November news & updates
Volume 12 • Issue 3
Upcoming Events
11/24: No School for Students

11/25-11/26: No School for Students; Schools & District Offices Closed

12/1: Regular Early Dismissal - all schools

12/2: End of 1st trimester - elementary

12/20: Report cards on ICPP - elementary

12/24-12/31: No School for Students; Schools & District Offices closed
School Board
View upcoming meeting schedule, how to tune in to meetings and additional resources.
November is Native American Heritage Month, or as it is commonly referred to, American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. The month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. It also provides the opportunity to raise general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.
Dear Community . . .
Dear North Penn Community,

This week we celebrate American Education Week! This is a time when we recognize the importance of public education, school systems and the people who work for and with our institutions for the benefit of our students. Traditionally in NPSD, this meant inviting our parents and community into our schools and showing them first-hand the great education taking place.

Of course, things are a bit different this year and last because of the pandemic. The Bus to the Future that previously transported interested community members from school to school to tour our buildings is on hold until next year. So too are the days set aside for parents to visit and observe their children’s classrooms.

But another important aspect of American Education Week remains constant and that is its purpose to express gratitude to those working in this country’s public schools. From teachers and nurses to principals and custodians, and everything in between, this week is a perfect time for you to say thank you to those serving our students.

And let me be the first to say thank you. Thank you to every single person working in North Penn schools who, with grace and agility, have persevered these last 20 months during the challenges of COVID-19. But I can’t stop there. Public schools can only be successful with the support of parents and community members. North Penn has the best of both and I could not be more proud and grateful.

I encourage everyone to jump on the gratitude bus and thank a public school employee this week for all that they do for students. I can assure you that their work goes above and beyond.

Sincerely,
Curtis R. Dietrich, Ed.D.
Superintendent, NPSD
Learn more about Grand View Health
Learn more about NP ADvantage
Recognition of Local Heroes
North Penn School District held a graduation ceremony for young service personnel who left high school before receiving their diplomas. These heroes were recognized during a ceremony and received a North Penn High School diploma. Thank you for your service Howard Allan Barrick, U.S. Army; David Charles Turner, U.S. Army; Mark T. Linderman, U.S. Marine Corps; and Michael Joseph Roellinghoff, U.S. Navy.
Oak Park Superheroes Stand Up to Bullies
Oak Park Elementary students and staff were encouraged to dress as their favorite superheroes or come as themselves to stand up against bullying. The school received a special visit from Captain America and the PA State Police to raise awareness to help put an end to bullying.
An Eye on Equity
A monthly feature from Dr. Pamula Hart, NPSD Director of Curriculum and Equity
What is Culturally Proficient Teaching?
Identity and culture are central to learning. They shape the way each one of us sees and thinks about the world. Culturally proficient teaching recognizes the importance of including students' cultural references in all aspects of learning and understands the impact of one's own cultural beliefs on teaching practices.
Characteristics of Culturally Proficient Teaching
  • Builds positive relationships between teachers and students
  • Establishes positive perspectives of parents and families
  • Communicates high expectations
  • Learning within the context of culture (identity)
  • Instruction is student-centered 
  • Teacher serves as the facilitator
  • Each student’s culture is reflected in classroom setup and learning environmen
Mirrors are books and experiences that allow students to see themselves and affirm their own identity.
A window is a text or experience that offers a view into the experience of others.
Sliding glass doors provide students with a view into the experiences of others and also allows them to become a part of their world.
Business Leaders Introduce the Future to Pennbrook Middle School Students
Community business leaders from different industries, including pharmaceutical, marketing, sports broadcasting and so much more, spent the day introducing students to their respective fields. Students had the opportunity to meet with several different leaders throughout the day.
NPHS First in the Country to Offer Spatial Computer Program
Teachers and administrators had the opportunity to experience NPHS' new Spatial Computer Program which is being offered to students beginning this school year. Through the class, which is the first of its kind to be offered at the high school level in the country, provides students with a unique opportunity to learn how to design, develop and publish Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) applications. The NPSD Educational Foundation awarded a groundbreaking grant to help make the course offering possible.
You Could Save Up to $585 through NPSD Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program
Are you eligible? Do you know someone who is? Learn more and help us spread the word about this program!
We need your help. Every school district across the state is experiencing a shortage of substitute teachers, which can impact student learning. If you have a four-year degree and enjoy working with children and teens, you can help us by joining the North Penn School District as a substitute teacher!

In addition to paying the highest rate in the county (starting at $180 per day; $170/day for guest teachers; and bonus incentives), we also provide great flexibility regarding daily assignments. You can share your availability and work as it fits your schedule. We will also provide training!
North Penn School District | www.npenn.org