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Dear Northley Families,
As we head into the final stretch before winter break, I want to share a quick look at next week’s schedule and celebrate a lot of great moments from around the building. It’s been a busy, positive week and our students have had a lot to be proud of.
Next Week’s Schedule
- Monday, December 22 – Full Day
- Tuesday, December 23 – Half Day
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
Student of the Month Breakfast
Each month, we recognized students who demonstrated the habits taught through our Leader in Me program. In November, the focus was Put First Things First, highlighting preparation, focus, and wise use of time. Our honorees showed these traits consistently in their daily work. This week, we held a breakfast for our November Students of the Month and their families to celebrate their efforts.
Congratulations to Nicholas L., Emma H., Sean T., Riley L., Lexi Y., Brayden B., Alyssa R., Vincent P., and Fallon D.
Spirit Week Success
Spirit Week was a blast. We had strong participation from students and staff, and the energy in the building was exactly what we want this time of year. Thanks to everyone who jumped in, dressed up, and helped keep it fun.
Lockdown Drill
This week, Northley held a lockdown drill as part of our ongoing commitment to student safety. All students responded appropriately and followed directions well. While these drills are never easy, they are an important part of making sure students and staff know what to do in the event of an emergency.
Kick Cancer Classic Update
A huge thank you to everyone who supported the 2nd Annual Kick Cancer Classic. Our Northley Soccer and Cheer teams, along with the Penn-Delco and Ridley communities, helped raise over $5,000. All proceeds support the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, helping fund pediatric cancer research. This week, a representative from the foundation was on hand and presented with a check, making the impact of our students’ efforts very real and meaningful. Just as important, our students saw what it looks like to rally around a cause bigger than themselves.
Celebrating Benchmark Effort and Achievement
We also took time to celebrate students’ hard work during the recent benchmark assessments. Students who showed strong effort were entered into a drawing, with eight students per grade earning a pizza party. In addition, three students were selected to be Principal for a Day in January: 8th grader Royce W., 7th grader Jordan W., and 6th grader Kasir T. It was a great way to recognize focus, perseverance, and commitment during testing.
Winter Concert Pride
I also want to recognize our student musicians after a terrific Winter Concert. Watching so many Northley students perform on stage was something special. Our band and chorus sounded fantastic. Please join me in thanking Mr. Hazlett and Mrs. Hazlett for the time, care, and high expectations they bring to the Northley music program. Their work continues to elevate our students and our school.
Bullying Prevention Laser Assembly
This week, students participated in Prismatic Magic’s Bullying Prevention Laser Assembly. It was high-energy, student-friendly, and connected directly to the message we push every day: respect, empathy, and treating people the right way even when no one is watching. The combination of music, lasers, and clear messaging really landed well with our middle school audience. Students also received a small glow bracelet as part of the experience.
Thank You, PTL
A big thank you to our PTL for hosting a Holiday Luncheon for our staff. They consistently show up for Northley, and we’re grateful for the partnership. Their support matters, and our staff felt it.
Classroom Spotlight: Math Thinking Task
In 8th grade math class this week, students took on a challenging “Thinking Task” from the Building Thinking Classrooms framework. The goal was to move away from sitting at desks doing isolated problems and instead solve collaboratively, standing and thinking together. Students had to reach five target answers by creating five equations that use every number 1 through 10 exactly once. Each equation had to use two numbers and one operation, and students needed to include addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division across the set. It was the kind of task that pushes real reasoning, not just speed.
7th Grade Science: Cells Under the Microscope
Seventh grade students in Mrs. Sundquist’s classes explored the microscopic world as part of their unit From Cells to Organisms. During their lab, Observing Cells Under the Microscope, students created wet mounts, practiced focusing their microscopes carefully, and made detailed observation drawings. They compared specimens like elodea, spinach, celery, and pond water, helping strengthen their understanding of cell structure and function through hands-on learning.
Annual Holiday Craft Fair
Northley was full of holiday cheer during our Annual Holiday Craft Fair, a tradition that highlights student creativity and real-world skill building. Students created and sold handmade items like ornaments, gifts, and festive decorations while practicing vocational, functional, social, and academic skills.
We were thrilled to welcome visitors from across the district, including members of the 7th Grade Partnership and guests from Parkside Elementary. And yes, Santa made an appearance, which made the day even more memorable.
A special thank you to Mrs. Kikut and Mrs. Roche, our paraprofessional team for their hands-on support, and to Mr. Shivone, Mrs. Verna, and Mrs. Scharrer for helping transform Northley into Santa’s workshop again this year. Thanks to everyone who attended and supported our students.
8th Grade Winter Breakfast (Tuesday, December 23)
Our PTL will be hosting a Winter Breakfast for our 8th grade students on Tuesday. We can’t thank them enough for continuing to create special moments for kids.
6th Grade Swim Party (Monday, December 22)
Sixth grade will be holding a Holiday Swim Party on Monday. It’s a great way to celebrate the season and build community before break.
Spelling Bee Information
We’re excited for students to participate in this year’s Spelling Bee. It’s a great opportunity for students to challenge themselves, build confidence, and celebrate strong spelling skills.
Study lists will be sent home by the end of the day on Friday, December 19. Students should use winter break to study.
- Week of January 5: Classroom spelling bees held in writing classes
- January 22: Building-wide Spelling Bee
- February: Our school winner will represent Northley alongside other county schools
We’re proud of our students for taking on this challenge, and we look forward to celebrating their effort and growth. If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Verna at cverna@pdsd.org.
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]
Thanks for another strong week at Northley. Between classroom learning, student celebrations, and community events, it was a great reminder of what makes this school special. As we head into the break, I’m proud of the effort our students continue to show and grateful for the partnership we have with our families. We look forward to finishing the week strong and returning refreshed in the new year.
If you have questions about anything in this newsletter, reach out anytime.
Justin Shivone
Principal, Northley Middle School
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