Friday, May 1, 2026
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May has arrived (can you believe it?!), and with it comes a season full of celebration, appreciation, and a whole lot of Pirate pride. From National School Principals’ Day and Teacher Appreciation Month, to the bright traditions of May Day, and the heartfelt appreciation of Mother’s Day, this time of year reminds us how much there is to honor and enjoy.
Here in the PSD, May is bursting at the seams. Our seniors are charting their final course toward graduation, spring events are in full swing, and every corner of our community is buzzing with energy, achievement, and a few well-earned celebrations along the way.
So hoist the sails—it’s a big month ahead. And as always, we’re glad you’re along for the journey.
Enjoy this week’s Patch-perfect edition!
Following is a handful of photo highlights from recent events and activities. THANK YOU to our PTA/PTOs, Kim Casterline, Lynsay Fitzgerald, Dawn Smigo, Cheryl Stevens, our athletic teams posting on InstaGram, our parent photographers and friends, our building principals, and Christmas City who share these photos for the newsletter every week. It would not be possible without you. You are appreciated! (Click or tap on an image to stop the carousel. Use the arrows to go forward and back at your own pace.)
DISTRICT DISPATCH
DISTRICT DISPATCH
Your guide to timely information in the Palisades School District.
May 1st is National School Principals' Day!
May 1st is National School Principals' Day!
Thank You to Mrs. Marie Collie, Mr. Scott Davis, Mrs. Amber Schlosser, Dr. Karl Scheibenhofer, Mr. Rich Heffernan, and Dr. Rich Spering!
Behind every smooth-sailing school day is a crew of dedicated leaders guiding the way. Thank you for your steady leadership, your unwavering focus on students, and the countless ways you work behind the scenes to create positive, supportive school environments across our district. Your commitment does not go unnoticed—we are truly grateful for all that you do to help our students learn, grow, and thrive. 💜💛
Upper Bucks 250 Heritage Day @ Tinicum Park Is Saturday, May 16th!
Upper Bucks 250 Heritage Day @ Tinicum Park Is Saturday, May 16th!
As many of you know, a local event as part of the America 250 year of celebration, is taking place on Saturday, May 16 at Tinicum Park (flyer attached). I sit on the planning committee and, in conjunction with many of our teachers, staff, and students, lots of Palisades-prepared components will be part of the day - from artwork, to historical videos, to a live band performance (at 1 PM). It should be a great day to celebrate the rich history of Upper Bucks and its influence on our nation's independence. You can find out more about the event here: https://www.buckscounty.gov/2199/Upper-Bucks-250-Heritage-Day-at-Tinicum-
Note: While this event is taking place at Tinicum Park, it is in celebration of the entire Upper Bucks region, so everyone in Palisades is encouraged to attend!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
We are looking for volunteers to help on the ground the day of the event. Set up starts at 8:00 AM and volunteers can sign up for a two-hour shift throughout the day until 6:00 PM. Volunteer activities include: assisting with parking, providing general information at the main information booth or assisting in one of the designated areas (tradition crafters, community organizations, performer’s stage, as well as greeters in the historic buildings). If you know someone who may be interested in volunteering they can sign up by clicking here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094AABA623ABFECF8-63388357-upper#/
Questions? Email ashollander@buckscounty.org
SCHOOL NEWS
SCHOOL NEWS
Find out what's happening in our schools! The Palisades School District is comprised of three elementary schools (Durham Nockamixon, Springfield, and Tinicum), Palisades Middle School, and Palisades High School.
Earth Day Collaboration (and FUN!) 🌎🌳
Earth Day Collaboration (and FUN!) 🌎🌳
Students from Palisades High School’s Key Club teamed up with our 4th and 5th grade classes at Tinicum Elementary for an Earth Day activity—and it was an absolute blast!
Centered around the theme of “Trees,” students explored what helps trees thrive (like sunlight) and what can harm them (like pollution). They also enjoyed a reading of The Giving Tree and wrapped up the experience with a collaborative art project, using painted handprints to create vibrant “leaves.”
A perfect blend of learning, creativity, and connection—just the kind of hands-on fun that helps our students grow 🌱💜
"Hold On, You Matter" Suicide Prevention Walk
"Hold On, You Matter" Suicide Prevention Walk
A big thank you to the Palisades High School students and staff who volunteered and participated in the Bucks County "Hold On, You Matter" Suicide Prevention Walk on April 25 at Bucks County Community College.
Students from the Palisades High School Key Club and Stand Up to Silence Club assembled bracelet kits with positive words and messages to hand out at the event. Students also created inspirational messages and artwork along the walking path. It was a powerful day that highlighted the importance of showing up and supporting one another while also raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. It was a good reminder that no one is alone and help is available in this strong, connected, and compassionate community.
National Honor Society
National Honor Society
Congratulations to our National Honor Society inductees and a big thank you to our NHS officers!
We are so, so proud of you all.
Palisades High School Receives Pennsylvania State Modern Language Association's Golden Globe Award 26-28 for its Exemplary Language Program
Palisades High School Receives Pennsylvania State Modern Language Association's Golden Globe Award 26-28 for its Exemplary Language Program
The World Language Department would like to share the fantastic news that we have been awarded the Pennsylvania State Modern Language Association's Golden Globe Award for exemplary language program.
The Gold status is the highest of the recognitions given to schools and we will be among the elite group of schools to have achieved that status. There were only 10 out of 500 districts who achieved Gold status and no others in Bucks County. We met the rigorous 11 indicators necessary to be considered and after an intense 5 month self-study, we submitted our application. We previously won the Gold status in 2020.
Find our more about the PSMLA here: https://psmla.org/
Congratulations to our "Educators with Real Impact" Nominees!
Congratulations to our "Educators with Real Impact" Nominees!
RENEE MCKINNON (PARAPROFESSIONAL, DURHAM NOCKAMIXON ELEMENTARY)
We are thrilled to share that Chris and Amanda Smith have nominated her for this recognition! Here is what they had to say about the impact she’s made:
"Mrs. McKinnon; the super star!!! She was the support staff in our son's kindergarten class and now for our daughter's class. We could not thank her enough for always being so caring and kind to our children. We often get told about how many hugs or how many times Mrs. McKinnon helped tie shoes or helped put band-aids on. She has always gone above and beyond in our eyes! Thank you for loving our kids while they are at school!"
COURTNEY STERNER (KINDERGARTEN TEACHER, DURHAM NOCKAMIXON ELEMENTARY)
Chris and Amanda Smith have also nominated Miss Sterner for this recognition! Here is what they had to say about the impact she’s made:
"We are so thankful for Miss Sterner. She has really made an impact on our daughter's first year at Durham. We love her positive attitude and warm welcoming heart. All we hear about is how much our daughter loves to go to school because of Miss Sterner! Thank you for your patience, caring hands and warm heart!"
You are AMAZING and we are grateful for all that you do for our students and our community every day!
PSD Spring Sports
PSD Spring Sports
Our season is almost over! Come on out and cheer for our Pirates!
You can find a complete calendar of PSD athletic events here.
Let's Go, Pirates!!!
Palisades Area Girls Flag Football Youth Camp
Palisades Area Girls Flag Football Youth Camp
Join the Fun. Build Skills. Play the Game! Open to girls in grades 2nd - 8th grades.
DATE: July 13th, 14th, & 15th
TIME: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
LOCATION: Palisades High School, Football Stadium
COST: Fee: $60.00 per participant ($100.00 for two siblings)
Who Can Sign Up?
Girls of all skill levels are welcome! Whether you're new to flag football or looking to improve your game, this camp is for you.
What to Expect:
Skill development & drills
Teamwork & game strategies
Fun scrimmages
Positive coaching environment
What to Bring:
Athletic wear
Cleats or sneakers
Water bottle
You can register using the QR code or via the following link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf_2odQ33hDvk_NN6FK9wIL75LcsDES58dy_20V4qdcL0ylvA/viewform
The Palisades High School Snack Shack is Celebrating its 40th Year and Needs an Upgrade...YOU Can Help!
The Palisades High School Snack Shack is Celebrating its 40th Year and Needs an Upgrade...YOU Can Help!
The All-Sports Boosters Crew is looking for a contractor, homeowner, remodeler, or business willing to donate gently used or new countertops from a renovation or upgrade project. The current countertops are peeling and worn and the kitchen cabinets are 23 years old and falling apart. They are also looking for volunteers to help with the upgrade project.
Why does this matter? All money raised through the Snack Shack goes directly back to support the Palisades High School athletes. The Snack Shack supports school spirit, student activities, and brings our community together at games and events. Your support makes a lasting impression on our athletes.
Interested in helping? Please contact the All-Sports Boosters to donate materials, labor and volunteer time.
Email: psdsportsboosters@gmail.com
Call/Text:
Lynsay Fitzgerald @ 201-675-7443
Amy Kapp @ 610-428-7621
THANK YOU for supporting the Palisades Pirates and our student athletes!
Lynsay Fitzgerald, Amy Kapp, and Amy Stump
The PHS Baseball Program Hosts 2026 Purse Bingo on Sunday, May 3rd
The PHS Baseball Program Hosts 2026 Purse Bingo on Sunday, May 3rd
Date: May 3rd
Time: 1:00-4:00PM
Location: Bridgeton AA, 340 Bridgeton Hill Road, Upper Black Eddy
Tickets: $30.00 in advance/$35.00 at the door
Purchase tickets using the QR code on the flyer or at the link HERE.
***All proceeds support the High School Baseball Program***
If you have any questions, you can contact ralkhas@palisadessd.org
Upper Bucks County Technical School 2026 Summer Camp
Upper Bucks County Technical School 2026 Summer Camp
Explore Career Pathways Opportunities!
Programs Offered:
Graphic Communications
Agricultural Science
Carpentry
Culinary Arts
Programs subject to change.
Dates: June 22-25, 2026
Times: 8:00-11:00AM (Students Entering Grades 3-5); 12:00-3:00PM (Students Entering Grades 6-8)
Location: Upper Bucks County Technical School, 3115 Ridge Rd, Perkasie, PA 18944
Cost: $150.00 (Cash or Check)
Register online HERE.
Checks made payable to UPPER BUCKS COUNTY TECHNICAL SCHOOL. Mail or drop off payment at: Upper Bucks County Technical School, 3115 Ridge Rd, Perkasie, Pa 18944. Attention: Caprice Reinheimer.
FAMILY CORNER
FAMILY CORNER
Information in this section will be particularly helpful for those who have students in our schools.
New Video Series: "Journeys in Special Education with Lou deFonteny"
New Video Series: "Journeys in Special Education with Lou deFonteny"
We’re excited to introduce a new video series designed to inform, support, and connect our community: "Journeys in Special Education with Lou deFonteny." This series offers a clear, approachable look at the foundations of special education and the services available to support every learner.
In the first episode, Mr. deFonteny, Director of Students for the Palisades School District, breaks down key concepts including FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education), the range of special education services, and the differences between special education and 504 services. His thoughtful guidance helps demystify these important topics, offering families a better understanding of how we work together to meet the unique needs of each student.
We invite you to tune in, learn more, and continue the journey with us as we highlight the programs and practices that support all learners across our district.
We would like to extend a huge THANK YOU to Brian Gilbert, Moriah Hoferica, Autumn Jacoby, and the PHS Studio for their time and production support!
You can find the first episode here: https://youtu.be/z5Y2TrMRsnI
Need Help With the Medical Assistance Process in COMPASS? We Can Help!
Need Help With the Medical Assistance Process in COMPASS? We Can Help!
Did you know that the Palisades School District offers personal assistance with completing the Medical Assistance application in COMPASS? Medical Assistance (Medicaid) is a public health insurance program that covers children with disabilities as well as families who experience low income. Navigating medical care for your family can be challenging, and we are here to help you with the application process and can answer questions you may have.
This program can provide access to necessary services such as doctor visits, dental care, eye exams/glasses and more. Did you know there are organizations that offer discounted admissions to ACCESS Card holders? Summer is coming and this would be a good time to get the application started.
Families who are interested in applying and looking for assistance with the process can email Jessica Kressler, Secretary to the Director of Student Services for the Palisades School District, at jkressler@palisadessd.org or call 610-847-5131 Ext 4026 for more information.
Not sure if this is right for you? We've included some links below that can also provide helpful information.
A direct link for resources on Medicaid Benefits: Apply for Medicaid Benefits | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania can be found here: https://www.pa.gov/services/dhs/apply-for-medicaid-benefits
For info on the children with special needs (PH 95) eligibility category: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dhs/resources/medicaid/medicaid-children-special-needs-ph95
To apply online: https://www.compass.dhs.pa.gov/home/#/
County Assistance Office (CAO) information: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dhs/contact/cao-information
Families can also reach out to the statewide customer service center with questions: 877-395-8930.
Palisades Pre-K Family Nights
Palisades Pre-K Family Nights
Palisades School District invites parents and their four/five-year old preschool children to join us for Family Night. While a Palisades Teacher enjoys stories and activities with the children, parents will attend a presentation featuring fun ideas for learning about early literacy. During the second part of the program, parents and children will complete an activity together. Participants will receive a free book.
Two evening Pre-K Nights will be held for families, each covering a different topic. Families are invited to attend one or both of the sessions. Please complete the form at the link below to indicate which of the sessions you will be attending.
DATES:
Pre-K Night # 1: May 6, 2026
Topic of Session: Alphabetic Principle and Phonemic Awareness
Pre-K Night #2: May 20, 2026
Topic of Session: Concepts of Print, Vocabulary and Environmental Print
LOCATION:
Durham-Nockamixon School Library
39 Thomas Free Dr, Kintnersville, PA 18930
TIME:
6:00-7:00 PM
SIGN UP ONLINE AT THE LINK BELOW OR USING THE QR CODE:
You can download the flyer in PDF format in English or Spanish using the links below:
PSD SCHOOL BOARD
PSD SCHOOL BOARD
Links to recordings from the most recent Regular Board and Committee Meetings can be found below. Clicking on these links will redirect you to our PSD Stream channel on YouTube. You can find a complete Board and Committee Meeting Schedule on our website.
Disclaimer: Palisades School District is not responsible for statements made by those in attendance at the meeting. Rebroadcasting/reproduction of the audio recording is strictly prohibited unless prior written permission is obtained from the Superintendent or designee.
** COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE UPDATES **
** COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE UPDATES **
Policy Committee Meetings Cancelled: May 6th and June 3rd
New Fiscal Oversight Committee Meeting Scheduled: Wednesday, April 29, 2026, @ 6:30 pm in the PHS Auditorium to discuss the proposed budget
COMMUNITY INFORMATION
COMMUNITY INFORMATION
There is always a lot going on in our community. In this section, you can find out how to get involved this week!
Disclaimer: Flyers and information presented in this section are provided by organizations in the general community. Palisades School District is not responsible for the content or accuracy of any information included in these submissions, and shall not be responsible for any decisions made based on such information.
American Legion Post 399 Memorial Day Service
American Legion Post 399 Memorial Day Service
DATE: Saturday May 23, 2026
TIME: 9:00 AM
LOCATION: Starting at St. John Baptist Church (OLD), Haycock Run cemetery, then proceed to St. Luke's Church, Ferndale cemetery. After St. Luke's, move on to Union cemetery, Ferndale then to Red Hill cemetery, Ottsville.
The Memorial Ceremony will conclude at 11:00 am @ Veteran Memorial Field-Park in Revere (on Marienstein Rd. and Route 611).
In the event of bad weather, a short service will start at 9:00 AM at the (OLD) St. John’s Church and then proceed/conclude at St. Luke's Church on Church Hill Rd. Ferndale at 10:00 AM.
Everyone Welcome!
FREE Dental Clinic 5/29 and 5/30
FREE Dental Clinic 5/29 and 5/30
MOM-n-PA is an annual, two-day free dental clinic for underserved Pennsylvanians in which dental treatment is provided at NO COST to individuals who cannot afford dental care.
Treatment is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. It is expected that hundreds of individuals will be attending this year's event, so please come early! Patients do not pre-register.
All services are provided free of charge by a host of dedicated volunteers.
The 2026 MOM-n-PA will be held at the Agri-Plex at the Allentown Fairgrounds on Friday, May 29 and Saturday, May 30, 2026.
Civic Story Hour With U.S. Supreme Court Justice Neil M. Gorsuch and Janie Nitze on Saturday, May 30th
Civic Story Hour With U.S. Supreme Court Justice Neil M. Gorsuch and Janie Nitze on Saturday, May 30th
Join us for a special family Civic Story Hour featuring U.S. Supreme Court Justice Neil M. Gorsuch, honorary co-chair of the National Constitution Center. Justice Gorsuch and his co-author and former law clerk Janie Nitze return for a conversation and book signing celebrating their new children’s book, Heroes of 1776: The Story of the Declaration of Independence (HarperCollins; May 5, 2026). During the program, they will read selections from the book and join in conversation with Julie Silverbrook, chief content and learning officer at the National Constitution Center.
Designed for families and learners of all ages, this program invites audiences into the human stories behind the Declaration of Independence. Through storytelling and dialogue, the program will explore how individuals across the colonies grappled with the meaning of liberty, independence, and self-government. This Civic Story Hour offers a welcoming space for families to engage with these ideas together, ask questions, and reflect on how the founding principles continue to shape our lives today.
About the Book
Heroes of 1776 introduces readers to both familiar figures such as Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Paul Revere, as well as lesser-known participants in the American story, including Caesar Rodney, Thomas Paine, and Mary Katharine Goddard. Together, their stories highlight the risks, choices, and debates that shaped the nation’s founding. Blending vivid storytelling with historical detail, the book centers the lived experiences behind the founding era and invites young readers to consider the enduring ideals of the Declaration.
DATE: Saturday, May 30
TIME: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm EST
All in-person event attendees must register in advance using their full name and present a valid photo ID at check-in to enter the event.
Hydrangea Extravaganza & Rare Plant Sale
Hydrangea Extravaganza & Rare Plant Sale
Linden Hill Nursery is hosting our first-ever Hydrangea Extravaganza & Rare Plant Sale on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This one-day retail event will feature 70+ cultivars of hydrangeas, including both rare collector selections and reliable landscape favorites.
This is a unique opportunity for gardeners, plant enthusiasts, and landscape professionals to explore a working wholesale nursery and shop a curated selection of plants at peak seasonal interest.
Event Details:
Saturday, June 20, 2026
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Linden Hill Nursery
8230 Easton Rd
Ottsville, PA 18942
Event page address:
https://www.lindenhillnursery.com/hydrangea-extravaganza/
* Gardener’s Guild Members will have access to a preview night prior to the event. Visit the Gardener’s Guild page for details on joining our retail membership program.
Tinicum Arts Festival 2026: Calling All Volunteers!
Tinicum Arts Festival 2026: Calling All Volunteers!
Join us on Saturday and Sunday, July 11 & 12! The Tinicum Arts Festival will return to the shady grounds of Tinicum Park for the 75th time! Share this announcement with friends and family! Pass it along and post on social media.
Gather with friends and neighbors to enjoy the works of over 200 regional artists in the centerpiece Art Barn. Delight in the creations of over 130 craft artisans displayed under the trees. Discover treasures at the White Elephant Tent. Choose from literally thousands of volumes at the Book Wagon, visit the Author’s Table, Discovery Tent or place a bid at the Silent Auction. Enjoy the outstanding live musical entertainment all while savoring a fresh-squeezed lemonade, a tasty sandwich, or an ice cream in the picnic grove. Come and enjoy all the special activities for children and summer fun for everyone.
Our volunteers and families make this event a fun successful community event. Take the time now to sign up HERE!
For more information click on the Tinicum Arts Festival page. The Tinicum Arts Festival is the primary fundraiser for the non-profit Tinicum Civic Association.
The Festival is planned and run entirely by volunteers. Proceeds maintain the 1832 Stover Mill & Gallery in Erwinna, PA and benefit over 30 other non-profit organizations that serve Tinicum Township.
Thank you to the community for supporting the Tinicum Civic Association.
SUMMER CAMPS ARE FILLING FAST! Sign up today before camps are completely full!
SUMMER CAMPS ARE FILLING FAST! Sign up today before camps are completely full!
10 Weeks of FABulous STEAM Camp FUN! A Different Theme Every Week with Some Weeks Offering TWO Camp Options!
Fab Lab Summer Camp is the ultimate destination for curious minds and creative thinkers! Campers dive into hands-on adventures in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM). From robotics to designing 3D creations, coding games, digital fabrication, and more, campers learn cutting-edge skills while having a blast. With expert mentors and state-of-the-art tools, every camper becomes an innovator. Unleash your child's potential and make summer unforgettable!
Who Should Attend Camp: Each camp has a list of who should attend, from children entering 1st to 7th grades. Campers are grouped by age and skill-level to ensure success and fun!
Dates: Summer Camp Preview days will be June 16, 17, and 18. Regular Summer Camp weeks will begin June 22 and run through August 21.
Days/ Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm (week 2 is Mon.-Thu.)
Full Day camp options for 3 or 5 days a week
Mornings only (8am-12pm) option is 5 days a week
Location: Fab Lab Center, One lvybrook Blvd., Suite 190, Warminster PA 18974
For more information, visit the website HERE.
Pre-K Counts Is Now Enrolling for the 26-27 School Year
Pre-K Counts Is Now Enrolling for the 26-27 School Year
Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts (PA PKC) is a state-funded prekindergarten program for 3- and 4- year-old children to help them gain school readiness skills. The goal of PA PKC is to provide a high quality-learning environment for children. The program provides comprehensive services to all enrolled children and their families. By forming a partnership with parents, staff, and the community members, we offer services designed to promote the healthiest, safest environment in which children, families, and staff can thrive and their full potential.
The new applications for Pre-K Counts for next school year are now available. Hard copies will be available in the main offices of each of our elementary school buildings shortly.
You can download the applications in PDF format below:
Pre-K Counts Application 26-27 (English)
Pre-K Counts Application 26-27 (Español)
Any eligible students from within our school district are able to participate. Parents must provide daily transportation. There are currently 13 openings for the program next fall. The Pre-K Counts classroom is located in Durham Nockamixon Elementary.
All completed applications can be sent to Kim Day, Director. Any questions can be directed to her by phone at 267-424-2024 or via email at kday@lq.org.
FreshConnect Bucks County
FreshConnect Bucks County
FreshConnect Bucks County provides FREE, fresh produce to our residents facing hunger. They deliver in the PALMS parking lot on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month from 11:00am to 12:00pm. Registration is required.
You can find the application and additional information here.
Community Food Resource Information
Community Food Resource Information
Our social worker and school counselors have been discussing ways to support families who may be experiencing food insecurity. They have compiled a list of local food resources, which is attached below. We encourage families and community members to review and share this information—sometimes we may not realize who might be in need of a little extra support. Click this link to view the list here.
For those looking to make a monetary donation, the Bucks County Opportunity Council, Inc. is one of the lead anti-poverty organizations in Bucks County. Their website for donations can be found here.
See below for flyers from community organizations. (Click or tap on an image to stop the carousel. Use the arrows to go forward and back at your own pace.)
If you would like to have information covered in the Patch, please send it to patch@palisd.org by Wednesday before its publication on Friday. If you don't currently subscribe to the Patch but would like to receive it via email, please sign up here.
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