Ofalls' Blog

Parent Update – April 11, 2012

April 11, 2012 Todd F. Hoadley Comments off

OFMS STUDENTS CATCH “THE HUNGER GAMES” FEVER – MORE THAN 380 STUDENTS & PARENTS ATTEND PRIVATE OPENING DAY SCREENING!

It has been hard to escape the buzz over the newly released movie, “The Hunger Games,” which is based on the book trilogy of the same name by television writer and novelist Suzanne Collins. At Olmsted Falls Middle School, excitement over the new movie was at an all-time high among students who had avidly read the series of books over the course of the year. Middle School teacher Mrs. Robyn Tenerowicz could not let all that great excitement and energy go to waste.

Mrs. Tenerowicz coordinated with Regal Cinemas corporate headquarters in Denver, Colorado, to arrange for a special screening exclusively for Bulldogs on Friday, March 23rd – the date of the movie’s official release to the public. Reserving two full theaters with her own credit card, Mrs. Tenerowicz was confident that she’d easily pack the house with excited students and parents! And she was right!

More than 380 students and parents attended the private screenings at the Regal Cinemas in Middleburg Heights! Students and staff filled five buses after school the Friday before spring break for the journey down Bagley Road to the theaters! Waiting for them in the parking lot were approximately 60 parents, who were also excited to attend the private screening with their children. One parent remarked that it had been a long time since her child wanted to go to the movies together – and that this special screening event was building connections within families and among the community!

Mrs. Tenerowicz dressed as a character from the movie for the event!

This unique field trip – including transportation costs – was paid for entirely by those who attended!

Kudos again to Mrs. Tenerowicz for making this creative connection available for students and families! Her efforts have brought the pages of a book to life for students (and parents), and helped foster a life-long love of reading!

Kudos to our students for being so engaged in and excited by the books you are reading!

Keep turning those pages Bulldogs!

To view additional photos from “The Hunger Games” field trip, please click HERE.

DISTRICT POSTS LISTING OF CURRENT JOB VACANCIES FOR 2012-2013 SCHOOL YEAR

Olmsted Falls City Schools currently has job vacancies for Certified, Classified and Exempt positions for next school year, 2012-2013. To view the list of vacancies, please click here. Applications for all vacancies are submitted on-line.

Positions are posted as they become available, so those interested in the latest job posting information are encouraged to visit our website periodically. Please visit www.ofcs.net and click on the “Employment” link. Please note that if you have already applied on-line and later see another position that interests you, you may return to your existing application and update it to include the new posting.

OFHS AMONG TOP SCORING SCHOOLS IN ANNUAL OHIO MATH LEAGUE STANDINGS

The OFHS team of honors math students did well against some of the finest public and private schools in Ohio. Outstanding performances were achieved by the following students throughout the school year: Mitchell Zehe, Kevin Thompson, Megan Doherty, Marty Mendenhall, Dan Becker, Andrew Zitnik, David Lance, Rachel DuBois, Erin Hoadley, Sohan Vartak, Olivia Henton, Matt Wachowiak, Tom Hoy, Brad Sevcik, and Kevin Candow. Congratulations to these outstanding students and to the OFHS Math Department!

To view the final team standing for OFHS in the Ohio Mathematics League for 2011-2012, please click HERE.

BULLDOG ALUMNI SPEAKS AT OFMS

The 8th Grade Blue Team had former student Stewart Hodges speak to them during STAR classes during the month of March, about his challenges as a person with special needs. Stewart’s message tied in very tightly with the Rachel’s Challenge mission to “inspire, equip and empower every person to create a permanent positive culture” in the school and community setting.

OFMS STUDENT COMPETES AT STATE LEVEL

8th Grader Matt Harris competed at the 24th annual state-wide geography bee at The Ohio State University – Mansfield campus on Friday, March 30th. Harris competed against one-hundred-four other students from grades four through eight. Although he did not proceed to the final round, Matt represented Olmsted Falls very proudly! Congratulations Matt!

HONORABLE SPEAKERS PREPARE OFMS 8th GRADERS FOR WASHINGTON D.C. TRIP

Pictured from left to right: Mrs. Cibulskas, Mr. Bristow, Mrs. Gross, and Mr. Smith

To prepare the OFMS eighth graders for the adventures in Washington D.C., lessons were arranged to provide the students with knowledge and understanding of the trip that they were about to endeavor. Part of the day involved speaker presentations from a WWII veteran, Mr. Bristow and Vietnam veteran, Mr. Smith. Mr. Bristow is a retired educator from the Fairview Park City Schools who now resides in Brunswick. He earned a Bronze Star for his service and spoke to the students about his experiences in Germany. Mr. Smith is a paraprofessional at OFMS and is a familiar face to the students. Although, students may know him by passing him in the hallway, they were able to gain a prospective of his life in the military fighting for our country at Vietnam. Both speakers focused their presentations about their experiences and what the memorials at Washington D.C. means for the people and the veterans that visit them.

Don’t miss next week’s blog for a recap of the OFMS Washington D.C. trip – including photo gallery!

DON’T MISS OFHS MASQUERS PRODUCTION OF “CINDERELLA” – APRIL 20TH & 21ST!

OFHS Masquers is proud to present Rodger’s and Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA.

Shows are scheduled for April 20th and 21st at 7:30p.m. in the high school auditorium.

Come out and enjoy our talented drama students for a performance of this family-friendly classic!

The cast of CINDERELLA includes:

Angela Cole (senior) as Cinderella; Joe Gibson (sophomore) as Prince; Maggie Englehart (senior) as Stepmother; Maggie Winterich (senior) as Joy; Jillian Mesaros (senior) as Grace; Arrianna Robinson (junior) as Fairy Godmother; Cecelia Dahlinger (sophomore) as Queen; Richie Mendenhall (senior) as King; Ed Gorski (junior) as Lionel; plus a large ensemble cast!

Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students/senior citizens. Tickets may be purchased in advance by calling Mrs. Leslie Pickenheim at 440.427.6070. Tickets are going fast and a sell-out crowd is expected! Don’t miss out! Get your tickets today!

OFMS PRESENTS GODSPELL JR. APRIL 25th – 27th

Students at the Middle School have been busy rehearsing for the spring musical, Godspell Jr. Performances will be April 25th, 26th, and 27th at 7:00 p.m. in the Middle School cafetorium.

Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children, students, and seniors.

ALL-U-CAN EAT WINGS, PIZZA & DRINKS TO SUPPORT THE 2011 STATE CHAMPIONS – THIS FRIDAY, APRIL 13TH

A fundraiser to support travel for the Olmsted Falls Academic Team (OFAT) will be held at Razzles on THIS FRIDAY, April 13, 8-10 p.m. We’ll also have an auction with great items from OF companies, sideboards, and more!

Families welcome! Kids under 6 FREE. $20 tickets available from OFAT members, coaches, or at door. Or contact mendykin@aol.com; 440-234-7964.

Thanks for supporting academics—the key to the future. Did you know our academic team does more than appear on the Academic Challenge TV show? They actually compete most weekends from mid-October through May all over the state and in West Virginia. They’ve already qualified one team to compete at the National Tournament in Atlanta! They need our help to offset travel expenses.

Check out the new Olmsted Falls Academic Boosters Club Facebook page! Post congrats to your student for his/her academic accomplishments. Like us!

3rd ANNUAL BALLROOM BLITZ – THIS SATURDAY, APRIL 14TH

The event includes desserts , dancing, soft drinks, door prizes, basket raffles, and a Grand Raffle for a new IPAD!

All proceeds go to the promotion and enhancement of the music experience for Olmsted Falls music students district-wide.

Tickets are $10 per person; purchase 8 tickets to reserve a table in your name. For tickets or more information, contact Don Woods ofmamusic@gmail.com 440-915-1241 or Michelle Neudeck neudeck@cox.net 440-596-1802. Please click HERE for the flyer.

BOOK FAIR AT FALLS-LENOX NEXT WEEK!

Falls-Lenox annual Scholastic Book Fair is being held April 16th – April 20th in the Falls-Lenox Library.

Please mark your calendar with the following schedule and plan to stop by:

Monday through Friday – 11a.m. to12:30 p.m.

Monday and Wednesday – 2:30 to 4 p.m.

Tuesday and Thursday – 6 to 8 p.m.

There will also be a bake sale Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. All money raised will go toward One For Books. Thanks!

NOMINATE A PTA VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR!

It’s PTA volunteer of the year nomination time! Hopefully, each PTA unit is currently in the process of nominating one or more PTA members who have gone “above and beyond” in volunteering their time and talents to better their child(ren)’s home, school and community experience during this school year.

By the end of April, each PTA unit will choose a nominee to be sent to PTA council, who will in turn vote on May 4th to determine this year’s volunteer of the year. The winner will be announced at the annual PTA volunteer dinner at the end of May. Upcoming PTA meetings include:

4/12 OECPTA Meeting at 7 pm **TOMORROW NIGHT**

4/17 OFIS PTA Meeting at 7 pm

4/24 Falls-Lenox/ECC PTA Meeting at 7 pm

4/30 OFHS PTA Meeting at 7 pm

If you would like to still nominate someone for your PTA unit, please click HERE to download the form. You will need to include the nominee’s name, PTA experience/offices held, community involvement and a brief statement of recommendation. Forms may be turned in at any of the PTA meetings listed above. Please contact your PTA unit president or Ann Simon at simon@stratos.net if you have any further questions. Thanks for all your help!

OLMSTED FALLS POST PROM COMMITTEE FUNDRAISERS

Dodge Ball Tournament: April 19th, 2012 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. in the Olmsted Falls High School Gymnasium for 9th grade through 12th grade students. Prizes for the 1st place team and the best team costume. Half time activities for prizes. You will need five members per team and the team entry is $25.00. Teams can sign up during lunch time in the High school cafeteria beginning April 4th through April 18th. Tickets are $2.00 and will be on sale at the High school cafeteria during lunch hours. All proceeds will benefit 2012 Post Prom event. For more information please contact Lisa Hansinger @ 235-3029.

Fundraiser/Raffle: April 28th, 2012 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. @ Slim n Chubby’s (12492 Prospect Rd., Strongsville, OH. All you can eat Wings, Boneless Wings, Hot Dogs, Meatballs, Rigatoni and Cheesy Potatoes, BBQ meatballs. All you can drink Draft beer, Wine, Well mixed drinks, Pop, Coffee and Juice. Over 25 Chinese raffle baskets, 50/50 side boards. Tickets are $20.00 each. All proceeds will benefit 2012 Post Prom event. Please contact Teri Petro @ 236-6482.

ATHLETIC BOOSTERS’ NIGHT AT THE RACES – APRIL 21st!

One of OFAB’s biggest fundraisers is right around the corner – Night at the Races being held April 21 at the German American Cultural Center. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and races start at 8:00 p.m. Here’s how you can help make it a huge success:

1. Purchase tickets to attend. Table of 8 is $240 ($30/person) and includes buffet dinner, pop, draft. Contact Dave Kurz (440-263-0051). Call soon as tables sell out!

2. Sponsor a horse. It’s fun and you have a chance to win $50. We need your horse order form (attached) and $30 payment by April 6. Horse sponsors are recognized in the Night at the Races program. Have questions? Call Shelly Mitchell (216-570-6370) or Lisa Hanna (440-427-0551).

3. Purchase an ad for the program. Contact Ken Fox (440-391-0624) for details. Ad deadline date is April 6. Ad costs: Full page ad- $100; 1/2-page ad – $50; and business card sized ad – $25.

4. Donate a door prize or gift basket. Additional money is raised at the event through gift basket and big ticket item raffles. Please contact Jim Polcar (440-235-7156) if you have something you would like to donate. Donations are due April 6 so we can recognize the donors in the Night at the Race program.

Visit our website for the official Night at the Races flyer and our horse form!

MIDDLE SCHOOL BULLDOG STARS OF THE WEEK

A bulldog star has shown exemplary Bulldog Spirit either academically or socially within our school community.

Please click here for this week’s Stars of the Week.

5TH ANNUAL MIDDLE SCHOOL PTA CALENDAR RAFFLE – GET YOURS TODAY!

Help support the Middle School PTA by purchasing an entry in our 5^th Annual Calendar Raffle. For $5.00 you are entered for a chance to win 31 days of great prizes. We will pull a different winner every day and a list of winners will be posted weekly on this blog. You may enter as many times as you like.

Entry forms and cash or a check (made out to MS PTA) can be turned in at any of the school main offices. Take a chance. We have Indians and Monsters tickets, along with many other great prizes. The calendars will be coming home with the K-8^th grade students this week. You can also download a copy of the calendar by clicking HERE. Thanks for your support!

CUYAHOGA COUNTY LIBRARY SEEKS YOUR FEEDBACK

Cuyahoga County Public Library is starting its next strategic plan. The process is being called, “The Next Chapter @ Your Library.” All residents are invited to participate in an online survey and, if possible, library focus groups. Please click HERE for more information.

Focus group dates and times @ the North Olmsted Branch are as follows:

Focus Group for everyone Friday April 27^th/ 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.

Focus Group for Parents Thursday May 3^rd/4:00 p.m.

Focus Group for New Americans Friday May 4^th /11:00 a.m.

OFHS ART DEPARTMENT SEEKING ENTRIES FOR ANNUAL MAY ART SHOW

The Olmsted Falls High School Art Department would again like to invite alumni, district staff, and community members to participate in the Annual May Show. This year the show is on Friday, May 11th. We have plenty of space to accommodate 2-D work as well as some 3-D work. Please limit your entries to 3 pieces max (a series counts as one piece). Please keep in mind this show is viewed by students, district staff, and community members. We reserve the right to reject any entries that are deemed inappropriate.

If you are interested in participating, please click here to download an entry form. Completed forms should be sent back to Mariel Krakowiak at Olmsted Falls High School (mkrakowiak@ofcs.net). Thank you.

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 2012 CLEVELAND NATIONAL COLLEGE FAIR

The 2012 Cleveland National College Fair will be held on April 22, 2012 at the Cleveland State University Wolstein Center. Doors open at 1:00 p.m. and will close at 4:00 p.m. Over 190 admission representatives will be in attendance from colleges across the nation. Students are encouraged to pre-register for the fair at the following website: www.gotomyncf.com

You can download a poster of the college fair with a listing of colleges that will be in attendance by clicking HERE. If you have any questions, please contact Andrea Tracy: atracy@leaf-ohio.org or Donna Pugh Blevins: Donna.PughBlevins@ndcl.org

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES, EVENTS & FUNDRAISERS:

2ND ANNUAL CARNIVAL FOR A CURE: A FALLS-LENOX CARNIVAL NIGHT AND MINI “RELAY” – THIS FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012 FROM 6 – 9 P.M.

Hope to see everyone there! All welcome – even if you hadn’t planned on coming originally, but now can! Join us for the fun!

Summer Gedanken Institute for Students 12-17 Years old – July 9th – 13th at Baldwin-Wallace College - In its 11th year, this class is a fun yet intense focus on problem-solving with an emphasis on developing both mental stamina and strength. Topics will include: Risk Management, Pattern Recognition, Operations Research, Logic, Probability, Physics, Geometry and a large variety of puzzles including Rubik’s Cube. The program is a week-long course that will be conducted from 9:00 am to 4:30 p.m. daily from July 9th through July 13th at Baldwin-Wallace. (The course will also be offered August 6th through August 10th at Lakeside.) The course is designed for the intellectually inquisitive 12-17 year old students. For more information, please visit: http://gedankeninstitute.com/Abouttheinstitute.html. Register today!

SAVE THE DATE! RELAY FOR LIFE 2012 – June 9TH – 10TH AT OLMSTED FALLS HIGH SCHOOL – Welcome back to another great season of Relay For Life! This year promises to be bigger than ever! We have had such a great turn out in the past, that we have been honored to host a huge research study (CPS3) on site at this year’s event, and again our teams are developing for the big day! Please consider joining us on our 24 hour journey; come for the fun activities, the great entertainment, the moving ceremonies, the fireworks, the mission, and the camaraderie! If you are interested in volunteering or forming a team, visit our website for more information. If you are interested in learning more about the on-site “Cancer Prevention Study (CS3), see the “Cancer Prevention Study 3 in Olmsted Falls” link on our website or e-mail Cps3inolmstedfalls@gmail.com. Be a part of the “Best Birthday Party Ever…Across the Nation” and make a difference in our own community! To read the latest issue of the Olmsted Relay for Life newsletter including a list of local contacts, please click here.

15th Annual Olmsted Falls Baseball Camp for boys entering Grade 3 through entering Grade 9 – June 11th – 15th at Olmsted Falls High School Fields - This year’s camp will have TWO sessions and the camp will consist of fundamentals in hitting, fielding, throwing, and base-running. Come join us for a week of valuable baseball knowledge and fun. Instructors will include the high school coaching staff, current players, and former Bulldog players currently playing in college. Click HERE for more information.

39th Annual Phil Bova Baseball Camp for ages 7-14 years old – June 18th – 22nd at Westlake Recreation Center - Experience your own Spring training! The camp features an outstanding staff with over 200 years experience providing individual instruction for all age levels. Our planned daily schedule will have a morning session and then two sessions in the afternoon. You will then be able to apply what you learned at camp to your games afterwards. For more information, please click HERE for the website or HERE for the flyer.

Kent State Travel-Elite Soccer Camp – June 25th – 29th at Schady Road Fields, Olmsted Township – Designed for current travel and premiere soccer players, the camp emphasizes tactical development, skill building, and having fun! Click HERE for the flyer or click HERE to download the registration form.

Categories: Uncategorized

Parent Update – April 4, 2012

April 4, 2012 Todd F. Hoadley Comments off

NO SCHOOL THIS FRIDAY AND MONDAY

REMINDER: Olmsted Falls School District will be CLOSED this Friday, April 6th and Monday, April 9th for the Easter holiday weekend. School will resume on Tuesday, April 10th.

OFMS DESIGN SQUAD TEAM DOES IT AGAIN!

Congratulations to the Olmsted Falls Middle School Design Squad Team!

The team of Morgan Ashton, Maggie Backus, Stephen Miller, and Alex Kho spent the first Saturday of spring break competing in creative problem solving and engineering challenges in WVIZ’s Design Squad challenge. Their excellent teamwork and problem solving skills once again led the team to beat out schools from all over the Cleveland area.

The team took first place in this tough engineering competition for the second consecutive year! OFMS gifted teacher Mrs. Anne Miskimins serves as advisor for the OFMS Design Squad Team.

P.I. FUNDS AT WORK OVER SPRING BREAK: LOCAL VENDOR COMPLETES CONCRETE WORK AT FALLS-LENOX, MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL

Students at Falls-Lenox were greeted by a safer, wider walkway Monday thanks to funding from the recently passed P.I. Levy.

Students at Falls-Lenox Primary School returned to wider, safer sidewalks this week following the completion of the first project made possible by funds generated from the recently passed Permanent Improvement Levy. Martin Concrete Construction Company, located here in Olmsted Falls, was hired to complete much-needed concrete work at Falls-Lenox Primary School as well as at Olmsted Falls Middle and High Schools.

The team from Martin Concrete Construction Company worked on the Falls-Lenox sidewalk expansion project over spring break.

At Falls-Lenox, Martin Concrete Construction Company worked over the spring break recess to widen the main sidewalk that runs along the front of the school. This wider walkway will help ease congestion on this critical stretch sidewalk, which serves as the primary hub for loading and unloading of buses each school day. Martin Concrete also completed work along the sidewalk in front of Olmsted Falls Middle School, and between the baseball diamonds located at the east end of Olmsted Falls High School.

Martin Concrete Construction owner Al Martin overseeing the concrete pour in front of OFMS - another P.I. project completed over spring break.

The 2.8 Mill P.I. Levy was passed in November 2011, and began generating revenue for the District in January of 2012. Because the passage of this levy was timed to correspond with a scheduled drop off in millage of the same amount, residents in the Olmsted Falls School District will not see any increase in their property taxes.

The benefits of passing this critical P.I. levy will be evident in the months and years to come as the District will now have the funds available to address a number of pressing building and facility needs. By law, P.I. funds can ONLY be used for capital improvement projects with a shelf life of five years or more. While a significant portion of these new P.I. funds will be dedicated to building renovations and facility system upgrades at the aging Olmsted Falls High School, there will also be funds available for other needed projects throughout the District – such as the sidewalk expansion at Falls-Lenox.

Olmsted Falls School District wishes to again extend our sincerest thanks to the Olmsted community for providing us with these critical funds to help maintain and protect one of its biggest investments – our school facilities.

Please watch for regular P.I. project updates here on the District’s weekly blog as well as in the School Report, which is mailed to all District residents. Anyone with questions about any of the upcoming P.I. projects is encouraged to contact the Board of Education Office at 427-6000.

NO-COST UPGRADE BRINGS FRESH LOOK AND NEW FEATURES TO DISTRICT WEBSITE

Be sure to check out the newly updated Olmsted Falls School District website (www.ofcs.net), which was upgraded and re-launched during last week’s spring break recess. The website renovation was provided at NO COST TO THE DISTRICT in conjunction with an overall software upgrade being made to the website’s content management system. All existing content from the previous website was transferred over and updates were made to help improve the ease of navigation for all users. Visitors will find new pull-down menus across the top and a collection of new “Quick Links” for each building page. We invite you to CLICK HERE to begin exploring the new District website now!

iPHONE APP NOW AVAILABLE FOR OFHS!

OFHS has an iPhone app! This new application serves as a one-stop tool for everything related to Olmsted Falls High School.

The app includes communication links, links to all high school related web pages, an interactive quiz about OF history, and push notifications for the release of important information.

Please click HERE to download the new OFHS App and enjoy!

HELPING HANDS MEETING NEXT TUESDAY, APRIL 10TH

SAVE THE DATE! Students and parents are invited to attend the Helping Hands meeting next Tuesday, April 10th at 6:00 p.m. in the High School, Room W5 (art room, use west side gym entrance). Student group for grades 6-12 & Parent group for parent(s) of OFCS student(s) in any grade will meet. Helping Hands is a disability awareness program that helps people of all ages learn attitudes of acceptance, dignity, and respect towards all people, especially those with disabilities. Please contact Mariel Krakowiak for additional information or questions: 440-427-6086, mkrakowiak@ofcs.net.

DON’T MISS OFHS MASQUERS PRODUCTION OF “CINDERELLA” – APRIL 20TH & 21ST!

OFHS Masquers is proud to present Rodger’s and Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA.

Shows are scheduled for April 20th and 21st at 7:30p.m. in the high school auditorium.

Come out and enjoy our talented drama students for a performance of this family-friendly classic!

The cast of CINDERELLA includes:

OFHS BOYS SOCCER TEAM MEETING AND PROGRAM INFORMATION AVAILABLE ON-LINE

The Boys Soccer Team will be having its Player and Parent Meeting on Tuesday, April 10, 2012 from 7:30 – 9:00 in the Olmsted Falls High School Cafeteria.

All players who are planning on playing soccer for Olmsted Falls High School need to attend with a parent.

Information on the program is available on-line, along with other important High School Soccer dates for the 2012-2013 school year. To review this information, please visit the website http://ofhssoccer.wordpress.com

ECC CELEBRATES RIGHT TO READ WEEK

Falls-Lenox Assistant Principal Ms. Lisa Williams visited ECC as a guest reader during Right To Read Week

Preschool and Kindergarten students at the Early Childhood Center celebrated Right To Read Week with a variety of special activities and events during the week leading up to spring break.

Fun activities included:

“Read A Shirt Day” when students were inspired to wear shirts with words on them.

“Guest Reader Day” when special visitors from throughout the District and the community volunteered to read in the classrooms.

City of Olmsted Falls Economic Development Director Rosann Jones was another special guest reader at the ECC

Students were also treated to a special story-telling assembly thanks to the support of the Falls-Lenox/ECC PTA who paid to bring an exciting program from Playhouse Square right into the gymnasium at the ECC!

Performers from Playhouse Square put on an interactive play that included student participation. Fun was had by all! THANK YOU PTA!

And THANK YOU TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS AND STAFF who made this year’s Right To Read Week a success! Please click here to view more photos from ECC Right To Read Week.

DON’T MISS OUT ON FREE COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP / FINANCIAL AID ADVICE AVAILABLE FOR OFHS PARENTS & STUDENTS – ONLY ONE OPPORTUNITY LEFT!

Is college just around the corner for your student? If so, OFHS is providing the opportunity for parents to meet individually with financial advisor Mr. Dave Minich from College Now of Greater Cleveland. Mr. Minich has been scheduling appointments to personally meet with parents/students to help connect them with different college scholarship and funding opportunities. Mr. Minich can also help with filing for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Parents are highly encouraged to take advantage of this great opportunity!

ONLY ONE DATE REMAINS! Mr. Minich will be scheduling appointments in the OFHS Guidance Office for NEXT TUESDAY, APRIL 10th between the hours of 1:00 – 8:00 p.m. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity!

Please call Ms. Tommye Laut in the HS Counseling Department at 427-6116 to schedule your appointment today.

Parents are also encouraged to visit the Counselor’s Corner of the OFHS website for additional scholarship resources. Visit the OFHS Counselor’s Corner by clicking here, and look for “Scholarship Information” under the Forms section about half way down the page on the right-hand side.

ALL-U-CAN EAT WINGS, PIZZA & DRINKS TO SUPPORT THE 2011 STATE CHAMPIONS – FRIDAY, APRIL 13TH

A fundraiser to support travel for the Olmsted Falls Academic Team (OFAT) will be held at Razzles on Friday, April 13, 8-10 p.m. We’ll also have an auction with great items from OF companies, sideboards, and more! Families welcome! Kids under 6 FREE. $20 tickets available from OFAT members, coaches, or at door. Or contact mendykin@aol.com; 440-234-7964.

Check out the new Olmsted Falls Academic Boosters Club Facebook page! Post congrats to your student for his/her academic accomplishments. Like us!

SAVE THE DATE! 3rd ANNUAL BALLROOM BLITZ – SATURDAY, APRIL 14TH

The event includes desserts , dancing, soft drinks, door prizes, basket raffles, and a Grand Raffle for a new IPAD!

All proceeds go to the promotion and enhancement of the music experience for Olmsted Falls music students district-wide.

OLMSTED FALLS POST PROM COMMITTEE FUNDRAISERS

ATHLETIC BOOSTERS’ NIGHT AT THE RACES – APRIL 21st!

1. Purchase tickets to attend. Table of 8 is $240 ($30/person) and includes buffet dinner, pop, draft. Contact Dave Kurz (440-263-0051). Call soon as tables sell out!

3. Purchase an ad for the program. Contact Ken Fox (440-391-0624) for details. Ad deadline date is April 6. Ad costs: Full page ad- $100; 1/2-page ad – $50; and business card sized ad – $25.

Visit our website for the official Night at the Races flyer and our horse form!

MIDDLE SCHOOL BULLDOG STARS OF THE WEEK

A bulldog star has shown exemplary Bulldog Spirit either academically or socially within our school community.

Please click here for this week’s Stars of the Week.

5TH ANNUAL MIDDLE SCHOOL PTA CALENDAR RAFFLE – GET YOURS TODAY!

OFHS ART DEPARTMENT SEEKING ENTRIES FOR ANNUAL MAY ART SHOW

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 2012 CLEVELAND NATIONAL COLLEGE FAIR

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES, EVENTS & FUNDRAISERS:

Olmsted Community Summer League Umpires (OCSL) Summer Umpire training for ages 12 and up - April 10th, at 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. - OCSL will have sign up for Summer Umpires at the Olmsted Community Church 2nd floor community room to fill out your forms and meet with your instructors. Classes will be held every Tuesday and Thursday from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. April 10th, 12th, 17th, 19th, 24th, 26th and May 1st. Contact: Sharon Potter 440-427-1171 or email Shapotter1020@yahoo.com

Categories: Uncategorized

Parent Update – March 21, 2012

March 21, 2012 Todd F. Hoadley 4 comments

SPRING BREAK SCHEDULE

Spring break is next week. Spring break week begins on Monday, March 26th and ends on Friday, March 30th. School will resume on Monday, April 2^nd.

Please note that there will not be a District blog post next week. Regular weekly blog posts will resume on Wednesday, April 4^th.

Have a safe and enjoyable break!

MCGRAIN STEPS DOWN AS BULLDOG WRESTLING COACH; VETERAN COACH RESIGNS AFTER 27 YEARS AS HEAD COACH

High School Head Coach Bill McGrain has resigned from his head wrestling coaching position after twenty-seven years. Wanting to spend more time with family and take a step back from the program as head coach, McGrain stated it is time for another person to begin a new era in Bulldog wrestling.

“I feel very blessed, fortunate, and proud to have served as the Head Wrestling Coach at Olmsted Falls High School for 27 years,” said Coach McGrain. “I am in good health and I still love the sport, but felt for many reasons it was time to step aside.”

“The support I have had from my wife Tracey has enabled me to be a head coach for 30 years,” McGrain added. Mrs. Tracey McGrain was selected as National Head Coaches Wife of the Year in 1996. “This position also allowed me to coach my two sons here at Olmsted Falls, Zach and Chaz.”

In reflecting on his tenure at Olmsted Falls, McGrain said, “I have enjoyed the challenge of trying to make Olmsted Falls wrestling one of the top programs in the State.”

“I have had many great assistant coaches, families, and administrators to work with throughout the years,” he added. “I have also had many hard-working athletes here, many who have gone on to become very productive adults, which of course makes me extremely proud.”

Bill McGrain Career Notables:

Head Wrestling Coach at Olmsted Falls High School from 1986-2012
Inducted into the Ohio Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2006
Selected as Ohio Wrestling Division II Coach of the Year in 1997
Career Dual Meet Record 335-58-3
Coached 7 Individual State Champions
1 of only 3 Coaches in Ohio History to Coach a State Champion in all 3 Divisions.
12 Top 10 State Finishes
45 State Place Winners
76 Individual State Qualifiers
13 SWC Championship Teams, Voted SWC Coach of the Year 14 Times
Three time Greater Cleveland Coach of the Year
Plain Dealer Coach of the Year

Another notable accomplishment during Coach McGrain’s tenure was having the pleasure of coaching the only two-time state champion in school history, Ryan Smith.

McGrain hopes to remain involved in the program in some capacity. “The future is bright for the Olmsted Falls wrestling program,” he said. “There are many accomplished athletes returning next year and I hope to find a way to be a continuing part of their success.”

McGrain added, “Thanks to the many of you who have supported me and Olmsted Falls wrestling throughout the years. Olmsted Falls is a special place and it will always be a big part of me.”

“Coach McGrain has truly personified the Bulldog tradition of excellence during his exceptional career here in Olmsted Falls,” said Superintendent Dr. Todd Hoadley. “He has long been held in high regard by players, parents, colleagues, and members of the greater Olmsted community.”

“I want to personally thank Bill for all that he has done for our student athletes and the wrestling program,” added Dr. Hoadley. “Throughout his coaching career Bill has impacted hundreds of young men in such a positive way and his influence will be felt long into the future.”

Olmsted Falls High School Principal Dr. Bob Hill stated, “Bill had a tremendously successful coaching career at Olmsted Falls High School. For the past 27 years, his knowledge and passion for wrestling have contributed to his many successes and the successes of his athletes. Bill helped mold successful athletes through an unwavering work ethic and by surrounding himself with quality coaches, many of whom wrestled for him at OFHS. Sending athletes to the state competition 24 of his 27 years as head coach defines the success he infused into our wrestling program. We will miss Bill and we certainly wish him well.”

Bill McGrain currently teaches Occupational Work Adjustment at Olmsted Falls High School, and will continue to teach at OFHS in that capacity moving forward.

FALLS-LENOX 1ST GRADE CONCERTS TOMORROW NIGHT!

First Grade Concerts – TOMORROW, March 22^ndat OFHS Auditorium.

Performances at 6:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

6:15 p.m. Concert: Mrs. Schiely, Mrs. Kostraba, Mrs. Burk, Mrs. Deluca, Mrs. Mariotti and Mrs. Patay.

7:15 p.m. Concert: Mrs. Vasco, Miss Sanfilippo, Mrs. Rivera, Dr. Kolozvary and Mr. Simon.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE” TALENT SHOW THIS FRIDAY!

THIS FRIDAY, March 23rd, 7 p.m.
Held at the Olmsted Falls High School Auditorium.
Tickets are $6 and available at the door.

Bring the whole family and enjoy music, songs, dance and fun for everyone! Come cheer on your favorite talent and performance groups.

All proceeds benefit OFHS PTA Scholarships!

OFHS BASKETBALL PLAYERS ACKNOWLEDGED FOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS

Fourteen juniors and seniors from the OFHS Varsity Basketball Boys & Girls Teams have been awarded special recognition for their academic success off the court by the Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Association (OHSBCA).

(L to R) Varsity Boys Basketball Coach Chris DeLisio with OHSBCA Award winning athletes Brandon Friedrich, Jared Kurz, Billy Calabrase, Kenny Hanna and Eric Meehan. Not Pictured: Steve Johnson.

(L to R) Varsity Girls Basketball Coach Matt Fulton with OHSBCA Award winning athletes Jaime Fossen, Abby Nichols, Jessica Koch, Katie Parfejewiec, Allison Gerycz, Amber Black, Allison Duber and Erin Hoadley

OHSBCA acknowledges juniors and seniors within its basketball programs who do well academically. They award seniors with Gold Certificates for keeping a 3.2 GPA over 7 semesters; and they award juniors with Silver Certificates for keeping a 3.2 for 5 Semesters.

The following OFHS seniors have been awarded Gold Certificates:

Varsity Boys – Jared Kurz and Eric Meehan

Varsity Girls – Amber Black and Katie Parfejewiec

The following OFHS juniors have been awarded Silver Certificates:

Varsity Boys - Billy Calabrase, Brandon Friedrich, Kenny Hanna and Steve Johnson

Varsity Girls - Allison Duber, Jaime Fossen, Allison Gerycz, Erin Hoadley, Jessica Koch and Abby Nichols

Congratulations again to these outstanding student athletes! Kudos also to our coaches for consistently stressing the importance of doing well in the classroom and making sure students place a priority on keeping their grades up. Go Bulldogs!

3rd GRADE LITERACY NIGHT WELL ATTENDED!

Falls-Lenox third graders and their families enjoyed last week’s Literacy Night, which was filled with fun and engaging activities for all. Thank you to all who attended and helped with the event.

Sam, Tyler, and Vickie Lofton

To view the entire gallery of photos from this special Bulldog family event, please click HERE.

KIWANIS CLUB DONATES BOOKS AND BALLS TO FALLS-LENOX

Thank you to the Kiwanis who made a donation of books and balls to Falls-Lenox Primary School last week! The continuous thoughtfulness and generosity of our local Kiwanis Club is most sincerely appreciated by students and staff!

HELPING HANDS MEETING

SAVE THE DATE! Tuesday, April 10th at 6:00 p.m. in the High School, Room W5 (art room, use west side gym entrance). Student group (grades 6-12) & Parent group (parent(s) of OFCS student(s) in any grade).

Contact Mariel Krakowiak for additional information or questions: 440-427-6086, mkrakowiak@ofcs.net.

ALL-U-CAN EAT WINGS, PIZZA & DRINKS TO SUPPORT THE 2011 STATE CHAMPIONS – FRIDAY, APRIL 13TH

A fundraiser to support travel for the Olmsted Falls Academic Team (OFAT) will be held at Razzles on Friday, April 13, 8-10 p.m. We’ll also have an auction with great items from OF companies, sideboards, and more! Families welcome! Kids under 6 FREE. $20 tickets available from OFAT members, coaches, or at door. Or contact mendykin@aol.com; 440-234-7964.

Check out the new Olmsted Falls Academic Boosters Club Facebook page! Post congrats to your student for his/her academic accomplishments. Like us!

SAVE THE DATE! 3rd ANNUAL BALLROOM BLITZ – SATURDAY, APRIL 14TH

Join us on Saturday, April 14th at 6:30 p.m. for an evening of music and dancing as the Olmsted Falls High School BlueDog Jazz Band and Golden Expressions Vocal Jazz Ensemble present their third annual compilation of classic and contemporary hits. The event includes desserts , dancing, soft drinks, door prizes, basket raffles, and a Grand Raffle for a new IPAD! All proceeds go to the promotion and enhancement of the music experience for Olmsted Falls music students district-wide.

MIDDLE SCHOOL BULLDOG STARS OF THE WEEK

A bulldog star has shown exemplary Bulldog Spirit either academically or socially within our school community.

Please click here for this week’s Stars of the Week.

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 2012 CLEVELAND NATIONAL COLLEGE FAIR

OFHS SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION CONTINUES

Summer School registration for health and physical education classes for current 8th and 9th graders is already underway.

Classes fill up fast!

For additional information and to download enrollment forms, please click here.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES, EVENTS & FUNDRAISERS:

Olmsted Community Preschool hosts the Easter Bunny at Kiddie Kargo: This Saturday, March 24th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., come to the Kiddie Kargo at 8068 Columbia Road for an afternoon of snacks, crafts, an Easter egg hunt, and a visit by the Easter Bunny! Reservations were requested to have been made by March 15th; please call 440-235-2700 for additional information. All proceeds go to the Olmsted Community Preschool. For more information, click HERE.

Boy Scout Troop 201 Fundraiser: Moosehead Hoof & Ladder will donate 10% of your check to Troop 201 when you dine every Sunday in the month of March between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. This COUPON must be presented to your server for Troop 201 to receive the donation. Brunch is available on Sundays from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Troop 201 thanks you for your support!

Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast – Sunday, April 1st, 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Olmsted Falls High School Cafeteria. All you can eat!

Please click HERE to download flyer with additional details.

Annual Career Fair Sponsored by Polaris Career Center in collaboration with Cuyahoga County – Wednesday, March 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This annual event typically attracts 100 employers and more than 1,200 job seekers. Polaris is currently seeking participation from both employers and job seekers. For additional information, please click here. For job seeker registration, please click here. For employer registration, please click here.

TICKETS ON SALE….Olmsted Performing Arts Youth Stage: There will be a performance of Disney’s The Jungle Book Kids on Friday, April 20^th at 7 pm and on Saturday, April 21^st at 2 pm and at 7 pm. The jungle is jumpin’ with jazz in this exciting Disney classic! Specially adapted from the beloved film, this musical includes favorite Disney tunes, like “The Bare Necessities,” and “I Wanna Be Like You.” Performances will be in the 1,200 seat auditorium at Journey Church, 6941 Columbia Road, Olmsted Falls. Advance tickets are available through noon on April 19^th at www.olmstedperformingarts.com and are $13 for Orchestra A, $11 for Orchesta B, and $9 for Reserved Seating. Add $2/ticket at the door. Lap sitting children ages 3 and under are free. Plus, join us for a fun-filled, live animal show with renowned animal entertainer Jungle Terry, plus craft and a snack, at our special preshow event 90 minutes before each performance. Preshow tickets are $15 each.

TICKETS ON SALE….Olmsted Performing Arts Dine with Royalty: Join Olmsted Performing Arts at our royal paradise at Journey Church, 6941 Columbia Road, Olmsted Falls for dinner (6:00 pm on May 11^th, 18^th, & 19^th – $25/person) or breakfast (10:30 am on May 12^th& 19^th – $20/person). Your experience includes breakfast (French toast, scrambled eggs, and sausage) or dinner (chicken parmigiana, pasta, salad, and dinner rolls), a 30-45 minute floor show, photo opportunities, and a chance to meet Ariel, Snow White, Belle, Sleeping Beauty, Rapunzel, Cinderella, Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, Pochahontas, and the OPA Disney Dancers. Enjoy Premium VIP seating and a private dining area for an additional $5 per ticket. Advance tickets only. Children under age 2 are free if they share a plate with an adult. Purchase tickets at www.olmstedperformingarts.com or in person at our box office at the Olmsted Community Center, 8170 Mapleway Drive, Olmsted Falls. This event will sell out. Details are available at http://www.olmstedperformingarts.com/youthTheater.php.

Categories: Uncategorized

Parent Update – March 14, 2012

March 14, 2012 Todd F. Hoadley Comments off

OUTSTANDING BULLDOG PERFORMANCE IN SCIENCE OLYMPIAD COMPETITION

After four months of preparation, twenty-five 4^th-6^th graders participated in the Science Olympiad competition held last Saturday at Cleveland State University. This was a rare cross-grade-level academic opportunity for students in our District. The students competed in twenty-four different events involving on-the-spot problem solving, construction, and in-depth knowledge on a wide variety of science topics. These outstanding students achieved the following honors:

First place in Bridges, Circuits, Catapult, Legos and Experimental Design

Second place in Aerodynamics, Amphibians & Reptiles, Leaf & Tree, Lasers, and Weather

Third place in Anatomy, Egg Drop, Pentathlon, and Starry Starry Night

Fourth place in Mystery Powders and Rocks

Second place overall and medals in 16 events

Science Olympiad Team Members:

6th grade: Joey d’Aliberti, Jacob Dahlinger, Shalin Desai, Danny Doherty, Natalie Partin, Madison Plumlee, Trevor Rodgers, Esha Vartak, Bill Wendling, Jack Wu

5th grade: Jamie Bridle, Emily Broski, Mia Colozza, Annelise Gomez, Noah Le, Disha Rathod, Claudia Schuh, Eric Sobera, Anthony Thompson, Mallory Witt

4th grade: Justin Andrews, Nick Gaba, Marissa Gazer, Edmund Leung, Andrew Vichill

Coaches: Peggy Morris, Cindy Rodgers, Anne Miskimins, and parent Anthony Colozza volunteered his time on Saturday to judge an event

Congratulations to all these hardworking students and thanks to all the coaches and parents for your dedication, help and support!

OFHS MATH DEPARTMENT CELEBRATES PI () DAY!

Teachers and students at Olmsted Falls High School celebrated Pi Day today! Pi, a Greek letter (), is the symbol for the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter. Pi Day is celebrated by math enthusiasts around the world on March 14th. Pi = 3.1415926535…

OFHS math teachers wore matching “Pi Day” t-shirts today, and planned a variety of activities to commemorate the special day.

DID YOU KNOW? Albert Einstein’s birthday is also today, March 14th!

MORE THAN 160 OFHS STUDENTS RECOGNIZED AT 32^ND ANNUAL ACADEMIC HONORS BANQUET

More than 300 people were in attendance to recognize OFHS students for their academic achievements last Thursday evening at the 32^nd Annual Academic Honors Banquet. A record number of students were honored at this year’s event! Students were joined by their families and other special guests for a dinner and awards ceremony held at Baldwin Wallace College. To be recognized at this special event, students must earn a cumulative GPA of 4.0 for freshmen, 3.9 for sophomores, 3.8 for juniors, and 3.7 for seniors.

To view the event program, including the list of students honored, please click HERE. (Note: the number of astericks (*) following a student’s name indicated how many years they’ve been invited to attend the event.)

Congratulations to all of these outstanding students and their families!

SPECIAL GUESTS HELP ECC STUDENTS CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Students at the Early Childhood Center (ECC) began celebrating St. Patrick’s Day early this week thanks to some very special visitors. Mr. Robert Stack (far left) and Mr. Patrick Logan, both members of the Cleveland Firefighters Memorial Pipes and Drums, entertained students with a special performance. Mr. Stack is the father of preschool teacher Ms. Megan Stack. Thank you to Mr. Stack and Mr. Logan for this very special visit!

ECC students were also treated to an Irish Jig dance performance by fellow ECC student Caroline Terrell, a kindergartner in Mrs. Doyle’s class (pictured on stage).

Thank you to Caroline for sharing your dance talent with us!

MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS SELECTED TO PERFORM IN LOCAL HONOR CHOIRS

Congratulations to the following Olmsted Falls Middle School students who were selected to perform with the District 4 Honor Choir on February 25^th: Josh Aubel, Kristin Kawecki, Chris Kollm, Nick Kroo, Marisol Lambermont, Sydney Martin, Courtney Nelson and Justin Peck.

These students were selected among 85 other middle school students in the NE Ohio area. The performance took place at Lakewood Civic Auditorium and was directed by former OFMS choral director, Eric Richardson.

Congratulations also to the following Olmsted Falls Middle School students who have been selected to perform with the Oberlin Choristers Honor Choir this Saturday, March 17^th: Joey d’Aliberti, Luke Andrus, Aleigha Angus, Olivia Begeman, Audra Bowers, Mary Candow, Kayla Falcone, Trisha Feighan, Dominic Gentile, Dana Rapchak, Lizzie Vukovic, Dylan Wellington and Bill Wendling.

These students will also be joining students from area Cuyahoga and Lorain County schools. The performance will be at Lorain County Community College Stocker Center and the performance time will begin at 3 pm.

OFHS CLASS OF 2011 ALUMNUS SELECTED AS FIRST RECIPIENT OF A NEW SCHOLARSHIP AWARD FROM JO-ANN FABRICS, INC.

OFHS Alumnus Natalie Sullinger (Class of 2011)

Congratulations to Bulldog alumnus Natalie Sullinger (Class of 2011) on being chosen as the first recipient of the Jo-Ann Fabrics “First Generation Scholarship” award, designed for students who are the first in their family to work toward a 4-year degree and who have experience/leadership in sewing, fabrics and/or crafts.

Natalie is currently studying at Kent State University. During her time at OFHS, Natalie was instrumental in organizing quilt making efforts for donation to local cancer patients. She credits OFHS Counsleor Ms. Sherry Davis (who was her teacher at the time) for teaching her how to make her first cancer quilt. To read more about this outstanding OFHS alumnus, please click here.

Congratulations again to Natalie!

LET IT GO DAY RAISES AWARENESS

Mrs. Ambrosia's 4th grade class at OFIS "Lets It Go!"

Students in Mrs. Ambrosia’s class joined students across the District last Friday as Olmsted Falls Schools celebrated “Let It Go Day” – a day that encourages letting go of past grievences and promoted kindness and forgiveness among all. On Let it Go Day, all students and staff of Olmsted Falls Schools were encouraged to wear something GREEN to represent growth and new beginnings. Mrs. Ambrosia’s class certainly went all out for the occasion! Kudos to these 4th grade students, and to all of the students and staff across the District that participated in the 2nd Annual Let It Go Day!

OLMSTED FALLS INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL PTA AND FALLS-LENOX/ECC PTA INVITE PARENTS AND STUDENTS TO ATTEND COMBINED SPRING DINNER MEETING NEXT TUESDAY, MARCH 20TH

Third grade parents (as well as anyone else interested) are invited and encouraged to attend this special joint meeting. Please plan to arrive at 6:00 PM for a guided tour of the Intermediate School and then enjoy dinner, drinks and dessert.

We encourage you to stay for our PTA meeting to hear about the many student activities available at the Intermediate School and learn how you can be involved in PTA.

Tuesday, March 20th

Olmsted Falls Intermediate School Cafeteria

6:00 PM Guided Tours

6:30 PM Dinner

7:00 PM PTA Meeting

Please note this combined PTA meeting will take the place of the F/L-ECC March meeting. There will be no F/L-ECC PTA meeting on March 27th.

ANNOUNCING…”FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE” TALENT SHOW NEXT FRIDAY!

Friday, March 23rd, 7 p.m.
Held at the Olmsted Falls High School Auditorium.
Tickets are $6 and available at the door.

Bring the whole family and enjoy music, songs, dance and fun for everyone! Come cheer on your favorite talent and performance groups.

All proceeds benefit OFHS PTA Scholarships!

POST PROM THANKS SUPPORTERS!

The OFHS Post Prom committee extends sincere thanks to all those who dined at Chic-Fil-A last Wednesday evening to help raise funds for Post Prom with this special Spirit Night Fundraiser. A fun night was had by all who attended. Special thanks to Teri Petro who ran the raffle wheel, and to Jackie Keuhn and Barb Hurrell who helped refresh drinks for all customers! Thanks also to Kayla, Tommy, Joanie and Cody for being on ”Cow Patrol” for the night.

Please mark your calendars for these other upcoming fundraising events for Post Prom:

Thursday, April 19th – Dodgeball tournament at the OFHS, more details to come.
Saturday, April 28th - Wing Night/Chinese Raffle, more details to come.

MIDDLE SCHOOL BULLDOG STARS OF THE WEEK

A bulldog star has shown exemplary Bulldog Spirit either academically or socially within our school community.

Please click here for this week’s Stars of the Week.

FALLS-LENOX EVENTS

Third Grade Literacy Night – TOMORROW, Thursday, March 15th! The final literacy night this year will take place from 6:00-7:45 p.m. and promises to be fun and engaging evenings for the children and their families. We hope to see you there!

First Grade Concerts – NEXT Thursday, March 22^ndat OFHS Auditorium. Performances at 6:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

6:15 p.m. Concert: Mrs. Schiely, Mrs. Kostraba, Mrs. Burk, Mrs. Deluca, Mrs. Mariotti and Mrs. Patay.

7:15 p.m. Concert: Mrs. Vasco, Miss Sanfilippo, Mrs. Rivera, Dr. Kolozvary and Mr. Simon.

ARMED SERVICES VOCATIONAL APTITUDE BATTERY (ASVAB) TEST FOR JUNIORS AND SENIORS THIS FRIDAY, MARCH 16TH

Olmsted Falls High School will offer the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test for any junior or senior interested in learning more about military careers. The test is scheduled for THIS FRIDAY, March 16, 2012 at 7:00 a.m. in the high school guidance office. Students can register for the test with their school counselor. Read more about the ASVAB by clicking HERE.

OFHS SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION CONTINUES

Summer School registration for health and physical education classes for current 8th and 9th graders is already underway.

Classes fill up fast!

For additional information and to download enrollment forms, please click here.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES, EVENTS & FUNDRAISERS:

The Easter Bunny is coming to Kiddie Kargo: On Saturday, March 24th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., come to the Kiddie Kargo at 8068 Columbia Road for an afternoon of snacks, crafts, an Easter egg hunt, and a visit by the Easter Bunny! Make your reservations by March 15th at 440-235-2700. All proceeds go to the Olmsted Community Preschool. For more information, click HERE.

Categories: Uncategorized

Parent Update – March 7, 2012

March 7, 2012 Todd F. Hoadley Comments off

OFHS STUDENTS SEND THOUGHTS TO CHARDON

The students at OFHS gathered last Friday to capture this image to express their heartfelt support to Chardon High School. Students and staff wore black and red on Friday in honor of Chardon, and gathered in the gymnasium as a school community to capture this memorable photo. The photo has been sent to the Chardon High School principal along with the banner, which was also signed with personal messages from our students and staff to the students and staff at Chardon.

Olmsted Falls High School is proud of the students for coming up with this idea to lend support to the Chardon community during this difficult time. This banner from OFHS is now on display in the gymnasium at Chardon High School. The Olmsted Falls School District continues to keep all those impacted by the tragic shootings at Chardon High School in our thoughts and prayers.

DISTRICT CELERATES “LET IT GO” DAY THIS FRIDAY, MARCH 9TH

"Let It Go" Poster by Jackie Swinerton

The Let It Go campaign began with a student’s vision presented to the OFHS Guidance Department in the Fall of 2010. The student’s vision was for one day, we might let go of past grievances and promote a feeling of kindness and forgiveness among all people.

With the support of the district guidance team, district administration and teaching staff, the second annual Let It Go Day will take place this Friday, March 9^th.

On Let it Go Day, all students and staff of Olmsted Falls Schools are encouraged to WEAR SOMETHING GREEN. Green represents growth and new beginnings.

In addition to wearing green, the following activities are planned at each school:

Falls-Lenox – Morning show announcements and students will be writing something down they want to let go of and tearing it up.

Intermediate – Ambassador presentations and morning show announcements

Middle School – Classroom presentations

High School – Classroom presentations throughout several curriculum areas: Health, Art, Social Studies and Language Arts departments.

Also at OFHS, art students participated in a special project to create promotional posters to help spread awareness about Let It Go Day. One of these outstanding poster creations is featured above. To view a gallery of additional Let It Go posters, please click here.

OLMSTED FALLS SCHOOL DISTRICT CONSIDERED A LEADER IN COLLABORATION AND SHARED SERVICES

DID YOU KNOW? The Olmsted Falls School District has a revenue-generating contract to provide bus maintenance services to Fairview Park City Schools. This partnership began in 2010 and provides a win-win situation for both districts. This latest example of shared services involving Olmsted Falls Schools generates a new revenue stream for our District, while providing a much-needed service and increased efficiencies for nearby Fairview Park.

This is not the first time Olmsted Falls School District’s Transportation Department has entered into a regional agreement of this type. The District also provides maintenance and fuel services for Lakewood City Schools and the City of Olmsted Falls; and fuel services for Olmsted Township.

Click here to read an article from this week’s Westlife newspaper about Olmsted Falls School District’s partnership with Fairview Park City Schools.

PRESCHOOL STUDENTS SEE DEMOCRACY IN ACTION

Preschool students in Mrs. Atkinson’s a.m. and p.m. classes took a special tour of the Polling Location located in the Early Childhood Center gymnasium on Tuesday to learn about the election process. Students learned how people sign in to receive their ballots, saw the voting booths and “special pens” up close, and received American flags and special voting stickers to commemorate their mini field trip!

Mrs. Atkinson's A.M. Preschool Class

Mrs. Atkinson's P.M. Preschool Class

DEFENDING CHAMPION OLMSTED FALLS HIGH SCHOOL SETS RECORD ON LAST WEEK’S SCHOLASTIC GAMES RADIO QUIZ PROGRAM

Congratulations to the OFHS Academic Team for their record setting performance on “The Scholastic Games of Lorain County” radio quiz program, which aired on WEOL (AM 930) on March 1^st. This highly anticipated competition pitted the program’s defending champion (our OFHS bulldogs) against Grafton’s large, former championship winning Midview High School. The final score was 770 to 90, the highest winning score in the broadcast’s 22-year history. The previous high score of 740 was set by Admiral King High School more than a decade ago.

Olmsted Falls was represented by Brad Sevcik, team captain Sohan Vartak, and Marty Mendenhall, (pictured above) who won the “Standout Scholar” award this time around. It is awarded on each broadcast to the student who contributes the most to his or her team and includes a $50 prize to the student. Both Mendenhall and Vartak were on the championship team last year. The team began the competition by correctly answering all of the questions in the first round, establishing a lead that was sustained throughout the program.

The program features five rounds of competition, focusing on questions of general knowledge, history, science, literature and other academic disciplines. The program’s Historical Round features several items with a series of clues, the most difficult of which yields 50 points for a correct response, and Olmsted Falls managed two such answers in that round. The Olmsted Falls Academic Team advisor is Ms. Rhonna Smith. This was only Olmsted Falls’ second year in the competition.

MS STUDENTS ENJOY ANNUAL WEB LOCK-IN EVENT!

The Middle School is pleased to report that its 6^th Annual Lock-In, hosted by WEB (Where Everyone Belongs) coordinators and leaders on this past Friday and Saturday, March 2^nd & 3^rd, was a spectacular event! Sixth grade students enjoyed two activity sessions which included basketball, volleyball, dodgeball, nail painting, cookie baking, jewelry making and Wii stations. There was also dancing to their favorite songs to get everyone thoroughly exhausted before ending the evening sleeping in the OFMS and OFIS cafeterias. Special thanks to our Middle School staff, teachers, custodians and parents. Your kindness, support and help were greatly appreciated! Thanks to your efforts, this year’s 6^th graders had a great time building friendships and Bulldog spirit at this popular event!

For the complete photo gallery, click HERE

RIGHT-TO-READ WEEK CELEBRATION AT FALLS-LENOX

Many prominent members of our community took part in the recent Right-To-Read Week celebration at Falls-Lenox. Students were treated to a camping themed reading celebration that included visits from guest readers like Dr. Hoadley and our newest School Board Member, Mr. Greg Surtman. Along with District Administrators, the kids enjoyed visits from other supportive members of our community like Mayor Blomquist, Township Trustee Jeanene Kress, Chamber of Commerce Member Marie Grosh, School Resource Officer Bob Swope and many others. It was a great outpouring of support for our students and showed the community’s committment to their education while reinforcing a life-long love of literacy. Thank you to all who particpated in this week-long celebration of reading!

THANK YOU GUEST READERS!

Olmsted Falls Police Officer Bob Swope

Olmsted Township Trustee Mrs. Jeanene Kress

Ms. Donegan reads to Mrs. Gommel's class

Olmsted Falls City Council member Mrs. Ann Marie Donnegan

Board of Education Member Mr. Greg Surtman

Dr. Hoadley reads to Mrs. Marsco's class

Superintendent Dr. Todd Hoadley

To view our entire Guest Reader gallery, please click here.

SPECIAL THANKS to the team of Falls-Lenox Library Media Assistants and other staff members who went above and beyond to make RTRW 2012 an exciting and memorable experience for the students! Pictured below: (L to R) Mrs. Gae Reimer (Library Media Asst.), Mrs. Heather Hamilton (Main Office Secretary), Mrs. Nancy Franklin (Library Media Asst.), Mrs. Mary Kay Turner (Special Ed. Paraprofessional) and Mrs. Alice Miller (Library Media Asst.). (Not pictured: Library Media Assist. Ms. Lisa Bartsche.)

To view more photos from the Right-To-Read Week festivities at Falls-Lenox, please click here.

OFMS PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WINS GRANT

The Physical Education department at Olmsted Falls Middle School recently won a Target Field Trip grant, which helped pay for all 6th grade students to go bowling at Buckeye Lanes in North Olmsted. The Field Trip grant was awarded to help supplement the “Lifetime Activities” curriculum within the school’s PE department.

OLMSTED FALLS POLARIS STUDENT WINS CULINARY ARTS MEDAL

Congratulations to Yesenia Figueroa (pictured in back row), and her Junior team members at Polaris Career Center, for being awarded the Gold Medal at Region 3A Culinary Arts Competion at Cuyahoga Community College. Yesenia Figueroa is a student at the Chef Training Program at Polaris Career Center.

Not only did the team earn the Gold Medal, but her Junior team beat four others school (Beachwood School, Westshore Career Technical, Lakewood, Euclid City School) and their own Polaris Senior team. Yesenia Figueroa and her two Junior team members are Region A-3 Champions and will be competing at the State Culinary Arts Competition on April 2012.

Polaris Culinary Art teams obtained 4 gold medals and 2 silver medals at the Region 3A competition last Satuday at Cuyahoga Community College. Congratulations Yesenia!

POST PROM FUNDRAISER AT CHIC-FIL-A TONIGHT!

TONIGHT, Wednesday, March 7th – North Olmsted Chick-Fil-A – Mention Olmsted Falls Post Prom and we will receive a portion of the sales.

Also, please mark your calendars for these other upcoming fundraising events for Post Prom:

Thursday, April 19th – Dodgeball tournement at the OFHS, more details to come.
Saturday, April 28th - Wing Night/Chinese Raffle, more details to come.

OFHS SCHEDULING FOR NEXT SCHOOL YEAR 2012-2013

Scheduling Current Grades 9-11: OFHS Counselors are scheduling courses for 2012-13 in language arts classes from March 2th -14th. Scheduling recommendation forms will be coming home the week prior to scheduling. A parent signature is required on the scheduling form and students are asked to bring the signed form on their scheduling day. Additionally, the Program of Studies is posted HERE for course descriptions and school policies. All schedules will be finalized by June 15, 2012.

Current 8^th graders: Students will receive scheduling sheets on March 12th and 13th and should bring the documents home to review schedule, select courses, and return sheet with a parent signature prior to scheduling on March 19th and 20th.

MIDDLE SCHOOL BULLDOG STARS OF THE WEEK

A bulldog star has shown exemplary Bulldog Spirit either academically or socially within our school community.

Please click here for this week’s Stars of the Week.

FALLS-LENOX EVENTS

Third Grade Literacy Night – Thursday, March 15th. The final literacy night this year will take place from 6:00-7:45 p.m. and promises to be fun and engaging evenings for the children and their families. We hope to see you there!

First Grade Concerts – Thursday, March 22^ndat OFHS Auditorium. Performances at 6:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

6:15 p.m. Concert: Mrs. Schiely, Mrs. Kostraba, Mrs. Burk, Mrs. Deluca, Mrs. Mariotti and Mrs. Patay.

7:15 p.m. Concert: Mrs. Vasco, Miss Sanfilippo, Mrs. Rivera, Dr. Kolozvary and Mr. Simon.

ARMED SERVICES VOCATIONAL APTITUDE BATTERY (ASVAB) TEST AVAILABLE FOR JUNIORS AND SENIORS

Olmsted Falls High School will offer the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test for any junior or senior interested in learning more about military careers. The test is scheduled on Friday, March 16, 2012 at 7:00 a.m. in the high school guidance office. Students can register for the test with their school counselor. Read more about the ASVAB by clicking HERE.

OFHS SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION CONTINUES

Olmsted Falls High School is once again offering a Summer Enrichment Program for health and physical education classes for current 8^th and 9^th grade students. Classes begin on Thursday, June 7, 2012 and end on Wednesday, June 27, 2012. The final exam date for all classes is Wednesday, June 27, 2012. Both classes fulfill graduation requirements. Since students are required to attend 15 classes, there will be one makeup day taught by the summer school staff on Thursday, June 28, 2012. On the makeup day, health classes will be conducted in the morning and physical education classes will be conducted in the afternoon.

Registration will begin Monday, March 5, 2012. Please be prompt with your reply as classes fill up quickly. Tuition for each class is $150.00. Enrollment forms will be available at both the high school and middle school guidance offices beginning March 5, 2012.

If interested, please click here to read the complete information letter regarding the Summer Enrichment Program. To download an enrollment form from the high school website, please click here. ** Important Note: Registration for the Summer Enrichment programs began on March 5^th.

FREE COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP / FINANCIAL AID ADVICE AVAILABLE FOR OFHS PARENTS & STUDENTS

Is college just around the corner for your student? If so, OFHS is providing the opportunity for parents to meet individually with financial advisor Mr. Dave Minich from College Now of Greater Cleveland. Mr. Minich has more than 40 appointments available to personally meet with parents/students to help connect them with different college scholarship and funding opportunities. Mr. Minich can also help with filing for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Parents are highly encouraged to take advantage of this great opportunity! Below please find the dates and time frames for scheduling appointments with Mr. Minich:

March 13 (OFHS Guidance Office) 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

April 10 (OFHS Guidance Office) 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Please call Ms. Tommye Laut in the HS Counseling Department at 427-6116 to schedule your appointment today.

MIDDLE SCHOOL BULLDOG STARS OF THE WEEK

A bulldog star has shown exemplary Bulldog Spirit either academically or socially within our school community.

Please click here for this week’s Stars of the Week.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES, EVENTS & FUNDRAISERS:

OPA’s Got Talent: Watch talented young people from around Northeast Ohio as they compete in OPA’s Got Talent at the Olmsted Community Center, 8170 Mapleway Drive, Olmsted Falls, THIS FRIDAY, March 9th at 7:00 p.m. Admission is $5. See www.olmstedperformingarts.com for details.

The Easter Bunny is coming to Kiddie Kargo: On Saturday March 24th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., come to the Kiddie Kargo at 8068 Columbia Road for an afternoon of snacks, crafts, an Easter egg hunt, and a visit by the Easter Bunny! Make your reservations by March 15th at 440-235-2700. All proceeds go to the Olmsted Community Preschool. For more information, click HERE

OLMSTED FALLS YOUTH LACROSSE UPDATE – Olmsted Falls Lacrosse started their 3^rd season with indoor practices to develop stick skills, conditioning, and team strategy. A record number of young athletes have registered to participate in the fastest game on two feet! Over 100 games against many local area teams are scheduled for this upcoming season that will culminate with 5th/6th grade and 7th/8th grade state championship tournaments. For more information, game schedules, and photos, check out www.olmstedfallslax.com or friend us on Facebook at ‘Olmsted Falls Lacrosse’.

TICKETS ON SALE….

Olmsted Performing Arts Youth Stage: There will be a performance of Disney’s The Jungle Book Kids on Friday, April 20^th at 7 pm and on Saturday, April 21^st at 2 pm and at 7 pm. The jungle is jumpin’ with jazz in this exciting Disney classic! Specially adapted from the beloved film, this musical includes favorite Disney tunes, like “The Bare Necessities,” and “I Wan’na Be Like You.” Performances will be in the 1,200 seat auditorium at Journey Church, 6941 Columbia Road, Olmsted Falls. Advance tickets are available through noon on April 19^th at www.olmstedperformingarts.com and are $13 for Orchestra A, $11 for Orchesta B, and $9 for Reserved Seating. Add $2/ticket at the door. Lap sitting children ages 3 and under are free. Plus, join us for a fun-filled, live animal show with renowned animal entertainer Jungle Terry, plus craft and a snack, at our special preshow event 90 minutes before each performance. Preshow tickets are $15 each.

Olmsted Performing Arts’ Dine with royalty: Join Olmsted Performing Arts at our royal paradise at Journey Church, 6941 Columbia Road, Olmsted Falls for dinner (6:00 pm on May 11^th, 18^th, & 19^th – $25/person) or breakfast (10:30 am on May 12^th& 19^th – $20/person). Your experience includes breakfast (French toast, scrambled eggs, and sausage) or dinner (chicken parmigiana, pasta, salad, and dinner rolls), a 30-45 minute floor show, photo opportunities, and a chance to meet Ariel, Snow White, Belle, Sleeping Beauty, Rapunzel, Cinderella, Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, Pochahontas, and the OPA Disney Dancers. Enjoy Premium VIP seating and a private dining area for an additional $5 per ticket. Advance tickets only. Children under age 2 are free if they share a plate with an adult. Tickets go on sale at www.olmstedperformingarts.com on March 11^th. Tickets will be on sale in person on Saturday, March 10^th from 1-4 pm at our box office at the Olmsted Community Center, 8170 Mapleway Drive, Olmsted Falls. This event will sell out. Details are available at http://www.olmstedperformingarts.com/youthTheater.php.

Categories: Uncategorized

Parent Update – February 29, 2012

February 29, 2012 Todd F. Hoadley Comments off

IMPORTANT SCHOOL SAFETY INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

The Olmsted Falls School District community extends our sincerest condolences, thoughts and prayers to everyone associated with the terrible shooting incident at Chardon High School this past Monday. First and foremost, as parents and as communities, we want our children to be safe while at school.

Please click here to read the message sent by Dr. Hoadley to Olmsted Falls’ parents following this week’s tragedy.

As an additional resource, we also strongly encourage all parents to review the letter that was sent out last spring regarding social media and what you can do to help ensure your child’s interactions are appropriate and safe. Please click here to read the letter from OFHS Principal Dr. Hill and OFMS Principal Mr. Kurz sent to all parents of Middle and High School parents last May.

KINDERGARTEN INFORMATION NIGHT IS TOMORROW, THURSDAY MARCH 1ST!

If you, or someone you know, will be registering a kindergarten student in Olmsted Falls Schools for the upcoming 2012-2013 school year, you’ll want to be sure to attend Kindergarten Information Night scheduled for TOMORROW NIGHT, Thursday, March 1^st from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at the Early Childhood Center.

Learn about the kindergarten registration process and the importance of making sure students are registered early. Get an overview of the kindergarten program from ECC Director Mrs. Melinda Brunner, and hear from the Director of Transportation, the District Nurse and a representative from Safety Town. There will also be an opportunity to walk around the building and talk to some of the kindergarten teachers. Information about community childcare and preschool providers and the Kinderday program will also be provided.

To ensure that all parents are able to attend this important information night, free babysitting will be provided at the ECC during the presentation. For additional information or questions, please contact the ECC office at 440-427-6360.

JUNIOR PARENT COLLEGE NIGHT – TOMORROW NIGHT, MARCH 1ST

Attention junior students and parents: You are invited to attend our Junior Parent College Night Thursday, March 1^st at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium. Information will be given about post-high school planning, college options, and financial aid.

STEVE HARPSTER SPEAKS TO STUDENTS AT FALLS-LENOX

Author and illustrator Steve Harpster spoke to the students on Monday, February 27th as part of Right to Read Week at Falls-Lenox. Mr. Harpster’s presentation began by discussing a surprising connection he has with the school – he drew the artwork for the “Kelso’s Choices” program taught at Falls-Lenox! He also showed his artwork from first grade to present to emphasize the role of imagination and “practice” to succeed.

The second portion of his presentation was interactive. Students brought pencils and paper so they could follow along as Steve drew characters on his iPad. He showed them how to draw pictures from numbers and letters – such as a shark from the number 4, a sea turtle from the number 10, and a monster from the letter “S”. At the conclusion of the presentation, Steve asked everyone to show him their favorite drawing as they exited. Students and teachers alike proudly complied. Afterwards, many said it was one of the best presentations they had seen.

Contest winners with Steve Harpster; Pictured left to right: Giana Formica, Maxine Baker, Steve Harpster, Nick Shopp, Lindsey LaPinta, Eddie Goetz, and Taylor Connelly.

Steve generously offered to do his presentation at no charge to the school or the PTA, and 30% of the book sale goes back to Falls-Lenox. A flyer was sent home a few weeks ago, however it can be viewed HERE . The books “Drawing Animals with Numbers”, “Drawing Monsters with Letters”, and “Drawing Sea Animals with Numbers” may be purchased for $6 each through March 5th. Steve signs each book and draws an original picture on the inside cover. Parents and students may also view Steve’s instructional videos at Harptoons.com.

For more photos from this event, click HERE.

TUNE IN TO WEOL-AM 930 TOMORROW NIGHT TO LISTEN TO OFHS ACADEMIC TEAM SET A RECORD ON THE SCHOLASTIC GAMES RADIO QUIZ PROGRAM

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to histen to the OFHS Academic Team’s record-breaking performance on the Scholastic Games radio quiz program airing on WEOL-AM 930 tomorrow night, Thursday, March 1st beginning at 6:05 p.m.

More details on this record-breaking performance to follow in next week’s blog! Stay tuned….

MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN MATHCOUNTS CHAPTER COMPETITION

On Saturday, Feb. 18th, Andrew Gluvna, Sai vemula, Jack Wu and Shalin Desai represented Olmsted Falls Middle School at the MathCounts Chapter competition at Cleveland State University. This was a first time event for our school district and is open only to students in Middle School grades 6th – 8th.

The students experienced the fascination, frustration, and triumph of solving mathematic, geographic, and scientific problems regardless of grade level and ability. All students received certificates and MathCounts ribbons for their participation. Parent, Binta Patel, served as volunteer coach for the students.

EIGHT OFHS SOPHOMORES SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN ANNUAL COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP

Sophomore representatives from OFHS participating in Community Leadership Workshop (L to R): Lauren Walchanowicz; Leah Walchanowicz; Mike Zeber; Rosalyn Miranda; Joe Gibson; Samantha Buck; and Adelin Leung. Not pictured: Moises Garcia-Ponce.

The Middleburg Heights Kiwanis Club and Midpark High School hosted its 14th Annual Community Leadership Workshop (CLEW) this past Saturday. CLEW is a one-day program for top sophomores and its goal is to make students more knowledgeable about how communities operate, resulting in becoming better informed adults. Ten community leaders, including a mayor, a judge, a private investigator, a school administrator, a police officer, and an ODOT engineer, were presenters at the workshop. They focused on problem based scenarios to help the students understand community leadership responsibilities. Participants, pictured above, included Rosalyn Miranda, Moises Garcia-Ponce, Mike Zeber, Joe Gibson, Samantha Buck, Adelin Leung, Lauren Walchanowicz, and Leah Walchanowicz.

OFHS SCHEDULING FOR NEXT SCHOOL YEAR 2012-2013

FALLS-LENOX FAMILY LITERACY NIGHT FOR THIRD GRADE

ATTN: Falls-Lenox Families! Third grade Literacy Night is Thursday, March 15th from 6:00-7:45 p.m. All Literacy Nights so far have been fun and engaging evenings for the children and their families. We hope to see you there!

ARMED SERVICES VOCATIONAL APTITUDE BATTERY (ASVAB) TEST AVAILABLE FOR JUNIORS AND SENIORS

Olmsted Falls High School will offer the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test for any junior or senior interested in learning more about military careers. The test is scheduled on Friday, March 16, 2012 at 7:00 a.m. in the high school guidance office. Students can register for the test with their school counselor. Read more about the ASVAB by clicking HERE.

OFHS SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION BEGINS MARCH 5^TH

FREE COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP / FINANCIAL AID ADVICE AVAILABLE FOR OFHS PARENTS & STUDENTS

Is college just around the corner for your student? If so, OFHS is providing the opportunity for parents to meet individually with financial advisor Mr. Dave Minich from College Now of Greater Cleveland. Mr. Minich has more than 40 appointments available to personally meet with parents/students to help connect them with different college scholarship and funding opportunities. Mr. Minich can also help with filing for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Parents are highly encouraged to take advantage of this great opportunity! Below please find the dates and time frames for scheduling appointments with Mr. Minich:

This Saturday, March 3 (Saturday – OFHS Library) 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

March 13 (OFHS Guidance Office) 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

April 10 (OFHS Guidance Office) 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Please call Ms. Tommye Laut in the HS Counseling Department at 427-6116 to schedule your appointment today.

MIDDLE SCHOOL BULLDOG STARS OF THE WEEK

A bulldog star has shown exemplary Bulldog Spirit either academically or socially within our school community.

Please click here for this week’s Stars of the Week.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THE UPCOMING POST PROM FUNDRASING EVENTS

Wednesday, March 7th – North Olmsted Chick-Fil-A – Mention Olmsted Falls Post Prom and we will receive a portion of the sales.
Thursday, April 19th – Dodgeball tournement at the OFHS, more details to come.
Saturday, April 28th - Wing Night/Chinese Raffle, more details to come.

POST PROM COMMITTEE THANKS BULLDOG DINERS!

The OFHS Post Prom committee would like to thank Angelina’s Pizza and all who ordered their Take-n-Bake pizzas and gift certificates. We hope you enjoyed your pizza and thank you for supporting Post Prom!

LAS VEGAS NIGHT A SUCCESS!

The Alumni Association would like to thank you for your support in helping make last Saturday’s Las Vegas Night such a success! In addition, thank you to all the volunteer dealers, wheel spinners, card shufflers, ticket takers and sellers that also contributed to the success of the night. A very special thank you to all our sponsors who made special donations: John Barnard’s Vitamix, Ann Reichle’s Angelina’s Pizza, Leonard Davidson, DDS, Ron Smith’s Nationwide, Bob Burkhart, Mary’s Hair Salon, Tony K’s, Trolley House Pub, and Crossfit Box. All proceeds from Las Vegas Night go toward scholarships for 2012 Seniors. For more photos, please click HERE.

John Barnard of Vitamix and Alumni Board member presents Rick Zambrana (left) with his prize

UPCOMING CUYAHOGA COUNTY LIBRARY EVENTS FOR STUDENTS

Free ACT/SAT Workshop – Tuesday, March 13, 2012 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Olmsted Falls Branch Library. Huntington’s ACT/SAT Workshop was developed exclusively for college-bound high school students and their parents, and is designed to guide them through the college entrance process. Today’s high school students need to be as prepared as possible. This program covers a wide range of topics, including: factors influencing college admissions and facts about how college entrance exam scores are used, information you should know about the ACT, quick tips on preparing for college entrance exams, an overview of the college admissions timeline. Registration Requested. Sign up by phone 440.235.1150, in person, or through our website Cuyahogalibrary.org

Hip Hop Camp – Monday through Friday March 26 – 31, 1pm – 4pm at Olmsted Falls Branch Library. 11-18 year olds! – develop your imagination, creativity and self-expression, as well as valuable skills in team work and critical thinking. We’ll cover DJing MCing (rapping), dance, and graffiti style art. Presented by the Progressive Arts Alliance. Attendees at this camp are entered into a raffle to win a scholarship to the Rhapsody Arts Summer Hip Hop Camp! A model release form must be signed by a parent or guardian before the start of the camp. Registration required, beginning February 13th. Sign up by phone 440.235.1150, in person, or through our website Cuyahogalibrary.org

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES/EVENTS:

Olmsted Falls Rec Soccer Registration: TONIGHT! Wednesday, Feb 29th, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the High School cafeteria. You can also register online! Please go to our website at www.olmstedsoccer.wordpress.com to see how easy it is to register your children online using PayPal. Also please note that practice times have been changed to 5:00, 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. Your child will not be put on a 5:00 team if you have not specified or selected anytime. We are closing the registration at the end of February, so we can have the teams formed sooner so you will know what time and night your child will be practicing. Free weekly, footskills – exclusively for Rec players only – have been scheduled for Spring. Please don’t be “shut out”, register TODAY. Also, avoid the late fee and register TODAY. Teams are now being formed.

Boy Scout Troop 201 Fundraiser: Moosehead Hoof & Ladder will donate 10% of your check to Troop 201 when you dine every Sunday in the month of March between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. This COUPON must be presented to your server for Troop 201 to receive the donation. Brunch is available on Sundays from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Troop 201 thanks you for your support!

The 2012 Four Planet Party: Cleveland State University is partnering with Cuyahoga Astronomical Association & Baldwin Wallace College to bring you “The 2012 Four Planet Party” at Edgewater State Park. The event kicks off at 7:00 p.m., Friday, March 2, in the lower parking section of the park. For more information, click HERE.

Categories: Uncategorized

Parent Update – February 22, 2012

February 22, 2012 Todd F. Hoadley 1 comment

THANK YOU SCHOOL COUNSELORS!

In honor of National School Counselor Week, we would like to extend a public thank you to all of our School Counselors for all that they do for the betterment of our students. School Counselors play a vital role in the academic, social, emotional success of all of our Bulldog students.

Pictured L to R: OFHS School Counselors Mrs. Sherry Davis, Mrs. Lauren Peterson and Ms. Lisa Meinhardt; OFIS School Counselor Mr. Mark Tabar; and OFMS School Counselors Mrs. Christine Palmer and Mrs. Kathy Suvak. Not pictured: Falls-Lenox/ECC School Counselors Mrs. Angie Butto and Ms. Lacey Gordon (Interim).

The daily efforts of our School Counselors help our students and our school system to be successful. These individuals are keenly aware of the challenges and tribulations that many of the students struggle with on a daily basis. We are grateful for our School Counselors for their professionalism, their leadership, and their courage to always do right by kids.

Thank you again for all that you do!

DISTRICT RECEIVES OHIO AUDITOR OF STATE AWARD

Olmsted Falls School District Treasurer's Office Staff (L to R): Assistant Treasurer Maria Bartulica, Fran Grega (Payroll), Treasurer Mark Hullman, Holly McFadden (Accounts Payable/Inventory) and Sharon Black (Accounts Payable).

Olmsted Falls School District has been presented with the Ohio Auditor of State Award from the Office of State Auditor Dave Yost. This award was presented for the District’s exemplary financial reporting in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) for the year 2011. Congratulations to both the team in the Treasurer’s Office and the staff of Olmsted Falls School District! It takes a cooperative and collective effort to ensure effective and accountable financial practices are in place for an organization. Olmsted Falls School District is very proud of this award.

MEET MS. GIAMBOI

Olmsted Falls School District is truly fortunate to have an outstanding group of teachers working with our students each school day. Ms. Gabrielle Giamboi is a moderate / intensive intervention specialist who works at Olmsted Falls Intermediate School. Ms. Giamboi works with students who have various physical and developmental disabilities. She is an advocate for her students and makes sure they get the best possible education and services available. In addition to her work during the regular school day, Ms. Giamboi is also extremely active in our local community. She is a team captain and the head of team development for the Relay for Life benefitting the American Cancer Society. She is also involved in the Cure Tay-Sachs Foundation and actively supports their fundraising efforts. Ms. Giamboi is also always willing and ready to help out her colleagues. She recently helped to organize a fundraiser for a teacher who lost her husband. Mrs. Giamboi is a strong leader in both our district and in our community!

OFHS ALUMNUS SETS SIGHTS ON BECOMING U.S. NAVY SEAL

Olmsted Falls High School Class of 2007 alumnus Kyle Reese is making news this week with an inspiring goal he has set for himself. Please click HERE to read the story about Kyle Reese from this week’s Akron Beacon Journal.

Kudos to Kyle and best of luck as he pursues his dream of becoming a U.S. Navy Seal!

To read more about Kyle’s career at Kent State University, please click HERE.

KINDERGARTEN INFORMATION NIGHT – THURSDAY, MARCH 1^ST

If you, or someone you know, will be registering a kindergarten student in Olmsted Falls Schools for the upcoming 2012-2013 school year, you’ll want to be sure to attend Kindergarten Information Night scheduled for next Thursday, March 1^st from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at the Early Childhood Center.

To ensure that all parents are able to attend this important information night, free babysitting will be provided at the ECC during the presentation. For additional information or questions, please contact the ECC office at 440-427-6360.

ATHLETES ENJOY 2^ND ANNUAL BASEBALL WINTER SKILLS CAMP

The 2nd Annual Olmsted Falls Baseball Winter Skills Camp was a HUGE success!

More than 60 campers attended the 2 day event (January 16th & February 20th) at the new Up to Bat facility in Brooklyn.

More than 25 high school players and the Bulldog Coaching Staff gave up their days off of school to help instruct the future Bulldogs in the areas of hitting, fielding, throwing, bunting, and pitching.

Our next camp is the annual “Early Bird Baseball Camp” at OFHS. Date is TBA.

BATTLE OF THE SCHOOLS DODGEBALL GAME A SUCCESS

Last week’s Battle of the Schools Dodge Ball Game, a fundraiser for the OFHS PTA, was a great success. Administrators and staff from across the District played three spirited games of dodge ball in front of a packed gymnasium full of students and their families.

It was hard to tell who had more fun – the spectators or the players!

The Falls-Lenox/ECC team defeated the team from OFIS in the first round of play. The OFHS team defeated the team from OFMS in the second round. The third and final round of play put Falls-Lenox/ECC against OFHS for a hard-fought game. The team from OFHS emerged as the winners in this final round of play. To view a photo gallery from this year’s event, please click HERE.

Kudos to all of our staff and administrators for their participation in this year’s fundraiser event which raised $5,222.50! All funds raised will go toward PTA scholarships for graduating seniors.

Thank you PTA for coordinating this fundraising event!

OLMSTED FALLS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ANNUAL LAS VEGAS NIGHT – THIS SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25TH

The Annual Olmsted Falls Alumni Association Las Vegas Night, featuring gambling, food and fun, will be held at the Irish-American Club, 8559 Jennings Rd., Olmsted Township on Saturday, February 25, from 7 p.m. to midnight. There will be a cash bar, refreshments, door prizes, big wheel, dice, black jack, let it ride, poker, Texas hold ‘em, 50/50 raffle and VitaMix raffle. All profits go towards scholarships for the OFHS class of 2012. Tickets are $5 in advance, $6 at the door. Call the Alumni Office at 440-427-6030 for tickets or more information. 21 and over please. Hope to see you there!!

“LEGISLATOR FOR A DAY” READING CONTEST

State Representative Michael Dovilla is hosting a “Legislator for a Day” reading contest for Olmsted Falls students in Grades 1-6. Children can pick up a bookmark at the Olmsted Falls branch and record five books that they have read on the back of the bookmark. Once the books have been read and recorded, participants should return the bookmark to the library no later than THIS FRIDAY, February, 24, 2012. One child will be randomly selected as “Legislator for a Day”. Winners will receive a VIP tour of the Ohio Statehouse, which will include participating in a mock legislative hearing and lunch with Mr. Dovilla. If you have any questions, please contact Liza Kahoe Arthur at 235-1150.

OFHS SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION BEGINS MARCH 5^TH

FREE COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP / FINANCIAL AID ADVICE AVAILABLE FOR OFHS PARENTS & STUDENTS

Is college just around the corner for your student? If so, OFHS is providing the opportunity for parents to meet individually with financial advisor Mr. Dave Minich from College Now of Greater Cleveland. Mr. Minich has more than 40 appointments available to personally meet with parents/students to help connect them with different college scholarship and funding opportunities. Mr. Minich can also help with filing for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Parents are highly encouraged to take advantage of this great opportunity! Below please find the dates and time frames for scheduling appointments with Mr. Minich:

Feb 28 (OFHS Guidance Office) 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

March 3 (Saturday – OFHS Library) 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

March 13 (OFHS Guidance Office) 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

April 10 (OFHS Guidance Office) 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Please call Ms. Tommye Laut in the HS Counseling Department at 427-6116 to schedule your appointment today.

MIDDLE SCHOOL BULLDOG STARS OF THE WEEK

A bulldog star has shown exemplary Bulldog Spirit either academically or socially within our school community.

Please click here for this week’s Stars of the Week.

OFIS PTA PARTNERS WITH OLMSTED COMMUNITY CENTER FOR SATURDAY ACTIVITY NIGHT DONATION PROGRAM IN FEBRUARY

Saturday Activity Nights, a youth program that hosts gym activities, DJ/dance party, craft, games and fun for ages 8-14, from 7-10 p.m. on Saturdays at the Olmsted Community Center (8170 Mapleway Dr., Olmsted Falls) will partner in February with OFIS PTA. All 4th and 5th grade students at OFIS will receive coupons that they can use at each of the Saturday Activity Nights in the month of February. Each coupon allows OFIS Students to receive a free drink. For each coupon used by OFIS students, the Saturday Activity Night program will give $1.00 back to OFIS PTA! Parents please encourage the use of these coupons and help our PTA earn money for OFIS.

OHIO PTA ACTIVITIES

Ohio PTA wants your photos! Looking for pics of members volunteering, social activities, meetings/conferences, PTA sponsored activities with students, etc. They will be made into a slideshow for the Ohio PTA convention in April. Please email to Ana Chapman, Director of Communications, cubana@roadrunner.com.

Ohio PTA is sponsoring a Cooking Together/Cooking Forever campaign, featuring educational videos, enrichment materials, and possible cook-off. It is a free program that is open to PTA parents to do on their own free time.

To sign up go to www.programsfsc.org, click on the sign up button, enter your PTA name and unit ID, the approx. # of families in your school, and your contact information. Everything you need will be emailed to you.

UPCOMING CUYAHOGA COUNTY LIBRARY EVENTS FOR STUDENTS

Categories: Uncategorized

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