Moran Elementary held a surprise assembly to recognize Principal Lisa Russell for being named the District 2 Elementary Principal of the Year by the Indiana Association of School Principals.

Although Mrs. Russell was already aware of the award, the assembly was organized as a way for the Moran staff and students to personally congratulate her. The surprise included a gym full of cheering students and staff, as well as the unexpected appearance of her family and former mentors.

Mrs. Russell has served as principal of Moran Elementary since 2020. Under her leadership, the school has maintained a strong focus on student achievement, school culture, and staff collaboration. The award recognizes principals who demonstrate exemplary leadership, and District 2 includes the counties of St. Joseph, Elkhart, Kosciusko, Fulton, Pulaski, Marshall, Starke, and LaPorte.

The State Elementary Principal of the Year will be announced in November.

Following the celebration, Moran students enjoyed a performance by The Elm Road Jumping Eagles, a jump rope team from Elm Road Elementary. The group’s demonstration provided a fun and energetic conclusion to the event.

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Moran Elementary was filled with music, color, and imagination as students performed the beloved musical Willy Wonka!

Based on Roald Dahl’s classic story, the production followed the adventures of Charlie and other Golden Ticket winners as they toured the mysterious chocolate factoryWith catchy songs, creative costumes, and plenty of Oompa Loompas, the show transported the audience into a world of pure imagination.

Students worked hard to bring the magical tale to life, showcasing their talent and teamwork on stage. Bravo to the entire cast, crew, and staff for such a sweet and memorable performance!

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Moran is proud of our very own Bill Tobolski for being recognized as the Culver’s Bus Driver of the Month for February 2025! 🚍🏅

Bill has been a dedicated P-H-M bus driver since 2020, consistently going above and beyond to ensure a safe and positive experience for students. Known for his reliability, positive attitude, and strong relationships with both students and staff, Bill exemplifies excellence in school transportation.

During the award presentation, Reggie White, Driver Trainer Specialist with the Indiana Department of Education, joined the celebration, recognizing Bill’s outstanding contributions to student transportation.

This award is made possible through the support of Culver’s and the P-H-M Education Foundation, who continue to be valued partners in celebrating and supporting our dedicated bus drivers.

Congratulations, Bill, and thank you for your commitment to P-H-M students and families!

On Thursday, February 13th, Moran Elementary students enjoyed Friendship Parties filled with fun and kindness. Since there is no school on February 14th, students celebrated early by exchanging valentines, enjoying small treats, and participating in fun activities.

It was a great way to spread friendship and joy throughout the school, check out the photo gallery below!

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Due to the absence of local, state, or national elections on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, all P-H-M schools will be in session on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.  P-H-M will no longer have a Recess Day on this date.

As a result, the last day of school for students will now be Thursday, June 5, 2025. This is one day earlier than previously scheduled. P-H-M Teachers Association worked collaboratively with the District Administration to make these calendar changes.

Indiana law requires schools to be in session for 180 days each year. If necessary, P-H-M can utilize up to three weather-related eLearning days, as permitted under Indiana law (HB-1093). If additional makeup days are needed, they will be added to the end of the school year, following the new last student day, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Currently, no eLearning days have been called.

The new 2024-2025 school year calendar is posted on the P-H-M website, click here to view the updated calendar.

This morning, Moran Elementary School first graders enjoyed a fun fall field trip to Kercher’s Sunrise Orchards. The students took a tractor hayride to a corn maze, where they navigated twists and turns before emerging to select a gourd to take home.

In addition to the corn maze, students also got to see an Apple Orchard! Each student and adult volunteer helper had the chance to pick three apples.

The field trip provided students with hands-on learning about the fall harvest, while also giving them the opportunity to experience the beauty of the season. It was a great day for fresh air, fun, and fall exploration!

Click below to see the full photo gallery.

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Bittersweet and Moran first graders have been forming new friendships through a pen pals program that connects students from both schools. Throughout the school year, the students exchanged letters, learning about each other’s hobbies, families, and school experiences.

Today, the Moran students had the chance to meet their Bittersweet pen pals in person during an exciting visit.

The day’s highlight was a trip to the PHM Arthur M. Klinger Planetarium, where the students watched an engaging show about our Solar System.

They learned about planets, stars, and other celestial wonders while deepening their connections with their new friends. This collaboration between the schools encourages writing skills, curiosity about the world, and the joy of new friendships.

See more photos below!

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Thank you to EVERYONE who came to the 2024 Homecoming Parade and Football game. It was a terrific time not only for the Penn students, but also for the entire community.

The Parade, Expo, Fun Zone, Food Trucks and Fireworks were all bigger and better than ever.

After the game was over, the fans in attendance were treated to a fireworks show set to music!

There are three photo galleries below, one of the parade floats and participants, one of the parade spectators and one of the fun zone and expo. Take a look and we’ll see you in 2025!

Parade Floats

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Parade Spectators

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Fun Zone & Expo

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This week, the students of Moran Elementary School have been dreaming about their futures by dressing up as the professions that inspire them. From doctors to astronauts, chefs to engineers, our young Moran Knights showcased their ambitions and creativity.

Take a look at the wonderful careers these students are imagining for their tomorrows!

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