Elementary Students Experience Musical Magic with Penn High School Symphonic Orchestra

Fourth and fifth-grade students from Bittersweet, Elm Road, Mary Frank, Meadow’s Edge, and Northpoint elementary schools recently enjoyed a musical demonstration by the Penn High School Symphonic Orchestra. This event offered the elementary students an exciting glimpse into what musical instruments may be in their future.

Penn student describes instrument before playing solo

The demonstration began with a slow, moving piece before transitioning into a showcase of individual instruments. Penn orchestra members lined up at the front of the stage to perform brief solos. Each instrument’s unique sound and appearance were highlighted, sparking curiosity and excitement among the elementary students.

penn teachers dress as star wars characters

The event reached its peak when two Penn teachers brought a thrilling touch of cinematic drama to the stage. Dressed as Princess Leia and Darth Vader from Star Wars, the duo engaged in a light saber battle to the delight of the audience. In a dramatic twist, Darth Vader emerged victorious and led the orchestra in a powerful rendition of the iconic “Imperial March.” Adding to the spectacle, the string players adorned their bows with LED lights, transforming them into glowing light sabers as they performed the final number.

light up bows

The demonstration not only entertained but also served as an introduction to the world of orchestral music, inspiring many young students to consider learning an instrument in the future. The Penn High School Symphonic Orchestra’s performance was a perfect blend of education and entertainment, leaving a lasting impression on its young audience.

Change to 2024-25 School Year Calendar

Due to the absence of local, state, or national elections on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, all P-H-M schools will be in session on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.  P-H-M will no longer have a Recess Day on this date.

As a result, the last day of school for students will now be Thursday, June 5, 2025. This is one day earlier than previously scheduled. P-H-M Teachers Association worked collaboratively with the District Administration to make these calendar changes.

Indiana law requires schools to be in session for 180 days each year. If necessary, P-H-M can utilize up to three weather-related eLearning days, as permitted under Indiana law (HB-1093). If additional makeup days are needed, they will be added to the end of the school year, following the new last student day, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Currently, no eLearning days have been called.

The new 2024-2025 school year calendar is posted on the P-H-M website, click here to view the updated calendar.

Change to 2024-25 School Year Calendar

Meadow’s Edge Honors Veterans

On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, Meadow’s Edge Elementary School proudly paid tribute to our nation’s heroes with a Veterans Day concert. The special event featured performances at 1:30 p.m. for students and staff and an evening show dedicated to the families and veterans from the local community.

student with microphone

The school gymnasium was adorned with red, white, and blue decorations, adding to the uplifting atmosphere. Students wore themed attire while they performed patriotic songs. 

teacher speaking

Meadow’s Edge Elementary extends its deepest thanks to the veterans, families, and all who supported this significant event.

5th Graders Enjoy Beautiful Weather Day

Fifth-grade students at Meadow’s Edge Elementary recently enjoyed the beautiful fall weather on the playground. With the sun shining and a crisp breeze in the air, the students made the most of their time outdoors, engaging in fun activities with their friends and taking a well-deserved break from their studies.

student with EA

Be sure to check out our photo gallery, capturing the joy and excitement as the students soaked up the fall sunshine. It’s a perfect reminder of how important it is to embrace these moments and enjoy the beauty of the season!

Fire Department Visits Kindergarteners

Meadow’s Edge Elementary had an exciting visit from the Penn Township Fire Department, where kindergarten students learned valuable fire safety lessons in a fun and engaging way. The firefighters introduced the students to their protective uniforms, explaining how each piece helps keep them safe during emergencies.

firefighter talking to students

Students also had the opportunity to explore a real firetruck up close, learning about the important tools firefighters use on the job. The highlight of the day was when the kids got hands-on experience by operating a firehose, giving them a taste of what it’s like to be a firefighter.

fire extinguisher

This interactive visit not only sparked curiosity but also helped reinforce essential fire safety practices. Meadow’s Edge thanks the Penn Township Fire Department for their commitment to keeping the community safe and for inspiring the next generation of potential firefighters!

2024 Homecoming Recap

Thank you to EVERYONE who came to the 2024 Homecoming Parade and Football game. It was a terrific time not only for the Penn students, but also for the entire community.

The Parade, Expo, Fun Zone, Food Trucks and Fireworks were all bigger and better than ever.

After the game was over, the fans in attendance were treated to a fireworks show set to music!

There are three photo galleries below, one of the parade floats and participants, one of the parade spectators and one of the fun zone and expo. Take a look and we’ll see you in 2025!

Parade Floats

Parade Spectators

Fun Zone & Expo

Homecoming 2024 Details

Attention P-H-M families and community members! Mark your calendars for the annual Homecoming Celebration on Friday, October 4, 2024. Penn High School students, don’t forget the Homecoming Dance is on Saturday, October 5, 2024.
 
This event is ONLY possible through the generous support of the P-H-M Education Foundation, Presenting Sponsor “Drive and Shine” and our other incredible sponsors. Click here to see the videos and pictures from last year’s amazing event.
 

Friday, October 4, 2024

Family Fun Zone
• Time: 4-7 p.m.
• Cost: Free
• Location: Jordan Automotive Group Baseball Stadium
• What:
Bounce Houses, Gaga Ball, Obstacle Courses, 22 ft slide and more!
• The Family Fun Zone is Free thanks to Fun Zone Sponsors Gary and Tammy Fox 

Vendor Expo
• Time: 4-7 p.m.
• Cost: Free
• Location: First Base Side of the Jordan Automotive Group Baseball Stadium
• What: Tables with vendors sharing valuable information &
Free “Go Penn” temporary tattoos for all Kingsmen and future Kingsmen!

Food Trucks
• Time: 4-7 p.m.
• Cost: Varies
• Location: North End of Penn High School Parking Lots
• What: Get dinner or a snack from a varity of delicious local food trucks!

Homecoming Parade
• Time: 5:30 p.m.
• Cost: Free
• Location: Wraps around the rear of Schmucker Middle School, Left turn onto Bittersweet Road, Right turn past Penn Student Parking (See Map)
• What: Each P-H-M Elementary and Middle school will be marching as well as floats created by a varity of Penn High School sports, clubs and students groups.  Don’t forget to vote for your favorite float at the Expo!

Football Game
• What: Penn vs Elkhart
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Cost: $6 in advance (online or high school students may purchase in the Penn Athletic Office until 8 a.m. on Friday) $7 at the gate (or after 8 a.m. in the Penn Athletic Office)
  Any elementary student or younger, who attends with a paying adult, is free! (Ex. 1 paying parent with 3 elementary children, all 3 children are free)  
• Location: Everwise Freed Field
Click for facility Rules to Remember

Parking
• Cost: $3 to park in lots around Penn High School (See Map)
  All money raised through parking supports the Penn High School Band Boosters 
• Cost: Free to park in Schmucker, Pennway, Baseball and softball lots (See Map)
  Families are encouraged to arrive early to allow plenty of time to find parking and walk to the events

Fireworks
• Time: TBD – After Football Game
• Location: Everwise Freed Field
• What: Spectacular firework’s show to end the evening

Click Map to Expand
Homecoming 2024 Details

Saturday, October 5, 2024

“An Enchanted Evening” Homecoming Dance
• Time: 7:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
• Location: Everwise Freed Field & Yeoman Family Plaza
• Cost: $25 Per Ticket
Purchase Tickets Here
• What: An Enchanted Evening for PHS students! Great music, games, and food! Plus, new addition of a 360 -degree videography photo booth!

October 1-7, 2024

Silent Auction
• Beginning October 1st, bid on a variety of items compliments of our community partners
Click Here for Silent Auction 
• All proceeds benefit the P-H-M Education Foundation

For sponsorship opportunities or other information, please reach out to Jen Turnblom jturnblom@phmef.org

Rules to Remember:

  • No reentry; once you leave, you are not allowed back in.
  • No outside food or beverages, no insulated cups
  • No backpacks
    • Diaper bags & large women’s purses are allowed
  • Penn does not have a clear bag policy
  • No electronic noise makers
  • No Footballs or Beach Balls
  • No weapons of any kind
  • No alcohol
  • No Smoking/Vaping products of any kind. All PHM school property is smoke free.
  • No open flames at private tailgating

First Graders Explore Art Through Matisse’s “Les bêtes de la mer”

This morning, Meadow’s Edge Elementary first graders delved into the world of French artist Henri Matisse by learning about his iconic 1950 work, Les bêtes de la mer, a stunning paper collage on canvas. After a brief lesson on Matisse’s technique and style, the students got creative and crafted their own vibrant paper collages, drawing inspiration from the artist’s use of color and shape.

Take a look at their wonderful creations!

 

Girls Basketball Youth League Sign-ups September 8th, 12 p.m.

Registration for the Girls Basketball Youth League will take place at Penn High School on Sunday, September 8th, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Please enter Door “D”.

Door D

This league is designed for girls in grades 3rd – 8th who live within the P-H-M District Boundaries.

Visit the PDFs posted below for information on how to register, dates/times/locations and cost.

CLICK HERE for complete league registration information.

CLICK HERE for important dates. 

2024 First Day Photo Gallery

We are so excited to have everyone back at school, please view the photo gallery below to see some “First Day of School Smiles!”