East Pennsboro Area High School

Greetings,

October was filled with numerous events and accomplishments that show that so many of our students are purposefully engaged in their education at East Pennsboro Area High School. From the excitement of our annual Special Olympics event and the creativity of our Drama Club preparing Alice @ Wonderland, to the energy of Coffee Friday, and important messages during Red Ribbon Week, our students and staff embodied the values of Panther POWER: Preparedness, Ownership, Welcoming, Excellence, and Responsibility.

As we move into November, we continue to build on that positive momentum. This month brings several meaningful traditions, including our Veterans Day Program, the fall play performances, and the start of our winter sports season. These milestones remind us that learning happens through experiences that challenge and shape our students each day. Our students are also deep into first marking period reflections, with report cards still available in Sapphire. We will host Parent-Teacher Conferences on November 24 and 25.

As we approach the season of gratitude, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to our families, staff, and community partners for their continued support of our school and students. I look forward to the months ahead as we continue celebrating the many accomplishments and contributions that make East Pennsboro Area High School a great place to be.

Sincerely,

Dr. Bianchi

• November 10 – Winter Sports Enrollment Deadline
• November 11 – Veteran’s Day – All Schools & Offices Closed
• November 13 – NLI Signing Ceremony
• November 13 & 15 – High School Fall Production Show Dates
• November 14 – High School Winter Sports Begin
• November 20 – Children’s Grief Awareness Day
• November 21 – Coffee Friday
• November 24 – Parent/Teacher Conferences - No School for Students
• November 25 – Parent/Teacher Conferences – No School for Students
• November 26 to November 28 - Fall Break - All Schools & Offices Closed

The first marking period officially ended on October 17, 2025. Student report cards reflecting first marking period grades were posted to Sapphire Portals on October 24, 2025.

Please note that no printed report cards will be sent home with students. Families are encouraged to log in to their Sapphire Portal accounts to review grades and discuss student progress together.

If you have any questions or need assistance accessing your Sapphire Portal account, please contact the High School Office for support.

After nearly 24 years of dedicated service to the East Pennsboro Area School District, Carol Mason is retiring.

Most recently serving as the High School Receptionist, Carol has been the warm and welcoming face greeting students, staff, and visitors each day. Her kindness, professionalism, and commitment to the school community have made a lasting impact on everyone who passes through the high school office.

We thank Carol for her many years of service and wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement!

East Pennsboro High School was proud to host this year’s Special Olympics event, welcoming athletes and schools from across the region for a day of celebration, competition, and community.

More than 200 East Pennsboro High School students volunteered their time to help make the event a success. Volunteers served as athlete buddies, assisted with athletic events such as running races, long jump, softball throw, and javelin, and helped in the Olympic Village. Additional student groups contributed their talents as well—our marching band performed during the opening ceremonies, the NJROTC Color Guard presented the colors, and members of EP Media and the yearbook staff captured memorable moments throughout the day. The concession stand was also staffed by student volunteers who kept athletes and guests refreshed and energized.

It was an inspiring day that highlighted the spirit of inclusion, teamwork, and pride that defines the East Pennsboro community.

During the teacher in-service day on Monday, October 13, 2025, East Pennsboro Area High School hosted a special luncheon honoring our retired staff members. Many retirees joined current faculty and staff to share a meal, reconnect, and reminisce about their years at EPAHS.

Following the event, the retirees expressed their appreciation, noting how much they enjoyed the opportunity to reunite with colleagues and hoping the luncheon becomes a yearly tradition.

It was a wonderful day celebrating the lasting bonds within the East Pennsboro Area High School family!

The East Pennsboro Area High School NJROTC program had a busy and rewarding October with participation in two major events.

First, the cadets proudly led the East Pennsboro Halloween Parade, marching behind the police escort vehicle. The color guard carried the banner to kick off the parade, while more than a dozen cadets handed out candy to excited children along the route — spreading Panther pride and community spirit.

Also in October, the NJROTC unit traveled to Virginia to attend a regional NJROTC competition. There, cadets had the opportunity to observe and participate in events that included color guard performances, armed and unarmed drill team competitions, and physical training challenges. The experience gave them valuable insight into how other NJROTC programs operate and inspired ideas to bring back to East Pennsboro.

Looking ahead, the NJROTC will participate in the school’s Veterans Day Program on Monday, November 11, at 10:30 AM in the high school auditorium. All veterans are warmly invited to attend and be honored. Following the program, cadets will host a meet-and-greet to thank veterans personally and learn more about their experiences in service.

If you are a veteran who would like to attend the Program, please reach out to Sam Yeager at syeager@epasd.org for more information.

A huge thank you to Ace Pickleball Club for their generous donation of a class set of high-quality pickleball paddles to our Physical Education Department! Their support allows our students to learn, play, and enjoy the fast-growing game of pickleball during PE classes.

We sincerely appreciate Ace Pickleball’s commitment to promoting active and healthy lifestyles within our school community. Their generosity makes a real difference for our students!

The East Pennsboro Area High School Drama Club is excited to present this year’s Fall Play — Alice @ Wonderland by Jonathan Yukich!

Students have been hard at work rehearsing for this modern twist on the classic Alice in Wonderland story. Pictured to the left are cast members Alice (Sylvia Mizak) and Humpty Dumpty (Daisy Walker) in a lively battle of wits and words.

Performances will be held in the High School Auditorium on:

• Thursday, November 13 at 7:00 PM

• Saturday, November 15 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM

Come support our talented student performers and enjoy a fun, imaginative show for all ages!

Tickets are available online: https://tinyurl.com/EPAHSFallPlay2

Members of the East Pennsboro High School fall play cast, Alice@Wonderland, recently visited the Fredericksen Library in Camp Hill to share their love of reading and theater with local children. Cast members Josh Davidheiser, Daisy Walker, and Sylvia Mizak read several stories — including Alice in Wonderland — to young library visitors.

The visit was not only a fun way to connect with the community but also an opportunity to promote the upcoming fall production of Alice@Wonderland, which opens on November 13, 2025.

Members of the East Pennsboro Area High School Drama Club brought some Wonderland magic to the community during the East Pennsboro Halloween Parade on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Cast members from the upcoming fall play, Alice @ Wonderland, dressed as their characters and joined the fun as the parade kicked off from the high school and made its way to the township building.

The students were excited to represent the high school and share a preview of their show with the community. It was a great opportunity for the Drama Club to be visible, involved, and spirited as they prepare for their performances in November!

During the week of October 20–23, 2025, East Pennsboro Area High School hosted its annual Club and Activities Fair, giving students the chance to learn about the many ways they can get involved beyond the classroom.

More than 20 clubs and activities set up booths throughout the week, showcasing their missions, events, and opportunities for student participation. Each grade level had a designated day to visit the fair:

• Monday, October 20 – 9th Grade

• Tuesday, October 21 – 10th Grade

• Wednesday, October 22 – 11th Grade

• Thursday, October 23 – 12th Grade

This schedule allowed all students the opportunity to explore at their own pace, talk with club representatives, and discover new interests.

Some of the clubs and activities represented included:
Math Club, Student Council, Sophomore Class Office, Writing Club, French Club, Junior Class Office, Chess/Table-Top Gaming Club, Mini-THON, Ski Club, Indoor Track, Quiz Bowl, Wrestling, One Voice Club, Leadership Club, Environment Club, Art Club, and Spanish Club.

The fair was a great success and highlighted the incredible variety of opportunities available to our Panthers! Parents and guardians are encouraged to talk with their students about the fair and see if any clubs or activities sparked their interest in getting more involved at EPAHS.

East Pennsboro Area High School joined schools across the district in celebrating Red Ribbon Week from October 27th–31st. This annual event is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of living drug-free and making positive, healthy choices.

Throughout the week, students and staff showed their support through a variety of themed spirit days, including Red Out Monday, Team Up Against Drugs Tuesday, Don’t Get Mixed Up in Drugs Wednesday, Gear Up for Greatness Thursday, and My Future Is Bright Friday. Each day provided an opportunity to highlight the message of prevention while fostering school spirit and unity.

Red Ribbon Week serves as a reminder that every student has the power to make smart decisions that lead to a bright and healthy future. We’re proud of our students and staff for their enthusiasm and commitment to supporting a drug-free community!

We care deeply about our students and worry for those who may vape to fit in, manage stress, or for other reasons. As a school community, we can do more—both educationally and in partnership with families—to address this concern. To conclude Red Ribbon Week, students viewed a public service video and discussed the issue with teachers. Fortunately, statistics show that vaping among teens is slightly declining; according to the CDC, about 5.9% of middle and high school students reported using e-cigarettes in the past 30 days in 2024, down from 7.7% in 2023 and nearly 20% for some groups in 2019. Still, addiction is a real concern—Tobacco Free Kids reports that 42.1% of high-school users vape on 20 or more days per month, and 29.7% use them daily. While our school uses detectors and other preventative measures, we remain committed to helping students and families understand the risks of vaping and supporting those seeking healthier choices.

The East Pennsboro High School Marching Panthers took center stage on October 17th during the last home football game of the season, hosting the annual Mass Band Night—a beloved tradition that brings together elementary, middle, and high school musicians for an evening filled with music and school spirit.

High school band members served as mentors and role models for the younger students as more than 100 musicians joined forces to perform “Shout It Out,” arranged by Doug Adams and inspired by the hit movie Drumline. Adding to the excitement, special guest performers—Dr. Robinson, Dr. Price, and Dr. Bianchi—surprised the crowd by joining in on trash can drums during the show!

Under the direction of Mr. Coleman Lidle, with support from Mr. Luke Forshey and Mrs. Kelly Krizan, the Marching Panthers continue to inspire through their leadership, talent, and teamwork. Be sure to watch for upcoming Winter and Spring concerts as our student musicians continue to shine!

On Friday, October 3, East Pennsboro Area High School hosted its first Coffee Friday of the 2025–2026 school year! This much-loved tradition is led by students in the Life Skills classroom, with wonderful support from members of the Leadership Club.

Throughout the morning, the hallways buzzed with excitement as students and staff stopped by to purchase coffee, lemonade, soft pretzels, churros, muffins, and more. Coffee Friday is so much more than a chance for a sweet treat or caffeine kick—it’s a meaningful learning experience that helps students:

• Practice skills for future employment

• Interact with peers and staff

• Build confidence through real-life experiences

• Fund classroom activities, trips, and projects

Life Skills students take the lead in every aspect of the event—running the cash register, handling money, giving change, preparing food and drinks, and keeping the stations stocked. These hands-on experiences help them develop essential skills in communication, teamwork, and customer service.

This year, over 10 members of the Leadership Club are serving as buddies, partnering with Life Skills students to make Coffee Friday a success.

As noted in the District newsletter, “Coffee Friday helps our students learn important skills while engaging with students and teachers throughout the high school.”

A heartfelt thank you goes out to teachers Alexis King and Marsha Stellfox for their dedication, leadership, and continued support in making this beloved tradition such a highlight of the school year.

The next Coffee Friday event will be held on November 21, 2025!

EP Media is the video production program at East Pennsboro Area High School, where students bring stories to life through both scripted and live video production. From creative interviews and special features to live-streamed sports, school events, and the daily announcements show EPTV Live, EP Media plays a vital role in keeping our school community informed and connected.

Students also produce content for the digital signage displayed throughout the high school, showcasing student work, upcoming events, and highlights from around the district.

Participation in EP Media happens through courses such as Broadcasting and Streaming, Audio/Visual Production I & II, and Desktop Publishing. In addition, any student with an interest in media and communication can get involved through the EP Media Club.

By putting professional-grade equipment into the hands of our students, EP Media empowers them to develop their digital storytelling, production, and communication skills—preparing them for success in a media-rich world while giving them a voice within our school community.

Mr. Durika’s Economics and Personal Finance senior classes recently used the Library and Media Learning Commons (LMLC) to prepare for an exciting classroom debate.

Students worked in teams to research and develop their arguments on the resolution: “The federal minimum wage should be raised to $20 an hour.” Each team took an opposing position, gathering evidence and crafting persuasive points to present in a formal debate forum.

This hands-on activity helps students sharpen their critical thinking, public speaking, and research skills while engaging deeply with an important economic issue. The debate encourages thoughtful discussion and real-world application of concepts learned in class.

During the month of October, students in the Forensic Science class put their investigative skills to the test through a creative and interactive assignment. Working in small groups, students developed and filmed original “crime skits” designed to showcase their understanding of the eight different types of evidence studied in class.

Each skit required students to not only include all eight types of evidence, but also to clearly identify and explain them within their video. After completing their projects, groups shared their finished skits with the class—turning the classroom into a mini film festival of forensic investigations!

This engaging assignment allowed students to demonstrate their knowledge of forensic science in a fun, collaborative, and hands-on way while reinforcing key concepts about evidence collection and analysis.

On Wednesday, October 1, several of our high school students — Tessa Beckenbaugh, Raegan Biller, Connor Hacker, Julian Rutherford, Peter Doan, Ben Duncan, Will Hacker, and Robbie Strickland — joined Mr. Barlup for an exciting hands-on learning experience at the Manufacturing and Innovation Discovery Lab.

This interactive career connections event, titled “Create, Make, and Take,” introduced students to the vibrant world of manufacturing in Pennsylvania. Participants discovered the surprising range of products made right here in Central PA — from popular snacks like candy, chips, and pretzels to advanced components used in submarines and even space exploration!

The day emphasized the many career opportunities available in manufacturing for students interested in chemistry, engineering, science, mathematics, and technology.

Representatives from companies such as Sechan Electronics, Keurig, Dr. Pepper, Harley-Davidson, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Publications, Correctional Industries, and the PennDOT Sign Shop were on hand to provide authentic insights into the industry.

This engaging and educational trip gave students a deeper appreciation for the innovation, creativity, and technical skills driving modern manufacturing.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a state senator? On November 9, 2025, East Pennsboro Area High School students got a firsthand look at the legislative process during a special seminar held at the Harrisburg State Capitol.

Rather than simply reading about government in textbooks, students actively participated in a mock senate session. They served on committees, developed positions on real legislation, debated key issues, and learned what it takes to get a law passed—or defeated.

This immersive experience gave students a unique chance to understand the complexities of lawmaking and the importance of civic engagement. It was an exciting opportunity to see democracy in action and to walk the halls where state decisions are made.

Members of the East Pennsboro High School Leadership Club traveled to Messiah University on October 23 to take part in an engaging leadership conference. Students had the opportunity to brainstorm ideas focused on making our school community more inclusive and welcoming for everyone.

As part of the day’s events, the group also participated in a Special Olympics demo day, exploring a variety of activities and programs available to students. Some team favorites included basketball and miniature golf!

We’re excited to see what ideas come next—be on the lookout for a whole-school engagement activity coming soon!

Leadership Club participants included Aiden Hall, Will Hoke, Wyatt Meckley, and Callyan Murillo.

Four East Pennsboro High School students recently attended the 20th Annual Career & Transition Fair held at the Commonwealth Technical Institute’s Hiram G. Andrews Center in Johnstown. The students attended this event on Thursday, October 23rd. The event offered students valuable opportunities to explore career paths, learn about pre-employment transition services, and discover programs that support skill development and independent living.

The fair featured tours, displays, and demonstrations showcasing a variety of diploma, associate degree, and workplace skills training programs, including automotive technology, culinary arts, networking, early childhood education, and more. Students gained firsthand insight into careers and educational pathways that can help them prepare for success in the workforce.

Participation in events like this broadens students’ understanding of their options and equips them with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their futures.

On Thursday, October 23rd, several East Pennsboro High School students had the unique opportunity to tour the Piedmont Air Hangar at Harrisburg International Airport. During the visit, students learned about the many career paths available within the Aviation and Aerospace industries. The experience sparked their curiosity and inspired a greater appreciation for the exciting world of flight.

On Tuesday, October 28, Ms. Schaffer and Mrs. Miller accompanied 16 Link Crew Leaders to Hershey High School for the Student Link Conference. This exciting event brought together students from ten schools participating in the Link Crew program.

Throughout the day, our leaders learned new strategies for mentoring and connecting with younger students, while also participating in team-building activities and making new friends.

The trip sparked plenty of fresh ideas, and we look forward to continuing to grow and strengthen the Link Crew program at East Pennsboro High School!

Students interested in exploring hands-on career experiences are encouraged to contact Mr. Jeff Barlup for more information about upcoming opportunities. Upcoming programs include:

• Manufacturers’ Association Pre-Apprenticeship through the Partnership for Career Development (limited spots still available)
• Out-of-School Career Exploration: a multi-industry shadow experience and Girls in STEM Brunch on December 4th

These programs offer valuable exposure to real-world careers and professional networking experiences—don’t miss out!

Each month, the Mechanicsburg North Rotary Club honors two seniors from East Pennsboro High School who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and exemplary service to their school and community. Students are nominated by the East Pennsboro High School faculty for this distinction.

The Rotary Club recognizes two seniors each month from three local high schools, making this recognition a special honor for our students and school community.

Congratulations to Emily Beidleman and Kylie Roland, who were selected as East Pennsboro’s Rotary Students of the Month for October.

During the School Board Meeting held on Thursday, October 2nd, CPACTC students Ian Anders, Devlyn Hipple, Connor Yohe, and Sara Zourgani, along with Director Wolfe, shared insights about their studies, hands-on work experiences, and future post-secondary plans.

Their presentations highlighted the valuable opportunities available through the Cumberland Perry Area Career & Technical Center and the dedication of our students pursuing career-focused education.

Thank you to all of our students for representing East Pennsboro with pride and professionalism!

East Pennsboro High School seniors Ben Duncan and Connor Hacker were invited to attend the Level Up Career Readiness Symposium held at Shippensburg University on Wednesday, October 15th.

Ben and Connor participated in breakout sessions focused on key career skills, including résumé and interviewing techniques, skills that get you hired, emphasizing competencies employers value most, and networking without the awkwardness.

The sessions encouraged students to highlight their strengths, tell their story with confidence, and stand out to employers through powerful résumés and interview techniques that showcase their best selves.

Three East Pennsboro High School students—Demi Ajiborisha, Ella Miller, and Ashlyn Brysiak—participated in the Penn State Holy Spirit Hospital Health Careers Internship Program this semester. This program gives high school students an inside look at the wide range of professions within the healthcare field. Participants have the opportunity to shadow medical professionals, observe hospital operations, and learn about patient care in real-world settings. It’s an excellent experience for students considering future careers in medicine, nursing, or other health-related fields.

As we move further into the school year, it’s important to revisit our district’s approach to cell phones, earbuds, headphones, and other electronic devices during the school day. After nearly a generation of widespread smart technology use, the verdict is clear: while these devices offer many benefits, their misuse has become a significant concern.

At best, electronic devices often serve as distractions and create management challenges in the classroom. At worst, they can be platforms where harmful messages are shared or recorded, disrupting the learning environment and impacting student well-being. The overall cost has increasingly outweighed the benefits.

You may have seen that more schools nationwide are taking steps to limit student access to cell phones during school hours. Here at EPAHS, we are continuing a multi-year plan aimed at reducing distractions by prohibiting the use of cell phones during class, eliminating earbuds and headphones, and strictly enforcing rules against recording images or videos without permission.

We are committed to working closely with students and families throughout this process. Safety and communication remain priorities, and we will ensure that all are prepared for emergencies without reliance on personal devices.

Thank you for your support as we strive to maintain a focused, respectful, and safe learning environment for all Panthers.

The East Pennsboro Area High School PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) team continues to build on the success of last year’s program, promoting a positive and supportive school environment where students are recognized for demonstrating respectful, responsible, and safe behaviors.

Now in its second year, the PBIS program remains focused on helping students embody our core Panther POWER values—Preparedness, Ownership, Welcoming, Excellence, and Reliability. Staff members award Panther POWER tickets to students who model these behaviors throughout the school day. Tickets can be redeemed for individual prizes or contribute toward school-wide incentives.

In October, students earned a School-Wide Reward by showing consistent Panther POWER across the building. To celebrate, the entire student body enjoyed a “Hat Day”, where students were permitted to wear hats throughout the school day as a fun recognition of their positive behavior and school spirit.

The PBIS team is proud of the students’ efforts to make East Pennsboro Area High School a respectful, welcoming, and connected community—and looks forward to continuing to recognize Panther POWER in action each month!

Are you looking for adventure? Are you ready for the trip of a lifetime?

The Spanish & Environment Clubs invite you to join them exploring the breathtaking Galápagos Islands from June 10-20, 2026! This incredible opportunity is open to all EPHS students and staff.

The journey begins in Quito (June 10th & 11th), where you'll explore the city before heading to Tijeretas Bay (June 12th) to observe coastal wildlife. Enjoy snorkeling at La Loberia Beach (June 13th), followed by a guided hike on the Sierra Negra Volcano and a visit to a local ranch (June 14th & 15th). You'll also explore wetlands, the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, and the Darwin Research Station (June 16th & 17th). The adventure continues at Baltra Island via the Itabaca Canal, where you’ll witness the stunning Twin Craters (June 18th), before wrapping up the trip at La Mariscal artisan markets in Quito (June 19th and 20th).

This is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in another culture, practice Spanish, and learn about conservation efforts for some of the world’s most unique wildlife.

For more details and pricing, contact Señor Rice at mrice@epasd.org today!

Throughout the school week—and the year—our high school follows a variety of bell schedules to accommodate different events and needs. These include our Regular Bell Schedule, Friday Bell Schedule, Early Dismissal days, and, on occasion, 2-Hour Delay schedules (typically due to inclement weather).

Being familiar with each schedule helps students stay organized, on time, and ready for the day ahead. It’s also helpful for parents and guardians to keep these variations in mind when planning appointments, early dismissals, or other commitments.

Check out the graphic below to stay informed and plan ahead with confidence!

To help keep our morning drop-off process smooth and efficient, we kindly ask drivers to pull forward to the furthest point in the "drop off" lane when driving your students to school. This small step helps prevent traffic from backing up and keeps everyone moving safely and swiftly.

As a reminder, traffic tends to be lighter between 7:00 and 7:20 a.m. If you're able to arrive during that window, you may experience a quicker drop-off. Between 7:20 and 7:30 a.m., traffic increases significantly.

Please refer to the map below for the current drop-off route. We appreciate your cooperation and continued support in making mornings run safely and smoothly for all!

Beginning Monday, September 15, 2025, all student drivers must display a valid 2025–2026 EPAHS Parking Permit to park or drive on campus. Permits must be purchased before bringing a vehicle to school. Driving without a valid permit may result in your vehicle being ticketed.

Permit applications are available in the Athletic Office and can be picked up between classes or after school.

If you have any questions, please see Ms. Davis in the Main Office. Thank you for helping us keep our campus safe and organized!

At East Pennsboro Area School District, we believe strong communication between school and home is key to student success. That’s why we encourage all parents and guardians to create a Sapphire Parent Portal account.

Sapphire is the district’s online platform for keeping families informed about important aspects of their student’s school experience. With a Parent Portal account, you’ll have access to:

• Your child’s report cards when they are published

• Up-to-date attendance records

• Important notifications specific to your student

Creating an account is quick and easy—and it’s one of the best ways to stay engaged in your child’s academic progress and school life.

To create a parent portal account:

• Go to our website www.epasd.org
• Hover over the "Students" tab
• Click "Sapphire Community Web Portal"
• Click "Create a Web Portal Account"
• Follow the remaining on-screen instructions to enter your information.

If you have any questions or need assistance setting up your Parent Portal account, please contact Ms. Suzette Davis at sdavis@epasd.org She’ll be happy to help you get started.

As we settle into the school year, we want to thank the many Panther families who have already completed their yearly required forms in the Sapphire Parent Portal. These forms are essential for keeping student records up-to-date and ensuring a smooth, safe, and successful school year.

If you haven’t had a chance to complete them yet—it’s not too late!

The following forms must be submitted for each student:

• Code of Conduct & Handbook Sign-Off

• Required Information Update

• Annual Health Update

• Device Policies Acknowledgment

In addition, if your child’s transportation needs change throughout the school year, please be sure to submit the Transportation Change Request form in Sapphire as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing.

If you have any questions or need help accessing Sapphire, please reach out to Ms. Suzette Davis at sdavis@epasd.org

Thank you for partnering with us as we continue a great start to the 2025–2026 school year!

Student last names A-F (and CTC) -Mrs. Hillary Miller hmiller@epasd.org

Student last names G-O -Mrs. Christina Zeller czeller@epasd.org

Student last names P-Z (and Foreign Exchange Students) - Mr. Mark Bohlen mbohlen@epasd.org"

The Cumberland Perry Area Career & Technical Center (CPACTC) invites 7th through 11th grade students and their parents to attend Career Exploration Night on Wednesday, November 5, and Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.

This event is a fantastic opportunity for students to learn about programs that can help them earn college credits, gain industry certifications, and develop real-world skills for future success.

Students and families can explore a wide range of career pathways, including:

• Arts & Technology: Advertising, Art & Design, Computer Networking, Programming

• Health Sciences: Dental Assisting, Healthcare Pathways, Emerging Health Professionals

• Human Services: Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education

• Construction & Manufacturing: Carpentry, HVAC/R, Masonry, Welding, Advanced Manufacturing

• Transportation: Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Logistics & Warehouse Management

Parents are encouraged to talk with their students about their interests and consider attending Career Exploration Night together. It’s a great way to start conversations about future goals, hands-on learning, and the exciting programs offered through CPACTC.

For more information, visit the Cumberland Perry Area Career & Technical Center website (https://www.cpatech.org).

December 5th: First-round application deadline for CTC programs.

April 24th: Performance NOCTI Exams

• Mandatory testing date for students scheduled to take the exam.

• No make-up exam date available—attendance at CTC on this date is required.

The CPACTC 2025-2026 School Calendar is pictured below. Please utilize the link for more information concerning CPACTC scheduling and events.

https://www.cpatech.org/

Throughout September, October, and November, many colleges and universities will be visiting East Pennsboro Area High School to meet with interested students. These visits provide a fantastic opportunity for students to learn more about potential schools, ask questions, and gather information to help guide their post-secondary plans.

Parents are encouraged to talk with their students about these upcoming visits and the benefits of attending. To participate, students must sign up in advance through their Naviance account to secure a spot for each informational session.

Taking advantage of these college visits is a great way for students to explore their options and prepare for the next steps after high school. If you have any questions about the visits or the sign-up process, please contact the Counseling Office.

Thank you to all the parents and students who joined us on October 8th for our Financial Aid Information Night, hosted by a representative from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA). The presentation provided valuable information about FAFSA, scholarships, and other financial aid opportunities to help families plan for college expenses.

If you were unable to attend—or would like to review the information again—the presentation used during the event is available on the district website at epasd.org. From the homepage, select “Our Schools” → “High School” → “School Counseling” → “College and Career Development/Support.” At the bottom of the page, you’ll find a link to the “2025–26 PHEAA Financial Aid Night Presentation.”

We encourage parents and students to explore this resource and the many other valuable resources available on the District website under the Counseling page. The Counseling Office is always available to answer questions and provide support as you navigate the college planning and financial aid process.

This year, our school will recognize Children’s Grief Awareness Day on November 20. To show our support, all staff members are invited to participate in a casual day by wearing blue. This simple act helps raise awareness about the challenges grieving children face and underscores our commitment to providing a caring and understanding community for all students. We encourage families and community members to join us in honoring this important day.

High school students, please be sure to join your grade-level Google Classroom for more detailed announcements and opportunities shared by the Counseling Office:

• Class of 2026 (Seniors) – School Counseling Announcements
  Class code: ckcks7o

• Class of 2027 (Juniors) – School Counseling Announcements
  Class code: m6h62mn

• Class of 2028 (Sophomores) – School Counseling Announcements
  Class code: 7jk33oi

• Class of 2029 (Freshmen) – School Counseling Announcements
  Class code: jb6xq2oj

Parents, please ensure your student has joined the appropriate counseling Google Classroom to stay informed about important updates and opportunities.

Attention 11th Graders: Just a reminder that you are required to return Physical Exams for 11th grade to the Nurse when they are completed. A Meningitis vaccine is required for entry into 12th grade and this is usually given at your 11th grade physical. If you have questions, please contact the nurse at 717-287-8764 or bhawk@epasd.org.

Illnesses: If you are sick, stay home. You may be sent home if you show signs of a sore throat, headache, stomachache, or cough.

Medication Policy: If you need medications during the day, you will need to provide a doctor’s note stating that you need the medication during school hours. The medications should be brought In by an adult/guardian in the pharmacy-labeled container. Empty containers may be sent home with the students, but the refills will need to be brought in by the parent/guardian.

Vision and Hearing Screenings: Please check your student’s Sapphire account for updated Vision and Hearing screening results. If your student did not pass their screening, a notice will be posted in their account. Students who do not pass should obtain further evaluation. Once your child has completed an exam, please provide documentation of the results to the school nurse.

Parents/Guardians - Please remember you have the option to submit absence notes, doctor, tardy, early dismissal, and educational trip forms to our high school attendance mailbox at ephsattendance@epasd.org

EPAHS accepts attendance notifications (excuse cards, absence notes, etc.) via email. Parents can email ephsattendance@epasd.org as a means of reporting your child’s absence. Paper notes will still be accepted as well. A reminder that all excuse notifications are required to be submitted within three school days of your child’s absences.

Excused Absences:

When a child is enrolled in the district’s educational program, the student is subject to the

Pennsylvania State Attendance Laws. The Board considers the following conditions to constitute an excused absence from school:

1. Illness

2. Quarantine

3. Student required court attendance

4. Prearranged doctor and dentist appointment for the time of appointment and appropriate travel time only

5. Authorized school activities

6. Pre-approved educational tours and trips, not school-sponsored

7. Other urgent reasons, including funerals, that apply to the child and approved by the building administrator

Parents/guardians are expected to telephone the school when students are absent for any reason. In addition, a written excuse from a parent/guardian is required for each absence.

Unexcused Absences:

An unexcused absence shall be defined as:

• Absence from school with parent/guardian consent for reasons other than those considered

excusable.

• Leaving school during school hours without permission from the administrator.

• Absence from school without knowledge/permission of parent/guardian (truancy).

• Absence from school without knowledge/permission of school authorities.

• Absences from school without written parental excuse submitted within 3 school days of the absence.

Please refer to the Student Handbook to review more specific information about our attendance policies. Contact our school office if you have any questions about our attendance policies or procedures.

Automated Absence Alert:

The Automated Absence Alert system was implemented to inform parents when their students are absent from school. If/when your student is absent or does not report to their classroom they are recorded as absent. When the daily attendance is submitted electronically, an automated message will be sent to a phone identified by the parent/guardian. This call will normally occur by approximately 10:00 am. Should you have questions or concerns you may contact the attendance secretary by calling: East Pennsboro Area High School (EPAHS), at (717) 732-0723.

The Girls Tennis team enjoyed a strong season both individually and as a team. At the Mid-Penn Championships in early October, Chelsea Hoover finished as the #2 Singles AA Champion, and Sofie Fogleman earned #3 Singles. In doubles, Gabby Jovic & Mihaela Hristozova and Sophia Livingston & Emily Beidelman finished as runners-up.

In District postseason play, the team opened with a home victory over Pequea Valley before falling to Lancaster Catholic in the second round. Additionally, Grace Livingston and Chelsea Hoover qualified for the PIAA District 3 AA Girls Doubles Tournament, where they were eliminated in the first round but delivered a commendable performance.

Overall, the team’s hard work, talent, and spirit were evident throughout the season.

The Boys Soccer team had a strong season, earning a spot in the District 3 Playoffs. The team gave a strong effort in their opening-round game against ELCO. After regulation and two overtime periods, the match was decided by penalty kicks. The team’s dedication and effort throughout the season were commendable.

Congratulations to the team on a hard-fount season and a well-earned playoff berth!

The Girls Soccer team had an impressive season, earning a first-round home game in the District 3 Playoffs. In that opening-round match, the team secured a 1-0 victory over West Perry. The squad advanced to the second round of the District Playoffs, where they were defeated by Susquehannock.

Congratulations to the team for their dedication, strong teamwork, and outstanding postseason performance!

The Cross Country program was excited to see an increase in student participation this year.

The Girls Cross Country team qualified for the District 3 AA Championships, held on Saturday, October 25th. Cora Minnich earned 6th place, and Manseerat Kaur finished 20th—both qualifying for the PIAA Cross Country Championships in Hershey on November 1st.

Congratulations to Cora and Manseerat, and best of luck as they represent East Pennsboro at States!

The East Pennsboro Area High School Marching Band continued their strong season throughout October, showcasing their hard work, precision, and Panther pride.

On Saturday, October 25th, the band competed in the Mid-Atlantic Regional Competition held at Cedar Cliff High School. The ensemble earned an impressive 2nd place finish in their division and received special awards for Overall Effect and Overall Percussion—a reflection of the students’ dedication and the high quality of their performance.

The band will next compete at the PA State Championships on November 1st at Upper Moreland High School, followed by the National Championships at J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown, PA, on November 8th.

Congratulations to our Marching Band members and staff for their continued success and for proudly representing East Pennsboro with excellence and spirit throughout the season!

Students interested in participating in high school winter sports—including swimming, wrestling, bocce, and basketball—must complete enrollment by November 10th. Winter sports practices officially begin on November 14th.

Details on how to enroll, required forms, and physical examination information can be found on the district website at www.epasd.org under Departments → Athletics. Students and families are encouraged to submit all paperwork on time to be ready for the start of another exciting winter season of Panther athletics!

Open 24 hours for all of your EP Spirit needs!

There are two lunch sessions at EPAHS. Students can deposit lunch money into their accounts by putting it in an envelope in the main office or online with School Bucks. Our district partners with Chartwell’s K-12. Please visit our district’s food service page for more information, including information on free and reduced price meals.

We would like to remind our families that the National School Lunch program requires annual renewal for participation in the program. Every year, a new Free/Reduced Meal Application or renewal in COMPASS must be completed for every student. The program allows for a 30-school day carryover period for approved students from the previous school year. The rollover period for the 2025 – 2026 school year ends on October 2, 2025. Any student not on the approved list for the current school year will switch to a full pay student beginning on October 3, 2025. There are no exceptions to this date.

If you have already received an approval letter for the 2025 - 2026 school year, no further action is needed.

A renewal on the COMPASS website or an application must be completed for your student to participate in the Free/Reduced Meal program. A link and applications can be found on the school website: EPASD.org→ Parents & Guardians→ Free & Reduced Meals. Click the website link to fill out an application online (COMPASS) or fill out an application. Please contact the business office at amcbride@epasd.org, if you have any questions.

Click the link for a parent-friendly guide to navigating your student's Google Classroom.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1GSel8xwNYfbQhodBdogt9RC_TZpolTXb2TlZLQKwb_0/edit?usp=sharing

Did you know that in addition to accessing your student’s lunch account, you can also pay fees through MySchoolBucks?

If you have a newly enrolled student in grades 6-12, an invoice will be created for the initial device insurance fee. Please check your student’s account on MySchoolBucks.com. Please select School Store, then School Invoices to view all device invoices.

If your student has needed their device repaired, the insurance fee will cover the cost to repair the device. A new insurance fee will be applied to cover the cost of future incidents. Full details and payment information are available in our District’s 1:1 Device Guide. (epasd.org - parents & guardians - EPASD 1:1 Device Information - EPASD 1:1 Device Guide) To check your student’s account, please go to MySchoolBucks.com, select School Store, and then School Invoices to view all device invoices.

Payments can be mailed to the Administration Center: EPASD — Business Office, 890 Panther Parkway, Enola PA 17025. Please include the student number on the check.

The Cumberland County Library System is offering virtual tutoring sessions. Click the link for more information.

www.cumberlandcountylibraries.org/tutor

Email: tbianchi@epasd.org
Website: https://www.epasd.org/east-pennsboro-area-high-school/
Location: 425 West Shady Lane, Enola, PA, USA
Phone: 717-732-0723
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EastPennsboroAreaHigh/