Dear North Penn,
Happy New Year! As we continue to watch COVID cases rise after the holidays and as we adapt to new isolation and quarantine protocols based on Montgomery County guidelines, it may sometimes seem that this pandemic is all about numbers, percentages, tracking, and other strategic measures to mitigate COVID-19. But that is only one side of the story.
COVID-19 is a threat to our school system, the education of our children, and most importantly the health of our students, staff and community members. During the winter break, North Penn lost a middle school teacher, Andy Jenkins, to the virus who was beloved by those he taught and coached during his 15 years at NPSD. Mr. Jenkins is greatly missed by his students and colleagues. I hope that our shared loss will serve to strengthen our resolve to get through this pandemic so that we can return to a more stable and less stressful time for everyone where learning and emotional wellbeing feel more like it did two years ago.
Currently, though, life/home/work/school is challenging. But if the experts are correct, and I pray that they are, we should see relief soon. Cases of COVID-19 should begin to significantly decrease later this month and throughout the spring. Things will get better and closer to “normal.”
Until then, please stay with us. Please continue to be flexible, supportive and understanding. At the same time, be thankful to those working hard every day to keep our schools open and safe.
Sincerely,
Curtis R. Dietrich, Ed.D.
Superintendent
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Important Calendar Changes for January 2022 |
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REMINDER: The North Penn School District has announced the following changes to the 2021-2022 school calendar:
Thursday and Friday, January 20 and 21, 2022: Regular Early Dismissal for all students. At the elementary school level, staff professional development will be provided in various curriculum areas, including math and guidance. At the secondary level, an exam schedule will be implemented. More details regarding the exam schedule will be provided by the building principals. Please note that Extended School Care will be open to students enrolled on these days at the time of the early dismissal.
Thursday, January 27, 2022: The one-hour Early Dismissal for all students previously planned is CANCELLED.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
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NPSD Winter Concert Series |
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Schools across the North Penn School District held their annual winter concerts for band, orchestra, and chorus. The concerts were streamed live from NPTV and are available to watch on the NPTV YouTube channel. Congratulations to all students for another successful concert season! |
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Oak Park Gets a Visit from State Police |
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Nominations Open for Knights of Honor |
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State police officers visited Oak Park Elementary to teach students more about what police offers can do. Students got to watch a helicopter landing, play games, and sit on a motorcycle as part of a community-building effort by the state police. Watch the video on NPTV! |
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Nominations are now being accepted for the North Penn Knights of Honor, Class of 2022. Nominees should be a community member, alumnus, or former staff member. Those honored have made a significant contribution to the school district, community and/or their chosen career, and therefore bring great honor to the NPSD. The submission deadline is 1/31/22. |
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An Eye on Equity
A monthly feature from Dr. Pamula Hart, NPSD Director of Curriculum and Equity
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A Focus on Special Education
Identity: The lens through which we see ourselves and the world views us.
The North Penn Vision for Special Education
The North Penn School District seeks to develop students who are confident, independent, self-advocates who contribute to society in purposeful ways. Through meaningful access to a rigorous curriculum, timely and effective interventions, parental partnerships, and support in a respectful environment, our students with disabilities will meet the high expectations for all.
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Below is a chart depicting the categories of students with disabilities in the North Penn School District, compiled by the NPSD Data Specialist for the Pennsylvania Department of Education. |
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How Do We Meet the Needs of our Learners?
In order to meet the diverse learning profiles of our students, school teams develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) by working collaboratively with parents to set goals, differentiate instructional outcomes, monitor progress and reflect on practices.
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NPSD Schools Participate in MLK Day Service Projects |
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Schools across the district participated in service projects to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. ahead of MLK Day. Clubs and Home & School groups collected clothing, food, and other needed items for those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. Pictured below, the Penndale Middle School Leo Club, Voices of Empowerment, and National Junior Honor Society assembled 151 sock rolls, providing socks and snacks to those experiencing homelessness. |
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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! |
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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!
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