Pville Community Connection: October Highlights

October 15, 2025

Dear Pleasantville Families, 

October has always been a month of connection and celebration. It’s when classrooms find their rhythm, students shine on and off the field, and our community comes together to support their success. From student achievements and creative learning opportunities to collaborative planning for the future of our facilities, this month reminds us of what makes Pleasantville so special: our shared commitment to learning, belonging, and continuous improvement. 

Celebrating Student Achievement and Growth 

Individual state test score reports are available to families through eSchool, offering insight into student progress and areas for continued growth. 

Congratulations to our 15 Pleasantville High School students recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program, including semifinalist Sara Agabob! This is the largest group of students recognized by the program in over a decade. 

Across all schools, students are engaging in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences, including recent field trips to the Wolf Conservation Center (BRS) and Sharpe Reservation (PMS). 

Engaged, Creative, and Connected 

At Bedford Road School, students marked Fire Prevention Week with a visit from the Pleasantville Fire Department and continue to practice kindness and teamwork through the Refresh Recess program. 

Last month, sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students took part in the first-ever Sources of Strength Peer Leadership Training, supported by Pleasantville STRONG. Now active at both the Middle and High Schools, this program reflects our shared commitment to reducing stigma, raising awareness, and making mental health an everyday conversation. 

At the High School, a lively Club Fair introduced students to dozens of activities and interest-based groups, highlighting how Panthers learn, lead, and connect beyond the classroom. 

Homecoming Week Builds Panther Pride 

From themed spirit days and hallway decorations to the pep rally, senior dinner, bonfire, and pancake breakfast, Homecoming 2025 was a true celebration of Panther Pride.  

Special thanks to our Student Government, staff, coaches, and families for helping bring these traditions to life. It was a wonderful first Homecoming weekend in Pleasantville and a perfect reminder of the togetherness that defines this community. 

Digital Citizenship Week 

Pleasantville Schools will celebrate Digital Citizenship Week (Oct 20-24), a time to help students make thoughtful, safe, and balanced choices online. Lessons and activities across all schools will focus on digital wellness, online responsibility, and media balance. 

Families are also invited to two special evening events designed to spark conversation and connection: 

🎬 Special Screening: Can’t Look Away
Monday, October 20 • 7:00 PM • Jacob Burns Film Center
A powerful documentary exploring the impact of social media on young people, followed by a panel discussion with the filmmakers and journalist who inspired the film.
Use promo code UNPLUG2025 for member pricing at checkout. 

🎤 Digital Wellness Speaker: Dr. Devorah Heitner
Thursday, October 23 • 7:00 PM • PHS Auditorium
Join nationally recognized author Dr. Devorah Heitner (Growing Up in Public, Screenwise) for an engaging talk on raising kids in a digital world.
Admission is free — all parents and guardians are encouraged to attend. 

CLICK HERE to RSVP on ParentSquare 

Pleasantville Forward,Together: Planning for the Future 

Thank you to everyone who joined our Community Forum on September 29 to share ideas about Pleasantville’s facilities planning work. (Click to view video.) 

The Community Facilities Committee (CFC) met on October 9 to continue this important work, with subcommittees focusing on Fields & Lights, STEAM, and BRS Outdoor Spaces. 

Together, these groups are developing recommendations that will inform the proposed Capital Project vote on May 19, 2026, reflecting our shared commitment to creating learning environments that support every student’s growth, well-being, and future success. 

Stay tuned for updates on upcoming community engagement sessions as planning continues. 

As you may have heard, October is National Principals Month, and I want to take this opportunity to recognize our outstanding school leaders — Joe Palumbo, Adam Chagares, and Rachel Hunger — for their dedication, compassion, and steady leadership. This week also marks School Board Recognition Week, a time to thank our Board of Education members for their unwavering commitment to our students, staff, and community. Together, their efforts make Pleasantville Schools a place where every Panther can thrive. 

Warmly, 

Eric Lutinski