On Jan. 29, parents received an email from East Penn School District Superintendent Kristen Campbell regarding student safety protocols in light of “federal changes in immigration policy.”

Campbell’s message emphasized the existence of strict protocols relating to student safety, release of confidential student information and visitor entry guidelines.

“We understand that recent changes regarding federal immigration policy may be causing feelings of anxiousness or concern for some of our students and families,” Campbell said in her email to students and staff. “East Penn remains dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming environment where every student, family and staff member feels safe and welcome in our schools. We remain committed to educating and supporting every student that walks through our doors. We would like to take this opportunity to clarify our district policies and procedures regarding student safety and privacy.

“Our schools continue to maintain strict visitor entry protocols. All visitors must check in at building reception following established School Safe ID procedures. Students will only be released to a parent, guardian or emergency contact listed in PowerSchool. We encourage our families to review and update their emergency contact information in PowerSchool or contact their building to make any necessary changes.

“We maintain strict protocols regarding the sharing of student information. We have consulted with legal counsel to develop internal protocols for any outside agency or agent in accordance with federal, state and local laws. The privacy, confidentiality and safety of our students remain our top priority.

“As we continue to navigate current circumstances, we will provide a safe and secure learning environment for all students. Our school counselors are available in every school building to support any students in need of additional support. For any specific questions or concerns, please reach out to your school building principal directly.”

Emmaus High School students won over 70 awards in the 2025 Scholastic Art and Writing competition. This prestigious competition is the nation’s oldest competition of its kind. Over 30 students’ entries amassed altogether one Gold Key Portfolio, 27 Gold Key Individual Artwork, 20 Silver Key Individual Artwork and 22 Honorable Mention Individual Artwork awards. All Gold Key winners automatically advance to the national level of the competition. The winners’ artwork will be displayed at the Marlin and Regina Miller Gallery in the Sharadin Art Building at Kutztown University over the course of the month from Feb. 8-23, with an award ceremony being held there 2-3 p.m. Feb. 23.

EHS’s 2025 edition of its annual spring musical will be an adaptation of hit musical “Mamma Mia!” The show will be presented 7 p.m. April 2-5 and 2 p.m. April 5 and 6 in the EHS Auditorium. Tickets can be purchased online on EHS’s website with a special rate for students and senior citizens. For senior Gold Card citizens, the cast and crew will hold a complimentary performance 6 p.m. April 1. Cardholders must use their card as their ticket at this performance, and should note Gold Cards will not be accepted at any other performances. Anyone with questions can contact EHS at 610-965-1650.

The Class of 2025 graduation ceremony at the PPL Center will feature a video on the jumbotron, highlighting seniors’ memories and experiences. Students are encouraged to submit photos, videos and interviews for inclusion. Submissions can be uploaded via a Google Form on the students’ “Class of” Schoology page until April 15. Files should be titled with the first and last name of the person submitting.