December 6, 2024

From the Desk of Superintendent Young

Dear CHS Community,

December has arrived, bringing with it the festive energy that marks the close of 2024 and our second semester. Our calendar is filled with activities that showcase the talents and spirit of our students while bringing our community together.

Winter sports are in full swing, with two significant tournaments ahead: the Al Pinter Wrestling Tournament on December 14 and the Joe LaBella Basketball Tournament on December 21. Our student musicians are preparing for their holiday concerts, with performances scheduled by our middle school and high school orchestra, band, and choir. Tomorrow, December 7, brings the much-anticipated PTO Santa Breakfast, and we look forward to hosting our Senior Citizens for their Winter Concert and Luncheon on December 16.

For our high school students, final exams will take place December 17-19, with winter break beginning December 20. As I drove through our villages in the early morning hours this week, the holiday lights and decorations remind me of what makes this time of year - and our community - so special. The warmth and spirit of our neighborhoods reflect the caring and connected nature of our school district.

Reaching New Heights Together,

Matt Young

Superintendent

CHS TIP OF THE WEEK: Maintaining Momentum Through the Winter Season

As we transition from fall to winter, shorter days and colder weather can impact student energy and engagement. This is the perfect time to refresh our approach to learning and find ways to keep enthusiasm high as we head toward the winter break. Here are strategies to help students stay focused and energized:

Preschool-5th Grade:

1. Create cozy reading nooks at home for winter learning

2. Plan indoor movement breaks between homework sessions

3. Start a winter learning challenge with creative indoor activities

4. Use window-watching time to practice observation and writing skills

6th-8th Grade:

1. Reorganize study spaces to maximize natural light

2. Incorporate seasonal themes into study materials

3. Plan collaborative indoor study sessions with peers

4. Start a winter academic project that sparks passion


9th-12th Grade:

1. Adjust study schedules to make use of daylight hours

2. Set engaging pre-break academic goals

3. Create winter wellness routines that support learning

4. Begin planning for upcoming semester transitions

For All Students:

* Maintain regular physical activity despite weather changes

* Find ways to bring learning outdoors even in cold weather

* Keep consistent sleep schedules despite darker evenings

* Practice winter-themed mindfulness activities

Remember, the change of seasons brings unique opportunities for growth and learning. By adapting our routines and staying proactive, we can maintain strong academic momentum through the winter months ahead.

Our CHampion Staff

Jena Amato
Meet Jena Amato, an Intervention Specialist newly joining the CHS team. With a passion for inclusive education, Jena has been teaching since 2017, after earning her degree in Special Education from Kent State University. Prior to coming to CHS, she taught at Maple Heights City Schools. Outside of the classroom, Jena lives in Parma with her husband, Joe, their two dogs, and a kitty cat. Excitingly, she will be welcoming her first baby, Layla, over winter break. Jena is dedicated to providing a positive learning environment and believes in education for all students.  

Laura Butler
I have been teaching for 17 years, 9 of which have been at Cuyahoga Heights.  I also worked in Cleveland, a school for students with autism and Massillon Perry schools.  I spent 10 years working as an assistant director at Akron Rotary Camp for children and adults with special needs.  I live in Brecksville with my husband Erilk who is a Cleveland firefighter and our 4 kids Brody, RJ, Jace and Brynn.  I enjoy spending time with my crazy family, reading, traveling and camping.  

Rebecca DelRosa
I have been teaching at Cuyahoga Heights Schools for many years, a journey that has been both fulfilling and rewarding. I began my career after earning my bachelor’s degree from Kent State University, spending my first two years teaching in southern Florida. I later pursued a master’s degree in special education at Cleveland State University, which has enriched my ability to support and inspire students. Outside of school, I cherish time with my wonderful family and friends, and I enjoy hiking and biking, often exploring the scenic trails of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Traveling and relaxing by the beach brings me great joy. I feel incredibly grateful to have built my career in such a fantastic school community.

Kristen Dillman
This is my 8th year teaching here at Cuyahoga Heights Elementary School but my 11th year teaching overall. I graduated from Notre Dame College with a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education Pre-K -3, Special Education K-12 Mild to Moderate and a K-12 Reading Specialist.  I also earned my master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Technology.  My husband and I have been married for 8 years and have 2 children, Kennedi who is 5 and started Kindergarten this year and our son, Brady,  who is 2.  Outside of school as a family we love keeping busy with traveling and being active with our kids' activities. 

Lisa Meyer
I have been teaching at Cuyahoga Heights Elementary for many years. I grew up in Independence and always knew that I wanted to teach in a small school district that feels like family. I graduated from Kent State University with a teaching degree and earned a Masters from Cleveland State University. I have been married for 20 years to my husband Mike, who works for Technical Services at the City of Independence. My boys, Charlie and Mitch attend Independence High School. Mike and I spend a lot of time watching and cheering them on during their sporting events. I am always on the go, and I enjoy spending time with family, friends and my 2 cats (Sushi & Ginger).. 

Emma Morrow
I am currently in my second year teaching at Cuyahoga Heights. As a graduate of Cuyahoga Heights myself, I am very grateful to have the opportunity to be able to give back to the place that inspired my educational journey. I graduated from the University of Mount Union. I am passionate about supporting students in grades K-3 to reach their full potential. My goal is to inspire a love of learning, nurture each student’s unique strengths, and create a classroom environment where all learners feel safe, supported, and motivated to achieve their best. In addition to teaching, I have coached girls middle school track. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my boyfriend, Matt, family, friends, running, and reading.

Zach Noernburg
This is my 6th year at Cuyahoga Heights as an Intervention Specialist at the Middle and High School and my 11th year working in education. I graduated from Notre Dame College with a Bachelor’s degree in 2014. I coach football and wrestling for the high school and track for the middle school. I love spending as much time as possible with my wife, Veronica, and my 3 children, Rowan, Ellie and Callahan. My favorite hobby is playing golf. My backup career is to become a professional golfer. I graduated from Cuyahoga Heights in 2010 and had so many amazing teachers and coaches growing up. I looked up to all of them and wanted to become a role model for the younger generations coming through here just like they all were for me. 

Beth Pavic
This is my 10th year at Cuyahoga Heights High School and my 32nd year of teaching. I have co-taught English grades 7-12, American History, Biology, and Algebra. In the last 2 districts in which I was employed, I taught middle school math and reading. I especially enjoy working with high school students to provide services and activities that coincide with their post-secondary goals. I also love teaching literature and writing. I am married with 3 adult children, 3 in-laws, and 6 grandchildren. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, being outdoors, gardening, and reading.

Lyndsey Wisniewski
This is my 12th year teaching but my 4th year at Cuyahoga Heights. I am currently the 7th and 8th grade Intervention Specialist. I graduated from Baldwin Wallace with my Early Childhood Education (PreK-5) undergraduate and continued earning my Masters in Literacy. My passion for education stems from a deep-rooted belief that every challenge we face is an opportunity for growth. I've dedicated my career to helping students navigate their academic journey, firmly believing that the struggles we encounter today build the strength we'll need tomorrow. There's nothing more rewarding than witnessing a student's face light up with pride when they master a concept they once found challenging. I am also excited to share that I recently celebrated getting married this past September! When I'm not in the classroom, you'll find me enjoying the outdoors with my husband, Steven, and our two dogs, Maverick and Kaia. We love watching sports together, hanging out with our families, and hiking with our little family. These adventures help me bring fresh energy and enthusiasm to my daily work with your children.

DISTRICT NEWS

Cuyahoga Heights Elementary got a festive surprise this holiday season when their very own dean of students transformed into “Scottie,” a life-sized elf on the shelf! Students and staff were delighted to see Scottie perched in unexpected places around the school, spreading holiday cheer and a little mischievous fun along the way.

From balancing on bookshelves in the library to "keeping an eye" on good behavior in the cafeteria, Scottie’s antics have brought smiles to everyone who encounters her. “It’s all about creating a magical, joyful environment for the kids,” said the dean, who embraced her elf role with boundless energy and creativity.

Students eagerly search for Scottie each day, wondering where she might appear next. The whimsical tradition adds a special touch to the holiday season, fostering excitement and community spirit throughout the school.

Be sure to check out the pictures of Scottie in action—whether she's offering a festive reminder to stay on the “nice” list or just enjoying the view from a classroom window, her elf-sized adventures are sure to brighten your day!

Important Update for Current Tuition Families:
We are excited to begin the registration process for the 2025-2026 school year at Cuyahoga Heights Local Schools! To help us plan and determine space availability, we ask all families participating in our Tuition Program to complete the Tuition Interest Form by December 20, 2024.

Important Update for Prospective Tuition Families:
If you're interested in joining Cuyahoga Heights Local Schools for the upcoming school year, please note that the completion date of the Tuition Interest Form will serve as your official request date, contingent on space availability. Final enrollment will also require completion of the full registration process, which opens in January 2025.

Whether your student is returning or not, a separate form must be completed for each child. This ensures we have accurate information for planning.

Submit the Tuition Interest Form here: TUITION INTEREST FORM

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

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

The CHHS Music Department will be embarking on a trip to the Windy City on March 28-31, 2026. Any student who will be in grades 9-12, who is in good academic and behavioral standing with the school, and will be enrolled in a music program, during or after school, for the whole year or season, during the 2025-2026 school year will be eligible to go. This includes the curricular Band, Choir, or Orchestra classes, and also includes students in the co-curricular activities Marching Band, Red Rubies, Jazz Band, Scarlet Angels, Electric Orchestra, and Drama Club.

We will have an informational meeting on Tuesday, December 3 at 6 p.m. in the CHHS Media Center (there were some earlier communications that this would occur on Monday, the 2nd, but it was moved to Tuesday, the 3rd). Noteworthy Tours will be there to explain the details of the trip, the payment process, and answer any questions.

If you wish to sign your student up for the trip, please complete the Google Form below by Friday, December 6.

Sign My Student Up for the Trip!

COMMUNITY

Once again this year, all senior citizens are invited to join us for our Annual Senior Citizen Winter Concert & Luncheon! This festive event, hosted by the Class of 2027, will take place on Monday, December 16, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The celebration will begin in the auditorium with a delightful concert performed by our talented students, followed by a warm and welcoming luncheon in the North Gym, just across the hall. It’s a wonderful opportunity to come together, enjoy live music, and connect with friends in the community during this special season.

We ask that attendees kindly RSVP by December 2. If you are a member of a village senior citizen club, please RSVP through your club. If not, feel free to contact Tracy Deal at tdeal@cuyhts.org or (216) 429-5702 to reserve your spot.

Seniors may park along the street in front of the school and enter through the pillar doors (steps) or park behind the school and enter through door #43 to access the elevator.

Please help us spread the word! Share this invitation with friends, family, and any senior citizens who may be interested in joining us for this joyful tradition. We look forward to celebrating with you!

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