Dear Panther Families,
Click the link to access the Elementary Newsletter: November 2025 Edition🍂
As the crisp fall air rolls in and the clocks prepare to “fall back,” we’re reminded how quickly the seasons change—and how much we have to be thankful for. Daylight Saving Time has arrived, so don’t forget to turn your clocks back this weekend and enjoy that extra hour of rest!
We are now entering Week 4 of 10—15 of 45 days into Quarter 2, and it’s incredible to see how much growth and progress our students continue to make each day. Their hard work and enthusiasm are matched only by the dedication of our staff and the unwavering support of our families.
A huge thank you to all our parents and guardians for making Parent-Teacher Conferences such a success—with an outstanding 98.11% attendance rate! Your commitment to partnering with us in your child’s education truly makes a difference and reflects the strength of our Panther community.
Please remember that Fall Break arrives on Friday, November 7, 2025—there will be no school for PK–12 students. We hope you take this long weekend to rest, recharge, and enjoy the beauty of the season with family and friends.
This November, we celebrate gratitude, growth, and the joy of learning together. Thank you for continuing to make Hershey Elementary such a special place for our students to learn, lead, and ROAR with pride!
📬 What’s in the November Newsletter
📌 No School – Friday, November 7 (Fall Break for PK–12 students)
🎖️ Veterans Day Program – Tuesday, November 11 at 9:30 AM – Join us in the Activity Center to honor our heroes
📘 Quarter 2 Mid-Term – Wednesday, November 12 – Progress reports sent home; check PowerSchool & Rooms for updates
🐾 Panther P.A.W.S. – Student Mentorship Program – High school mentors connecting with younger Panthers (next meeting Nov. 12)
🍎 American Education Week – November 17–21 – Celebrating everyone who makes education possible at Hershey Public Schools
🦃 Thanksgiving Break – November 26–30 – No school; time to rest, recharge, and give thanks with family
💛 A Season of Gratitude – Thank-you highlights for Red Ribbon Week, Ag Day, Book Fair, Parade of Costumes, and community partnerships
🌟 October Student of the Month – Congratulations, Corben Maxcy! – Recognized for kindness, leadership,
and positivity
🎉 October ROAR Nominees – Celebrating students who model Respect, Ownership, Attitude, and Responsibility
📖 Academics & Learning – Updates on Really Great Reading (Year 2), new spelling approach in grades 1–3, and ongoing literacy growth
🐾 Panthers ROAR Program – Positive behavior initiative rewarding Respect, Ownership, Attitude, and Responsibility; first ROAR Assembly on Nov. 24
💰 In-School Panther Savings Bank – Open every Thursday morning; savings accounts and $5 match for new depositors
🏨 Attendance Matters – Consistent attendance builds academic success and social growth
🏫 Instructional Day Reminders – Doors open 7:50 AM; instruction 8:15–3:35 (Mon–Thu) / 8:15–2:33 (Fri)
🛝 Recess & Lunch Schedule – Recess before lunch supports better focus and behavior
🧥 Preparedness for Colder Temps – Coat and pants required below 40°, sweatshirt recommended below 60°
🚌 Bus Regulations – Expectations, safety rules, and discipline procedures for student riders
📅 Important Dates to Remember
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"