Northley families,

There’s a lot happening right now at Northley, and it’s all the good kind of busy. Even with the Blizzard of 2026 throwing off our routine for a minute, our students and staff didn’t miss a beat. That says a lot about who we are and how we operate. Here’s what’s been going on and what’s coming up.

Blizzard of 2026

We kicked off the week with the Blizzard of 2026. Snow days always shake up the routine a bit, but our families and staff handled it well. I appreciate everyone rolling with it and making sure students stayed connected.

February Student of the Month – Synergize

Our February Leader in Me focus was Synergize. It’s about teamwork. Listening. Respecting different strengths. Understanding that we’re better together than we are alone. These students live that out. They work well in groups. They step in to help classmates. They bring positive energy to their teams.

Congratulations to:

Sophia K., Damian S., Julianna P., Caroline B. Paislee K.,

Dylan P., Cheryl E., Alex P., Ritika R.

We’re proud of you. You make our school better.

Read Across America Week

Next week we celebrate Read Across America Week, and we’re looking forward to it.

Spirit Themes:

• Monday, March 2nd: Wear any sports team attire
• Tuesday, March 3rd: Wear a shirt from somewhere you’ve been
• Wednesday, March 4th: Wear a hat
• Thursday, March 5th: Wear pajamas or comfy clothes
• Friday, March 6th: Wear bright colors

We’ll share quick literacy facts during morning announcements and post short slides in homeroom to keep reading front and center.

We’re also bringing back Caught Reading. If students are reading in the cafeteria or during homeroom once classwork is finished, staff can submit their names. We’ll randomly select winners for a pizza party.

It’s simple. It’s fun. And it keeps the focus where it belongs.

Spring Book Fair. February 27 through March 6

Our Spring Book Fair will run from February 27 through March 6. This is a great opportunity for students to explore new books, build personal libraries, and strengthen their connection to reading. Additional details will be shared as the dates approach.

•  Book Fair Homepage – Access book previews, general info, and more!
•  Digital Book Flyer
•  eWallet Set Up – Set it up ahead of time to make purchasing book at the fair easier!
•  Share the Fair – Help Kids Get Books

Schools to Watch Recognition

Northley was recognized once again as a Schools to Watch campus at the 2026 state conference in King of Prussia. This is our fourth time earning this distinction.

Mrs. Armbruster, Ms. Dwyer, and I were there representing our school, but this recognition belongs to every teacher, staff member, student, and family. The work happening here every day is what makes this possible.

Four times. That says something.

Northley Cheer – 1st Place

Northley Competition Cheer brought home 1st place in Middle School Game Day at Ches-Monts last week.

That doesn’t happen by accident. It takes discipline, preparation, and real teamwork.

We’re proud of how they compete and how they represent Northley.

Grade Level Meetings

Next week we’ll hold grade level meetings to reset and reinforce expectations around behavior, attendance, and academics.

Clear expectations matter. Consistency matters. When students know the standard, they rise to it.

Northley PTL Discount Card Fundraiser

Once again, Northley Middle School is selling discount cards valid April 2026 through March 2027.

Our discount card program helps you save money while supporting local businesses and our school. Order one for yourself, family, or friends.

Each card is $20, and 100% of the proceeds support Northley Middle School.

Spring Sports Ahead

Spring sports are right around the corner. Students should be on the lookout for upcoming information sessions hosted by coaches. If you have questions, please reach out to our Athletic Director, Mrs. Genovese, for details.

Readers Are Leaders. Schoolwide Reading Reset

We are seeing the effects of increased screen time on student focus, stamina, and reading fluency. When reading time decreases, it impacts learning across all subject areas, not just English Language Arts.

Beginning February 9, we are resetting expectations around reading across the building.

• Students will read during homeroom as a daily routine.
• Reading will be the expectation when students finish classwork early.
• Staff may use quick, informal “Book Up in the Air” checks to reinforce habits.
• Short Stop, Drop, and Read moments will be built into the week.
• Light incentives will support engagement, including
• Bingo Bookmarks and small rewards for completed books.

8th Grade Hershey Park Field Trip Reminder:

Permission slips have been distributed in class! Please return the signed slip and payment no later than Friday, May 1st. For full trip details, including itinerary and pricing, please visit the "Class of" Schoology page.

7th Grade Field Trip - More info to follow!

The 7^th grade will be taking a field trip on Thursday, May 28^th. More information will follow. Be on the lookout for a permission slip which will be sent home soon!

6th Grade Field Trip – Treehouse World

Our 6th graders are heading to Treehouse World this June. Blue Team will attend on June 3, and Gold Team on June 4. The cost is $30.

Permission slips were sent home February 27 and are due March 20. More details are available on the Class of 2032 page.

PTL Cash Bingo Fundraiser

Northley PTL is hosting its Cash Bingo Fundraiser on Friday, March 13, 2026 at the Brookhaven Community Center. Doors open at 6:00 PM and games begin at 7:00 PM. This is a 21 and over event, so grab your friends and make it a night out.

We’ll play 10 rounds of bingo, plus there will be raffle baskets and a 50/50.

Tickets are $35 in advance or $40 at the door if seats are still available. Tables seat 8 people, and you can reserve a full table for $280. A limited number of VIP tables are also available for $500. VIP tables seat 10, include two bottled beverage choices for the table, two bingo cards per person, and early entry at 5:45 PM.

This event sells out every year, and all proceeds benefit the Northley Class of 2026. More details, including payment information and registration, can be found on the flyer.

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]

This is the part of the year where focus matters. Habits matter. Showing up every day ready to work matters.

We’re proud of what our students are doing, and we’re grateful for the partnership we have with you at home. When school and family stay aligned, students win.

Justin Shivone

Principal, Northley Middle School

We all want our kids to feel confident in school, and one of the biggest ways to help is simply making sure they’re here each day. Middle school moves quickly. When students miss class, even a day or two a month, they start to fall behind without realizing it.

Research shows that missing more than 10 percent of the school year (about two days a month) can lead to lower grades, gaps in learning, and a tougher transition into high school. Kids learn best when they’re in the room, hearing the lesson, asking questions, and staying connected with their classmates.

Regular attendance also helps with confidence. When students are here every day, they settle into routines, keep up with their work, and feel more comfortable walking into each class.

We know life happens. Kids get sick, families have appointments, and things pop up that can’t be avoided. All we ask is that, whenever possible, you help your child be in school every day. It really does make a difference.



If your family ever needs support with attendance, please reach out. We’re here to help.

Leader in Me at Northley

Northley is proud to be a Leader in Me school—a program that helps students build confidence, develop leadership skills, and learn how to make a difference in their community. It’s not just about what happens in the classroom; it’s about shaping responsible, capable young leaders who understand that every choice they make matters.

Our staff continues to weave the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People into daily routines, lessons, and conversations. Whether it’s being proactive, setting goals, or working together, these habits are helping students take ownership of their learning and their behavior.

The 7 Habits and What They Look Like in Students

1. Be Proactive: takes responsibility for actions, stays positive, and makes good choices without being told
2. Begin with the End in Mind :Sets goals, plans ahead, and follows through.
3. Put First Things First: Focuses on what’s most important and manages time  wisely.
4. Think Win-Win: Looks for solutions where everyone benefits and treats others fairly.
5. Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood: Listens carefully to others and communicates respectfully.
6. Synergize: Works well in groups, values others’ strengths, and contributes to team  success.
7. Sharpen the Saw: Balances work and well-being by taking care of body, mind, and heart.

Student Lighthouse Team

We’re proud to announce the members of Northley’s Student Lighthouse Team for the 2025–2026 school year. These students were selected for showing leadership, responsibility, and a commitment to improving our school community.

The team will meet throughout the year to share student perspectives, help plan schoolwide events, and support initiatives that strengthen our Viking Vision of being Ready, Respectful, and Responsible.

Congratulations to the following students:

Jolie Z., Kierra S., Jimmy W., Emily M., Nick L., Victoria G., Annika D., Madison H., Paislee K., Abby A., Connor S., Dominic P., Eryk W., Josiah J., Katie M., Peyton F., and Vincent V.

We’re excited to see their leadership in action this year!

Our PTL continues to do an outstanding job supporting school events, activities, and staff appreciation efforts. This month, they’re hard at work planning several exciting upcoming events, including the 8th Grade Winter Formal, the 8th Grade Breakfast in December, Bingo Night, and the Spring Formal later this year.

If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please email northleymsptl@gmail.com and follow Northley PTL on Facebook (@Northley PTL) for updates, reminders, and volunteer opportunities.

8th Grade Events

• Bingo Night is scheduled for March 13.
• The Spring Formal will be held on May 15 at The Phoenix Ballroom.
• The 8th Grade Breakfast is scheduled for June 11 at The Phoenix Ballroom.
• Details regarding the Moving Up Ceremony will be shared as plans are finalized, but save the date of June 11 at 1pm.

Looking Ahead

• School Counselor Week: February 2–6
• 5th Grade Parent Night: March 26
• April: Administrative Day and School Bus Drivers Day
• May: School Principal Day, Cafeteria Workers Day, School Nurse Day, and Teacher Appreciation Week

The next PTL meeting will take place on March 4 in the school library.

• February 27–March 6 – Spring Book Fair
• March 2 - March 6 - Spirit Week
• Wednesday, March 4 – PTL Meeting, School Library
• Friday, March 13 – 8th Grade Bingo Night
• Friday, March 20 - Rock your socks Day!
• Thursday, March 26 – 5th Grade Parent Night
• Friday, March 27 - Career Day

We Want YOU to Join Team Penn-Delco! The school district is hiring paraprofessionals (new rates!), bus drivers, bus aides, and more. Positions are listed on our job board by location.

Don't miss this opportunity to make a different in the lives of our students while enjoying competitive compensation.