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Latest News

  • Northpoint Students Top Finishers in MathCON
  • 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
More News

Home » Promoted to Front Page

Northpoint Students Top Finishers in MathCON

Congratulations to Northpoint MathCON finalists!

On May 23rd, the students traveled to Chicago to compete in the MathCON Nationals.

Two of our students earned the highest scores in the state for 4th and 5th grades:

  • Alan J.
  • Sonya L.

These two students also placed at the National Competition and received Honorable Mentions.

Discovery Middle School placed 2nd overall nationally in the 6th grade division. A student was named National Champion for all 6th graders; two others earned Honorable Mention.

Penn High School also performed very well with two Penn students earned the top scores in 9th and 10th grades.

Shape Elements Within You Mathematics 2026 Finals Top Performing Schools: Elementary Schools, High School, Middle School,

P-H-M Third Graders Recognized as National Math Stars Nominees

Eleven Penn-Harris-Madison third grade students have been recognized as National Math Stars nominees through a partnership with the Indiana Department of Education.

The students earned the distinction by scoring in the top 2% of all third grade students in Indiana on the mathematics portion of ILEARN.

The National Math Stars Program is a nationwide initiative that recognizes and supports exceptional young mathematicians through academic enrichment, mentorship and advanced learning opportunities.

P-H-M is proud to celebrate the following students:

Bittersweet Elementary: Niko Hernandez
Elm Road Elementary: Daniel Ashdown
Elsie Rogers Elementary: Zeke Lannan
Horizon Elementary: Booker Kieser, Claire Stewart and Rowan Aland
Meadow’s Edge Elementary: August Kelver
Northpoint Elementary: Alan Jiang, Mason Ye and Frank Li
Prairie Vista Elementary: Emily Wojcik

This recognition reflects the hard work, curiosity and perseverance of these students, as well as the support they receive from their families, teachers and school communities. P-H-M proudly celebrates this outstanding achievement and congratulates each student on this honor.

Young boy wearing a medal around his neck.
Meadow’s Edge: August Kelver
Three children posing in front of a wall with medals around their necks, each holding a medal, smiling and looking at the
Horizon: Booker Kieser, Claire Stewart, & Rowan Aland
Young boy holding a medal in front of a sign for a school. The sign says "national mathematics".
Elm Road: Daniel Ashdown
Girl in jacket holding certificate.
Prairie Vista: Emily Wojcik
Three young boys proudly holding certificates in front of a classroom display.
Northpoint: Frank Li, Mason Ye & Alan Jiang
Young boy proudly holding a certificate of recognition in front of a bulletin board.
Bittersweet: Niko Hernandez
Woman holding a medal with a boy beside her. They are in an office setting.
Elsie Rogers: Zeke Lannan

 

Northpoint’s Jen Payne Recognized with P-H-M Teacher Impact Award

Congratulations to Northpoint Elementary 5th Grade teacher Jen Payne on receiving a P-H-M Teacher Impact Award!

Payne was recognized after her students achieved the highest overall growth in the district for Grade 5 Math from Checkpoint 1 to Checkpoint 3. Her students demonstrated an impressive 133-point growth, outperforming all other Grade 5 Math classes across P-H-M.

Three individuals posing together in an office setting, one woman holding a trophy.

Principal Lorraine White and Superintendent Dr. Heather Short surprised Payne and her students with the award, celebrating the impact of strong instruction, student engagement, and academic achievement in the classroom.

Woman in white shirt standing with group of children posing for picture.

The P-H-M Teacher Impact Awards recognize educators whose students demonstrate exceptional academic growth and success. Payne’s accomplishment reflects the dedication and hard work taking place each day at Northpoint Elementary.

Thank you to the P-H-M Education Foundation for supporting this recognition of excellence in teaching and learning across P-H-M.

Click to see the full photo gallery in Canto.

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.

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  Two people standing in front of a sign celebrating an achievement at a library.

“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.”

“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.”

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 

Northpoint Elementary Recognized by State for IREAD Success

Northpoint Elementary is being recognized at the state level for its strong student performance in reading.

The Indiana Department of Education recently honored schools that achieved a 95% or higher pass rate on the IREAD assessment.

Northpoint earned a 97.1% pass rate, placing it among the schools recognized for high levels of reading proficiency.

The recognition came during a statewide literacy celebration held over spring break last week. Because of the timing, P-H-M representatives were unable to attend.

Northpoint’s results contribute to a strong year for P-H-M overall, with 93.7% of third graders passing IREAD in 2025.

The continued focus on early literacy is helping students build the skills they need for success both in and out of the classroom.

This recognition is another example of #PHMExcellence in action.

Northpoint Leads the Way at 39th Annual P-H-M Elementary Spell Bowl

People sitting in a theater, all wearing black shirts with white designs. They are posing for a picture.Northpoint Elementary students delivered an exceptional performance at the 39th Annual P-H-M Elementary Spell Bowl, held this week at the Penn High School Entrepreneurial Operating Systems Center for Performing Arts.

Northpoint teams earned first place in all three grade levels, including a perfect score in fifth grade.

In third grade, Northpoint took first place with 28 points. The fourth grade team secured first after an intense three-round tiebreaker, finishing with 29 points. In fifth grade, Northpoint capped off the night with a perfect score of 30 points.

The fourth grade competition was one of the most exciting moments of the evening. Northpoint and Prairie Vista both finished with 29 points, sending the contest into a three-round tiebreaker that lasted 15 words. Northpoint ultimately claimed the top spot.

Penn High School Spell Bowl Coach Angela Yarrell served as emcee for the evening, and Superintendent Dr. Heather Short welcomed families to the event.

The annual Spell Bowl highlights academic excellence across P-H-M, and Northpoint students led the way with an outstanding showing.

2026 Results

3rd Grade

1st: Northpoint – 28 points

2nd: Horizon – 26 points

3rd: Bittersweet – 24 points

4th Grade

1st: Northpoint – 29 points (won in tiebreaker)

2nd: Prairie Vista – 29 points

3rd: Bittersweet and Mary Frank – 27 points

5th Grade

1st: Northpoint – 30 points

2nd: Bittersweet – 26 points

3rd: Madison – 23 points

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.

 

Kate the Chemist Celebrates Northpoint’s Million Minute Reading Milestone

Northpoint Elementary students reached an impressive milestone during their February Month of Reading, logging more than one million minutes of reading across the school! To celebrate the achievement, students welcomed a special guest on Friday: Dr. Kate Biberdorf, widely known as “Kate the Chemist.”

Dr. Biberdorf brought science to life with a series of high-energy, interactive demonstrations that connected directly to the school’s reading focus. Throughout February, students read her book Kate the Chemist: The STEM Night Disaster, making her visit a meaningful extension of their learning.

During the assembly, students experienced science in action. Demonstrations included building a confetti cannon, creating controlled fire bursts, and launching hundreds of plastic balls into the air using an explosion of water vapor. Each experiment was conducted in compliance with University of Notre Dame Risk Management and Safety guidelines, ensuring a safe and engaging experience for all.

Dr. Biberdorf is the nation’s first Professor for the Public Understanding of Science at the University of Notre Dame. Through her work, she aims to change how people see science by making it accessible, exciting, and hands-on. She has appeared on national television programs including The Today Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, NBC Nightly News, The Rachael Ray Show, StarTalk with Neil deGrasse Tyson, and Late Night with Stephen Colbert.

In addition to her live demonstrations, Dr. Biberdorf is a bestselling author. Her books include The Big Book of Experiments, The Awesome Book of Edible Experiments for Kids, and It’s Elemental: The Hidden Chemistry in Everything, along with her five-book fiction series featuring “Kate the Chemist.”

Her visit gave Northpoint students the opportunity to see the science they read about come to life, reinforcing the connection between literacy and real-world learning.

Northpoint’s Month of Reading, combined with this interactive experience, highlighted the power of reading to spark curiosity, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

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P-H-M Schools
  • Bittersweet Elementary School
  • Elm Road Elementary School
  • Elsie Rogers Elementary School
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50800 Cherry Rd, Granger, IN 46530
(574) 271-8598

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