Dear PACT Elementary Families,

As the crisp fall air settles in and we move into November, I want to take a moment to celebrate the many wonderful things happening across our school community. It has been an exciting and joy-filled season of learning, growth, and Panther Pride!

On November 11, PACT Elementary gathered as a school community to honor the men and women who have served—and continue to serve—our country in the Armed Forces. We were proud to welcome many special guests, including veterans from our community, Superintendent Dr. Nathan Flansburg, State Senator Cal Bahr, and our Elementary Student Council President and Vice President.

In my opening remarks, I shared personal reflections about the meaning of Veterans Day and the importance of gratitude—our PACT character trait of the month. We reflected together on how service comes in many forms, from defending our freedoms to showing kindness and respect in our daily lives.

The program featured songs, speeches, and student reflections, creating a heartfelt tribute to those who bravely represent our nation. It was a meaningful morning of remembrance, respect, and school pride.

Our Fall 2025 Reading Rewards Program, hosted by Ms. Schaible, is wrapping up—and what an incredible success it has been! Since the beginning of the year, students have read 1,523 books, completed book reports, and earned charms in recognition of their efforts. A total of 239 students participated and collectively earned 475 pocket pets! Even more impressive, our library checked out 1,786 more books than at this time last year. Thank you, families, for encouraging a love of reading at home—it’s clearly making a difference!

A big thank-you to our amazing PACT Panthers PTO for their hard work on the “Cash Calendar” fundraiser. We met our fundraising goal, and their contributions are already being felt in classrooms through new supplies and learning resources. We are so grateful for their partnership and the positive impact they have on our students and staff.

This fall, our staff has been deepening our work around MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports). Our goal is to ensure every student receives the right level of academic and behavioral support.

We are committed to providing meaningful support for every learner, every day.

As part of our focus on effective MTSS implementation, we will be making minor schedule adjustments beginning in 2026. In addition to strong core instruction in Literacy and Math, all elementary students will enjoy a scheduled DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) time, as well as an increase in Science, Social Studies, and Writing instruction. We are excited about the balanced learning opportunities these small changes will provide!

One of the best parts of my job is visiting classrooms! I’ve already been to each classroom at least twice this year to offer encouragement and support related to teachers’ instructional growth goals. As a building, we’re collectively focused on two shared growth goals from the 5D+ Dimensions of Teaching and Learning Framework: Differentiated Instruction for Students and Use of Learning Time. I am incredibly proud of our teachers’ dedication and the joyful learning that takes place in every room.

October and November have been full of hands-on experiences for our students!

Thank you to the staff and chaperones for making these meaningful learning experiences possible.

Last but certainly not least, our Spirit Week was an absolute hit! The Elementary Student Council planned five days of fun that brought energy and excitement to our building. From favorite book characters and wacky hair to “twinning” outfits, “soccer moms and barbecue dads,” and of course, Panther Pride Day, our hallways were filled with creativity and laughter. It was a wonderful way to build community and celebrate being part of PACT.

As we enter this season of gratitude, I would like to thank each of you for the ways you support our students and staff. Your partnership makes our school a vibrant and joyful environment where students can learn and grow.

With a spirit of thanksgiving,

Lara Bronson, Ed.D.

PACT Elementary Principal