January 30, 2026

This week reminded us that winter has fully settled in — and may be planning to stick around for a while. We kicked things off with our first snow day on Monday, followed by a two-hour delay on Tuesday, and frigid temperatures that seemed relentless all week and now will move into the weekend.

Despite the cold, it was a week full of pride and connection. On Wednesday evening, Fern Hill had the honor of delivering the WCASD School Board Report. Chase and Maeve represented our Bobcat community beautifully, confidently sharing what it’s like to be an elementary schooler at Fern Hill. Their voices captured the heart of our school, and we couldn’t have been prouder.

We closed out the week with a much-needed dose of warmth as our Student Council surprised staff with a Sunshine Cart — a thoughtful gesture of appreciation that truly brightened a busy, wintry week.

We’re also looking forward to ending the week on a high note and hope to see so many Fern Hill families at our sold-out Bingo Night tonight, January 30!

As we look ahead, a reminder that there is no school for students on Wednesday, February 4, as teachers will be participating in a scheduled in-service day.

Jan 30 - PTO Bingo Night

Feb 2 - 13 - To Love a Canine School-Wide Service Project

Feb 4 - Schools Closed

Feb 13 - 5th Grade Valentine's Dance Party

Mar 2 - 6 - Read Across America Spirit Week

March 18-19 - Spring Parent-Teacher Conferences

• No School for Elementary Learners

March 20 - Schools Closed K-12

Spring parent-teacher conferences will take place on March 18–19. Please note that the schedule differs slightly from our fall conferences, and we want to be sure families have the correct dates reflected on the district calendar. There will be no school for elementary students on March 18–20, with March 20 being a K–12 school closure.

While the format is a bit different, our conference schedule still provides ample time for teachers to connect with all families. The Spring Parent-Teacher Conference sign-up will be shared on February 20, and families may choose to meet in person or virtually via Microsoft Teams.

Fifth-grade families will also receive a letter outlining your child’s 6th-grade core academic placements prior to conferences so you have that information in advance of your meeting.

We look forward to meaningful conversations as we partner together to support each student’s growth.

Our 5th graders just finished their Fugett Field Trip and it is time for us to begin thinking and acting on the 5th to 6th grade transition to ensure a smooth experience for your child and family. While they will always be bobcats in our eyes, they are soon to be Fugett Cougars, so we want to be sure you have all the information you need regarding the course selection process, parent information session, and more.

• Please click here to read the letter provided by Dr. Sara Missett (Director of Elementary Education) that shares all content and invitations for upcoming 5th to 6th grade events.

  
  

Dates to Know:

• February 11 - Middle School 101 - Register here for the virtual information night hosted by middle school principals to provide insights into the middle school experience on February 11 at 6:30 via Teams.

• February 13 - Music Course Selection Due!

• February 19 - Families receive district letter with their child's core academic placements and music course selection

• March 18-19 - Parent/Teacher Conferences

• May 6 - Parent Information Night hosted by Fugett Middle School

Please reach out to your child's teacher or I if you have questions throughout the transition process.

In the meantime, we look forward to enjoying every minute we have left with your child!

In WCASD’s full-day kindergarten, learning begins with play. Through hands-on, play-based experiences, children build language skills, confidence, creativity, and friendships while learning how to work together and try new things.

It’s a joyful foundation that supports your child’s growth today and sets them up for success in the years ahead. We can’t wait to welcome your family to the WCASD Way!

If you have used child-sized cleats or shin guards, please consider donating them. Real Futbol Club is a local soccer club dedicated to bringing soccer to families in our area. Mrs. Christine Miller and Mrs. Lisa Baker will have boxes in their rooms for any donations. We will take donations until February 13. Thank you!

Tickets for our annual BINGO night sold out at record speed! Thank you for the awesome response to this fun event!! We look forward to seeing those that purchased tickets Friday January 30. Doors open at 5:45!

Want one less thing on your to-do list in May? Order your yearbook early and save 10%—but hurry, the discount ends October 31st!

Click here to purchase [web.treering.com]

Earning money for our school has never been easier! All you need to do is download the Box Tops app, create an account, and scan your grocery receipt. Easy and quick! Last year we earned $500 from Box Tops for Fern Hill!

We love having our families volunteer throughout the building. In order to volunteer, adults are required to have their clearances on file with us. Clearances can take 4-6 weeks to acquire, so please be sure to get the process started if you're looking to volunteer this Fall.

If you are planning a family trip, please complete the Trip Approval Form to notify the Main Office and gain approval for your trip. The Vacation Request Form will also always be available on our Fern Hill Website under the "For Parents" section.

• Fern Hill Website
• PTO Website
• Vacation Approval Request Form

• FHE: Kindergarten Lunch Duty
• FHE: 1st Grade Lunch Duty

Jennifer Southmayd

Principal

Email: jsouthmayd@wcasd.net
Website: https://www.wcasd.net/fhe
Location: 915 Lincoln Avenue, West Chester, PA, USA
Phone: 484 266 1600
Twitter: @FernHillES