Friday, May 15, 2026
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It’s a big weekend in Palisades and we hope you’re as excited as we are! Today brings Prom and the ribbon cutting for the Ed Ruisz Sports Performance Center, followed tomorrow by the annual Palisades Community Foundation 5K Challenge & 1-Mile Family Walk and the Upper Bucks 250 Heritage Day at Tinicum Park.
With a gorgeous forecast ahead, it’s the perfect time to get out, celebrate, connect, and enjoy a truly special weekend in our community.
Enjoy this Patch-perfect edition filled with plenty of Pirate pride.
Following is a handful of photo highlights from recent events and activities. THANK YOU to our PTA/PTOs, Dawn Smigo, Kim Casterline, 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.
Please Join Us for the Ribbon Cutting of "The Ed Ruisz Sports Performance Center" on Friday, May 15th at 4:00 PM at Palisades High School
Please Join Us for the Ribbon Cutting of "The Ed Ruisz Sports Performance Center" on Friday, May 15th at 4:00 PM at Palisades High School
Palisades High School is proud to announce the official ribbon-cutting ceremony of the “Ed Ruisz Sports Performance Center,” a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the memory and legacy of longtime teacher, coach and leader of athletic performance, Ed Ruisz, who passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025 at the age of 70.
Event Highlights:
Keynote Tributes
Ceremonial Ribbon Cutting
The unveiling of a commemorative plaque and cabinet detailing Ed Ruisz’s career.
The event is open to the public, and alumni are especially encouraged to attend to honor their former mentor. Refreshments and a guided tour of the new facility will follow the ceremony.
Date: Friday, May 15th
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: Palisades High School, 35 Church Hill Drive, Kintnersville, PA 18930.
Palisades Community Foundation 5K Challenge and 1-Mile Family Walk is Saturday, May 16th!
Palisades Community Foundation 5K Challenge and 1-Mile Family Walk is Saturday, May 16th!
PCF 5K Challenge
Price:
Individual $30 day of race OR $25 by 5/3/24
Family $55 day of race OR $50 by 5/3/24
Time: Race time @ 9:00 AM; Registration begins at 7:30 AM.
1-Mile Family Walk
Price:
Individual $20 day of race OR $15 by 5/3/24
Family $35 day of race OR $30 by 5/3/24
Time: Race time @ 9:05 AM; Registration begins at 7:30 AM.
Location:
Palisades High School, Walter T. Rohrer Stadium
35 Church Hill Road; Kintnersville, PA 18930
Complete information and registration can be found online HERE: https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Kintnersville/PalisadesCommunityFoundation5KChallenge
The Palisades Community Foundation is committed to Arts, Education and Wellness. We are partnered with the Palisades School District and community to serve and support programs and projects.
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.
Springfield Serves Up An Egg-cellent Breakfast to Honor Teachers
Springfield Serves Up An Egg-cellent Breakfast to Honor Teachers
Springfield Principal Scott Davis, Secretary Gina Adams, and their outstanding food service crew served all Springfield Staff made-to-order omelettes and other goodies to wrap up Teacher Appreciation Week last Friday!
Attention All 5th Grade Parents!: Preparing for the Transition to Middle School
Attention All 5th Grade Parents!: Preparing for the Transition to Middle School
You are invited to join us for an informative and engaging evening dedicated to preparing your child for the exciting transition to middle school. At PALMS, we are committed to making the move from elementary school to middle school a positive and successful experience for both students and families.
What You Will Learn
Academic Programs & Curriculum
Learn about our middle school curriculum and academic expectations.
Explore opportunities for student growth and achievement.
Discover the variety of courses and enrichment opportunities available.
Activities & Student Involvement
Learn about extracurricular activities, clubs, athletics, and student organizations.
Discover ways students can get involved and connected at PALMS.
Meet Our Staff
Meet our dedicated teachers, counselors, and administrators.
Learn how our staff supports students academically, socially, and emotionally.
Supporting the Transition
Discover how PALMS helps students navigate the transition to middle school.
Learn about supports designed to promote student confidence, independence, and success.
Parent Questions & Community Connections
Have the opportunity to ask questions
Connect with other parents and families in our school community.
Date: Thursday, May 28, 2026
Time: 5:00-6:00 PM
Location: PALMS Library
We look forward to meeting you!
Dr. Karl R. Scheibenhofer, Principal of PALMS
PIEROGIES ARE BACK!
PIEROGIES ARE BACK!
Craving an easy dinner? Love a good fundraiser? We’ve got you covered. From May 8–21, order delicious pierogies and help support PALMS TREK and future student travel adventures.
Pick up your order Thursday, June 4th from 2:30–4:00 PM.
*** IMPORTANT ***
When you order: Select Palisades Middle School as your Fundraiser/Pickup Location. Tell us which Trekker "referred" you and they will earn the proceeds from your order!
Whether you love classic potato & cheese or want to try something new, every order helps our trekkers explore new places and create unforgettable experiences. Thank you for supporting TREK—one pierogi at a time!
🥟 ORDER HERE 🥟
Decision Day: Congratulations to the PHS Class of 2026!
Decision Day: Congratulations to the PHS Class of 2026!
Last week, we celebrated our seniors on Decision Day as they shared their exciting plans for the future.
Help us continue to recognize and celebrate the Class of 2026 as they begin their next chapters: entering the workforce, continuing their education, and serving our country through the military.
Enjoy the Decision Day 2026 video HERE.
Track & Field Colonial League Championships
Track & Field Colonial League Championships
Palisades Boys and Girls Track and Field teams competed at Whitehall High School in the Colonial League Championships. The meet was an intense competition with a number of state honor roll performances.
Below are the Palisades medal winners from the Colonial League Championships.
100 meters: Lincoln Cook- 11.03, 3rd place
200 meters: Lincoln Cook- 22.26, 3rd place
4 x 1 relay: (Silas Day, Ashton Fitzgerald, Greyson George, Lincoln Cook)- 42.57, 2nd place and a new school record
Shot Put: Silas Day- 50' 1.25", 2nd place
Discus: Silas Day- 150'10", 3rd place
Pole Vault: Wyatt Summerer- 12'6", 3rd place; Dylan Ferrari- 12'6"; 4th place
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 PHS High School Baseball Program Summer Camp is back!
The PHS High School Baseball Program Summer Camp is back!
Head Coach Gary Koenig, his staff and the Varsity Baseball Players will lead the three-
day Camp. Camp is open to those in K-6th grade, whether you live in the Palisades School District or elsewhere.
Information you need to know:
Dates: July 11-13 Times: 8:30 am until 11:30 am
Location: Palisades Middle School (Palms) Cost: $100.00 per camper
What to bring: Hats, Gloves, Bats, Helmets, Towel, Water Bottle, Sunscreen, Cleats
All proceeds from the camp go directly to the Palisades High School Baseball Booster, which supports both the High School and Jr. High Baseball Programs.
If you have any questions, contact Coach Alkhas at ralkhas@palisadessd.org.
To sign up, complete the form using the QR code or online HERE.
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
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.
Summer Reading Assignments for Grades 9-12
Summer Reading Assignments for Grades 9-12
All students, grades 9-12, will be required to complete summer reading assignments. Assessment of the required reading texts for all students in English courses will occur during the second week of the school year, regardless of the semester in which the student is enrolled in the associated course.
For the social studies courses, students will need to complete a written assignment and bring a print copy to school with them during the first week of school and share it with their classroom teacher. Grade 12 students, be advised that you will need to complete the summer reading social studies packet if you are enrolled in Cultural Diversity or the Government course (even if you are also in an AP course).
Please be reminded that these assignments must be completed before school starts on August 30, 2026.
We have created a site with more information on and access to each assignment, along with answers to Frequently Asked Questions and special needs.
You can find complete information online at the high school library homepage HERE: http://tinyurl.com/ydxxe2fk
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.
Link To: Regular Board Meeting 5/6/26
Link To: Fiscal Committee Meeting 4/29/26
** COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE UPDATES **
** COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE UPDATES **
Policy Committee Meetings Cancelled: May 6th and June 3rd
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.
FREE Qi Gong Class 5/18/26!
FREE Qi Gong Class 5/18/26!
Qi Gong is considered one of the most popular, rapidly growing, and widely practiced forms of exercise in the world. Come and try this class.
FREE CLASS Monday, May 18, 2026
Palisades Middle School Cafeteria
6:00 - 7:00 PM
Instructor: Diane Alex
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.
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.
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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