January 24, 2025

Erin Deka and Luci Ross Celebrate Senior Night with Their Families - Proud Senior Swimmers

From the Desk of Superintendent Young

Dear CHS Community,

While the recent arctic blast forced us to close school for two days, I appreciate everyone's understanding as we prioritized safety. Though having students learning in our buildings every day is vital, these decisions, while difficult, are necessary. And with winter only a month old, we'll continue to monitor conditions carefully in the weeks ahead.

This weekend brings several opportunities to celebrate our school community. On Saturday we will honor the 2014 State Champion Softball Team as they're inducted into our Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2024. Their achievements remain an inspiring part of our school's rich history. Also on Saturday is the much anticipated CHS Got Talent event, sponsored by our music boosters, which promises to showcase the unique talents and abilities of our students.

Looking ahead to next week, our PTO is hosting a Pop-Up Winter Book Fair. This event not only promotes the importance of reading but helps expand our middle and high school book collections.

These activities - from celebrating past achievements to supporting current students - demonstrate how our community continues to enrich the educational experience at CHS. Your ongoing involvement and support create opportunities that allow our students to grow, learn, and achieve in countless ways.

Reaching New Heights Together,
Matt Young
Superintendent

CHS TIP OF THE WEEK: Encouraging Reading for Pleasure and Knowledge

Reading for pleasure is one of the most effective ways to improve learning across all subjects. When students enjoy reading, they naturally build vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills. Here are some tips to encourage reading:

Preschool-5th Grade:

Create cozy reading spaces at home
Let children choose their own books
Read together as a family daily
Make reading interactive with discussions

6th-8th Grade:

Explore different genres and formats
Join or start a book club
Connect reading to interests and hobbies
Use audiobooks for variety

9th-12th Grade:

Share interesting articles and books
Read about potential career interests
Discuss current events through reading
Balance required and pleasure reading

For All Students:

Visit the library regularly
Model reading at home
Discuss what you're reading as a family
Create reading challenges or goals

Remember, developing a love of reading opens doors to lifelong learning and success!

Featuring...

Our High School Math Department

Al Martin
After graduating from the University of Notre Dame in 1988, I worked in the management reporting division for Continental Bank in Chicago. I then worked as the Business Manager for "Channel One" (a national television news program that was produced and distributed by Whittle Communications) in Los Angeles. In the summer of 1994, I went back to school to earn my teaching certification and I began coaching football, basketball, and baseball at Cuyahoga Heights. I started teaching high school math courses at Cuyahoga Heights in 2000. I have enjoyed every year that I have worked here and consider my students and players part of my family. All three of my children graduated from Cuyahoga Heights and my wife, Kathy, is the Assistant Treasurer for the school.

Jim Rademaker
This is my twelfth year teaching math with all 12 being at Cuyahoga Heights. I was hired right out of college from Ohio University in 2013 with a BS in Applied Mathematics and MS in Math Education. I then completed a Master’s Degree in Mathematics from Cleveland State. I’ve taught all grade levels from 7-12. It has been great being a part of an awesome staff and community for my whole teaching career. I also coach JV Golf and keep score for volleyball, basketball, and track. I currently live in Rocky River with a black cat named Kitty. Outside of school, I enjoy gardening, hiking, reading, and board games.

Jordan Sadler
I am currently in my first year teaching at Cuyahoga Heights and my fifth year of teaching overall. I first learned about Cuyahoga Heights when I completed my student teaching experience here under Dan D’Orazio. Mr. D’Orzaio taught me so much and I am thankful for all the time he invested into me! It’s still hard to believe that my student teaching experience has come full circle now that I am a part of the staff. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be a Red Wolf! Cuyahoga Heights is a truly special place with amazing people. My favorite part of my job is building relationships with students. We have really great students here and I have enjoyed getting to know them.

My wife, Hayley, and I have been married for a year and a half. Hayley is the best! We have a great community of friends and family that we love very much. In my time away from school I enjoy spending time with my community, working out, and watching Cleveland sports.

Christy Zawadski
I am currently in my 18th year teaching Math at Cuyahoga Heights, and my 24th year of teaching. Besides teaching math classes, I am fortunate enough to also be able to teach AP Computer Science and Cybersecurity classes. Part of the reason I love Cuyahoga Heights is because of the great kids and people I work with, so it makes coming to school every day very easy! I was also fortunate enough to be the Varsity Girls Soccer and Softball coach for many years, and the relationships formed with the students are everlasting.

I have 3 children, but currently am an empty nester. My oldest son is a Special Education Teacher and Varsity Baseball Coach at Olmsted Falls High School. He also recently got married this past summer, so I have a wonderful new daughter in law. My middle son lives in Columbus and is fortunate enough to kick a ball for a living. My youngest is currently a senior at the University of Kentucky studying Dietetics, enjoying her last year before starting graduate school in the fall.

In my spare time I love to take walks with my dog, Oscar, run, do crossfit and play pickleball. My husband and I love sports so you can usually find us watching a game somewhere.

Congratulations Lyndsey Wisiniewski

As the eighth-grade Intervention Specialist at Cuyahoga Heights Middle School, Lyndsey Wisniewski works closely with teachers to modify and accommodate the needs of all students. She also works closely with students that may be struggling with assignments and finds ways to explain material in a way that enables them to understand. Her tenacity toward helping all students succeed has put her in the Staff Spotlight for January 2025.

For Wisniewski, creating positive relationships with students, teachers, and staff, is key to helping students achieve. “The students love their teachers and building strong relationships with them is critical to them being comfortable to learn and grow,” she says. “It has also taught me to adapt and make sure that I am continuing to push the students to work hard, to try, and to not give up when something is hard.” Read more...

DISTRICT NEWS

Students of the Month-January

Cuyahoga Heights Schools proudly announces the November Students of the Month. Each month, nine students are selected based on teacher nominations: one from each grade 6th-12th, and two from a particular grade level in the elementary school. These exemplary students, chosen for their outstanding achievements, were recognized at the Board of Education meeting on Wednesday, January 22. This monthly recognition highlights our students' diverse talents and dedication throughout the school year. Congratulations to all!

3rd Grade
Audrey Thomas
Xander Dominic

6th Grade
Jackson Merbler

7th Grade
Malachi Akers

8th Grade
Lana Collins

9th Grade
Sophia Jackson

10th Grade
Karissa Tritsarolis

11th Grade
Aiden Flynn

12th Grade
Brody Boyert

Crumbl Cookie Grams

Send your Valentine a Crumbl Cookie Gram and support the CHS Music Department's 2026 Chicago Trip!

Have cookies delivered to a student during lunch on Thursday, February 13, or choose to pick up your cookies after school that day - just in time for Valentine's Day. There is even an option to make an additional donation to provide cookies for other students and staff.

Order Crumbl Cookies today at https://cuyhtsmusic.ptboard.com/formvw?store=5284&form=7

PTO Fundraiser

The Cuyahoga Heights PTO is excited to announce that tickets are on sale for the Winter Wonderland Adults-Only Fundraiser

Event Details
• When: Saturday, February 22nd, 2025, at 7:00 PM
• Where: Wild Eagle, Broadview Heights

Tickets:
Individual Admission: $55
Couples Admission: $100

Tickets include two drink tickets per person and a delicious spread of heavy appetizers.

Payment Options: You can purchase your tickets on PTBoard by clicking the link below, or reach out to chsptopresident216@gmail.com for cash or Venmo payment options.

Link for Tickets:
https://chspto.ptboard.com/formvw?store=5029&form=12

This PTO event is open to friends and family outside of the district, so please invite your friends and family to support the school

What to Expect
• Raffles baskets and a silent auction with some amazing items
• Giant Jenga, cornhole, and more
• An unforgettable night of food, fun, and community

Tickets are limited, so don’t wait—grab yours today and join us for an incredible evening!

Have Questions or Interested in Donating to the Event?
If you have any questions, or your business would like to contribute, please reach out to chsptopresident216@gmail.com for more information.

Check Out These Exclusive Auction & Raffle Prizes

Ride in a Firetruck
Does your kid dream of being a firefighter? Bid on this amazing experience where your child can ride along in a Valley View Firetruck during the Memorial Day Parade, courtesy of the Valley View Fire Department.

Principal for a Day
Does your student think they could run the school better than Mr. Melvin or Mr. DeTray? Let them sit in the big chair, make decisions like extra recess vs. extra homework (just kidding… or are we??), and see what it’s like when everyone wants your attention! Who knows? Maybe they’ll leave with an appreciation for how hard it is to keep a school running—or just a newfound love for calling the shots!

Dean for a Day
Does your student think Mrs. Scotton has it easy keeping the peace? Let them step into the role of Dean for a Day, where they can help manage the chaos of the students (and maybe the teachers, too!)

VIP Pick-Up Spot
Tired of lining up for pick-up hours ahead of time just to get to that 4 pm appointment? Bid on a Reserved Parking Spot for the rest of the school year and finally pull in like the VIP you know you are. This spot is prime real estate.

Autographed Steven Kwan Baseball
Baseball fans—this is your chance to take home a signed baseball from Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan! A must-have for any collector!

Browns Swag Bag with Surprise Autographed Mini Helmet
Cleveland Browns fans—get ready! Score a swag bag packed with Browns gear and a mystery autographed mini helmet for the ultimate fan experience.

Crate & Barrel Wine & Cheese Basket
Treat yourself or someone special to this elegant wine and cheese basket from Crate & Barrel. Complete with luxury wine glasses, a decanter, a cheese board, and more. It’s perfect for hosting or relaxing at home.

Retro Redskins Basket
Show your school spirit with a Retro Redskins Basket, donated by the Athletic Boosters—filled with classic gear to represent CHS in style!

Tickets to the Great Lakes Science Center
Fuel your family’s curiosity with a day of hands-on learning at the Great Lakes Science Center—perfect for curious minds and fun for all ages.

More Amazing Prizes Include:
• A Family 4-Pack for all home CHS sporting events next year
• Concert Tickets & Swag
• Luxury Gift Baskets, Spa Services, Personal Training Packages & More

Winter Book Fair

Please join us and support an inaugural District-Wide Family Friendly Book Fair. We will have a wide selection of books and literacy tools from Kindergarten through Young Adult.

Volunteers are desperately needed to make this event a success. All volunteers will receive a $5 off $20 coupon towards any purchase. High school students are welcome to sign up for after-school volunteer shifts. Volunteer signups are open to all ES-HS parents, staff, and community members.

Winter Book Fair Volunteer Link: https://chspto.ptboard.com/sgnvw

Visit the Book Fair Homepage for additional details or to set up an e-Wallet account for MS/HS students: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/CHS

Show off your Talent!

Calling all Cuyahoga Heights Schools students (K-12), staff, alumni, parents, grandparents, friends, etc - the CHS Music Boosters are looking for more acts for CHS got Talent on Saturday, January 25. Come show off your talent no matter what it is - singing, dancing, gymnastics, fortune telling, juggling, joke yelling, drum solo, musical performance, theatrical performance, soccer ball juggling, lip syncing - ANYTHING GOES.

Due to the HUGE influx of interest over the past couple of days, CHS got Talent is moved to the Cuyahoga Heights Schools High School Auditorium. We hope to see you there THIS Saturday!

Doors, open at 5:45pm - snacks, CHS Music Department merch sales, 50/50 ticket sales, basket raffles and sideboard raffles will be available in the north gym until the show starts and again at intermission.

Admission is $5, but performers and volunteers are FREE.

Pre-purchase admission or 50/50 tickets (need not be present to win)

https://cuyhtsmusic.ptboard.com/formvw?store=5284&form=6

Attention Prospective Tuition Students

If you're interested in joining Cuyahoga Heights Local Schools for the upcoming 2025-26 school year, please note that our tuition registration is now open. Please follow this link to apply today. Registration will close on February 28, 2025.

Thank you for choosing Cuyahoga Heights Local Schools, where we strive to help every student reach new HEIGHTS!

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

COMMUNITY

ALUMNI HAPPENINGS

Former Cuyahoga Heights MVPs Shine in College Basketball Matchup

It was an exciting, record-making night for two former Cuyahoga Heights Girls Basketball MVP's who recently squared off against each other at the college level. After playing basketball together for 3 years at Cuyahoga Heights, Tess Conroy and Julia Jaenke competed against each other for the first time when Mount Union travelled to Muskingum on January 22. Tess and Julia both scored 12 points (career highs) during the game. Tess ('23) and Julia ('24) were both conference MVP's their senior year in high school. Also in attendance - Ava Galek ('24) drove in to see the game from The Ohio State University to support her former teammates. All three girls are enjoying their college experiences and excelling academically! Way to go - Tess, Julia, and Ava! #Redwolve Pride

Calling All CHS Time Travelers: Class of 1950, 1975, and 2000!

As the Class of 2025 enters their final year at Cuyahoga Heights, we are also rolling out the red carpet for the Classes of 1950, 1975 and 2000! Whether you rocked poodle skirts, bell-bottoms, or cargo pants during your high school days, we want to hear from you!

🎓 Class of 1950: Celebrating 75 years of wisdom!

🎓 Class of 1975: Half a century of memories!

🎓 Class of 2000: A quarter-century of adulting!

We want to bring your high school memories back to life. Throughout the year, we'll be reaching out to you, our alumni, to share your stories as we relive the school year, one nostalgic moment at a time.

Are you (or someone you know) a proud graduate from these classes? We want to hear from you!

🍂 Fall Flashback: Share Your Back-to-School Memories! 🍂

As leaves start to turn and school bells ring again, we're diving into your first-quarter memories. Send us your stories and snapshots of:

Pep rallies that got your school spirit soaring
Fall sports triumphs and team bonding moments
Homecoming festivities that still make you smile
Typical school day shenanigans
Fashion statements that defined your era
Hairstyles that were totally "in" (no judgments, we promise!)

Whether it's a faded photograph, a vivid memory, or a hilarious anecdote, we want it all! Help us create a time capsule of Cuyahoga Heights Schools through the decades.

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Send your stories and photos using this link.

#CHSAlumniLegacy #DecadesOfExcellence

STAY IN THE LOOP

We're excited to introduce a new addition to our Friday e-newsletter to help families stay in the loop. To make your life easier, we've created a dedicated section that serves as a one-stop shop for all the essential apps and tools you regularly need. Here, you'll find quick access to everything from reporting absences and tracking school buses to adding money to lunch accounts and more. We hope this centralized resource will save you time and make managing your child's school-related tasks more convenient.

Know someone who would enjoy receiving our weekly e-newsletter?
Share this link with them!

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS E-NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP

Report Student Attendance
& Dismissal Exception
(Dismissal for ES only)