Mechanicsburg Area School District

🧦 HEY DANA, YOU KNOCKED OUR SOCKS OFF! // When a colleague called to report they’d been in an accident, Upper Allen Elementary School's Dana Padfield didn’t think twice. She dropped everything, went straight to them, and offered the comfort and support they needed most in that moment.

Her kindness, quick response, and genuine care are perfect examples of the Wildcat Way. 💙🐾

#WildcatPride #YouKnockedOurSocksOff

6 months ago, MBGSD

A man in a suit presenting a pair of branded socks to a staff member.

🎨 MIDDLE SCHOOL ARTISTS OF THE MONTH // Marking Period 1

We’re excited to shine a spotlight on our MMS Wildcats who were named Artists of the Month for the first marking period! Their creativity, hard work, and passion for the arts continue to brighten our hallways and inspire their classmates.

From bold color choices to imaginative designs, these young artists are showcasing excellence and pride in every piece they create. 🐾

👏 Help us celebrate their talent and dedication — we can’t wait to see what they make next!

📸 Graphics shared courtesy MMS Art Teacher Trinh Sudak.

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

Collage of headshots of students artists of the month.

🌍 WORLD TRAVELERS // Wildcats at Upper Allen Elementary School proudly hosted their annual World Expo Day — a special tradition that celebrates the many cultures and stories that make our school community so vibrant and beautiful. Our Wildcats "traveled the globe” as they explored the traditions, languages, and experiences of their classmates, strengthening the connections that make our schools feel like home.

We are deeply grateful to our family and community volunteers who make this event truly extraordinary. From hands-on demonstrations to delicious cultural treats, this immersive experience continues to be one of the most beloved days of the year. 💙🐾

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

Students participate in a World Expo Day.

Participants in colorful attire during a World Expo Day.

🧡🦃 THANKFUL FOR A GIVING COMMUNITY // Across the district, our Wildcats came together to support Operation Wildcat's Thanksgiving Food Drive — and the impact was truly heartwarming.

From classrooms to main offices, families, staff, and students donated items to help ensure local families have a brighter, more comfortable holiday. Thank you to everyone who contributed. Your generosity reflects the very best of our Wildcat community — compassion, connection, and a willingness to lift others up.

📸 Broad Street Elementary School Student Ambassadors helped pack donation boxes, adding their own care and kindness to every bag. Photos shared courtesy Jennifer Rogosky, third grade teacher at Broad Street.

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

Students standing beside a table of food collected for a thanksgiving food drive.

Students sorting food that was collected for a food drive.

A group of young students standing in front of a cart full of food collected during a food drive.

🎶 Our talented musicians from MMS have been everywhere this November — and we're loving every note.

🎤 Last week, several Wildcats took the stage at the Sweet Soundsations festival at Central Dauphin Middle School, joining young musicians from across Pennsylvania to rehearse with a guest conductor and put on a beautiful concert. And today, more of our singers are representing MASD at the Octavators festival at Cedar Cliff High School. Over 160 student musicians from around the state came together to form one powerhouse Octavators choir.

We’re so proud of our young vocalists for sharing their gifts, stepping into new opportunities, and making music that connects us all. 🐾

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

A group of girls preparing to sing in a choir festival.

A group of boys preparing to sing in a choir festival.

🔤 IT'S A 'WIN' AT SHEP // WIN (What I Need) time gives our Wildcats the chance to learn in the way that works best for them — from targeted small-group lessons, to partner practice, to independent skill-building. In Mrs. Tamosaitis’s first grade classroom, students were recently spotted putting their CKLA word knowledge to the test with an engaging reading game. A great blend of focus, fun, and meaningful learning for the 'WIN'!

📸 Shoutout to our friends at Shep for sharing this great moment with us.

6 months ago, MBGSD

A teacher working on the floor with young students.

🐾 WILDCATS ON THE RISE // Junior Link Leaders recently represented Mechanicsburg Area Senior High School at the Link Crew Leadership Conference at Hershey High School. They joined fellow student leaders from across the region for a student-led day focused on connection, belonging, and building strong school communities.

We’re so proud of these Wildcats for leading with heart, purpose, and positivity — and for helping make our schools a place where every student feels seen and supported.

📸 Special thanks to Tricia Donley, MASH English teacher, for capturing these moments.

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

A group of students and staff gathered around a banner with a letter M.

A large group of students gathered in a high school gym.

💙💛 CHILDREN'S GRIEF AWARENESS DAY // Across our Wildcat community, students of all ages spent time today learning simple, age-appropriate ways to be Champions of Hope — everyday helpers who notice when someone needs a little extra care and lift them up with kindness.

Our youngest Wildcats learned about feelings through butterfly art 🦋, reminding us that even small acts of compassion can make a big difference. Together, we’re building a community where every Wildcat feels supported, seen, and cared for. 🐾

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

A young child proudly holding a picture of a butterfly they colored.

A young child coloring a picture of a butterfly they colored.

A young child sitting in circle time in school, holding a picture of a butterfly they colored.

🚀🪐 AN OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD SCIENCE SPOTLIGHT // Some of our young scientists at Mechanicsburg Middle School recently took center stage during the Science Showcase, sharing everything they’ve discovered about our incredible solar system. From planets and moons to stars and beyond, these Wildcats amazed us with their curiosity and creativity.

📸 Shoutout to Rebecca Kuhn for capturing these moments.

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

A student showing his solar system display.

A student showing a solar system display.

A student showing an educator a display on the solar system.

A student showing a school police officer a display on the solar system.

A student showing a educators a display on the solar system.

A student showing a teacher a display on the solar system.

🐾 EVERY WILDCAT. EVERY DAY. // Belonging matters! 💬 Students are more likely to attend regularly when they feel connected to adults and friends at school. Ask your Wildcat what they enjoy most about their day—and help them stay involved in the activities and relationships that make school feel like home.

#WildcatPride #EveryWildcatEveryDay

6 months ago, MBGSD

Maroon graphic that provides info on how you can help your child feel connected at school.

💦 SINK OR FLOAT? LET'S FIND OUT! // Kelly Jo Wharton’s 3rd graders at Upper Allen Elementary School put their predictions to the test during a hands-on science lesson. From curious questions to big splashes and even bigger smiles, our young scientists were all in!

Learning is always an adventure for our Wildcats. 🐾

📸 Thank you to Stacy Salter for capturing learning in action!

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

Students looking into a bucket full of water and items to see what sinks and what floats.

Students gathered around a table with items and a bucket of water, making predictions about what will sink and what will float.

🎶 A POWERFUL COLLABORATION OF MUSIC // Some of our talented student musicians from MASH recently joined the Harrisburg Youth Symphony Orchestra and the Cedar Cliff High School chorus for a special concert at Messiah University.

It was an incredible experience that showcased artistry, teamwork, and the power of music to bring communities together. 💜

📸 Special shoutout to Dr. Bitz for capturing this moment in music on film.

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

A photo from the audience of a musical collaborative on stage.

🧦 HEY RACHEL, YOU KNOCKED OUR SOCKS OFF! // Today we’re celebrating Art Teacher Rachel Connell for truly going above and beyond. When we came to her with a brainstorm about switching up our annual appreciation card, she didn’t miss a beat — she jumped right in, pivoted effortlessly, and, with the help of some young Wildcats, brought the new idea to life.

Thanks to her creativity and quick thinking, we now have beautiful student artwork that perfectly captures a heartfelt message of belonging for our entire Wildcat community. 💜🐾 If you haven't already seen the card, be sure to check out this morning's post.

#WildcatPride #YouKnockedOurSocksOff

6 months ago, MBGSD

A man in a suit presenting a paid of branded socks to a teacher.

🤍 AMERICAN EDUCATION WEEK 2025 // From us to you, we share the special message below.

We are grateful for you — your commitment, your care, and your belief in every Wildcat’s inherent worth and potential. Thank you!

🎨 Please help us also celebrate and thank Broad Street Elementary School's Jonah, Vivienne, and Rahil for the hand drawn artwork (and smiles!).

Be sure to check back later today for a special video message from Dr. Bitz.

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

Collage of photos of students holding handdrawn signs that share a message of appreciation and belonging.

🐾 BUILDING STRONGER TEAMS — ON AND OFF THE FIELD // Our Athletic Department recently welcomed Keith Waldman of Optimal Performance Associates, who led an energizing coaching development session for our coaches and assistant coaches. From connection to communication to collaboration, the focus was all about team building — strengthening the bonds that help our Wildcats thrive.

Huge thanks to Keith for equipping our coaching staff with fresh strategies and inspiration as we continue to support our student-athletes!

📸 Special thanks to AD Seth Pehanich for capturing these team building moments in action.

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

A gentleman working with a coach on a team building lesson.

A gentleman working with coaches on a team building lesson.

🐾 Wildcats are staying busy, even after the final bell of the day. In partnership with Mechanicsburg Area Recreation Department, Mechanicsburg MIddle School is buzzing with energy thanks to the MAPS after-school activities program. Twice a week this fall, students and staff came together to try new things, build friendships, stay connected, and simply have fun.

From The Babysitters Club and Dungeons & Dragons to Board Games, Drawing, and Esports—there’s no shortage of laughter, creativity, and connection happening throughout the building.

MAPS will return this spring with a whole new lineup of activities exclusively for our Wildcats in grades 6–8. Stay tuned… great things will continue.

📸 Special thanks to Melissa Coffman for snapping photos of MAPS in action.

#WildcatPride

6 months ago, MBGSD

Students sitting outside on a sidewalk, where they wrote Babysitters Club in chalk.

Students participate in an afterschool art club.

Students participate in an afterschool sports club.

Students participate in an afterschool gaming club.

Students participate in an afterschool Esports club.

Students participate in an afterschool club.

🎤 Our MASH Speech & Debate Team officially opened the 2025–26 season at the Dallastown Wildcat Invitational on Saturday, Nov. 8 — and our Wildcats made us proud!

Three Public Forum debate teams hit the competition floor, including veteran Public Forum speakers Chelsea Guan, co-captain, and Ayten Eldib, who mentored novice teams Kaylee Witters & Emily Jogi and Josiah Bulus & Sajith Ayala throughout the event. Another novice competitor, Allison Shute, stepped up in Impromptu Speaking.

👏 A special shoutout to veteran member and co-captain Aiden Pinsker, who advanced to the final round of Extemporaneous Speaking and earned 6th place out of 17 competitors!

The Wildcats are already gearing up for their next tournament — the Lasalle Forum Invitational at Lasalle College High School next month.

Way to go, Speech & Debate! 🐾

6 months ago, MBGSD

A group of high school students standing in front of the school.

💛 WORLD KINDNESS DAY, PART 3 // Our Mechanicsburg Middle School Student Advisory brought smiles (and snacks!) to staff recently with a thoughtful — and delicious — surprise. 🥨 Every staff member received a soft pretzel paired with the perfect message: Don’t get twisted — this year would knot be the same without staff like you.

A little appreciation goes a long way, and our Wildcats continue to show just how powerful kindness can be. 🐾

📸 Special thanks to School Social Worker Jess Long for capturing this moment.

#WildcatPride #WorldKindnessDay

6 months ago, MBGSD

Students with a staff member who is holding a soft pretzel.

Students with a teacher who is biting on a soft pretzel.

Students with a teacher who is holding a soft pretzel

💛 WORLD KINDNESS DAY, PART 2 // Our Student Ambassadors at Broad Street Elementary School set a big challenge — and our school community rose to meet it! Together, they collected 45 pounds of coins in support of Operation Wildcat’s Project Pennies for Pies, helping ensure local families receive Thanksgiving pies in their holiday baskets. 🥧

What is Pennies for Pies? Through tomorrow, Friday, 11/14/25, coins are being collected in every MASD school main office, the District Office, the Rec Center, and several community partners (H2L, Susquehanna Federal Credit Union, Sylvan Learning Center, and West Shore Tennis Club). All donated pennies go toward purchasing pies for families in need this Thanksgiving.

We’re incredibly proud of our students for leading with generosity, kindness, and heart. 🐾

📸 We appreciate Administrative Assistant Tara Bradley for capturing 3rd grade Student Ambassadors Peter and Bedelia with a (heavy!) bucket of coins.

#WildcatPride #WorldKindnessDay

6 months ago, MBGSD

Two young students standing behind a bucket of coins that was donated for a fundraiser.

💛 HAPPY WORLD KINDNESS DAY, WILDCATS // Kindness comes in so many forms — a smile, a high-five, a helping hand, or simply showing up for one another. Throughout the day, we’ll be celebrating the big and small acts of kindness that make our schools feel like home.

🚓 First up: a seriously joyful moment at Elmwood Academy! Our friends at the Mechanicsburg Police Department surprised 4th and 5th graders with a drop-in kickball game yesterday — and based on the smiles all around, we’re pretty sure they had just as much fun as our Wildcats. 🐾

Stay tuned for more kindness in action across MASD, today and every day.

📸 Special thanks to Keith Shively and Dr. Dankosky for capturing this special moment of kindness, joy, and community partnerships in action.

#WildcatPride #WorldKindnessDay

6 months ago, MBGSD

A group of students on a playground with police officers after a game of kickball.

Students playing kickball on the playground with police officers.

A police officer playing kickball on a playground with a group of students.

Police officers playing kickball on a playground with a group of students.