NEWS FROM THE PANTHER DEN
Week 2 (2026-2027 School Year)
WEEK 2 REFLECTION
This is the second reflection in a seven part series on our "Navigate with Purpose" theme to kick off the year.
Our second PURPOSE focus asks us to look beyond ourselves: U is for Understanding Others. At the beginning of a school year, we spend a great deal of time learning names, schedules, routines, and expectations. But truly knowing someone requires something more. It requires us to listen, to be curious about another person's experiences, and to take the time to understand who they are as a person. The relationships we build with one another are at the heart of a strong school community.
That message was emphasized to the staff this week where our guest speaker, Jim Stroker, reminded us of the importance of building relationships with students from the very beginning. Before we can teach a student, we need to know the student. What are their interests? What motivates them? What challenges them? What matters to them? When students know that the adults around them see them, know them, and care about them, they are more likely to feel connected, supported, and ready to learn. Understanding others begins with taking the time to know the person behind the student.
This week, our community also pauses to remember the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. I know I will forever remember where I was that fateful day. I was walking down the hallway to room 412 to teach an Everyday Law class when I saw what was happening on a small television on the library. Twenty-five years later, we continue to remember the lives lost, the families forever changed, and the extraordinary acts of courage, compassion, and service that followed. September 11th reminds us that our differences can never be greater than our shared humanity. It reminds us of the importance of standing together, supporting one another, and recognizing the experiences that shape each person's story.
Our Profile of a Graduate compass reminds us that navigating our purpose is not a journey we take alone. Understanding others helps us become better classmates, educators, friends, leaders, and citizens. As we continue this school year, let us make the effort to listen a little more closely, respect perspectives that may be different from our own, and support those around us. When we take the time to understand one another, we create not only a stronger school, but a community that cares. A place where people know they belong. That is purpose I can believe in. #nocknation
PTHS RECOGNITION OF SEPTEMBER 11th
Today on our morning announcements Mr. Nancoz, a PTHS teacher, provided a firsthand account of his experience as an EMT for the West Essex First Aid Squad and how they responded on September 11th, 2001 It was a powerful and emotional account of the efforts made to assist those in need and give strength when it was needed most. Mr. Nancoz was followed by Mr. Hayzler who gave a speech to the PTHS faculty and students. Teachers also provided lessons and memories throughout the day as we recognized the 25th anniversary of that day. Mr. Hayzler's speech can be found here. Mr. Nancoz's remarks can be found here.
BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT
Matt led the team with tackles (14) and played a key role on offense, defense, and special teams
Jenna scoring the first goal of the season to lead Pequannock to the opening game win vs Kinnelon.
A cool drone shot taken by Mr. Nancoz
Paul gets ready for the throw in against Kinnelon
Coach Jim Stroker was the keynote speaker for the staff at their in-service day
Concert Band is underway
School Picture Day!
Our Allied Health students visit with Chilton Hospital for their orientation
Coach Fluri talking with Nick on the sideline before the play
Girls Tennis with their first "W" of the year
Field Hockey gets the "W"
Mr. Nancoz, our Aviation Teacher, provides a first hand account of his experience on 9/11 as an EMT to the students during the morning announcements
Our Aviation Academy learning about the response on 9/11 and air traffic that day
Mrs. Cohen discussing the impact of 9/11 on today's society
Dr. Diglio working with students developing their own ecosystems
Mrs. Brensinger helping a student pick out a book for choice reading
Mr. Kopp reviewing the student portfolio process for our STEM Academy students
Mrs. Savastano and Mrs. Hayzler collaborating in the media center. Teachers are always learning!
Allied Health students learning how to take blood pressure
Allied Health students learning to apply medical wrap
Pequannock Township High School
Email: attendance@pequannock.org
Website: www.pequannock.org
Location: 85 Sunset Road, Pompton Plains, NJ, USA
Phone: (973) 616-6000
