Friday, April 24, 2026
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May is Teacher Appreciation Month and we would like to take a moment to recognize the dedication, passion, and care our faculty brings to classrooms every, single day. Because of you, students feel safe, supported, engaged, and inspired. Your commitment goes far beyond lesson plans and grading, and your impact goes far beyond the classroom.
This month, we celebrate YOU: your energy, your patience, your humor, and all the little things you do that make a BIG difference every day.
To our Extraordinary Elementary Educators, Middle School Marvels, and High School Heroes: THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
Settle in and 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, Dawn Smigo, 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.
Comprehensive Plan 2026-2029 Easy Reference Materials Are Now Available
Comprehensive Plan 2026-2029 Easy Reference Materials Are Now Available
The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) requires each school district, every three years, to conduct a process to create a Comprehensive Plan. In Palisades, this plan becomes the structure for the development of goals and areas of focus for the Superintendent and the administration. Together, with staff, parents, community members, and other stakeholders, the Palisades School District completed the process in February, 2026.
We welcome you to review the following materials:
An Easy Reference Guide for the Comprehensive Plan 2026-2029 can be found online HERE.
You can download the Easy Reference Guide HERE. (PDF)
Here is a single-page infographic summarizing the key components of Comprehensive Plan 2026-2029. (PDF)
Here is the presentation that summarizes the work of the Steering Committee and the Action Planning Subcommittees, where the work occurred to develop a robust plan for the next three years (2026-2029). (PDF)
Complete documentation and information about the Comprehensive Planning Porcess can be found on our website HERE.
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.
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!
Additionally, should you have the time and interest, here is a link to a signup genius, as there is a request for volunteers to help throughout the day of the event for small shifts: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094AABA623ABFECF8-63388357-upper#/
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.
Tinicum Adds a Little More Joy to Recess!
Tinicum Adds a Little More Joy to Recess!
Tinicum Elementary unveiled a brand-new playground slide this week!
The project was made possible thanks to Grade 3 teacher Mr. Justin Fachet, whose Citadel Heart of Learning Award last year brought $5,000 to the school. Additional support from the Palisades Community Foundation helped bring the project to life.
The slide was generously installed by Mr. Andrew Scott of Zaveta Custom Homes — and proud father of two Tinicum students. Mrs. Schlosser presented Mr. Scott and his company with a Community Partnership Award, and Mr. Scott with a special award to express our gratitude for his personal efforts on the project.
Surrounded by students, faculty, staff, and the Scott family, Mr. Fachet had the honor of taking the very first ride down the slide.
Kings and Queens for a Day!
Kings and Queens for a Day!
Durham Nockamixon Elementary students celebrated the end of their unit about "Monarchs" in royal style this week!
Dressed as kings and queens, they marked the occasion with a festive tea party fit for royalty.
Learning is fun AND fancy!
Durham Nox Collecting Donations for The Lord's Pantry
Durham Nox Collecting Donations for The Lord's Pantry
Durham Nockamixon Elementary is collecting much-needed items for The Lord's Pantry from Monday, April 20th to Wednesday, April 29th.
They are especially in need of:
Canned chicken
Chef Boyardee
Cream of mushroom soup
Soups
Coffee & Tea
Sugar & creamers
Jelly & condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo, relish, etc.)
Bathroom toiletries (such as shampoo, soap, and shaving cream)
Gift cards and any items that can help are welcome.
Please bring donations to the Durham Nockamixon Elementary foyer.
THANK YOU for helping our community!
Rho Kappa Jr. Honor Society @ PALMS
Rho Kappa Jr. Honor Society @ PALMS
Our PALMS Rho Kappa Jr. Honor Society students attended a field trip to the Zoellner Arts Center at Lehigh University, where they enjoyed a comedic performance about the American Revolution.
The show offered a fun and engaging way to experience history, and students also participated in a Q&A session, gaining insight into both the content and the art of theater.
CONGRATULATIONS to 'Our Educators with Real Impact' Award Nominee!
CONGRATULATIONS to 'Our Educators with Real Impact' Award Nominee!
JACLYN WILLIAMS (SCHOOL COUNSELOR, DURHAM NOCKAMIXON ELEMENTARY)
Kirsten Godiksen has nominated Jaclyn Williams for this recognition! Here is what she had to say about the impact she’s made:
"Jaclyn is extremely dedicated to her job and is an amazing team player. She supports on almost every school committee, runs small groups, jumps in to support students as needs come up and is an amazing collaborator."
AMBER SCHLOSSER (PRINCIPAL, TINICUM ELEMENTARY)
Nicole Hall has nominated Amber Schlosser for this recognition! Here is what they had to say about the impact she’s made:
"I met Amber as my high school English teacher when she started her career at Palisades. As a teacher, her dedication to who I was as a student and as a person has stayed with me long after graduation. She now is the Principal for my daughter’s school and all these years later, she remains one of the most genuine, caring and devoted educators in our district. She sees the strengths of each child and is intentional to let every student know that she cares for them and that she believes in them. She fosters a trusting community where parents feel heard and valued. We are lucky to have her in our world!"
You are AMAZING and we are grateful for all that you do for our students and our community every day!
Is there an educator who has made an impact in your life? Tell us about the Educators with Real Impact you know here: https://bit.ly/4tkunTH
All submissions will be entered into our spring prize drawing and may be featured on the College of Education (COE) social media.
PSD Spring Sports!
PSD Spring Sports!
Are you ready for Baseball, Softball, Tennis, Flag Football, and Track & Field?! Our spring season starts in a couple of weeks. Come on out and cheer for our Pirates!
An important message from our Athletic Director:
Home TRACK & FIELD meet season is here and we need your help! Hosting a successful meet takes a team effort, and we’re looking for workers to help with timing, field events, check-in, and recording scores.
No experience is needed — we’ll show you exactly what to do. It’s a great way to support our athletes, make a few bucks and be part of the action! If you would like to help out, please contact Brian Gilbert at bgilbert@palisadessd.org
Upcoming Home Track & Field meet dates:
4/28
You can find a complete calendar of upcoming 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: 9AM 12 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 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.
Whitsons Family of Companies Customer Survey
Whitsons Family of Companies Customer Survey
Tell us what you think of our school nutrition program! Please take a quick survey and let us know what you think. It is the goal of our Foodservice Management Company, Whitsons Culinary Group, to Enhance Life One Meal At A Time,™ and they value your opinion and strive to make continuous improvements to better serve the school community.
This survey will close on April 24th. Simply follow the web link below:
Survey of Parents of Students with Disabilities (PA Department of Education)
Survey of Parents of Students with Disabilities (PA Department of Education)
Pennsylvania’s State Performance Plan requirements under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004 include collecting and reporting data on the involvement of families in special education programs. Specifically, states must report annually to the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) and the public on State Performance Plan Indicator 8, which is the “percent of parents with a child receiving special education services who report that schools facilitated parent involvement as a means of improving services and results for children with disabilities.”
Like many other states, Pennsylvania is collecting this data through a large-scale survey. Pennsylvania reports results of the survey to OSEP in its State Performance Plan/Annual Performance Report. This report is posted on the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) and the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN) websites. Reporting on local educational agency (LEA) performance is done through the Special Education Data Reports on the PennData website.
A representative sample of parents from the LEAs listed will receive a postcard with instructions for completing the anonymous and confidential survey. Parents may direct questions about the survey to the Special Education Consult Line at 800-879-2301.
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.
Link To: Regular Board Meeting 4/15/26
Link To: Policy Committee Meeting 4/15/26
Link To: Fiscal Committee Meeting 4/13/26
Link To: Education Programs & Services 4/8/26
** 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.
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.
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!
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.
Civic Story Hour With U.S. Supreme Court Justice Neil M. Gorsuch and Janie Nitze
Civic Story Hour With U.S. Supreme Court Justice Neil M. Gorsuch and Janie Nitze
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.
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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