Our 5K Class students are taking to the pavement to put their hard work to the test. Over the last several weeks, these runners haven't just been logging miles; they’ve been mastering proper technique, diving into nutrition, and learning the importance of sleep and recovery.

More importantly, they’ve learned that a 3.1-mile race is as much about endurance and perseverance as it is about speed.

🏃‍♂️ A Tradition of Excellence
Since we first kicked off in 2011, this program has been a staple of our school. For the past two years, we’ve been proud to run in honor of the Tanner Jacob Foundation, keeping Tanner’s spirit of determination alive with every step.

🏆 The Records to Beat
Our students always aim high, but these legendary times still lead the pack:

Boys Record: Tanner Jacob | 19:39 (2014/2015)

Girls Record: Kristen Cravens | 22:57 (2016/2017)

Whether they’re aiming for a personal best or just focused on crossing that finish line, we are so proud of the dedication these students have shown.

Start time is 9:00 am.
Check out the attached map to see the race route and find the best spot to cheer! 👇

16 minutes ago, Mrs. Mayhall
5K
This girl didn't miss a single question over sixteen chapters of our novel study. Cora, you are amazing!!
about 6 hours ago, Third Grade Team
awesome work
Join us in celebrating THREE remarkable careers!

Please join us as we celebrate the dedication, passion, and lasting impact they’ve made on generations of students and staff. There will be time to share memories, express appreciation, and wish them all the best in this exciting new chapter.

📅 Date: May 13, 2026
⏰ Time: 2:45PM - 4:00PM
📍 Location: PHS Commons - 201 W Eight St., Pana, IL 62557
4 days ago, Pana CUSD 8
Retirement

Junior High Track Meet for 5-8-26 is CANCELLED.

We are cancelling today's junior high track meet at Pana for today due to the weather. There will be no make up date.

4 days ago, Mr. Cothern-Athletic Director

A Full-Circle Celebration for Career Day! 🎓

Last Friday, we held our annual Career Day, and while it’s always a highlight of the year, this one was truly one for the books.

For years, Mrs. Sowarsh and Mr. Pierce have worked side-by-side to make this event a success for our students. This year was bittersweet, as it marked their final Career Day together before Mr. Pierce’s upcoming retirement. Their partnership has built a legacy that has impacted countless Panther lives!

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KubLRJFB1EPddLZDLivzSKx4Vl1K33bT/view?usp=sharing

4 days ago, Mrs. Mayhall
Career Day

Happy Teacher's Appreciation Week

4 days ago, Mrs. Mayhall
Teacher Appreciation
The Pana Education Foundation License Plate fundraiser is now underway! Use the link below to order this year's custom plate.
5 days ago, Amanda Skinner
Time to order your Panther speciality plate!
Congratulations to our Class of 2026 graduating seniors!

https://bit.ly/phs_2026
5 days ago, Amanda Skinner
Seniors 2026
Ms. Holthaus’ senior co-op class got to celebrate their last day with Sno Biz! Thanks for working hard not only at PHS but also at your job placements everyday! Well deserved! 🍧🎓
5 days ago, Allison Swisher
p
We are proud to celebrate outstanding student leaders from our district at the IPA Abe Lincoln Region Student Recognition Breakfast!

Each Abe Lincoln Region member principal had the opportunity to nominate a student from their exiting grade, to be recognized for their leadership, character, and positive impact on their school community. Students receive a certificate of recognition from the Abe Lincoln Region of the Illinois Principals Association, with a special emphasis on leadership qualities.

This year, we are honored to recognize the following students:
✨ Harper Leach – selected by Mr. Metzger (PES)
✨ Blaire Ade – selected by Ms. Mayhall (PJHS)
✨ Kennedy Bowker – selected by Ms. Christensen (PHS)

Congratulations to these incredible students for representing our schools so well. Your leadership makes a difference, and we are proud of all you have accomplished!
6 days ago, Mrs. Mayhall
Group
Harper
Blaire
Kennedy
Graduation is around the corner! LifeTouch will be there to capture the moment of your graduate! You can use the information on the flyer to opt-in to view and order photos of the special event.
6 days ago, Amanda Skinner
Graduation Orders File
Join us in celebrating THREE remarkable careers!

Please join us as we celebrate the dedication, passion, and lasting impact they’ve made on generations of students and staff. There will be time to share memories, express appreciation, and wish them all the best in this exciting new chapter.

📅 Date: May 13, 2026
⏰ Time: 2:45PM - 4:00PM
📍 Location: PHS Commons - 201 W Eight St., Pana, IL 62557
7 days ago, Pana CUSD 8
Retirement
5/5/26 Sports Cancellations

-HS Boys and Girls Track-SCC CONFERENCE MEET Postponed until 5/6/26 (3:00) in Gillespie

-HS Softball has been cancelled-Rescheduled for 5/14/26 in Staunton (4:30)

-HS Soccer has been cancelled for today-Rescheduled for 5/14/26 in Pana (4:30)
7 days ago, Mr. Cothern-Athletic Director
VOLLEYBALL CAMPS (2026)

*Volleyball camp forms were handed out last week for any interested girls who will be in grades 4 through 12 NEXT SCHOOL YEAR. We have extended the deadline to turn these forms in to your child's school office until TUESDAY (5-5-26) at 3:30 PM. The forms are attached to this post as photos.
8 days ago, Coach Cothern
Required paperwork for volleyball camp.
Required paperwork for volleyball camp.
Required paperwork for volleyball camp.
PHS Student Council would like to congratulate Mr. Matt Sanders for receiving Staff of the Month for April! This is voted on by the students and sponsored by Tres Compadres, Pana, IL.
8 days ago, Kristie Hardimon
SOTM
Reminder to PHS Graduates: Baccalaureate takes place today, Sunday, May 3rd at 2 PM at Pana Christian Church for those who would to attend.
9 days ago, Amanda Skinner

Who knew pennies could be this powerful? 🪙✨

Our sophomore class held a Penny Wars fundraiser with five jugs labeled for different teachers. The teacher with the most change got a pie in the face and Mr. Sanders WON by a landslide! He was such a good sport and made the whole day unforgettable. Thanks to everyone who donated!

If you didn't get to experience it LIVE, here's the replay!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhdS2PU-VjE

11 days ago, Amanda Skinner
Pie in the Face Fundraiser
Today we celebrate our Pana High School Lunch Heroes!

Behind every great school day is a team making sure our students are fueled, cared for, and ready to learn—and these amazing women do just that, every single day. They serve more than meals… they serve smiles, kindness, and consistency our students can count on. 💙

Thank you for everything you do for Panther Nation!! We appreciate you more than words can say!

Happy National School Lunch Hero Day! 🧡
11 days ago, Amanda Skinner
Lunch Heroes Day

National Lunch Hero Day! Today PJHS is celebrating our cafeteria crew!

11 days ago, Mrs. Mayhall
PJHS Cafeteria Crew
Mrs. Simpson had two preschool students count all the way to 100 this week! They’ve been working so hard as they get ready for kindergarten, and it truly shows. We are so proud of their dedication and growth—way to go, friends!
12 days ago, Bekah Simpson
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