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! 👇


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

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.
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

Happy Teacher's Appreciation Week



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!





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

-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)
*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.




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!

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! 🧡

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




