August 29, 2025
From the Desk of Superintendent Young
Dear CHS Community,
All grade levels PreK-12 were back in our buildings this week, and students and staff are settling in nicely for what promises to be a great school year. In case you missed it, last week US News & World Report ranked Cuyahoga Heights High School among the top 4% of nearly 18,000 public high schools in the nation. This recognition reflects our tremendous educational community and demonstrates that we continue reaching new heights.
Next Thursday features our CHES Parent Information Night and our Gifted Services Presentation. We also have a full schedule of athletic events throughout the week. Please check the district website for times and locations of all upcoming events.
As we close out August with hints of fall weather in the air, we prepare for Labor Day on Monday when school will be closed for the holiday. It is hard to believe September is already here. I wish everyone a great holiday weekend with friends and family.
Reaching New Heights Together,
Matt Young
Superintendent
CHS Tip of the Week:
Establishing Morning and Evening Routines for Success
Consistent daily routines provide structure and predictability that help students manage their time effectively and reduce stress throughout the school year. Well-established morning and evening routines create a framework for success by ensuring students are prepared, focused, and ready to learn each day. These routines also teach important life skills like time management, responsibility, and self-care that will benefit students long beyond their school years. Here are some strategies for creating effective daily routines:
Preschool-5th Grade:
Create a visual checklist for morning tasks like brushing teeth and packing backpacks
Lay out clothes and prepare school materials the night before
Establish a consistent bedtime routine with reading time
Set up a designated spot for backpacks, shoes, and important papers
6th-8th Grade:
Use alarms or timers to help manage morning time effectively
Create an evening routine that includes reviewing the next day's schedule
Establish a consistent homework time and location
Pack backpacks and charge devices each evening
9th-12th Grade:
Develop independence by taking responsibility for their own morning preparation
Create study schedules that work with their natural energy patterns
Use digital tools to organize assignments and track deadlines
Balance academic responsibilities with adequate sleep and self-care
For All Students:
Start and end each day at consistent times
Build in time for healthy meals and physical activity
Create buffer time to avoid rushing and stress
Regularly evaluate and adjust routines as needed
Remember, routines take time to establish but become automatic with practice. Consistency now creates habits that support success throughout the school year.
Keeping HEIGHTS Connected
Behind every smooth lesson, every working Chromebook, and every secure network connection stands our Cuyahoga Heights Technology Department. This dedicated team keeps our classrooms running seamlessly, troubleshooting issues big and small, upgrading systems, and ensuring our students and staff have the tools they need to thrive in a digital world. Whether it’s rolling out new devices, maintaining reliable Wi-Fi, or rescuing us from those dreaded “blue screen” moments, our tech staff goes above and beyond every day—often behind the scenes, but always with a big impact.
Click on the fun fact under each assistant’s photo to learn something about them!
Gifted Unpacked: Services, Support, and Success
An Information Session about “All Things Gifted”
Who should attend: Any Parent who is interested in knowing more about our gifted services
Date: Thursday, September 4, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: High School Auditorium
What to Expect
Learn about gifted identification and services available in our district
Explore resources and supports available to students
Identify ways to support your high-ability or gifted learner at home
Ask questions and connect directly with our Gifted Coordinator, Amy Harker
Why Attend?
This session is designed for any parent or guardian who wants to better understand gifted education in our schools and discover ways we can partner to support and challenge gifted learners.
Resources You may also review our District Gifted and Acceleration Plan here: Cuyahoga Heights District Gifted Plan 24-25.pdf
Any questions, reach out to Mrs. Harker at aharker@cuyhts.org
Seniors Shine at Car Wash Fundraiser
On August 23, the senior class hosted a car wash at Quaker Steak on Canal. Working hard and fueled by plenty of school spirit, the group raised more than $900 in just four hours through donations only. The money will go directly toward their after prom and senior picnic.
A big thank-you goes out to everyone who stopped by to support our seniors! The following students volunteered their time and energy to make the event such a success:
Ana Ratkosky, Danny Cichocki, Mari Hopkins, Camryn Barnes, Brooklyn Armontrout, Jade Henry, Ryleigh Ressler, Lily Nichols, Ava Brych, Hannah Jasany, and Hiedi Stiegelmeyer.
Class of 2025 Mum Sale
Mums / Straw Bales / Cornstalks / Kale / Cabbage
The Senior Class is once again partnering with Dean’s Greenhouse for our annual mum sale. Orders will be accepted from Monday, August 25 through Friday, September 5, with pickup scheduled for Thursday, September 18 at Klima Gardens. Thank you for supporting our seniors!
*Place your order with a senior or return form to office
Flyer
A Generous Gift to Our Track & Field Program
Cuyahoga Heights alumnus Mr. Doug Glass (Class of 1973) recently donated over $2,000 worth of international-grade starting blocks to our track and field program! Mr. Glass not only serves as the main starter at our home meets, but he is also an internationally recognized track and field official who works events across the globe.
We are incredibly grateful for his generosity, as well as the countless hours of time, dedication, and expertise he has shared with our program over the years. Thank you, Mr. Glass, for your continued support and commitment to our athletes!
🎶 Join Us for the 2025–2026 Fall Cuyahoga Heights Music Boosters General Meeting!
Attention all music lovers and supporters of Cuyahoga Heights students! The Music Boosters General Meeting is just around the corner. Whether you're a parent, family member, or community member, we invite you to attend and learn more about the exciting opportunities ahead for our talented student musicians.
🗓️ Date & Time: Tuesday, September 9th at 5:30 PM Location: Ray Bahner Media Center
This meeting is a fantastic chance to get involved and make a positive impact on the music program.
💡 Why Should You Attend? Involvement with the Music Boosters directly benefits our music program and supports the students who participate. Your participation helps enhance the quality of performances, provides much-needed support for student musicians and drama club members, and fosters a strong community spirit.
We encourage everyone to attend—whether you’re a first-time attendee or a returning member, your input matters!
📱 Ready to Join? You can scan the QR code on the flier to become a member or learn more about how you can contribute to our program.
We look forward to seeing you there and building a stronger music community together!
Band on Demand Tickets are Back!
Get ready to experience the music magic with the Mighty Marching Red Wolves in an exciting new way! The Cuyahoga Heights Music Boosters are thrilled to announce Band on Demand — an exclusive opportunity for families and community members to enjoy a live performance by the Mighty Marching Red Wolves at your home or at a park within the district.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, September 26th, 2025 (Rain Date: October 10th, 2025)
Time: Around 4:30 PM
Location: At your home or a nearby park within the district
Ticket Price: $5 each or five tickets for $20!
This is a fantastic way to bring the sounds of the Mighty Marching Red Wolves right to your doorstep! Whether it's a private performance at your home or a fun event in the park, don't miss out on this unique experience.
How to Buy Tickets: Visit: cuyhtsmusic.ptboard.com Or scan the QR code on the flier for easy access to ticket sales.
We thank you for supporting the CHS Music/Drama Teachers and Students—your participation helps keep music alive in our schools!
PTO District Family Tailgate | Fri. Sept. 12th 5:30-7:00 PM
Come show your school spirit at the CHS PTO Family Tailgate!
Friday, September 12th | 5:30–7:00 PM | CHES Rear Lot
All families (ES/MS/HS) are welcome—please RSVP for planning purposes.
Free Entry! Each guest will receive a hot dog, chips, and a drink (while supplies last).
Most games and activities are free; select games and raffles are cash pay-to-play fundraisers.
Plenty of PTO merch will also be available for purchase.
Enjoy an evening of food, games, music, raffles, and a 50/50 drawing, plus a special performance by the Mighty Marching Band and Red Rubies. It’s a wonderful chance to connect with other families, meet new friends, and celebrate the start of a great school year.
After the Family Tailgate, head over to cheer on the Red Wolves Varsity Football Team at the Homecoming Game!
Ticket information: https://events.hometownticketing.com/boxoffice/cuyhts
RSVP Deadline: September 7, 2025 https://chspto.ptboard.com/formvw?store=6414&form=5
Pre-Sale 50/50 Raffle by 9/10: https://chspto.ptboard.com/formvw?store=6414&form=6
Volunteer: https://chspto.ptboard.com/sgnvw?signup=121dbf26-f172-4745-a019-9f77bfeb9e9e~s.9223370280496944527&group=null
Transportation Information
Stopfinder App (Bus Tracking)
Parents of Bus Riders use StopFinder to:
View and share your student’s schedule with caregivers, and create GeoAlerts with configurable ETA alerts.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Parents cannot set up the app or login until you receive an activation email from our transportation department. This email was emailed to the student's PRIMARY contact on August 13. (Please be sure to check your SPAM)
Transportation Guidelines
It is essential for both riders and parents to read the Transportation Guidelines to understand the expectations when boarding, riding, and exiting the school bus.
Bus Routes
The 2025-26 bus routes are here. Our transportation department has been busy planning and organizing and is now eager to get rollin'. As the new school year approaches, we would like to ask for your patience in advance as we work out all of the initial kinks. Route times are subject to change at the beginning of the school year as we adjust for ridership. We encourage you to check the transportation web page for updates.
Bus Route Schedule AM
Bus Route Schedule PM
Report Student Absence, Late Arrival, Early Release
School Dismissal Manager App
We continue to use the School Dismissal Manager app across our campus to help streamline communication between home and school. With this app, parents can:
Make "exceptions" (changes) to a student's transportation schedule
Report student absence and late arrivals
Schedule early releases from school
Schedule student attendance at after school activities
Use School Dismissal Manager to Call Off My Student
How to Add a Parent/Guardian to SDM
FAQ
IMPORTANT: Elementary uses SDM for daily attendance & dismissal. Middle/High uses SDM for daily attendance only.
Lunch Information
PaySchools Central
PaySchools Central is your one stop shop for anything lunch related. Choose "Menu" at the tp of our web page
Free & Reduced Lunch Application
Free and Reduced Lunch applications are now available online!
To apply, visit our website and navigate to PaySchools Central. There, you’ll find both the online application and printable versions.
Important: Be sure to sign your application—unsigned forms cannot be processed. Once submitted, a determination letter will appear at the end of the process.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact Pam Meade at 216-429-5736 or pmeade@cuyhts.org.
All information is kept strictly confidential.
My School Menu
Choose your school building from the dropdown and then select Cafe of the Day (rotating menu) or Daily Options (individual items) to view offerings.
Add Funds to Lunch Account
PaySchools Central App
Download the PaySchools Central App to add funds to your student's lunch account. You may also send a check (made out to Cuyahoga Heights BOE) or cash to the main office to be deposited into your student's account the next day.
Download Our App
Cuyahoga Heights Schools App
Access Student Grades
ProgressBook
Parents can keep up-to-date on student grades by logging into ProgressBook Parent Access.
All parents who are NEW to the district will receive a Parent Access Code via email. All contact information in ProgressBook is generated from FinalForms. If you are a new parent and are still in need of a Registration Key, please submit an IT support ticket.
Update Student Information
FinalForms
All contact information should be updated in FinalForms.
Parents can update Information (i.e., changes to address, email address, phone, contacts, medical information, etc.) at any time. District messages are sent using the email address and phone number that you have provided in FinalForms. The contact information that you provide in FinalForms is then pushed through to ProgressBook.
Get Help With Technology
Incident IQ
All parent/student technology issues should be reported in Incident IQ by putting in a "ticket".
Should a technology issue (i.e., issues with Chromebook, login, student email, etc.) arise, our technology department is here to help. Just click on the link to put in a ticket describing your issue.
OTHER Important Information
Incoming 7th Graders Summer Reading Incentive
Soak up the sun and a good story this summer! Whether you devour a whole stack or just sneak in one great read, make sure a book makes it into your summer plans.
The Child Find process assists with:
Locating, evaluating, and identifying children with suspected disabilities who may be in need of special education and related services
CHS PTO Welcome Back Checklist
An exciting new school year is ahead! The PTO is ready to bring our students another year full of fun events and memorable experiences - but we can’t do it without your support! Get involved and help make this school year the best one yet!
Explore the following links to learn more about current support opportunities:
Contact Sign Up: https://chspto.ptboard.com/sgnvw?signup=121dbf26-f172-4745-a019-9f77bfeb9e9e~s.9223370282329582132
Membership Sign Up: https://chspto.ptboard.com/formvw?store=6414&form=2
Box Tops Sign Up: https://www.boxtop
City of Garfield Heights Announces Ice Skating & Hockey Programs
4820 East 71st Street | Cuyahoga Heights, OH 44125 | 216-429-5700