News

Superintendent Dr. Jerry Thacker Receives Several Honors Upon Retirement

Walt Disney Elementary Celebrates First Annual Dr. Jerry Thacker Achievement Award

This morning, Dr. Jerry Thacker visited Walt Disney Elementary to help present the inaugural Dr. Jerry Thacker Achievement Award. The award, named in honor of Dr. Thacker’s retirement after 19 years of service as Penn-Harris-Madison’s superintendent, recognizes students who exemplify persistence, good citizenship, and positive competitiveness—qualities that Dr. Thacker has demonstrated throughout his tenure. In its first year, the award was given to four students ...
Dr. Jerry Thacker, Dr. Heather Short, & Chris Riley

Dr. Heather Short Approved as New Superintendent

In a special meeting held Tuesday, May 27, the Penn-Harris-Madison Board of School Trustees unanimously (7-0) approved the appointment of Dr. Heather Short as the district’s next superintendent effective July 1, 2025. Nearly 50 P-H-M teachers, administrators, staff, family and friends showed up to express their overwhelming support of Dr. Short's appointment. Dr. Short, a lifelong educator who has dedicated her entire 31-year career to ...
Culture Night Participants

Walt Disney Elementary Hosts Annual Culture Night Celebration

Click Here for FULL Photo Gallery _ Walt Disney Elementary School recently welcomed families and community members for its annual Culture Night, a celebration of the many backgrounds and traditions represented throughout the school. Families hosted tables showcasing food, clothing, and traditions from their home countries. Attendees had the opportunity to sample traditional dishes, explore cultural displays, and learn more about the customs and stories ...
Penn students singing in Sponge Bob

P-H-M Named 2025 Best Community for Music Education

For the 12th consecutive year, Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation was named among the 2025’s Best Communities for Music Education (​BCME) in the country by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation! P-H-M has received this recognition more than any other school district in Indiana! This year NAMM has named 935 school districts as the nation's Best Communities for Music Education, and P-H-M is one of ...
2025 Running is Elementary Results & Photo Gallery

2025 Running is Elementary Results & Photo Gallery

The annual one mile run for P-H-M fourth and fifth graders is held at Penn’s Cross-country course, which is located behind Elm Road Elementary School. The race is sponsored by P-H-M’s Education Foundation, This event encourages fitness, healthy choices and wellness. Fourth and fifth graders, from all 11 P-H-M elementary schools are encouraged to sign up for the free running club. Designated coaches at each ...