Take 5 with Dr. Friedman

Welcome to This Week’s Take 5!

It’s been an eventful week across the Quakertown Community School District, and we’ve got plenty to share with you. Inside, you’ll find important information about Federal Program Funding and an upcoming meeting on November 19 for families to learn more about these resources. We also included a look back at this week's meaningful Veterans Day celebrations at Richland and Neidig Elementary Schools on Veterans Day.

Plus, discover how you can nominate your favorite teacher or staff member for the Superintendent Spotlight Award, and learn how to join our district-wide food drive — with a friendly goal to beat Pennridge!

Finally, don’t miss our reminders about fun happenings coming up next week when QPAC turns into Hogwart's!

Have a great weekend Quakertown.

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

Quakertown Community School District (QCSD) receives federal funding through Titles I, II, III, and IV of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) to support equitable educational opportunities for all students. These funds are managed under the umbrella of Federal Programs to enhance instruction, improve achievement, and provide targeted services aligned to student needs. Funding allocations are based on demographic and performance data reported annually to PDE (Pennsylvania Department of Education).

Title I provides financial assistance to schools with higher percentages of students from low-income families. In QCSD, Title I supports 3 schools by funding reading specialists and parent engagement initiatives. Title II is used district-wide for professional development, mentoring, and coaching initiatives that build teacher and principal capacity, especially in evidence-based practices. Title III supports English Language Development (ELD) services for multilingual learners through staff training, instructional resources, and outreach to families. Title IV enhances student support and academic enrichment, often funding technology tools, positive behavior supports, and safe school environments.

These federal programs allow QCSD to strategically close achievement gaps, ensure consistent access to high-quality instruction, and offer supplemental supports where most needed.

Join us November 19th at 12pm for our Virtual Federal Programs discussion!

Click HERE to join the Google Meet

Video Presentation: Click HERE

Review Slides: Click HERE

Take the Survey: Click HERE

Richland and Neidig Elementary Schools each celebrated Veterans Day with meaningful tributes to our local heroes.

At Richland, students welcomed Veterans to the school’s third annual assembly, featuring moving musical performances, student-led presentations, and a photo collage honoring those who have served.

Neidig’s celebration highlighted student connections through its “Hall of Honor,” classroom visits, and conversations with Veterans about their experiences, leadership, and service.

Both schools extend heartfelt thanks to all Veterans who joined their events. Your courage and dedication continue to inspire our students and community.

Each month, the Quakertown Community School District proudly recognizes an outstanding employee through the Superintendent Spotlight Award. This award honors a teacher, staff member, or employee who goes above and beyond to support students and enrich our school community.

Recipients of the Superintendent’s Spotlight demonstrate dedication, care, and a commitment to excellence that makes QCSD a truly special place to learn and grow. Thank you for all you do to inspire, lead, and make a difference every day!

To nominate a member of the QCSD Team, click HERE!

Congratulations to all our Superintendent Spotlight Winners for the month of October:

It’s that time of year again — when Quakertown Community School District schools come together to give back to our community and have some spirited fun doing it! From classroom competitions to school-wide showdowns, our students and staff are rallying to make a big difference for local families in need.

Some schools are taking the competition to the next level, hosting friendly battles among grade levels to see who can donate the most. But there’s one goal that unites us all: beat PENNRIDGE! Every year, Quakertown Community High School steps up to the challenge, aiming to donate more than our neighboring district — and this year is no different.

So, how can you get involved? Bring your donations and drop them off at Quakertown Community High School, Strayer Middle School, Quakertown Elementary School, or Richland Elementary School by November 21st!

Every can, box, and bag helps our community and gets us closer to claiming the title.

Do it for our community. Do it for the cause. Do it for the Do Good Win!

Let’s show our #PantherPride and make this year’s food drive our biggest and best yet!

A. The Holiday Card Art Contest Drawings are DUE 11/21

The winning designs will be featured on the official QCSD Holiday Card, shared with families, staff, and community partners throughout the district. It’s a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their artistic talents and help represent the creativity and pride that make QCSD shine!

Deadline: Friday, November 21st by 5 PM

Click HERE to Enter!

B. Winter Holiday Concerts start Tuesday, 11/18

Don't miss the first concert of the season! Join us on Tuesday, 11/18 at Strayer Middle School for the QCHS, Strayer and SGC Orchestra Concert at 6:30pm.
And don't forget - the following evening the SGC Band Concert will also be at Strayer Middle School on Wednesday, 11/19 starting at 6:30pm!

C. Harry Potter & the Cursed Child runs 11/21 - 11/23

Tickets are on sale now! Online sales will close on Thursday, November 20th at 11:59 p.m., so be sure to reserve your seats early. If tickets remain after online sales end, they will be available for purchase at the door on the day of each performance. Join us for an unforgettable evening of magic, friendship, and courage.

Tickets:
Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 7:30pm
https://www.msbtickets.com/quakertownseniorhighschool/event/9bs2sy7r

Sat, Nov 22, 2025 at 7:30pm
https://www.msbtickets.com/quakertownseniorhighschool/event/604b2yyj

Sun, Nov 23, 2025 at 2:30pm

https://www.msbtickets.com/quakertownseniorhighschool/event/eazc5fbq

D. QCSD School Board Meetings Coming Up:
Mark your calendars for the last Board Meetings of 2025. Join us at 100 Commerce Drive, Quakertown PA 18951 or on Youtube by clicking HERE.

- November 19, 2025 at 7pm

- December 2, 2025 at 6pm

In the 2025-26 school year, 2 elementary schools and the Sixth Grade Center receive Title I Assistance funding. 100% of teachers in QCSD participated in at least one Title II-funded professional learning session. Title III funds support over 200 multilingual learners across the district including family engagement events.