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Dear North Penn Community,
Welcome to the 2023-2024 school year! I enjoyed visiting our schools over the past few weeks, welcoming students and chatting with staff. The smiles and enthusiasm were infectious as everyone ensured that we were off to a good start. Everyone, that is, other than…the weather!
Because of high temperatures during the second week of classes, our middle school students, families and staff did not have ideal conditions in their schools. Unfortunately, these buildings are not fully air conditioned, but do have relief in certain areas. For these buildings, we decided to move to hybrid instruction and early dismissals. We have the technology and skills in place to swiftly and effectively switch learning formats when needed. The daytime outdoor temperature is not the only factor when deciding to pivot due to heat. The nighttime temperatures, humidity, and duration of the heat are all considered in the process.
There were also other buildings with spaces that were uncomfortable. This is the reality of what this time of year is like combined with the age and condition of some of our buildings. NPSD has a 10-year capital plan to address many of the concerns. However, some of the needs, such as air conditioning at the middle schools, need to wait until after renovations to NPHS are complete. Whether the high school is re-imagined (option 1) to include 9th grade or refurbished (option 2), our middle schools also need major renovations, and any air conditioning installed now would be destroyed in the process at a loss in excess of $30 million.
It is very important that the North Penn community is engaged in the conversations around the NPHS renovations and all of the challenges before us. I continue to encourage you to look to the Re-Imagine website to stay informed.
Next week, the third week of school, temperatures are forecasted to cool off but the action in our schools figuratively heats up! From Back to School Nights to Fall Festivals to Home and School Meetings, it’s a busy time for our families and staff. And don’t forget, our talented middle school combined chorus is performing at a Phillies game on Saturday, September 23rd. There are still seats available to cheer on the Phillies and our students! If you or someone you know is interested, click here.
Take Care,
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