March 14th, or 3-14, is known as Pi Day because the mathematical constant π (Pi) is 3.14. Pi is an important number in mathematics, used to calculate the circumference and area of circles. To celebrate this special math-themed day, our 5th-grade classes participated in engaging lessons and enjoyed a well-earned reward.

In the morning, students explored the significance of Pi through hands-on math activities. They practiced using Pi in formulas, discovering how it helps measure circles in real-world applications. Through hands on lessons, students gained a deeper understanding of this essential mathematical concept.

After a morning of hard work, students were treated to a “Pie Party” in the afternoon. With a variety of pies to choose from, students had a fun and delicious way to celebrate their learning.

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Fifth-grade students at Elm Road Elementary transported their audience back in time with a performance of American Revolution: 1763-1789 on Thursday, February 13. Just days before Presidents’ Day, the students took on the roles of historical figures and everyday colonists, bringing the birth of the United States to life through music, drama, and storytelling.

The production highlighted key moments in American history, from the fiery debates of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson to the daring midnight ride of Paul Revere. The audience watched as King George III clashed with the colonists and Betsy Ross stitched the nation’s first flag.

Congratulations to Elm Road’s fifth graders for an outstanding performance that made history come alive!

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Fourth and fifth-grade students from Bittersweet, Elm Road, Mary Frank, Meadow’s Edge, and Northpoint elementary schools recently enjoyed a musical demonstration by the Penn High School Symphonic Orchestra. This event offered the elementary students an exciting glimpse into what musical instruments may be in their future.

The demonstration began with a slow, moving piece before transitioning into a showcase of individual instruments. Penn orchestra members lined up at the front of the stage to perform brief solos. Each instrument’s unique sound and appearance were highlighted, sparking curiosity and excitement among the elementary students.

The event reached its peak when two Penn teachers brought a thrilling touch of cinematic drama to the stage. Dressed as Princess Leia and Darth Vader from Star Wars, the duo engaged in a light saber battle to the delight of the audience. In a dramatic twist, Darth Vader emerged victorious and led the orchestra in a powerful rendition of the iconic “Imperial March.” Adding to the spectacle, the string players adorned their bows with LED lights, transforming them into glowing light sabers as they performed the final number.

The demonstration not only entertained but also served as an introduction to the world of orchestral music, inspiring many young students to consider learning an instrument in the future. The Penn High School Symphonic Orchestra’s performance was a perfect blend of education and entertainment, leaving a lasting impression on its young audience.

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Elm Road Elementary celebrated a significant milestone today—the 90th day of school, marking the halfway point of the academic year. Dubbed “Halfway There Day” in honor of the Bon Jovi classic “Livin’ on a Prayer,” the event featured a special concert by Jason Sapen, a member of the band Blammo.

Jason brought high energy to the celebration, performing hits like “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “Shake it Off,” “Last Christmas,” and more. Students and staff sang along, clapped to the beat, and embraced the festive atmosphere as they celebrated their progress through the school year.

The concert left everyone smiling and energized, providing a fun and meaningful way to recognize this halfway milestone. As the second half of the school year begins, the Elm Road community is ready to keep working hard and making memories.

What a way to mark “Halfway There Day”!

Due to the absence of local, state, or national elections on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, all P-H-M schools will be in session on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.  P-H-M will no longer have a Recess Day on this date.

As a result, the last day of school for students will now be Thursday, June 5, 2025. This is one day earlier than previously scheduled. P-H-M Teachers Association worked collaboratively with the District Administration to make these calendar changes.

Indiana law requires schools to be in session for 180 days each year. If necessary, P-H-M can utilize up to three weather-related eLearning days, as permitted under Indiana law (HB-1093). If additional makeup days are needed, they will be added to the end of the school year, following the new last student day, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Currently, no eLearning days have been called.

The new 2024-2025 school year calendar is posted on the P-H-M website, click here to view the updated calendar.

Elm Road students and staff came together for a joyful sing-a-long assembly to celebrate the holiday season. The event featured a selection of classic Christmas and holiday songs that had everyone singing along with cheer.

Adding a fun twist, the students used kazoos to accompany their singing, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. A special highlight of the event was a performance by the Elm Road Jumpers, the school’s jump rope club, who showcased their impressive skills during one of the songs, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience.

The excitement peaked during the performance of “Frosty the Snowman” when Frosty himself (with a little help from a spirited staff member in costume) made a surprise appearance, dancing and spreading holiday magic.

This festive tradition brought the Elm Road Elementary community together in the spirit of the season, leaving smiles on every face as they headed off for winter break.

Elm Road Elementary is excited to enhance its music program thanks to a grant awarded by the PHM Education Foundation (PHMEF). Jennifer Turnblom, Executive Director of PHMEF, visited the school to present a check for $1,655.84 to music teacher Cynthia Berryman for her “Drumming Up Creativity” project.

The grant will fund the purchase of 12 new “tubano” drums, which are designed to promote bilateral coordination and help students master complex rhythms using both hands. This hands-on approach to music will allow students to become composers, working with partners to create their own pieces. The program will also provide opportunities for students to showcase their compositions through performances within the school community.

This exciting addition to the music program highlights Elm Road Elementary’s commitment to fostering creativity and collaboration through the arts. Congratulations to Cynthia Berryman and Elm Road Elementary, and thank you to PHMEF for making this innovative project possible!

Kindergarten students gathered this morning to celebrate Thanksgiving with a feast! 

The menu featured classic comfort foods, including chicken noodle soup, mashed potatoes, cornbread, and mini pumpkin pies – providing the students with a delightful taste of Thanksgiving.

Adding a personal and creative touch, the students worked on festive decorations in preparation for the event. They crafted adorable turkey centerpieces that adorned the tables, creating a cheerful Thanksgiving atmosphere.

Each child also contributed to the table settings by designing placemats featuring turkeys made from their own handprints, a special keepsake that highlighted their creativity and enthusiasm.

The Thanksgiving Feast not only gave the students a chance to enjoy a delicious meal but also emphasized the importance of community, gratitude, and celebrating traditions together. 

We of course want to thank ALL of the parent volunteers who helped make this possible, Happy Thanksgiving!!!

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Elm Road Elementary School’s first grade students recently combined creativity with technology, bringing a “zoo” of their own to life using Sphero Robots. Inspired by the Potawatomi Zoo, the students designed and created a zoo map featuring habitats for their favorite animals.

The interactive experience didn’t stop there—the first graders then programmed Sphero Robots to navigate through the zoo, maneuvering around habitats, and stopping at each animal exhibit they designed.

This project allowed students to practice essential skills in problem-solving and collaboration, as they programmed their robots to follow paths and even “visit” the animals. Watching their programming in action as the robots moved across the zoo map gave students an exciting hands-on look into the world of robotics and coding!

This morning, students were greeted with a surge of energy and enthusiasm as members of the men’s and women’s volleyball teams from Bethel University participated in “High 5 Fridays.”

As students entered the school, the college athletes lined up to give high fives to everyone that wanted one, starting their day with smiles and excitement.

The positive interaction not only boosted the students’ spirits but also helped build a sense of community and teamwork. Elm Road is thankful for the athletes from Bethel University for taking the time to encourage students and spread positivity to kick off the school day!

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