Panther Families,
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The Panther Pulse - Elementary Newsletter: October 2025 Edition
It’s hard to believe we’re already in our 7th week of school! The cooler fall weather has arrived, and with it comes the excitement of Panther activities, Homecoming Week, and all the amazing things happening in our building each day. I continue to be proud of the effort, growth, and positive energy our students bring, and I’m equally thankful for the support and encouragement you provide at home.
By this time of year, students and staff have settled into stronger routines, and the momentum of learning is in full swing. Walking through classrooms and hallways, I see students engaged, teachers inspiring, and Panthers living out our ROAR expectations.
This newsletter is filled with important updates and new information that may pertain to you or your child(ren). I encourage you to take a few minutes to read through carefully and stay connected to all the great things happening at Hershey Elementary. Together, we’ll continue building a strong and positive school year for every Panther.
📬 What’s in the October Newsletter
Fall is here, and our Panthers are off to a strong start in the 7th week of school! Inside this month’s newsletter, you’ll find updates, reminders, and celebrations, including:
🚪 New School Signage – A look at our updated Activities and School Entrances
📌 No School – Monday, October 13 (Columbus Day/Teacher In-Service)
🚜 Elementary Ag Day – Friday, October 17, with livestock and hands-on fun
🍂 Parent-Teacher Conferences – October 23–24, plus sign-up details and why conferences matter
📚 Scholastic Book Fair – October 20–24, proceeds benefit our library
🎀 Red Ribbon Week – October 27–31, with daily dress-up themes
🎃 Halloween Parties & Parade of Costumes – October 31, costume guidelines and livestream info
📖 Academics & Learning – Updates on Really Great Reading (Year 2), Wonders ELA, and fall testing results
🐾 Panthers ROAR – Our new positive behavior program and exciting reward options
🚒 Fire Prevention Week – October 6–10, including PK–3 trip to the fire station
💰 In-School Panther Savings Bank – Now open every Thursday morning for TK–6 students
🏨 Attendance Matters – The importance of being here every day
🏫 Instructional Day Reminders – Start/dismissal times, breakfast, and morning routines
🛝 Recess & Lunch Schedule – Recess before lunch for stronger behavior and focus
🧥 Preparedness for Colder Temps – Dress code guidelines for chilly weather
🚌 Bus Regulations – Expectations, rules, and consequences for student safety
📅 Important Dates to Remember – A full calendar of October events
There’s a lot happening this month at Hershey Elementary—thank you for staying connected and supporting our Panthers as they learn, grow, and thrive!
Jared Thomsen
Elementary Principal
📞 (308) 368-5572
📧 jared.thomsen@hpspanthers.org
Empowering All Students to Reach Their Full Potential.
"Learn, Grow, Thrive – Hershey Public Schools"