UMASD Community Weekly Newsletter

Red Ribbon Week

• November 9 | School Board Operations/Facilities Committee Meeting and Other Items for Board Action (Virtual - click here)
• November 11 | Veterans Day

• November 12-14 | The Crucible – UMHS Underground Players Fall Production (Tickets & Information)

Dear Students, Staff, and Families,

As we enter this vibrant season, I want to extend my greetings to everyone in our school district celebrating Diwali, the Festival of Lights.

Diwali is a cherished tradition for many families across our diverse community, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, wisdom over ignorance, and hope over despair. It is a time for reflection, togetherness, and renewed optimism for the future.

Our school district takes immense pride in being a welcoming, inclusive place where every culture and background is honored. Recognizing Diwali allows us to celebrate the rich tapestry of traditions that make our community so special.

To all who are observing, I wish you and your loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and prosperous Diwali. May the year ahead be filled with brightness and success!

Warm regards,

Dr. Tamara Thomas Smith

Superintendent of Schools

Dear Upper Merion Area School District Community,

As Veterans Day approaches, I want to express our sincere gratitude to the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces across the nation and within our own school community, including our dedicated staff, parents, grandparents, and alumni.

Veterans Day is an important opportunity for us to reflect on the dedication, sacrifice, and courage of our service members. Their commitment to defending our freedoms and serving our country provides a powerful example of civic duty and selflessness.

Our schools across the district will be hosting a variety of age-appropriate acknowledgments, activities, and gatherings to honor our veterans. Our educators and staff are dedicated to ensuring our students understand the significance of this day.

Thank you for joining us in recognizing and celebrating our veterans this week.

Warm regards,

Tamara Thomas Smith

Our UMASD Veterans:

• Heather Mahon – U.S. Army | 8th Grade Science, Middle School

• David Alexander – U.S. Marine Corps | Special Education, Candlebrook Elementary

• Joe Heinz– U.S. Army | Math, High School

• Richard Blakely – U.S. Air Force | 8th Grade Social Studies, Middle School

The UMAHS Underground Players are excited to invite you to experience Arthur Miller's electrifying masterpiece, The Crucible, which proves that fear spreads faster than truth, and silence is often the most dangerous weapon of all. Starring Liam Kelly, Daisy Huller, and Maddy Trofa, this is one show you won't want to miss! The Crucible is intended for viewers ages 12+ due to some mature themes. The show will run approximately 2 hours and include a 15-minute intermission.

Our show dates and times are as follows:

• Thursday, November 12 at 7:00 PM

• Friday, November 13 at 7:00 PM

• Saturday, November 14 at 2:00 PM (ASL-interpreted)

Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for students, and $10 for senior citizens.

Tickets can be purchased here. All ticket sales for The Crucible are online only. Please email Producer Ricki Imhoff at eimhoff@umasd.org with any questions.

What happens when a current Upper Merion student gets the opportunity to interview one of the district's most accomplished graduates?

At the 2026 Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Upper Merion Area High School junior Alyssa Hepburn stepped into the spotlight to interview ESPN broadcaster and fellow Viking Lisa Salters.

A student-athlete and member of The Viking Call, Upper Merion's student newspaper, Alyssa approached the opportunity with confidence and professionalism, asking Salters about her journey from Upper Merion to a successful career in sports broadcasting.

Salters was inducted alongside Philadelphia sports greats including Hugh Douglas, Jon Runyan, Carli Lloyd, and Sal Paolantonio. Superintendent Dr. Tamara Thomas Smith was also in attendance to celebrate the occasion.

It was a proud moment for Upper Merion, celebrating the achievements of one generation while inspiring the next.

Once a Viking, always a Viking!

Central Montco Technical High School (CMTHS) invites students and families to its Admissions Open House on Thursday, November 19, from 6:00–8:00 PM.

Attendees will have the opportunity to tour all 16 career and technical education programs, watch student demonstrations, meet experienced instructors, and connect with college partners.

Students interested in attending CMTHS for the 2027–2028 school year can begin their applications at the event. Those who apply during the Open House will also receive special CMTHS giveaways!

Date: Thursday, November 19, 2026
Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: 821 Plymouth Road, Plymouth Meeting, PA

For more information, visit www.cmths.org.

Roberts Elementary is excited to launch Best Buddies, a wonderful new initiative brought to our school by first-grade teacher Ms. Balsam! This week, 22 students in grades K–4 came together for our very first meeting. Students participated in fun Morning Meeting activities designed to build connections, encourage conversation, and foster new friendships across grade levels. We also created friendship keychains to celebrate our new connections and take home a little reminder of what it means to be a buddy! We had a fantastic time getting to know one another and are already looking forward to our next gathering and our upcoming Friendsgiving celebration!

Congratulations to the Upper Merion Area High School Marching Band on an outstanding conclusion to their competition season! At their final competition last Saturday at Wilson High School, the band earned its highest score in at least 20 years!

This remarkable achievement reflects the hard work, dedication, and talent of our student musicians and staff. Congratulations to everyone involved on an incredible season and this exciting milestone!

The Upper Merion Township Dr. King Committee invites UMASD students in grades K–12 to participate in its 2027 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Student Contest! Students are encouraged to explore this year's theme, “Be Love: A Global Call to Human Conscience,” through essays, poetry, videos, artwork, or other creative projects. Cash prizes will be awarded at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.

Submissions are due Friday, December 4, 2026.

Click here to read the full letter, including contest guidelines, prize details, and submission instructions.

The Upper Merion Area Community Alliance for a Safer Tomorrow (CAST) invites community members to participate in a Turkey Trot on Wednesday, November 11, in recognition of the Great American Smokeout!

Stop by the Upper Merion track anytime between 2:30 and 4:30 PM to walk in support of a smoke-free, healthier community. Each lap earns participants a raffle ticket for a chance to win a $25 gift card, and all walkers will receive a lollipop.

There is no cost to participate, but attendees are encouraged to bring canned soup donations to support the Upper Merion Area Community Cupboard.

Date: Wednesday, November 11
Time: 2:30–4:30 PM
Location: Upper Merion Track

The Upper Merion Area Community Alliance for a Safer Tomorrow (CAST) invites middle school students to get creative and promote healthy, drug-free choices through its Red Ribbon Week Poster Contest!

This year's theme is “Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free.” Students are encouraged to design a poster highlighting the importance of making positive, healthy decisions.

Prizes:

• 1st Place: $50 Gift Card

• 2nd Place: $25 Gift Card

• 3rd Place: $20 Gift Card

Submission Deadline: Friday, November 13, 2026

Students interested in participating should review the attached contest guidelines for additional details, here.

Upper Merion Performing Arts invites students in grades 2–6 to join its Winter 2027 musical theater production of Disney's The Jungle Book KIDS! Young performers will have the opportunity to develop their acting, singing, and dancing skills while bringing this beloved Disney story to life on stage.

Families can choose between Tuesday and Wednesday casts, with rehearsals beginning the week of January 5.

Performance Dates:

• Tuesday Cast: March 15 & 16, 2027

• Wednesday Cast: March 17 & 18, 2027

Registration is now open! Visit www.umperformingarts.com for more information and to register.

Peace Lutheran Church in King of Prussia invites families and community members to its Peace Community Celebration on Sunday, November 15, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This free event features food, a bounce house, mini golf, children's crafts, giveaways, and opportunities to participate in community service projects supporting local organizations, including the Upper Merion Area Community Cupboard.

Location: 200 E. Beidler Road, King of Prussia, PA

Attendees are encouraged to bring a donation to support the Upper Merion Area Community Cupboard.

For more information, visit www.peacekop.com.

Wishes for Our Warriors, LLC is organizing its annual holiday collection to support individuals experiencing homelessness throughout Montgomery, Chester, and Berks Counties. Community members are encouraged to donate essential items, including warm clothing, blankets, sleeping bags, personal hygiene products, and nonperishable food.

Important Collection Dates:

• November 20: Thanksgiving/Holiday Cards for Veterans

• December 11: Wishes for Our Warriors Donation Collection

Every contribution helps provide warmth, comfort, and essential supplies to neighbors in need this holiday season.

Click here to view the list of essential items

The Upper Merion Township Library invites students in grades K–12 to showcase their creativity in the 2027 Ink & Art Contest! Students are challenged to reimagine the cover of their favorite published book by designing an original front and back cover. Winning designs will be recognized and featured in a special library collection!

Entries will be accepted December 1, 2026, through February 1, 2027.

Click here to learn more about contest guidelines, submission requirements, and how to participate!

Many of our students will be taking the plunge on February 19th in Philadelphia to support Special Olympics. Any donation, big or small, makes a difference and helps support our Upper Merion Unified Sports Program.

Thank you for your generosity and for supporting our amazing students! Every little bit helps!

https://give.specialolympicspa.org/team/864194

Igloo Garden on the Green returns to King of Prussia November 3–17! Enjoy a festive 55-minute experience inside a private, heated igloo for up to six guests, complete with holiday lights and cozy furnishings. Bring your favorite takeout and enjoy a memorable outing with family or friends while supporting the Upper Merion Area Community Cupboard.

Reservations are now open! Learn More & Reserve Your Igloo

Volunteers Needed! King of Prussia District is also seeking volunteers November 3–17 to assist with guest check-ins, preparing igloos between reservations, and supporting event staff. It's a great opportunity to give back while supporting the Upper Merion Area Community Cupboard.

Sign Up to Volunteer

• Registration is open for the Upper Merion Parks & Recreation Schools Out Coed Sports Camps for schools out days in November and December 2026.

• Schools Out Sports Camp is a fun and engaging way for your child to spend school holidays and days off. The program provides children with opportunities to stay active, explore different sports, build friendships, and enjoy creative enrichment activities in a welcoming and supportive environment. Participants will experience a variety of sports, recreational games, fitness activities, and enrichment opportunities throughout each camp day. Our experienced staff are committed to creating a positive environment where children can stay engaged, develop skills, and have fun while school is out.

• Upcoming November and December camp dates offer families convenient options for school holidays, in-service days, and other scheduled days including Election Day, Black Friday, and Winter Break.

• Click Here to register!
• Friday, November 27th (Thanksgiving Break)
• December 23rd, 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th,& 31st (Winter Break)

• Click Here for more information!

Upper Merion Parks & Recreation has something for everyone this season! Upcoming programs include youth basketball, multi-sport activities for young children, a trip to New York City, and free retirement planning workshops. Families can also look forward to the Holiday Village Tree Lighting and Gingerbread Display Contest on December 5!

Explore Programs & Register

Join the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit Education Foundation for its annual Trivia Night fundraiser on Friday, November 13, from 6-10 PM at The Empress Room in Blue Bell! Enjoy trivia, dinner, raffles, a silent auction, and more—all while supporting students across Montgomery County. Tickets are $60 per person, and teams of up to eight are welcome.

Click here to register

Montgomery County high school students are invited to get involved with Teen Senate, a program focused on developing leadership skills, promoting mental wellness, and making a positive impact in the community. Participants can connect with students across the county, explore careers, strengthen public speaking skills, and participate in community service projects.

Interested students can learn more and access nomination forms using the QR codes on the flyer below!

Click here to view flyer (English and Español)

The Upper Merion Area High School Robotics Club is hosting a Gift Card Raffle Fundraiser! With three teams competing in local qualifiers and working toward the PA State Championship in March, your support will help cover robot parts, competition fees, and other team expenses.

Raffle prizes range from $100 to $250 in gift cards, and tickets are just $5 each or five for $20. The drawing will take place November 20, 2026.

Want to participate? Email Rebecca Brown rbrown@umasd.org with the number of tickets you'd like to purchase, and you'll receive instructions on the next steps. Thank you for supporting our student robotics teams!

Support the Upper Merion Area Middle School Best Buddies program by shopping its new apparel collection! From hoodies and jackets to shorts and backpacks, there's something for everyone. A portion of every purchase goes directly toward supporting the Middle School Best Buddies chapter and its efforts to promote friendship and inclusion.

Click Here to Shop the Best Buddies Collection

Click here to view the meeting summary

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Office of School & Community Information

Upper Merion Area School District

435 Crossfield Road | King of Prussia, PA 19406

Chris Dickerson, Director

cdickerson@umasd.org

www.umasd.org