East Pennsboro Area High School

“Where are we going?” It’s a common question asked at the beginning of any journey or endeavor. At EPAHS this year, the question implies that we should have a clear destination, benchmarks to reflect our progress, and a contingency plan for when things don’t go exactly as expected.

“Where have we been?” is an equally powerful question. So far, we’ve seen positive energy throughout our school—evident in students’ interactions with one another and with their teachers, a successful competition season for both our athletic and music groups, and the dedicated efforts of Link Crew and others to help ninth graders transition to high school—no small feat.

Each monthly newsletter offers just a small snapshot between the questions “Where have we been?” and “Where are we going?” Throughout the year, you’ll read and see updates on our progress toward the outcomes we’ve set. In addition to the academic and achievement-related goals we have for students, we aspire to engage with students and families in more tangible ways. We are strengthening systems that support student leadership and mentorship, while also redefining how the administration interacts with student leaders. At the same time, we are gathering input to better understand the urgent issues on parents’ minds during their children’s adolescent years. Each month, whether through this newsletter or separate communications, we will share progress toward these goals that ultimately support the growth, development, and learning of our students as they prepare for their futures.

When pressed with a big life decision, my father always recited his favorite “Yogi-ism” (from former New York Yankee great Yogi Berra) to me: “When you come to a fork in the road, take it.” Here’s to a school year filled with opportunities and fulfilled potential.

Dr. Bianchi

• October 3 – Coffee Friday – 1st of the School Year
• October 8 – Financial Aid Information Night for Parents (6PM)
• October 13 – In-service Day (Act 80) – No School for Students / CTC also closed
• October 14 – Special Olympics held at High School
• October 15 – PSAT/NMSQT 11th Grade Testing Administration
• October 17 – End of First Marking Period
• October 21 – High School National Honor Society Ceremony
• October 22 & 23 – CTC Student Remote Learning Day
• October 24 – Early Dismissal for Students
• October 24 – CTC End of Marking Period 1

EPAHS kicked off the year with a brand-new tradition—Link Crew—a program that pairs juniors and seniors with incoming freshmen to ease the transition to high school.

On the first day, Link Leaders welcomed the Class of 2029 with high-energy activities including a silent line-up challenge, a Life Story activity, and writing a letter to their future selves.

The goal: build connections, boost confidence, and make every 9th grader feel at home.

Throughout the year, Link Leaders will continue mentoring freshmen, fostering community and school spirit.

Want to see the day in action? Catch the excitement in the below EP Media highlight video of the Freshmen Link Crew event.

Back row (L–R): Haydn Lay, Mason Poventud, Turner Barlup, Brogan Barlup, Thomas McMichael, Ian Aunkst, and Raja Adam.

Front row (L–R): Emily Beidelman, Ella Miller, Ashlyn Brysiak, Gabby Jovic, Giana Boyd, Natalie Pinti, and Addison Beane.

East Pennsboro students and staff showed up in style for this year’s Homecoming Spirit Week, bringing school pride and creativity to the halls every day!

• Monday kicked things off with Class Color Day—a rainbow of Panther pride with freshmen in green, sophomores in purple, juniors in blue, and seniors rocking red.

• On Tuesday, students and staff dressed for comfort (and comedy) on Adam Sandler Day, showing off oversized tees, basketball shorts, and sneakers.

• Wednesday brought a pop of pink for Mean Girls Day—because "On Wednesdays, we wear pink."

• Things got competitive on Thursday for Country vs. Country Club Day, with cowboy boots facing off against polos and pearls.

• The week wrapped up with a sea of orange and black on Friday as students and staff proudly showed their Panther Pride just in time for Homecoming festivities.

From start to finish, the spirit was strong, the outfits were bold, and the Panther pride was undeniable!

On Friday, September 26th, the Class of 2026 gathered bright and early in the high school parking lot for the annual Senior Sunrise. Beginning at 6:45 a.m., seniors came together to share donuts, coffee, and a peaceful moment as the sun rose on the final Homecoming of their high school journey. It was a simple but meaningful way to connect, reflect, and kick off an exciting day of Homecoming festivities.

On Friday, September 26, 2025, during the early dismissal day, East Pennsboro students came together for a spirited Homecoming Pep Rally that set the tone for an exciting weekend.

The festivities kicked off with the band and cheerleaders parading through the halls, playing lively tunes and rallying classmates to join the fun in the gym. As students filled the gym, the band kept the energy high with continuous performances while the cheerleaders wowed the crowd with an energetic routine.

The spotlight then turned to the Homecoming court, who were introduced and showed off a brief dance that had everyone clapping along.

The heart of the rally was a thrilling games competition featuring pairs from the nine fall sports and activities. Each round saw one pair eliminated, but not before their team captains gave shout outs about their season highlights and upcoming games or events. The games included:

• Round 1: Tennis Ball Race – the last pair to cross the finish line were out

• Round 2: Limbo – the first pair to both fall was eliminated

• Round 3: Potato Sweeping – last pair past the finish line eliminated

• Round 4: Spoon Game – the pair without a spoon were eliminated

• Round 5: Hungry Hungry Hippo – the pair with the fewest tennis balls eliminated

• Round 6: Oreo on the Face – last pair with uneaten Oreos were out

• Round 7: Cup Game – best of three rounds; losing two rounds meant elimination

The rally wrapped up with the hosts pumping up the crowd for the big football game that evening and the Homecoming dance set for Saturday night, leaving Panthers fired up and ready to celebrate.

During our Homecoming Pep Rally, EPAHS was thrilled to be recognized as the sole winner of the T-Mobile Friday Night Lights award in our region! Thanks to this generous grant, our stadium will receive new speakers—an exciting upgrade that will enhance future events.

A big thank you to T-Mobile for supporting our Panthers and to everyone who helped make the rally a great kickoff to Homecoming weekend!

Interim grade reports for Marking Period 1 were posted to Parent Sapphire Portal accounts on Friday, September 26, 2025. With the marking period ending on October 17th, now is a great time to check in and see how your student is progressing this school year.

Rehearsals are in full swing for this year’s fall play, Alice@Wonderland! Under the direction of Mr. Durika, our talented cast and crew started preparing during the month of September to bring this modern twist on the classic tale of Alice in Wonderland to life. Filled with laughter, creativity, and fun for all ages, the show is sure to be a highlight of the season.

Before their premiere, students will showcase their Panther Pride as they participate in both Pumpkin Fest and the Halloween Parade.

Mark your calendars for showtimes:

· Thursday, November 13 at 7:00 PM

· Saturday, November 15 at 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
All performances will take place in the EPAHS auditorium.

In addition, the production team is seeking artists, clothing specialists, and builders to help with creating costume pieces and props. Anyone interested should contact Mr. Durika by October 1 so the work can begin.

Don’t miss your chance to see the magic of Alice@Wonderland come alive on stage this fall!

Congratulations to High School Art teacher and Yearbook advisor, Ms. Hanna Schaffer, who has been named the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Teacher Award, sponsored by Shippensburg University!

Ms. Schaffer’s dedication to her students and her excellence in the classroom make her a truly deserving honoree. She was recognized at the East Pennsboro School Board meeting on September 4 and will be formally celebrated at the Shippensburg University Award Luncheon later this fall.

We are Panther Proud to have Ms. Schaffer represent EPAHS with this outstanding achievement!

Senior year is no longer just the final chapter of high school—it’s the first chapter of what comes next. As Dr. Bianchi shared last month, our goal is to make senior year feel more like where students are going than where they’ve been. That means creating real-world opportunities: earning college credits, gaining industry-recognized credentials, and learning alongside professionals through internships.

One exciting example is the record-breaking enrollment in Applied Statistics 200, a College in the High School course taught by Mr. Morris. This year, 51 seniors are taking advantage of the opportunity to earn 4 college credits through the University of Pittsburgh, all while still in high school.

Opportunities like these are designed to give seniors a strong head start. As always, we count on our seniors to lead by example as they take on these expanded roles and responsibilities. The future starts now, and we're proud to help launch it.

The High School Library transformed into a lively debate hall as Mrs. Silva’s class explored one of the most pivotal moments in American history—the Civil War. Students, working in groups, engaged in structured debates centered around a compelling question: What was the true turning point that led to the start of the Civil War?

Each group was tasked with researching significant historical events and building strong arguments to defend their chosen turning point. The debates encouraged students to think critically, collaborate with peers, and practice persuasive speaking skills, all while deepening their understanding of this important period in U.S. history.

The energy in the library was electric as students presented evidence, challenged opposing viewpoints, and worked together to strengthen their cases. This activity not only brought history to life but also demonstrated the value of teamwork and thoughtful discussion.

The library is proud to support engaging, hands-on learning experiences like this and looks forward to hosting more academic collaborations throughout the school year!

Mrs. Murray’s Molecular Biology class spent September exploring synthetic polymers and their unique properties. As part of the unit, students conducted a “cross-linking” reaction to create an expanding polyethylene foam. Using this process, they shaped the foam into imaginative “creatures,” blending science with creativity while observing how chemical reactions produce new materials with practical applications.

This hands-on activity not only reinforced classroom learning but also gave students the opportunity to see chemistry come alive in a fun and memorable way.

Students in Mr. Durika’s Economics and Personal Finance class had the opportunity to hear from SSgt. Layton Hoffman of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. SSgt. Hoffman spoke about the wide range of career opportunities and benefits available to service members, offering students valuable insight into military service as a potential career path.

We are grateful to SSgt. Hoffman for sharing his time and experiences with our students and helping them connect classroom learning to real-world opportunities.

Each week, our talented student chefs in the 11th+ Life Skills Support Classroom take the lead in planning, preparing, and serving a special dish for their peers. From appetizers to entrées to desserts, students select a recipe, check pantry inventory, create a grocery list, shop for ingredients, and prepare the meal.

On Wednesdays, they proudly share their finished dish with classmates and a small group of invited adults.

This program provides meaningful, hands-on experience in real-world skills such as meal planning, budgeting, shopping, and cooking. Most importantly, it helps build independence and confidence as students prepare for life beyond high school.

In Mr. Morris' Algebra 2 class, students are getting on their feet and into the functions with a creative activity known as Algerobics. This interactive lesson brings math to life by combining movement and learning. Students use their bodies to model the nine parent functions, physically forming the shapes of graphs that are typically confined to paper.

Once the basic functions are mastered, the class explores transformations—shifting graphs up, down, left, and right; stretching or compressing them; and reflecting them across x- and y-axes. By embodying the math, students gain a deeper understanding of how functions behave and change.

Algerobics turns abstract concepts into memorable experiences, making math both active and engaging!

Students from Mrs. King’s and Ms. Stellfox’s classes set out on an exciting adventure in September to City Island, turning a beautiful day into a memorable learning experience. Throughout the trip, students put their classroom knowledge into action by practicing communication and map-reading skills during a fun and challenging scavenger hunt that took them all around the island.

This special day wasn’t just a reward—it was earned. Thanks to the students’ dedication and teamwork during the five Coffee Friday events held throughout the school year, the trip became a well-deserved celebration of their effort and commitment.

Way to go, students!

Four high school seniors – Ashley Miller, Natalie Pinti, Kylie Roland, and Riley Uhrich – are participating in the UPMC Health Care Career Explorations Program this semester. The program is an initiative designed to give students first-hand experience in the many career paths available in health care.

Through this program, Ashley, Natalie, Kylie and Riley gain:

· A deeper understanding of health care careers and related college pathways

· Exposure to real-world employment opportunities in their fields of interest

· Valuable work experience with UPMC

· Access to financial assistance resources

Participants have the chance to observe patient care from the moment of hospital admission through discharge, seeing how different departments manage patients with a wide range of needs—from urgent and emergency care to post-operative recovery, new mothers and babies, orthopaedics, and critical care. Along the way, they will witness collaboration among health care professionals and learn how UPMC staff respect the cultures, beliefs, and privacy of patients and families.

Students will also explore specialty areas such as laboratory services, imaging, acute care therapy, cardiopulmonary services, food and nutrition, and environmental services. From teaching a patient how to use a new inhaler to ensuring a safe hospital environment, they’ll see how every role—whether direct care or behind the scenes—contributes to quality outcomes and an exceptional patient experience.

This unique opportunity not only helps these seniors prepare for future careers but also allows them to see firsthand the many ways health care professionals make a difference in people’s lives every day.

As we move further into the school year, it’s important to revisit our district’s approach to cell phones, earbuds, headphones, and other electronic devices during the school day. After nearly a generation of widespread smart technology use, the verdict is clear: while these devices offer many benefits, their misuse has become a significant concern.

At best, electronic devices often serve as distractions and create management challenges in the classroom. At worst, they can be platforms where harmful messages are shared or recorded, disrupting the learning environment and impacting student well-being. The overall cost has increasingly outweighed the benefits.

You may have seen that more schools nationwide are taking steps to limit student access to cell phones during school hours. Here at EPAHS, we are continuing a multi-year plan aimed at reducing distractions by prohibiting the use of cell phones during class, eliminating earbuds and headphones, and strictly enforcing rules against recording images or videos without permission.

We are committed to working closely with students and families throughout this process. Safety and communication remain priorities, and we will ensure that all are prepared for emergencies without reliance on personal devices.

Thank you for your support as we strive to maintain a focused, respectful, and safe learning environment for all Panthers.

The East Pennsboro Area High School PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) team is proud to continue building on the success of last year’s launch by introducing new initiatives focused on creating a positive and supportive school climate. Now in its second year during the 2025–26 school year, the PBIS program is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating respectful, responsible, and safe behaviors throughout the high school community.

The goal is simple: to foster an environment where every student feels valued and supported, encouraging consistent model behavior and strengthening a culture of respect, collaboration, and achievement across campus. It’s exciting to see so many students embody these principles in their daily actions and interactions.

Central to these efforts is the ongoing use of the Panther POWER ticket system—developed and guided by the PBIS team and embraced by our staff. Panther POWER stands for Preparedness, Ownership, Welcoming, Excellence, and Reliability, core values that our school community aims to live by. Staff members recognize positive behaviors by awarding Panther POWER tickets, which students can collect individually or as part of group efforts. These tickets can be redeemed for chances to win individual rewards or to contribute toward school-wide incentives.

We look forward to sharing monthly updates on the exciting ways students are earning rewards and contributing to a respectful and engaging learning environment. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected Panther community!

Are you looking for adventure? Are you ready for the trip of a lifetime?

The Spanish & Environment Clubs invite you to join them exploring the breathtaking Galápagos Islands from June 10-20, 2026! This incredible opportunity is open to all EPHS students and staff.

The journey begins in Quito (June 10th & 11th), where you'll explore the city before heading to Tijeretas Bay (June 12th) to observe coastal wildlife. Enjoy snorkeling at La Loberia Beach (June 13th), followed by a guided hike on the Sierra Negra Volcano and a visit to a local ranch (June 14th & 15th). You'll also explore wetlands, the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, and the Darwin Research Station (June 16th & 17th). The adventure continues at Baltra Island via the Itabaca Canal, where you’ll witness the stunning Twin Craters (June 18th), before wrapping up the trip at La Mariscal artisan markets in Quito (June 19th and 20th).

This is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in another culture, practice Spanish, and learn about conservation efforts for some of the world’s most unique wildlife.

For more details and pricing, contact Señor Rice at mrice@epasd.org today!

Throughout the school week—and the year—our high school follows a variety of bell schedules to accommodate different events and needs. These include our Regular Bell Schedule, Friday Bell Schedule, Early Dismissal days, and, on occasion, 2-Hour Delay schedules (typically due to inclement weather).

Being familiar with each schedule helps students stay organized, on time, and ready for the day ahead. It’s also helpful for parents and guardians to keep these variations in mind when planning appointments, early dismissals, or other commitments.

Check out the graphic below to stay informed and plan ahead with confidence!

To help keep our morning drop-off process smooth and efficient, we kindly ask drivers to pull forward to the furthest point in the "drop off" lane when driving your students to school. This small step helps prevent traffic from backing up and keeps everyone moving safely and swiftly.

As a reminder, traffic tends to be lighter between 7:00 and 7:20 a.m. If you're able to arrive during that window, you may experience a quicker drop-off. Between 7:20 and 7:30 a.m., traffic increases significantly.

Please refer to the map below for the current drop-off route. We appreciate your cooperation and continued support in making mornings run safely and smoothly for all!

Beginning Monday, September 15, 2025, all student drivers must display a valid 2025–2026 EPAHS Parking Permit to park or drive on campus. Permits must be purchased before bringing a vehicle to school. Driving without a valid permit may result in your vehicle being ticketed.

Permit applications are available in the Athletic Office and can be picked up between classes or after school.

If you have any questions, please see Ms. Davis in the Main Office. Thank you for helping us keep our campus safe and organized!

At East Pennsboro Area School District, we believe strong communication between school and home is key to student success. That’s why we encourage all parents and guardians to create a Sapphire Parent Portal account.

Sapphire is the district’s online platform for keeping families informed about important aspects of their student’s school experience. With a Parent Portal account, you’ll have access to:

• Your child’s report cards when they are published

• Up-to-date attendance records

• Important notifications specific to your student

Creating an account is quick and easy—and it’s one of the best ways to stay engaged in your child’s academic progress and school life.

To create a parent portal account:

• Go to our website www.epasd.org
• Hover over the "Students" tab
• Click "Sapphire Community Web Portal"
• Click "Create a Web Portal Account"
• Follow the remaining on-screen instructions to enter your information.

If you have any questions or need assistance setting up your Parent Portal account, please contact Ms. Suzette Davis at sdavis@epasd.org She’ll be happy to help you get started.

As we settle into the school year, we want to thank the many Panther families who have already completed their yearly required forms in the Sapphire Parent Portal. These forms are essential for keeping student records up-to-date and ensuring a smooth, safe, and successful school year.

If you haven’t had a chance to complete them yet—it’s not too late!

The following forms must be submitted for each student:

• Code of Conduct & Handbook Sign-Off

• Required Information Update

• Annual Health Update

• Device Policies Acknowledgment

In addition, if your child’s transportation needs change throughout the school year, please be sure to submit the Transportation Change Request form in Sapphire as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing.

If you have any questions or need help accessing Sapphire, please reach out to Ms. Suzette Davis at sdavis@epasd.org

Thank you for partnering with us as we continue a great start to the 2025–2026 school year!

Student last names A-F (and CTC) -Mrs. Hillary Miller hmiller@epasd.org

Student last names G-O -Mrs. Christina Zeller czeller@epasd.org

Student last names P-Z (and Foreign Exchange Students) - Mr. Mark Bohlen mbohlen@epasd.org"

October 3rd: Ninth Grade Career & Technical Center (CTC) Presentation

• Ninth graders will receive an overview of CTC opportunities during WIN period in the auditorium.

November: Career Exploration Nights @ CTC

• Students and families are invited to visit different programs and tour the facility.

• Events run from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, featuring different program clusters each evening.

• Open to students in grades 7 through 11.

• November 5th: Arts & Technology, Health Sciences, Human Services, and Hospitality clusters featured.

• November 6th: Advanced Manufacturing, Construction & Maintenance, and Transportation & Logistics clusters featured.

December 5th: First-round application deadline for CTC programs.

April 24th: Performance NOCTI Exams

• Mandatory testing date for students scheduled to take the exam.

• No make-up exam date available—attendance at CTC on this date is required.

The CPACTC 2025-2026 School Calendar is pictured below. Please utilize the link for more information concerning CPACTC scheduling and events.

https://www.cpatech.org/

On Wednesday, September 24th, 2025, East Pennsboro sophomores participated in the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. This assessment is administered to all 10th graders; however, score results from the ASVAB exam cannot be used for military recruitment or enlistment purposes.

Beyond its connection to the military, the ASVAB is a valuable career exploration tool. It helps predict academic strengths and potential success in a variety of occupational fields, giving students insight into future career pathways.

Additionally, the ASVAB fulfills an alternative graduation requirement. Similar to the PSAT and SAT, the ASVAB scores can demonstrate post-secondary readiness to the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

If students or parents have questions about the ASVAB or want to learn more about career planning resources, please contact the Counseling Office.

Throughout September, October, and November, many colleges and universities will be visiting East Pennsboro Area High School to meet with interested students. These visits provide a fantastic opportunity for students to learn more about potential schools, ask questions, and gather information to help guide their post-secondary plans.

Parents are encouraged to talk with their students about these upcoming visits and the benefits of attending. To participate, students must sign up in advance through their Naviance account to secure a spot for each informational session.

Taking advantage of these college visits is a great way for students to explore their options and prepare for the next steps after high school. If you have any questions about the visits or the sign-up process, please contact the Counseling Office.

The Counseling Office will host a representative from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) to speak to parents and students about Financial Aid information. This event will take place on October 8, 2025 at 6 PM in the high school auditorium. Join us to learn about FAFSA, scholarships, and other ways to help finance your student's college journey. We hope to see you there!

This year, our school will recognize Children’s Grief Awareness Day on November 20. To show our support, all staff members are invited to participate in a casual day by wearing blue. This simple act helps raise awareness about the challenges grieving children face and underscores our commitment to providing a caring and understanding community for all students. We encourage families and community members to join us in honoring this important day.

High school students, please be sure to join your grade-level Google Classroom for more detailed announcements and opportunities shared by the Counseling Office:

• Class of 2026 (Seniors) – School Counseling Announcements
  Class code: ckcks7o

• Class of 2027 (Juniors) – School Counseling Announcements
  Class code: m6h62mn

• Class of 2028 (Sophomores) – School Counseling Announcements
  Class code: 7jk33oi

• Class of 2029 (Freshmen) – School Counseling Announcements
  Class code: jb6xq2oj

Parents, please ensure your student has joined the appropriate counseling Google Classroom to stay informed about important updates and opportunities.

Attention 11th Graders: Just a reminder that you are required to return Physical Exams for 11th grade to the Nurse when they are completed. A Meningitis vaccine is required for entry into 12th grade and this is usually given at your 11th grade physical. If you have questions, please contact the nurse at 717-287-8764 or bhawk@epasd.org.

Illnesses: If you are sick, stay home. You may be sent home if you show signs of a sore throat, headache, stomachache, or cough.

Medication Policy: If you need medications during the day, you will need to provide a doctor’s note stating that you need the medication during school hours. The medications should be brought In by an adult/guardian in the pharmacy-labeled container. Empty containers may be sent home with the students, but the refills will need to be brought in by the parent/guardian.

Parents/Guardians - Please remember you have the option to submit absence notes, doctor, tardy, early dismissal, and educational trip forms to our high school attendance mailbox at ephsattendance@epasd.org

EPAHS accepts attendance notifications (excuse cards, absence notes, etc.) via email. Parents can email ephsattendance@epasd.org as a means of reporting your child’s absence. Paper notes will still be accepted as well. A reminder that all excuse notifications are required to be submitted within three school days of your child’s absences.

Excused Absences:

When a child is enrolled in the district’s educational program, the student is subject to the

Pennsylvania State Attendance Laws. The Board considers the following conditions to constitute an excused absence from school:

1. Illness

2. Quarantine

3. Student required court attendance

4. Prearranged doctor and dentist appointment for the time of appointment and appropriate travel time only

5. Authorized school activities

6. Pre-approved educational tours and trips, not school-sponsored

7. Other urgent reasons, including funerals, that apply to the child and approved by the building administrator

Parents/guardians are expected to telephone the school when students are absent for any reason. In addition, a written excuse from a parent/guardian is required for each absence.

Unexcused Absences:

An unexcused absence shall be defined as:

• Absence from school with parent/guardian consent for reasons other than those considered

excusable.

• Leaving school during school hours without permission from the administrator.

• Absence from school without knowledge/permission of parent/guardian (truancy).

• Absence from school without knowledge/permission of school authorities.

• Absences from school without written parental excuse submitted within 3 school days of the absence.

Please refer to the Student Handbook to review more specific information about our attendance policies. Contact our school office if you have any questions about our attendance policies or procedures.

Automated Absence Alert:

The Automated Absence Alert system was implemented to inform parents when their students are absent from school. If/when your student is absent or does not report to their classroom they are recorded as absent. When the daily attendance is submitted electronically, an automated message will be sent to a phone identified by the parent/guardian. This call will normally occur by approximately 10:00 am. Should you have questions or concerns you may contact the attendance secretary by calling: East Pennsboro Area High School (EPAHS), at (717) 732-0723.

September has been an exciting month for our student-athletes and activity programs! Here are some of the highlights from across the High School:

• The football team is off to an impressive start, securing victories against Trinity, Milton Hershey Greencastle-Antrim and Boiling Springs. They will face Susquehanna Township on October 3rd, with their next home game scheduled for October 10th against Middletown.
• Boys Soccer is also off to a strong season with a current record of 9-3 with key early-season wins over Camp Hill and Middletown.
• Girls Soccer holds a 12-1 record so far this season, with their only loss coming against defending District Champions, Lower Dauphin.
• Field Hockey has been competing hard, picking up big wins over Waynesboro and Conrad Weiser.
• Golf has been preparing for Mid Penns scheduled for the end of September, held at Range End Golf Club. The team is looking to defend their division championship from last year.
• Girls Tennis is 10-2 and is scheduled to compete in the Mid Penns on October 2nd and 3rd on our home courts. The team is currently in a good position for the District 3 playoffs.
• Boys & Girls Cross Country have had a strong season, competing in four invitationals and multiple dual meets during the month of September. The team has their next Invitational on October 4th at Gettysburg, followed by focused preparation for the upcoming Mid-Penn Championships.

It’s been a fantastic start to the school year, and we look forward to seeing all of our teams and groups continue their success this fall!

Our East Pennsboro Area High School Marching Band has been hard at work all summer, and their dedication is clearly paying off! The band has already performed at two competitions during the month of September, showcasing their talent, precision, and Panther pride.

The band secured 1st place finishes at both the Halifax Competiton and he West Shore competition. At Halifax, competing against five other schools, the Marching Band impressively earned a clean sweep from every judge, taking home top honors in:

• Overall Music

• Overall Effect

• Overall Visual

The band’s outstanding performances are a testament to the countless hours of practice and commitment from both students and staff.

The band also plays at every varsity football game, adding energy and spirit to our stands and boosting Panther pride in every performance.

Looking ahead, the band will be competing at the following events:

• 10/11/25 – East Pennsboro HOME SHOW

• 10/18/25 – Central Dauphin HS

• 10/25/25 – Mid-Atlantic Regionals (Cedar Cliff HS)

• 11/1/25 – PA State Championships (Upper Moreland HS)

• 11/8/25 – NATIONAL Championships (J. Birney Crum Stadium, Allentown, PA)

We encourage the community to come out and support our talented marching band as they continue their pursuit of excellence and Panther pride this season!

On Thursday, September 18th, student leaders from our fall athletics and activities programs proudly represented our high school at the district school board meeting. These student-athletes and activity leaders spoke about their roles, shared their experiences, and highlighted what leadership means to them—both on and off the field.

We are incredibly proud of the way our students continue to lead by example and represent Panther values throughout our school and community. Their dedication and leadership are a true reflection of what it means to be Panther Proud!

Open 24 hours for all of your EP Spirit needs!

There are two lunch sessions at EPAHS. Students can deposit lunch money into their accounts by putting it in an envelope in the main office or online with School Bucks. Our district partners with Chartwell’s K-12. Please visit our district’s food service page for more information, including information on free and reduced price meals.

We would like to remind our families that the National School Lunch program requires annual renewal for participation in the program. Every year, a new Free/Reduced Meal Application or renewal in COMPASS must be completed for every student. The program allows for a 30-school day carryover period for approved students from the previous school year. The rollover period for the 2025 – 2026 school year ends on October 2, 2025. Any student not on the approved list for the current school year will switch to a full pay student beginning on October 3, 2025. There are no exceptions to this date.

If you have already received an approval letter for the 2025 - 2026 school year, no further action is needed.

A renewal on the COMPASS website or an application must be completed for your student to participate in the Free/Reduced Meal program. A link and applications can be found on the school website: EPASD.org→ Parents & Guardians→ Free & Reduced Meals. Click the website link to fill out an application online (COMPASS) or fill out an application. Please contact the business office at amcbride@epasd.org, if you have any questions.

Click the link for a parent-friendly guide to navigating your student's Google Classroom.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1GSel8xwNYfbQhodBdogt9RC_TZpolTXb2TlZLQKwb_0/edit?usp=sharing

Did you know that in addition to accessing your student’s lunch account, you can also pay fees through MySchoolBucks?

If you have a newly enrolled student in grades 6-12, an invoice will be created for the initial device insurance fee. Please check your student’s account on MySchoolBucks.com. Please select School Store, then School Invoices to view all device invoices.

If your student has needed their device repaired, the insurance fee will cover the cost to repair the device. A new insurance fee will be applied to cover the cost of future incidents. Full details and payment information are available in our District’s 1:1 Device Guide. (epasd.org - parents & guardians - EPASD 1:1 Device Information - EPASD 1:1 Device Guide) To check your student’s account, please go to MySchoolBucks.com, select School Store, and then School Invoices to view all device invoices.

Payments can be mailed to the Administration Center: EPASD — Business Office, 890 Panther Parkway, Enola PA 17025. Please include the student number on the check.

The Cumberland County Library System is offering virtual tutoring sessions. Click the link for more information.

www.cumberlandcountylibraries.org/tutor

Email: tbianchi@epasd.org
Website: https://www.epasd.org/east-pennsboro-area-high-school/
Location: 425 West Shady Lane, Enola, PA, USA
Phone: 717-732-0723
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EastPennsboroAreaHigh/