April 25, 2025
From the Desk of Superintendent Young
Dear CHS Community,
It was wonderful having everyone back from spring break this week. I hope the time away was restful and rejuvenating for all. Our athletic teams have hit the ground running (some literally), and thankfully, the weather has been cooperating with our outdoor activities.
As April comes to a close and we enter May, the calendar quickly fills with end-of-year events. From spring concerts to promotion ceremonies, senior activities to graduation, and the PTO Red Wolf Run, these final weeks promise to be filled with celebrations of achievement and growth.
Throughout all these activities, our focus remains firmly on our students and their development. These culminating events represent the pinnacle of an entire year's worth of unique and exceptional experiences our students gain at Cuyahoga Heights. Every moment has been building toward helping them realize their potential and preparing them for future success. I continue to be grateful for our community's unwavering support in this mission. Your attendance at events, volunteer hours, and consistent encouragement create an environment where our students can truly thrive.
Reaching New Heights Together,
Matt Young
Superintendent
CHS TIP OF THE WEEK:
Celebrating Individual Strengths and Abilities
Each student brings unique strengths, talents, and abilities to our school community. Recognizing and celebrating these individual differences helps build confidence, motivation, and a positive learning environment. Here are some tips for identifying and nurturing individual strengths:
Preschool-5th Grade:
Create a "strengths spotlight" at home, highlighting different abilities each week
Read books featuring characters with diverse talents and challenges
Provide opportunities to explore various activities and interests
Notice and name specific strengths in everyday situations
6th-8th Grade:
Encourage participation in activities that showcase different intelligences
Discuss how various strengths contribute to team success
Help identify how personal strengths can address challenges
Create opportunities to teach skills to others
9th-12th Grade:
Connect individual strengths to potential career pathways
Encourage leadership roles that utilize personal talents
Discuss how to leverage strengths in college applications
Practice articulating personal abilities in interview settings
For All Students:
Focus on growth within areas of strength, not just improvement of weaknesses
Celebrate the diverse abilities within your family
Recognize that strengths develop at different paces
Appreciate how various abilities contribute to our community
Remember, when we help students identify and develop their unique strengths, we prepare them for success in school and beyond!
Students of the Month - April
Cuyahoga Heights Schools proudly announces the April 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, April 23. This monthly recognition highlights our students' diverse talents and dedication throughout the school year. Congratulations to all!
PreKindergarten
Raelyn Moriarity
Collin Clemence
6th Grade
Lincoln Candow
7th Grade
Julia Nichols
8th Grade
Madeline Smith
9th Grade
Jhordan Thompson
10th Grade
Jemma D'Amico
11th Grade
Tristan West
12th Grade
Nick Dabrowski
Commencement Countdown Begins!
The 2025 High School Commencement is fast approaching, and excitement is building as we prepare to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2025. As we head into the final stretch of the school year, please refer to the attached Notable Dates page for a complete list of important events and activities. From senior celebrations to graduation rehearsal and the big day itself, there’s a lot to look forward to. Let’s finish strong and make these final weeks memorable.
Spring
Mon 5/12 6:00-8:00 (English)
Tues 5/13 6:00-8:00 (Math)
Mon 5/19 6:00-8:00 (Reading)
Tues 5/20 6:00-8:00 (Science)
Summer
Wed 7/9 9:00-12:00 (Science)
Wed 7/16 9:00-12:00 (Math)
Wed 7/23 9:00-12:00 (English)
Wed 7/31 9:00-12:00 (Reading)
Sun 8/10 2:00-5:30 (Full Practice Test)
ACT Prep
Current: Freshman | Sophomores | Juniors
The teachers at Cuyahoga Heights High School are donating their time to offer ACT Prep Classes for current Freshman, Sophomores and Juniors.
In the spring sessions, students will get test taking tips by subject, take a practice test in that subject, and then review the test.
In the summer sessions, students will receive more extensive test taking tips by subject, take a practice test in that subject, and review the test.
On August 10th, students will take a full-length practice test (all 4 subjects) and get scaled scores.
These courses are free but require the purchase of the book. You can purchase it on Amazon by clicking here: The Princeton Review 2025 ACT Review.
Please call Mrs. Connors in the main office at 216-429-5708 to register your child for one or all of the available dates.
CHS 2026 Music Trip - Chipotle Fundraiser
Support the CHS Music Department’s trip to Chicago next spring by grabbing dinner at Chipotle!
Tuesday, May 6
5:00–9:00 PM
9761 Vista Way, Garfield Heights, OH
Order in person and show the flyer, or order online using code KLYMJP9 at checkout. Every bite helps us get closer to the Windy City—thank you for your support!
District Track Meet
Our school will once again host the Division III District Track Meet on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. To accommodate team arrivals, spectator parking, and facility preparation, we will operate on an early release schedule that day:
Middle/High School students will be dismissed at 11:20 a.m.
Elementary School students will be dismissed at 12:20 p.m.
We are sharing this information in advance so you can make any necessary arrangements. Thank you for your understanding and support.
S.O.S. (Save Old Shoes)
The Blue Wave Swim Team wants your shoes! The Swim Team is running a gently worn, used, and new shoe drive now through the end of May. As you start your spring cleaning, keep Blue Wave in mind! We will gladly take your old shoes off your hands...well, feet!
Contact swimteamnews@gmail.com, and a team member will arrange a time to pick up all donations. Drop-off bins are also located at Valley View Rec Center and Walton Hills Community Center.
Inclusive Sports Day
On April 23, schools across the Cleveland area united for Inclusive Sports Day—a celebration of athleticism, teamwork, and the spirit of inclusion among students in local special education programs. Participants from various schools took part in adapted activities like football and kickball, thoughtfully designed to support a wide range of abilities.
The event focused on collaboration, encouraging students of all skill levels to work together in team-based games. Hosted by Hawken Upper School, the Empower Sports event fostered a strong sense of community and underscored the value of inclusive physical education. Volunteers, including Hawken students, played a vital role in supporting the day’s activities and creating a welcoming, encouraging environment.
Cuyahoga Heights Schools was proud to be part of this uplifting and inspiring day!
PTO Red Wolf Run - Sponsorships Close TONIGHT 4/25
The opportunity to include your family name and/or company logo on the back of every runner's t-shirt ends tonight at midnight.
Time is running out; sign up now at [https://chspto.ptboard.com/formvw/store?store=5029].
Fundraising Incentives
The event committee has been working hard and is proud to offer the following incentives.
Event Run Schedule
Please see the run schedule below. All volunteers & spectators must check in upon arrival on site. Look forward to cheering on your favorite runners, cash concessions, 50/50, and raffle baskets! Questions? Please email: chspto.vp216@gmail.com
Support Our Staff: Three Ways to Help During Staff Appreciation Week
Here are three ways that you can help:
Goodie Bags
We will be creating individual goodie bags with sweet and savory treats for the staff to enjoy. We are looking for donations to fill the goodie bags. Please sign up for items in the link below. All items will be collected in the Elementary or Middle/High school office from April 7- May 2.
Spin the Wheel and Win a Prize
Supply Cart Edition: During Staff Appreciation Week, we will drop in classrooms and let teachers “Spin the Wheel” to win supplies. We are looking for donations for the supply cart. Please sign up for items in the link below. All items will be collected in the Elementary or Middle/High school office from April 7- May 2.
Recess Duty
Give the teachers a well-deserved rest and volunteer to monitor a recess. Signups will be coming for this later.
If you have any questions regarding Staff Appreciation Week, feel free to contact Elicia Lamirand (440-666-6101) or Nicolle Huffman (330-607-5042).
Thank you for supporting the best staff in The Land!
To see items needed and/or sign up to donate use the link below:
https://chspto.ptboard.com/sgnvw?signup=98d69453-396a-445a-9012-e2a016de63fe~s.9223370293156595371
Congratulations Coleen Murray!
Since joining the district as a substitute bus attendant in 2019, Coleen Murray has remained true to the core values of Cuyahoga Heights Schools: helping students to create meaningful, engaging learning experiences.
Future Red Rubies Dance and Twirl Clinic
Join us for the Red Rubies Drill Team Dance & Twirl Clinic. This event is for students in Kindergarten-8th Grade. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. Athletes will be grouped by age and ability. You do not need to be a CHS student to attend.
Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 9am-12pm
Time: Parent Showcase promptly at 12:00
Location: Cuyahoga Heights HS Gym - 4840 E 71st St, Cleveland, OH 44125
Cost: $25
Register by: May 5, 2025 (signups after 4/29 are not guaranteed a t-shirt)
Registration Includes: t-shirt, snack, and instruction from the team on dance, baton, and flag & performance for parents.
Payment: cash, check, Venmo or Paypal (cash in envelope with student name)
Checks made out to: CHS Music Boosters
*All students must be registered to attend. Your spot and shirt order will only be confirmed after payment is received.
Schedule: 8:45-9:00 am - Check-in
Introductions & Warm-up
Jazz Pom Dance Combo, Color Guard Flag, or Twirling Combo
SNACK
Jazz Pom Dance Combo, Color Guard Flag, or Twirling Combo
Jazz Pom Dance Combo, Color Guard Flag, or Twirling Combo
Parent Showcase: 12:00 pm - Parent Showcase / Q&A / Announcements
Attire: Please wear a comfortable outfit to move & dance in (preferably red and black!)
Shoes: Any dance shoe or sneakers (no socks, crocs, sandals, or bare feet permitted)
Hair: Can be worn however the student is most comfortable, out of face.
Please bring: a water bottle
Questions: Contact Coach Chelsey Kovar ckovar@cuyhts.org
JOIN THE RED RUBIES DRILL TEAM
Thinking about joining the CHS Red Rubies Drill Team? The Rubies are accepting students in grades 8-12 for the 2025-2026 year. The Cuyahoga Heights Red Rubies Drill Team are looking for new members to join our high energy performance team for the 2025-2026 season! Our team performs during halftime at home and away varsity football games with other performance opportunities throughout the year. As a drill team, the Rubies perform in a variety of styles including jazz/pom dance, color guard and baton. Please join us for our team info meeting, Wednesday, April 30 from 3:00-4:00 in the Orchestra Room. We will go over everything you need to know about being part of the team, answer questions, learn a few fun skills and discuss summer and fall schedules! Ready to join? Please fill out the form below. I can't wait to watch you sparkle under the Friday night lights! Form: www.tinyurl.com/rrdt25 Questions? Contact Coach Chelsey Kovar ckovar@cuyhts.org
Congratulations to 7th Grader Alaina Lawrence!
Alaina competed at the USA Gymnastics Level 9 Regionals last weekend, where her outstanding 9.475 vault earned her 3rd place and a well-deserved spot on the Dream Team! She will represent at Nationals on May 2nd in Battle Creek, Michigan.
Alaina continues to compete in the HOPES program and is excited to take on Level 10 next season.
Good luck, Alaina — we’re cheering you on!
Shai Shines at Penn State New Kensington
We’re proud to highlight Class of 2024 graduate Shai, who is off to an impressive start in her freshman year at Penn State New Kensington! Shai is making waves on the softball field, currently holding the highest batting average on her team. She’s been unstoppable at the plate, going 8-for-8 in recent games.
Off the field, Shai is just as dedicated—she’s currently studying secondary education (Biology) and maintaining a strong 3.8 GPA while balancing academics and athletics. We’re excited to see all that she continues to accomplish—both on and off the field!
Volunteer | Participate | Donate
Jacobs Ladder Special Needs Fitness Annual Bike Ride
Date: June 8, 2025
Location: Start at Bacci Park
Ride Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am
Volunteer Time: 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Lunch: 2:00 pm
For more information, please contact:
Tony D'Orazio
440-225-2365
tdorazio@att.net
Dan D'Orazio
440-670-1151
danjdorazio@gmail.com
Walton Hills Parker & Jr. Parker Summer Camp 2025
Campers can be ages 5 – 15 (5 year olds must be entering 1st grade in the fall)
Activities include going to the Walton Hills Lake Club twice a week, a field trip once a week, golf lessons (extra charge), arts, crafts, and games.
Status
Full time is a 7-week program
Part time is a 1-6 week program
Registration ends April 11, after this time a late fee will be assessed.
Contact recreation@waltonhillsohio.gov for more information.
4820 East 71st Street | Cuyahoga Heights, OH 44125 | 216-429-5700