcoming Events

Feb 9 - 8th-grade Reality Fair

Feb 12-16 - Book Fair 

Feb 14 - Club Day & Midpoint of Q3

Feb 15 - CWCTC Assembly for all students

Feb 19 - Presidents’ Day - No school for students

Feb 21 - PTO Mtg 7 pm

Feb 28 - Club Day

Mar 15 - End of Q3

Happy New Year to all Penn Middle Families.  We hope your 2024 is spectacular!

Para-professional Volunteering

If you have some extra time and would like to volunteer to help us with our special needs students, please email me, [email protected]. We will take whatever amount of time you can help us. There is a clearance process we must follow, but it is VERY rewarding work. If interested, I will help you through the clearance process. Please call me at Penn Middle for more information - 724-744-4431.

SuperSub

If you would like to work as a full-time substitute at Penn Middle, please contact me via email or phone. I can be flexible with your schedule, even half-days.  Middle School is Cool . . . come be cool with us!

Hate Speech and Racial Discrimination

In my December email to parents, I shared a serious concern regarding hate speech, specifically negative comments toward students focusing on race. After we returned from the holiday, incidents continued to occur and primarily within the 6th-grade. I can’t explain why this is happening and I am embarrassed that it is; but most importantly, we need to be more proactive in protecting our students. On Wednesday and Thursday, I visited all of the 6th-grade ELA classrooms and taught a lesson on the district harassment and bullying policies with an emphasis on racism. The lesson covered 1) The importance of all students being able to learn in a positive, accepting environment, 2) What constitutes harassment and bullying, 3) How racism fits into the discipline code, 4) Recent racial comments said here at Penn Middle, 5) Discipline for racial harassment, 6) Standing up for those being harassed, and 7) Reporting any type of racial harassment to an adult.

The bottom line of all of this is any harassment of any student is unacceptable, and will be punished to the fullest extent.  Please make sure Amanda understands this.

Social Media Warning

It has come to our attention that there is an increase in incidents involving inappropriate content shared among our middle school students through social media platforms outside of school. We understand the concerns this may raise for you as parents, and we would like to emphasize the importance of open communication with your children about responsible social media usage. In today's interconnected world, it is crucial that we guide our students on the appropriate use of these platforms, fostering a safe and respectful online environment. Take the time to engage in conversations with your student about the potential consequences of their digital actions, the impact on their peers, and the importance of respectful communication. By working together, we can empower our students to make informed and responsible choices in the digital realm.

PTO Book Fair

The Penn Middle book fair is returning Feb 12th-15th. Students will attend with their reading teacher on assigned days. Parent volunteers are needed. Use the link below to sign up!

Yearbooks

The cost of the yearbook is $32.67 before tax. If you ordered last year, you should be able to log in and purchase one for this year.  You do not have to do the personalization when you order.  You have until March to personalize your child's pages.  If you haven't purchased before, please use our school code: 1016325111663265. 

Here is a link to create an account. - https://tr5.treering.com/create-account/1016325111663265

Link if you already have an account - https://auth.treering.com/

Less than half of our students (215/507) currently have ordered a yearbook

Please contact sponsor Lynn Eckberg ([email protected]) if you have any issues ordering.  If you would like to order a yearbook for a student from a less fortunate family, please send in a check to Mrs. Eckberg in an envelope marked “additional yearbook”. Thank you in advance for considering this request.

Spring Sports

Registration begins February 1. Registration is done through Arbiter Family ID.

Parents should check the PT Athletics Website (ptwariors.org) for upcoming practice/tryout info.

Sports physical will be held on Tuesday February 20.

Official Start Dates

Monday March 4

• Jr. High Baseball (grades 7-9) 

Monday March 18

• 7th & 8th Girls Softball

• 7th & 8th Coed Track

Nurse's Office Update

6th Grade - All 6th graders are required to submit a physical/well child exam and updated immunizations to the school nurse.  If you haven’t submitted these already, please do so ASAP. Physical/Well-Child Exams are DUE by APRIL 1st.  Please also notify the nurse if you have an upcoming appointment.   Physical forms are located on the district website on the Health Services page.   CLICK here for Health Forms

7th Grade - All 7th graders are required to submit a dental exam. If you haven’t submitted one, please do so ASAP. If your child has an upcoming appointment, please notify the nurse.        Dentals are DUE BY January 31st.   If you would like your child to be seen by the school dentist, please notify the nurse.  Dental forms are located on the district website on the Health Services page. CLICK here for Health Forms

Upcoming Events

Jan 25 - Student Council Limo Lunch Reward

Jan 31 - Club Day

Feb 9

• Dental Exams for 7th-grade students
• 8th-grade Reality Fair 

Feb 12 - Midpoint of Q3

Feb 12-15 - PTO Book Fair

Feb 14 - Valentine's Day and Club Day

Feb 15 - Central Westmoreland Career and Technical Center (CWCTC) Assembly

Feb 16 - 6th-grade County Chorus 

Feb 17 - PTO Mtg

Feb 19 - President's Day - No School for Students

Feb 28  - Club Day

Thank you for your continued support and please contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Jim Simpson

724-744-4431

[email protected]

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Hello, Parents/Guardians of Penn Middle School Students,

Penn Middle School Social Media

Please check our PM website and Instagram page often.  Our staff works diligently to promote the many positive events going on at Penn Middle School and to keep students and parents completely up-to-date on what's happening in school.

Yearbooks

Orders are open for this year's yearbook. The cost of the yearbook is $32.67 before tax. If you ordered last year, you should be able to log in and purchase one for this year.  You do not have to do the personalization when you order.  You have until March to personalize your child's pages.  If you haven't purchased before, please use our school code: 1016325111663265. 

Here is a link to create an account. - https://tr5.treering.com/create-account/1016325111663265

Link if you already have an account - https://auth.treering.com/

Please contact sponsor Lynn Eckberg ([email protected]) if you have any issues ordering.

Hate Speech Concern

During the months of October and November, our school has been impacted by unfortunate incidents related to hate speech.  While any hate speech is too much, there has been an increase in reports compared to previous years.  We understand the gravity of these situations and the impact they can have on our students. It is disheartening to learn of any form of hate within our school community, and we want to assure you that we are committed to addressing these issues head-on.

In the past, we have taken reactive steps, such as discipline for the guilty and ongoing check-ups for the victims, but in light of the recent increase in incidents, we need to increase our proactive measures.  

In response to these incidents, Penn Middle School is taking a stance to foster a more accepting and supportive environment for everyone. We believe in creating a space where differences are respected, and every individual feels valued. Here are some of the steps we are taking to be more proactive and create a sense of belonging for all at Penn Middle:

• Open Dialogue and Communication

• Educational Programs for Students and Staff

• Training and Professional Development

• Support Resources

• Community Partnerships

What can you do as a parent?  

First, please have a dialogue with Amanda, explain how any form of hate speech is unacceptable.   

Second, serve as the model for respecting others. Hate speech will simply not be accepted on any level at Penn Middle. Please make sure Amanda understands the school’s stance on this issue.  

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to the positive changes we can make together in the coming months and years.

After School Math Tutoring

We are pleased to announce that Penn Middle School is currently offering After-School Math Tutoring. The benefit of the program is to help your child get the extra support they may need for their math class. This can range from working on homework, reviewing for a test, reviewing concepts that a student is struggling with, or helping a student catch-up on work they have missed due to an absence.  After-School Math Tutoring will begin Tuesday, December 5.

• LOCATION: Penn Middle School Room 121

• DAYS: Every Tuesday & Thursday 

• TIME: 3:00 - 4:00 PM

Transportation is NOT provided and is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Please be in the front parking lot by 3:55 for pick-up. 

If you are planning to have Amanda stay for tutoring, please contact Mr. Cochenour ([email protected]) and Mrs. Ruffner ([email protected]) via email.

Flexible Instruction Days (FID)

In previous emails, I have explained the FID process.  Please go to this link for an explanation of the process when we have to close school due to inclement weather or other reason.  

Upcoming Events

Dec 5 - Midpoint of Q2

Dec 6 - Band Concert  7:30 pm

Dec 8 - In-school Band Concert

Dec 12 - 6th-grade Chorus Concert 7:30 pm

Dec 13

• Club Day 9:30 am
• 7th & 8th-grade Chorus Concert 7:30 pm

Dec 15 - In-school Chorus Concert 

Dec 18-22 Holiday Spirit Week Themes

• Monday:  PJ Day
• Tuesday:  Holiday Hat Day
• Wednesday:  Ugly Sweater Day 
• Thursday: Holiday Movie Character Day
• Friday:  Flannel Friday

Dec 18 - 7th & 8th grade Band and Chorus to Connect 55

Dec 19 - High School Band and Encore (in-school concert)

Dec 21

• Make-a-Wish Telethon at PTHS
• Light Up the World at PMS

Dec 22

• Senior Citizen Breakfast

• Last Day of instruction before Winter Break

Jan 2 - First Day Back from Winter Break

Thank you for your time and please contact me with any questions or concerns.

I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season!

Jim Simpson Principal

Penn Middle School

[email protected]

724-744-4431

Parents and Guardians,

I hope your extra hour on Fall Back Sunday was spent resting - you deserve it.

New Quarter

Last Monday was the first day of the 2nd Quarter. Our students are generally “in the swing of things” and should have a clear understanding of what is expected of them.  This is much easier said than done, but I am pleased with our progress thus far. In any case, if your son or daughter is struggling with academics, friendships, or something else. Please contact the individual teacher, our counselor Mrs. Schrinel, or me.  We are ready to help.

Yearbook Photo Link

If you have photos of our students from sports, clubs, or any other activity that you would like to suggest for yearbook inclusion, please upload them to this website.  If you have yearbook questions, please contact Mrs. Eckberg ([email protected]).

Landram’s Light 

Landram’s Light was established earlier this year to honor our former colleague Mrs. Jackie Landram. Jackie was a Language Arts teacher at Penn Middle, who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2015.  Sadly, she lost her battle on January 25, 2022.  To many of us, Jackie was one of the strongest individuals we’ve ever known, and we saw firsthand the struggles she endured.  Although she faced an uncertain future, she didn’t let that take away from the joys of life and her kind spirit. She continued to live her life with GRIT. This stands for Grace, Resilience, Integrity, and Tenacity. During her seven-year battle, she fearlessly exhibited admirable qualities, such as Grace in overcoming her struggles, Resiliency in recovering quickly from challenges she faced, Integrity in staying true to her strong moral values, and Tenacity in remaining determined. One of the focal points of Landram’s Light is taking care of our own in the Penn-Trafford Community. This year the charity would like to resume the tradition of providing Thanksgiving Dinners to the families of our Penn Middle students who are in need. The meal will feed a family of four and can be picked up or delivered on the afternoon of Wednesday, November 22, 2023. Please contact Rick Steele at [email protected] with any questions or to sign up a family in need.

Chromebook Issues

If your child is having technical issues with his/her chromebook, please contact Mrs. Reott our librarian at [email protected] or 724-744-4431 ext 2004.

Parent Communication

When sending an email to me or any of our staff please include your child’s first and last name on the email.  With over 500 students in the building, we have numerous first name repetitions and blended families with differing last names.

Joking Around

Often when investigating a bullying report, an alleged bully will say "I was just joking around." Then the child and sometimes parents expect me to just give a warning about this "joking around" behavior. This is not going to happen.  If a child is "joking around" and doesn't realize he/she is causing another student distress, he/she should have known better and will be punished accordingly. I don't like to highlight negative issues, but we will not allow any type of bullying. If bullying is substantiated, discipline will fit the behavior.

If your child tells you about bullying behavior, we are ready to listen and investigate the issue; please have him/her see me, Mr. Waszo, or Mrs. Schrinel as soon as possible.  We also have the Safe2Say website, which accepts anonymous reports of bullying and/or related events. Lastly, we have two physical bully boxes, these are anonymous drop-off boxes for students to give us written notes of bullying reports.

Winter Sports Registration

Winter Sports at the Middle School 

• 7th & 8th Grade Boys Basketball

• 7th & 8th Grade Girls Volleyball

• 7th & 8th Grade Wrestling

Important Dates

• November 15 is the last day to register for Winter sports.

• Free physicals will be held November 7th from 5 to 7 pm.

• Click this link to register for Winter Sports.

For all information on winter sports go to his link.

50 Ways to be a Fantastic Parent

Do you worry about your parenting skills?  Please review this online article for a simple guide to being a better parent.  

Flexible Instruction Days (FID)

In the event we experience inclement weather, the school district may decide to operate on a Two-hour Delay Schedule or utilize a Flexible Instruction Day (FID) with students working remotely from home the entire day.  Flexible Instruction Days will be used this year to avoid having to cancel school due to inclement weather.  If the weather or road conditions are dangerous, the students will participate in live GOOGLE MEETINGS online through each teacher’s Google Classroom.

Online Instruction Expectations:

1. Each student will follow his/her schedule and log onto the LIVE Google Meet. 

2. A Google Meet link for each class will be posted on the teachers' Google Classrooms. 

3. Attendance will be taken for each class. Failure to sign-in will result in class absence.   

4. Teachers will be LIVE and accessible during each class period.

5. Students will NOT have to login to study hall periods.

Note: classes are 30 minutes long---with a start of  9:30 A.M. and school finishing at 3 P.M.  See the schedule below.

FID Class Schedule:

*The Tutor time is time for students to contact teachers and/or support staff.

Important Upcoming Events

Nov 8 - Club Day

Nov 10 - Professional Development for Teachers - No School for Students

Nov 15 - PTO Meeting at 7pm in our Library

Nov 22 - Early Dismissal at 1pm

Nov 23 - 27 - Fall Break, No School for Students or Staff 

Nov 29 - Club Day

Dec 6 - Band Concert 7:30 pm

Dec 12 - 6th Grade Chorus Concert 7:30 pm

Dec 13 - 7th & 8th Grade Chorus Concert 7:30 pm

Thank you for taking time to read this parent email.  Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have.

Jim Simpson

[email protected]

724-744-4431

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September 25

Happy Fall to all Parents/Guardians of Penn Middle Students,

We have completed a full month of school.  Hopefully, any confusion, nervousness, or troubles have settled for {FIRST_NAME}.  If he/she continues to experience problems, please contact the Teacher of the class, our Counselor, our Head-Teacher, or myself. 

PTO Membership & Clubs

Please consider joining our PTO.  Complete the Membership Form and send it into school with your child.

This week students can sign up for clubs during their lunch, Monday is 8th-grade, Wednesday is 7th-grade, & Thursday is 6th-grade. 

Current Clubs that have Sponsors - Board Games, Chess, Culture, Diamond Painting, Drama, Fantasy Sports, Maker, Yearbook, and Yoga.

Clubs without Sponsors - Art, Bible, Cooking, Junior Firefighters, Lego, Photography, Trivia.  If no one volunteers to sponsor these clubs, we will not be able to offer these clubs to students.  Please consider volunteering to sponsor a club.  It is only 2X per month for 30 minutes a session.  If you are interested, please contact our PTO President, Jamie Yaremko, at [email protected].

Community Info/Take Home Tuesday Page

Please visit the info page on the Penn Middle Website often.  There are numerous district and community flyers for students and residents. This week’s additions include Junior. Wrestling.
 

Yearbooks

The link to purchase a yearbook online is found below. If you purchase a yearbook online before October 31, 2023 the yearbook price is discounted. The amount is $29.40. Otherwise the price is $34.63. Yearbooks can be ordered after the deadline, but you will pay for shipping. Please order your yearbook before the deadline, which is April 29, to avoid shipping charges. The arrival of the yearbook for the yearbook signing day is only guaranteed if the order is placed by the deadline. 

Yearbook 2023-2024

Important news from our Nurses

6th-grade - According to the State of Pennsylvania School mandates, all 6th graders are required to submit a copy of a physical exam and updated immunizations (specifically TDAP and MCV) to the school nurse. You can email these requirements directly to the nurse at [email protected].  Blank Physical forms are located on the district website on the Health Services page.  CLICK here for Health Forms    

7th-grade - According to the State of Pennsylvania School mandates, all 7th graders are required to submit a dental exam from the past year. You can email this exam directly to the nurse at [email protected]. Dental forms are located on the district website on the Health Services page. CLICK here for Health Forms

Reality Tour

The “Reality Tour” is open to Penn Middle School Students & Parents and will be held Tuesday October 24 at the Westmoreland County Courthouse, 2 N. Main St., Greensburg, PA 15601.  The Reality Tour is a parent/child drug prevention experience with lasting impact. It provides the foundation for open discussion during the teen years.

The Reality Tour Includes:

Dramatic presentation of choices made and consequences of a teen on drugs

Coping skills to use as a family

Q & A with youth in recovery

Requirements:  Your child must be at least 10 years old and attend with you. Parent  involvement is so critical to the experience.

To Register go to and follow the QR code below to sign up instructions for Penn-Trafford students and parents.

Transportation, snacks, and a gift card will be provided for each student attending, but parents also have the option to take your child directly to the courthouse.

Parking is available in Robert Bell Parking Garage W. Otterman St. Greensburg.

All attendees should arrive at 5:30 pm for a security check. The program begins at 6:00 PM

For questions about the Reality Tour contact: Bruno Mediate at [email protected] or call at 412-

508-2938

Important Upcoming Events

Sept 26  - Midpoint of 1st Quarter

Sept 25, 27, 28 – Club Sign-ups (8, 7, 6)

Oct 2-6 - GRIT Week in Honor of Mrs. Landram

• Monday, October 2 – Crazy Day (Hair, Socks, & Clothes)
• Tuesday, October 3 – Kenny Chesney Day
• Wednesday, October 4 – Class Color Day
• Thursday, October 5 – Teal Day
• Thursday, October 5 – School Dance
• Friday, October 6 – Pink Out & Dodge Ball Tournament

Oct 4 - “You’ve Got a Friend” Fieldtrip

Oct 5 – Teen Savers & School Dance

Oct 9 - Teacher Professional Development - No School for Students

Oct 10 - 1st Club Day 9:30 am (training prior for new staff @ 9 am)

Oct 11 - English as a Second Language Workshop 6pm in Library

Oct 12 - GRIT PIT Fund Food Truck Night at PMS

Oct 17 - Picture Make-up Day

Oct 18 - PTO Meeting 7pm

Oct 20 - Assembly “Ryan’s Story”

Oct 27 – End of 1st Quarter

Thank you for your time and please contact me with any questions, concerns, or suggestions

Jim Simpson

[email protected]

724-744-4431

Parents/Guardians of Penn Middle School Students,

Our first full 5-day week is completed - YESSSSSS!   We are seven days in and I am pleased with the effort of our students and staff.   We hope Amanda's first week has been successful. I apologize for any mishaps, hopefully they are few and far between.  If Amanda is experiencing any problems please contact me or a member of my staff and we will get it right.

Forms in Powerschool

Please make sure you have completed all the necessary forms in the Powerschool Parent Portal.  Under the navigation pane (on the left side), click on forms, then general forms.  If you don't see the navigation pane, click the small arrow by the letter G in Grades.

All of the following should be complete.

• Legal Guardian Info

• Student Demographics

• Emergency Contact Information

• Student Health Authorizations

• Student Health Information

• MS Student Handbook - Parents

• Chromebook/ipad agreement.

Most parents have completed these forms, thank you, but the MS Student Handbook was just added, so please complete this sometime this week.

Important news from our Nurses

6th-grade - According to the State of Pennsylvania School mandates, all 6th graders are required to submit a copy of a physical exam and updated immunizations (specifically TDAP and MCV) to the school nurse. You can email these requirements directly to the nurse at [email protected].  Blank Physical forms are located on the district website on the Health Services page.  CLICK here for Health Forms    

7th-grade - According to the State of Pennsylvania School mandates, all 7th graders are required to submit a dental exam from the past year. You can email this exam directly to the nurse at [email protected]. Dental forms are located on the district website on the Health Services page. CLICK here for Health Forms

Picture Day is Wednesday September 13

Every student will be photographed on Wednesday September 13 for our school yearbook. Student pictures are taken during the morning from 8 to 10 am. Each student will be given a form that contains their unique access code and the website where to go to view the image. Parents should also get an email from JN Photos when the images are online. Please allow up to 3 weeks for images to be posted online. If for some reason you do not like your proof a makeup day will be scheduled at a later date in October. Any questions please feel free to reach out to JN Photos at 724-382-4177 or [email protected]

Yearbooks

Online purchases

The link to purchase a yearbook online is found below. If you purchase a yearbook online before October 31, 2023 the yearbook price is discounted. The amount is $29.40. Otherwise the price is $34.63. Yearbooks can be ordered after the deadline, but you will pay for shipping. Please order your yearbook before the deadline, which is April 29, to avoid shipping charges. The arrival of the yearbook for the yearbook signing day is only guaranteed if the order is placed by the deadline. 

Yearbook 2023-2024

Purchase by Check

To purchase a yearbook by check, please make your check payable to Penn Middle School and please write "PMS yearbook" in the memo. If you purchase a yearbook by check before October 27, 2023 the amount is $29.40. If you purchase one after October 27, 2023 the amount is $34.63. The last date to purchase a yearbook by check is April 1, 2024, otherwise I cannot guarantee that the yearbook will arrive in time for the yearbook signing. 

If you would like to make a donation to the yearbook fund, please make your check payable to Penn Middle School and write "PMS yearbook" in the memo. The yearbook fund money will be used to purchase a yearbook for less fortunate students  who cannot afford one. All yearbook orders by check should be delivered by your child to Dr. Eckberg in room 208. 

PTO Clubs

Clubs meet every other Wednesday during the month beginning in October from 9:34 to 10:04am.  Below are the proposed clubs for this school year.  Some of these don’t have sponsors, so please consider giving our students some of your time, or we may not be able to have all of the clubs listed.  If you would like to help sponsor or co-sponsor a club, please contact Jame Evanik, our PTO President at [email protected].  Club sign-ups will take place the last week of September.

• Art

• Cooking

• Drama

• Chess

• Diamond painting 

• Board games 

• Fantasy Sports 

• Lego

• Kindness/LEAP

• Yearbook 

• Photography 

• Creative writing 

• Music

• Yoga

• Jr. Firefighter

• Newspaper

• Culture club

Cherrydale Student Council Fundraiser

We are excited to announce our school’s fall fundraiser kicked off:
Friday September 1! This is our biggest fundraiser of the year and all of the funds raised will directly benefit all of our students at Penn Middle School. 

To reach our school goal, we are asking every family to at least register online and add 5 contacts to share our fundraiser with your family & friends online. All orders are due no later than Tuesday, September 19th. 

4 Quick Steps to support our school: 

1. Register your student online at shop.gwrcfundraising.com & enter our campaign ID: 10998

2. Add at least 5 contacts of family & friends

3. Shop Online & Share In-Person 

4. Home delivery available, but all cookie dough orders will ship to the school. 

•   If Amanda sells 10 or more items, they will attend the MEGA PARTY during school! 

•  If Amanda sells 20 or more items, they will be invited to our LIMO LUNCH PARTY during school! 

To find a list of all the other prizes they can win and more information, see the fundraising packet that was sent home with students today. Thank you in advance for ALL of your support!

If you have questions about the fundraiser, plesae contact Mrs. Yackovich ([email protected]).

Cell Phone Policy 23-24

As many of you know our cell phone policy has changed.  In the past, students carried their phones with them throughout the day and placed them in caddies in classrooms when they entered.  This year, cell phones will remain in student lockers during the school day.  Cell phones will not be used in class, during study hall, or during lunch.  Students may check their cell phones between class changes.  During the end of the day PLT, students are permitted to use their cell phones.  

We instituted this change based on disruptions to the learning environment and social media bullying during the day, but mainly for socialization.  Kids need to learn to communicate with each other, it is that simple.  I have to admit lunch times are much noisier than the recent past, but this is a good thing.  Kids are talking with each other and interacting, not just sitting by each other scrolling on their phones.

Instagram

Please follow our Penn Middle Instagram page. Instagram is a free social media platform where we share photos, videos, and happenings at Penn Middle to connect school to home. Here is the link to our page:

Penn Middle Insta

PTARC Travel Basketball Tryouts for grades 3-8 will take place September 30  - Please go to the PM Parent Info Page and find the Travel Basketball Tryout Link for more information.  Numerous opportunities for students are listed on this page and regularly update, please check often.

Upcoming Events

September 1 - Student Council Fundraiser - Cherrydale Kickoff

September 4 - No School Labor Day

September 7 - Teen Savers

September 13 - Picture Day

September 18 - 22 - Spirit Week

• Monday - Teal day

• Tuesday - Army/Camo day

• Wednesday - America day

• Thursday - Teachers dress like students and students dress like teachers day

• Friday - Whiteout/Hat day with Pep Rally Assembly 

September 20 - PTO Meeting 7pm in Library

September 25-27 - Club Sign-ups

September 26 - Midpoint of Quarter 1

October 2 - Custodian Appreciation Day

October 4 - "You’ve Got a Friend" Field Trip

October 5 - Teen Savers

October 18 - PTO Meeting 7pm in Library

October 19 - Student Council Assembly “State of Me”

October 27 - End of Quarter 1

Thank you for taking time to be updated on Amanda's school life.  Please contact me with any questions or concerns.

Jim Simpson

[email protected]

724-744-4431

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Hello to all Students, Parents, Family, and Staff,

Today is the last day of July, once August hits tomorrow, we are in full "Back-to School" mode.  There is an incredible building of excitement all throughout the month as we look forward to students coming back to school.  Below are a few items to keep in mind.

Student Schedules

Schedules go "live" on Thursday August 10th at 4pm.  Parents and Students can log into Powerschool on this day and time to view student schedules.   Please know the link is currently disabled and will not be open for access until August 10.

Student Schedule Walk Through

Students can "walk" their schedules on August 14 through 17 from 9am to 3pm.  In order for students to organize their lockers during this week, we will send out an email with Emily's locker number on August 10.  

Orientation and Open House

6th-grade Orientation is Thursday August 17th at 6pm in our Auditorium.  The orientation will consist of two 45 minute sessions.  For the first session, both students and parents will be in the auditorium.  For the second session, students will take a tour and parents will remain in the audtiorium.  We request only parents/guardians and the new 6th-graders attend, siblings should stay at home.

If you are on vacation on the 17th, a make-up orientation will be held at 4pm on Tuesday August 22nd in our LIbrary.

Open House is Monday August 21st at 6pm.  Open House is a parent only session, no students should attend.  Parents/Guardians will travel their child's schedule meeting with teachers and learning about their classroom.

Suggested Supplies List - please go to this link to view suggested supplies for the 2023-2024 school year.

Fall Sports Information

Please contact the coach via email if you have any questions.

• 7/8 Cross Country
  • Practice starts Monday, 8/28 after school. Practice will be at the middle schools Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. On Tuesday, shuttles will take kids to Bushy Run Battlefield and pickup will be from there. No practice Fridays. 
  • Coaches Eric Reger ([email protected]) and Somer Green ([email protected])
• 7/8 Football @ Penn Middle School
  • Mandatory Heat Week
  • Monday, Aug 14-Wed Aug 16 - 8am-11am
  • Thursday, Aug. 17 and Friday Aug. 18 - 8am-10:30am
  • Coach Kerry Yacamelli ([email protected])
• 7/8 Boys Soccer
  • Tryouts will begin Tuesday, Aug 15,16,17 at Trafford Middle School from 3:30-5:00 pm.
  • All practices will be at TMS.
  • Coach John Carlisle ([email protected])
• 7/8 Girls Soccer
  • MS Girls soccer tryouts will be Wednesday, 8/15 (3:30-5), 8/16 (3-4) and 8/17 (3:30-5).
  • All practices will be at TMS.
  • Coach Kellie Walker ([email protected])
• 7/8 Swimming
  • Begins Tuesday, September 5 at 4pm–HS Pool–MS Shuttle provided (Drop Only)
  • Coach Dave Babik ([email protected])
• 7/8 Girls Basketball
  • Begins Monday, October 2
  • Site and times TBD

Please email me at [email protected] with any questions you might have.

Thank you,

Jim Simpson

Principal