Hamburg Area High School Newsletter
October 2026
Dear Hamburg Families,
As we settle into the fall season and the weather starts to cool, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support in making this school year a success. With the first marking period ending on Thursday, October 29, it’s an important time for students to stay focused and finish strong. This newsletter includes a few updates and reminders as we move through what’s always a busy stretch of the year.
Fall is a great time to reflect and appreciate the progress we’ve made so far. Our students continue to do great things in the classroom, on the field, and in the arts, and we’re excited to keep that momentum going through the rest of the year.
Warm regards,
Ryan McGinley
Principal
Time to Apply to BCTC!
The 2027-2028 BCTC application process has begun!
What Do You Need to Complete Your BCTC Application?
1. Complete the Online Application
Start here: https://berkscareer.com/apply-to-bctc/
2. Get Two Teacher Recommendations
Ask two teachers to complete the Teacher Recommendation Forms. Teachers will return the completed forms directly to Mrs. Del Conte. You may print the forms from BCTC’s website or see Mrs. Del Conte for the forms.
3. Complete the Career Exploration Application Essay
- Use O*NET Online to research the career and BCTC program for which you are applying.
- Complete the Career Exploration Response Form.
- You must complete a response for both your first choice and second-choice programs.
- Your written responses will be evaluated on your career planning, preparation, and interest.
Need help? Ask Mrs. Del Conte for the Career Exploration Application Essay handout.
4. Complete the BCTC Admissions Agreement
Complete the Admissions Agreement with your parent/guardian and give it to Mrs. Del Conte. You can get a copy from Mrs. Del Conte or print one from the BCTC website.
5. Check In with Mrs. Del Conte
Once you have completed all the required steps, stop by the library or email shadel@hasdhawks.org to confirm that your application packet is complete.
IMPORTANT DEADLINE: WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2!
Level Up Your Senior Year: Healthcare Opportunities
Interested in Healthcare?
Turn your senior year into a real-world career exploration experience!
- Explore career possibilities.
- Gain valuable experience.
- Build your resume.
- Discover if healthcare is right for you!
Berks Career & Technology Center-Medical Health Professions (MHP)
This program combines high level academics with the opportunity to shadow healthcare professionals and earn college credits. The program exposes high school seniors to various healthcare professions so they can make more informed decisions about their future education. Students will be enrolled at both Penn State Berks and BCTC for one year. Students will take dual credit college courses at Penn State Berks two days a week, attend classes on medical-related theory two days a week at the Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences, and shadow healthcare providers at the hospital one day a week.
Click HERE to learn more about the MHP program at BCTC.
Applications due to Mrs. Del Conte no later than Wednesday, December 2!
Reading Hospital Tower Health Internship Program
This High School Internship Program provides students with a practical supplement to conventional classroom training by introducing students to a broad range of non-clinical, practical experience through the work environment at Reading Hospital that enhances their academic, professional, and personal development.
Students apply their knowledge and skills through hands-on activities while interacting and networking with hospital staff.
Click HERE to learn more about the Reading Hospital Tower Health Internship Program.
See Mrs. Del Conte to register for the Information Session taking place on
Monday, November 2 in the High School Library at 1:30pm.
Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center High School Internship Program
Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center offers a High School Internship Program to incoming Berks County high school seniors interested in pursuing a career in healthcare after graduation. This unpaid internship provides students with the opportunity to explore career paths, gain real-world experience and determine the direction best suited for future success.
Click HERE to learn more about the Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center High School Internship Program
See Mrs. Del Conte to register for the Information Session taking place on
Thursday, November 12 in the High School Library during FLEX.
Geisinger St. Luke's Volunteer Internship Experience
Ignite your passion for serving others!
Geisinger St. Luke’s Junior Volunteer Program, designed for individuals aged 14 and older who demonstrate a high degree of responsibility and maturity. As a participant, you'll engage with patients, visitors, and staff, experiencing the vital roles they play. This opportunity offers numerous benefits, equipping you with the skills needed for future professional roles.
Students in grades 9-12 are able to apply for this Volunteer Internship Experience!
Click HERE for more information about the Geisinger St. Luke's Volunteer Program.
If you would like to apply for this program, please see Mrs. Del Conte in
the High School Library.
Explore Manufacturing. Earn a Certification. Pay $0!
Starting in January 2027, Hamburg students have an exciting opportunity to participate in a FREE, four-month long manufacturing program during the school day.
What's in it for you?
- Explore hands-on technical training and real-world career opportunities.
- Discover exciting career paths in the manufacturing industry.
- Earn your Certified Manufacturing Associate Certification upon completion.
- Gain valuable skills to help you stand out in the workforce.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday, November 13, 2026
Want to learn more? Click HERE
Ready to Apply? Stop by the High School Library and see Mrs. Del Conte!
Your future starts now. Don't miss out on this opportunity!
Get a Head Start on your Future!
Kutztown University Early College Academy
Provides accelerated access to college and careers for high school students.
Has three tracks: Education, Exploratory Studies, & Health Sciences
Current Juniors may apply for their Senior year
Unique combination of Dual Enrollment and a Professional Field Experience (PFE)
How is KU Early College Academy Different from other kinds of Dual Enrollment?
High school seniors will come to KU for almost ½ a day.
They will take two courses each semester, equivalent to a minimum of 12 credits, or one semester of college, prior to graduation.
Students will be in a cohort to meet other potential college students, developing a sense of connection and community to support their transition to college.
Click HERE for more information about this program.
Register for a Virtual Information Session!
Thursday, November 12, 6-7.30 p.m.
Tuesday, December 8, 5.30-7 p.m.
Wednesday, January 27, 2027, 6-7.30 p.m.
Application expected to open in November. Deadline to Apply: Friday, January 27, 2027!
Have questions or would like help with the application process?
See Mrs. Del Conte in the High School Library.
SENIOR COLLEGE WORKSHOPS (WORK SESSIONS)
Location: HS Library Time: During Club Period (7:41am-8:20am)
Register: If a senior did not previously sign up, see your Counselor or Mrs. Fink in the Counseling Office, or simply stop down that morning! Participation is encouraged!
October 23, 2026- FAFSA & Financial Aid Workshop. This event has ended. Students created their Studentaid account and started working on their FAFSA. Great job to all who attended!
November 20, 2026- Esther Ludwig Scholarship & FAFSA (students will begin the online portion of the application and gather required documents). Esther Ludwig Scholarship application packets will be distributed to eligible students.
December 11, 2026- Esther Ludwig Completion Session. Get it done before holiday break!
January 15, 2027- Scholarship Search Session and BCCF Scholarship
FINANCIAL AID
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available and must be completed for any student applying to college. Any senior planning to continue their education after high school either at a Beauty School, Trade School, Community College such as RACC, LCCC, or a Public or Private 4-Year College, will need to complete the FAFSA form along with their parent/guardian.
Get started today: 🏃♀️➡️
- 1st Student will: Create a Student Aid Account
- 2nd Student will Start the 2027-2028 Form
- 3rd Student will invite their parent/guardian to their FAFSA form and will link your application together. FAFSA Facebook PHEAA Facebook
PHEAA is the state's financial aid organization that assists eligible Pennsylvanians with affording higher education. All students should also apply for state grant funds each year they are enrolled in college. Keep checking email (after a completed FAFSA) for the opening of the PHEAA grant application.
SAT REGISTRATION
SAT Exam Dates 2026-2027
Register online. Students must review Bluebook, the online exam program. All students with Chromebooks already have the Bluebook app downloaded on their computer and can access it when logged out.
- November 7, 2026 (Registration Deadline 10/23)
- December 5, 2026 (Registration Deadline 11/20)
- March 6, 2027 (Registration Deadline 2/19)
- May 1, 2027 (Registration Deadline 4/16)
- June 5, 2027 (Registration Deadline 5/21)
SAT Preparation!
Do not take an exam without studying. Use Collegeboard resources or sign up for a prep course.
SAT Prep Collegboard
Do not take an exam without studying. Use Collegeboard resources or sign up for a SAT prep course. Khan Academy is a free service linked to Collegeboard. Check it out!
PSU Berks SAT Prep
SAT Prep Private
Your Study Connection, Dr. Shaunna Crossen 💲
- Services available: College planning, Essay writing, SAT Prep, and more!
REQUEST YOUR HIGH SCHOOL TRANSCRIPT
Interested in Playing Sports in College?
DI or DII Level- Students must qualify with NCAA eligibility (High School GPA of 2.3 in core subjects. PS classes or higher). College scholarship eligible.
DIII Level- No high school eligibility rules to qualify to play, but must meet standards to be admitted to the college. No scholarship offered.
Red Ribbon Week
"Make a difference. Be a hero. Stay drug Free”
Every year Red Ribbon Week takes place from October 23rd through 31st.
The Red Ribbon Campaign serves as a catalyst to mobilize communities, educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities. This year’s Red Ribbon Week theme reminds students that choosing to live drug-free is an act of courage, leadership, and strength. The choices young people make every day can have a positive impact on their friends, families, schools, and communities.
Our Student Assistance Program partners at the Caron Foundation have created short video resources for every day of Red Ribbon Week! Use the link below to watch them with your family.
Supporting Teens in Building Healthy Relationships
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of safe, respectful, and healthy relationships. High school is a key time for teens to learn what those relationships look like — with friends, family, and dating partners. Parents and caregivers play a big role in shaping how young people understand communication, respect, and boundaries.
Here are a few ways you can support your teen:
Listen without judgment – Create space for your teen to talk about friendships or dating without fear of getting in trouble.Model healthy communication – Show what it looks like to handle disagreements calmly and respectfully.
Talk about boundaries – Help your teen understand that it’s okay to say “no” and to expect respect from others.
Encourage balance – Remind them it’s healthy to keep time for school, hobbies, and friends outside of a relationship.
Discuss red flags – Talk about warning signs like jealousy, control, or pressure — and remind them these are not signs of love.
By keeping open and caring conversations going, you’re helping your teen build confidence and strong, healthy relationships that last a lifetime.
Resources for Parents
Love Is Respect – www.loveisrespect.org
A national resource offering education and 24/7 chat, text, and phone support about healthy dating relationships.
HealthyChildren.org – www.healthychildren.org
Created by the American Academy of Pediatrics, with articles on communication, emotions, and teen development.
CDC: Teen Dating Violence Prevention – www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention
Information on how to prevent unhealthy relationship patterns and promote safety.
National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Free and confidential help for anyone who feels unsafe or needs relationship support.
Safe Berks – www.safeberks.org
Provides free, confidential services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Berks County, PA. Services include a 24/7 hotline, emergency shelter, counseling, legal assistance, and community outreach.
24/7 Hotline: 844-789-SAFE (7233)
Text: SAFE BERKS to 20121
Main Office: 255 Chestnut Street, Reading, PA 19602
Blood Drive
We’re also proud of everyone who participated in October’s Blood Drive, which collected 23 liters of blood in partnership with Miller-Keystone. Our next drive will be held on March 10th, and we’re already aiming to double our collection, so mark your calendars!
Holiday Dance
Looking ahead, our next big event will be the Holiday Dance on Friday, December 11th, 6-10pm @ C.J. Hummels. Students must first register on the Google form for a ticket.
Cost: $30
Please remember that guest forms must be submitted before ticket sales start if you plan to bring someone from another school. We’re looking forward to a fun evening to celebrate the season together!
Kalahari Waterpark
This year the senior's will be traveling to Kalahari Waterpark in the Poconos for their senior trip. More details to follow.
News and Tips from the Nurse's Office
There are still many students who do not have their health history update completed in Sapphire. Please take the time to do this as soon as possible.
All 11th grade students are required by PA State law to have a physical examination. If you have not yet submitted this form, it is due now! If you need the physical form, please check out the Health Services page on the HASD website. It would be located under forms. You can also have your student stop by the nurse’s office to pick up a paper copy.
Annual Health Screenings
We are planning to complete the annual health screenings for students in grades 9–12 in November. These screenings will include:
Height
Weight
Vision
In addition, 11th grade students will also have their hearing screened.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding these requirements or upcoming screenings, please feel free to reach out to me.
Thank you for your cooperation in helping us keep our students' health records up to date.
Melissa Dunn M.Ed., BSN, RN, CSN
Certified School Nurse
Hamburg Area High School
610-562-2241 ext. 2560
Spotlight on Music and Performing Arts News & Events
HAMA
Any parents interested in joining the Hamburg Area MUSIC ASSOCIATION (HAMA) parent organization, please email Hama.Officers@gmail.com
HAMA meets in the HS Band Room every 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7pm.
DRAMA
A Christmas Carol Production- Friday, November 20th & Saturday November 21st @ 7PM (HS Auditorium)
- Sunday, November 22 @ 2PM (HS Auditorium)
Buy tickets online or at the door: https://sites.google.com/view/hamburg-hawks-performing-arts/tickets
CHOIR
Trebles performed at a local concert with the Blue Mountain Heritage Chorus on October 5
In October, 10th-12th grade students went to Governor Mifflin High School to audition for Senior County Chorus. Congratulations to Karly MacBride (sophomore Tenor I), Landon Poulios (senior Tenor II), Oakley Bogardus (senior Soprano 1), Sophia Garretson (junior Soprano I), Ellie Grim (senior Soprano II alt.1) & Lucy Lytle (junior Alto I + Piano Accompanist) for qualifying for MEBC Senior County Chorus.
We also had 9th-12th grade students travel to Parkland High School to audition for District Chorus. Congratulations to Lucy Lytle (junior) for qualifying for PMEA District 10 Chorus as an Alto 1.
BAND/ORCHESTRA
- The Marching Band is rolling along. We have played two home games, First Responders night on 9/11 and last week on 9/18. Our next game we will be cheering on the Hawks and finding out who will win Homecoming court. In October we have two home games and two aways at Schuylkill Valley (Frost Bowl) and Kutztown. We will be participating in the King Frost parade on Saturday, October 31st at 7pm. Shout out to the student section and their amazing school spirit!
