Spotlight on Discovery Middle School
Principal Elizabeth Cunha welcomed the Board of School Trustees to Discovery on Monday, May 19. A welcoming, warm reception awaited Board members, P-H-M Administrators, patrons and families as they arrived. In the lobby, the student orchestra performed while “StarBuddies” offered free coffee!
When the Board Meeting began, Principal Cunha explained the “StarBuddies” program and shared that recently the Discovery Band earned the ISSMA J.M.E. All-Music Award for 2024-2025, along with highlight many other student achievements. Click here to view Principal Cunha’s presentation.
Eighth grade Students Alice and Julie Zhang talked about their participation in MathCounts; and Abhijay Masetty, who placed 1st place in the state, talked about his competition in the National History Day Competition. It was very clear that “Archers Aim High!”
The presentation ended with Principal Cunha and two student representatives giving Superintendent Dr. Jerry Thacker student-made “Thank You” cards for his years of service to the district. Dr. Thacker announced his retirement at the end of this school year back in March.
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 them! The award program recognizes and celebrates outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education. Designations are made to districts that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment to and access to music education.
In P-H-M elementary schools, music class is part of the regular curriculum following state standards. Students are instructed in both vocal and instrument classes. Beginning in 6th grade, P-H-M students at our three middle schools (Discovery, Schmucker and Grissom) have the opportunity to choose choir, orchestra or band as their music elective. Students at Discovery also have the option of choosing Piano Lab. Schools from elementary all the way up to Penn High School also perform musicals.
Penn High School offers the Fine Arts & Communication Academy as part of its unique academy structure. The seven academy design provides Penn students with relevant and meaningful coursework taught in smaller, supportive environments where each student is known well by his teacher and peers. Nearly a third of Penn’s total 3,500 students are enrolled in the Fine Arts Academy with the majority being involved with music programs, either Choir, Orchestra, Band or another music program.
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, P-H-M answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas. Research into music education continues to demonstrate educational/cognitive and social skill benefits for children who make music.
In a series of landmark studies by scientists and researchers at Northwestern University a link was found between students in community music programs and life-long academic success, including higher high school graduation rates and college attendance. In another study from the University, it was discovered that the benefits of early exposure to music education improves how the brain processes and assimilates sounds, a trait that lasts well into adulthood. Beyond the Northwestern research, other studies have indicated that music education lays the foundation for individual excellence in group settings, creative problem solving and flexibility in work situations, as well learning how to give and receive constructive criticism to excel.
Mr. Cornelison Named VFW District 3 Teacher of the Year
Discovery Middle School is proud to announce that in late March 7th grade Social Studies teacher Les Cornelison was named the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Teacher of the Year for Indiana’s District 3 for 2025. The award recognizes exceptional educators who instill the values of civic responsibility, patriotism, and service in their students.
Mr. Cornelison, unaware he had even been nominated, was humbled to receive the news. He credits fellow educator Ryan Towner for submitting the nomination that led to the recognition. “I am very honored to be thought of in this manner,” Les shared.
Each year, the VFW selects one teacher from each state district for this distinction. Winners receive a stipend for both professional development and classroom resources. As the District 3 honoree, Mr. Cornelison is now eligible for consideration at the state and national levels.
Les Cornelison’s life has been a journey of service. He began in the United States Marine Corps from 1990-1994.
Following his military service, Les transitioned into the fire service, rising through the ranks from firefighter to Fire Captain and ultimately Fire Chief with both the Penn Township and Osceola Fire Departments. While working, he pursued his MBA part-time at IU South Bend.
He later served as a U.S. Diplomat in locations including China, the Philippines, Washington D.C., and Afghanistan. After retiring in 2020 and overcoming a spinal injury, Les found a new path in education—bringing decades of real-world experience into his classroom.
“My biggest drive is I want to be adding value to my students,” said Les. “I have my pension. I don’t need to work, but I want to give back and help develop a love of learning in my students.”
We congratulate Mr. Cornelison on this well-deserved honor and thank him for his continued dedication to serving others, both in and out of the classroom!
Along with earning the Transition to Teaching licensure, Mr. Cornelison earned two other degrees from IUSB: Bachelors of Science in Economics, Statistics Concentration and a Masters of Business Management and Administration. You can read more about what led Mr. Cornelison to transition into education.
Summer P-H-M Academies & Camps
The last day of school for the 2024-2025 school year is Thursday, June 5, 2025. But your child’s education does not have to end, and should not. Research shows students may lose two or more months’ worth of reading achievement, a month or more of spelling learning skills and about 2 months’ worth of grade level equivalency in mathematical computation skills during their summer break.
That’s why P-H-M offers a wide variety of activities over the summer from District enrichment camps to Penn athletic camps, as well as opportunities for students to improve their academic skills in Summer School. The enrichment academies are offered through P-H-M’s Learning Division and are FREE! We believe that children’s summer break can be fun while also giving students the academic boost they need.
Listed below are some of the activities available to P-H-M students and children in the greater community this summer. Parents are responsible for transportation unless otherwise noted. Not all camps are open to students who do not attend P-H-M schools, so please read the qualifications for each camp carefully. Click here for a listing of non-PHM community organizations that also offer summer camps activities.
Please Note: Camp Availability Subject to Change
Enrichment Academies
- Visual Arts Academy (July 14 – 18, July 21 – 25, or July 28 – Aug 1, 2025)
In this award-winning one-week academy, current P-H-M Kindergarten – 5th grade students learn art history, art production and writing through a unique integration program. The program is based at Schmucker Middle School and in collaboration with the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art. Families may select the week that is most convenient for all of their children to attend, regardless of their grade. The program is FREE of charge. Click here to register.
- Junior STEM Academy
In this one-week academy, current P-H-M Kindergarten – 5th graders will discover how math and science are applied in the real world. Each week is reserved for specific grades and will be held at Schmucker Middle School. The program is FREE of charge. Click here to register.- Kindergarten and 1st grade attend the week of July 28 – Aug 1
- 2nd and 3rd grade attend the week of July 21 – 25
- 4th and 5th grade attend the week of July 14 – 18
- Junior Foreign Language Academy (July 14 – 18)
This academy integrates the Spanish language, social studies, culture, visual arts and music into an intensive and enriching learning experience. The one-week camp is held at Schmucker Middle School and is open to current P-H-M 3rd, 4th or 5th grade students. The program is FREE of charge. Click here to register. - Learn a Foreign Language Academy (June 16 – 27)
This two-week academy is open to current P-H-M 6th and 7th graders. The course will be taught by Penn High School Language teachers who will teach the students how to read, write, and speak in German. The program is FREE of charge. Click here to register.
Penn Summer Camps
- Kingsmen Athletic Camps: Penn coaches and members of the P-H-M faculty offer a wide variety of sports camps from cheerleading to wrestling. The camps are open to current students in grades K-8 (most are open to all children in the community). There is a cost for these camps. Click here to see the full listing on Penn’s website.
- Penn Construction Camp (June 9 – 13)
Penn High School is offering a week-long construction camp to educate students about their opportunities while engaging them in fun, hands-on activities. Camps happen in two-hour sessions throughout the day. Each participating student will complete fun builds to keep and bring home, participate in group work, and receive real-life information about the variety of jobs in construction. A maximum of 30 students per time session. Open to elementary and junior high students. Penn is working with Build Your Future Indiana to acquire funding so we can make this camp available at no cost to our students. More Information, including registration to be announced.
- Penn Robotics Summer Camp: June 10-13, 2025 & June 16-20: Cost varies per session
There are two sessions. The Sessions and times are broken down by grade levels. Depending on their age and experience level. Students will get to work with Legos, 3D modeling, coding, along with getting hands-on experience with fabrication, prototyping and building an actual robot with VEX IQ! All camps are facilitated by Penn Robotics instructors and Penn’s Robotics Teams 135 & 328. There is a cost for these camps. Click here to do online registration through the Penn Robotics website.
- PNN Media Summer Camp (June 16 – 19) $50 per camper, cost includes T-Shirt and Reporters Notebook:
Campers will learn how to gather news and create a live broadcast. A focus will be given on learning how to write, shoot, edit and produce news stories. We will focus on learning how to tell impactful stories. More Information, including registration to be announced.
- Penn Speech & Debate Camp (June 23 – 28) $50 per campter, cost includes T-Shirt
For students who are in current grades 5-8. Students will learn public speaking etiquette, how to define key terms in the resolution, basic format for debate, effective strategies for creating an argument and pointing out flawed logic. Debaters argue either for or against the resolution and must be prepared to speak on both sides. Students will learn strategies for effective cross-examination and questioning. The camp concludes on June 28th with Tournament Day! Click here for information and to register.
Opportunities through P-H-M Community Education – Click for Full Brochure
Community Education classes are open to any student in the community; the child does not need to be a P-H-M student or live within the District to be eligible.
Learn to Swim Classes: (Penn High School, Session I: June 16-27, 2025; Session II: July 7-18, 2025; Session III: July 21-August 1, 2025)
All three sessions are 10 classes at the Penn High School pool. Classes are 30 minutes each and take place both in the morning and afternoon with 8 different class times to pick from. Children must be at least 4-years-old and potty trained. The cost is $50 per child, per two-week session. Click for more details.
Camp Invention (Northpoint Elementary School – June 23-27, 2025)
A one-week STEM enrichment program for students entering Grades K – 6 who want to put their hands and minds to building solutions. Camp will be held Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. It will be based at Northpoint Elementary School. The cost is about $280 depending on when you register. Click here to register and pay online through the Camp Invention website.
Super Kids Camp (June 23-27, 2025: Horizon; July 14-18, 2025: Northpoint; July 21-25, 2025 Bittersweet)
Students entering Grades 1- 6 will experience an engaging rotation of science, music, art and fitness activities in this half-day camp. Camp hours are 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at three locations. The cost is $50 per child per camp. Click for more details.
Youth Theater Camp at Elsie Rogers Elementary(Session I: June 16-20, 2025; Session II: July 21-25, 2025)
A one-week creative and expressive experience for students entering Grades 5 – 8. Pick one of these weeks for your child to attend. The half-day camp is offered 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The cost is $90 and includes a t-shirt. Click for more details.
Summer Kids Club (June 9th – August 15th)
Full-day childcare will be offered for current P-H-M students in grades K-5. Children will enjoy a variety of educational and recreational activities, crafts and field trips. Click for more details and online registration.
Summer School Information
P-H-M will conduct two Summer School sessions prior to the start of the 2025-2026 school year. Current P-H-M students who need the academic boost from summer instruction will receive invitations to attend. Penn High School students are able to take high school classes for credit in either summer session. Some students will work online to complete coursework and make up credits.
For elementary, middle and high school students, Summer School will be offered. Times vary depending on the program, please refer to the programs below.
ELEMENTARY Summer School (Grades K-4, June 12 – July 2)
- Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Meadow’s Edge and Moran Elementary School, breakfast & lunch provided, P-H-M Transportation available to students that live within PHM boundaries
MIDDLE SCHOOL SUMMER SCHOOL (Grades 5 – 7, June 12– July 2)
- Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Schmucker Middle School, snack provided, P-H-M Transportation available to students that live within PHM boundaries
YOUNG ADULT & LIFE SKILLS (Grades 6 – 12, June 12– July 2)
- Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Schmucker Middle School, snack provided, P-H-M Transportation available to students that live within PHM boundaries
PENN HIGH SUMMER SCHOOL, Session 1 (June 12 – July 2)
PENN HIGH SUMMER SCHOOL, Session 2 (July 14 – August 1)
- Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Schmucker Middle School, P-H-M Transportation available to students that live within PHM boundaries
P-H-M students entering grades 9-12 must register with their school counselor to take high school summer school classes. Click here for more information on Penn’s website.
Discovery Counseling Team Earns RAMP designation
Discovery Principal Elizabeth Cunha was notified this week that the school earned the Recognized ASCA Model Program® (RAMP®) designation. The RAMP designation comes from the American School Counselor Association and recognizes schools committed to delivering a data-informed school counseling program in accordance with The ASCA National Model: A Framework for School Counseling Programs®.
With an acceptance rate of 80%, RAMP identified Discovery as one of 190 schools in 29 states deserving of this national recognition. Since the program’s inception, more than 1,600 schools have been designated as RAMP recipients.
Our Counseling Team, along with the other schools, will be honored during a special ceremony at the ASCA Annual Conference in Long Beach, Calif., in July for making an exemplary commitment to their school counseling programs.
The RAMP award, celebrating its 21st year, recognizes schools committed to delivering a comprehensive, data-informed school counseling program and a topnotch educational environment.
RAMP schools are now in 47 states across the country. The RAMP designation is valid for five years. To maintain RAMP status, this year’s RAMP recipients must submit a successful application by Oct. 15, 2029, to maintain their RAMP status. This year 35 schools earned Re-RAMP status. “This year’s RAMP honorees have shown their commitment to students and the school counseling profession,” said Jill Cook, ASCA executive director. “These schools used data to inform their program development and implementation so all students can achieve success. RAMP designation distinguishes these schools and encourages school counselors nationwide to strive for excellence.”
Dr. Jerry Thacker Announces Retirement after 19 Years as P-H-M Superintendent
After nearly two decades leading the Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation, Superintendent Dr. Jerry Thacker has announced his retirement, effective in July 2025. In a heartfelt letter sent this morning to P-H-M teachers, staff, students, and families Dr. Thacker shared his decision to step down after a remarkable 53-year career in education (click here to read the letter).
“Dr. Thacker’s vision of excellence helped shape P-H-M into one of the top-performing school districts in Indiana,” commented Chris Riley, President of the P-H-M Board of School Trustees. “We are grateful not only for his years of leadership, but for his tireless commitment and dedication to our entire community. There is no greater supporter of Penn-Harris-Madison than Dr. Jerry Thacker!” Under Dr. Thacker’s leadership, P-H-M has achieved extraordinary milestones, including raising the graduation rate from 79% to 98%, ranking in the top 4% of the state academically, and helping students earn more than $200 million in scholarships. He also prioritized school safety, leading P-H-M to be ranked sixth in the nation for school safety initiatives.
Penn High School Commencement (2024)[/caption] In concert with the Board of School Trustees, P-H-M has a stellar record of financial stewardship.
P-H-M overcame a $3 million deficit, built a strong and sustainable financial model, and maintained one of the lowest tax rates in the region—all while ensuring our students and staff had the resources they needed to thrive. Reflecting on his tenure, Dr. Thacker shared “As superintendent, one of the greatest joys of my career has been attending school events and witnessing our students shine—whether excelling in academics, performing in fine arts, or competing in athletics. Our students’ talent and dedication are extraordinary.”
Penn State Baseball Championship (2023)
Dr. Thacker’s educational career began in the classroom as a 6th grade teacher at Madison Elementary School, where he taught for five-and-a-half years, before moving to Mary Frank Elementary to teach 5th and 6th grades for eight years, where he also became a Team Leader. His passion for learning and leadership soon led him to administrative roles across Indiana and beyond.
Dr. Jerry Thacker visiting with Elm Road students on the 1st day of school (2019)
Dr. Thacker’s extensive career in educational leadership includes:
- Eastlawn Elementary School, Twin Lakes School Corporation (Monticello, IN)
- Principal (1985-1987)
- Woodlawn Elementary School, Twin Lakes School Corporation (Monticello, IN)
- Principal and Director of Curriculum (1987-1989)
- Saginaw Intermediate School District (Saginaw, Michigan)
- Director of Curriculum, Professional Development, and School Improvement (1989-1990)
- Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township (Indianapolis, IN)
- Director of Elementary Education (1990-1996) – Led significant academic improvements, increasing the district’s 4-Star Schools from one to eight within five years
- Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources (1996-1998)
- Logansport Community School Corporation (Logansport, IN)
- Superintendent (1998-2006)
- Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation
- Superintendent (2006-2025)
He earned his Elementary Education degree from Bethel College, his Master’s from Indiana University South Bend, and his Ed.D. in Educational Administration, Counseling, and Psychology from Andrews University (Berrien Springs, Michigan). Dr. Thacker’s commitment to education has been driven by a lifelong dedication to student success. The Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents (IAPSS) named him Outstanding Educator of the Year in 2013 and again in 2017. He was also named Indiana Superintendent of the Year in 2012 and received the Sagamore of the Wabash in 2014—Indiana’s highest award—from then Governor Mike Pence. He has also been recognized as Alumnus of the Year from both IUSB and Bethel College. Donna and Jerry Thacker will spend the winter months in Florida. Dr. Thacker plans on remaining active in the field of education working as a consultant. He and Mrs. Thacker have been longtime contributors to and supporters of the P-H-M Education Foundation. During his tenure, the Thackers have donated $232,500, including contributions to PHMEF’s Naming Rights Campaign:
- Chris Geesman Kingsmen Athletic Center (formerly the Kingsmen Athletic Center), $25,000
- Al Rhodes Kingsmen Court, $10,000 donated in October 2023
- Arthur M. Klinger Planetarium (formerly the P-H-M DVT & Planetarium), $10,000 donated in January 2024
- Yeoman Family Plaza, $10,000 donated in March 2024
- Greg Dikos Field, $10,000 donated in August 2024
Dr. Jerry & Donna Thacker (2017)
It was announced in January that Penn High School’s new fieldhouse will be named the Dr. Jerry and Donna Thacker Fieldhouse. Click here for more information. Reflecting on his time at P-H-M, Dr. Thacker expressed deep gratitude for the support of teachers, staff, students, parents, and the broader P-H-M community. His leadership has left an enduring impact on the district, and his legacy will continue through the students, educators, and families he has influenced. “I will carry with me the countless memories of our shared successes and the friendships that have made this journey so meaningful,” Dr. Thacker said. “The future of P-H-M is bright because of each of you, and I have no doubt that our teachers, staff, and administrators will continue to inspire, empower, and lead with excellence. Our families will continue to raise amazing children. And our students are aptly prepared to make a difference in this world at every level.” Details about P-H-M’s Board of School Trustees’ search for the district’s next superintendent will be announced in the coming weeks.
Dr. Jerry Thacker Penn Homecoming Parade (2024)
Penn Winter 2025 Dance Clinic (PreK – 8 gr.)
PHMEF Grant to Discovery Middle School for Fitness Initiative
Discovery Middle School is taking steps to promote health and wellness, thanks to a $1,795 grant awarded by the PHM Education Foundation (PHMEF). Jennifer Turnblom, Executive Director of PHMEF, visited the school to present the grant to Terry Arter, John Hedrick, Kevin McMilen, and Autumn Stout for their project, “Power Hour: Fitness & Focus for a Strong Future.”
The grant will fund the purchase of new workout equipment to replace current items that are unsafe and damaged. The new equipment will support a variety of fitness opportunities, including a before-school workout club, enhanced physical education classes, and training sessions for athletes before and after school. This initiative is made possible through collaboration with the Discovery PTO and additional support from Dr. Aaron Leniski and Mrs. Elizabeth Cunha’s existing budgets.
The “Power Hour” program underscores Discovery Middle School’s commitment to promoting physical fitness, focus, and long-term wellness for all students. Congratulations to Terry Arter, John Hedrick, Kevin McMilen, and Autumn Stout, and thank you to PHMEF for supporting this impactful project!
Mrs. Blanchard wins PHM Impact Award
Students took ILEARN in the Spring. The students' results are more than just a reflection on how well they know and retained what they learned in a particular subject area.
Teachers work very hard to help their students review and retain the knowledge, and when necessary interventionist educators use RtI (Response to Intervention) tools.
The Fall 2024 P-H-M Teacher Impact Awards are given to educators who had the most significant individual student growth with Spring 2024 ILEARN (grades 3-8 and high school Biology), AP Testing at Penn, and highest RtI growth.
Mrs. Grace Blanchard, 6th grade ELA/Reading teacher was very surprised that she had won an award and credited her students for all their hard work. Mrs. Blachard’s class had the highest ELA/Reading growth in 6th grade when measured from mean fall ILEARN to ILEARN Checkpoints Achievement. Click to see the full photo gallery below.
Three other awards were given out on Thursday, December 12:
- LA (Kriss) High, 8th grade Math, Schmucker Middle School – Highest growth for 8th grade math, as measured from Spring ILEARN to Fall ILEARN Checkpoints.
-
Dawn Boulac, AP Statistics, Penn High School – Increased enrollment and qualifying scores on the AP Statistics Exam in May 2024 and an impressive 103 students met that benchmark! In addition, Penn AP Statistics students outperformed their peers at that state and global level in both mean scores and percentage passing.
-
Hollie Truckowski, Reading Specialist, Elsie Rogers Elementary School – Highest growth for all students in reading specialist interventions programming. Mrs. Truckowski’s students made well above average growth in two important measures of early literacy, oral reading fluency and NWF, a standardized measure of decoding ability. Mrs. Truckowski works with students who are academically at-risk in reading, and her work puts these students on an important pathway for growth.
With the help of the building principals, P-H-M Superintendent Dr. Jerry Thacker surprised the teachers with the Impact Awards. He was accompanied by other members of P-H-M Administration Dr. Heather Short, Asst. Superintendent; Director of Professional Development Dr. Lavon Dean-Null; and Ryan Towner, Director of Literacy. P-H-M Education Foundation Executive Director Jennifer Turnblom was also on hand; PHMEF covered the cost for the beautiful awards which teachers can proudly display in their classrooms.
While all P-H-M teachers make an impact with their students, dedicated to helping them achieve personal academic success, the Impact Award shines the spotlight on educators who have helped their students achieve individual academic growth on their formative assessments over time. The first-ever Impact Awards were handed out in September 2023 and recognized the teachers with the most significant overall student growth during the 2022-2023 school year.
Discovery ranked #3 middle school in Indiana, U.S. News 2025 “Best Schools”
U.S. News and World Report released its "Best Schools" rankings for K-8 public schools by state and P-H-M's middle schools were among the top schools in Indiana.
Discovery is ranked #3 out of Indiana’s 487 public middle schools! Schmucker is in the top 8%, with a ranking of #40.
- Northpoint #1 in Indiana
- Prairie Vista #2 in Indiana
- Horizon #19
- Mary Frank #32
- Bittersweet #56
- Moran #163
- Madison #200
- Elm Road #205
- Elsie Rogers #393
- Meadow's Edge #239