January 31, 2025

From the Desk of Superintendent Young

Dear CHS Community,

It's remarkable how quickly January has passed, bringing us to Groundhog Day this Sunday. While we officially have six more weeks of astronomical winter ahead, we can all join in hoping our furry forecaster doesn't spot his shadow, perhaps signally early spring-like weather.

February marks the beginning of winter sports tournament season. We are especially grateful for our senior athletes as they enter their final postseason competitions. These tournaments represent not just the culmination of a season, but for many, the conclusion of years of dedication to their sports.

Our elementary school launched the second round of BUS-A-PALOOZA this week. The four-week program now includes new recognition opportunities: Bus Rider of the Week and the coveted MVR (Most Valuable Rider) award. Winners will receive certificates, newsletter recognition, and a special treat. These initiatives make our daily routines more engaging while promoting safe and positive behavior on our buses.

I continue to be appreciative of the choice families make to be part of our school community. Your trust in us and your active partnership in your children's education makes Cuyahoga Heights Schools a truly special place to learn and grow.

Reaching New Height Together,
Matt Young
Superintendent

CHS TIP OF THE WEEK: Supporting Physical Health and Mental Health in Winter

Winter months can be challenging for both physical and mental health. Taking care of our well-being is essential for learning and growth. Here are some tips to support health during these winter months:

Preschool-5th Grade:

• Ensure adequate sleep with consistent routines

• Plan indoor physical activities

• Practice basic stress-relief techniques

• Maintain healthy eating habits

6th-8th Grade:

• Balance screen time with physical activity

• Learn and practice relaxation techniques

• Stay connected with friends safely

• Develop healthy winter exercise routines

9th-12th Grade:

• Manage academic stress through planning

• Make time for physical activity daily

• Practice self-care routines

• Maintain social connections while staying healthy

For All Students:

• Get outside when weather permits

• Stay hydrated and eat nutritiously

• Keep regular sleep schedules

• Talk openly about feelings and concerns

Remember, taking care of our physical and mental health is just as important as academic success!

Featuring...

Lora Croftcheck
I am currently in my 21st year of teaching here at Cuyahoga Heights, however if we want to talk about my years within the school, then I have been here since I was just four years old in pre-k! I have been fortunate enough to teach a multitude of different science courses in my tenure here including AP Biology, Honors Biology, Biology, Biological Science, and Genetics. In my earlier years here I used to coach both football and basketball cheerleading, but since having children of my own, I have given those up. I find so much joy in teaching in a school where I can have some of the same students year after year (and then have their siblings) - and build those lasting relationships with families. That may not be able to happen in other, larger schools!

In my free time, I am always with my family in some way shape or form. My husband, Chris is also a CHS graduate. We have two children, Cade is an 8th grader at University School, and Eve is a 6th grader at Hathaway Brown School. Both of them keep us extremely busy with traveling all over the state (and further) with football, swimming, lacrosse, and gymnastics. I feel very fortunate to have a career that allows me to have the same schedule as them when they are at this pivotal age!

Miles Paterson
If you don't know who I am, that might be good news. Avoid the rest of this paragraph. My name is Miles Paterson, I am the Physics (among other things) teacher at Cuyahoga Heights. I am known for a pretty big personality, which really comes out when we are doing crazy science things. I absolutely love working at Heights, I think that we are all lucky to be here. There is nothing like this school.

I have taught for 12 years, but spent 8 of them here, where I hope to stay until I can retire an old, old, super old man. Before I came to Heights I would have called myself the best teacher who ever lived, but then I met all the amazing people here, so I guess I will settle for being the tallest teacher who currently works in the district. Now that is what I call a consolation prize.

I have an unbelievably wonderful family: shoutout to my wife for always putting up with me screaming at the TV during Bills game, and to my daughter and son who are just adorable to a fault. Piper too, my goodness what a good dog.

All that said, I am blessed to work here, and hope I can make a good mark on an already great school.


Chad Robinson
My name is Chadwick Robinson and I’ve been honored to be teaching at Cuyahoga Heights for the entirety of my 24-year career as an educator straight out of Ohio University! Besides dropping knowledge on my Environmental Science and all three levels of Chemistry students (Regular, Honors, & AP), I also serve as the Head Coach for Boys & Girls Cross-Country in the Fall and as an Assistant Track Coach in the Spring. Beyond that, I am the voice over the PA for the Varsity Football home games and also for the Boys Varsity Basketball in the Flip Saunders Gymnasium. I was born and raised in NEOhio and live & die by our Cleveland teams (CAVS, Guardians, Browns)… Spending time with my wife Kelly and my two children, Aurora (17) and William (13), both of whom attend our wonderful school is what keeps me most happy! When I’m not busy enough, I train and run long distance endurance events, cook some mean food dishes, listen to all genres of music, and enjoy being a cat-dad to four felines in our new home in Peninsula just inside the Cuyahoga Valley National Park🌲

Becky Voytek
An alumnus of CHS, I started my teaching journey in Geneva but couldn't resist the pull of my hometown, eventually making my way back to CHS. My three daughters, all CHS graduates, are keeping the academic world on its toes. Mara is on her way to a Ph.D. in neuroscience—because why not learn how brains really work? Kenni is pursuing a doctorate in occupational therapy, and Maecy is working towards her master's degree in speech pathology and disorders. My handsome husband, Joel, keeps things lively in the community as a coach, while I balance the chaos with crafting. Sewing and embroidery are my therapy of choice. Life’s a stitch, and I’m always working on the next project, both in crafting and in the classroom!

DISTRICT NEWS

8th grade students in Mrs. Douglas's room had another opportunity to explore their interests in a new round of hands-on activities focused on different career clusters with Mrs. Regula, Career Specialist from CVCC. These included Hospitality & Tourism, Human Resources, Information Technology, STEM, and Transportation, Logistics & Distribution.

Students put their skills to the test in activities such as event planning, robotics, coding, cosmetology, and logistics. Not only were these activities fun, but they also provided valuable insight into the students' strengths and interests—helping them discover potential career paths.

As students engaged in these activities, discussions filled the room, with many sharing their likes and dislikes about each experience. This allowed them to reflect on which skills they enjoyed using, giving them a clearer understanding of future career possibilities.

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

Planning to join us for the PTO Winter Wonderland Fundraiser on Saturday, February 22 at Wild Eagle in Broadview Heights? 

Here’s an extra reason to grab your tickets NOW!

Buy your event tickets by end of the day February 1, and you’ll get 1 FREE raffle ticket per person to use at the event. Already purchased your tickets? No worries—you’re automatically included in this bonus too.

Tickets are $55 per person or $100 per couple and includes 2 drink tickets per person and heavy appetizers like smoked wings, sliders, flat bread, and more. 

Get your tickets here: https://chspto.ptboard.com/formvw?store=5029&form=12

Don’t wait—secure your spot now and grab your free raffle ticket. See you there! 

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 22, 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

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

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!

COMMUNITY

ALUMNI HAPPENINGS

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