Welcome back to school! The first day of classes was Aug. 24.

I hope you have a great 2026-27 academic year!

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Back-to-school and meet-the-teacher nights are underway.

• Northampton Area Middle School: 6-8 p.m. Aug. 27. Parents are invited to meet with teachers and follow their students’ schedules for the evening.

• Siegfried Elementary School (for grades 2-5): Sept. 3

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Smile! Picture days are approaching. All students will have their photos taken, but purchase is optional. Students will bring home ordering options.

• Lehigh Elementary School: Sept. 3

• East Allen Elementary School: Sept. 10

• George Wolf Elementary School: Sept. 11

• Siegfried Elementary School: Sept. 16

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Northampton Area School District will be closed Sept. 7 for Labor Day.

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Important guidelines for cellphone use are in place in NASD, which supports an educational environment that is safe, secure, orderly and conducive to learning for all district employees and students, in accordance with NASD Board Policy 237. While NASD recognizes the potential benefits of electronic devices when used responsibly for educational purposes, their use during instructional time can disrupt the academic setting and interfere with teaching and learning. Students may not use cellphones or other electronic devices during class time unless explicitly permitted by their teacher.

NASD strongly believes in providing students with authentic, real-world and inquiry-based learning opportunities, and every student in the district receives a Chromebook to help them navigate the curriculum. Students are encouraged to keep their Chromebooks in working condition and safe. They should always transport their Chromebooks to and from school, as well as while walking in the hallways, using the provided case.

Because accidents do happen, students are required to report any damage to their Chromebook immediately. The technology department offers the option to purchase insurance for student Chromebooks. Information regarding this optional insurance can be found on the district website, and it was also sent via the Sapphire community portal.

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A strong school community involves teachers, students and parents/guardians. Joining the PTA is a great way to support your child and their classmates while getting involved with the school.

If you are interested and would like to learn how you can be involved, contact your child’s school PTA through the appropriate school websites.

The PTA is always welcoming volunteers and support from the community.

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Please be sure to stay connected and keep communication open for your child’s successful school year. There are many tools for parents/guardians to utilize to stay in touch and to access important information.

Visit the NASD website at nasdschools.org for many important forms you may need.

You may also download the NASD app, which allows parents/guardians to access documents, events, news updates and emergency notifications. Download the app on Android at https://bit.ly/2TZZEzm or iPhone at https://apple.co/3k9Y5tB.

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If you are an administrator, teacher, coach, club adviser, student or PTA member who would like to share school district news, email me at jamb87@hotmail.com with Northampton School District News in the subject.