New School Year at Penn High: Building Bright Futures and Embracing Change

Photo byWSBT

MISHAWAKA, IN – As Penn-Harris-Madison (PHM) students usher in a new school year, the focus is on “Building Bright Futures,” a theme resonating throughout Penn High School. The campus buzzes with anticipation as students, teachers, and staff embrace the start of another academic journey.

This year marks a notable transition with some new school bus drivers, which might cause a few delays. However, the district is fully staffed and prepared to handle these first-day adjustments. PHM Superintendent Jerry Thacker reassures that despite these minor hiccups, the school's commitment to excellence remains unwavering.

Exciting changes are on the horizon, including the construction of a new field house aimed at accommodating a growing number of student-athletes. This year’s successes are already shining brightly, as two Penn graduates proudly returned with Olympic medals, showcasing the school’s commitment to fostering talent and achievement.

In a bid to enhance focus and academic integrity, Penn High School has introduced a ban on cellphones in classrooms. This policy aligns with the district's high standards and empowers teachers with the discretion to manage technology use in a way that best supports their students. “Our approach remains consistent with past practices, giving teachers the flexibility to determine phone use during breaks and ensuring a productive learning environment,” says Thacker.

With these innovative strides and a strong foundation, Penn High School is set to build on its legacy of success, nurturing future leaders and champions.