Letter: Even in winter, student voices shine across North Penn

Dear North Penn community,

Whereas we are still in the throes of winter, as evidenced by the remaining heaping piles of melting snow in the parking lots of our school buildings, the 2025-26 school year has afforded us all so many opportunities to be warmed by the growth and progress of our students. The best indications of this growth are the school and community sponsored events featuring student voices, and there have been so many this winter!

During our February Action Meeting, the Board welcomed teachers and students from the NPHS World Language Department. We were able to hear students share their insights on the benefits of learning a new language and exploring new cultures. Students studying American Sign Language, Spanish, French, German, Japanese and Latin raised their voices in support of language learning.

As we await the warmth of spring, I highly recommend taking a moment to check out just some of the ways in which we engaged with students this month:

• The annual Black History Oratorical Competition was held on February 26th and we were thrilled to see former School Board Director, Dr. Wanda Lewis-Campbell on hand to serve as one of the event’s 4 judges. The student voice and expression was strong and inspiring.
• District administrators took some time to meet with NPHS students to answer questions about possible school safety updates that could come before the board in the coming months.
• Inglewood Elementary School hosted their annual Mix It Up lunch inviting community members to join students for conversations. Students sat with groups they don’t normally eat lunch with, encouraging them to get to know their peers better. There were fun question prompts at the tables to get the conversation flowing. Several school board members were able to chat with students about their favorite school lunches, snowy activities, and more.
• At North Penn High School this month, the Black Student Union hosted a showcase for high school students. I heard NPHS students describing the event as thought provoking and an event that filled them with pride in watching peers courageously perform short acts - some of which were written and developed by students. Check out what the student journalist covering the event have to say - Excellence and pride “when the street lights come on” – The Knight Crier
• Also at NPHS, the Bengali Cultural Club held their annual showcase full of music, dancing, singing, and, to again cite the incredible student journalists at The Knight Crier, “a mini festival of henna, clothing, trivia games, and incredible food.

Here’s to warmer days and additional opportunities to support, encourage, and celebrate our students.

Juliane Ramić
President, NPSD Board of School Directors

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