August 28, 2025

WELCOME BACK!  Our 5 THINGS for the WEEK AHEAD comes out every Thursday too keep you updated throughout the school year:

1. Don't miss the school calendar in your child's backpack! Also, please read the Yellow flyer for crucial back-to-school info. Enjoy your well-deserved 4-day weekend after a great first week (no school August 29 - September 1). Happy Labor Day!  

2. Visit our first-week web portals for FAQs and all you need to know to kick off the school year.

3.Protect your child's Chromebook with our Device Protection Plan - available for $20 (grades 3-12) and $10 (grades K-2) per year.  But hurry - enrollment closes Sept 30, 2025! Otherwise, the Standard Repair Plan (SRP) will apply. Learn more at www.parklandsd.org/dpp.

4. Food Service Accounts: Food Services has transferred payment processors from www.myschoolbucks.com to www.schoolcafe.com/ParklandSD. All balances were transferred to the new system - simply set up your account and you will see your balance. New deposits and payments (with lower transaction fees!) can be made via the www.schoolcafe.com/ParklandSD website, or by sending cash or check (payable to PSD Cafeteria) to the Food Services Office at 2619 Stadium Drive, Orefield, PA 18069.

5. Fall fun - Support the Parkland Education Foundation's innovation grants that are given to staff each year by attending two events:

Football Tailgate: Prime end zone seating under a tent with food during the Northampton game on Sept 5th.

Annual Golf Outing at the Club at Twin Lakes: An annual sell-out event with prizes, food, and great company.

September 4, 2025

THE FALL EDITION of the Parkland Newsletter is here.  Discover information about the new Parkland School District logo/branding launch, a recap of Parkland Elementary School’s Arts and Letters curriculum, student accolades, where the Class of 2025 is headed, an overview of the PHS expansion breaking ground soon, and more!

GIFT CARD BINGO - Join the Parkland Cheerleaders for a Gift Card BINGO event on September 20th in the PHS Cafeteria from 1-4 PM.  Doors open at 11:15 AM.  Secure your tickets for $25 with a pre-order, or purchase them for $30 at the door.  More information and pre-order form.

FOOTBALL - Get ready, Trojans fans! This Friday, our team takes on Northampton for a home football game. Please be aware of the new small bag/clear bag policy and online ticket sales if you're planning to attend. Can't make it? Catch the game livestreamed here by our talented PHS Parkland TV students

PROTECT YOUR CHILD'S CHROMEBOOK WITH OUR DEVICE PROTECTION PLAN - available for $20 (grades 3-12) and $10 (grades K-2) per year.  But hurry - enrollment closes Sept 30, 2025! Otherwise, the Standard Repair Plan (SRP) will apply. Learn more at www.parklandsd.org/dpp.

WANT TO REACH THE PARKLAND COMMUNITY? Partner with us! We offer various advertising opportunities, from our athletic fields to our popular senior citizen dinners,  and many other programs that connect you with our 1,500 staff, 10,000 students, amazing volunteers and our 75-square mile community. 

September 11, 2025

1. Youth Nights - Free Entry for Kids in Jerseys!

Bring your young athletes to an upcoming athletic event! Parkland youth wearing their sports jerseys get in FREE.

• Football & Cheerleading –Thursday, September 11

• Girls Volleyball: Monday, September 15

• Girls Soccer: Tuesday, September 16

• Boys Soccer: Monday, October 6

2. New Student Fair at PHS - Encourage Involvement!

This Friday, September 12th, 2025, all new and 9th grade students will attend the PHS Student Involvement Fair in the main gym. Parents are encouraged to chat with their students about the importance of getting involved in high school activities and encourage them to explore the many options available. Check out the list of clubs and activities offered at PHS here.

3. Parkway Manor Shoe Drive - Support a Great Cause!

Help us keep shoes out of landfills and support micro-entrepreneurs in developing countries as well as the Parkway Manor PTO. Drop off unwanted shoes 24/7 in the marked receptacles in front of Parkway Manor Elementary School (768 Parkway Rd., Allentown).

4. Dine to Donate at PJ Whelihan's for Post Prom!

Mark your calendars for September 18, 2025! Join us at PJ Whelihan's on Walbert for our first dine-to-donate event supporting the Post Prom Party. Make sure to mention Post Prom when ordering for dine-in or takeout. This important event offers a safe, drug-free night for our seniors after prom. We need parent volunteers of all ages to keep this tradition alive! If you'd like to volunteer or sponsor, please email kkyvelos@ptd.net.

5. Last Day to Register for PSAT is Monday, September 15th!

Don't miss out! Monday, September 15th, is the final day to register for the PSAT at Parkland High School. Registrations will not be accepted after this date. Click here for the registration form and additional information.

September 18, 2025

 

Middle School First Dance: This Friday, our middle schoolers will enjoy their first dance at their respective schools from 6-8 PM at OMS and SMS. Tickets will be on sale during lunch on Friday for $5. 

Recreational Programs & Community Events: Explore various recreational programs, including scouts, sports, and arts, on our website. Visit our Recreational Programs and Community Events page for more information. Directions for submitting content to the page are available at the top.

SMS Masked Reader Literacy Event: Springhouse Middle School is hosting a Masked Reader Literacy event on Friday, September 26th, at 6 PM in the SMS Auditorium. Students can try to guess who the middle school staff members are that will be reading behind a mask.  Students earn 5 bonus points for the Accelerated Reading Program Annual Auction for attending.

PHS Fall Play - The Outsiders: Tickets are now on sale for the PHS Fall Play, "The Outsiders," running October 17-19, 2025. This stage adaptation of S.E. Hinton's novel takes place in the 1960’s. Admission is $10 for students and seniors (65+), and $12 for adults. Reserved seat tickets are available at this link.

Parkway Manor Shoe Drive: Support a great cause by dropping off unwanted shoes 24/7 in the marked receptacles in front of Parkway Manor Elementary School through October 31st. This initiative helps keep shoes out of landfills and supports micro-entrepreneurs in developing countries, as well as the Parkway Manor PTO.

September 25, 2025

1. Last chance to purchase device protection plan - The DEADLINE IS SEPTEMBER 30th to Protect your child's Chromebook with our Device Protection Plan - available for $20 (grades 3-12) and $10 (grades K-2) per year.  But hurry - enrollment closes Sept 30, 2025! Otherwise, the Standard Repair Plan (SRP) will apply. Learn more at www.parklandsd.org/dpp.

2. Parent University: AI at Parkland - Learn about the use of Generative AI at Parkland School District. This Parent University event, part of Parkland’s Community Advisory Council on Generative AI, will be held on Thursday, October 16th, at 7 PM in the Administration Center Board Room (1210 Springhouse Rd., Allentown). It will also be livestreamed and recorded. Discover how AI is being integrated into the curriculum in grades 6-12 and what it means for your student. For background information and answers to common questions about Google Gemini for Education, check out this guide for Parents & Guardians.

3. Little Mermaid Jr. & Outsiders Tickets! Get ready for upcoming PHS shows! Tickets for "Outsiders" (October 17-19) are on sale now. For "Little Mermaid Jr." (November 21-23), tickets go on sale October 6. Purchase tickets for both shows at www.cur8.com. Admission is $10 for students and seniors (65+), and $12 for adults.

4. Homecoming Spirit Week & Food Drive (Oct. 6–10) - Join us for "Pack the Stands, Pack the Bus" food drive for Parkland students in need. Each school building will collect specific food items which will be communicated to students and families by the school. Get ready for Spirit Week Dress-Up Days:

• Monday – Hawaiian Day
• Tuesday – Tie Dye Day
• Wednesday – Pink Day (Support the Garter Bowl girls at 6 PM, Homecoming Court announced at halftime)
• Thursday – Disney Day
• Friday – Parkland Pride Day (Homecoming Football Game at 7 PM featuring high school clubs' parade floats at halftime)
• Saturday, Oct. 11 - Homecoming Dance (high school students only)

5. Next Week: Principal Appreciation Month & Custodian Appreciation Day Next week, we kick off National Principal Appreciation Month and Custodian Appreciation Day. Please take a moment to remember to thank our dedicated principals and custodians for their invaluable contributions to our school community. Their hard work and commitment ensure a safe and supportive environment for all.

OCTOBER 2, 2025

Next week is Homecoming week and we have the entire district participating in activities!

1. Homecoming Pack The Stands, Pack The Bus with Food - Each elementary school will collect an item for the elementary snack packs that go home weekly with Parkland students in need.  The items are:
   Cetronia – Oatmeal
   Fogelsville – Nutrigrain Bars
   Ironton – Packaged Ramen
   Jaindl – Chicken Noodle Soup (cans)
   Kratzer – Macaroni & Cheese (cups and boxes)
   Kernsville – Microwave Popcorn
   Parkway Manor – Tuna (cans and pouches)
   Schnecksville – Meal-in-a-Can
   Veterans Memorial – Granola Bars
   The Middle Schools (OMS and SMS) will collect Thanksgiving items to help Parkland REACH staff volunteers deliver full meals to families in need before the November holiday break.  Stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetables, yams/sweet potatoes, gravy, corn bread mix and cranberry sauce will be collected. PHS is collecting all of the items listed above.

2. Homecoming Week = Spirit Week
   Dress up days that will unite our district in Homecoming spirit include the following:
   Monday – Hawaiian Day
   Tuesday – Tie Dye Day
   Wednesday – Pink Day (Support the Garter Bowl - 6 PM at the Football Stadium)
   Cheer on the girls’ flag football games at the stadium. The Homecoming Court will be announced at halftime.
   Thursday – Disney Day
   Friday – Parkland Spirit Wear Day
   • Homecoming Game (7 PM) vs. Allentown Central Catholic: Help us “Pack the Stands” to cheer on the undefeated Trojans. During halftime, enjoy the high school clubs’ creative parade floats.

3. Niche Rankings Are Out
   Check out Parkland’s rank as follows:
   Best School District in the Lehigh Valley (#1) https://www.niche.com/k12/d/parkland-school-district-pa/rankings/
   Best School District for Athletes in PA (#2) https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-sports-school-districts/s/pennsylvania/
   Best Overall School District in PA (#18) https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-school-districts/s/pennsylvania/
   #ParklandPride!

4. Senior Spotlight
   The Parkland Press, an independent weekly newspaper that highlights news within the Parkland community, has launched a new column to feature a senior from the Class of 2026. To be considered for the column, please complete their Google Form, and a representative from the newspaper will contact you.

5. Tickets for Little Mermaid Jr. go on sale on Monday, October 6!
     Get ready for upcoming PHS shows! Tickets for "Outsiders" (October 17-19) are on sale now. For "Little Mermaid Jr." (November 21-23), tickets go on
     sale October 6. Purchase tickets for both shows at www.cur8.com. Admission is $10 for students and seniors (65+), and $12 for adults.

OCTOBER 9, 2025

No School on Monday - Schools will be closed Monday, October 13, 2025, for a Professional Development Day.

​HOMECOMING WEEKEND - Friday is School Spirit/PHS Swag Day.  The football game kicks off at 7 PM vs. Allentown Central Catholic and will include a halftime performance by the PHS Marching Band as well as the annual Homecoming student-built float parade!  

Homecoming Court
King candidates:  Andrew Rivera, Maddox Rampen, Thomas Price, Henry Schairer and Gavin Sachse
Queen candidates:  Mila Hahn, Angie Zaiter, Violet Forte, Ainsley Quay and Ella Rafeld

Saturday: Homecoming Dance in the PHS cafeteria from 7-10 pm, with the crowning of the Homecoming King & Queen occurring at 8:30 PM.

HARLEM WIZARDS ARE COMING!  December 7, 5 PM in the Parkland High School Gym. The Harlem Wizards’ famous basketball show filled with tricks, hoops, and tons of comedy, is coming to the PHS Gym on Sunday, Dec. 7, at 5 PM (Show is 1.5-2 hours).  This is a family-friendly show that is fun and entertaining as the Wizards will play against our Parkland Staff! Tickets start at $15 and just went on sale TODAY at www.harlemwizards.com/tickets/allentown.

UNHAUNTED HOUSE AT PHS  October 23, 6-7:30 PM. Join the PHS National Honor Society students in the Parkland High School Library for a night of kid-friendly fun, including games, crafts, temporary tattoos, and pumpkin decorating.  Open to Parkland students in grades K-3. Cost is $5 per child. Bring a bag for collecting treats! Dressing up in a non-scary costume is encouraged.

PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL'S VIRTUAL FINANCIAL AID NIGHT October 15, 7-8 PM. The presenter is Greg Mitton, Director of Financial Aid and Associate Dean of Admissions at Muhlenberg College. He will discuss the entire financial aid process, including how to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA ®) form, and both need and merit-based aid.  The link for the virtual meeting:
https://muhlenberg.zoom.us/j/93262916790?pwd=VE9YM0tiVzI1cUxIV21Ra0JWYnZYdz09

PARENT UNIVERSITY: AI AT PARKLAND October 16th at 7 PM - Did you see Parkland’s use of AI featured on the front page of The Morning Call on Tuesday?  Learn about the integration of Generative AI within the Parkland School District at our Parent University event. This event, part of Parkland’s Community Advisory Council, will be held on Thursday, October 16th, at 7 PM in the Administration Center Board Room (1210 Springhouse Rd., Allentown). It will also be livestreamed and recorded. Discover how AI is being incorporated into the curriculum for grades 6-12 and its implications for your student. 

OCTOBER 16, 2025

No School on Monday - Schools will be closed Monday, October 20, 2025, in observance of Diwali.

PARENT UNIVERSITY: AI AT PARKLAND October 16th at 7 PM -  Learn about the integration of Generative AI within the Parkland School District at our Parent University event. This event, part of Parkland’s Community Advisory Council, will be held on Thursday, October 16th, at 7 PM in the Administration Center Board Room (1210 Springhouse Rd., Allentown). It will also be livestreamed and recorded at this link. Discover how AI is being incorporated into the curriculum for grades 7-12 and its implications for your student. 

PHS FALL PLAY - THE OUTSIDERS - Opening Friday, shows run through Sunday, October 19th.  Get your tickets and see show times here.

GIVE THANKS AND GIVE BACK - Pre-order your local Jaindl Thanksgiving Turkey for Thanksgiving and support the Parkland Education Foundation.  25% of sales benefit our schools!  Scan the QR code or visit https://www.parklandsd.org/foundation to view turkey choice descriptions and order yours today.  

NOMINATE PARKLAND ALUMNI - Do you know a fantastic Parkland graduate who deserves to be on the Distinguished Alumni Wall of Honor?  Consider nominating them for this prestigious honor.  Nominations are due November 30.  Download the form and get the details here.

SAFE2SAY SOMETHING TRAINING - Parkland School District will conduct the annual Safe2Say Something training for middle and high schoolers in October.  Safe2Say Something is a youth violence prevention program that teaches how to recognize warning signs and signals, especially within social media, from individuals who may be a threat to themselves or others and to “say something” BEFORE it is too late.  Learn more at www.safe2saypa.org and District letter about the training here.

OCTOBER 23, 2025

GRADUATION DATE ANNOUNCED - The Class of 2026 Commencement date has just been approved and will occur on June 3, 2026 at PPL Center at 7 PM. It is time to order the cap and gown.  A cap and gown is required to take part in the graduation ceremony. Bookmark the Class of 2026 webpage where we will share important dates and information so you don’t miss a beat during your student’s senior year.

IGNITE YOUR CAREER! Parkland School District is searching for a driven and dependable School Bus Fleet Mechanic/Garage Mechanic to keep our vital fleet running smoothly. If you're ready to rev up your career and make a real impact, call 610-351-5790 for more information!

 

BIOMEDICAL SYMPOSIUM - Did you know that our high school offers an incredible four-year biomedical curriculum as an elective? Each year, our dedicated teachers host a biomedical symposium, providing students with hands-on medical demonstrations alongside physicians from St. Luke’s University Health Network and other medical vendors. We are currently seeking a generous community donor to provide lunch for the 75 medical volunteers who dedicate their day to teaching our students during the April symposium. If you are interested in supporting this event, please contact mcgallan@parklandsd.net.
 

DO YOU LOVE YOUR CAREER? Come share your passion with our students at the PHS Annual Career Speaker Series designed to promote career awareness, hiring trends and needs, and pathways to our 9th and 10th graders. We invite local professionals to join us on November 24th, 25th, and 26th to share career stories. All presentations are at Parkland High School, 2700 N. Cedar Crest Blvd., Allentown, PA, 18104. Sign up to be a panelist: Parkland H.S. Career Speaker Series-2025.
 

PHS COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM  S.E.R.V.E. - Students at PHS have the opportunity to participate in a community service program. While not required for graduation, some colleges and universities may consider community service for admission. To receive recognition on their transcript, students must complete 30 hours of service between June 1st and May 31st each year. It is recommended that students submit their hours as soon as activities are completed. Students can find all paperwork and information in the Schoology Class Year folder under Community Service-Parkland S.E.R.V.E.. Students may contact teacher advisor Mrs. Buell at buellm@parklandsd.net with any questions from their Parkland Gmail account or send her a message within Schoology.

FALL PLAYOFFS ARE IN FULL SWING - Best of luck to all of the Parkland fall athletes competing in EPC’s and Districts!  Find the complete athletic schedule here.

OCTOBER 30, 2025

HALLOWEEN - Elementary School Parades will be held at 2:15 PM, and Trick or Treat Night will occur from 6-8 PM on Friday, October 31, in all three Parkland townships - North Whitehall, South Whitehall, and Upper Macungie as well as the city of Allentown.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT EVENT - Celebrating the Jaindl Family’s legacy of hard work, innovation, and Parkland Pride! Join the Parkland Education Foundation for a fun and inspiring Alumni Spotlight event featuring a talk with the Jaindl Family — a five-generation story of family, farming, and entrepreneurship that all started right here in Parkland.

Thursday, November 6 from 5 – 6:30 PM at The Club at Twin Lakes

The event is free and includes appetizers and one drink ticket. RSVP Here

 

STUDENT AND FAMILY SUPPORT - Check out our PARKLAND REACH family resources webpage for new information related to Toys for Tots sign-ups, clothing assistance, food pantry information, and other resources.

WINTER SPORTS ADVERTISING - Boost your business visibility! Advertise to thousands of Parkland community members during our winter sports season. Opportunities available for swimming, basketball, or the Harlem Wizards event. Find pricing and more information here and here.

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS - Don't forget to roll your clocks back one hour on Sunday, November 2nd!

Good luck to all Parkland Trojans during the Fall Playoffs! Access the athletic calendar of events here.