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Dear Northley Families,
As we move through December, Northley continues to feel like a place full of purpose, momentum, and pride. Our students are balancing hard work with school spirit, and our staff is keeping the building moving with care and consistency. Below are updates on recent accomplishments, student celebrations, upcoming events, and a few reminders to help close out the month strong.
A Moment Worth Celebrating
On behalf of the PA Don Eichhorn Schools to Watch Program, we are proud to share some outstanding news. Northley Middle School has been re-designated as a Pennsylvania Don Eichhorn School to Watch for the 2025–26 school year. This recognition places Northley among a very select group. Only 39 active Schools to Watch exist in Pennsylvania, with just over 700 nationwide.
As a re-designated School to Watch, Northley will welcome educators from across the state who want to see firsthand what a high-performing middle grades school looks like while continuing to push forward. The visitation team was impressed by both the strong programs already in place and the new initiatives added since the last review. While every school looks different and serves unique student needs, the team shared a common takeaway. Northley is one of those special places where you immediately feel the culture, the purpose, and the care.
Holiday Spirit at Northley Middle School
The holiday season brought a lot of energy and fun to Northley, thanks to our staff and students. Please watch a special message from the Northley Staff to all of our Northley families.
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from Northley Middle School
Holiday Fun Around the Building
Our Northley elf is still roaming the building, keeping students on their toes and adding a little extra holiday cheer. Each morning, students are on the lookout for his latest hiding spot as we count down to winter break.
Undercover Spirit Week
We wrapped up an Undercover Spirit Week that had everyone paying attention. Students were challenged to guess the daily teacher themes throughout the week. They submitted their guesses, compared notes with friends, and some walked away with prizes.
The themes kept things light and creative.
- Monday kicked off with Hibernation Day.
- Tuesday followed with Vest Day Ever.
- Wednesday turned heads with Anything But a Cup.
- Thursday brought us back with 67 Day.
- Friday closed it out strong with Denim on Denim.
Student Council Spirit Week: December 15–19
- Monday December15: Holiday Movie Character
- Tuesday December 16: Candy Cane Day
- Wednesday December 17: Elf Day
- Thursday December 18: Holiday Hat and Sock Day
- Friday December 19: Ugly Sweater Day
Students are encouraged to participate and have some fun with it.
8th Grade Winter Formal
Our 8th Grade Winter Formal was a great night for our students. They arrived dressed to impress and represented Northley with pride. The decorations truly transformed the space, and it was clear how much care went into every detail.
A sincere thank you to our parent volunteers who helped plan, decorate, and support the event. Your time and effort made the evening special, and our students noticed. It was also great to see how well the students carried themselves throughout the night. They cleaned up nicely and made it an event to remember.
Benchmark Assessments
Benchmark assessments are now complete. Over three days, students worked hard across ELA, math, and science. Their focus and effort were evident throughout the testing window, and the results will help guide instruction as we move forward.
November Students of the Month
Each month, we highlight students who show the habits and behaviors we teach through our Leader in Me program. These traits help students build responsibility, make steady choices, and develop the skills they need to be successful in school and beyond.
For November, we focused on the habit Put First Things First, which centers on coming prepared, staying focused, and using time wisely. Our honorees showed this through their daily actions and the way they approach their work.
Congratulations to our November Students of the Month:
Nicholas L., Emma H., Sean T., Riley L., Lexi Y., Brayden B., Alyssa R., Vincent P., and Fallon D.
Winter Concert: Tuesday, December 16
Our music department is ready to showcase the hard work students have put in this season. Families are welcome to come out and support our musicians. It’s always one of the nicest nights of the year.
Bullying Prevention Laser Show: December 18
Northley will host Prismatic Magic’s Bullying Prevention Laser Assembly during each student’s block period. The show uses laser lights, music, and animation to teach themes of kindness, respect, and positive choices in a way that connects with middle school students. Each student will receive a glow bracelet as part of the experience.
You can use the links below to see brief sample videos that show the style of the program.
BULLYING PREVENTION Trailer
If you prefer that your child not participate, please email me directly at jshivone@pdsd.org.
We’re excited to bring this experience to our kids.
Skyward Grade Check
We’re about five weeks into the second quarter. Please take a moment to check Skyward and make sure students are staying on top of assignments. A quick reminder from home helps keep them on track.
Winter Sports Season
Winter athletics are about to begin. Please remind student athletes to keep their grades steady, meet deadlines, and communicate with teachers if they fall behind. Academic eligibility connects directly to participation.
For spectators, we ask for the same expectations we hold during the school day. Be respectful, stay positive, and remember that our gym represents our community. Good sportsmanship matters on both sides of the bleachers.
In School Dental Program
Penn-Delco is partnering with The Smile Program: My School Dentist to offer in-school dental care on February 19, 2026, here at Northley Middle School.
Pennsylvania requires dental exams for students in grades K/1, 3, and 7. This option is available to any student in those grades who has not submitted proof of a dental exam within the past year. If a student in another grade needs an exam, they may participate as well.
The program provides:
- Comprehensive exams, x-rays, cleanings, fluoride, and sealants
- Restorative care, such as fillings when needed
- Services at little or no cost (all insurance accepted, including Medicaid and CHIP, with low-cost self-pay available)
Regular dental care helps reduce the risk of early tooth loss, gum issues, heart disease, and speech development concerns.
Students from all elementary schools will be transported to Northley for their appointments. Parents are welcome to attend and may bring their child themselves if they prefer.
Pre-registration is required. Families may register online or complete the paper form and return it to school by January 31.
After-School Activities
We’ve updated our list of current clubs and activities happening after school. Northley offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved and explore new interests. For this dates of meeting please click here: Activity Schedule
After-School Academic Support
This program offers students additional help with assignments, challenging concepts, and key skills in a supportive environment. Teachers and counselors will identify students who would benefit and contact families directly. If you have any concerns, please check with your grade level counselor
Student Drop-Off Reminder
Forgotten items can be dropped off on the table in the vestibule. Please make sure everything is clearly labeled with your child’s name so we can get items to them quickly without interrupting classes.
Nutrition at NMS
Every student at Northley has access to free breakfast each school day, except on half days. A good breakfast helps students stay focused and ready to learn. If you believe your family may
qualify for free or reduced lunch and haven’t yet applied, please visit the Food Services page on our district website. Directions for how to apply can be found there. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to your child’s grade-level counselor for support.
Positive Office Referrals
Our students continue to impress us with their respect, responsibility, and kindness. Through Positive Office Referrals, we recognize students for choices that reflect true Northley pride. Every positive action helps build the culture we’re proud of.
Walking to School Reminder
Safety always comes first. Please remind your child to use crosswalks and sidewalks when walking to and from school. Students from Brookhaven and Parkside should not walk or bike due to limited sidewalks. Thank you for helping us keep every student safe.
Lost& Found
Our cafeteria lost and found is filling up quickly with jackets, water bottles, and sweatshirts. Please remind your child to check it soon before items are donated.
Safe2Say Something
The Safe2Say Something program remains an essential tool for maintaining school safety. It allows students to confidentially report concerns or seek help for others. Please remind your child that using Safe2Say shows leadership and care for their peers. [Safe2Say Link]
Thank you for your continued partnership and support. The work happening each day at Northley is a shared effort between students, staff, and families, and it shows. As we head into the final stretch before winter break, we appreciate everything you do to reinforce expectations, celebrate successes, and stay connected to our school community. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need support.
If you have questions about anything in this newsletter, reach out anytime.
Justin Shivone
Principal, Northley Middle School
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