E-Matters January 2026
NPSD E-Matters
Dear North Penn,
As part of my ongoing commitment to keep our community informed, I would like to share a brief update about Act 44 of 2025, a new Pennsylvania law that recently took effect. This legislation updates the Public School Code and focuses on strengthening communication with families and staff in the event that a weapon is found in a school setting.
Under Act 44 of 2025, all public schools in Pennsylvania are required to notify parents, guardians, and staff within 24 hours if a student is found to be in possession of a weapon on their assigned school property, school transportation, or during a school-sponsored activity. The law also directs that schools use communication methods that provide information in a timely (within 24 hours) way that supports safety and transparency.
Incidents involving weapons on school grounds can vary widely in nature, from unintentional possession to situations of greater concern. Regardless of intent or seriousness, NPSD maintains established, comprehensive communication protocols to ensure families and staff are informed promptly and appropriately, while at all times safeguarding the confidentiality of those involved in compliance with applicable law.
Because our current communication practices already align with the requirements of Act 44, we anticipate only minor changes to how we operate. The new law essentially affirms and formalizes practices we have in place, practices we continuously review and improve to serve you better.
I want to express my gratitude to the NPSD security staff and our local police departments for their support in all matters related to school safety. And as always, I thank the greater North Penn community for its partnership and trust. Together we can continue our efforts to maintain safe learning environments for all who enter our schools.
Sincerely,
Todd M. Bauer
Superintendent
2026-2027 Calendar Now Available
The calendar for the 2026-2027 school year was approved by the NPSD Board of School Directors at the January 22 action meeting. The calendar is now available on the NPSD website. Please note that Thanksgiving and Spring breaks are structured differently than in previous years.
Upcoming Events
- January 26, end of 2nd marking period, secondary schools
- January 27, early dismissal
- February 16-17, no school for students
The full NPSD calendar, including school-specific events can be found here.
Eye on Equity
A Monthly Feature from Dr. Pamula Hart, NPSD Director of Curriculum and Equity
In Honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Dreams of Courage
There once was a man with a dream so bright,
He spoke of justice, of freedom, of right.
He walked with courage, though roads were rough,
For the journey to equality was never easy or enough.
Not everyone cheered him; some turned away,
But others joined him, in their own quiet way.
Teachers, neighbors, friends—unsung and true,
Brought his words to life in all that they’d do.
They marched, they spoke, they reached out their hand,
Building a movement that could change the land.
Each small act of courage, each choice to be kind,
Showed that the dream lives in hearts and minds.
He taught us that courage is more than a stand,
It’s lifting each other, hand in hand.
So today we remember, in classrooms and halls,
That heroes are many, not just the ones history recalls.
We learn, we act, we lift and we strive,
To keep this dream and the courage alive.
Pam Hart
Ensuring Belonging
Inglewood Elementary Holds Mix It Up Day
Inglewood Elementary held "Mix it Up Day"! Students were "mixed up" at lunchtime, and given seats away from their usual spot to meet new friends and engage with their peers. There were promoting questions to get the conversation going and encourage students to learn more about each other. Special guests visited the students during lunchtime and joined in on the fun.
Elevating Learning
Pennfield Partners with NMTCC for Upcoming Musical
Engaging Community
Gwynedd Square Elementary Gives Back
Exceeding Expectations
NPHS Students Turn the School Upside Down
Students in the engineering program at North Penn High School created a demogorgon from the show Stranger Things as decoration for the Winter Ball. The creative team designed and assembled the gigantic creature using the skills learnt in class. The result was a feat of both engineering and art. Check out the process and the final result on NPTV.