In a special meeting held Tuesday, May 27, the Penn-Harris-Madison Board of School Trustees unanimously (7-0) approved the appointment of Dr. Heather Short as the district’s next superintendent effective July 1, 2025.

Nearly 50 P-H-M teachers, administrators, staff, family and friends showed up to express their overwhelming support of Dr. Short’s appointment.

Dr. Short, a lifelong educator who has dedicated her entire 31-year career to P-H-M, will succeed Dr. Jerry Thacker, who is retiring after 19 years of transformative leadership. Dr. Short has served as Assistant Superintendent for Instruction since 2017. During her tenure, P-H-M students have experienced consistent academic growth and achievement.

“I am deeply honored by the Board’s confidence and grateful to Dr. Thacker for his mentorship throughout my career,” said Dr. Short. “It has been the privilege of a lifetime to grow as a leader within this incredible district. I’m excited to continue working alongside our talented staff, dedicated families, and exceptional students to expand opportunities and ensure every child thrives.”

Under Dr. Short’s leadership, P-H-M ranks in the top 4% of Indiana districts based on ILEARN scores. The district also outpaces the state average by 20 percentage points in overall percent passing rates.

“There is no one better—or more qualified—to lead P-H-M’s continued path of academic excellence than Dr. Short,” said Chris Riley, President of the Board of School Trustees. “Her academic expertise and visionary leadership in developing rigorous, relevant curriculum have been key to our students’ success. Dr. Short was the Board’s clear and unanimous choice for superintendent.”

P-H-M is home to some of Indiana’s highest-performing public schools in both English/Language Arts and Math. Prairie Vista Elementary ranks #3 in the state, while Discovery Middle School ranks #2. In Spring 2024, P-H-M’s IREAD pass rate was 86.8%, surpassing the state average of 82.5%. Three P-H-M elementary schools—Prairie Vista (97.7%), Northpoint (95%), and Horizon (95.3%)—achieved pass rates above 90%.

Included in her district-wide academic strategy was a robust Response to Intervention (RtI) program and expanded summer offerings that support both enrichment and remediation.

Dr. Short’s leadership journey reflects deep roots and unwavering commitment to P-H-M. She began her career as a classroom teacher before serving as an Instructional Leader and High Ability Coordinator. Click here to learn how Dr. Short and Board Trustee Katie Bell’s paths crossed when Dr. Short was a 3rd grade teacher at Northpoint. In 2004, she became principal of Prairie Vista Elementary. Recognizing her talent for professional growth and instructional excellence, Dr. Thacker appointed her in 2007 as P-H-M’s first Director of Professional Development—a role she held for a decade before being named Assistant Superintendent.

Throughout her career, Dr. Short has been deeply committed to developing others. She co-created a nationally recognized leadership development program designed to build internal capacity among P-H-M educators and administrators. Her strategic focus on professional development has empowered teachers at every level—from new educators to veteran principals—through initiatives like the annual Literacy Summit and the New Teacher Series.

As Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Short has combined her instructional leadership with strong fiscal stewardship. She has overseen the management of multimillion-dollar budgets and successfully secured hundreds of thousands of dollars in state grants—investments that have directly enhanced classroom instruction, expanded student programs, and strengthened districtwide operations.

“Dr. Short possesses one of the most valuable qualities a leader can have: the ability to build genuine relationships,” said Dr. Thacker. “She makes personal connections with teachers, principals, staff, families—and most importantly, students. She understands the P-H-M culture because she helped build it. There is no one more fitting to serve as the next superintendent.”

After the Board approved Dr. Short as the district’s new leader, Board members shared well wishes and comments. Trustee Katie Bell (elected in November 2024) talked about how things have come full circle for her as a former student of Dr. Short’s when she taught 3rd grade gifted and talented students at Northpoint. The two were actually featured in an article that ran in the South Bend Tribune in March 2003. The article featured Dr. Short teaching her students how to use PowerPoint for their Geography reports on Asia. Click here to read the original story.

Fast forward to 2013 to when Dr. Short was P-H-M’s Director of Professional Development, she interviewed Bell for a teaching position. Bell was hired as a kindergarten teacher in 2016 at Prairie Vista Elementary School and Dr. Short led the professional development for all new teachers. 

“Dr. Short and I are a testament that it’s never goodbye, it’s always see you later,” Bell said. “And I think that shows the true impact of a teacher, that they are in your lives forever, and that you will always remember them.”

Media Coverage

• South Bend Tribune
• ABC 57
• WSBT-TV
• WNDU-TV

The last day of school for the 2025-2026 school year is Thursday, June 4, 2026. But your child’s education does not have to end, and should not. Research shows students may lose two or more months’ worth of reading achievement, a month or more of spelling learning skills and about 2 months’ worth of grade level equivalency in mathematical computation skills during their summer break.

That’s why P-H-M offers a wide variety of activities over the summer from District enrichment camps to Penn athletic camps, as well as opportunities for students to improve their academic skills in Summer School. The enrichment academies are offered through P-H-M’s Learning Division and are FREE! We believe that children’s summer break can be fun while also giving students the academic boost they need.

Listed below are some of the activities available to P-H-M students and children in the greater community this summer. Parents are responsible for transportation unless otherwise noted. Not all camps are open to students who do not attend P-H-M schools, so please read the qualifications for each camp carefully. Click here for a listing of non-PHM community organizations that also offer summer camps activities.

Please Note: Camp Availability Subject to Change

Penn Athletic and Academic Camps

• Kingsmen Camps: Penn coaches and members of the P-H-M faculty offer a wide variety of athletic and academic summer camp opportunities, including sports such as cheerleading, basketball, baseball, flag football, and boys and girls volleyball, as well as academic options like robotics and speech and debate. Camps are open to current students in grades K–8 (most are open to all children in the community). There is a cost for these camps.
  • Click here to see the full listing on Penn’s website. 

Enrichment Academies

• Visual Arts Academy (July 13 – 17, July 20 – 24, or July 27 – July 31, 2026)
  In this award-winning one-week academy, current P-H-M Kindergarten – 5th grade students learn art history, art production and writing through a unique integration program. The program is based at Penn High School and in collaboration with the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art. Families may select the week that is most convenient for all of their children to attend, regardless of their grade.  The program is free of charge. Registration is required and it is on a first come first served basis as space is limited for this week long learning opportunity!
  • All Sessions are now full, thank you for your interest, we can’t wait to see you!

• Junior STEM Academy 
  In this one-week academy, current P-H-M Kindergarten – 5th graders will discover how math and science are applied in the real world. Each week is reserved for specific grades and will be held at Penn High School.  The program is free of charge.  Registration is required and it is on a first come first served basis as space is limited for this week-long learning opportunity!
  
  • Kindergarten and 1st grade attend the week of July 27 – July 31 
  • 2nd and 3rd grade attend the week of July 20 – 24 
  • 4th and 5th grade attend the week of July 13 – 17 
  • All Sessions are now full, thank you for your interest, we can’t wait to see you!
     
• Junior Foreign Language Academy (July 13 – 17) 
  This academy integrates the German language, social studies, culture, visual arts and music into an intensive and enriching learning experience.  The one-week camp is held at Penn High School and is open to current P-H-M 3rd, 4th or 5th grade students.  The program is free of charge.  Registration is required and it is on a first come first served basis as space is limited for this week long learning opportunity!
  
  • All Sessions are now full, thank you for your interest, we can’t wait to see you!
    
    
• Learn a Foreign Language Academy (June 15 – 26) 
  This two-week academy is open to current P-H-M 6th and 7th graders.  The course will be taught by Penn High School Foreign Language teachers who will teach the students how to read, write, and speak in Spanish.  The program is free of charge. Registration is required and it is on a first come first served basis as space is limited for this week long learning opportunity!
  
  • All Sessions are now full, thank you for your interest, we can’t wait to see you!

Opportunities through P-H-M Community Education – Click for Full Brochure

Community Education classes are open to any student in the community; the child does not need to be a P-H-M student or live within the District to be eligible.

Learn to Swim Classes: (Penn High School, Session I: June 15-26, 2026; Session II: July 6-17, 2026; Session III: July 20-July 31, 2026)
All three sessions are 10 classes held at the Penn High School pool.  Classes are 30 minutes each and take place both in the morning and afternoon with 8 different class times to pick from. Children must be at least 4-years-old and potty trained. The cost is $50 per child, per two-week session. Click for more details.

Camp Invention (Mary Frank Elementary School – June 22-26, 2026)
A week-long summer enrichment program for children entering Grades 1–6. Camp Invention program instills life skills such as problem-solving and teamwork through
hands-on fun! Camp will be held Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. It will be based at Mary Frank Elementary School. The cost is $290 Click here to register and pay online through the Camp Invention website.

Super Kids Camp (Horizon; June 15-19, 2026 | Mary Frank; July 13-17, 2026 | Elsie Rogers; July 27-31 2026)
Students entering Grades 1- 6 will experience an engaging rotation of science, music, art and fitness activities in this half-day camp. Camp hours are 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at three locations. The cost is $50 per child per camp. Click here for more details.

Youth Theater Camp at Penn High School (Session I: June 22-26, 2026; Session II: July 20-24, 2026)
A one-week creative and expressive experience for students entering Grades 5 – 8. Pick one (or both) of these weeks for your child to attend. This half-day camp is offered 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The cost is $90 and includes a t-shirt. Click for more details.

Summer Kids Club (June 8th – August 14th)

Full-day childcare will be offered for  current P-H-M students in grades K-5. Children will enjoy a variety of educational and recreational activities, crafts and field trips. Click here for more details and online registration. 

Summer School Information 

P-H-M will conduct two Summer School sessions prior to the start of the 2026-2027 school year. Current P-H-M students who need the academic boost from summer instruction will receive invitations to attend. Penn High School students are able to take high school classes for credit in either summer session. Some students will work online to complete coursework and make up credits.

For elementary, middle and high school students, Summer School will be offered. Times vary depending on the program, please refer to the programs below.  

ELEMENTARY SUMMER SCHOOL (Grades K-4, June 11 – July 1)

• Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Meadow’s Edge and Moran Elementary School, breakfast & lunch provided, P-H-M Transportation available to students that live within PHM boundaries

MIDDLE SCHOOL SUMMER SCHOOL (Grades 5 – 7, June 11– July 1)

• Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Penn High School, P-H-M Transportation available to students that live within PHM boundaries

YOUNG ADULT & LIFE SKILLS (Grades 6 – Young Adult, June 11– July 1)

• Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Penn High School, P-H-M Transportation available to students that live within PHM boundaries

PENN HIGH SUMMER SCHOOL, Session 1 (June 11 – July 1)
PENN HIGH SUMMER SCHOOL, Session 2 (July 9 – July 29)

• Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Penn High School, P-H-M Transportation available to students who live within P-H-M boundaries

P-H-M students entering grades 9-12 must register with their school counselor to take high school summer school classes. Click here for more information on Penn’s website. 

We’re thrilled to welcome back all of our 11,000+ students and are excited to help all our students achieve Excellence.

The first day of school will be Wednesday, August 19, 2026 for grades 1 – 12.

• All students in 1st through 12th grades will report to their school buildings that day, and all those who are signed up for transportation services may ride the bus that day.  
• Kindergarten orientation takes place on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 with the first full day of kindergarten being Thursday, August 20th,

BACK TO SCHOOL EVENTS:

Check out your school’s calendar (click here for a list of school websites) for the many back to school events starting in early August and mark your calendar to attend!

• Our elementary schools are hosting many fun Back to School family events starting the week of August 10th. Be on the lookout from communication directly from your school principal. 
• All three Middle Schools are also planning a Walk-Around on Thursday, August 13^th. Be on the lookout from communication directly from your school principal. Make sure you mark your calendar and plan to attend!
• Penn is hosting a “Walk Around” to help parents and students get familiar with the school:
  • Penn High School’s “WALK AROUND” on Saturday, August 15, from 9 a.m. – Noon gives students a chance to familiarize themselves with the school and find where their classes and activities are located.

The BACK TO SCHOOL INFORMATION listed below will help P-H-M parents and students get ready for the 2026-27 School Year! 

CONTACTING SCHOOLS OVER THE SUMMER

• Elementary and Middle School Front Offices open Monday, August 3rd.
• Penn is open every week day over the summer.
• All schools are open Monday – Friday during business hours. Those hours vary by school.
• Click here for the School Directory of all 15 schools

ENROLLING YOUR STUDENT

• Enroll a new elementary or middle school student by visiting the school after offices open August 3, 2026. Click here to know what documentation you need to bring with you for registration.
• Enroll a new Penn High School student by calling (574) 254-2851. We will help you schedule your registration appointment and advise you on what information to bring with you to the appointment.  

BACK TO SCHOOL PACKETS & FORMS

• Back to School packet & information sheets can be found in ParentSquare under LINKS in the right column
• Parent/guardians are asked to these three forms in ParentSquare as soon as possible:
  • Photo Consent
  • Mandatory Curriculum Consent
  • Handbook Certification   
• These forms will be in Skyward Family Access:
  • CHIRP Release
  • Chromebook packet
  • Authorization to administer non-prescription medication at school

Click here for more information on how to login into your Skyward Family Access account

SCHOOL CALENDARS

• Here is the SY 2026-27 one-page calendar showing “at a glance” the start and end dates, as well as scheduled recess and vacation dates.
•  
  All P-H-M families are mailed the P-H-M District Activities Calendar early August. It lists key school and district events throughout the year. Click here to access a PDF version.
• Our online (Google) calendars are the most up-to-date. You’ll find a link to the P-H-M Corporate Calendar posted on the home page of the District website. It’s a Google calendar that can be added to your personal calendar.
• Each school also maintains an online Google calendar on the home page of each school website that is updated frequently with the school’s scheduled activities and event details. This is also visible in your school’s ParentSquare portal.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

• All P-H-M schools provide basic school supplies to our students, free of charge. Therefore, our schools do not issue supply lists. You will need to purchase a backpack, water bottle, lunch box, and other items you want your child to have at home or take with them to school. If other specific items need to be purchased for a class or lab, your child’s teacher will inform you after school starts.  

IMMUNIZATIONS AND HEALTHCARE SERVICES

• Click here to make sure you child is up-to-date with all required immunizations. 
• Proof of immunizations must be provided to the school office by the first day of school.
• Kindergarten parents, please get important kindergarten health information and medical forms turned in before your kindergartner’s first day of school. 
• Click here for the forms administering medications at school
• Click here for more information on P-H-M Healthcare Services 

TRANSPORTATION

• NEW FOR THE 2026-27 SY, P-H-M will be using Tyler Technologies, My Ride K-12 to provide real time GPS bus location so parents know when to send their students out to the bus stop. 
• Click here for instructions on how to set up your My Ride K-12 account through the app or website.
• Parents will be able to access their students’ bus routes and schedules through the My Ride K-12 app starting Friday, August 14.
• Have more questions about Transportation? Click here for Transportation contact information.

CELL PHONE POLICY

• Beginning with the 2026-27 School Year, Indiana Senate Enrolled Act 78 (SEA 78) requires that personal wireless communication devices are powered off and not accessible to students during the school day. 
• This law is applicable to all levels: elementary, middle and Penn High School. Click here to see the protocols.
• Principals will also share more information with families in their back to school messages.

FOOD SERVICE

• Visit our Food & Nutrition page  to see monthly menus and find nutritional information
• See if you qualify for Free/Reduced Lunch and Textbook Assistance. Click here to apply online.
• Online payment for child’s meals
• Other Payment options

PARENTSQUARE

• Penn-Harris-Madison uses ParentSquare to send urgent alerts, such as school closings and delays.
• Click here for instructions on setting up your account.
• Principals and teachers also use it for non curricular school and classroom communications.
  • Penn High School coaches and teachers who sponsor clubs, academic teams or extracurricular activities use StudentSquare to safely communicate with students, without exchanging cell phone numbers. Click here for details on how students can sign up for StudentSquare.
• Once your account is set up, families can chose their preferred mode of communication for non-urgent notifications–app, text, email, phone. You can also chose to have all communications automatically translated to your preferred first language. Click here for details on how to personalize your account and check your notification settings.

CLOSINGS/DELAYS PROCEDURES

• Make sure you sign up for ParentSquare to receive school closings/delays urgent alerts.
• Click to see how, when and what factors into P-H-M’s decision makings for 2-hour delays and closings. 

Penn-Harris-Madison’s culture of excellence, what we call #PHMExcellence, is built upon the “Triangle of Success”– linking students, teachers, and parents for the the best outcome for students. Success depends on supportive parents … help us help your children!

PARENTS Click here for ways to stay informed, as well getting connected and volunteering.