December 18, 2024

Dear Pennsbury Families,

We are aware of the arrest of a Bensalem resident who was charged with a number of offenses related to alleged improper conduct related to a minor. It is our understanding that this individual claimed to be a coach and assistant athletic director for Pennsbury High School. This is not true.

It is our understanding that this individual is a Pennsbury High School graduate, and that he served as a “ball boy” during his time as a student several decades ago, and occasionally after his graduation for several teams, including football, baseball, girl’s soccer, and basketball. We reiterate that this individual has never been employed by the Pennsbury School District, or served as a coach or assistant athletic director.

It is our understanding this individual has not been affiliated with the Pennsbury School District in any capacity since at least 2009. ​ This individual is not permitted on any district properties or at any district activity. We have no information to suggest any Pennsbury students were involved in this case.

This is an ongoing criminal matter that is being handled by the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office, and we do not have any further details at this time. Please direct any questions regarding the matter to the Bensalem Township Police Department or the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office.

Sincerely,

Thomas A. Smith Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
tsmith@pennsburysd.org
215-428-4111

Dear Pennsbury School Community,

The recent cold weather reminds us that winter weather will soon be upon us, bringing possible school closures, delayed openings and/or early dismissals. I would like to walk you through the process of how we make those decisions. 

How is a weather-related closing or delay decision made?

In the very early hours of the morning, we study weather forecasts and conditions in the community and confer with area superintendents. The final decision rests on my shoulders with advice from our Directors of Facilities and Transportation, the local emergency services personnel, and other key administrators. There are numerous factors to consider with the safety of students and staff at the top of the list. 

NEW THIS YEAR: All weather-related closures will be remote learning days.  In an effort to end the school year as early as possible, the calendar committee recommended that we move to remote learning days for all weather-related closures.  Remote learning days count toward the 180 instructional days required by the State. 

Please click here to review detailed information on Remote Learning Days for elementary, middle, and high school students.  Please bookmark the Remote Learning Days website for easy reference.

How do I know if we are moving to remote learning?

• If a storm is forecast, we will issue a Remote Learning Advisory so staff and families can prepare.  This will include elementary students being sent home with Chromebooks. 

• PLEASE NOTE: If a storm is forecast on Sunday night or Monday morning, we will issue a Remote Learning Advisory on Friday just to be prepared.

• Elementary families should have received a packet of work at their Fall Parent Conferences to use in case of a power or internet outage.

How will we inform families about a weather decision? 

• The decision to close schools or have a delayed opening will be made no later than 5:30 a.m. An early dismissal must be determined prior to 10:00 a.m. 

• As in the past, we will notify families of a school closing, delay, or early dismissal by phone. This communication will occur between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m. for a closing and by 10:00 a.m. for an early dismissal. Families will receive a phone call, email notification, and text message (if opted in).

• Families will receive notifications using the contact information listed in PowerSchool.

• Closure or delay information will also be placed on the district website, Facebook, and Instagram.  

• Whenever possible, we will decide the night before a weather emergency.  In those cases, communication will be sent before 10:00 p.m. 

As we prepare for the season of ice, snow, and cold, and the challenges that winter weather brings, thank you in advance for your patience and understanding. This time of year also provides a great opportunity to attend one of our many school performances. You can find the District activity schedule here.

Sincerely,

Thomas A. Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
tsmith@pennsburysd.org
215-428-4111

Remember: Have a question about Pennsbury? Don’t trust the rumors. Ask Penny, and we will get you the answer: askpenny@pennsburysd.org or 215 -428-4000 x “Penny” (73669).

November 7, 2024

Dear Pennsbury School Community,

I hope you are finding PSD Family Updates useful. This weekly update is designed to de-clutter your inbox and summarize non-emergency PSD information. In the event of an emergency, we will communicate with families in as timely a manner as possible. On occasion, you may receive individual emails on certain topics. You can expect the PSD Family Update every Thursday as needed. Additionally, if you think you missed an email, please check the District Email archive page on our website. 

REMINDER! No School Friday, November 8, and Monday, November 11
All Pennsbury Schools will be closed on Friday, November 8, for a Grading Day and Monday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day. Each year, on the 11th day of the 11th month, we take time to recognize those who have served to protect us and perpetuate peace through goodwill and mutual understanding between nations. To the veterans who are reading this and/or part of your family, thank you for your service.

NEW! PHS Long Orange Line Marches in LMT Veterans Day Parade
The Pennsbury High School Marching Band, also known as the Long Orange Line, will march in the Lower Makefield Township Veterans Day Parade this Saturday, November 9. The parade will begin at 1pm and run along Edgewood Rd. and will end at the Veterans Square Monument. A ceremony will take place following the end of the parade at Veterans Square.

NEW! Superintendent Community Roundtable Meeting
Parents & community members are encouraged to sign up to participate in Pennsbury’s Superintendent Roundtable discussions. Meetings will be held on the following dates:

• November 20 @ 7pm
• January 15 @ 10am
• March 5 @ 7pm
• May 7 @ 10am

Please RSVP using this link. You will receive a copy of your response and a reminder email a few days before the roundtable. All meetings will be held at the Pennsbury Administration Building located at 134 Yardley Ave., Fallsington, PA, 19054.

REMINDER! Harlem Wizards
The world-famous Harlem Wizards are returning to Pennsbury! Tickets are on sale now! All proceeds from this family-friendly event will benefit the Pennsbury Education Foundation. Check out video from last year’s game!

REMINDER! Pennsbury Community Swap
Swap gently used clothing, toys, and household items at the FREE Pennsbury Community Swap on 11/16/24 at Manor Elementary School. 

Have a wonderful weekend!

Sincerely,

Thomas Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

October 31, 2024

Dear Pennsbury School Community,

I hope you are finding PSD Family Updates useful. This weekly update is designed to de-clutter your inbox and summarize non-emergency PSD information. In the event of an emergency, we will communicate with families in as timely a manner as possible. On occasion, you may receive individual emails on certain topics. You can expect the PSD Family Update every Thursday as needed. Additionally, if you think you missed an email, please check the District Email archive page on our website. 

REMINDER! No School Tomorrow!
All Pennsbury Schools will be closed on Friday, November 1 (offices are open) in recognition of Diwali. Diwali (pronounced Duh Vaa Lee) is one of the major religious festivals in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It is part of a five-day Hindu observance known as the 'Festival of Lights'. Happy Diwali to our families who observe.

REMINDER! No School Tuesday, November 5, and Friday, November 8
All Pennsbury Schools will be closed on Tuesday, November 5, for Election Day and a Teacher Workshop. Schools will also be closed on Friday, November 8, for a Grading Day.

REMINDER! Charles Boehm Craft Show, November 2
The 34th annual Charles Boehm Middle School Craft Show is this Saturday, November 2, from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. This time-honored event features over 140 juried craftspeople and artists! Entrance is $2.00 for adults, and children are free. 

REMINDER! Time to Fall Back to Standard Time
Don’t forget to set your clocks back one hour this weekend. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 

REMINDER! Harlem Wizards
The world-famous Harlem Wizards are returning to Pennsbury! Tickets are on sale now! All proceeds from this family-friendly event will benefit the Pennsbury Education Foundation. Check out video from last year’s game!

REMINDER! Pennsbury Community Swap
Swap gently used clothing, toys, and household items at the FREE Pennsbury Community Swap on 11/16/24 at Manor Elementary School. Please click here to register by November 1.

REMINDER! Pennsbury Parent Academy Presents: Cell Phones in the Classroom
On Monday, October 28, the Pennsbury Parent Academy held a panel discussion about the use of cell phones in the classroom. Panelists included Pennsbury teachers, social workers, administration, high school students, and parents/community members. The discussion focused on both the opportunities and challenges that come with cell phone use in the classroom, including potential distractions, learning benefits, and the significant connection between digital habits and mental health. We look forward to continuing this discussion as we work together to support the success and well-being of our students. Click here to watch the presentation.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Sincerely,

Thomas Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

October 29, 2024

Dear Pennsbury School Community,

I am pleased to invite you to a special meeting of the Pennsbury School Board to review the new high school project. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 7, at 7:00 pm in the Fallsington Elementary School Gymnasium. (134 Yardley Avenue, Fallsington, PA 19054)

During this meeting, the following key topics will be reviewed:

• Building Design: A detailed overview of the proposed design plans for the new high school, including key features and layout.

• Project Timeline: A breakdown of the projected timeline, from initial construction phases to completion.

• Estimated Costs: A presentation of the current cost estimates for the project, covering all major aspects of the build.

Please note:  While this update will review significant progress that has been made, there are still several important steps that must occur before the project can start.  These steps include the Site Sketch Plan review by the township (scheduled for November), the State required Act 34 Hearing (tentatively scheduled for May), and the Board will need to vote to authorize the project to go out to bid (expected to take place next fall).

We value your participation and feedback as we work together toward a project that will serve our community for many years to come.  This meeting will also be livestreamed and recorded.

Previous presentations, FAQs, and project documents are available on the district website under PHS Project Update. 

Thank you for your continued support of the Pennsbury School District.

Sincerely,

Thomas A. Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
tsmith@pennsburysd.org
215-428-4111

October 24, 2024

Dear Pennsbury School Community,

I hope you are finding PSD Family Updates useful. This weekly update is designed to de-clutter your inbox and summarize non-emergency PSD information. In the event of an emergency, we will communicate with families in as timely a manner as possible. You can expect the PSD Family Update every Thursday as needed. Additionally, if you think you missed an email, please check the District Email archive page on our website. 

NEW! Harlem Wizards
The world-famous Harlem Wizards are returning to Pennsbury! Tickets are on sale now! All proceeds from this family-friendly event will benefit the Pennsbury Education Foundation. Check out video from last year’s game!

NEW! Pennsbury Community Swap
Swap gently used clothing, toys, and household items at the FREE Pennsbury Community Swap on 11/16/24 at Manor Elementary School. Please click here to register by November 1.

NEW! PSSA & Keystone Exams Move Online
Beginning this year, the PSSA and Keystone Exams will be given online. Please click here to read “PSSA & Keystone Exams Move Online” on our website.  

Reminder! Pennsbury Parent Academy Presents: Cell Phones in the Classroom
Join us for an important discussion on a topic that touches many aspects of Pennsbury student life: The role of cell phones in the classroom and their impact on student mental health and learning. 

• Date: October 28, 2024
• Time: 7:00 p.m.
• Location: PHS East Auditorium (705 Hood Boulevard in Fairless Hills).
• Livestream: This presentation will also be livestreamed using this link.
• Questions: If you are unable to attend the presentation but have questions you would like addressed, please submit them through this Google Form. Questions may be submitted during the presentation.

Sincerely,

Thomas Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

October 24, 2024

Dear Pennsbury School District Families,

We are writing to inform you of an important update regarding the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) and Keystone Exams. Beginning this school year, the Pennsbury School District will administer these tests online. This change is in accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s plan, which requires all schools to deliver the tests online by the 2025-2026 school year. By implementing this change now, we are proactively preparing our students and ensuring a smooth transition for the future.

The online administration of the PSSA and Keystone Exams offers several advantages, including a more efficient testing process, quicker access to results, and an overall reduction in the use of paper materials. Our goal is to make this transition as seamless as possible for students, families, and staff, and we are committed to providing the necessary support and resources throughout the testing process.

To help prepare for this change, we conducted a successful pilot last year with over 500 students.  We also have convened a planning committee which is comprised of representatives from each level of the District.  We have already taken steps to ensure our technology infrastructure is ready, and our students and staff will have opportunities to become familiar with the online testing platform through practice sessions and classroom activities. 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the online testing process, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s school or our district office.

Sincerely,


Elizabeth. A. Aldridge, Ed.D.
Director of Data, Assessment & Accountability
Pennsbury School District

October 21, 2024

Dear Pennsbury Families,

October 21-25 is designated as National Safe Schools Week. It is also National School Bus Safety Week. This is a time to recognize our successes and continue our focus on securing our schools.

We are fortunate to have over 90 caring and dedicated drivers who transport almost 9,000 students daily. Poor student behavior on our buses has increased recently.  These behaviors are not only dangerous, but they also lengthen the ride time if a driver needs to stop and discipline students. Please help us by speaking to your child about following the bus rules and listening to their bus driver.

Operation Safe Stop

Unfortunately, cars passing Pennsbury School District buses while loading and unloading happens too often. As part of Operation Safe Stop, Pennsbury has contracted with Bus Patrol to install cameras and radios on all district buses to identify cars that violate this important law. 

We appreciate your support of our efforts and the Pennsbury School District. As a reminder, Pennsbury uses Safe2Say, an anonymous tip line, to alert us to any dangerous concerns. Every tip is investigated. 

Sincerely,

October 17, 2024

Dear Pennsbury School Community,

I hope you are finding PSD Family Updates useful. This weekly update is designed to de-clutter your inbox and summarize non-emergency PSD information. In the event of an emergency, we will communicate with families in as timely a manner as possible. You can expect the PSD Family Update every Thursday as needed. Additionally, if you think you missed an email, please check the District Email archive page on our website. 

District Updates for October 17, 2024

NEW! Pennsbury Parent Academy Presents: Cell Phones in the Classroom
Join us for an important discussion on a topic that touches many aspects of Pennsbury student life: The role of cell phones in the classroom and their impact on student mental health and learning. 

• Date: October 28, 2024

• Time: 7:00 p.m. 

• Location: PHS East Auditorium (705 Hood Boulevard in Fairless Hills).

• Livestream: This will also be live streamed using this link.

• Questions: If you are unable to attend the presentation but have questions you would like addressed, please submit them through this Google Form. 

REMINDER! Communications System Test
On October 9, 2024, we held a district-wide communications test to ensure families receive phone calls, emails, and text messages. If you did not receive a phone call, text message, and email, please complete this Google Form. 

REMINDER! PSD Text Messaging
Don’t forget to sign up to receive text messages from the District. Text Y or Yes to 67587 to stay connected. If you don’t sign up, you will not receive text messages. You must sign up from the mobile phone number listed in PowerSchool.

REMINDER! SchoolMessenger Safe Arrival
We are now using Safe Arrival to report student absences. Please click here for more information about attendance in Pennsbury and Safe Arrival.

REMINDER! Pennsbury Community School
Registration is now open for Pennsbury’s Fall Community School! Classes are designed for adults of all skill levels. Spots are limited, so register today!  Click here to view available courses and register.

Sincerely,

Thomas Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

October 16, 2024

Dear Pennsbury Community,

I am pleased to invite you to an important discussion on a topic that touches many aspects of Pennsbury student life: The role of cell phones in the classroom and their impact on student mental health and learning. This event is part of the Pennsbury Parent Academy series and will take place on:

• Date: October 28, 2024
• Time: at 7 p.m. 
• Location: PHS East Auditorium (705 Hood Boulevard in Fairless Hills).
• Livestream: This will also be live streamed using this link.
• Questions: If you are unable to attend the presentation but have questions you would like addressed, please submit them through this Google Form. 

Cell phones have become an integral part of our students’ lives, and serious questions have arisen about their place in the educational setting and their effects on student well-being. This discussion aims to explore both the opportunities and challenges that come with cell phone use in the classroom, including potential distractions, learning benefits, and the significant connection between digital habits and mental health.

We have gathered a group of community stakeholders as panelists for this discussion as we examine how cell phone use, social media, and technology impact students’ ability to focus, their social interactions, and overall emotional well-being. 

We encourage parents, students, teachers, and all members of our school community to attend and contribute to this important conversation.

I hope you will join us for this important discussion as we work together to support the success and well-being of our students.

Sincerely,

Thomas A. Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
tsmith@pennsburysd.org
215-428-4111

October 3, 2024

Dear Pennsbury School Community,

I hope you are finding PSD Family Updates useful. This weekly update is designed to de-clutter your inbox and summarize non-emergency PSD information. In the event of an emergency, we will communicate with families in as timely a manner as possible. You can expect the PSD Family Update every Thursday as needed. Additionally, if you think you missed an email, please check the District Email archive page on our website. 

District Updates for October 3, 2024

NEW! The Long Orange Line to March in Pulaski Day Parade
The Pennsbury High School Marching Band will participate in the 91st annual Philadelphia Pulaski Day Parade this Sunday, October 6. Catch live parade coverage on 6ABC from 12:30 - 2:00 p.m.

REMINDER! Pennsbury Parent Academy Presents: How to Advocate for Your Child at School
Join us for this virtual presentation this Monday, October 7, from 6:30 - 7:00 p.m., as we discuss practical techniques to help you effectively represent your child’s needs & ensure they have strong support to succeed at school. Livestream presentation link.

REMINDER! PHS Project Community Meeting
We will hold a meeting on October 8, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., at the PHS East Auditorium to update the community on the Pennsbury High School Project. Click here for more information about the PHS Project Community Meeting.

REMINDER! Communications System Test
On October 9, 2024, we will hold a district-wide communications test to ensure families receive phone calls, emails, and text messages. We will send additional reminders next week.

REMINDER! PSD Text Messaging
Don’t forget to sign up to receive text messages from the District. Text Y or Yes to 67587 to stay connected. If you don’t sign up, you will not receive text messages. You must sign up from the mobile phone number listed in PowerSchool.

REMINDER! SchoolMessenger Safe Arrival
We are now using Safe Arrival to report student absences. Please click here for more information about attendance in Pennsbury and Safe Arrival.

REMINDER! Pennsbury Community School
Registration is now open for Pennsbury’s Fall Community School! Classes are designed for adults of all skill levels. Spots are limited, so register today!  Click here to view available courses and register.

Happy Rosh Hashanah to our Pennsbury families who celebrate! I hope everyone has an enjoyable extended weekend. 

Sincerely,

Thomas Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

September 26, 2024

Dear Pennsbury Families,

I hope you are having a great week! PSD Family Updates are designed to de-clutter your inbox and summarize non-emergency PSD information. In the event of an emergency, we will communicate with families in as timely a manner as possible. You can expect the PSD Family Update every Thursday as needed. Additionally, if you think you missed an email, please check the District Email archive page on our website. 

District Updates for September 26, 2024

NEW! PHS Project Community Meeting
We will hold a meeting on October 8, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., at the PHS East Auditorium to update the community on the Pennsbury High School Project. Click here for more information about the PHS Project Community Meeting.

NEW! Introduction to MTSS
The Pennsbury School District is working hard to improve educational outcomes for all students. One of the ways we are working to do this is by implementing a framework called the Multi-Tiered System of Support. Click here to read more about MTSS gives schools a structure to meet the academic, behavioral, health, enrichment, and social-emotional needs of all students

NEW! PHS Homecoming
Experience the excitement of homecoming this Saturday as the PHS Falcons host Central Bucks South! Kick-off is at 12:00 p.m. Tickets are $5 each (cash only). Don’t miss the annual crowning of the Royal Court, the PHS Cheerleaders, the Long Orange Line Alumni Band performance, and a special pre-game recognition of the undefeated 1974 Falcons team!

NEW! The Long Orange Line in Bristol
Catch the Pennsbury High School Marching Band in Bristol’s Lafayette Parade this Sunday, September 29. 

NEW! Rosh Hashanah - Schools Closed
A reminder that all PSD schools will be closed October 3 & 4 in observance of Rosh Hashanah

NEW! Pennsbury Parent Academy Presents: How to Advocate for your Child at School
Join us for this virtual presentation Monday, October 7, from 6:30 - 7:00 p.m., as we discuss practical techniques to help you effectively represent your child’s needs & ensure they have strong support to succeed at school. Livestream presentation link.

REMINDER! Communications System Test
On October 9, 2024, we will hold a district-wide communications test to ensure families are receiving phone calls, emails, and text messages.

REMINDER! SchoolMessenger Safe Arrival
We are now using Safe Arrival to report student absences. Please click here for more information about attendance in Pennsbury and Safe Arrival.

REMINDER! PSD Text Messaging
Don’t forget to sign up to receive text messages from the District. Text Y or Yes to 67587 to stay connected!

REMINDER! School Start Times
The Pennsbury School District will adjust school start times for the 2025-2026 school year (next year). We will continue to send reminders and additional information throughout this school year.

REMINDER! Chromebook Fees
Students in grades 5–12 are eligible to participate in the District’s Chromebook program. In order to participate, students are required to pay a yearly fee to cover the protection plan for their Chromebook. Please click here for additional information on how to pay your Chromebook fees.  

REMINDER! Media/Social Media Opt-OUT Form
Please complete the PSD Media/Social Media Opt-OUT form if you do NOT want your child’s photo to appear in any PSD media or social media outreach.

REMINDER! Pennsbury Community School
Registration is now open for Pennsbury’s Fall Community School! Classes are designed for adults of all skill levels. Spots are limited, so register today! Click here to view available courses and register.

Sincerely,

Thomas Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

September 26, 2024

Dear Pennsbury Families,

The Pennsbury School District is working hard to improve educational outcomes for all students. One of the ways we are working to do this is by implementing a framework called the Multi-Tiered System of Support, also called “MTSS”. This framework gives schools a structure to meet the academic, behavioral, health, enrichment, and social-emotional needs of all students.  This email will focus mainly on the academic support we provide. I will share additional information regarding our behavioral, health, enrichment, and social-emotional efforts in a future document.

What is the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS)?

Each fall, we assess our students to identify their strengths and weaknesses, specifically in the areas of Math and Reading/English. Based on those results, classroom instruction may be adjusted to support student needs. Student progress is reviewed during the year to ensure students are receiving the support they need. Depending on the student’s needs, they may receive targeted/intensive support using a Tiered System of Support.  

What is the Tiered System of Support?

Tier 1: Classroom - Using differentiated instructional practices, students receive additional support in their classroom for a challenging math or reading concept. 

Tier 2: Small group - Supplemental support and interventions are delivered via small-group instruction in either the general classroom or during an intervention period. These interventions may be increased in intensity, frequency, and duration based on the student's needs and progress.

Tier 3: Individual, Small Group, or Dedicated class - Intensive support and interventions are delivered individually or in a small group/dedicated class and provided in or outside of the classroom. Interventions may include curricular adaptations and/or targeted supports. Student progress is reviewed throughout the school year (this is known as progress monitoring).

The Mission of Pennsbury is to ensure all students become creative, ethical, and critical thinkers for lifelong success in a global society. We believe implementing the MTSS program across all of our schools will provide the support necessary to ensure that all of our students succeed. 

As a parent/guardian, you are an important part of this process, and we will notify you if your child receives Tier 2 or 3 supports (Tier 1 supports are typically grade-level classroom interventions provided to many students). As always, do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher or building administrator if you have questions or concerns. 

Sincerely,

September 26, 2024

Dear Pennsbury School Community,

Our design work for the new high school has continued over the past several months and I am writing to provide a progress update.

This summer, we provided opportunities for several groups to review draft plans, and meeting attendees provided substantive feedback that we have worked to incorporate into the building design. 

On October 8, we will provide a progress update for any interested member of our school community. The update portion will be recorded and placed on the district website. Here are the meeting details:

• Date:  October 8, 2024

• Time:  6:00 pm 

• Location:  Pennsbury High School East Auditorium (705 Hood Blvd., Fairless Hills)

Questions about the High School Project? 

High School Information is available by clicking on this link:  PHS Project Updates

As I have shared before, we are committed to providing regular updates regarding this exciting project. Please take the opportunity to follow along or join us at one of the design meetings as we embark on this exciting journey for our community.  

I hope you and your family have had a great start to the school year.

Sincerely,
Thomas A. Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
tsmith@pennsburysd.org
215-428-4111