ATTN SENIORS: Gate Change Arriving for Commencement

Please note on the day of commencement, Monday, June 8th, the doors for students to enter Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center will be open at 4:30 p.m. Seniors are to enter at Gate 3 and report to the field house at the Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center by 4:45 p.m. Seniors arriving after 5 p.m. will not be in alphabetical order and may be required to be seated at the end of the line or may even be excluded from commencement.

Parents and students can find other pertentent information related to Commencement on the 2026 Commencement Information web page.

Penn Class of 2026 Career Signing Day

Penn High School celebrated students taking the next step toward their futures today with two Signing Day events recognizing members of the Class of 2026 pursuing careers in education and the skilled trades.

Click to see the full photo gallery in the Class of 2026 Photo Poral: https://phmexcellence.com/PhotosClassof2026

Five girls signing papers at a table in front of a podium.This morning, Penn hosted its third annual Teacher Signing Day, a tradition that began with the Class of 2024. Thirteen graduating seniors were recognized for their commitment to majoring in education in college and pursuing careers as future teachers.

The future teachers are guaranteed a job interview with P-H-M upon completion of their education degree and teacher licensure.

The students invited a current P-H-M teacher who played a meaningful role in encouraging their interest in the profession.

And then this afternoon, two more seniors pursuing careers in the skilled trades were recognized in the second Signing Day event.

Patrick Henning signed his commitment to begin an apprenticeship with Local 172 Plumbers and Pipefitters, while Brayden Ruth was recognized for enrolling in the Hobart Institute of Welding Technology’s 10-month welding program.

Local 172 Plumbers and Pipefitters is a valued community partner and a supporter of PHM Education Foundation.

The afternoon event highlighted additional career pathways available to Penn students as they prepare for life after graduation.

Together, the Signing Day celebrations reflected the many pathways Penn students can pursue after graduation.

Below is a sampling of the pictures taken at today’s events. Click to see the full galleries in the Class of 2026 Photo Poral: https://phmexcellence.com/PhotosClassof2026

Penn’s Mr. Michael Coffee Wins Jeneane Arter Excellence in Teaching Award

Penn High School AP Literature Teacher Michael Coffee was surprised in his classroom this afternoon (Tuesday, May 26) with the Jeneane Arter Excellence in Teaching Award, recognizing his lasting impact on students and their educational experiences.

Known for his passion for literature and his commitment to students, Mr. Coffee’s classroom goes beyond the basics of course requirements. Students say his lessons challenge them to think differently, often centered around the idea of “direct your destiny,” a message that resonates far beyond the classroom.

Two people shaking hands in a classroom setting.

 

Students nominate their teachers for the Arter award by submitting short essays about how their favorite teacher is impacting their lives.

“The fact that he cares about the subject matter, is that he cares about his students. He wants to see them succeed, and he wants to see them grow,” one student wrote. “After every email, every question, and every conversation one has with Mr. Coffee, you walk away feeling reassured and understood, sure, but you also feel mentally driven. He doesn’t just give you the answer, but he gives you stellar toolbox at finding it.” 

Students consistently describe Mr. Coffee as thoughtful, patient, and deeply invested in their success. Whether through detailed feedback, engaging discussions, or simply making time to help, they say he creates an environment where growth and confidence take hold.

Despite balancing the demands of teaching, grading, and supporting his own family, Coffee brings the same level of energy and dedication to his classroom every day. Students say that commitment is what sets him apart.

Another student who nominated Mr. Coffee shared “There are fun teachers, understanding teachers, and teachers who teach the subject in a manner that gives you a great understanding. Most teachers are at least one. Some have two of these qualities. But rarely does a teacher truly exhibit all three qualities. From the first email I ever received from Mr. Coffee I knew he had all three.”

Four people standing in front of a check for $2000, posing for a picture.

 

P-H-M parents and P-H-M Education Foundation supporters Jason and Darla Lippert established the Jeneane Arter Excellence in Teaching Award is named after current Northpoint Elementary 2nd grade teacher Jeneane Arter. Any teacher is eligible for the award. Recipients receive $2,000, a gift from the Lippert Family.

Past Honorees include:

  • 2025: Emily Williams, Meadow’s Edge Elementary School
  • 2024: Brianne Roy, Schmucker Middle School
  • 2023: Lisa Graves, Grissom Middle School
  • 2022: Derrick Fairbotham, Penn High School
  • 2021: Alexandra Banks, Mary Frank Elementary School
  • 2019: Robi Davidson, Walt Disney Elementary School
  • 2018:  Diane Bowersox, Penn High School 
  • 2017: Jeneane Arter, Northpoint Elementary School
Three people posing with a check in front of them in an office setting.
Woman presenting a check to two people in front of a classroom display. The check is from Phm Education Foundation and is
People posing around a check, celebrating an achievement in a classroom setting.
Woman presenting a check to two people in front of a classroom display. The check is from Phm Education Foundation and is
Three people standing in front of a large check. They are posing for a picture. The person on the left is holding a plaque.
People standing in a classroom, posing for a picture, with some holding papers and a book.
People in a classroom setting, standing around a table with papers on it, discussing something.
Two people standing in front of a check, smiling at the camera.
Woman in blue shirt standing at podium, holding clipboard, speaking to audience.
Two people standing in front of a check, smiling at the camera.
The group is posing in front of a check for $2000, an award for 1st place in the Arter competition.
The group is posing in front of a check for $2000, an award for 1st place in the Arter competition.
Two people posing with a large check in front of a classroom.
Two people posing with a large check in front of a classroom.
Three people standing in front of a large check. They are posing for a picture. The person on the left is holding a plaque.
Three people posing with a check in front of them in an office setting.
People standing in a classroom, posing for a picture, with some holding papers and a book.
Two men and a woman in a classroom setting, standing near a table with papers on it, discussing something.
People in a classroom setting, standing around a table with papers on it, discussing something.
People posing around a check, celebrating an achievement in a classroom setting.

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Martin Ufkin & Megan Buckler Win Spring 2026 Impact Award

Penn-Harris-Madison Schools is proud to recognize outstanding educators whose instruction leads to meaningful academic growth for students.

The P-H-M Teacher Impact Award celebrates the impact of strong instruction and student dedication. The award is presented each semester to teachers whose students demonstrate the greatest academic growth, highlighting excellence in teaching and learning across the district.

Superintendent Dr. Heather Short and Penn High School Principal Rachel Fry surprised two Penn teachers today in their classrooms to recognize their students’ significant growth:

Two people standing in front of a presentation screen, one holding an award, smiling and receiving recognition from another

  • Martin Ufkin’s English 11 students demonstrated exceptional academic growth from the PSAT/NMSQT in October to the SAT in March. An impressive 61% of his students showed measurable growth between the two assessments, the highest percentage among English 11 classes across the district.

  • Algebra II teacher Megan Buckler’s students also showed exceptional growth over that same period. An impressive 79% demonstrated measurable growth, the highest percentage among Algebra II classes across the district.

Thank you to the P-H-M Education Foundation for providing the beautiful engraved awards that the teachers keep in their classrooms as a reminder of what they and their students accomplished.

Click to see the Martin Ufkin photo gallery in Canto.

Click to see the Megan Buckler photo gallery in Canto.

Schafer Gear Works Robotics Lab Unveiled

This afternoon P-H-M and Penn High School Administration along with the P-H-M Education Foundation officially unveiled the updated entryway for Schafer Gear Works Robotics Lab at Penn High School. The lab is where Penn’s Robotics classes are held and Teams 135 (Black Knights) and 328 (Golden Rocks) work out of. Manufacturing and welding classes are also held in this area.

Schafer Industries donated $25,000 payable over 5 years to name the robotics lab as part of the P-H-M Education Foundation’s Naming Rights campaign.

Schafer Gear Works Penn Robotics Lab logoPenn Robotics and Penn Graphic Design students designed the graphic that features Schafer’s name on the garage door entry to the lab.

Teachers and students gathered with representatives from P-H-M, PHMEF, Penn and Schafer Industries were on hand to celebrate the newly named Schafer Gear Works Robotics Lab.

  • Schafer Gear Works: Eric Van Rens (CEO); Paresh Shah (Director of Operations); Mike Lashure (VP of Sales); Alex Beagles (Production Manager); Barb Shklar (Director of HR); and Kelly Lowry (HR Manager)
  • P-H-M Board Members: Vice President Ryan McCollough, Secretary Dana Sullivan, and Member Jen Smoker
  • P-H-M Administration: Superintendent Dr. Heather Short, Chief Operating Officer Dr. Sean Galiher, and Asst. Superintendent Dr. Lavon Dean-Null
  • PHM Education Foundation: Executive Director Jennifer Turnblom; and Board Members: Kelli Collins, Allison Laidig, and Kelly Weidner
  • Penn High School Administration: Asst. Principals Josiah Parker and Kristel Wheeler; along with Penn teachers Kyle Marsh (Robotics), Stephen Vincent (Robotics), and Scott Shellart (Welding & Manufacturing)
 
Group of people posing in front of a building with a sign that reads "PENN ROBOTICS" and a logo for Schaefer.
 

In alignment with PHMEF’s long-term sustainability model, the donation will be directed to the PHMEF Endowment, ensuring support for innovative projects in P-H-M schools for years to come. A portion of the funds will also be allocated specifically to support Penn Robotics, strengthening competitive robotics opportunities and hands-on STEM learning for students.

“This investment reflects the heart of PHMEF’s mission of building sustainable support for innovation in our schools. With an endowment now exceeding $1 million, we are able to ensure that philanthropic partnerships like this one continue to grow opportunity for students well into the future,” said Jennifer Turnblom, Executive Director of PHMEF.
Two young men in a workshop setting, one leaning against a workbench with a drill press in the background, and another
Penn High School Robotics students give tour to representatives from Schafer Gear Works

“Schafer is very excited to partner with Penn High School with this unique opportunity related to the Robotics Laboratory,” commented Eric Van Rens, CEO Schafer Gear Works. By providing this naming grant to the Penn High School Robotics Laboratory, we hope to help create meaningful opportunities for students to explore STEM activities, hands-on problem solving and touch technologies that are critical to the work force of tomorrow. Workforce development activities such as this are truly an investment in the future of American manufacturing and engineering.”

The PHMEF Naming Rights Campaign provides community partners with the opportunity to invest in student success while supporting the foundation’s long-term mission through the endowment, grants, and programmatic support across the district.
 
 

Penn Spanish Teacher Surprised as 2026 Secondary Teacher of the Year

Kelly Watts hugs student after winning P-H-M 2026 Secondary Teacher of the Year What started as a typical first block this morning in Señora Kelley Watts’ Spanish IV class quickly turned into a surprise party when Spanish teacher Kelley Watts unexpectedly learned that she was being named Penn-Harris-Madison’s 2026 Secondary Teacher of the Year.

With some behind-the-scenes planning by Principal Rachel Fry and Associate Principal Jeanie Mitchell, Watts was called away from her classroom for what she thought was a photo opp with students in Penn’s Main Arena–on the other side of the building away from her classroom. While Watts was being kept busy, P-H-M Superintendent Dr. Heather Short, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Lavon Dean-Null, other P-H-M administrators, and local TV station news crews snuck into Watts’ classroom to get everything in place for the big surprise. Click to see a photo gallery below. Click here to see the full gallery on Canto.

When Watts returned, she was met with applause, cameras, and the big news that she was P-H-M’s  Secondary Teacher of the Year.

Click below to watch the video of the surprise for Señora Watts.

Throughout her career, Watts has demonstrated a deep commitment to student learning, leadership, and building meaningful connections both inside and outside the classroom. She brings 30 years of teaching experience, including 22 years at Penn High School. In addition to her classroom role, Watts has led student initiatives, including serving as the Kingsmen Against Cancer sponsor for more than eight years. 

She serves as an instructional coach and is an active leader in the P-H-M Teachers Association, where she advocates for both students and staff. As a mentor to fellow educators, she is an example of continuous growth and collaboration. She also serves alongside her husband, Mark, as co-head coach of the Boys Volleyball team, now in its second season. Click here to read a recent article in the South Bend Tribune, featuring the Watts’, about the growth and rise in popularity of boys volleyball as a new IHSAA sanctioned sport.

Kelley Watts and Eric Bowers smiling. Bowers pointing at WattsTeaching and coaching colleague Eric Bowers nominated Watts for the honor. Bowers understands firsthand what it takes to excel in both the classroom and in athletics. Bowers, an AP History teacher and Penn’s Boys and Girls Tennis coach was named P-H-M’s 2023 Secondary Teacher of the Year.

“Kelley has a unique ability to connect with students not only in the classroom, but through opportunities like Spanish Club [which she led in previous years] and now through coaching as well,” Bowers said. “She reaches a wide range of students and creates meaningful relationships that extend beyond the school day.”

Known for her engaging and supportive teaching style, Watts creates learning environments where students feel confident to take risks and grow. One example is her Spanish II “Yelp Review” writing unit, where students progress from foundational language skills to composing six-paragraph essays entirely in Spanish.

“My favorite level of Spanish to teach is Level 2. When they enter my class, they have made the choice to continue learning Spanish, which already reflects a level of commitment,” Watts reflected. “Level 2 of any language is often the most challenging, and I enjoy pushing students to reach levels of learning and understanding that they initially believe are beyond their capabilities.”

Kelley Watts with her Spanish IV students after winning PHM's 2026 Secondary Teacher of the YearWatts has created educational opportunities for her Penn Spanish students to engage in authentic conversations, build global connections, and apply their language skills in real-world settings. Through a month-long cultural exchange experience, she brought Ecuadorian students studying in the United States to Penn to spend several weeks alongside her students, immersing the international students in English instruction and American culture, while also giving her students the opportunity to learn directly from native Spanish speakers and experience authentic cultural exchange.

Principal Rachel Fry said Watts exemplifies the very best of Penn High School.

“Kelley Watts represents what it means to be an exceptional educator,” Fry said. “She builds strong relationships with students, challenges them to achieve at high levels, and creates meaningful learning experiences that extend far beyond the classroom. Her leadership and commitment to excellence make a lasting impact on our entire school community.”

Watts’ love for language has permeated down to benefit P-H-M’s elementary and middle school students as well. Watts was involved in the creation of P-H-M’s Summer Visual Arts Academy, a week-long summer enrichment program that integrates music, art, and culture. One of the first years the VAA included Spanish language instruction, for which Watts helped develop the curriculum. She’s also been involved with the district’s summer week-long Language Academy camps for elementary and middle school students, with a different language featured each year.

Superintendent Dr. Heather Short has seen the impact Watts has on students over the years.

Kelly Watts teaching Spanish to her students“Kelley’s impact is felt across our entire district,” Dr. Short said. “She is deeply committed to helping students at every level develop a love of language and culture, and she creates meaningful learning experiences that inspire curiosity and connection in all of our learners.” 

Every Spring P-H-M honors a Secondary Teacher of the Year, Elementary Teacher of the Year and a Certified Employee of the Year. All three honorees are officially recognized at P-H-M’s annual Employee Recognition & Retiree Dinner, which will be held this year on Wednesday, May 20th. The two Teachers of the Year will then go on to compete for Indiana’s Teacher of the Year, which will be announced Fall 2026 by the Indiana Department of Education. The PHM Education Foundation awards each Teacher of the Year a $1,000 grant and gift card to the Employee of the Year.

Penn Associate Principal Jeanie Mitchell Named to Michiana Forty Under 40

Penn High School Associate Principal Jeanie Mitchell has been named to the 2026 Michiana Forty Under 40 class, an honor presented by the South Bend Regional Chamber every year recognizing emerging leaders across the region.

The annual award highlights individuals under the age of 40 who demonstrate professional excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to their communities. Honorees are selected based on career achievement, initiative, and meaningful service to others throughout the Michiana area.

Mrs. Mitchell’s career in education reflects a consistent focus on student success and continuous improvement. She began her journey at Penn High School as a student teacher before being hired as a French teacher in 2008. During her time in the classroom, she earned recognition as the Penn-Harris-Madison Secondary Teacher of the Year in 2019 and was later named a Top 10 Finalist for the 2020 Indiana Teacher of the Year.

Mrs. Mitchell is known for creating engaging and immersive learning experiences for her students. She brought global perspectives into her classroom by organizing international travel opportunities for students and coordinating cultural learning experiences closer to home.

Her leadership expanded beyond the classroom as she took on roles supporting school-wide systems and staff development. As Assistant Principal overseeing Penn’s Freshman Academy, Mrs. Mitchell helped strengthen the transition from middle school to high school. Her work refining the school’s Response to Intervention (RTI) framework contributed to strong student outcomes, including a ninth-grade on-track rate of 97.3% and an overall graduation rate exceeding 98%.

Mrs. Mitchell has also played a key role in supporting educators through her work as a Professional Development Coordinator and Instructional Coach. Her expertise in literacy strategies, educational technology, and data-driven decision-making has helped teachers enhance their instructional practices and improve student learning.

In 2023, Mrs. Mitchell was part of the leadership team that helped Penn earn the Indiana Department of Education’s Excellence in College Readiness Award, along with a $250,000 grant to support college and career readiness initiatives. That same year, Penn was also recognized as a Cognia School of Distinction.

She transitioned into her current role as Associate Principal in January 2026, continuing to lead with a focus on collaboration, growth, and student-centered decision-making.

Mrs. Mitchell’s selection to the Michiana 40 Under 40 class reflects her dedication to education, her investment in others, and her ongoing commitment to strengthening the school community.

 
 

Parent Graduation Information Letter

A poster for the Penn High School Class of 2026 Commencement.

The purpose of this information is twofold: to provide information regarding upcoming senior activities and to request your assistance in ensuring that all graduation events reflect the dignity, solemnity, and significance of the honors earned by the Class of 2026.

Please note on the day of commencement, Monday, June 8th, the doors for students to enter Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center will be open at 4:30 p.m. Seniors are to enter at Gate 3 and report to the field house at the Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center by 4:45 p.m. Seniors arriving after 5 p.m. will not be in alphabetical order and may be required to be seated at the end of the line or may even be excluded from commencement.

Find links for important Graduation information on the following topics below:

 

Please remember that participation in graduation is a privilege, not a requirement. Students are expected to adhere to the established dress code and behavioral standards. Appropriate attire under the cap and gown for young men includes a collared dress shirt, slacks, dark-colored socks, and dress shoes. Young women should wear dresses or dress pantsuits with dress shoes or dress sandals. Please note that high heels are worn at the student’s own risk, as stairs and extended walking are involved. Sandals (casual), tennis/basketball shoes, work boots, or similar footwear are not permitted. We respectfully request your support in helping us enforce these expectations.

CAPS AND GOWNS

Caps and gowns will be distributed to seniors on April 28th and 29th in the Auxiliary Gym during all blocks. If your senior does not pick up his/her cap and gown at that time, they may pick them up at their earliest convenience in the Main Office. Please have your student try on the cap and gown before graduation. If either does not fit, please contact Jostens at 574-216-6336. All Penn graduation caps and gowns are black.

ELKHART AREA CAREER CENTER

Seniors attending the Elkhart Area Career Center will continue to attend until their final day at the Career Center, May 29th, unless they have other obligations that require them to complete specific course requirements. Bus transportation will remain the same.

SENIOR ANNOUNCEMENTS

Announcements will be distributed to students on April 28th and 29th  in the Auxiliary Gym, during all blocks. If your senior does not pick up his/her announcements at that time, please stop by the Main Office; all unclaimed items will be available for pick up. 

COMMENCEMENT INFORMATION

Seniors will be given commencement information and directions in meetings on April 28th and 29th. The meetings will be held at the beginning of every period in the Penn High School Auxiliary Gym. If your student does not have a study hall or dismissal period, they must make arrangements with a teacher to attend one of the meetings. Please make every effort to have your senior attend to hear this important information. Full-time Night School and Pennway seniors should plan to attend a meeting at Penn on the previously mentioned dates.

SENIOR RECOGNITION PROGRAM

The Senior Recognition Program will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Penn High School EOS-Tania Bengtsson Center for Performing Arts (CPA) by invitation only. Seniors who will be receiving awards will be notified by mail that they will be recognized and should report to the Cafeteria by 5:45 p.m. on May 11th  (through Door A & D) for seating and final instructions. Seniors are to wear their gowns (no caps), any stoles, cords, or medals received by the Main Office, and appropriate attire to the Recognition Program. Appropriate attire under the gown will be a dress shirt, slacks, dark-colored socks, and dress shoes for young men. Dresses or dress pants are appropriate for young women. Dress shoes or dress sandals for young women will be expected. Casual sandals, tennis/basketball shoes, work boots, or similar footwear will not be allowed.

SENIOR FINAL EXAMS

The schedule for senior final exams will be as follows:

Thursday, May 28, Blocks 2 & 4 Gold

Friday, May 29, Blocks 2 & 4 Black

Monday, June 1, Blocks 1 & 3 Gold

Tuesday, June 2, Blocks 1 & 3 Black

SENIORS IN DANGER OF FAILING

Seniors who fail a required course for graduation will be notified by the Counseling Center and will be enrolled in class(es) for summer school.

GRADUATION REHEARSAL

Commencement-related information will be given to seniors when they meet with administrators on April 28th and April 29th, 2026. The arrangement of facilities at the University of Notre Dame will allow us the opportunity to practice and go over last-minute details on the day of commencement, just before the formal activities on June 8,  2026. 

On the day of commencement, Monday, June 8th, the doors for students to enter Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center will be open at 4:30 p.m. Seniors are to enter at Gate 3 and report to the field house at the Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center by 4:45 p.m. Seniors arriving after 5 p.m. will not be in alphabetical order and may be required to be seated at the end of the line or may even be excluded from commencement. Seniors are required to wear their caps and gowns and to have appropriate attire under their caps and gowns. Those who do not comply with the standard of dress that is outlined earlier in this letter will not be allowed to participate. Also, no decorations on the caps and gowns will be allowed.

Seniors are asked to refrain from bringing valuables to commencement. Please bring only those necessary items that you will need at graduation. Sunglasses, cell phones, gifts, hangers, food, or drinks will not be allowed. Girls may bring a small handbag/purse. Penn High School and/or Notre Dame are not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Parents and guests are to enter through the south main entrance of the Purcell Pavilion between Gates 8 and 10. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Handicapped facilities are available throughout the Joyce Center. 

DIPLOMAS

Students may pick up their diplomas beginning Monday, June 29, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., continuing throughout the remainder of the summer. Pickup will take place in the Main Office, accessible through Door A. 

2026 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY

Commencement, the most solemn of all graduation activities, will be held on June 8, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. Tickets are not required for the commencement. A map of the Notre Dame campus is available on the Penn High School website at the following link: map.nd.edu. The parking map will be available on the Penn High School website at this link: penn.phmschools.org/commencement-information. Please note there will be no shuttle service, not even from the Bulla Lot or Innovation Parking Lot. Seniors, parents, guardians, friends, and relatives are asked to refrain from activities that would detract from the dignity of this most important occasion. Disruptive noise, noisemakers, or inappropriate behavior by your senior or their guests may cause unnecessary embarrassment and detract from the experience of others who wish to enjoy a respectful and dignified ceremony. Seniors who behave in a disruptive or inappropriate manner will be removed from participation. Individuals who disrupt the ceremony will be escorted from the Purcell Pavilion.

Parents should make prior arrangements as to where to meet their seniors after the graduation ceremonies have ended. Please do not interrupt the procession as the graduates exit the Joyce Center. The graduates will be released to meet with family and friends after re-entering the field house.

Notre Dame requires all purses/bags to be searched before entering the arena. Backpacks, totes, and duffel bags are not allowed. A list of prohibited items includes alcohol, animals (Service dogs are permitted), artificial noisemakers (including whistles), cameras with lenses longer than six (6) inches, cans or glass bottles (including aerosols), drones or unmanned aerial systems (UAS), fireworks or explosives, food or beverage (except unopened plastic water bottles), GoPro or selfie sticks, laser or pen pointers, signs, banners, and balloons, stadium chairs or seat backs (unless medical reason with documentation), strollers, water vessels of any kind, Use of tobacco products and e-cigarettes, use or possession of marijuana, and other illegal drugs, weapons/firearms, any other items deemed dangerous or inappropriate. WEAPONS OF ANY KIND ARE PROHIBITED ON CAMPUS. Food is allowed as a medical necessity with proof.

HEARING IMPAIRED SERVICES

For family members who are hearing impaired, interpreters will be located on the left side of the arena, near the choir students. A limited number of reserved seats will also be available in Section 13.

PHOTOS

Diploma photos available for purchase: Inter-State Photography will be positioned to take individual pictures of seniors with their diplomas.  Every student will be photographed, and all photographs will be available for purchase on a password protected website. This link will NOT be active until after the ceremony and Inter-State has uploaded the photos and activated the website gallery. When the photos are ready, a notification will be sent to you via ParentSquare to inform you that the link is active. 

cpinterstatestudio.shootproof.com/2026PennCommencement
Password: PHS2026514  

NO ONE EXCEPT SCHOOL PERSONNEL WILL BE ALLOWED ON THE ARENA FLOOR TO TAKE PICTURES.

P-H-M/Penn staff take some candid photos before and during the ceremony; they do not take a picture of every student. The P-H-M/Penn photo link is different from the Inter-State Photography link shared above.  

P-H-M/Penn’s free Class of 2026 Photo Portal is: https://phmexcellence.com/PhotosClassof2026

This portal contains photos from all end of school year senior events from the PLTW White Coat Ceremony through Commencement. The Commencement pictures will be uploaded by Friday, June 12. A ParentSquare message will be sent to Senior families and students when the portal has been updated.

LIVESTREAM

A livestream of the ceremony will be accessible at this link: penn.phmschools.org/2026-commencement-live-stream

SENIOR PARADE AND BREAKFAST

On June 3rd and 4th, seniors will be visiting their former elementary schools and inspiring our elementary students to celebrate graduation and to thank their teachers who have helped them achieve this goal. A light breakfast will be served beginning at 8:45 a.m. in the CPA Lobby before the parades start. More information will be shared at the Senior Meeting on April 28th & 29th.

SENIOR SUNRISE BREAKFAST

Mark your calendars for May 22 at 6 a.m.! Kingsmen Court will be sponsoring a Senior Sunrise Breakfast on the football field near the concession stand. Coffee and donuts will be provided, and fun activities are planned. The event will run from 6:00 to 8:00 a.m.

PARTICIPATION IN ACTIVITIES

You and your senior should be aware that participation in any or all of the activities described in this letter is voluntary. You have the right to choose not to participate.

It is our strong desire that this year’s commencement activities reflect the pride and distinction with which we hope the Class of 2026 will be remembered. Students who choose to violate school rules not only jeopardize their academic success but also risk disciplinary action. Any student subject to disciplinary consequences may have their diploma withheld until those consequences have been fully satisfied. We appreciate your support in encouraging your senior to demonstrate responsible academic and behavioral conduct through commencement and the remainder of the school year. Your cooperation in helping your student adhere to the expectations outlined in this letter is both needed and appreciated. If you have any questions regarding commencement activities, please contact my administrative secretary, Brenda Chaffee, who oversees all commencement planning. Mrs. Chaffee can be reached at bchaffee@phm.k12.in.us.

2026 Commencement Information

 

This is a photograph of an indoor graduation ceremony in progress.

Penn High School’s Class of 2026 Commencement Ceremony will be held at 7 p.m., Monday, June 8, 2026, at Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. Doors open for parents at 5:30 p.m.

There is no ticket requirement—meaning families are not limited on the amount of attendees. Click here for Commencement LiveStream info for friends and family not in attendance.

Please note on the day of commencement, Monday, June 8th, the doors for students to enter Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center will be open at 4:30 p.m. Seniors are to enter at Gate 3 and report to the field house at the Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center by 4:45 p.m. Seniors arriving after 5 p.m. will not be in alphabetical order and may be required to be seated at the end of the line or may even be excluded from commencement.

For more information and guidelines for Commencement are detailed in the Parent Information Letter 2026.

GRADUATION GUIDELINES

Seniors are required to wear their caps and gowns and to have appropriate attire under their caps and gowns. Those who do not comply with the standard of dress that is outlined earlier in this letter will not be allowed to participate. Also, no decorations on the caps and gowns will be allowed.

Seniors are asked to refrain from bringing valuables to commencement. Please bring only those necessary items that you will need at graduation. Sunglasses, cell phones, gifts, hangers, food, or drinks will not be allowed.

Girls may bring a small handbag/purse. Penn High School and/or Notre Dame are not responsible for lost or stolen items.

On the day of Commencement, the doors for students to enter Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center will be open at 4:30 p.m.

Seniors are to enter at Gate 3 and report to the field house at the Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center by 4:45 p.m. Seniors arriving after 5 p.m. will not be in alphabetical order and may be required to be seated at the end of the line or may even be excluded from commencement. 

PHOTOS

Inter-State Photography will be positioned to take individual pictures of seniors with their diplomas.  Every student will be photographed, and all photographs will be available for purchase on a password protected website. The website is https://cpinterstatestudio.shootproof.com/2026PennCommencement.

Password:  PHS2026514. This link will NOT be active until after the ceremony and Inter-State has uploaded the photos and activated the website gallery. When the photos are ready, a notification will be sent to you via ParentSquare to inform you that the link is active.  NO ONE EXCEPT SCHOOL PERSONNEL WILL BE ALLOWED ON THE ARENA FLOOR TO TAKE PICTURES.

P-H-M staff take some candid photos before and during the ceremony; they do not take a picture of every student. The PHM/Penn photo link is different from the Inter-State Photography link.

CLICK HERE for a map with parking information for Notre Dame.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

  • Alcohol

  • Artificial NoiseMakers

  • Backpacks, Duffel Bags, or Tote Bags

  • Balloons (Helium)

  • Drones or Unmanned Aerial Systems

  • Explosives or Fireworks

  • Food or Beverages  (Food Is Allowed As A Medical Necessity With Proof) 

  • GoPro

  • Large Containers or Coolers

  • Lasers or Pen Pointers

  • Money Bouquets, Money Leis, or Other Gifts with High Monetary Value

  • Projectors and Projection Devices

  • Selfie Sticks

  • Signs, Banners, or Flags

  • Smoking, Tobacco, or E-Cigarettes

  • Tailgating

  • The Throwing of Any Object at Any Time

  • Weapons of Any Kind

  • Any Item Deemed Dangerous or Inappropriate

Commencement Parking

Parking map of Notre Dame for the Penn High School graduation 2026 showing parking lots and facilities.