Paw Power Press
Butler Elementary School - Volume 16 - April 2026
Butler's Pledge: Be Respectful, Responsible, & Kind
Welcome, Dr. Wexler
Dr. Joanna Wexler Meets Community, Officially Appointed Superintendent
Central Bucks School District welcomed Dr. Joanna Wexler for a public forum at CB West on April 8, where the superintendent finalist was introduced to the community and responded to pre-submitted questions from a range of stakeholders. Watch recording and read more. Dr. Wexler's appointment was then approved by the school board at an April 14 special meeting. Read more
Important Information
26-27 Parent Input Form, Now - April 30th
Planning is underway for class placement for next year. It is a long and complex process that can be reviewed within the email previously shared by Mr. Funseth and Mrs. Brevic, Principals. If interested in sharing input for your child - forms are due no later than April 30th. Click here to download the form.
An overview of our process: Classroom Placement Planning and Procedure Letter - Click Here
Butler Cell Phone/SMART Watch/Personal Device Policy
When in school, personal student cell phone/SMART Watch/device usage are to be silenced and remain in backpacks during the school day. In some instances, students need their device to monitor health status through each day, and this will remain in place. However, should there be a need for any student/home communication, it will take place with the support of the teacher/school office during the school day. These district expectations have been shared with students, and we appreciate your support with your children as we navigate each school day.
We invite you to watch a short video as a reminder about the guidelines for student use of cell phones and personal electronic devices, including smartwatches, in our schools.
Student 1:1 Device Assistance
District Messages & Announcements
All Students New to CB in 2026-27 Can Now Register!
Congrats to April Lock Screen Winner, Next Round of Submissions Due 4/30
Congrats to Addison Carr, a senior at CB West, for winning the April round of CBSD's "See the Good, Be the Good" lock screen contest and earning a gift card to her restaurant of choice! April's theme was "See the Good, Be the Good in Creativity" and Addison's original artwork will be featured on district devices throughout the month. Students can try their hand in the last round of the contest of the school year, "See the Good, Be the Good Through Action." Submissions are due April 30. More details
Local Businesses: Looking for a Student Intern? Learn More About CBSD's Internship Program on May 1; RSVP by April 24
CBSD high schools are actively seeking local businesses interested in participating in the Community Internship Program. Companies looking to mentor and support students in their professional growth can contact Will Melvin, Internship Program Director, at wmelvin@cbsd.org for more information as well as attend an informational event on the Community Internship Program on Friday, May 1 from 12:30-2 p.m. at CB South (1100 Folly Rd., Warrington). RSVP is requested by April 24. See flyer to learn more about this event.
Be Sure to Update the CBSD App for the Most Up-to-Date Information
If you use the official CBSD app on your iPhone or Android device, please visit the App Store or Google Play and search for "Central Bucks" to locate the app and update it to the most current version. The most current version of the app lists the most accurate and up-to-date information from the district, including calendar details.
Community Members Invited to Sign Up for Messages and Alerts from CBSD
Did you know that Central Bucks residents and local citizens without students attending a CBSD school can sign up to receive community-wide email and text messages and alerts from the district? The district welcomes community members who are interested in receiving updates about school board action, alerts about school schedule changes, and other communications intended for the public. Sign up now to stay connected to CB!
Check CBSD "e-Flyer Folder" Regularly for Info on Community Events
Register Now for 2026 CBSD Summer Camps!
Get ready for a summer filled with music, creativity, enrichment, athletics, and new friendships.
Central Bucks School District Community School is proud to offer an exciting lineup of 2026 summer camps designed to help students explore their interests, build skills, and have fun along the way. From band, strings, and singing to French culture, mock trial, and chess to sports camps and hands-on enrichment, there’s something for every learner and every passion.
PSSA School-Wide Assessment Information 2026 - Grades 3-6
PSSA Schedule - Grades 3-6 (2026)
Please refer to the schedule below for planning purposes. All assessments will be digital this spring. More information to come about planning and preparation.
PSSA Schedule:
English Language Assessment - 3-Sections - 4/21-4/23 (Grade 3-6)
Math - 2-Sections - 4/28 & 4/29 (Grade 3-6)
Science - 1-Section - 4/30 (Grade 5)
Make-Up Testing - 5/1-5/8
PSSA Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Important information is shared in advance of the implementation of the PSSA. This includes General Information, English Language Assessment (Gr. 3-6), Math Assessment (Gr. 3-6), and Science (Gr. 5). Please Click Here to review the information for parents and guardians.
PSSA Electronics Policy
As a district, all personal SMART devices are not allowed during the school day at the elementary level - including (but not limited to) cell phones, smart phones, smart watches, etc. During the administration of the PSSA, the PA Department of Education requires schools to set rules and take steps to protect all test materials from being photographed or duplicated. Therefore, no personal device will be allowed during assessments unless it is for monitoring health conditions. Please Click Here to read more.
PSSA Calculator Policy
Where the calculator is permitted, students must adhere to specified guidelines. All policies will be implemented including using only school-approved calculators. Included in the link are those calculators not approved for use during testing. Please Click Here to review the calculator policy.
Department Updates
The Art Pallet w/ Ms. Casey
This month of April, Butler student art projects were featured at our State Representative's Local Office. There is still time to visit through April 30th - Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Congratulations to the following students for having their artwork on display: Luci T., Samantha D., Fiona O., Lux D., Sarah U., Emma S., Noah W., Sawyer W., Julianna B., Evelyn D., Emma D., Dinara S., Tamara M., Yeji P., Amelie B., Alice L., Alina Y., Emilia J., Margo M., Julie H., Anisa M., Brayden J., Charlee M., Leah M., Saara S., Amina M., Ruhi A.
English Language Development - Kindergarten!
Our English Language Development (ELD) kindergarten has been hard at work learning important spring vocabulary words and practicing our newly acquired reading skills. This month, we looked at where wool comes from, how yarn is made, and what we do with it. We also practiced finding words we can read in big books and marked them with sticky notes so we could show everyone what we know. But our favorite part of the week was getting back out on the playground to enjoy the beautiful weather. It’s been a great week in ELD K!
Library Corner w/ Mrs. Hanna
In library class, first graders are engaging in the research process. Using our PebbleGo database, young researchers are locating and gathering facts about cardinals. They are practicing note-taking by identifying the most important details to include in their notes. Students are also learning to use information responsibly by giving credit to the source of their notes.
Music: Behind the Notes
The music room is busy acting and singing in preparation for our upcoming Spring Concerts:
1st Grade "Creepy Creatures" will feature silly songs about "creepy" creatures such as skunks, alligators, mice, spiders and snakes. Students are invited to dress like their favorite creature or wear a shirt with a picture of a creepy creature. Face paint is always allowed!
2nd Grade "Hats" will be a story of how to find the perfect hat. Baseball cap, chef's hat, party hat or tiara, students should come to the show wearing their favorite hat.
3rd Grade "Rock N Roll And How It All Began" will teach our audience the roots of rock n roll music in America. Hits include songs by Elvis, The Beach Boys, The Beatles and Little Richard. Students are invited to dress in rock n roll clothes from any decade.
4th Grade "Red Carpet Recorders" will showcase popular tunes from the movies. Students can dress like their favorite movie or TV star. This concert will take place with our wonderful 4th grade orchestra concert.
PEN: Spotlight
- Primary Students: Enriching the core curriculum
- 2nd Grade: These Junior Detectives have started solving mysteries! Their first case involves studying and applying handwriting analysis!
- 3rd Grade: Students have recently learned about the luck and skill elements in games. They are about to begin planning and designing their own unique board game!
- 4th Grade: Prototypes have been completed and marketing campaigns are being polished! These inventors are starting to prepare their Invention Convention presentations.
- 5th and 6th Grade: Please see the highlights from our Robotics Olympics!
Physical Education; Active Updates
During March, physical education classes focused on fitness and health concepts, including healthy eating, hygiene, sleep, and the importance of regular exercise. Kindergarten through 2nd grade students explored these topics through activities such as germ tag, yoga, BrainPOP Jr. videos, and hula hoop and scooter games, while 3rd and 4th graders practiced taking their pulse, developed jump rope skills, and played scooter handball. Fifth and sixth grade students also participated in three classroom lessons on human growth and development, learning about the physical, emotional, and social changes they can expect in the coming years.
School Calendar & Updates
School Calendar
April Continued:
Apr. 17 - PTO Lip Sync - 5th & 6th Grade Performances (Evening Event)
Apr. 21-23 - PSSA Assessment - English Language (Gr. 3-6)
Apr. 22 - Administrator Professional Day - Thank You, Office Staff!
Apr. 23 - CB School Board Meeting - *CB West Auditorium - 7:30 PM
Apr. 28&29 - PSSA Assessment - Math (Gr. 3-6)
Apr. 30 - PSSA Assessment - Science (Gr. 5 Only)
May:
May 1-8 - PSSA Make Ups
May 5 - Teacher Appreciation Day
May 6 - School Nurse Appreciation Day
May 8 - Spirit Day - Black & White Day
May 11-14 - Butler PTO Book Fair (School Day Only)
May 11 - 1st Grade Concert - 6:30 PM
May 11 - 3rd Grade Concert - 7:30 PM
May 12 - Screenagers Next Chapter - Lenape Middle School - 7:00 PM
May 18 - 2nd Grade Concert - 6:30 PM
May 18 - 4th Grade Concert - 7:30 PM
May 19 - No School - Election Day
May 21 - Field Day - Green Vs. White!
May 22 - Early Dismissal - 12:25 PM; PM Staff Development; AM Kdg. Attends (ONLY)
May 25 - School Holiday - Memorial Day - No School for Students and Staff (Offices Closed)
May 27 - PTO General Meeting in Library - 7:00 PM
Supporting Every Learner: Practical Strategies for Anxiety & Learning Differences
The Central Bucks Education Foundation is pleased to present a practical, expert-led session focused on supporting student well-being and reducing barriers to learning. "Supporting the Whole Child: Anxiety & Learning Differences" will take place on Saturday, May 2. from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Unami Middle School and features licensed school and clinical psychologists who will share actionable strategies event attendees can use right away. Teachers can earn three Act 48 hours by registering in Frontline. Teachers are FREE and will earn 3 hours of Act 48 credit, registering in the Frontline system, while all other community members are only $25! View the event flyer and register on CBEF's website now!
Join Us for "Screenagers Next Chapter: Addressing Youth Mental Health in the Digital Age" on May 12
Central Bucks parents, guardians, and students in sixth grade and above are invited to continue the community conversation about screen time and digital wellness at a showing of "Screenagers Next Chapter: Addressing Youth Mental Health in the Digital Age" on Tuesday, May 12 at 7 p.m. at Lenape Middle School (313 W. State St., Doylestown). No pre-registration is required, and childcare will not be available. The event is free-of-charge. Learn more
Get Active!: Register Now for CB Kids Tri and CB Kids Run
Spring Concerts - Save the Dates Gr.1-4, 5th & 6th Gr. School Musical
Please mark your calendars for our Spring Concert Series for chorus/music.
-Ms. Griffin
Music Department Instrument Blast Off! - CB West - 6/1/26
Bring your interested student to CB West to learn more about music options in Central Bucks - 6:30 - 8:30 PM! Details below for current Grades 2, 3, and 4!
Butler Spirit Day Calendar
Please see the attached calendar for our Spirit Day Themes!
Save the Dates for our 5th & 6th Grade Butler Promotions - June 2026
Please save the dates for our upcoming 5th & 6th Grade Promotions which will be held on two different nights in June - both beginning at 7:00 PM. We have coordinated our night events with those of Unami, CB South, and MBIT in order to avoid any potential conflicts (as best as possible) in order to maximize participation for our students and families!
CBSD Summer Music Camp
Details below.
School Happenings
Reading Olympics - 5th &b 6th Grade Butler Team Success! - 4/15
Butler Elementary participates in each Reading Olympics event - this year hosted by Warwick Elementary School! Four Butler Teams showed extremely well each earning either a Blue Ribbon or Red Ribbon! Congratulations to the members of our teams:
- I Survived Reading Olympics
- Butler Book Bandits
- Thirteen Zesty Readers
- The "W" Bears
I Survived Reading Olympics
Butler Book Bandits
Thirteen Zesty Readers
The "W" Bears
5th Grade Ropes Field Trip
We couldn’t have asked for better weather during our 5th Grade Spring Ropes Trip to Elbow Lane on April 9th and 10th! Students challenged themselves through a series of low-rope team initiatives and high-rope climbing experiences, all designed to strengthen trust, collaboration, and self-confidence. Throughout the trip, students were encouraged to stretch beyond their comfort zones while supporting one another every step of the way. They practiced giving and receiving thoughtful, specific feedback - learning how to take risks, grow together, and celebrate shared accomplishments. We’re excited to see these skills continue to shine in the classroom and as our students transition to Unami next year. A huge thank you to the Butler PTO for their generous support in funding a portion of this trip.
Low Ropes - Day 1
High Ropes - Day 2
Butler 5th & 6th Grades Visit Unami for middle School Orientation
Our Butler 5th and 6th Graders learned what it means to be a Unami Warrior! On April 8th, our students went to Unami to meet the principals and some staff taking part in a student-led information session and school tour. Students even had a chance to order Unami swag in prep for next year. Thank you to Unami principals for organizing the event and helping the students feel excitement for Middle School!
Weather Party Assembly - 4/13
Welcome to the STORM! DJAY Storm blew into Butler with some weather news and dance grooves! Trained meteorologist, Jayson came to Butler to teach the students about different weather conditions like sleet, hail, wind, and snow. Coupled with music, students and staff danced "the tornado", "the hurricane", and ended with the indoor SNOW MACHINE! Thank you to the PTO for their support.
Student Showcase
A Butler Student's Art Displayed at the Michener!
Paw Power Winners - 4/10 & 4/17
Simon Butler's students and staff embrace the Butler Pledge, the foundation of our school's positive behavior program. Our Butler Community promises to:
Be Respectful * Be Responsible * Be Kind
This pledge to all Butler Bears upholds our traditional Pillars: B.U.T.L.E.R.
Butler (at its Best!); Understanding; Teamwork; Leadership; Educational Excellence; Respect
Each week, students earn Positive Paw Power Coupons for their good deeds and honorable actions as recognition. Children enter them into our collection bins where names are drawn to earn a special reward from the Choice Board!
4/10 Winners: Ava K. (Kdg.), Jordan M. (Gr.1), Christian N. (Gr.2), Rita F. (Gr.3), (Gr.4), Kaydence C. (Gr.5), Vincent D'A. (Gr.6), Staff Leader - Miss Sellers
4/17 Winners: Evanshi P. (kdg.), Charlie C. (Gr.1), Mironsho A. (Gr.2), Carolina T. (Gr.3), Gracen K. (Gr.4), Gabe C-T (Gr.5), Aiden B. (Gr.6), Staff Leader - Mrs. Firely
Winners - 4/10
Staff Leader - Miss Sellers - 4/10
Student Choice Board Celebrations
Students are celebrated for their positive behaviors
VIP Table
Gametime w/ Staff
From the Butler PTO
The Butler PTO Newsletter
Butler PTO Family Directory
District Details
Central Bucks School District
Interim Superintendent: Charles Malone, Ed. D.
Assistant Superintendent-Secondary: Charles Malone, Ed. D.
Assistant Superintendent-Elementary: Helen Sclama-Zaleski, Ed. D.
Website: cbsd.org
Location: 20 Welden Drive, Doylestown, PA, USA
Phone: 267-893-2000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cbschools/
Simon Butler Elementary School
Principal: Karl Funseth
Principal's Secretary: Peggy Bernabei
Assistant Principal: Melissa Brevic
Assistant Principal's Secretary: Michele Droxler
Website: https://www.cbsd.org/butler
Location: 200 Brittany Drive, Chalfont, PA, USA
Phone: 267-894-4250