Northley Middle School

Weekly Newsletter

March 13th, 2026

Northley families,


There is a lot happening at Northley as we head further into March. Below are several updates, celebrations, and upcoming events happening across our school community.


PTL Cash Bingo Fundraiser

Northley PTL is hosting its Cash Bingo Fundraiser is TONIGHT at the Brookhaven Community Center. Doors open at 6:00 PM and games begin at 7:00 PM. 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. This event sells out every year, and all proceeds benefit the Northley Class of 2026.


End of Marking Period Approaching

The end of the marking period is quickly approaching. The final day of the marking period is March 27. Please take time to check Skyward and Schoology to review your child’s academic progress. If you have questions or concerns, reach out to your child’s teacher.


Your Voice Matters: Leader in Me Family Survey

We are continuing our work with the Leader in Me program, which focuses on building leadership and life skills in our students. As part of this process, we are asking families to complete a short, anonymous survey to help us understand what is working well and where we can continue to improve. The survey takes about 12 minutes and we encourage one response per household.


Family Survey: https://www.leaderinme.com/s/northley-middle-school/families


Students will also complete the survey next month. If you prefer that your child does not participate, please complete the Leader in Me Survey Opt Out.



Read Across America Week - Caught Reading Winners!

During Read Across America Week, students across the building were “caught reading” throughout the day. Staff members recognized students who were engaged in reading, and several names were randomly selected in each grade level to win a pizza party celebration. We’re proud of the many students who helped make reading visible throughout the week.


  • 6th Grade Winners:
  • Mason B., David P., Olli F., Naomi H., Bryan L., Jimmy M., Eliza W., Tracy C.
  • 7th Grade Winners:
  • Haylee V., Callie H., John T., Eryn L., Annabella H., Layla H., Paislee K., Nico N.
  • 8th Grade Winners:
  • Maggie B., Jameson L., Mia D., Zoey D., Annabelle B., Alinna B., Ember A., Rita K.


Women’s History Month

Throughout March, Northley is recognizing Women’s History Month with daily announcements highlighting influential women in American history. In addition, some of our social studies classes are creating collaborative murals that showcase women who have made lasting impacts in areas such as government, science, civil rights, sports, and the arts. These activities help students learn about the contributions and leadership of women who have helped shape our country.


Northley Café

Mrs. Kikut and Mrs. Roche’s classes recently ran the Northley Café, where students had the opportunity to practice real world job and life skills. Students helped set up the café, prepared items, and took on different roles to keep things running smoothly throughout the morning. The café featured a variety of treats including Leprechaun Munch, Shamrock Shake pudding cups, iced tea, coffee, and candy. It was a great experience for students to practice responsibility, teamwork, and customer service while serving members of the school community.


6th Grade Partnership Activity

Yesterday, our 6th grade Partnership students worked together to build leprechaun traps as part of a fun, hands-on activity. Students shared ideas, helped one another with their designs, and showed great teamwork throughout the process. It was great to see students collaborating, supporting each other, and bringing their creativity to life while building their traps. Activities like this help strengthen connections and continue building a positive, inclusive school community.


March Madness Homeroom Competition

Later this month, Northley will kick off our March Madness Homeroom Competition to build school spirit and encourage teamwork across grade levels.


Key Dates

  • March 16 – Reveal Day
  • Each homeroom will learn which NCAA tournament team they represent.
  • March 17 – Door Decorating and Bracket Activities
  • Students will return to homeroom during block period to decorate their classroom door and create tournament brackets.
  • March 18 – April 6 – March Madness Competition
  • As teams advance through the NCAA tournament, homerooms representing those teams will continue in the competition. A whole-school bracket will be displayed so students can track the progress.

The last homeroom still standing will be crowned the winner.


Yearbooks

Yearbook sale flyers went home with students this week. Yearbooks are $20 and must be purchased online by May 15. In-person cash purchases will only be available on the last day of school. If you have questions, please reach out to Mrs. Blaisse at dblaisse@pdsd.org.



You can purchase at this link: https://www.barksdalestorefront.com/shop/


Please save your receipt from Barksdale in case there are any questions.


World Down Syndrome Day

Penn Delco School District will celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on Friday, March 20 by rocking our crazy, mismatched socks. Wearing bold and colorful socks is a fun way to spark conversations and raise awareness about Down syndrome. Socks were chosen because they resemble chromosomes, and on 3/21 we recognize the three copies of the 21st chromosome that individuals with Down syndrome have.


To help raise awareness and show our support, Down syndrome themed items will be on sale during all lunches from March 16 through March 20. Proceeds will go toward supporting the local Delaware County Down Syndrome Interest Group (www.DelcoDSIG.org).


We also encourage our families and community members to keep the celebration going by wearing crazy socks again on Saturday, March 21, the official World Down Syndrome Day.


Thank you for helping us spread awareness, promote inclusion, and celebrate the abilities and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome.


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 will be celebrating them next week with our Student of the Month Breakfast!


Free YMCA Membership for 7th Graders

Great news for our 7th grade families. Local YMCA locations are offering free memberships for all 7th grade students for the entire year. This is a great opportunity for students to stay active, get involved in positive activities, and connect with their community. Signing up is simple. Students can bring their 7th grade roster, report card, or student ID along with a parent or guardian to any participating YMCA location to register.


5th Grade Parent Information Night

Families of incoming 6th graders are invited to join us for 5th Grade Parent Information Night on Thursday, March 26 from 6:00–7:00 PM at Northley Middle School. This evening is designed to help families learn more about the transition to middle school. We’ll walk through what students can expect academically, explain schedules and grading, and share information about supports, activities, and opportunities available at Northley.


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 7th grade will be taking a field trip on Thursday, May 28th. 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.


8th Grade Parents only - Early Enrollment Discount for the Ireland and the UK Tour Ends Soon!


A reminder that the $200 early enrollment discount for the Ireland and UK tour (Summer 2028) ends Friday, March 13 at midnight. We only have 15 spots available, and several have already been claimed. Students will visit Belfast, Derry, Edinburgh, and London and see major landmarks including Edinburgh Castle, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace.


Enroll here: www.eftours.com/2938602TC


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]

 

As always, thank you for your continued support of Northley Middle School. Working together helps us create a strong school community where students can learn, grow, and succeed. If you ever have questions or need support, please do not hesitate to reach out.


Justin Shivone

Principal

Northley Middle School 

Attendance Matters

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

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!

PTL Updates

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

  • 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


Next Meeting in School Library – 4/8/25 – 2nd Wednesday due to Spring break!


Noteworthy Dates

  • Friday, March 20 - Rock your socks Day!
  • Thursday, March 26 – 5th Grade Parent Night
  • Friday, March 27 - Career Day
  • Friday, March 27 - End of 3 quarter
  • Monday March 30th - April 6th - NO SCHOOL
  • Tuesday April 7th - Return from Spring Break
  • Tuesday April 21st - ELA PSSA
  • Wednesday April 22nd - ELA PSSA
  • Thursday April 23rd - ELA PSSA
  • Tuesday April 28th - MATH PSSA
  • Wednesday April 29th - MATH PSSA
  • Thursday April 30th - SCIENCE PSSA (8TH ONLY)
  • Friday May 1st - SCIENCE PSSA (8TH ONLY)

School Counselors

Join Team Penn-Delco

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.

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