MJHS Monthly Newsletter

Dear MJHS Families,

As we move into April, I want to take a moment to reflect on and celebrate an important milestone—two years serving as your building principal. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such an outstanding community. Our staff’s dedication, our students’ growth, and the unwavering support from our families make MJHS a truly special place. Thank you for the trust, partnership, and pride you bring to our school each day. Looking forward to our future together!

Together, we continue striving toward a shared vision: to be among the very best—not just in our region, but across the state and even the nation. That level of excellence comes from a collective commitment to high expectations, strong relationships, and a belief in what our students can achieve.

As we enter the spring testing season, I also want to emphasize the importance of the upcoming PSSA and Keystone Exams. These assessments are an opportunity for our students to demonstrate their learning and for our school to showcase the strong academic energy that defines MJHS. We ask for your support in encouraging your child to take these exams seriously and to put forth their very best effort.

A few simple reminders can make a big difference:

• Please ensure your child gets a good night’s sleep before testing days.

• Encourage them to eat a healthy breakfast.

• Remind them to stay positive, focused, and confident in their abilities.

We believe in our students, and we know they are capable of great things.

Let’s work together to motivate and support them so they can truly shine.

Thank you again for being such an important part of the MJHS community.

Sincerely,
Chris Becker
Building Principal
MJHS

Please see the attached memos about the PSSA test dates for 7th and 8th graders and the Keystone test dates for 9th graders and some 8th graders. The memo

English Language Arts PSSA Grade 7 & 8 Testing Dates: Monday, April 20, 2026-Mod 1, Tuesday, April 21, 2026-Mod 2, Wednesday, April 22, 2026-Mod 3

Math PSSA Grade 7 & 8 Testing Dates: Monday, April 27, 2026-Mod 1, Tuesday, April 28, 2026-Mod 2

Science Grade 8 Testing Dates: Wednesday, April 29, 2026-Mod 1, Thursday, April 30, 2026-Mod 2

Algebra Grade 9 Testing Dates: Monday, May 11, 2026-Mod 1, Tuesday, May 12, 2026-Mod 2

Biology Grade 9 Testing Dates: Wednesday, May 13, 2026-Mod 1, Thursday, May 14, 2026-Mod 2

***Students at MJHS who are not testing (grade 9 during ELA/Math PSSA, grade 7 & 9 during Science PSSA, grade 7 & 8 during grade 9 Keystone) are approved to arrive at school by 10:00 AM for all testing days. Buses will only pick up students at normal times; however, if you wish your student to arrive late on these dates, they are excused. Any questions regarding state testing can be directed to Dr. Scoboria, School Assessment Coordinator.

Muhlenberg Junior High School

As spring approaches, we’re seeing warmer weather, more outdoor activities, and the start of

allergy season. Staying healthy helps to stay focused and ready to learn. Things to keep in mind:

Spring Allergies

Seasonal allergies are common this time of year. Symptoms may include sneezing, congestion,

itchy/watery eyes, headaches, and sore throat.

If your child requires allergy medication during the school day:

 Medication must be in the original labeled container.

 Required forms must be completed and on file with the health office.

Please remind students not to share medications.

Illness Reminder

To help prevent the spread of illness:

 Keep your child home for a fever of 100.4°F or higher.

 Students must be fever-free for 24 hours (without medication) before returning.

 Encourage frequent handwashing.

When to Contact the School Nurse

Please notify the health office if:

 Your child has a new diagnosis.

 There are changes in medications.

 Medication is needed at school.

 You have questions about immunizations or health requirements.

Thank you for helping us protect the well-being of all students. If you have concerns or need guidance, feel free to

reach out to the school nurse anytime.

Berks Junior County Chorus

Congratulations to the following students who qualified for Berks Junior County Chorus! These students competed against over 325 other students from 17 school districts in Berks County.

Soprano 1:

Madyson Shiller Riegel- 4th place

Ella Stettler- 8th place

Kennedy Althouse

Aubrey Moyer

Soprano 2:

Aria Skelly

Alto 1:

Alison Fox

Alto 2:

Victoria Tambo

Victoria Fredericks

Lexy Cabrera Echevarria

Lexi Evans

Clarissa Alvarado Mejia

Tenor:

Yosniel Santiago Santiago- 10th place

Isaiah Avery

Bass:

Owen Fox- 7th place

Liam Kadas

Piano:

Victoria Tambo- Ranked #1!

Music Festival Recap

The Music Festival on March 7th in the MHS gymnasium was a lively celebration of “American Music,” honoring our nation as we approach America’s 250th birthday. The concert featured performances by the 7th Grade Band, 8th/9th Grade Band, 7th–9th Grade Concert Chorus, Gold Tones, and Blue Groove Jazz Band. The bands performed themed selections like "Sons of Liberty", "Sousa Spectacular", a "Wicked" medley, and "American Declaration". Choral highlights include "Hamilton Highlights", "Round the Riverside", and “I’m Still Standing”. All of the music that was performed brought energy and meaning that made the evening a memorable celebration of American music and student achievement.

Jazz Band Update

The Jazz Band is in the middle of an exciting jazz season! They performed at the Oley Jazz festival, the Kutztown Jazz Festival, the Conrad Weiser Jazz Festival, and at Berks Jazz Fest. They received solo awards and section awards at all the jazz festivals that they’ve gone to. Additionally, they continue to receive “Superior” ratings everywhere they go. Future performances include the Hank Hoffman Jazz Festival at Muhlenberg high school on April 17th, the Muhlenberg Township Lunchtime Concert in the Park at Jim Dietrich Park on Thursday, April 23, and FirstEnergy Stadium on Friday, May 8th before the Fightin’ Phils game.

We are incredibly proud of all your dedication, hard work, and the effort you put in both inside and outside of the classroom. Your commitment to excellence truly shows, and you continue to set a great example for others.

Keep working hard, striving for your goals, and making us proud. The best is yet to come!

Miss Bolman is the newest edition to the Muhlenberg Team. She has joined our 8th grade social studies team and we are so excited to have her. She has a passion for social studies and is looking forward to providing meaningful and engaging instruction. In her free time she enjoys traveling, reading classic literature, and creating vintage inspired clothing. Welcome to MJHS!

Thank you, Ms. Cuesta for all that you do for our staff and students!

March 7, 2026

Thank you to all of the MSD Buildings and Grounds crew to keep our campus clean and functional!

Meredith has been a huge asset to the Social Studies Department since joining MJHS last year, and she is so deserving of this Thanks a Latte recognition! She is a fantastic teacher who works hard every single day to ensure her students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed. Her dedication to creating a positive and engaging classroom environment does not go unnoticed. Always willing to lend a hand, Meredith is a supportive colleague who brings a wealth of experience, creativity, and enthusiasm to MJHS. She consistently goes above and beyond, whether it is collaborating with teammates, helping students one-on-one, or contributing to the school community in meaningful ways. Her lessons are dynamic and thoughtfully designed, encouraging students to think critically and push themselves to do their very best. Meredith truly embodies the spirit of Thanks a Latte --- We appreciate you more than words can express. Thank you for everything you do to make MJHS such a great place for both staff and students!

Major Campbell was an education, a leader, and a mentor who dedicated himself to helping students grow in character, responsibility, and service to others. He positively influenced the lives of many of our students and was a valued member of our school community. He has left his mark on the Muhlenberg family.

For all students, parents, guardians, and family members who would like to celebrate the induction of the 2026 chapter of the Muhlenberg National Junior Honor Society.

Please join us at Muhlenberg High School, located at 40 Sharp Ave, Reading, PA. The game begins at 5:00 PM and the doors will open at 4:00 PM. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance. Information on ticket sales is forthcoming.

Please review MJHS policies and procedures for the 2025-2026 school year.

Help us set your students up for success!

Contact Info

Muhlenberg Junior High School

Principal: Mr. Chris Becker

Grade 7 Asst. Principal: Dr. Joe Scoboria

Grade 8 Asst. Principal: Mr. Josh Rankin

Grade 9 Asst. Principal: Ms. Michele Weaver

Dean of Students: Mr. Matthew Coldren

Social Worker: Ms. Lillianna Moore

Website: https://www.muhlsdk12.org/Domain/10

Facebook: @Muhlenberg Junior High School

Twitter: @CB_Principal