Take 5 with Dr. Friedman

Welcome to this week’s TAKE 5 with Dr. Friedman!

As we look ahead, this edition of the newsletter highlights important information regarding the upcoming weather event and what families can expect. We are also proud to celebrate our Portrait of a Graduate leaders, recognize school bus safety reminders, and spotlight the outstanding work of our staff through our Superintendent Spotlight.

In addition, you’ll find key event reminders to help you stay connected and informed.

Thank you for taking a few moments to stay engaged with all that’s happening across QCSD.

Dr. Matthew Friedman, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

With the incoming winter weather, the district encourages students and staff to be prepared.

Please ensure that all necessary instructional materials are taken home this weekend in the event instruction must occur remotely.

Stay safe out there, Panthers!

Click here for all the information you need in the event of inclement weather!

Each month, the Quakertown Community School District proudly shines a light on one outstanding individual from each of our schools — a teacher, staff member, or employee who goes above and beyond for our students, colleagues, and community.

Through the Superintendent’s Spotlight, we celebrate those who embody the spirit of QCSD: individuals whose dedication, compassion, and innovation help create an environment where every student can thrive. These are the people who make a difference every single day — inspiring others, fostering positive relationships, and contributing to the excellence that makes Quakertown a truly special place to learn, work, and grow.

This month, we've celebrated Mrs. Altner of Quakertown Elementary, Mrs. Adair-Babel of Trumbauersville Elementary, Mrs. Menszak of Neidig Elementary, and Mr. Sedlacsik of Strayer Middle School!

Our next Take 5 will include celebrations from the Sixth Grade Center, Pfaff Elementary, Richland Elementary, and the Quakertown Community High School!

To nominate a QCSD staff member, click HERE!

Keeping our students safe on and around our school buses is a shared responsibility among motorists, families, and students. Each day, school buses make frequent stops and operate in busy traffic, which requires extra awareness and patience from everyone on the road. By obeying school bus laws, slowing down in school zones, and staying alert when buses are operating, motorists play a critical role in preventing accidents. At the same time, students and families can support bus safety by following clear procedures at bus stops and on the bus—allowing drivers to do their jobs safely and ensuring every student arrives to and from school without incident.

Here are some helpful tips to keep you safe:

Reminders for motorists

- Stop for all flashing bus lights - don't go around or through

- Be prepared to stop when yellow lights start flashing
- Stay alert in the mornings and afternoons, when you know that school buses are on the road
- Allow extra space behind buses. Stopping distances are longer for buses and stops are frequent

- Remain stopped until students are on or off the bus

- Obey all school zone speed limits

Reminders for students and families

- Stand back until the bus is stopped and doors are open

- For students, stay seated until the bus is stopped and doors are open

- Arrive at your stop 5 minutes before pick up

- Walk at least 10 feet ahead of the bus so that the bus driver can see you ("10 foot rule")
- Make eye contact with the driver before crossing the street.
- Never chase the bus.
- Keep belongings and loose items secure.

- If something falls near the bus, tell the driver, don't just pick it up.

A Portrait of a Graduate is a shared vision developed with input from educators, families, students, and community members that defines the skills and attributes students need to succeed beyond the classroom.

Each month, the District proudly recognizes students who exemplify the skills outlined in our Portrait of a Graduate. At this month’s School Board meeting, teachers honored students in grades K–2 for their outstanding critical thinking skills, celebrating those who ask thoughtful questions, analyze information, and make well-reasoned decisions by considering multiple perspectives and possible solutions.

At the middle school level, students in grades six through eight were recognized for their strong problem-solving skills. These students were celebrated for their ability to identify challenges, think critically, and take purposeful action toward effective solutions.

At the high school level, Students of the Month—one student per grade—were recognized for going above and beyond through academic achievement and active involvement in their school and community. These students exemplify the qualities of the Portrait of a Quakertown Graduate.

Congratulations to our Portrait Leaders, and thank you for your continued hard work!

The Quakertown Community School District has been recognized by the Pennsylvania Positive Behavior Support (PaPBS) Network for achieving Tier 1 and Tier 2 implementation levels. This acknowledgment reflects the district’s continued commitment to fostering positive, supportive, and inclusive learning environments for all students.

The PaPBS Network is a statewide initiative that supports Pennsylvania schools in implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Through training, coaching, and technical assistance, the network helps schools improve student behavior, academic outcomes, and social-emotional well-being using data-driven systems and evidence-based practices.

PaPBS provides:

• Training and coaching for educators to effectively implement PBIS

• Technical assistance to support the development of strong behavior support systems

• System-level support to build and sustain positive school climates

• Recognition for schools demonstrating successful PBIS implementation
  
  

The framework emphasizes School-Wide PBIS, Program-Wide PBIS in early childhood settings, and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support that integrate behavioral and academic interventions.

This recognition highlights the dedication of QCSD staff, students, and families to creating safe, respectful, and engaging learning environments where every student can succeed.

Welcome, Class of 2039! Families of future kindergarteners—save the date!

QCSD is hosting a Kindergarten Registration Parent Information Session to help you prepare for your child’s big first step into school.

DATE: Wednesday, January 28

Learn how to register your child for Kindergarten, what to expect in the year ahead, and how QCSD supports our youngest learners. Eligibility: Children must be 5 years old on or before August 31, 2026 to enroll for the 2026–2027 school year. Important: Registration must be completed by May 31, 2026 to guarantee placement in your neighborhood school.

Click here for more details:

https://tinyurl.com/ysumjrd9

We can’t wait to welcome our newest Panthers!

The Harlem Wizards will bring their high-energy, family-friendly basketball show to Quakertown Community High School on February 27, 2026, for an evening of fun, humor, and audience interaction for all ages. Known for their exciting blend of basketball skills and entertainment, the Wizards promise a memorable community event for students, families, and fans alike.

Tickets are on sale NOW! Click HERE to purchase!

The event is proudly sponsored by the Pfaff PTO.