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The Dragon Digest

The Dragon Digest
The Dragon Digest
4/18/2026

Celebrating Jarrettown Heroes

There are so many moments throughout the school day that just quietly work—the floors are clean, the cafeteria is ready, a classroom is set just right, a small problem is fixed before it becomes a big one. It’s easy to take those things for granted, but behind each of them is a group of people who care deeply about our school and our kids.


In honor of National School Custodian Week, I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate Brian McCabe, Cynthia Cormany, Terry McGonigle, and Jason McMahon. They are the steady, behind-the-scenes force that keeps Jarrettown running smoothly each and every day.


Of course, they do an outstanding job keeping our building clean, safe, and welcoming—but what really stands out is how they show up for our students. They greet kids with a smile, offer a helping hand, share a kind word, and take the time to build genuine connections. Those small interactions add up in a big way, helping to make our school feel like the warm and supportive place we all want it to be.


They are problem-solvers, fixers, early risers, and late stayers. More importantly, they are trusted adults in our building—people our students know and feel comfortable with. That matters.

We are incredibly fortunate to have Brian, Cynthia, Terry, and Jason as part of the Jarrettown community. Their work often happens in the background, but their impact is felt everywhere.


Please join me in thanking them for all they do—not just this week, but all year long. Thank you, Brian, Terry, Cynthia and Jason!!! You're the best!!


Together,

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Dragon Artists in Action Dragon Artists in Action

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Field Day is Friday, May 22nd (Rain Date Thursday, June 4th).​

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Mrs. Richter needs volunteers to help run each game station. If you are willing and able to volunteer your time (even one session is a huge help!) please click here and complete the necessary information.


Please Note: Pennsylvania state law now requires all school volunteers to have their Level I clearances in order to work directly with students. Obtaining the clearances is a very quick process. They must be turned into the HR department on Ft. Washington Avenue prior to Field Day, at which time you will receive a District Tier 1 Volunteer card. The clearances will be good for any school activity for 5 years.


Please use the following link to obtain your Volunteer Clearances.

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KINDERGARTEN ORIENTATION

Next month, we will host orientations for parents and guardians of incoming kindergarteners for the 2026–2027 school year. These sessions provide a valuable opportunity to meet our team, learn what to expect next year, and have your questions answered. Please note that orientations are open to families of registered students only, so be sure your child is enrolled.


JTES Kindergarten Orientation Date (For Parents Only)

May 27 @ 9:30AM


Enroll Now

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💻 PA SYSTEM OF SCHOOL ASSESSMENT

A reminder that as we approach the PSSAs, please ensure your child brings a fully charged Chromebook and charger for each testing day, and note that no other electronic devices are allowed. You can support your child’s success by making sure they are well-rested and have a healthy breakfast each morning. See the PSSA letter below for more information.

PSSA Information

School Calendar
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Volunteers are needed for our Read‑a‑Thon Glow Bingo on May 7, 2026!

Read-A-Thon Glow Bingo
May 7


Sign up for a 35‑minute grade‑level time slot to help students play bingo and distribute prizes, or volunteer to assist with setup, cleanup, or as a helper for the Read‑a‑Thon Ice Cream Sundae Assembly—please sign up by 4/30.


Sign up to volunteer



Tier 1 clearances required.

Click Here for all the latest PTO NEWS!

📣 DISTRICT REMINDERS 📣 DISTRICT REMINDERS

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Sign up here to join in the effort today!
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Health Services Reminder: Spring Allergies

Spring is in the air, and so is allergy season! If your child experiences symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, or congestion, please consult your healthcare provider. For students requiring medication, please administer doses before school as directed and ensure all required documentation is submitted to the school nurse in advance. Please do not send any medication with your student without first speaking with the nurse. Simple steps like keeping windows closed, washing after outdoor play, and changing clothes can help reduce exposure, and our school health offices are available for any questions.

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Allied & Performing Arts Show

Join us on Thursday, April 30 for the annual Allied & Performing Arts Show. Take a walk through the lobby and hallways of the Upper Dublin High School Performing Arts Center, transformed into a gallery featuring artwork by students in grades 4–12 from across the district. Food trucks will also be on site if you’d like to enjoy dinner.

Allied Arts Flyer

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STEM Summer Academy

Upper Dublin School District is offering two Summer STEM Camp sessions for students in grades K–5, held July 6–9 and July 13–16. Each week features a unique theme and hands-on, inquiry-based learning infused with the Design Thinking Process—encouraging students to innovate, design, create, problem-solve, and collaborate around real-world applications.Cost: $100 per one-week session or $200 for both weeks.


Register Here

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The Upper Dublin Theatre Department proudly presents its Children’s Theatre production of "Tea for Two" on Saturday, May 2. There are two opportunities: 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM. This event will feature a host of characters you know and love, from princesses to monsters! There will be performances, as well as interactive activities such as coloring, planting, and learning proper manners while you have lemonade, iced tea, and cookies! Costumes for little ones are encouraged for photo opportunities with our characters!

Tickets here

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Cardinal Conversations: AI in the Classroom

Join Superintendent Dr. Laurie Smith and Director of Technology Colleen Yenser for an informative, interactive session on the role of artificial intelligence in education. The discussion will cover responsible AI use by students, ways AI can support learning, and the district’s approach to developing policies for safe and effective classroom integration.

Register Here

🌎 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS 🌎 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

Greenfield Youth Film Festival

Wednesday, April 22


AAPI Stories Exhibit Opening Reception

Saturday, May 2


UDJFA Jewish American Heritage Month Event | Registration

Monday, May 4


UDAC Youth Splash & Dash

Sunday, May 17


YMCA Family Triathlon

Sunday, June 21


Basketball Clinic for Grades 3-8

June 22-25


UDPD Cop Camp

August 24-28


Community Announcements


Disclaimer Statement: The information provided in the District’s Community Announcements is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement or recommendation of any specific individual or organization. We offer this platform as a resource for community organizations but cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the details provided.

Michael Ridout
Principal
Jarrettown Elementary

mridout@udsd.org

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