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Winter Family Weekend 2026

Welcome Parents/Sponsors!

We are excited for all the virtual and in-person events that will take place March 6-8, 2026, during Winter Family Weekend. We want parents/sponsors to engage with the MHS community, equip themselves with new tools, and become more empowered to collaborate with MHS.

Click on the plus signs below to view full details for each event.

Family Weekend Passports

Qualify for a “free” weekend during Winter Family Weekend by completing a passport. Attend two activities on two separate days, get it initialed, and return it to your students’s houseparents.

Download a Passport (PDF)

Campus Locations

We know that our campus can be overwhelming with directions. Navigate through the MHS campus with these locations and landmarks.

View Addresses

Virtual Activities

We understand that schedules and distance may prevent some of our families from joining us. Please take advantage of virtual options—both scheduled and on-demand.

New Sponsor Seminar

Do you have a new student and want to learn the best ways to get involved with the MHS community? Join MHS Family Relations on Zoom on Friday, March 6 at 8 a.m. along with other parents/sponsors who will share their family’s experience at MHS and offer advice.

Sign UpJoin on Zoom

Spartan Gear Sale

Browse the online store and snag some swag to show your MHS pride! The online store is open until Sunday, March 8.

Winter Family Weekend

Friday: In-Person Events

WFW 2026-Friday Events

Friday: Engage

At MHS, we work to foster a sense of belonging and build relationships through programs and opportunities for involvement.

Click on the plus signs below to view details for each event.

Friday Events

New Sponsor Seminar at 8 a.m.

Do you have a new student and want to learn the best ways to get involved with the MHS community? Join the MHS Family Relations team at the Gertrude Gurt Family Center along with other parents/sponsors who will share their family’s experience at MHS and offer advice.

Sign UpJoin on Zoom

Elementary Division Events Starting at 8:30 a.m.

8:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Sponsor Shadowing

Parents/sponsors are invited to visit their student’s classroom from 8 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. at Memorial Hall, including lunch with your child. Parking is available in parking lot E by Henry Hershey Field and a shuttle will run from the parking lot to Memorial Hall.

Sign up to attend using this RSVP form. 

Please note:

  • All parents/sponsors will be required to present a valid state driver’s license or photo ID upon entering the school building. Failure to present proper identification will result in the denial of access to the school building. Contact the main office with questions regarding this policy.
  • Shadowing is for parents/sponsors only (no children, friends, or extended family).
  • Please do not bring flowers, balloons, or other gifts into the school building.
  • All cell phones must be turned off.

CHS Reunion from 9-11:30 a.m.

Join us for a gathering of MHS students and their families who formerly attended Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning in Memorial Hall.

Contact Margaret Rich at [email protected] or Robin Brantley-Case at [email protected] to RSVP.

12-2 p.m. Meet with an Elementary Division Home Life Administrator

Parents/sponsors are invited to schedule a meeting with a Home Life Administrator at Memorial Hall.

Contact Wendy Fahnestock at 717-520-2410 to schedule a meeting.

2 p.m. Band and Choir Concert

Join us at 2 p.m. in the Memorial Hall Auditorium for the Elementary Division Band & Choir concert.

Middle Division Events Starting at 9 a.m.

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sponsor Shadowing

Parents/sponsors are invited to shadow their student at Catherine Hall starting at 9 a.m. No RSVP is required.

Parking is available at the bottom of the hill of Catherine Hall. A shuttle will run continuously to the Ceremonial Entrance.

Please note:

  • All parents/sponsors will be required to present a valid state driver’s license or photo ID upon entering the school building. Failure to present proper identification will result in the denial of access to the school building. Contact the main office with questions regarding this policy.
  • Shadowing is for parents/sponsors only (no children, friends, or extended family).
  • Please do not bring flowers, balloons, or other gifts into the school building.
  • All cell phones must be turned off.

12-2 p.m. Meet with a Middle Divison Home Life Administrator

Parents/sponsors are invited to schedule a meeting with a Home Life Administrator at Catherine Hall.

Contact Tracie Teahl at 717-520.2402 to schedule a meeting.

Senior Division Events Starting at 9 a.m.

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sponsor Shadowing

Parents/sponsors are invited to shadow their student(s) throughout the school day in Senior Division buildings and follow them to their classes. Parents/sponsors should report to the front office of Fisher Hall.

RSVP to Melissa Akers by email at [email protected] or phone at 717-520-2064 at least 24 hours in advance.

Parents/sponsors should park behind Copenhaver Center.

Please note:

  • All parents/sponsors will be required to present a valid state driver’s license or photo ID upon entering the school building. Failure to present proper identification will result in the denial of access to the school building. Contact the main office with questions regarding this policy.
  • Shadowing is for parents/sponsors only (no children, friends, or extended family).
  • Please do not bring flowers, balloons, or other gifts into the school building.
  • All cell phones must be turned off.

Due to current construction on the Senior Division campus, additional walking is required between buildings.

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. College and Career Counselor Appointments

Schedule an appointment to meet your Senior Division student’s college and career counselor from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is a good time to ask questions about academic performance, postsecondary planning, or course selection.

Sign Up

Parents/sponsors should park behind Copenhaver Center.

The following counselors are located in the Learning Resource Center:

  • Dr. Calixto
  • Mr. Dietz
  • Dr. Farrar-Freeman
  • Mrs. Kopp
  • Mr. Speese
  • Mr. Zapata-Morales

The following counselor is located in Hammond Hall:

  • Mrs. Wascovich

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Graduate Programs for Success In-Person Meetings for Parents/Sponsors of Seniors

Do you have questions about the Continuing Education Scholarship? Stop by the second floor of the Learning Resource Center to meet with CES staff.

Parents/sponsors should park behind Copenhaver Center.

12-2 p.m. Meet with a Senior Division Home Life Administrator/TL Staff

Parents/sponsors are invited to schedule a meeting with a Home Life Administrator/TL staff. Parents/sponsors should enter through the front of Fisher Hall.

Parents/sponsors should park behind Copenhaver Center.

Founders Hall Tours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Take a closer look at more than 115 years of MHS history within the stately monument dedicated to Milton and Catherine Hershey. Tour Founders Hall Visitors Center from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Gertrude Gurt Family Center Open House from 2-4 p.m.

Parents/sponsors and their families are invited to spend time at the Gertrude Gurt Family Center where you can also create thank you notes for MHS teachers during your visit.

Family Dinner and Activities from 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Enjoy a great meal with your family, and interact with MHS staff and community partners from 4:30-6:30 p.m. in the Founders Hall dining room.

Activities during dinner:

  • 1,000 Voices Challenge Recording Booth
  • Meet Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning staff
  • Student Health Services Wellness Fair
  • Family Bingo from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Visual and Performing Arts Production of "Newsies" at 7 p.m.

Join us in Founders Hall Auditorium for the Senior Division Visual and Performing Arts production “Newsies.”

Set against the backdrop of 1899 New York City, the production follows Jack Kelly and his band of spirited newsboys as they rally for justice against powerful publishers. The talented MHS cast captures the grit and optimism of the era, delivering a performance that leaves audiences inspired to “seize the day!”

This show is free, and tickets are not required.

Winter Family Weekend

Saturday: In-Person Events

WFW 2026-Saturday Events

Saturday: Equip

MHS provides parents/sponsors with knowledge, skills, and resources to support student and graduate success.

Click on the plus signs below to view details for each event.

Saturday Events

Parent/Sponsor and Teacher Conferences from 8-11:30 a.m.

Schedule a conference with your student’s teacher in their school building from 8-11:30 a.m. Conferences are available by appointment only to ensure you receive dedicated, uninterrupted time with each teacher. This isn’t a drop-in event—it’s your chance for meaningful one-on-one conversations about your student’s progress, strengths, and goals. Virtual options are also available.

For parents/sponsors of Elementary and Senior Division students, your student’s teacher will send out information with details on how to sign up.

Parents/sponsors of Middle Division students can sign up for meetings by grade:

Senior Division College & Career Counselor Appointments from 9-11:30 a.m.

Schedule an appointment to meet your Senior Division student’s college and career counselor from 9-11:30 a.m. It is a good time to ask questions about academic performance, postsecondary planning, or course selection.

Sign Up

Parents/sponsors should park behind Copenhaver Center.

The following counselors are located in the Learning Resource Center:

  • Dr. Calixto
  • Mr. Dietz
  • Dr. Farrar-Freeman
  • Mrs. Kopp
  • Mr. Speese
  • Mr. Zapata-Morales

The following counselor is located in Hammond Hall:

  • Mrs. Wascovich

Visit Project Market from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Visit Project Market, an Agricultural and Environmental Education program student-run business, for fresh produce, Spartan Ice Cream, bird feeders and seed, and more!

Bird Watching with Agricultural and Environmental Education Staff from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the Agricultural and Environmental Education staff at the Environmental Center for bird watching and hands-on bird-related activities for students and families.

Founders Hall Tours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Take a closer look at more than 115 years of MHS history within the stately monument dedicated to Milton and Catherine Hershey. Tour Founders Hall Visitors Center from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Family Lunch and Spartan Spirit Store Sale from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Join us in the Founders Hall Dining Room for a family lunch.

While there, shop Spartan spirit apparel, created by Senior Division students. The Spartan Spirit Store is run by students from various career program areas and their advisors.

Don’t forget to record your video for the 100 Years, 1,000 Voices Challenge during lunch.

Gertrude Gurt Family Center Open House and Thank a Teacher Activity from 1-6 p.m.

Parents/sponsors and their families are invited to spend time at the Gertrude Gurt Family Center where you can also create thank you notes for MHS teachers during your visit. While at the Family Center, make a thank you note for a teacher, administrator, or other Scholastic staff member who has made an impact in your or your student’s life!

Visual and Performing Arts Production of "Newsies" at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Join us in Founders Hall Auditorium for the Senior Division Visual and Performing Arts production “Newsies.”

Set against the backdrop of 1899 New York City, the production follows Jack Kelly and his band of spirited newsboys as they rally for justice against powerful publishers. The talented MHS cast captures the grit and optimism of the era, delivering a performance that leaves audiences inspired to “seize the day!”

This show is free, and tickets are not required.

Winter Family Weekend

Sunday: In-Person Events

WFW 2026-Sunday Events

Sunday: Empower

MHS prioritizes the role of parents/sponsors as partners in their student’s emotional, behavioral, and cognitive development.

Click on the plus signs below to view details for each event.

Sunday Events

Chapel Services at 9 a.m.

You are welcome to sit with your student’s student home or utilize our visitor seating during our weekly chapel services on Sunday. A reminder that everyone should be seated 10 minutes prior to the start of each service.

Services by Division

Family Brunch from 10 a.m. to Noon

Join us for a delicious family brunch from 10 a.m. to noon in the Founders Hall Dining Room. While there, enjoy face painting and a fun winter craft.

Don’t forget to record your video for the 100 Years, 1,000 Voices Challenge during brunch.

Founders Hall Tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Take a closer look at more than 115 years of MHS history within the stately monument dedicated to Milton and Catherine Hershey. Tour Founders Hall Visitors Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Gertrude Gurt Family Center Open House and Thank a Teacher Activity from 12-4 p.m.

Parents/sponsors and their families are invited to spend time at the Gertrude Gurt Family Center where you can also create thank you notes for MHS teachers during your visit. While at the Family Center, make a thank you note for a teacher, administrator, or other Scholastic staff member who has made an impact in your or your student’s life!

Conferences with Houseparents/TL Staff from 12-5 p.m.

Meet one-on-one with your student’s Houseparents or Transitional Living staff to review their progress in the student home. If your student is in Middle and Senior Division, this is a great time to review your student’s Milton Hershey Way Progress Report.

Please contact your student’s Houseparents/TL staff to schedule a meeting.

Family Weekend Resources

Family Weekend FAQs

What are Family Weekends?

  • Family Weekends are special weekends designed just for MHS students and families.
  • Winter Family Weekend 2026 will begin on Friday, March 6 and end on Sunday, March 8. Students must return to their student homes by 5 p.m.
  • All MHS families are invited to join teachers and staff on campus to experience fun activities with their students, visit school buildings, see amazing student performances, eat meals together, and more!
  • Family Weekends are an excellent opportunity to connect with your student on campus and meet MHS community members who are important to them.

Do we need to participate in all of the events?

  • Families are encouraged to participate in the activities they choose. There are no mandatory events.
  • We encourage our families to get involved, meet staff, and experience campus with their student. We also understand that schedules and distance may prevent some of our families from joining.
  • Some events are in person and some events are virtual. If you cannot attend in person, please take advantage of the virtual options.

How do I qualify for a free weekend?

  • The passport system is an opportunity for families to earn a free overnight weekend visit by attending an on-campus event.
  • Download the passport (PDF) from the Family Weekend website, see your houseparents for a passport, or get a copy from an MHS staff member at an event.
  • Attend any two in-person activities on campus on two separate days and have a staff member sign your passport. Example: attend one event on Friday and one event on Saturday. Turn the completed passport in to your student’s houseparent to have an overnight visitation that does not count as one of your allotted weekends.
  • Reminder: Passports only qualify families for a free weekend during Winter Family Weekend and must be used March6-8, 2026. Passports are not valid for any other dates.

Watch this instructional video:

 

Can I bring other family members or family friends along for the weekend events?

  • Yes, we welcome families to bring others along to visit with your student. It is a great way to show off your student’s educational and Home Life experiences.
  • Although we encourage family participation in most Family Weekend events, please note that sponsor shadowing is limited to adult parents/sponsors only.

Do all events require an RSVP?

  • Many Family Weekend events do not require an RSVP.
  • If registration is needed, it will be clearly marked within the event description.
  • Read each event description carefully to find out if RSVPs are needed.

Can I RSVP to MHS staff for all events or do I need to RSVP separately for each event online?

  • You must RSVP to all events you want to attend separately.
  • Many different departments on campus manage and host their own events, so it is important that you RSVP or register for each event.

Parking and Directions

We know that our campus can be overwhelming with directions. We are providing Google Maps directions to parking lots of the main locations for Winter Family Weekend events.

Catherine Hall – Middle Division

Parking Lot Directions

Memorial Hall – Elementary Division

Parking Lot Directions

Gertrude Gurt Family Center

Parking Lot Directions

Founders Hall

Parking Lot Directions

Copenhaver Gym

Parking Lot Directions

Project Market

Parking Lot Directions

Parent Portal Resources

The Parent Portal is where you’ll get an inside look at your student’s grades in school, activities, and life in the student home. You received your username and password for the Parent Portal on Enrollment Day—email [email protected] if you need help remembering your login credentials. Please keep your contact information up to date to continue receiving communication from the school.

Access the Parent PortalSteps for Signing In to the Parent Portal

The portal also has a smartphone app to help you stay connected when you’re on the go.

Download on App StoreGet it on Google Play

Parent/Sponsor Resources

Milton Hershey School grandparents raising grandchildren at family weekend.

Support Resources

We want to make sure you have everything you need to support your student and that you feel supported, too.

View Resources

Milton Hershey School parents/sponsors at family weekend events.

Parent/Sponsor Blog

Read stories about our parents/sponsors who have shared their MHS experiences with us.

Read Stories

Milton Hershey School Family Relations team.

Family Relations Staff

The MHS Family Relations team helps parents and sponsors build a supportive relationship with the school.

Email Us

Milton Hershey School does not discriminate in admissions or other programs and services on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, religious creed or disability. Read important MHS policies on equal opportunity and diversity, equal employment opportunity, and more.

© 2026 Milton Hershey School
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