November 26, 2025

We're grateful for you!
As we head into Thanksgiving break, we want to share our gratitude for your partnership and the time spent during parent-teacher conferences. These conversations help us celebrate your child’s growth, plan next steps, and make sure we’re working together in support of every learner. 🧡
Giving Tree Update 🎁
Thank you to all who have already contributed to our Giving Tree. Your generosity directly supports Fern Hill families this holiday season. We will continue collecting donations through Friday, December 12 for anyone still interested in participating.
Thanksgiving Break Reminder 🦃
Schools are closed beginning Wednesday, November 26, and students return on Monday, December 1. We hope the long weekend brings rest, connection, and a well-deserved recharge before the busy weeks ahead.
Winter Concert ❄️🎶
We’re excited to kick off the holiday season together at our Winter Concert on Tuesday, December 2. Our students have been working hard, and we look forward to a festive evening celebrating their talent and joy.
Dr. Southmayd Needs Bingo Volunteers!
Each holiday season, Dr. Southmayd gives "The Gift of Time" to teachers as an opportunity to connect with their team for an off-site meal while Dr. Southmayd engages our bobcats in grade-level Bingo to get the Bingo vibes going for the PTO's Bingo Night in late January. Sign up to volunteer on December 16 here!
Wishing your family a warm, joyful, and restorative Thanksgiving break. We are grateful for you—and for the privilege of partnering in your child’s learning.
Upcoming Dates
Nov 27-28 - No School for Students - Thanksgiving Break
Dec 2 - Winter Concert at 7:00 at Fugett Middle School
Dec 8 - 23 - December Spirit Weeks!
Dec 23 - 1/2 Day for Students; 12:10 Dismissal
Dec 24 - Jan 2 - Winter Break - No School for Students
Jan 16 - Half Day for Students; Dismissal at 12:10pm
Jan 19 - Schools Closed
Jan 30 - PTO Bingo Night
Fern Hill's Guest Artist Day & Art Market!
Mrs. Jenkins is looking for artists and hobbyists to participate in Guest Artist Day and our very own Fern Hill Art Market! Being a professional artist is not required—anyone with a creative hobby is encouraged to join. We’re inviting individuals who enjoy artistic activities such as henna art, crocheting, photography, watercolor painting, and more to share their talents with our school community. If you or someone you know might be interested, please pass this information along and have them scan the QR code to fill out the interest form. Let’s celebrate the creativity that makes Fern Hill shine!
PTO News
Fern Hill Book Fair
Soar with dragons and frolic with fairies at our upcoming book fair! Get a head start on books, games, and more at literati.com/store. Our online store is already active and runs through 11/26. Then join us at the Everglow Forest: November 17th-26th in Fern Hill’s Library for the in-person part! Students will have the opportunity to preview and shop during the school day.
Families will have an opportunity to shop during conferences. Cash, check and digital gift cards are all accepted. If a family would like to participate in this activity and cannot due to financial means, please reach out to Lisa Baker, Fern Hill Caseworker at lbaker@wcasd.net by Monday November 17th.
2025-2026 Yearbook: On sale now
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!
Scan your receipts to earn BoxTops for Fern Hill
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!
Volunteer Clearances - Get a Jump Start!
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.
Planning a Vacation?
Fern Hill Elementary School
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