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Latest News

  • P-H-M Third Graders Recognized as National Math Stars Nominees
  • Northpoint’s Jen Payne Recognized with P-H-M Teacher Impact Award
  • 2026 Running is Elementary Video and Photo Gallery
  • Northpoint Secretary/Treasurer Named 2026 Employee of the Year
  • Running is Elementary Parent Information
More News

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2026 Running is Elementary Video and Photo Gallery

Spring 2025 ILEARN Assessment Results

Outstanding Achievement

Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation (P-H-M) proudly shares the outstanding performance of its students on the Spring 2025 ILEARN assessment, as released by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE). P-H-M students outperformed the state average by an impressive 20 percentage points in the percentage of students passing both English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics. This achievement places P-H-M in the top 4% of public school corporations across Indiana (see the charts below).

“These results reflect the exceptional work of our teachers, students, and staff. We remain deeply committed to ensuring every child reaches their full potential, and this data shows that our efforts are paying off.”

Superintendent Dr. Heather Short

District-Wide Achievements

  • P-H-M has maintained its Top 4% ranking for a second consecutive year, a testament to the district’s commitment to academic excellence and the strategies that drive student success
  • Northpoint and Prairie Vista Elementary Schools are in the Top 10; Discovery Middle School is #3 in the state
  • P-H-M 8th grade Math performance is up 24% since the 2021 benchmark year, with a 28% variance over the state average
  • Among Indiana’s largest public school districts testing close to 5,000 students, P-H-M ranks #1 in the state for the percentage of Free and Reduced Lunch (F/R) students passing both ELA and Math
  • Penn High School moved up from #27 last year to #15 this year in SAT pass percentage among public high schools

“These achievements are not by accident. They are the result of intentional investments in teacher professional development and the implementation of evidence-based instructional practices. We are fortunate to have educators and staff who are deeply committed to supporting every learner.”

Dr. Heather Short

Indiana junior high school students are now required to take the SAT for graduation. The IDOE also released SAT results. Results from the Spring 2025 IREAD assessment are expected to be released in early fall, and P-H-M looks forward to sharing those outcomes as well.

Assessment Data by Grade Level

ILEARN Math Results
Metric Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8
PHM 71% 65% 65% 52% 57% 63%
State 52% 50% 42% 40% 36% 35%
Variance +19% +15% +23% +12% +21% +28%
ILEARN ELA Results
Metric Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8
PHM 60% 55% 64% 57% 56% 64%
State 41% 42% 41% 41% 38% 43%
Variance +19% +13% +23% +16% +18% +21%

Northpoint Secretary/Treasurer Named 2026 Employee of the Year

Carly Taylor thought she was heading to the Northpoint Elementary School library to help Principal Lorraine White with an issue. Instead, she walked into a room filled with second graders, colleagues, and cameras, all there to surprise her with the news that she had been named Penn-Harris-Madison’s 2026 Employee of the Year.

Principal Lorraine White surprises Carly Taylor when she walks into the Northpoint school library

The celebration, organized by Principal White, included Superintendent Dr. Heather Short, district administrators, and members of the Central Office Business Department. Students added to the excitement by joyfully shouting “SURPRISE!” as Taylor entered the library. Click to watch the video below.

Following the announcement, Taylor, known for her humility, was met with an outpouring of appreciation. Principal White shared the news over the school’s PA system, prompting students and staff throughout the building to stop and congratulate her. The celebration continued with a “Brag Walk” through the school, with Taylor wearing Northpoint’s “MVP Brag Tag.” Click to see a full photo gallery in Canto.

Carly Taylor wins P-H-M 2026 Employee of the Year
Principal Lorraine White gives Miss Taylor the MVP chain necklace for the brag walk
Carly Taylor wins P-H-M 2026 Employee of the Year
Carly Taylor wins P-H-M 2026 Employee of the Year
Carly Taylor wins P-H-M 2026 Employee of the Year

Taylor began her career with P-H-M in August 2019 as a teacher’s aide. After a brief time away, she returned to Northpoint in September 2021 and now serves as the school’s Secretary/Treasurer. She says one of the most meaningful parts of her role is the opportunity to support others.

“I am proud to be part of such an incredible team,” Taylor said. “I appreciate being able to witness the heart and commitment our school pours into the care, support, and growth of our students and families.”

Carly Taylor with Northpoint Principal Lorraine White and other staff memberAffectionately known as the “heart and brains” of the building, Taylor was nominated by third grade teacher Molly O’Rear.

“She manages countless responsibilities with remarkable efficiency and grace,” O’Rear said. “She is the calm, steady presence our staff relies on and someone who truly goes above and beyond every single day.”

Taylor’s impact extends far beyond traditional office responsibilities. She coordinates substitute coverage, manages purchasing during high-demand times such as testing season, and supports staff in ways that often go unseen. She also plays a key role in organizing and supporting more than a dozen afterschool programs, ensuring schedules, communication, and logistics run smoothly for students and families.

Her work has supported major initiatives at Northpoint, including the school earning its STEM certification. Taylor helped organize scheduling, purchasing, and materials for the STEM lab, while also supporting implementation alongside school leadership. She has also been instrumental in coordinating Northpoint’s growing involvement in LEGO competitions, managing logistics for multiple teams, coaches, and students.

PHM Central Office Business Department members Her professionalism and attention to detail have earned her respect not only at Northpoint, but across the district. Through her work managing school finances and operations, Taylor collaborates closely with the Business Department and has provided valuable feedback to support the implementation of a new financial purchasing program. She is also a trusted resource for colleagues across multiple schools and frequently assists fellow secretaries and treasurers.

“Carly exemplifies what it means to lead from where you are,” said Superintendent Dr. Heather Short. “Her attention to detail, her willingness to support others, and her commitment to excellence make a meaningful difference across our district, helping ensure our schools run smoothly so our teachers can focus on student learning.”

Beyond her operational leadership, Taylor has made a lasting impact on school culture. This year, she introduced a staff “shout out” initiative, encouraging employees to recognize one another through handwritten notes.

Just as important as her behind-the-scenes work is the way she connects with people. Taylor is often the first face families see when they walk through Northpoint’s doors, setting a welcoming tone for the entire building.

Bulletin Board that Carly created

Dr. Short and Carly Taylor

“Carly is the first warm smile families see when they walk through our doors and the calm, steady presence our staff depends on every day,” said Principal White. “She anticipates needs before they arise, solves problems with professionalism, and treats every student, parent, and colleague with genuine kindness and respect. Her dedication and integrity make her incredibly deserving of this honor.”

Taylor is also a proud P-H-M parent, with a student at Discovery Middle School.

Each spring, P-H-M honors a Secondary Teacher of the Year, Elementary Teacher of the Year, and an Employee of the Year.

Penn High School Spanish Teacher Kelley Watts was named the district’s 2026 Secondary Teacher of the Year on Thursday April 30, 2026.  

Fourth grade teacher Josie Engdahl was named Elementary Teacher of the Year earlier in the day on Friday, May 1. 

All three honorees will be formally recognized at P-H-M’s annual Employee Recognition & Retiree Dinner on Wednesday, May 20. The Teachers of the Year will go on to compete for Indiana Teacher of the Year, which will be announced in Fall 2026 by the Indiana Department of Education. The P-H-M Education Foundation awards each Teacher of the Year a $1,000 grant and gift card to the Employee of the Year.

Running is Elementary Parent Information

2026 Running is Elementary will be held Monday, May 4 (Rain Date Wednesday, May 6) at Elm Road Elementary School, 59400 Elm Rd, Mishawaka.

Timeline of Events:

  • 2:50 p.m. – Introductions
  • 3:00 p.m. – 5th gr. Girls Race
  • 3:20 p.m. – 5th gr. Boys Race
  • 3:40 p.m. – 4th gr. Girls Race
  • 4:00 p.m. – 4th gr. Boys Race

Parking Information:

  • Elm Road will be filled first before using Grissom Middle School, 13881 Kern Rd., Mishawaka
  • Family/Spectator parking at the bottom of Elm Road School as space allows. This area will be primarily be for principals, coaches, and volunteers

ALL Runners need to be picked up no later than 4:30 at Elm Road. Runners may leave following completion of their grade’s run by checking out with the coach. 

RAIN DATE: Principals will be notified by Noon on Monday and information will be posted on elementary schools’ website along with P-H-M & Education Foundation website PHMEF.org 

Teacher Job Fair on March 26

We’re Accepting Applications for the
2026-27 School Year

Teacher Job Fair

Thursday, March 26, 2026

2:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Penn High School Fieldhouse
12641 McKinley Highway, Mishawaka

Teachers Click Here

Click to learn more about P-H-M and why you should join our family.

 

Non-resident Application Window Opens March 2, 2026

Penn-Harris-Madison is pleased to be able to offer enrollment to non-resident students on a limited basis for the 2026-27 school year.

Families living in neighboring school districts interested in having their elementary children attend a P-H-M elementary school can apply for that opportunity.

calendar iconThe window to apply for available non-resident seats will open Monday, March 2, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. and close on Friday, March 20, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. 

On March 2 at 8:30 a.m., P-H-M will post the schools, grades and number of seats available for the upcoming school year. Families must complete an online application between March 2 – 20.

The NRS application will be posted on www.phmschools.org/non-resident-student-enrollment/ on Monday, March 2, 2026 at 8:30 a.m.

There is no first-come, first-served advantage. 

 

 

Penn hosts Robotics Tournament March 7-8

📍 Penn High School | 🗓 March 7–8, 2026
🎟 Admission: Free

Penn High School will host a FIRST Indiana Robotics District Competition on Saturday, March 7, and Sunday, March 8, 2026. The competition will take place in the Main Arena and feature more than 40 teams from across Indiana.

Click here to see a photo gallery of last year’s competition.


📅 Event Schedule

Saturday, March 7

  • 10:30 a.m. – Opening Ceremonies

  • All Day – Qualification Matches

  • @7:00 p.m. – Competition concludes

Sunday, March 8

  • 9:30 a.m. – Opening Ceremonies

  • 2:00–5:00 p.m. – Playoff Matches & Awards


🤖 About the Competition

  • Theme: FIRST AGE (Archaeology)

  • Game: REBUILT

  • This event serves as a qualifier for the FIRST Indiana Robotics Championship
    (April 17–19 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds)

  • Top teams may advance to the FIRST Robotics World Championships

👉 Click here for more information on the REBUILT game


🚗 Parking & Entry

  • Parking: Penn High School parking lots: Main, Softball, Soccer; and across the street at Schmucker Middle School

  • Spectator Entrance: Door D (northwest corner of the school)


🍔 Food & Amenities

  • Food trucks available both days

  • Spectator-friendly event for all ages


Come cheer on Indiana’s best student engineers and experience innovation, teamwork, and problem-solving in action!

2026 Young Authors’ Conference, Books & Bots

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Friday, February 13

Click to register:

bit.ly/BooksandBots2026

 

PHM Education Foundation Books and BotsSaturday, March 7, 2026   

9:15 a.m. – 11:25 a.m. 

Penn High School

for P-H-M students K – 5th grade

FREE! There is no cost for this event, but registration is required and limited.

Click here to register online today!

OPTIONAL T-SHIRT PURCHASE: If you would like to order a t-shirt, CLICK HERE to be taken to Time for Tees website to place your order. Please note, this is an OPTION and not required. 

Sponsored by the P-H-M Education Foundation, Young Authors’ Conference is an opportunity for P-H-M students in Kindergarten – 5th grade to meet and hear from well-known children’s author and speaker Jill Esbaum, participate in a variety of robotic explorations and engage in a dinosaur exploration activity. This is a FREE event thanks to the Foundation!

Jill Esbaum is the award-winning author of more than 65 children’s books, both fiction and nonfiction. A few recent titles include It’s Corn Picking Time!, Polecat Has a Superpower, and Bird Girl – How Gene Stratton Porter Shares Her Love of Nature with the World. Back in 2012 National Geographic Kids asked Jill to write a book featuring the Angry Birds and dinosaurs titled Angry Birds Playground: Dinosaurs, which gave her Dino Fever. Her dinosaur books since then include If a T. Rex Crashes Your Birthday Party, How to Grow a Dinosaur, and a three-book graphic early reader series, Thunder & Cluck. Jill lives on a family farm near Davenport. 

2026 Young Authors’ Conference, Books & Bots 2026 Young Authors’ Conference, Books & Bots

As part of the morning activities, students will participate in three rotations: one session with author Jill Esbaum, one dinosaur exploration session thanks to the Indiana Dinosaur Museum, and one session where students will enjoy the hands-on exploration of technology with Sphero Bots, Dot and Dosh, Bee Bots, Ozobots and more! Our amazing P-H-M teachers and volunteers will guide students and their parents through the interactive session guiding them on how develop a character and create their own puppet.

2026 Young Authors’ Conference, Books & Bots 2026 Young Authors’ Conference, Books & Bots 2026 Young Authors’ Conference, Books & Bots

At least one parent or guardian must accompany the student(s)!  If more than one child is registering for Books and Bots, the family will stay together so only one adult is needed. Siblings YOUNGER than kindergarten may not accompany adults. This experience is for your young author(s) and the parent/guardian.

CONFIRMATION: Participating students will receive additional information prior to the conference through their home school at the end of February.

COST: Free!

QUESTIONS: If you have any questions, please contact Candace Cussen at ccussen@phm.k12.in.us.

Click here to register online today!

Northpoint Cereal Box Drive Collects more than 1,500 Boxes for Clay Church Food Pantry

Girl poses for photo holding many cereal boxes.Northpoint families came together in a big way for this year’s cereal box donation drive, contributing 1,547 boxes of cereal to support the Clay Church Food Pantry. The donation will help provide local families with essential breakfast items for several months.

The school also continued its beloved tradition of lining the cereal boxes through the hallways like dominos. The whole school gathered to watch the chain reaction as hundreds of boxes toppled from one end to the other, creating a fun and memorable celebration of the school’s service project. Check out the video recap below:

Student leaders capped off the event by staying after school to help load every box of cereal onto the truck, ensuring the donations made their way safely to Clay Church Food Pantry. Student leadership group poses with cereal boxes.

Click here to take a look at the photo gallery from this fun, impactful event. #PHMExcellence

P-H-M Board of School Trustees Appoints Jen Smoker to Fill Penn Township Seat

The Penn-Harris-Madison Board of School Trustees voted unanimously this morning to appoint Mrs. Jennifer (Jen) Smoker to fill the Penn Township Seat #1 vacancy created by the resignation of Matthew Chaffee in early October. 

Jen Smoker awarding Grissom Scholarship to an 8th grade student (2023)
Jen Smoker awarding Grissom Scholarship to an 8th grade student (2023)

A long-time resident and active community volunteer, Mrs. Smoker is a dedicated P-H-M parent of four children attending district schools. Her service and advocacy for students and staff have been felt across the district and throughout the greater community.

Mrs. Smoker currently serves on the P-H-M Education Foundation (PHMEF) Board of Directors, where she has chaired the Grants Committee since 2019. In that role, she helps oversee the process of awarding teacher and school grants that enhance learning, spark innovation, and promote excellence in all 15 P-H-M schools. She also supports PHMEF’s fundraising events and community partnerships that benefit students across the district.

Beyond her PHMEF service, Mrs. Smoker is deeply involved in several community organizations. She serves on the Board of Directors for Granger Community Church, where she helps guide strategic planning and budget oversight; chairs the Grissom Middle School PTO Scholarship Committee, which awards scholarships to Penn High School seniors; and previously served as Board Secretary for Jr. Irish Soccer Club and Development Chair for Girls on the Run Michiana. Through these roles, she has combined her love of youth development, leadership, and service—supporting programs that build character, confidence, and connection.

Professionally, Mrs. Smoker brings two decades of business leadership and creative experience. A graduate of Miami University’s Farmer School of Business, she began her career as an Account Executive for major advertising firms in Detroit and Chicago, managing national brands such as Lincoln/Mercury and Quaker Oats. In 2003, she founded and operated CardCare.com, an online greeting card company she successfully led for 20 years.

“Mrs. Smoker’s commitment to servant leadership and her deep connection to our schools make her an outstanding addition to the Board,” said Board President Christopher Riley. “She has demonstrated her heart for P-H-M through years of volunteerism and community involvement and will bring a strong parent perspective to the table.”

PHMEF Grant Award
PHMEF Grants Committee Chair Jen Smoker (2nd from right) seen here awarding Grissom Middle School with a PHMEF grant award in 2023

Superintendent Dr. Heather Short added, “Jen’s energy, insight, and collaborative leadership reflect the very best of P-H-M’s Triangle of Success—students, teachers, and parents working together. Her service to our schools and community exemplifies P-H-M Excellence.”

Arrangements will be made with the P-H-M Board Attorney for Mrs. Smoker to take her Oath of Office. She will serve through the remainder of the current term, which expires in 2026. She may choose to run for election to the ensuing four-year term in the November 2026 general election.

Mrs. Smoker was chosen from five applicants. The other four candidates were John “Todd” Douthit, Brandon M. Kastner, William “Matt” Ludwig, and Ryan C. Woodruff (click here for their resumes). Public interviews of these applicants took place during a special board meeting held Tuesday, October 28th. President Riley said the decision to fill the vacancy was a difficult one, as all five candidates would have been excellent choices.

Click here for the process the Board of School Trustees followed for filling the vacancies.

2025 Community Connections Fair

P-H-M’s ENL Department is hosting their annual Community Connections Fair on Saturday, November 1st.

Join us for activities, arts & crafts, food, performances, and to learn about resources in our community. It is completely FREE and all P-H-M families are invited to attend. Click here to see photos on Facebook of past Fairs.

2025 Community Connections Fair

For any families that want to sign up to perform, please click here to fill out the Google form.

 
We can’t wait to see you there!
P-H-M Schools
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