It’s
AHS Top 10%
Alliance High School celebrated the Top 10% of the Class of 2025 with a dessert banquet on Wednesday, May 7. The students and guests had the pleasure of hearing from guest speaker and AHS alum Daniel R. Griffith ('95), and had the opportunity to recognize an honored educator who has made a positive impact in their lives.
Vincent Anderson will be attending the University of Mount Union as an Investment Alliance Scholar to study civil engineering. His honored educator is Brian Snyder, construction trades teacher at AHS.
Kaia Canavan will be attending Baldwin Wallace University to study engineering. Her honored educator is Amy Latsch, math teacher at AHS.
Andrew Chunat will be attending college in the DC area to study foreign relations. His honored educator is David Reith, teacher at AMS.
Lydia Clair will be attending the University of Mount Union as an Investment Alliance Scholar to study early childhood education and intervention. Her honored educator is Joan Skidmore, retired teacher at AES.
Brooke Fiegenschuh will be attending the University of Mount Union as an Investment Alliance Scholar to study psychology. Her honored educator is Brianna Boehlke, history teacher at AHS.
Dustin Harvey will be attending the University of Central Florida to study biology. His honored educator is Amy Latsch, math teacher at AHS.
Jenna Heslop will be attending Washington University in St. Louis to study political science. Her honored educator is Brianna Boehlke, history teacher at AHS.
Avery Horning will be attending Spring Arbor University to study exercise science. Her honored educator is Liz Davis, Spanish teacher at AHS.
Lillian James will be attending the University of Mount Union as an Investment Alliance Scholar to study psychology. Her honored educator is Lori Gasparik, kindergarten teacher at AELS.
Madalyn Lake will be attending the University of Mount Union as an Investment Alliance Scholar to study early childhood education. Her honored educator is Erica Jackson, assistant principal at AIS.
Lawrence Lin will be attending the Ohio State University to study business and marketing. His honored educator is Liz Davis, Spanish teacher at AHS.
Kennedi Masters will be attending the University of Mount Union as an Investment Alliance Scholar to study engineering. Her honored educator is Kelly Eubank, auxiliary coach.
Mia Pasco will be attending the University of Mount Union as an Investment Alliance Scholar to study communications and psychology. Her honored educator is Chris Schillig, English teacher at AHS.
26 Students Career Bound
26 Career Tech Students committed to careers in their field of study following graduation. These students have full-time jobs with benefits at local businesses in their respective fields.
During their Junior and Senior years, the students had the opportunity to participate in a career tech program of their choosing. The programs offered them a comprehensive learning experience complete with in-the-field experiences and industry recognized credentials that set them up for success in their future careers.
Thank you to the companies who have partnered with Alliance City Schools to provide job opportunities to our hardworking students.
As of the signing ceremony on Monday, May 5, the following students had committed to local companies for full-time employment.
Ohio Gratings, Inc. - Gannon Bing, Nathan Stansbury, Tucker Lam and Nicholas Otto
W.J. Egli Co., Inc. - Jason Yoder
Apollo Prince will be attending the University of Mount Union as an Investment Alliance Scholar to study sports business. His honored educator is Coty Lipply, soccer coach and science teacher at AHS.
Kylee Puckett will be attending the University of Mount Union as an Investment Alliance Scholar to study nursing. Her honored educator is Stephanie McKnight, sports medicine teacher at AHS.
Blake Pue will be attending Kent State University to study graphic design. His honored educator is Robb Quicci, digital art and design teacher.
Madalynn Redinger will be attending the University of Cincinnati to study nursing. Her honored educator is Chris Schillig, English teacher at AHS.
Kaitlyn Waite will be attending Cleveland State University to study sports and entertainment management. Her honored educator is Chelsea Shar, video productions teacher at AHS.
Brady White will be attending the University of Mount Union as an Investment Alliance Scholar to study mechanical engineering. His honored educator is Mark Pisanello, baseball coach and math teacher at AHS.
Carnation Design Products Inc. - Keith Koons
CPA Fabrication & Repair - Samuel Allen
East Trailer Manufacturing - Zachary Cooper, Connor Beckett, Kyle Murphy, Joseph Rowser, Noah Ward, Maxwell Yeager, Quinn Callock and Corrie Bezon
MAC Trailer - Cassidy Bruce, Elizabeth Neal and Jacob Spurlock
Plaso Construction - Andrew Fortune
Vans Tire Pro’s Auto Repair - Logan Ramsey
Lavery Automotive - Aeden Rich and Jayce Zagray
U.S. Army - Le’Ann Wagler
Hammond Construction - Maylie Gillman
Harding Heating and Cooling - Isaiah Cameron
Dehoff’s Nursery - Jason Mergenthaler
Teacher of the Year: Julie Hale
A veteran teacher of 31 years, Julie Hale has been a devoted and exceptional teacher for all the students she has had the privilege of teaching. Her dedication to teaching and influential nature among her peers has set her apart over the years and has earned her the honor of being selected as the 2025 Alliance City Schools Teacher of the Year.
“Being the Teacher of the Year is something I never expected,” Hale explained. “It is very humbling, but also motivating to continue growing as a teacher.”
She currently teaches reading/language arts to third graders at Alliance Elementary School. Her passion for teaching is reignited each year with a new class of students she is able to watch grow and progress throughout the school year. She strives to make her classroom a home for the students and to show them that they are loved and cared about.
“I hope that my students remember that I loved them,” Hale said. “I hope they remember that our class wasn’t just about passing tests, but a place where they felt safe and had a lot of fun.”
Being a language arts teacher, she loves seeing a student’s reading skills develop, and watching as struggling students begin to read passages smoothly while their passion for reading expands. Hale recognizes each student is an individual and their needs might not be the same as the other students. She wants each one to feel valued for who they are.
“One way I think I make students feel valued is by getting to know not just their strengths and weaknesses, but also their stories. I love knowing about them outside of the classroom,” she said.
She can often be seen in the stands at her students’ sporting events and supporting them in more ways than just their education.
Hale loves being a part of the Aviator team and showing her Aviator pride over the years.
“We have so many wonderful programs, teachers and staff members who make a difference everyday,” she said.
To a new teacher joining the Alliance team, she would encourage them to have fun and make connections with students a priority.
“If students know that they are safe, respected and loved, the rest will usually fall into place,” she explained.
Rookie of the Year: Bailey Balderson
Even though it’s only her first year, Bailey Balderson has been a fantastic addition to Alliance Early Learning School as a kindergarten teacher. Inspired by her mother, Michelle Balderson, she entered education ready to make a positive impact in the lives of students she would be fortunate enough to educate.
“My first year teaching was amazing,” Balderson said. “It was full of learning, laughter and a lot of personal and professional growth. I felt so lucky to have such a wonderful group of students who made coming to school every day a joy.”
Balderson began the year making it a priority to get to know each of her students individually. She wanted to build connections with the little five and six year olds by learning what they enjoy, what makes them proud and what they might be struggling with. She strived to create a classroom where she built trust with the students and made sure they felt seen, heard and safe. Watching her students grow both personally and academically made saying goodbye to her first class of kindergartners so hard at the end of the school year.
Even on the tough days in this new career, seeing the students reminds her why she decided to pursue education.
“Even on the hardest days, a smile, a breakthrough moment, or even just a funny comment from one of them keeps me going,” Balderson explained.
While a great year, it also came with a learning curve, which included being flexible and giving herself a bit of grace at times.
“Life is not scripted nor are lesson plans,” she said. “As an educator, I have learned to adapt and adjust and do what is needed in the moment.”
Along with the guidance from her mom, the retired director of elementary education for ACS, Balderson also had a positive mentor in Kate Harris, a first grade teacher at AELS. She has supported and offered kind words and guidance throughout the year. Balderson was also fortunate enough to learn from kindergarten teachers Tracy Bowser and Lori Gasparik who offered time, wisdom and encouragement.
“I can honestly say every teacher at AELS has given me some form of support and I am happy to be a part of this effective team,” Balderson said. “I’m excited to keep growing and learning as an educator. Every year brings new students and new opportunities to make a difference. I can’t wait to see how my teaching evolves and the many more incredible students I will have the honor of impacting along the way.”
Classified Employee of the Year: Susan Bailey
Alliance City Schools is proud to announce Susan Bailey as the first ever Classified Staff Member of the Year. Along with recognizing a Teacher and Rookie of the Year annually, ACS will recognize the hard working individuals who serve the district in a variety of capacities with this annual distinction.
Bailey has worked for ACS for nearly 25 years as a bus driver. With young kids at home, becoming a bus driver was the perfect fit for her and her family.
While her days are fairly consistent with picking up kids to take to school and dropping them back off at home, it’s the students and the parents that continue to make her work enjoyable after two and a half decades.
“I am blessed to have a great bond with all of the kids and parents,” she explained. “I also have a great group of co-workers.”
As soon as the students board her bus in the morning or in the afternoon, she is solely responsible for their safety as she transports them to their destination. This is a responsibility Bailey does not take lightly. Along with ensuring safe travels, she wants to make sure students start and end their days with a smile. Bailey’s friendliness and compassion for each and every student and family is evident with each interaction she has.
“Smile every day,” she encourages everyone. “You just never know who needs to see it.”
Outside of her work day, Bailey is an ordained minister and enjoys spending time with family.
Alliance City Schools is lucky to have her as a valued member of the team!
Hello Aviators!
The 2025-2026 school year is just around the corner. As we prepare for another year of challenges, successes, and even surprises, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Alliance Community for your continued support of our district.
Public schools like ours are the foundation of our communities. They serve as a cornerstone for opportunity, growth, and connection. When our students thrive and our schools thrive, our communities thrive, and we can’t make that happen without you.
In ACS, we are incredibly fortunate to have citizens who value and support its schools in ways that many districts can only hope for. From every concert, sporting event or family oriented event hosted by our schools, you show up and support the students and schools.
Our mission is more involved than test scores and state report cards. It’s about nurturing, inspiring, and preparing our students - for life, for college, and for careers.
Thank you for continuing to stand with us in support of public education. Together, we are building a stronger Alliance for generations to come.
Rob
Gress Superintendent of Schools #ProudSupt
Congratulations to the staff members who received continuing contracts!
Matt Horning - Teacher at Alliance Middle School
Emily Grindley - Teacher at Alliance Elementary School
Rebecca Clark - Teacher at Alliance Preschool
Erica Thompson - Teacher at Alliance Preschool
Rachel Engle - Teacher at Alliance High School
Kristen Kuntzman - Teacher at Alliance High School
Erin Cullen - Teacher at Alliance High School
Congratulations to the 2025 Retirees!
Carol Jesse - Instructional Coach at Alliance Early Learning School
Sandi Mascitti - Teacher at Alliance Early Learning School
Bob Duncan - Teacher at Alliance Elementary School
Diana Fails - Teacher at Alliance Elementary School
Michele Weingart - Teacher at Alliance Elementary School
Ann Gemberling - Teacher at Alliance Intermediate School
Becky Blake - Teacher at Alliance Middle School
Jamie Randolph - Teacher at Alliance Middle School
DeAnn Zavarelli - Teacher at Alliance Middle School
Nancy Holub -Teacher at Alliance High School
Amy Miller - Teacher at Alliance High School
Brian Skidmore - Teacher at Alliance High School
Tammy Hagge - Manager of Food Nutrition Services
Michelle Balderson - Director of Elementary Education
Terri Miller - Secretary at Alliance High School
Students Excel at Summer School
Alliance Early Learning School was buzzing in June as nearly 100 students in kindergarten, first, and third grade took part in the district’s elementary summer school program. Led by principal Lori Gasparik, the program focused on building and reinforcing essential academic skills while keeping learning fun and providing special summer memories for the students in attendance.
“The goal of the summer school program was to help students reinforce core academic skills,” Gasparik said. “Summer school also tries to prevent the ‘summer slide’ that can occur during our time off for summer break.”
Unlike the traditional school year, summer instruction took on a more relaxed pace. Students started their day with breakfast, then had dedicated blocks for reading, math, recess and enrichment activities. The goal is to make it fun, so students can still enjoy their summer breaks while continuing to grow.
Summer school offers more individualized instruction with the smaller class sizes, including response to intervention (RTI), small group work and one-on-one support. It not only reinforces the skills they learned throughout the year, but offers a jump start on the next school year.
To keep students excited for summer school, a series of fun days were planned, some of which include extra recess, chalk writing, computer time and a trip to Fun Times, Fun Park. On the last day of school, the students had a special day planned for them. They traveled to Rodman Public Library for a celebration of completing the summer reading program, which all students did. As an addition to the celebration, the Alliance Fire Department brought a ladder truck and sprayed the students. They absolutely loved it!
“I hoped students left summer school knowing a little bit more than they already knew when coming in,” Gasparik said. “And had a little bit of fun in doing so.”
Alliance City Schools is proud to offer summer learning experiences that empower students and help them to grow in skill and confidence.
Alliance High School to Transition from iPads to Chromebooks
Beginning this school year, Alliance High School students will trade in their iPads for Chromebooks—a move designed to improve consistency, streamline digital learning, and better support students and staff across the district.
The switch marks the end of a nearly decade-long run with iPads at the high school, which were introduced in 2014 when Alliance became one of the first local districts to adopt one-to-one technology. Since then, however, the district has implemented Chromebooks in grades K-8 for more than eight years. Standardizing devices across all buildings will create a smoother learning experience for students and simplify technology support.
“Students will already be familiar with Chromebooks by the time they reach high school,” said Chad Morris, Director of Technology. “It also helps reduce the stress of transitioning between buildings, since the platform will feel consistent.”
In addition to being more cost-effective, Chromebooks offer several features better suited to high school learning, including built-in keyboards, multiple cameras, and improved compatibility with educational software. As a Google Workspace for Education district, AHS will benefit from the seamless integration of tools like Google Docs, Slides, Sheets, and Classroom.
High school teachers will continue to assign work in the same ways, but new tools will enhance the process. One of those tools is Kami, a program that lets students annotate directly on shared documents and submit them for feedback, all within the Chromebook environment.
Above all, the change reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to making smart, student-centered choices in technology. “From the beginning, we’ve prioritized doing what’s best for our students,” Morris added. “This move to Chromebooks supports that mission and positions us for continued success in digital learning.”
CTPD Receives 5 Stars
For the second consecutive year, the Alliance Career Tech Planning District (CTPD) has received the highest possible rating of 5 stars on the state report card. Comprising three districts, the CTPD currently offers 14 programs, with a 15th program starting in the fall.
Alliance, Marlington, and Salem high schools provide Career Tech Education (CTE) programs for junior and senior students, offering specialized training, industry-recognized certifications, and credential opportunities while they are still in high school. Each program is designed to prepare students for both career readiness and college pathways, depending on its focus.
“The Alliance Career Tech Planning District is thrilled to receive a 5-star rating,” said Shawn Jackson, Director of Secondary Education for Alliance. “This recognition is a direct reflection of the hard work of our students, the dedication of our teachers, and the support of our families and community. It means our students are not only graduating but leaving our programs prepared for successful careers and further education. We are incredibly proud of this achievement and will continue to provide the opportunities and training that help our students build bright futures.”
Students enrolled in these programs spend three to four class periods gaining hands-on experience in their respective fields. They also participate in work-based learning experiences throughout the year, giving them firsthand insight into the skills and requirements of their chosen careers.
“Marlington is extremely proud to be a part of this accomplishment for the program,” said Chad Hilliard, CTE Director at Marlington. “This recognition is a direct reflection of the commitment that we have to our students. The administration, teachers and students are all thankful for the leadership and vision of the planning team, and we look forward to continuing to help our programs lead students to career paths that they are passionate about.”
The CTPD is graded based on the following criteria: Achievement, Graduation Rate, Career & Post-Secondary Readiness and Post Program Outcomes. The Alliance CTPD met all necessary indicators to achieve the 5-star rating.
With another high rating secured, the Alliance Career Tech Planning District continues to set the standard for career tech education. By providing students with real-world experiences, industry certifications, and hands-on training, the programs ensure that graduates are prepared for success in college, careers, and beyond.
PROGRAMS OFFERED
Alliance
Auto Tech
High School
Construction Trades
Cosmetology
Culinary Arts (starting Fall 2025)
Digital Art & Design
Premedical Professions
Sports Medicine
Video Productions
Welding
Marlington High School
Engineering
Horticulture
Software & Web Design
Landscape Design
Natural Resources Energy
Salem High School
Precision Machining
ACS Wins BCME Award for the Fifth Time!
Alliance celebrates this outstanding five-time national recognition for our vibrant, student-centered music programs.
For the fifth time, Alliance City Schools has been named a Best Community for Music Education by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation. This prestigious national recognition celebrates ACS’s ongoing commitment to making high-quality music education accessible to all students from kindergarten through high school.
The Best Communities for Music Education award is presented annually by the NAMM Foundation to school districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to every student. Alliance previously received this distinction in 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024, and now again in 2025.
At ACS, music education is more than a class; it’s a core part of every student’s experience. All students begin music instruction in kindergarten, where they not only learn the fundamentals but also get the chance to perform on stage at Alliance High School’s auditorium.
At Alliance Intermediate School, general music and choir are offered. At Alliance Middle School, options expand to include general music, band, orchestra, and choir. By the time students reach Alliance High School, they can choose from a wide array of musical experiences: marching and jazz bands, orchestra, concert choir, choralaires, show choirs like Jetsetter and Aviatrix, and a variety of other music-focused classes.
None of this would be possible without the passion and dedication of the incredible Aviator music staff. From leading elementary students through joyful performances to preparing high school ensembles for the stage, they inspire and uplift students every single day.
ACS is proud to hit the right notes year after year. Congratulations to the music educators, students, and families for helping Alliance continue to be a Best Community for Music Education!
Alliance City Schools Earns State Recognition for Financial Excellence
ACS Earns Another Auditor of State Award for Financial Excellence
Alliance City Schools has once again been honored with the Ohio Auditor of State Award, which recognizes excellence in financial reporting and accountability. This award reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accuracy in every aspect of its financial operations.
The Auditor of State Award is given only to public entities that meet a stringent set of criteria. To qualify, districts must submit timely financial reports, receive a “clean” audit with no findings, and have no financial concerns or ethics violations noted. Earning this distinction is no small feat, and ACS has now received the award eight times.
“This recognition is truly a team effort,” said Treasurer Kirk Heath. “The award is based on the examination of the District’s financial records, internal controls, and compliance with laws and regulations; it really represents the work of everyone across the district. Everyone plays a role in maintaining strong financial practices, from building staff and department heads to administrators and support teams.”
The award highlights the hard work of Heath and his dedicated team in the Treasurer’s Office, who consistently uphold the district’s high standards for accuracy and integrity. Their efforts ensure that public resources are managed wisely and that ACS remains a trusted steward of taxpayer dollars.
Alliance City Schools continues to prioritize sound financial planning to support its mission of preparing students for life, college, and careers. By maintaining clean audits and transparent practices, ACS builds trust with the community while keeping students at the heart of every decision.
Congratulations to the entire ACS team for once again earning this well-deserved recognition!
Important AHS Parking Reminder
With spring sports in full swing, we want to remind everyone that parking is strictly prohibited along the driveway by Len Dawson Field at all times (as shown in red on the map below).
This area must remain clear for emergency vehicles, which need immediate access via the Rockhill driveway.
Please be mindful of where you park and only use designated parking areas, which include:
• Lots behind and along the side of Alliance High School
• The small lot by the softball field
• The small lot near Len Dawson Field
Thank you for your cooperation as we work to ensure the safety of all athletes, coaches, officials and visitors at our sporting events!
Staggered Start Dates
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 20
First of Day School for Grades 1, 2, 4, 6, 9
Start/End Times
THURSDAY, AUG. 21
First Day of School for Grades 3, 5, 6-7, 10-12
Early Learning School
K & GR 1
MONDAY, AUG. 25
First Day of School for Preschool & Kindergarten
School Supply Lists
Open House Dates
Monday, Aug. 18
Alliance Intermediate School 4:30-6 pm
Alliance Elementary School 4:45-6:15 pm
Tuesday, Aug. 19
Alliance Middle School 4-6 pm
Alliance Early Learning School (1st grade only) 4:30-6 pm
Wednesday, Aug. 20
Alliance High School 4-7 pm
Meet the Band Directors
Alliance City Schools is excited to welcome Charles Page as the new director of the Alliance High School Marching Band along with Nathan Fete as the assistant band director!
Charles Page brings a deep passion for music and a wealth of experience to Alliance City Schools as the new band director. A music educator since 2012, he began his career in Arkansas and has spent the past two years teaching in Ohio. Originally from West Monroe, Louisiana, Page has also lived in Mississippi and Missouri while pursuing his college degrees. He is also the first person to receive a Doctor of Tuba Performance degree from the University of Kansas.
When asked what makes him passionate about music, he responded with: "I have experienced the positive influence that music can have in all aspects of our lives. The impact that it continues to have on my personal growth and development as a teacher, husband, citizen, and puppy-papa, combined with the impact that I have seen it have on countless students, families, and communities, makes music invaluable and worthy of championing."
As the new director of the Pride of the Sky, Page is excited to meet the students and to start immersing himself into the culture and community of Alliance.
“The band program has a rich history steeped in tradition. I look forward to collaborating with everyone to continue cultivating a music experience of which the students and community will be proud."
Page will be joined by Nathan Fete as the assistant director and music teacher at Alliance Middle School.
Nathan Fete has been in music education full time for the past 5 years, having graduated from the University of Akron for undergrad and Kent State University with a graduate degree. He has worked with 10 different high school band programs over the past 11 years throughout Ohio. He is originally from Canton and currently lives in the Akron area.
When asked what makes him passionate about music, he said: "What makes me most passionate about music is watching and hearing about the students’ successes in both music and life. The best part of being a band director is being able to watch the students grow throughout their middle school and high school years."
He’s excited to work with the Alliance students and join the Aviator team this coming school year.
A meet and greet was held on July 1 for the students, families and community to meet the new directors.
All community members and families are encouraged to attend football games and band concerts throughout the year to meet the new directors and to celebrate the Pride of the Sky during the upcoming band season.