Neshaminy Update
Neshaminy School District / September, 2023
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The Board of the Neshaminy Education Foundation announced that they will be funding seven grants in the amount of $16,848 for their annual classroom school grant program. The purpose of the grants is to foster innovation in Neshaminy schools and provide resources that are not otherwise available.
Congratulations to the following Neshaminy staff members who submitted winning grant proposals:
- Nora Cosenza, Nancylyn Cochran and Lauren Chakler / Joseph Ferderbar Elementary School: "De-escalating behavior in Kindergarten" skills books for enhance social-emotional learning. $220.90
- Dominic Foti and David Wert / Poquessing Middle School: "Earthquake Simulator, Designing Structures" equipment to test the stability of structure models. $1,750.00
- Kati Burke / Maple Point Middle School: "Junior Great Books - A Shared Inquiry of Learning" for Academic Enrichment classes. $1,151.80
- Julie Szaramiak / Neshaminy High School: "Sustainable Gardening" hydroponic gardening for life skills classes. $3,000.00
- Thomas Fresco / Neshaminy High School: "Reverse Engineering" Bambu Lab H2D advanced 3-D printer for technology engineering class. $3,199.99
- Tori Golden / Neshaminy High School: RealityWorks Real Care Baby Simulator for Child Development classes. $3,754.01
- Kerry Hammon and the biology staff / Neshaminy High School: "Sensemaking Manipulatives in the Biology Classroom" modeling kids (cell structure, genetics, heredity modeling sets). $5,028.24
The foundation is pleased to provide educational materials and resources for Neshaminy schools through these grants using the funds raised from our supportive Neshaminy community. The foundation will also be once again funding five $1,000 scholarships for graduating Neshaminy High School seniors this year for their post-secondary education. Applications for the scholarship are available at the Neshaminy High School Counseling Center.
The Neshaminy Education Foundation was founded in 1993 as part of the Neshaminy's Strategic Plan. It is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization operated by a board of volunteers. The NEF generally meets on the second Monday of each month, 4 pm at the district offices at Maple Point (the February meeting will be held Monday, February 2).
After several years of relatively quiet winters, snow, ice and cold temperatures appear to be back in fashion as arctic weather has made a return to the area. After a smaller winter storm the previous weekend, on Sunday, January 25 nearly a foot of snow fell in the Philadelphia region along with some sleet and ice. At the same time temperatures plunged to record lows. The Neshaminy Facilities Department began preparing for the storm days in advance, loading up with three loads of rock salt and preparing fourteen snowplows and other equipment. On Friday the plows were moved indoors to the Neshaminy Transportation Garage. On Sunday morning as the snow began to fall, the snow crews moved the trucks to each building and began the two-day process of clearing roadways, sidewalks and other areas throughout the storm. On Monday a group of bus drivers helped to clear snow from over 100 school buses (which had to be moved so their parking lot could be cleared). Students and staff enjoyed the first real "snow day" of the school year on Monday. By Tuesday morning, the Neshaminy facilities were ready to go, and the district opened after a two-hour delay.
We're not even halfway done with winter yet! Here is a reminder of Neshaminy's inclement weather procedures:
- Weather alerts will be shared by email, text alerts, Neshaminy district and school websites, and the district Facebook page. School closures and delayed openings will also be shared with local TV stations (CBS-3, ABC-6, NBC-10, FOX-29).
- All Neshaminy parents and guardians are urged to check their contact information in Home Access Center to ensure they are receiving communications. When winter weather is predicted, please check frequently for updates and alerts.
Two-hour delay starting times are as follows:
- Neshaminy High School: 9:16 am
- Middle Schools: 9:55 am
- Elementary Schools: 11:10 am
The Neshaminy community will be notified as early as possible for early dismissals and afternoon and evening activities cancellations. Depending on the circumstances, students will be dismissed on one of the following schedules:
- Early Dismissal Plan A (with lunch): Neshaminy High School: 11:30 am, Middle Schools: 12:15 pm, Elementary Schools: 1:00 pm
- Early Dismissal Plan B (without lunch): Neshaminy High School: 10:00 am, Middle Schools: 10:30 am, Elementary Schools: 11:00 am
Neshaminy Kids Club before- and after-school follows the district lead but issues their own weather alerts. Private school transportation will not be provided when Neshaminy schools are closed due to inclement weather.
The first two inclement weather closures of the school year will be traditional "Snow Days" with no online learning expectations. So far, we have called one of these days (Monday, January 26). For information about snow days and online learning, click here.
Friday, February 13 is a half-day for Neshaminy students. A grab-and-go lunch will be available to students in grades K-8 on that day (the high school will have extended breakfast availability that day). If you want your student(s) to have this lunch, please fill out an order form for each student here:
Half-Day Lunch Order Form (02-13-2026)
The cost per meal is $2.80 for Elementary Schools, $3.35 for Middle Schools, $0.00 reduced & free for students who qualify for free meals. Meals can be paid using lunch accounts, cash or checks made payable to Neshaminy School District. All students, including those participating in Free & Reduced Meal Program, should use this order form. The deadline for submitting an order is Monday, February 9.
Neshaminy School District is pleased to offer two rebate programs to help senior homeowners and volunteer firefighters living in the district reduce their property taxes:
The Irene Boyle Senior Tax Assistance Program: The 2025 Neshaminy School District Property Tax Assistance Program begins in January 2026. This program has been created to provide property tax relief to our Neshaminy senior citizens. Homeowners who reach the age of 65 by December 31, 2025, are eligible to apply. For more information please click here.
Volunteer Firefighter Tax Assistance Program: Volunteer firefighters that meet guidelines for service hours and who reside in the district are eligible for a service tax credit rebate. More information and an application form can be found here.
NEW BOARD POLICIES ADDRESS SCHOOL SAFETY, ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
In November the full School Board approved the addition of eleven revised policies and two new policies. The first of the new policies (Policy 805) addresses school safety, reflecting the district's ongoing efforts to review safety procedures, increase a strong working relationship with local, county and state law enforcement and emergency responders, and keep up with best practices and technology related to school safety.
"The Board recognizes its responsibility for the safety of students, staff, visitors and facilities. Therefore, the Board shall provide facilities, equipment and training necessary to protect against hazards and emergencies, including but not limited to natural disasters, hazardous chemicals, fires, weapons, bomb threats, intruders, terrorism, communicable diseases and pandemics. Advance planning, training, practice and comprehensive implementation are key components in protecting the safety and security of the school community."
The policy outlines expectations, training and drill procedures, and solidifies procedures for monitoring the Safe2Say anonymous threat reporting system, which was introduced in the district six years ago.
The second new policy (Policy 815.1) concerns generative artificial intelligence (AI). Over the past few years AI has exploded in use at workplaces, schools and homes around the world. The nascent technology offers both unparalleled possibilities in almost every human endeavor along with tremendous challenges. AI in schools promises more personalized, engaging learning for every student, but it also challenges educators and students to use it ethically and thoughtfully.
According to the policy, "The district recognizes the potential that Generative Artificial Intelligence (Generative AI) offers in enhancing educational opportunities, streamlining operations and preparing students for a future that demands adaptability, critical thinking and digital literacy. When incorporated and used in a responsible and ethical manner, Generative AI can support a dynamic working and learning experience."
The policy addresses privacy, safety and ethical concerns related to AI and sets up a framework for its use by staff and students. Included in this framework are expectations for academic integrity, staff training and monitoring procedures.
- Thursday-Sunday, February 5-8: NHS School Musical (The Addams Family). Details at www.neshaminy.org/musical. See article below.
- Friday, February 13: Half day for students, Act 80 day.
- Monday, February 16: Presidents Day, district closed
- Tuesday, February 17: Winter break, schools closed, Act 80 day
- Friday, February 20: MiniTHON, Neshaminy HS, 3-9 pm
- Friday-Saturday, February 27-28: Gym Night 2026 at NHS, Gym 3
- Saturday, March 14, 7 pm: Harlem Wizards at NHS Gym 3, www.neshaminy.org/wizards
- Wednesday, April 15, 6:30-8:30 pm: STEAM Expo, NHS (see article below)
- Friday, May 8, 7 pm: 6th Annual SUNSet Challenge 2K/5K, Maple Point MS, details at www.sunsetchallenge.org
For updated event and sports information please see the district and school website calendars.
The 2026 Neshaminy STEAM Expo will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at Neshaminy High School. Since it was founded in 2015, this celebration of all things Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math has grown to become one of the most beloved and well-attended educational events in the district and a great night for students and their families.
We are looking for community individuals, businesses and organizations who would like to share their STEAM expertise with the next generation to join the 2026 Expo as presenters. Please contact Melissa Campbell, melissacampbell@neshaminy.org for more information and to sign up.
Registration for the 2026-2027 school year is now open. Parents and guardians of new Neshaminy students should begin the process online by visiting www.neshaminy.org/register. Be sure to use the "Register a Student for Next Fall (2026-2027)" link on the registration page.
Parents and guardians of students entering grades 5 and 9 at the start of the 2026–2027 school year will be asked to review and update their residential and contact information. This routine re-registration process supports accurate student records and helps ensure smooth transitions, appropriate school placement, transportation, services, staffing, and resource planning for the upcoming school year.
The District uses the Home Access Center (HAC) for this process. Families are encouraged to ensure their information in HAC is current and accurate in advance to help avoid access issues when the process launches in March 2026. If you have difficulty accessing your HAC account, please contact your child’s school for assistance.
STUDENT SERVICES
Families are encouraged to visit the district website for information about the following important services and policies:
- Special Education Services
- Gifted Students
- Services for Protected Handicapped Students
- Destruction of Records
- Medical Assistance
- Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
MEAL ASSISTANCE
Families in need of food assistance can take advantage of the following resources:
The Bucks County Opportunity Council Food Program
721 Veterans Highway
Bristol, PA 19007
Ph: 215-781-2661
đź”— Food Program: https://bcoc.org/food-program/
đź”— Food Pantries: https://bcoc.org/food-pantries/
The Bucks County HUB (“Live” Human Services Directory)
Phone: 215-348-6201
Monday - Friday, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
đź”— Contact the Hub
The United Way 211 Helpline
Phone: Call 211
đź”— https://www.211.org/
REDUCE ILLNESS AND BOOST ATTENDANCE!
During the winter, families and friends spend more time indoors. This can make common illnesses easier to spread. To help reduce illness and keep students in school, please remember these best practices:
- Handwashing: Regular handwashing at home and school helps prevent the spread of many illnesses. Teaching and practicing proper handwashing lowers the chance of germs spreading.
- Respiratory Etiquette: Teach children to cover their mouths and noses with a tissue when they cough or sneeze. Throw used tissues in the trash right away. If a tissue is not available, students and staff should cough or sneeze into their elbow, not their hands. Hands should be washed right after blowing the nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- Vaccinations: Staying up to date with recommended vaccinations is important for preventing illness and reducing the risk of severe disease. School vaccination requirements help protect students from vaccine-preventable diseases. Information about required school immunizations is available at the NSD vaccination website.
The 6th Annual SUNset Challenge 2K/5K running race will be held on Friday, May 8 at Maple Point Middle School. Registration will open on Tuesday, February 3 - sign up early and SAVE! Early bird discounts apply until February 28. Join hundreds of other Neshaminy families and friends from all around the district for this great evening race. Plus lots of extras including race t-shirts, music, food, giveaways and more. All runners will be chipped and the race digitally timed. Don't miss out on this great Neshaminy race, register today at www.sunsetchallenge.org
As families and visitors walk through Joseph Ferderbar ES, they are greeted by a cheerful winter wonderland created by the hard work and creativity of the staff and students. Hallways have been transformed into a welcoming seasonal space filled with snowflake-themed wallpaper, smiling snowmen, and delicate snowflakes hanging from the ceiling.
Students eagerly participated in decorating, adding their own personal touches and creativity to the displays. Teachers and staff worked alongside them to bring the theme to life, making the hallways feel festive, bright, and inviting during the winter months.
These decorations do more than add seasonal charm—they help create a positive atmosphere where students feel proud of their school and excited to come each day.
Seussical, Jr. at Maple Point MS
Into the Woods Jr. at Carl Sandburg MS
Willy Wonka Jr. at Poquessing MS
Neshaminy High School artists were well represented at two shows that opened in January. The AOY Art Center Emerging Artists Annual Art Show in Yardley was open for two weekends, January 17-18 and 24-25. Twenty-two Neshaminy HS artworks including paintings, ceramic pottery and sculpture, were on display. Neshaminy artists are also represented at the Phillips Mill Youth Art Exhibition, open weekends until February 15. The artworks from that show are also on display on their website, www.phillipsmill.org.
Two students earned honorable mentions in the shows: Haylee Naylor at Artists of Yardley and Ava Kendig at Phillips Mill.
Neshaminy High School drama students participated in the annual Pennsylvania ThesFest held January 2-4 in Allentown. Kami Breault, Sam Orleski and Memphis Hansen were all inducted into the Thespian Hall of Fame, Max Von Euw was recognized as an All Star Cast Member for his performance in Booby Trap, Max and Daphne Sucevic won First Place in the Improv Competition. Both Sam and Kami were awarded performance scholarships.
Kami completed her term as a State Thespian Officer while McKenzie Johnston was elected as a new State Thespian Officer. The students participated in workshops, attended several shows and had the opportunity to interact with many of their fellow thespians from around the state.
Students in the NHS Interact Club made fleece blankets that will be donated to the United Way for distribution to families in need. Additionally, Kate Sample and Kim Hearn from Sunshine Foundation came to introduce them to their new "Dreamer", Julia. Julia's dreams of meeting the princesses at Disney World at this year's Neshaminy's Got Talent which will take place on Tuesday, March 31.
Members of the NHS Orchestra enjoyed a performance by the Philadelphia Orchestra of selections from the movies Fantasia and Fantasia 2000 at the Kimmel Center in Center City Philadelphia on January 3. Much of the soundtrack for the original Disney classic was recorded in 1939 just a block away at the Academy of Music by the Philadelphia Orchestra under the direction of Leopold Stokowski.
Mr. Richard Carragher visited 11th-grade history classes on January 6 to share his experiences serving in the Vietnam War. His visit gave students a powerful opportunity to connect their classroom learning to real-life experiences as they listened to firsthand accounts of events they had recently studied. Mr. Carragher first spoke with Neshaminy students four years ago, when his granddaughter Juliana was enrolled in Mrs. Baniewicz’s Contemporary U.S. and World History class, and he has generously returned each year since. This year’s visit was especially meaningful, as his other granddaughter, Natalie, is currently a student in Mrs. Baniewicz’s class and had the chance to hear her grandfather share stories he had never before shared with his family.
