Penn Orchestra Performs Elementary School Pops

“Captain Jack Sparrow” made an appearance at Penn High School today (Tuesday, January 30) performing the Pirates of the Caribbean theme song for 4th and 5th grade students. This mini concert is a great way to introduce students to instruments they might not be familiar with as they think about what possible instrument they might want to pursue in middle school. In P-H-M middle schools, students can pursue orchestra, band or choir as a Fine Arts elective.

Students got a real treat … the Orchestra’s drummers performed a song written by Senior Clayton Hopper; it was called “March of the Clumsy.” All the drummers performed it together to demo percussion.

Orchestra performing at Penn Elementary Pops Concert
Penn Orchestra Elementary School Pops Concert performance
Students watching orchestra performance
Young audience members enjoying the orchestra performance

Penn Orchestra Elementary School Pops Concert

Due to scheduling logistics, only half of P-H-M elementary schools participated and traveled to Penn for this year’s show. The other half attended last year. That way every P-H-M student will see the show in either 4th grade or 5th grade.

Students Lick Their Way to the Center of a Tootsie Pop

It’s the 100th day of school so our Bobcats have been doing activities centered around the number 100.

Debuting in 1970, there is a famous commercial for Tootsie Pops that asks the question: “How many licks does it take to get to the Tootsie Roll center of a Tootsie Pop?”

 

Inspried by the commercial, students made a prediction on if they thought 100 licks would be enough to get to the center. Then they expirmented to see if they were right!

Students were given work sheets that went up to 100. After each lick they would mark a box to see if they were right.

counting licks

Take a look at more photos below!

Little boy in glasses licking a tootsie pop.
Girl in wheelchair licking a tootsie pop at her desk.
Girl in costume licking a tootsie pop.
Young girl licking a tootsie pop in a classroom setting.
Old woman in glasses sitting at a table with a tootsie pop.
Girl in a room with tables, chairs, and other children. She is wearing glasses, a hat, and eating a lollipop.
Child sitting at a desk in a classroom, licking a lollipop while holding a pencil and paper.
Two children enjoying lollipops at a table in a classroom.
Child sitting at a table working on a worksheet with a lollipop.
Person writing on a worksheet at a desk.
Little girl in glasses sitting at a table with toy popsicles.
Young boy in a classroom holding a red lollipop.
Two children in a classroom setting, one licking a tootsie pop, both wearing hats and sitting at a table with papers and
Young boy in glasses holding a lollipop, smiling at camera, sitting at a library desk.
Two children in a classroom setting, one girl licking a tootsie pop, both smiling and enjoying their treats.

Bittersweet Receives PHM Education Foundation Grant

The P-H-M Education Foundation has wrapped up the grant announcements for the 2023-2024 school year; and it’s been a big year with tons of recipients. Bittersweet was the recipient of one grant!

First grade teacher Ms. Jenni McCarthy and 2nd grade teacher Stephanie Black applied for and received $959.20 to purchase “Cracking the Code on Letters and Sounds” toolkits.

Check out the excitement of Bittersweet students when PHMEF Executive Director Jennifer Turnblom arrived with the check …

Transcript: Kids loudly reacting to grant notification

The “Cracking the Code on Letters and Sounds” educational toolkits help teach students phonics  and consist of a book, posters and musical CD that provide opportunities for multiple modes of learning including visual icons, auditory and kinesthetic motor skill movement. This method shares stories while helping students tap into the sounds the letter/letter teams make to facilitate reading skills.

This cycle the Foundation Grants Committee awarded $42,819.63 in funding to 15 EZ grants and 20 traditional grants.

PHMEF has moved to one grant cycle per school year, now moved to the Fall, to allow teachers and schools time to put their grant dollars to good use right away.

Turnblom traveled across the district to surprise various grant recipients with the good news of their funding amount. Grants awarded this year cover a wide array of innovative programs and activities from $10,000 to Grissom Middle School to purchase keyboards for the music room to milkweed plants for Madison Elementary so the school could attract monarch butterflies.

Click here to see the photo gallery on the District’s website of the check deliveries or click to follow PHMEF’s Facebook page.

 

Bittersweet 5th Grade Students Crush the Spellbowl Competition!

On November 13th, 2023, our 5th grade Bittersweet Spellbowl students competed at North Liberty Elementary School for the regional Spellbowl competion.

We took first place!  On November 14th 2023, we found out we tied Central Elementary School in Valparaiso for FIRST PLACE in Indiana!

Way to go, Bobcats! Special thanks to the coaches and support staff for making this possible: Mrs. Leniski, Mrs. Metcalf, and Mrs. Cichoracki!

Penn ASL Students Inspire Bittersweet First Graders with Sign Language

American Sign Language (ASL) students from Penn High School embarked on a special mission to Bittersweet Elementary School today. Their goal? To spread the magic of sign language and raise awareness within the community for the hearing impaired.

Bittersweet students learned the alphabet as well as basic words including colors.

Penn students teach asl to bittersweet students

The visit was not just about learning sign language; it was also about fostering understanding and empathy for the hearing-impaired members of their community. Community outreach is part of the ASL 3 curriculum.

But the story doesn’t end there. On September 15th, 2023, well over 100 students from both Penn High School and Elkhart High School came together in a powerful display of unity. Using the beauty of sign language, the signed the National Anthem at the Elkhart vs Penn football game.

Penn and Elkhart students sign the National anthem

The community outreach of Penn’s ASL program showcases the power of education, empathy, and unity in fostering a more inclusive and compassionate community.

Three people sitting at a table working on activities, possibly in an educational setting.
Teacher standing at front of classroom, giving directions to students.
Three children sitting at a table in a classroom, engaged in an activity.
Young boy in glasses sitting at a table in a classroom, smiling broadly.
Two women posing at a children's classroom desk.
Two children giving peace signs at a table in what appears to be a classroom setting.
Children sitting at a table in a classroom setting, engaged in an activity, surrounded by educational materials and toys.
Man in American flag shorts celebrating on football field.
Woman in black hoodie posing on football field.
Three people standing on a football field; two women wearing red tops and one woman in a white top; all three are giving
Woman in black hoodie standing on football field waving.
Woman in floral shirt directing marching band during performance.
Man in black hoodie gesturing with hands while standing at front of classroom.
Girl in blue sweatshirt pointing at something.
Group of people clapping at a football game.
Woman standing at a table with children, engaged in an activity.
Two people sitting at a table in a classroom setting.
Woman and child sitting at table in classroom setting, smiling at camera.
Two people sitting at a table in a classroom. A child is making a peace sign with their hand while smiling at the camera.
Little girl making a peace sign gesture in front of classmates.
Children in a classroom pointing at something on the floor.
Two children sitting at a table, working on coloring pages, with one child using a pencil to trace an image and the other
Woman sitting on floor next to child, both looking upwards.
Children sitting at a table in a classroom, engaged in an activity involving colorful markers and paper.
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What Fans Need to Know Before Heading to Penn Homecoming Parade & Game

Friday, September 29 is Penn’s Homecoming Parade, Fun Zone, Food Trucks & the Penn football game versus St. Joe. The P-H-M Education Foundation is once again sponsoring all the fun and new this year–FIREWORKS after the football game!

The entire P-H-M community is invited to come out for this fun-filled family event. All the fun starts with the Homecoming Parade. Be sure to grab your spot on the route by 5:00 p.m. Parade starts at 5:30!

Here are some things that will be helpful for families as they head out for all the festivities.

Parking:

  • Paid Parking ($3 cash) at these lots:
    • Penn High School (Front Lot & Jefferson Rd. Lot)
    • Softball/Tennis Lot
    • Bittersweet School Lot
  • Free Parking at these lots:
    • Soccer Lot (Bank Lot)
    • Pennway Lot
    • Schmucker Lot (front, Sides & in Back of School)

Penn 2023 Homecoming Map

Fun Zone:

  • 5-7:00 p.m.
  • Penn Baseball Field
  • Teacher Dunk Tanks, Jumpies for elementary students
    • FREE for EVERYONE!
  • Food Trucks:
    • Ben’s Pretzels
    • Junbuggies
    • Keim’s Elephant Ears
    • Kona Ice
    • Prized Pig
    • REAL Grille
    • Rulli’s Pizza
  • Fans will be allowed to take food purchased at the Food Trucks into the stadium. However, no other outside food will be allowed!

Gate & Ticket Info:

  • Penn vs. St, Joe, Kickoff is 7:30 p.m.
  • P-H-M students K – 5th grade get in FREE with paying adult!
  • Tickets are on sale now-Thurs., Sept. 28 online, ticket price is $6 (students & all other age groups same price)
  • Tickets on Friday, Sept. 29 are $7 (online or at the gate) 
  • PHM Employees plus one guest get in FREE, but you must have ID badge & the guest must be with the employee
  • Please remember middle schoolers cannot be dropped off unsupervised. Once in the game, the students are free to walk around. At least one responsible adult must be onsite.
  • Tickets are sold at the North & South gates only!
  • Penn All Sports Passes and tickets (hard & online) are accepted at all gates
  • The Center Gate is reserved for Penn All Sports Passes and online ticket holders only
  • No Reentry!

Fan Safety:

Rules to Remember:

  • No reentry to Everwise Field; once you leave, you are not allowed back in.
  • No outside food or beverages, no insulated cups
  • No backpacks
    • Diaper bags & large women’s purses are allowed
  • Penn does not have a clear bag policy
  • No electronic noise makers
  • No Footballs or Beach Balls
  • No weapons of any kind
  • No alcohol
  • No Smoking/Vaping products of any kind. All PHM school property is smoke free.
  • No open flames at private tailgating

Info on the Penn Student Homecoming Dance on Saturday, September 30 can found on PHMEF’s website. CLICK HERE. 

Bittersweet Elementary Walkathon: A Step Towards Thriving Education

Bittersweet Elementary recently witnessed an outpouring of support and enthusiasm during its annual Walkathon event. The elementary school, known for fostering an environment where student learning thrives, once again demonstrated the power of community, as students, staff, and some family volunteers came together to raise funds for a brighter future.

walkathon students posing

Incredible Students: The heart of any school is its students, and Bittersweet Elementary boasts an incredible group of young learners who are not only passionate about their education but also eager to make a positive impact on their community. 

Awesome Staff: The staff at Bittersweet Elementary play a pivotal role in shaping the educational experience. They understand that building strong relationships with students is the key to optimal learning. During the Walkathon, they showed their support not only by participating but by cheering on the students every step of the way.

Incredible Support of Families: The backbone of Bittersweet Elementary is its supportive and engaged families. Their generosity and commitment to the school are truly remarkable. Their presence and involvement in the Walkathon highlighted the strong bond between the school and its community.

The funds raised during this year’s Walkathon will contribute to several essential aspects of the school:

1. Classroom Supplies: Ensuring that every classroom is well-equipped with the necessary learning materials is crucial for effective education.

2. Art Program: Encouraging creativity through art is an integral part of Bittersweet Elementary’s curriculum. The funds will help maintain and expand this vital program.

3. Field Trip Transportation: Field trips provide students with hands-on learning experiences. The funds will help cover transportation costs, allowing students to explore the world beyond the classroom.

4. Positive Behavior Rewards (PAWS): Recognizing and reinforcing positive behavior helps create a harmonious and respectful learning environment.

5. Community Building Events: These events foster a sense of belonging and unity among students, staff, and families, enhancing the overall school experience.

6. Student Only Special Days/Activities: Special days and activities add excitement to the school calendar and create cherished memories for students.

7. Extracurricular Education: Supporting extracurricular activities allows students to explore their interests and talents outside of the regular curriculum.

Walkathon students pose

The success of the Walkathon is a testament to the shared commitment to providing Bittersweet Elementary students with the best educational experience possible. The school acknowledges that no donation is too small, and every contribution plays a significant role in shaping the future of its students.

Bittersweet Elementary extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated, donated, and supported the Walkathon. It is through the collective effort of students, staff, and families that this event was a resounding success, reminding us all that at Bittersweet Elementary, the journey of education is truly a community endeavor.

Four young girls posing together in yellow shirts at a track, smiling and giving peace signs.
Group of people posing on a track for a walkathon event.
Two girls posing in front of a stadium, one holding a camera, both smiling for the photo.
Two people standing on track at night. One person wearing a colorful costume and another in casual clothes. Both are smiling.
A group of people walking together in a line on a track.
People running in a stadium during a walkathon event.
Two children walking together on a track in a stadium.
Two young girls posing together in front of an athletic track, both wearing glasses and orange shirts, one holding a blanket
Children walking in a line on a track during a walkathon event.
Group of people walking together in a school setting.
Three children in red shirts standing on a track at a walkathon event.
Four girls in red shirts standing on a track, smiling at the camera.
People walking in a line on a track during a walkathon event.
Boy in orange shirt giving thumbs up at track.
Two young girls posing together in yellow shirts, smiling at the camera, on a field during a walkathon event.
Four children posing in front of a track for a walkathon event.
Girl in blue shirt walking on track during walkathon.
Group of children in colorful tie-dye shirts posing for a picture on a track.
Two young girls posing in front of a track at a walkathon event.
Girl in yellow shirt holding a cat on her shoulder.
Two people at a track during a walkathon event.
Two people standing on a track, one adult and one child, both wearing t-shirts with designs on them.
Four children in colorful tie-dye shirts posing for a picture at a track.
Two girls posing together at a sports event, both wearing red shirts with white lettering and one girl has a cat emblem on
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“Back to School” Boys Basketball League

Boys in grades 2nd to 8th are invited to participate in “Back to School” Basketball League at Penn High School.
2nd – 6th grade League
DATES: September 24th; Oct. 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd 29th

LOCATION:

  • 2nd-4th, Penn Fitness Center
  • 5th-6th, Main Arena/West Balcony/Aux Gym Time

TIMES:

  • 2nd-4th, Sundays, Noon – 4:00 p.m.
  • 5th-6th, Sundays, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

COST: $99

Click here to register online.
7th & 8th grade League
DATES: September 10th, 17th, 24th; Oct. 1st, 8th

LOCATION: Penn High School

TIMES: Sundays, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

COST: $79

Click here to register online.

Questions? Please contact the League Director Coach Smith if you have any questions at

2023 Community Tailgate

This year’s annual Community Tailgate will be a great way to kick off the return of the Backyard Brawl between the Kingsmen and the Mishawaka Cavemen. 

All fans are welcome, Cavemen and Kingsmen! There’s plenty of food for fans on both sides.

Gates open at 5:00 p.m. You must have a ticket to the football game to enter. Once inside the stadium head down to the white tents in the South End Zone, near the Zolman’s Tire & Auto Care South Concession Stand.

For $6 you get your choice of hot dog, hamburger or brat served with a bag of chips, choice of drink, and a cookie. Food tickets for the Tailgate are purchased at the Tailgate.

 

Fall 2023 Penn Youth Girls Basketball League, 3rd-8th grade

Penn Girls Basketball Head Coach Kristi Ulrich is once again offering a fall youth basketball league 

The “Junior” League is open to girls in 3rd – 6th grades. The “Senior” League is for student-athletes in 7th & 8th grades. All those participating in the ”Senior” league MUST live in the P-H-M District or attend a P-H-M School.

Sign-ups are on Sunday, September 10  from 12 – 2 p.m. in the Penn High School Main Arena. Enter Door D. 

The League runs September 17th – November 12th with a single elimination tournament for all age groups.

All games will be played on Sundays at Penn High School in the Main Arena, Auxiliary and West Balcony courts. Tournament times may vary on Nov. 12th.

Weekly Game Times are:

  • 3rd & 4th grades: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • 5th & 6th grades: 12:00 – 2:00 p.m.
  • 7th & 8th grades: 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.