East Pennsboro Area High School

Greetings,

We hope you and your family have had a great start to the 2026–27 school year. The year has gotten off to a positive start at EPAHS, and while there are many ways to measure a successful beginning, we believe the stories, accomplishments, and activities highlighted in this newsletter provide a glimpse into the energy of our school.

On the last Friday of each month, we will continue to publish our school newsletter as a window into EPAHS. We will highlight upcoming events, celebrate the happenings and accomplishments of the past month, and share the experiences that make our school a great place.

Thank you for your continued support of our students, staff, and school. We have created momentum for the year ahead.

Sincerely,
Dr. Bianchi

October

October 1 – Susquehanna University visit (Counseling Office)

October 2 – HS Interims Grades Posted @ 3PM

October 2 – Homecoming Football Game

October 3 – Homecoming Dance

October 6 – York College of PA visit (Counseling Office)

October 7 – Shippensburg University visit (Counseling Office)

October 7 – School Picture Make-Up Day

October 9 – Coffee Friday

October 12 – In-service Day (Act 80) – No school for students

October 12 – CTC Closed

October 13 – Special Olympics

October 15 – Lebanon Valley College Visit (Counseling Office)

October 20 – Kutztown University Visit (Counseling Office)

October 21 – PSAT/NMSQT Exam Administration

October 21 & 22 – Virtual School Day for CPACTC Students

October 21 & 22 – CTC Tour Days

October 21 – Penn State University Park visit (Counseling Office)

October 22 – Millersville University visit (Counseling Office)

October 23 – CTC End of Marking Period 1

October 26 – University of Delaware visit (Counseling Office)

October 27 – 9th Grade CTC Meeting

October 28 – PennWest California visit (Counseling Office)

October 29 – Temple University visit (Counselling Office)

October 30 – End of 1st Marking Period

October 30 – Student Early Dismissal – HS has 12:00 Dismissal Time

Each month, we will spotlight a teacher in our monthly newsletter in an effort to recognize their service and allow them to tell their rich stories while at EPAHS.

In the first installment of Panther Perspectives, Dr. Bianchi sits down with Mr. Mark Morris, a former East Pennsboro student who has spent the past 35 years teaching mathematics in the District. With plans to retire at the end of the 2026–2027 school year, Mr. Morris reflects on his path to becoming a teacher, how EPAHS has evolved over the years, and the students he has taught throughout his career.

Take a few minutes to hear Mr. Morris share his East Pennsboro story and some of the perspectives he has gained throughout 35 years in the classroom.

▶ Watch the interview with Mr. Morris

EPAHS’s Link Crew program is off to another successful start, helping incoming ninth-grade students feel connected, supported, and confident as they begin their high school journey.

Link Crew is a high school transition program designed to ease the move to ninth grade—an important year of academic, social, and personal growth. Comprised of dedicated juniors and seniors, Link Crew Leaders complete an application process and extensive training before taking on their roles as peer mentors. Throughout the year, these student leaders provide guidance, encouragement, and regular check-ins to help freshmen navigate high school and build a strong sense of belonging within the EPAHS community.

The program also recently caught the attention of CBS 21, which visited East Pennsboro Area High School to spotlight the positive impact of Link Crew. Senior Aiden Hall, who has served as a Link Crew mentor for the past two years, was interviewed as part of the feature.

By fostering connections, developing student leadership, and promoting a welcoming school environment, Link Crew continues to make a meaningful difference for our newest Panthers. We are proud of our Link Crew Leaders for serving as role models and helping the Class of 2030 start the year with confidence!

Thank you to all of the parents and guardians who joined us for Back-to-School Night on Wednesday, September 2! We enjoyed welcoming our families into the high school and providing an opportunity to meet teachers, learn more about courses and classroom expectations, and better understand the learning experiences their students will have throughout the school year.

Strong communication and positive relationships between school and home play an important role in student success. Back-to-School Night is one of the many opportunities throughout the year for our teachers and families to connect and work together in support of our students.

We appreciate our families' involvement and partnership as we work together to create a positive, supportive, and successful school community. When families and schools work together, our students benefit—and our entire Panther community grows stronger!

This September, East Pennsboro Area High School had the distinct honor of welcoming Lieutenant Colonel Dave Kramer to speak with our students and staff in remembrance of September 11, 2001.

LTC Kramer, a retired Army veteran and Camp Hill graduate, was serving at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. His office was destroyed when American Airlines Flight 77 struck the building that morning. Since 2009, LTC Kramer has shared his personal experiences and the lessons of 9/11 with students at schools throughout the region.

While sharing his powerful story, LTC Kramer emphasized that the message is about much more than his own experience. He reminded students of the courage and selflessness demonstrated by so many brave men and women that day and the importance of remembering their actions and sacrifices.

"It's not about me—that's the most important thing," LTC Kramer shared. "It's about remembering the actions and reactions of those brave men and women on that day. We must always strive to stay true to the best in every one of us."

The presentation provided our students and staff with a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the events of 9/11, honor those who were lost, and consider the importance of unity, service, and strength in the face of adversity.

EPAHS is grateful to LTC Kramer for sharing his tremendous story and message with our school community and for providing our students with this memorable and meaningful opportunity.

On September 17, approximately 19 EPAHS students—primarily juniors, along with several seniors—gathered in the LMLC for an informational meeting about the Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Central PA program. Lindsey Baumer, a representative from Big Brothers Big Sisters, introduced students to an exciting opportunity to make a positive difference in the life of a younger student while developing their own leadership and service skills.

Through the program, interested EPAHS students will be matched with sixth-grade students at East Pennsboro Middle School. Once matched, the “Bigs” will meet with their “Littles” twice a month and participate in activities guided and supported by Big Brothers Big Sisters. The program provides an opportunity for high school students to serve as positive role models while building relationships with and encouraging younger students.

Lindsey also shared the many benefits for the high school volunteers, including opportunities to develop leadership skills, earn volunteer hours, and potentially qualify for scholarship opportunities.

Students interested in participating learned about the steps involved in becoming a Big. The process includes completing an online application, submitting two references (one from a parent/guardian and one from a teacher), and participating in an interview with Big Brothers Big Sisters representatives. The interview also provides students with valuable practice and experience for future interviews. Following the interviews, Big Brothers Big Sisters staff complete assessments to help ensure that students and their Littles are thoughtfully and appropriately matched.

Once matches are established, the first Big/Little meeting is scheduled for October 20, 2026. Students will also receive ongoing support from Big Brothers Big Sisters staff every other month to discuss how their match is progressing, celebrate achievements, and address any questions or concerns.

During the meeting, the Middle School principal also emphasized that becoming a Big is a meaningful commitment. The sixth-grade students participating in the program will be counting on their Bigs to be dependable and consistently show up for them.

We are excited to see our EPAHS students embrace this opportunity to lead, serve, mentor, and make a difference in the life of a younger member of our school community!

The Class of 2027 started their morning together on Friday September 18th at Senior Sunrise! Before the school day officially began, seniors gathered from 6:45–7:25 a.m. to enjoy coffee, donuts, and some time to simply relax and catch up with their classmates.

Senior year brings plenty of excitement, new experiences, and opportunities to make memories with friends. Events like Senior Sunrise give classmates a chance to step away from the busy school day and enjoy time together as they begin this special year.

Good food, good conversation, and plenty of classmate camaraderie provided a great way for the Class of 2027 to start the day—and celebrate the beginning of their senior year—together!

The cast of Clue: High School Edition is already hard at work preparing for their upcoming performances on November 12 and 14! Based on the classic board game and beloved comedy, this production promises plenty of mystery, mayhem, and fun.

Meet the Cast:

· Josh Davidheiser — Mr. Green

· Aubree Demmy — Mrs. Peacock

· Aurora Farley-Freeman — Unexpected Cop

· Evelyn Grimwood — Cook / Cop

· Braelyn Heck — Singing Telegram Girl / Cop

· Nick Johnson — Col. Mustard

· Mason Kasprzak — Professor Plum

· Ryleigh Koretzky — Miss Scarlet

· Evan Marshall — Mr. Boddy

· Callie Muthersbaugh — Chief of Police

· Marley Parthemore — Wadsworth

· Sage Ragin — The Motorist / Cop

· Hannah Rehm — Yvette

· Maddy Stone — Mrs. White

The production is directed by Joseph Durika, with Arya Patel serving as Stage Manager.

The cast and crew are putting in the work now to bring this mysterious and entertaining production to the stage. Mark your calendars for November 12 and 14 and come see whodunit!

There is more to high school than what happens during the regular school day—and the Activity Bus makes it easier for East Pennsboro students to take advantage of those opportunities!

The Activity Bus began running for the 2026–2027 school year on September 21 and will operate Monday through Thursday throughout the school year, departing East Pennsboro Area High School at approximately 3:15 p.m. The bus provides students with a convenient way to stay after school and participate in activities, meet with clubs, or spend extra time working with teachers for additional academic support.

September has been a busy month for student organizations, with many of our clubs holding their first meetings of the school year. From Leadership Club, Medical Club, Chess & Tabletop Games Club, Math Club, and Art Club to the many other opportunities available throughout the year, there are plenty of ways for students to discover new interests, develop skills, meet new people, and become more connected to the East Pennsboro High School community.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to talk with their students about the many opportunities available after school. Encourage your student to try something new, join a club, connect with other students who share their interests, or stay after school for some extra help from a teacher. Getting involved can be an important part of making the most of the high school experience.

And when it's time to head home, the Activity Bus can help make staying after school possible. Students must sign up for the Activity Bus through the District's new SmartPass system. They must sign up before 2:30PM each day they wish to use the Activity Bus. For additional information about using SmartPass to sign up for the Activity Bus, students can check with Mr. Locker.

Whether it's joining a club, getting extra academic support, or simply finding a place to pursue an interest, there are opportunities waiting after the final bell!

High School Picture Day was held on September 9, 2026, giving students—including our seniors—the opportunity to have their picture taken for inclusion in the 2026–2027 yearbook.

Families who ordered picture packages from the photography vendor should have received those packets at home delivered from their student.

Did your student miss Picture Day? Mark your calendar! A picture makeup day is scheduled for Wednesday, October 7, 2026. This is an opportunity for any student who did not have their picture taken in September to make sure they have a photo for the yearbook.

Wednesday, October 7 — Picture Makeup Day

The first early dismissal day of the 2026–2027 school year is scheduled for Friday, October 30, 2026.

Please note that the early dismissal schedule is different this school year. High school students will be dismissed at 12:00 p.m. on early dismissal days.

Families are encouraged to mark their calendars now and make any necessary arrangements for the earlier dismissal time.

Friday, October 30 — High School Dismissal: 12:00 p.m.

For the past 12 years, Panther Pack has been helping provide food assistance to families in the East Pennsboro Area School District, and the program is once again underway for the 2026–2027 school year.

The first Panther Pack distribution of the school year was held on August 27, with distributions continuing every other Thursday from 4:00–6:00 p.m. at the Panther Pack Dock, located at the back of the East Pennsboro Elementary School.

Upcoming distribution dates for the 2026–2027 school year include:

October 8 • October 22 • November 5 • November 19 (Turkey Distribution) • December 3 • December 17 (Holiday Ham Distribution) • January 14 • January 28 • February 11 • February 25 • March 11 • March 25 (Holiday Ham Distribution) • April 8 • April 22 • May 6 • May 20

Panther Pack welcomes donations throughout the school year. Items that are always needed include peanut butter and jelly, dinner side dishes, cereal, cereal bars, crackers, and other nonperishable food items.

Donations may be dropped off at any time in the storage containers located on the Panther Pack Dock at the back of East Pennsboro Elementary School.

East Pennsboro Area School District families who need assistance through Panther Pack are encouraged to contact Leanne Kalb at PantherPack@epasd.org. Families will need to provide their letter confirming their child's inclusion in the district's Free/Reduced Lunch Program.

Panther Pack will also host a Plant Bingo fundraiser on Sunday, November 8, at Enola Fire Company No. 3, 118 Chester Road, Enola, PA. The event will provide an opportunity for community members to have some fun while supporting Panther Pack and its mission of helping local families. Additional event details and Leanne Kalb's contact information can be found on the accompanying flyer.

Panther Pack is grateful for the continued generosity of the East Pennsboro community. Every donation helps support local families and contributes to a stronger, more caring school community.

Looking for something fun to do this fall? Be sure to check out the East Pennsboro Branch of the Cumberland County Library System! The library has a full calendar of activities and events for students, families, and community members of all ages.

There’s something for everyone—from Family Game Nights, Bingo for Books, and Read to Dogs to creative activities such as Paper Quilling Craft Night. Younger brothers and sisters can also enjoy a variety of programs designed just for them. And don’t miss the Big Book Sale at East Pennsboro Pumpkinfest on October 10 & 11—a great opportunity to find some new-to-you books while supporting your local library!

Whether you’re looking for a good book, a fun family activity, a creative outlet, or simply a quiet place to explore something new, your local library has plenty to offer.

Take a look at the flyer below for the complete schedule of upcoming programs and events, and consider stopping by the East Pennsboro Branch to participate!

And remember—there’s always time to read! Supporting your local library is a great way to discover your next favorite book, explore new interests, and keep reading a part of your everyday life.

Mrs. Nugent’s Biology students kicked off the school year with a little science, a lot of teamwork, and plenty of bubbles! During their Bubble Lab, students worked together to investigate the science behind bubbles while practicing observation, measurement, and data-collection skills.

It was a fun, hands-on way to begin the year—and a great reminder that learning science can be both engaging and, well…bubbly!

On September 2, Mrs. Clouser’s Creative Writing students visited the LMLC to begin the school year with a little reading—and a lot of creativity! Students selected books to enjoy while also exploring the many titles lining the LMLC shelves.

Their challenge? Create “Book Title Poetry” by combining book titles into unique poems. With a little imagination, the books on the shelves became more than something to read—they became the building blocks for original poetry!

It was a creative way to explore the LMLC, discover new books, and see familiar titles in an entirely new way.

What comes to mind when you hear the words Career Exploration?

At the beginning of the semester, students in Mr. Yeager’s Career Exploration classes—made up primarily of sophomores—were given the opportunity to think creatively about that question. As part of their introduction to the course, students spent time creating their own visual representations of what they believe career exploration means.

Rather than being given a definition, students were encouraged to use their own ideas and creativity to show what they think about when they hear the words career exploration. Their responses offered a variety of perspectives and demonstrated that exploring careers can mean different things to different people.

These first-day creations are just the beginning! Throughout the course, students will have opportunities to learn more about themselves, explore different career possibilities, and begin thinking about how their interests, skills, and goals may connect to their futures.

Take a look at a few of the students’ creative interpretations of Career Exploration!

The Library & Media Learning Commons once again became a hub of discussion and debate as Mrs. Silva’s students brought their Civil War studies into the LMLC this September.

Working in groups, students researched historical events and developed arguments surrounding the question: What was the true turning point that led to the start of the Civil War? Each group was challenged to use historical evidence to support their position and prepare to respond to opposing viewpoints.

The debate format gave students an opportunity to put their classroom learning into action while developing important skills in research, critical thinking, collaboration, persuasive speaking, and active listening. Students not only had to understand their chosen historical event, but also consider how effectively they could explain and defend their position.

Hosting activities like this in the LMLC provides students with an opportunity to learn in a different environment while using the space for meaningful collaboration and academic discussion.

We are excited to continue partnering with teachers throughout the school year to provide students with engaging opportunities to learn, collaborate, communicate, and put their knowledge into action!

Learning in NJROTC extends well beyond the classroom! Recently, students in NJROTC 3 had the opportunity to work with experienced professionals who led them through Naval Drill and Physical Training (PT) activities.

Led by Petty Officer Rau, the PT session focused on proper exercise techniques and preparing students for the Cadet Challenge at the end of the semester. Cadets learned about the importance of properly warming up and cooling down, counting during exercises, and building the physical skills they will need for the challenge. The Cadet Challenge includes sit-ups, a plank, and a one-mile run.

During the Naval Drill portion of the lesson, cadets worked on precision, teamwork, and attention to detail. They received guidance on proper hand placement and angle when rendering a salute, maintaining proper spacing and alignment while marching, staying in step, and delivering drill commands with a stronger voice and slower, more deliberate tempo.

These hands-on experiences give NJROTC students the opportunity to put skills into practice while developing discipline, teamwork, physical fitness, confidence, and leadership.

NJROTC 3 extends a special thank-you to Petty Officers Ray, Ayala, Fann, and Delgado for taking the time to visit East Pennsboro Area High School and work with our cadets!

On Friday, September 11, members of the East Pennsboro NJROTC and high school student Delaney Horvath represented East Pennsboro at the United Way Day of Caring Kickoff event. NJROTC cadets proudly presented the colors while Delaney beautifully performed the National Anthem.

The event brought community members together for “Stuff the Bus,” a school-supply collection initiative supporting local school districts and students throughout our community. This effort helps ensure that local students have the supplies they need to begin the school year ready to learn and succeed.

A special thank-you goes to the East Pennsboro Fire Department, whose ladder truck helped hoist a giant American flag over the event, adding a memorable and patriotic touch to the celebration.

We are proud of our students for representing East Pennsboro Area School District and contributing to an event that brings our school and community together in support of local students.

A familiar student organization is making a comeback at East Pennsboro Area High School! Thanks to the initiative of junior Khushi Patel, senior Palveer Singh, and several other interested students, a Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter is being reestablished at East Pennsboro.

Although FBLA previously had a presence at the high school, the chapter had become inactive in recent years. This fall, a new group of students is working to bring the organization back and create new opportunities for their classmates.

FBLA is a Career and Technical Student Organization that helps students develop skills and experiences related to business, leadership, communication, and career readiness. While business-related careers are a natural fit for the organization, the skills developed through FBLA can benefit students pursuing a wide variety of future careers.

The return of FBLA is another great opportunity for East Pennsboro students to get involved, explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and connect what they are learning in school to opportunities beyond the classroom.

We look forward to seeing what Khushi, Palveer, and their fellow students accomplish as they rebuild the East Pennsboro FBLA chapter!

What happens when learning takes students thousands of miles beyond the classroom? For eight East Pennsboro Area High School students, it meant an unforgettable journey to Quito, Ecuador, and the Galápagos Islands this summer.

From June 21 through July 2, students from the EPAHS Spanish and Environment Clubs, along with three parents, chaperone Mrs. Waldman, and Señor Mark Rice, spent 11 days exploring the culture, geography, science, and natural wonders of Ecuador and the Galápagos.

One of the most memorable parts of the trip was experiencing the unique wildlife of the Galápagos Islands—an area famously connected to Charles Darwin, who spent five weeks studying the islands in 1835. Darwin's observations of the animals and their adaptations later contributed to the development of his theory of evolution by natural selection.

More than a century later, our students had the opportunity to experience some of these remarkable animals firsthand. During seven days on the islands of San Cristóbal, Isabela, and Santa Cruz, students observed colorful flamingos and blue-footed boobies, watched playful sea lions up close, and even swam alongside sea turtles. They also encountered the iconic Galápagos giant tortoise, which can weigh more than 500 pounds and live for more than 100 years.

The experience went far beyond sightseeing. Students hiked volcanic landscapes, snorkeled in crystal-clear waters, explored the islands' unique ecosystems, and connected what they have learned in Spanish, environmental studies, science, and geography to the world around them. Perhaps most remarkable was seeing wildlife that has evolved in an environment where many species have historically had little fear of humans.

The journey provided students with opportunities to learn, explore, and experience concepts from the classroom in an entirely new way—while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

A special thank-you to Señor Mark Rice for coordinating this incredible educational experience, as well as to Mrs. Waldman, the parents, and everyone who helped make this adventure possible!

The September 3 School Board meeting provided an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the leadership and accomplishments of several East Pennsboro Area High School students.

High school student representative Palveer Singh addressed the School Board and provided a report on the start of the 2026–2027 school year, sharing highlights and perspectives from the beginning of the new school year.

The Board also recognized EPAHS fall athletics and marching band student leaders for their outstanding leadership and contributions to their teams and organizations. These students represent the dedication, teamwork, and Panther pride that make our school community special.

Congratulations to all of our student leaders for representing EPAHS with pride!

As we settle into the 2026–2027 school year, East Pennsboro Area High School would like to remind students and families of the District's expectations regarding cell phones, earbuds, headphones, and other personal electronic devices during the school day.

EPAHS is continuing its multi-year effort to create focused, distraction-free learning environments. Students are expected to follow the established guidelines regarding when and where personal electronic devices may be used. In particular, students should remember:

• Cell phones and personal electronic devices should not be used during class or instructional time.
• Earbuds and headphones are not permitted during the school day as outlined in the current expectations.
• Recording or photographing others without permission is not permitted.
• Students should follow any additional directions provided by teachers or staff regarding electronic devices in specific settings or activities.

These expectations are intended to help students remain focused on instruction, participate fully in the school environment, and protect the privacy and well-being of others. While personal technology can be useful, the school day also provides an important opportunity for students to learn, communicate, collaborate, and engage without the constant distraction of personal devices.

Families can help by reviewing these expectations with their students and encouraging responsible technology habits at school. In the event of an emergency, student safety and communication remain priorities, and the school has established procedures for communicating with students and families without relying on personal cell phones.

Thank you for partnering with us to maintain a focused, respectful, and safe learning environment for all Panthers.

As we begin a new school year, East Pennsboro Area High School is continuing its commitment to building a positive, respectful, and supportive school community through PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports).

At the heart of our PBIS program is Panther POWER—Preparedness, Ownership, Welcoming, Excellence, and Reliability. These five characteristics help guide students in making positive choices, taking responsibility, supporting others, and contributing to a school environment where everyone can learn and succeed.

Throughout the school year, students will have opportunities to demonstrate Panther POWER in classrooms, hallways, activities, athletic events, and throughout the school community. When staff members see students putting these values into action, they can recognize those positive choices by awarding Panther POWER tickets.

This year, students have a new way to put their POWER tickets to use! Beginning Tuesday, October 6, the East Pennsboro School Store will open for students to visit before school and during selected lunch periods.

Students can use their Panther POWER tickets as currency to shop for EP swag and show their Panther Pride. Keep demonstrating your Panther POWER—and remember to save those tickets! Students are encouraged to save their POWER tickets to use as currency at the School Store and choose some EP swag to show their Panther Pride.

East Pennsboro Area High School has a new procedure for submitting student absence excuse documentation. Beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, parents and legal guardians should submit attendance excuse information directly through the student's Sapphire Parent Portal rather than sending a traditional written excuse to school.

The Sapphire portal allows parents/guardians to view their student's attendance information and conveniently submit an attendance excuse from home.

Parents/guardians should:

1. Log in to the student's Sapphire Parent Portal.

2. Select My Backpack → Student Data Forms → On Demand Forms → Student Absence Excuse Forms → Student Absence Excuse Form.

3. Complete and submit the form.

4. If applicable, attach documentation from a medical provider, such as a doctor's or dentist's note.

The Student Absence Excuse Form may only be submitted by a parent or legal guardian and must be completed within three school days of the student's absence. If a student is absent for multiple consecutive days, those dates may be included on the same form as long as the form is submitted within three school days of the absence.

The form will ask for the date(s) of the absence, reason for the absence, and any applicable documentation. A parent/guardian must also type their name in the confirmation section to verify that the information submitted is accurate.

Submitting the attendance excuse through Sapphire replaces the traditional method of bringing a written excuse to school. Timely submission is important, as absences without the required documentation submitted within three school days may be considered unexcused.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to review their student's attendance regularly through Sapphire and use the online attendance excuse form whenever documentation is needed.

For additional information about District attendance procedures, please refer to the Student Handbook, Code of Student Conduct, and District Board Policy.

The regular school-day and early-dismissal bell schedules are provided below for families to review. Knowing the daily schedule can be especially helpful when planning doctor's appointments, dental appointments, and other activities for students. Whenever possible, please keep the academic schedule in mind when scheduling appointments so students can maximize their time in class.

The District Calendar is always available for families to review on the East Pennsboro Area School District website. Checking the online calendar regularly is a great way to stay up to date on early dismissals, holidays, school events, and other important dates throughout the school year.

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!

Licensed drivers who wish to drive to and from school and park on campus must have a school-issued parking permit. Permits are available for $30.

• Applications will be available in the Athletic Office starting Wednesday, September 30th.
• Mrs. Wadlinger will start processing applications on Monday, October 5th
• Students must have a valid permit displayed on their vehicle upon arriving to campus the morning of Tuesday October 13th to avoid fines.

For questions about parking permits, students should see Ms. Davis in the Main Office.

Do you have a Sapphire Parent Portal account? If not, now is a great time to create one!

East Pennsboro Area School District believes strong communication between school and home is the key to student success. That is 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, parents and guardians can accomplish the following:

· Access their child’s report cards when they are published

· Monitor their child’s attendance

· Receive important notifications regarding their child

· Complete and submit required school forms

To create a Sapphire Parent Portal account:

1. Visit www.epasd.org.

2. Hover over the Students tab.

3. Select Sapphire Community Web Portal.

4. Click Apply for a Sapphire Community Portal account.

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the registration process.

If you have questions or need assistance creating your account, please contact Ms. Suzette Davis at sdavis@epasd.org. She will be happy to help!

Don’t have an account yet? Create yours today and stay connected to your student’s school information!

A reminder to Panther families: Our annual required forms for the 2026–2027 school year are available in the Sapphire Parent Portal. If you have not yet completed all the required forms, please take a few minutes to log in and check your student’s account.

The required forms include:

· Code of Conduct & Handbook Sign-Off

· Required Information Update

· Annual Health Update

· Device Policies Acknowledgment

· District Photo Use Permission Form

Families should also review their student’s transportation information in Sapphire. If a student transportation change is needed, please complete the Transportation Change Request form through the Sapphire portal.

Thank you to our Panther families for taking care of these important forms and helping us keep student information current and up to date!

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"

One month into the school year, our CTC students have been settling into a new daily routine as they attend their Career and Technical Education programs at CPACTC during the morning session.

Each school day, CTC students arrive at East Pennsboro Area High School between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m. and report to the main lobby by 7:30. After signing in for attendance, students board the CTC bus at approximately 7:35 a.m. and head to CPACTC for their morning programs.

Students return to EPAHS shortly after 11:00 a.m. and report to their WIN period before continuing with the remainder of their high school schedule. Students eat lunch during their regularly scheduled lunch periods, rather than having a separate CTC lunch.

This new schedule has given our CTC students the opportunity to begin their school day with hands-on learning and career-focused experiences at CPACTC before returning to EPAHS for their afternoon classes.

As students have become familiar with the new routine, we appreciate their flexibility and willingness to adapt to this change. We look forward to seeing our CTC students continue to make the most of these valuable career and technical education opportunities throughout the school year!

• October 21 & 22 - Virtual Class Day for CPACTC Students
• October 21 & 22 - CPACTC Tour Days
• October 23 - End of Marking Period 1
• November 4 & 5 - Career Exploration Nights
• November 25 through November 30 - CPACTC Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday

The CPACTC 2026-2027 School Calendar is pictured below. Please utilize the link for more information concerning CPACTC scheduling and events.

https://www.cpatech.org/

East Pennsboro Area High School will host the Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) Counselor Forum on Friday, November 6.

TFEC will bring together select school counselors from surrounding schools for an opportunity to share feedback and ideas about how the organization can best support counselors and their students. The forum will focus on TFEC resources such as scholarship bootcamps and App Assists, while also providing counselors with an opportunity to suggest additional programs, resources, or improvements that could better serve students and families.

We are pleased to welcome TFEC and area school counselors to EPAHS for this collaborative event focused on expanding resources and opportunities to help students pursue their educational goals.

The college search is getting underway at East Pennsboro Area High School! Throughout September, October, November and December, representatives from colleges and universities will visit EPAHS to meet with interested students and share information about their schools and programs.

College visit sessions are open to juniors and seniors only. Eligible students can take advantage of these on-campus visits to learn about different colleges, ask questions directly to admission representatives, and discover opportunities they may not have considered.

For students beginning to explore their post-secondary options, these sessions can be a helpful first step in learning what different schools have to offer. Students who already have a few schools in mind may also find these visits helpful for getting answers to specific questions.

Students interested in attending a college visit should check the available sessions and sign up in advance through their Naviance account. Space may be limited, so students are encouraged to register early.

Parents and guardians can help by talking with their students about their interests, possible career paths, and the types of colleges or programs they may want to explore.

Whether a student already has a few schools in mind or is just beginning to think about life after high school, college visits provide a chance to ask questions, gather information, and explore what might be next.

For questions about upcoming college visits or the registration process, please contact the Counseling Office.

Juniors, mark your calendars! The PSAT/NMSQT will be administered to the junior class at East Pennsboro Area High School on Wednesday, October 21, from 7:30–11:30 a.m.

The PSAT/NMSQT is a valuable opportunity for students to experience a standardized test similar to the SAT and gain insight into their current level of preparation. It can also help students become more familiar with the testing format and identify areas where they may want to focus as they continue preparing for college.

There is no cost to our students to take the PSAT/NMSQT. In addition, the test can provide an opportunity for high-performing students to be considered for national scholarship recognition and opportunities, including the National Merit Scholarship Program.

More information about the PSAT/NMSQT and testing-day details will be shared with students and families by the Counseling Office as the test date approaches.

Wednesday, October 21 | 7:30–11:30 a.m. | Junior Class

On Wednesday, September 23, 2026, East Pennsboro Area High School sophomores participated in the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) assessment.

While the ASVAB is associated with the military, the assessment serves an important career exploration purpose for our students. It provides insight into students’ academic strengths, aptitudes, and potential areas of career interest, helping them begin to consider how their skills and interests may connect to future career pathways.

The ASVAB also fulfills an alternative graduation requirement in Pennsylvania. Similar to the PSAT and SAT, ASVAB results can be used to demonstrate post-secondary readiness to the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

Students and families who have questions about the ASVAB, understanding assessment results, or exploring career and post-secondary options are encouraged to contact the Counseling Office for additional information and resources.

Did you know the EPAHS Counseling Office is offering virtual Lunch & Learn sessions to help students and families navigate important topics throughout the school year?

The first session, held in September, focused on post-secondary planning and provided helpful information for families as they begin thinking about options and opportunities after high school. The virtual format makes it possible to access this information without having to add another evening meeting to an already busy family schedule.

Missed the September session? No problem! A recording of the Post-Secondary Planning Lunch & Learn is available on the Counseling Office page of the East Pennsboro Area High School website, allowing families to watch the presentation when it is convenient for them.

Be sure to watch for announcements from the Counseling Office about future virtual Lunch & Learn sessions. These sessions are a convenient way to stay informed and learn more about resources and opportunities available to EPAHS students and families—all from the comfort of home!

Visit the Counseling Office page on the EPAHS website to access the recording and stay tuned for information about upcoming sessions.

Looking for information to help your student plan for courses, explore career options, or prepare for life after high school? The EPAHS website is a great place to start!

From the East Pennsboro Area High School website, select Our Schools → East Pennsboro Area High School. Under the Academic Program heading, you’ll find resources to help students and families plan for the years ahead, including:

· Program of Studies – Explore course descriptions, pathway planning resources, and information to help students make informed course selections.

· Course Selection Information – Find resources to help students plan their schedules and select courses that support their academic and future goals.

· Post-Secondary Planning – Access information and resources to help students prepare for college, career, and other opportunities after high school.

· Career & Technical Center Resources – Learn more about career and technical education opportunities available to our students.

· NCAA Information – Student-athletes can find resources related to NCAA requirements and planning for college athletics.

The website also provides helpful information under Student Services, including Meet the Counselors information and resources from the Counseling Office. EPAHS counselors support students and families in three important areas: academic development, personal/social development, and college and career development.

Take a few minutes to explore these resources and bookmark the pages you find helpful! The Counseling section of the website is a resource students and families can return to throughout the school year as questions and planning needs arise.

Visit: East Pennsboro Area High School Website

Students and parents/guardians are encouraged to join their designated class cohort Google Classroom to stay up to date with important information and opportunities from the Counseling Office.

Throughout the school year, the Counseling Office shares information about college applications, scholarships, PHEAA webinars, internships, career exploration opportunities, and other resources to help students plan for life beyond high school.

Join your graduating class Google Classroom today!

• Class of 2027 - Seniors - Class code: m6h62mn Google Classroom for Seniors
• Class of 2028 - Juniors - Class code: 7jk33oi Google Classroom for Juniors:
• Class of 2029 - Sophomores - Class Code: jb6xq2oj Google Classroom for Sophomores:
• Class of 2030 - Freshmen - Class Code: 5qptmdcw Google Classroom for Freshmen:

Parents/Guardians: Be sure to join your student's class Google Classroom as well so you can stay informed about important deadlines, opportunities, and resources throughout the school year.

If you are sick, stay home. You may be sent home if you show signs of a sore throat, headache, stomachache, or cough. Students must be fever-free for 24 hours without medication before returning to school. A fever is considered to be a temperature of 100.5 F or higher.

If your child woke up feeling fine and now has a 102-degree fever and body aches, that is more consistent with flu. Keep them home and call your doctor. The CDC recommends a seasonal flu shot for everyone 6 months and older in the United States.

Hand sanitizer helps but does not replace soap and water after using the bathroom. Twenty seconds is the minimum, which is roughly the time it takes to hum 'Happy Birthday' twice.

• Fever – >100.4°F: stay home until fever‑free for 24 hours without medication.
• Vomiting/Diarrhea – If present the night before or morning of school, do not send to school; return when resolved.
• Coughs/Colds – Simple cases without fever may be allowed; persistent symptoms warrant staying home.
• COVID/Flu/Strep – Stay out until cleared by a doctor (usually fever‑free 24h + symptom resolution).
• Skin rashes – With drainage or new spots, stay home until treated and cleared.
• Red eyes – With drainage/crusting, stay out until doctor treats.

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.

The start of a new school year means the return of a favorite East Pennsboro tradition—the Fall Sports Kick-Off Parade & Bonfire!

On Thursday, August 28, just a few days after the start of the 2026–2027 school year, student-athletes, coaches, families, and community members gathered to celebrate the beginning of another fall sports season. Even stormy skies couldn't dampen the Panther spirit!

The evening began with high school and middle school athletic teams, along with several community recreational teams, gathering at the middle school before making their way along North Enola Drive toward the high school. As the teams entered the stadium through the North Enola Road gate, they paraded around the track before crossing the field as each team was introduced and recognized.

Following the parade, the celebration continued with the annual bonfire, with the East Pennsboro High School Band providing music and adding to the excitement of the evening.

The Fall Sports Kick-Off Parade and Bonfire has become a special part of the start of the school year at East Pennsboro. It provides an opportunity for our schools and community to come together, celebrate our student-athletes, and show what it means to have Panther Pride!

A special thank-you goes to the students, families, coaches, staff, and community members who helped make this year's celebration possible and came out to support our athletes. We are excited to cheer on all our fall teams throughout the season!

Go Panthers!

September has been a busy and exciting month for East Pennsboro athletics, with our fall teams competing, improving, and representing our school with Panther Pride. As the fall season continues, we encourage families, friends, and community members to come out and support our student-athletes. Your cheers from the stands, sidelines, and fields make a difference and help create the sense of community that makes high school athletics so special.

Want to catch a game, match, or meet? Team schedules are available on the East Pennsboro Area School District website, making it easy to find upcoming events and plan to come out and cheer on the Panthers. We hope to see you there!

The East Pennsboro Cross Country teams have been putting in the miles this September, with runners working hard at practices and meets to improve their times and set new personal records. With championship events coming up in mid-October, the Panthers are continuing to train, compete, and push themselves with hopes of qualifying for postseason competition. Every meet provides another opportunity for our runners to challenge themselves and see their hard work pay off!

The East Pennsboro Boys Soccer team has faced a new level of competition this season after moving up a conference for the 2026–2027 school year. The Panthers have embraced the challenge and continue to compete hard against their tougher opponents. September highlights include wins over Cedar Cliff and Palmyra, along with several ties. The team continues to work together and build momentum as the season progresses.

The East Pennsboro Girls Soccer team has welcomed the challenge of moving up a conference this season and has continued to battle against some tough competition. The Panthers have been especially strong defensively, holding opponents to a limited number of goals throughout September. The team also battled to a tie against West Perry and Red Land, demonstrating the determination and teamwork that have been hallmarks of their season so far.

September brought a milestone moment for East Pennsboro Football! On Friday, September 4, the Panthers defeated Eastern York to earn the 500th win in program history. Reaching 500 program victories is a significant achievement and a moment worth celebrating for the players, coaches, alumni, and community members who have been part of East Pennsboro Football throughout the years.

The Panthers will be hosting the Homecoming game on Friday October 2, when they take on Middletown. We hope families, friends, alumni, and community members will come out to the stadium, celebrate Homecoming, and cheer on the Panthers!

The Girls Tennis team has enjoyed a strong September, earning several decisive 5–0 victories and establishing a winning record as the regular season continues.

With only a few matches remaining, the team is looking to finish the regular season strong and carry that momentum into postseason competition. The girls will compete in the Mid Penn Championship Tournament at Camp Hill on October 8 and 9, giving them another opportunity to put their hard work and determination on display.

Congratulations to the team on a successful September, and best of luck at the Mid Penn Championship Tournament!

The East Pennsboro Golf team recently wrapped up its season with 18 golfers on the roster, an encouraging increase in participation for the program. The team welcomed Mr. Kramer as its new head coach this season, providing new leadership as the Panthers continued to develop their skills and compete throughout the fall.

Freshman Max Livingston represented East Pennsboro at the Mid Penn Golf Championships on September 17, competing against some of the area’s top golfers.

Congratulations to the entire team on a successful season!

The East Pennsboro Field Hockey team is off to a promising start this season under new head coach Tayah Bauer. As the team continues to learn and grow together, players are focusing on improving their individual skills while developing the teamwork and cohesion needed to compete as a unit.

That hard work is showing on the field, with games much closer and more competitive than in recent seasons. The Panthers have already earned three victories, defeating Greencastle, Central Dauphin East, and, most recently, Waynesboro.

With the season still underway, the team is continuing to build confidence, strengthen its skills, and grow together as a cohesive team. We look forward to seeing what the remainder of the season brings for Coach Bauer and the Panthers!

The East Pennsboro Marching Band got its competitive season off to a strong start with its first competition at Halifax High School. Competing against four other schools, the band finished 2nd place in its division, just missing the top spot.

The band will continue its competitive season throughout the remainder of September and October, building on each performance and working toward the opportunity to compete at championships at the end of October. The season provides students with opportunities to showcase their musical talent, dedication, teamwork, and hard work.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 17, when East Pennsboro will host its very own marching band competition! The band is looking for volunteers to help make this event a success. Come out to support our Marching Band, enjoy an exciting day of competition, and show your Panther Pride!

Planning to come out and cheer on the Panthers this fall? Before heading to an East Pennsboro athletic event, take a moment to review the District's admission guidelines and ticket information.

Admission Prices

• Varsity Football: Adults $6 | Students $3
• All Other Varsity Sports: Adults $5 | Students $2
• Junior Varsity Only: Adults $3 | Students $1
• Children who have not yet entered kindergarten are admitted free.

A Few Important Reminders

• Elementary and middle school students must be accompanied and supervised by an adult age 21 or older while attending an event.
• Spectators should follow the District's bag guidelines and leave unnecessary items such as coolers, skateboards, scooters, balls, and large backpacks at home.
• Students should remain in the stands to watch the event and should not gather in groups throughout the facility or enter the opposing team's seating or bench area.
• There is no re-admittance after leaving an event.
• As school functions, athletic events follow the same student behavioral expectations as the school day. Spectators are expected to help create a positive environment by supporting our student-athletes and treating others respectfully.

Attend Often? Consider an All Sports Pass!

Families and individual fans who plan to attend multiple regular-season home events can purchase an All Sports Pass through the Athletic Office. A Family Pass is $110 and admits immediate family members, while an Individual Pass is $60. These passes are valid for regular-season home games hosted by East Pennsboro, but are not valid for Mid-Penn, District III, or PIAA playoff events.

For complete admission information, athletic schedules, and ticket purchasing, visit the Athletics & Activities section of the East Pennsboro Area School District website.

Come out, support our student-athletes, and show your Panther Pride!

There are two lunch sessions at EPAHS. Students can deposit lunch money into their accounts by submitting cash or check in an envelope in the main office or online with School Bucks. Please be advised that the vendor charges $3.25 for each transaction, a fee you do not incur if you submit cash or check. 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.

Families who participate in the Free and Reduced Meal Program are reminded that a new application or renewal must be completed each school year.

For the 2026–2027 school year, students who were approved for the program last year are covered by a 30-school-day carryover period. This carryover period ends on October 8, 2026. Beginning October 9, 2026, any student who has not been approved for the current school year will be charged the full-price meal rate. There are no exceptions to this deadline.

Have you already received an approval letter for the 2026–2027 school year? No further action is needed. Approval letters have been mailed to families and are also available through the parent Sapphire Portal.

If you have not received an approval letter and would like your student to participate in the Free and Reduced Meal Program, a renewal or new application must be completed before the October 8 deadline.

How to Apply

Families can complete the application online through COMPASS or access a printable application through the East Pennsboro Area School District website:

EPASD.org → Parents & Guardians → Free & Reduced Meals

Please take a few minutes to check your student's status and complete the application or renewal if needed. Completing the process before the deadline will help ensure there is no interruption in your student's meal benefits.

Questions about the Free and Reduced Meal Program may be directed to the District Business Office at amcbride@epasd.org.

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.

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/