A DIGITAL MAGAZINE OF THE EDUCATIONAL SERVICE CENTER OF NORTHEAST OHIO
FIRST RING SCHOOLS
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Story on pages 18-19
6393 Oak Tree Blvd. Independence, OH 44131
(216) 524-3000
Fax (216) 524-3683
Robert A. Mengerink Superintendent
Jennifer Dodd Assistant Superintendent
Steve Rogaski Director of Pupil Services
Bruce G. Basalla Treasurer
GOVERNING BOARD
Christine Krol President
George Klepacz Vice President
Carol Fortlage
Anthony Miceli
William Morrison, Jr.
Editor:
Nadine Grimm
Contributors:
Jennifer Dodd
Paula Kucinic
Superintendent’s Message
By Dr. Bob Mengerink, Superintendent
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
As the 2024–2025 school year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible work happening in public education across Northeast Ohio. Every page of this newsletter highlights what we already know to be true: our public schools are vibrant, resilient, and deeply committed to helping every student thrive.
Whether it’s preparing students for future careers, providing safe and supportive learning environments, expanding access to mental health services, or embracing innovation, our districts continue to lead with purpose. The passion and professionalism of educators, support staff, families, and community partners are what make our schools such vital centers of hope and opportunity.
Public education is more than a system—it’s a promise. A promise that every child, regardless of zip code, background, or circumstance, deserves a strong start and a path forward. It’s a promise that’s kept every day by the people and programs featured in these stories. We are proud to be your partner in that promise.
As you head into summer, I hope you find time to rest, reflect, and recharge. Know that the ESC of Northeast Ohio remains committed to walking alongside you—supporting your vision, amplifying your efforts, and celebrating your successes.
With gratitude and pride,
Longtime ESC Board Member Tony Miceli for Three Decades of Service
Honored
In a moving ceremony, the Educational Service Center (ESC) of Northeast Ohio recently honored Tony Miceli for his remarkable 30-year tenure on the governing board. ESC Superintendent Bob Mengerink delivered a heartfelt tribute highlighting Miceli's unwavering dedication and the significant growth the ESC has experienced under his leadership.
"Tony Miceli's name has become synonymous with dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment to public service," Mengerink said during the presentation of the Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA) Award. "What we celebrate today is not just a milestone—but a legacy."
During Miceli's three decades of service, the ESC of Northeast Ohio has undergone tremendous expansion, growing from serving 30 to 48 client districts across five counties. The organization has increased its staff from 400 to more than 2,500 professionals and now supports over 200,000 students annually through various programs and services—nearly double the 120,000 students served when Miceli first joined the board. The ESC's budget has also seen substantial growth during this period, increasing from $75 million to over $180 million, reflecting the organization's expanded reach and impact on education throughout Northeast Ohio.
Mengerink emphasized that this growth wouldn't have been possible without Miceli's leadership and governance. "You've asked the right questions. You've insisted on excellence. You've stayed grounded in what matters most—our children and their future," he told Miceli during the ceremony. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mengerink praised Miceli's personal character,
describing his kindness, humility, and commitment to service as defining traits that have guided his work on the board. "You have not only served— you have led. You have not only stayed—you have shaped," Mengerink concluded. "And you have not only given 30 years—you've given your heart."
Miceli received the prestigious Ohio School Boards Association Award in recognition of his three decades of distinguished service to public education in Northeast Ohio. OSBA Representative Reno Contipelli presented Miceli with the award.
Left to right: ESC Superintendent Dr. Bob Mengerink, ESC Board Member Tony Miceli, Mayor Kim Thomas, Richmond Heights, ESC Board Member William Morrison, Jr.
OSBA Representative Reno Contipelli presents ESC Board Member Tony Miceli.
Dr. Bob Mengerink presents ESC Board Member Tony Miceli with an award.
ESC Superintendent Outlines Collaborative Initiatives at State of the Schools
The Educational Service Center (ESC) of Northeast Ohio has been actively expanding its services and partnerships to better support school districts and students in the region. During the Cuyahoga Valley Chamber of Commerce State of the Schools presentation this past May, Dr. Bob Mengerink, superintendent of the ESC, highlighted several key areas of focus for the 2024-25 academic year.
Driving Workforce Development & Career Readiness
The ESC continues to strengthen Northeast Ohio’s talent pipeline by building innovative pathways that connect students directly with career opportunities. Through regional hiring fairs, hands-on career exploration, and employability training modules, students are gaining real-world experience while earning school credit. In partnership with organizations like College Now, GCCC, YouScience, and local employers, ESC is helping districts reimagine high school as a launchpad to meaningful postsecondary options—whether through employment, college, or credentialing.
Innovating Through Artificial Intelligence & Technology
As AI and technology reshape education and the workforce, the ESC is leading the charge to ensure educators and students are prepared. From hosting the sold-out Northeast Ohio AI Summit to developing custom tools and dashboards for schools, the ESC is integrating cutting-edge technology into teaching, learning, and operations. With new learning networks, professional development, and cross-sector collaborations, the ESC is positioning Northeast Ohio as a model for responsible and forward-looking use of educational technology.
Expanding Access to Mental Health and Student Wellness
Supporting the whole child is central to the ESC’s mission. Over the past year, the ESC has expanded its leadership in mental health, prevention, and wellness through school-based health initiatives, suicide prevention training, and the development of digital tools to help educators respond to student needs. As the regional coordinator for schoolbased health care in Northern Ohio, the ESC plays a vital role in bridging education and health systems to ensure students are safe, supported, and ready to learn.
Empowering Early Childhood and Family Engagement
Recognizing that school readiness begins long before kindergarten, the ESC has launched a dedicated Department of Early Childhood to support districts, families, and county partners. The ESC is leading regional networks, aligning with state agencies, and co-designing professional development to strengthen preschool programs and family engagement. From assisting with licensure transitions to expanding literacy and behavior support in early learning settings, the ESC is helping to ensure that every child gets a strong start.
Strengthening Regional Collaboration Across Systems
The ESC continues to bring education, business, government, and nonprofit sectors together to address shared challenges and opportunities. Through its Shared Services Alliance, regional leadership networks, and collaborative grants, the ESC is delivering operational efficiency, policy advocacy, and new services across 40+ districts and numerous public entities. This commitment to partnership and cross-sector problem-solving ensures Northeast Ohio schools can innovate, adapt, and grow to meet evolving community needs.
Matt Young, superintendent of Cuyahoga Heights Local Schools; David Mangas, superintendent of Cuyahoga Valley Career Center; Dr. Bob Mengerink, superintendent of the ESC of Northeast Ohio; and Kelli Cogan, superintendent of Independence Local Schools
ESC Board Member Dr. Christine Krol
Receives
15 Year Distinguished Board Member Award
Ohio School Boards Association Representative Reno Contipelli presented ESC of Northeast Ohio’s Board President Dr. Christine Krol with a 15 Year Distinguished Board Member Service Award for her commitment to serving on the ESC board.
Enhancing Literacy Implementation: Building Strong Writers Across All Content Areas
By Jamie Smith, Teaching and Learning Consultant
On May 1, 2025, 51 educators — including teachers, curriculum directors, and literacy leaders — participated in a full-day professional development session on Explicit Writing Instruction based on strategies from The Writing Revolution 2.0 by Judith Hochman and Natalie Wexler.
Unlike a standalone curriculum, The Hochman Method is an approach designed to be seamlessly embedded within any subject area across grades K–12. Throughout our region, many districts have begun integrating these strategies into their classrooms. Educators from Shaker Heights, Willoughby-Eastlake, Maple Heights, Mayfield City, Lakewood, PEP, Stow Munroe Falls, Cleveland Metropolitan, Bedford, Barberton, Constellation Schools, Rocky River, and T-Squared Honors Academy were among those represented during the training.
During the session, participants explored the “why” behind explicit writing instruction and learned actionable strategies, including:
» Sentence-level work to build strong writing foundations
» Techniques for teaching well-organized, elaborated paragraphs
» Scaffolds for composing multi-paragraph pieces
» Practical revision techniques to strengthen student writing
Some of The Writing Revolution’s guiding principles include:
» Students need explicit instruction in writing. Speaking and reading abilities do not automatically transfer to writing skills. Through teacher modeling, gradual release, and consistent feedback, students can develop stronger writing across all subjects.
» Writing can and should be taught across the curriculum. Embedding writing within content instruction advances students’ critical thinking and reinforces subject knowledge. As Natalie Wexler, author of The Knowledge Gap, notes, “Teaching writing is not only inseparable from teaching content, it can also be tantamount to teaching students how to think critically.”
» Sentences are the building blocks of all writing. Strong writing begins with strong sentences. Without explicit instruction in sentence construction, grammar, syntax, and punctuation, students will struggle to produce well-organized paragraphs and essays.
The response to this initial training has been overwhelmingly positive, and additional sessions are scheduled for the 2025–2026 school year in October, January, and May. If you are interested in strengthening writing instruction across all content areas and empowering students to become better writers and thinkers, we invite you to join us for an upcoming session or reach out to us to bring this customizable training to your district! For more information about future opportunities, please contact Jamie Smith, Teaching and Learning Consultant.
Empowering Educators to Make
Data-
Informed Decisions Through the Centralized Reporting System (CRS)
This winter, the ESC of Northeast Ohio hosted a month-long Lunch & Learn series focused on utilizing the Centralized Reporting System (CRS) to access and analyze student data in meaningful ways. Nearly 300 educators registered, and feedback highlighted how much participants appreciated the opportunity to explore the system in real time to uncover relevant instructional insights.
To further support leaders in this work, we recently facilitated two in-person Train-the-Trainer sessions. Participants left equipped with a ready-to-use slide deck and note catcher to guide teachers through data discussions the day results are released. These full sessions created space to model how to lead productive, data-driven conversations— something leaders said gave them confidence and clarity for their upcoming work.
Looking ahead, we are offering two additional sessions designed to help leaders reflect on state test data and identify where celebration or additional support is needed for the upcoming school year.
We are thrilled by the high engagement from our local districts. At the ESC of Northeast Ohio, we believe that using assessment data to inform teaching and learning is critical—and we’re excited to partner with educators who are moving their learning forward to support student success.
Mental Health Symposium 2025 . . . “The Power of Partnership”
In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, The Educational Service Center, in partnership with local and regional organizations, hosted the 3rd Annual Mental Health Symposium on May 7, 2025. Centered on The Power of Partnership: Coordinating for Student Wellbeing, the event welcomed over 160 participants from child-serving systems across Cuyahoga County and beyond. Funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Trauma-Informed Supports in Schools grant, the symposium emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration to support student mental health and well-being. National and regional experts presented on topics including school-based comprehensive mental healthcare, trauma-informed care, restorative practices, family engagement, and systems-level coordination. Attendees engaged in rich discussions and gained practical strategies for strengthening partnerships among schools, families, and communities. The event reinforced the need for integrated
approaches to meet the complex needs of today’s youth and highlighted the shared responsibility in fostering safe, supportive learning environments. The collective energy and commitment of participants signaled strong momentum for advancing student wellbeing initiatives.
Communicating So People Will Listen
Three members of the Student Wellness Department had the honor of being invited to present at the Nora Prevention Series Training sponsored by the ADAMHS Board of Cuyahoga County. The team presented “Communicating so People will Listen; Utilizing Multiple Voices to Create a Comprehensive Prevention Approach” to 28 licensed and soon to be licensed Ohio Certified Prevention Specialists.
The lens we asked participants to use throughout the presentation was Youth Led Programs, with an emphasis on the importance of raising youth voice in Ohio. Youth Voice is a critical part of school climate initiatives, and has had demonstrated impacts in youth mental health, school safety,
teacher-student relationships, and even youth employment in Youth Led Chapters across Ohio. The team demonstrated several youth engagement activities so that all left with the tools and content to empower youth voice as an essential part of comprehensive prevention planning.
ESC will be hosting a similar training for all of our Northeast Ohio Districts on September 18 called “Engaging Youth Voice.” Register here if you are interested https://www.escneo.org/protected/ EventRegistration.aspx?rCode=5GAPG0
Cuyahoga Parents Connect: A Place Where Parenting Doesn’t Have to Be Done Alone
In Cuyahoga County, parents and caregivers don’t have to navigate their parenting journey alone. Cuyahoga Parents Connect began as a Facebook group created by Bright Beginnings, providing a dedicated space for connection, support, and shared experience.
This online community is designed specifically for parents and caregivers who live in Cuyahoga County. It offers a safe, nonjudgmental forum where members can share parenting wins, ask questions, give and receive advice, and access helpful resources.
Once admitted to the group, members can expect daily conversation prompts, parenting tips, details about local events, announcements about inperson family meetups, and resource-sharing across a variety of topics, from nap schedules to preschool choices and beyond.
Planning activities for parents to meet in person and for children to play together has become another opportunity, complementing the connections formed online. Popular events hosted by the group include our annual Snapshots with Santa, a Mother’s Day Hip Hop Dance Party,
parent/child dance classes at Dance Lakewood, and meet-ups at Kiddie Jungle. Cuyahoga Parents Connect also hosts frequent contests for members, often awarding annual family memberships to popular local destinations like the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Children’s Museum of Cleveland.
Parents and caregivers residing in Cuyahoga County with children from birth to kindergarten, or who are expecting, are encouraged to join the Facebook group. Cuyahoga Parents Connect additionally manages an Instagram account offering parenting inspiration and relatable content, and is open to all.
Cuyahoga Parents Connect is funded by the Cuyahoga County Office of Early Childhood for Invest in Children, and is a vital part of the Bright Beginnings Parent Support Department, which provides an array of parent support services in Cuyahoga County. Bright Beginnings also supports families in Cuyahoga County through Early Intervention services and connects them to the Help Me Grow system of supports and other vital community resources throughout Ohio.
Recognizing students, peers & educators
2025 EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARDS
On May 17, over 150 students, family members and educators from Cuyahoga County gathered for the 45th annual Excellence in Education Awards recognizing students with special needs, peers and educators. State Support Team 3 in partnership with the ESC of Northeast Ohio organized this annual event held at Corporate College East in Warrensville Heights.
Dr. Bob Mengerink, superintendent of the Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio, welcomed guests and kicked off the event. In his remarks, he noted this year’s theme of “No Limits, Only Possibilities” and how it reflects a mindset we see in each of the honorees.
“They remind us that limitations often live not in people, but in perceptions—and that when we shift our thinking and lift each other up, incredible things can happen.”
This year’s keynote address was delivered by 19-year-old Nathan Dodd, a media student and aspiring sports broadcaster from Willoughby. Nathan energized the audience with his humor, creativity, and heartfelt reflections on determination and following your dreams. A lover of sports and storytelling, Nathan reminded everyone that every voice has value— and every dream is worth pursuing.
Three types of awards were presented during this event:
» Outstanding Student Achievement Award acknowledging achievements of school-age students with special needs.
» Outstanding Peer Achievement Award recognizing students who have established positive relationships and who have assisted students with exceptionalities, serving as exemplary role models.
» Outstanding Educator Achievement Award honoring educators who are the exemplars in designing instructional strategies and programs.
Awards were presented to students, peers and educators. In addition, two regional awards were presented:
The 2025 R.A. Horn Outstanding Achievement Award recipient is Mae Sheehan from Independence High School, Independence Local Schools. This award is presented to one exemplary student with a disability from each of Ohio’s 16 State Support Team regions. Established by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce in honor of the late Dr. Raymond A. Horn, Assistant Superintendent of Public Instruction, this award recognizes students’ outstanding achievements.
The 2025 Franklin B. Walter Outstanding Educator Award recipient is Emily Herner, of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. This award is given to an outstanding educator from each of the 16 State Support Team regions in Ohio who has made extraordinary contributions to the education of students with disabilities. This award is given in honor of the late Franklin B Walter, Superintendent of Public Instruction from 1977 until 1991, a post held longer than any other state superintendent in Ohio’s history.
These two recipients will be recognized by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce - Office of Exceptional Children and the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities in June.
The full list of recipients can be found on page 14-15. Click here to watch a video that highlights the 2025 event.
Award Recipients
Brooklyn City Schools
» Chloe Martincic, Student Award, Brooklyn High School
» Giovanni Garst, Peer Award, Brooklyn High School
» Mary Feckner, Educator Award, Brooklyn High School
Cleveland Metropolitan School District
» Emily Herner, Educator Award, Garrett Morgan School of Engineering and Innovation
Cuyahoga Heights Local Schools
» Salvatore Grissman, Student Award, Cuyahoga Heights High School
» Angela Al Hachach, Peer Award, Cuyahoga Heights Elementary School
» Beth Pavic, Educator Award, Cuyahoga Heights High School
Independence Local Schools
» Mae Sheehan, Student Award, Independence High School
Lakewood City Schools
» Penny Hronek, Student Award, Horace Mann Elementary School
» Sloane Sutula, Peer Award, Horace Mann Elementary School
» Rachel Bonsky, Educator Award, Lakewood High School
North Olmsted City Schools
» Isaiah Dunson, Student Award, North Olmsted High School
» Delaney Macke, Peer Award, North Olmsted High School
» Sarah Mitchell, Educator Award, North Olmsted Middle School
Olmsted Falls City Schools
» Sarah Gaughan, Student Award, Olmsted Falls High School
» Isaac Altieri, Peer Award, Early Childhood Center
» Kim Krock, Educator Award, Early Childhood Center and Intermediate School Shaker Heights City Schools
» Devin Walker Jr., Student Award, Shaker Heights Middle School
» Nichole Kerr, Educator Award, Shaker Heights Middle School
Acknowledgment: This event was supported in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (Award #Q27A090111A, CFDA 84.027A, awarded to the Ohio Department of Education). The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs, and no official endorsement by the Department should be inferred.
By Wendy Jovan, Operation Manager, First Ring Student Leadership Institute
This year, more than 70 sophomores participated in the 2024-2025 First Ring Student Leadership Institute (FRSLI) where they worked to help solve important issues in their schools such as stress and mental health, school safety, motivation and engagement, and school spirit. Using a social justice framework called Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR), students conducted original research on their issues and based on the findings, pitched their recommendations to First Ring Superintendents at the end of the year. In the process they honed their skills in public speaking, teamwork and consensus building, critical thinking and leadership, and gained the confidence to share their views with others.
Almost 60 juniors and seniors returned for their second or third year in the program, collaborating with students from our sister program in central Ohio to investigate why fewer Ohio high school students are pursuing careers in education and how to encourage more to enter the field. Students learned about the “Teacher Pipeline” and its effect on school staffing and shortages at our first session in October. They developed an online survey targeting high school students across Ohio, and at the date of this writing have almost 1,300
respondents. This spring students shared their results with leaders in education at several Ohio colleges and universities, with superintendents and high school principals in Northeast Ohio, and in November will present their research and findings at OSBA’s Capital Conference
As facilitators, my colleagues and I are deeply impressed with the hard work, dedication and passion for change these students demonstrate. As one of our advisors said, “If you listen to students, they have insight on how to make schools better.” Thank you to the First Ring Superintendents and our many other partners for giving our students the opportunity to use their voices to make real change in their schools and communities.
Click here to read the 2024-25 Yearbook.
The First Ring Leadership Academy (FRLA) is a year-long professional development and leadership training program for new and emerging leaders in the 16 districts contiguous to the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. Participants are nominated by their superintendents in the beginning of each school year to become part of the cohort. The FRLA provides participants with an expanded knowledge base and skill set foundation to prepare them to assume additional leadership roles within their districts and continue improving district and individual outcomes to serve all levels of students within Cuyahoga County.
The Academy meets for nine sessions throughout the academic year with a focus on building leadership skills and district capacity to address the unique challenges of first ring, urban schools. Participants engage in a variety of learning activities
including leadership trait analyses, case studies, readings and reflections. Sessions are held at either the ESC of Northeast Ohio or First Ring districts. The FRLA is a key “build from within” system of educational excellence and leadership development that supports and benefits the entire First Ring regional area. This year, there were 21 participants in the program from across the 16 districts.
Click here to read the 2024-25 Yearbook.
HUMANITARIAN AWARD RECIPIENTS 2024 -2025 SCHOOL YEAR
The ESC of Northeast Ohio continues its annual tradition of recognizing exceptional middle and high school students with Humanitarian Awards. Selected by school administrators for their exemplary leadership, dedication to community service, and exceptional character, these remarkable young people represent the best of Cuyahoga Heights, Independence, and Richmond Heights Local Schools. Each recipient received a scholarship along with commemorative items including a custom plaque, starfish pin, and bookmark—symbols reflecting the powerful narrative of how a single individual can create meaningful change within their community.
Cuyahoga
Heights
Middle School
Abram (Bram) Podoll, 8th grade
Bram Podoll's quiet leadership and sincere compassion have had a lasting impact on the school community. He consistently demonstrates kindness, patience, and empathy in his interactions with others. Whether offering encouragement, assisting a peer without being asked, or simply showing up with a smile, Bram makes others feel seen and valued. What sets him apart is his ability to recognize when someone needs a friend, often stepping in before anyone else notices. His actions are never about recognition; they are rooted in a genuine desire to make life better for those around him. Bram's kindness is consistent and contagious, inspiring others to follow his example.
Cuyahoga Heights
High School
Lucianna (Luci) Ross, Senior
Luci Ross consistently demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to the well-being of those around her, regularly placing others' needs before her own. She has repeatedly shown genuine kindness and compassion to both peers and teachers. Her thoughtful nature and quiet leadership have been noticed by many. Mr. Kosovich noted, "Luci has been my go-to student to help develop new talent in Model UN. She has done it with grace and maturity helping underclassmen thrive at the conference, while her friends were in other groups." Luci's empathy and willingness to uplift others reflect a deeply rooted sense of humanity that embodies the values of respect, humility, and service.
Award presented by ESC Board President Dr. Christine Krol
Award presented by ESC Board President Dr. Christine Krol
Independence Middle School
Julianna Cherny, 8th grade
Julianna Cherny serves as a positive role model to her peers by consistently working diligently in all her classes while being actively involved in numerous school activities, including bowling club, recycle club, band, choir, drama, student council, and hope squad. Outside of school, she helps at her church by bringing in food, games, and drinks for holiday care packages. Julianna is kind, compassionate, and caring to both peers and adults. What stood out most is how she puts smiles on younger children's faces by making bracelets for them after school and her initiative in helping teachers with classroom tasks. Her conscientious and empathetic nature makes her wise beyond her years.
Richmond Heights Secondary School
Madelyn Harper, 8th grade
Madelyn Harper is a kind and helpful student who stands out for both her warm personality and strong academic performance. As a student in all honors classes with a 3.7 GPA, she works hard and sets a great example for her peers. Always willing to lend a hand, whether helping classmates understand difficult lessons or assisting teachers with classroom tasks, Madelyn is known for her positive attitude and willingness to step up. As president of the middle school student council, she takes her leadership role seriously, organizing events and listening to fellow students' concerns to make the school a better place for everyone.
Independence High School
Molly Dubitsky, Senior
Molly Dubitsky embodies the true spirit of kindness through her unwavering commitment to helping others. This year, she has been instrumental in supporting middle school music students, ensuring they had the resources and encouragement needed to fully participate in performances. Her compassion made a meaningful difference in the lives of many young musicians. Outside of school, Molly is deeply involved in the scouting community, where she regularly leads and completes service projects focused on improving the lives of those around her. Her quiet dedication, generous heart, and consistent efforts to uplift others make her an outstanding recipient of this Humanitarian Award.
Richmond Heights Secondary School Haleema Kazeem, Senior
Haleema Kazeem is an exceptional young leader whose dedication to academic excellence and community service sets her apart. Ranked at the top of her class, she challenges herself with a rigorous schedule of college and AP courses while serving as a class officer and active member of student council. Beyond academics, Haleema devotes her time to meaningful community service initiatives, consistently demonstrating compassion, leadership, and a commitment to making a positive impact. She embodies the true spirit of humanitarianism—uplifting others while striving for excellence in all she does.
Award presented by ESC Board Vice President George Klepacz
Award presented by ESC Board Member Carol Fortlage
Award presented by ESC Board Member William Morrison, Jr.
Award presented by ESC Board
Members William Morrison, Jr. and Anthony Miceli
An Inside Look at ESC Student Programs
If your district would like more information about any of these programs, please call 216-524-3000 or contact Steve Rogaski at steve.rogaski@escneo.org
Passport Program
Passport School Program serves students ages 5-22 with multiple disabilities and significant medical needs providing intensive educational, behavioral, and medical programming.
For information, contact: Lisa Adler, Supervisor lisa.adler@escneo.org
Crossroads Health
Crossroads Day Treatment Center provides therapy, instruction, and support services to stabilize and reintegrate K-12 students with emotional needs into public schools.
For information, contact: Robin Kline, ESC Crossroads Program robin.kline@escneo.org
Carrington School
Carrington School offers an on-site educational program with a curriculum widely accepted by home school districts to prevent the youth from being reported as truant.
For information, contact: Dr. Jerlisa Calhoun, Principal of Carrington School jerlisa.calhoun@escneo.org
Achievement Center for Children, Autism School
The Achievement Center for Children provides year-round, individualized instruction to students K-12 with autism or a similar disability category through a blended instructional model.
For information, contact: Kimberly Allen, Ed.S, Director of Education kimberly.allen@achievementctrs.org
Capstone Academy
Capstone Academy provides medical, therapeutic, and vocational services to children and adults with significant developmental and physical disabilities, as well as profound medically fragile conditions.
For information, contact: Mary Wideman, Program Administrator mary.wideman@escneo.org
Our ESC teaching and consulting staff provide direct instruction and technical/consultation services to children who are blind/visually impaired or deaf/hard of hearing.
For information, contact: Dana Lambacher, Special Education Supervisor dana.lambacher@escneo.org
CAPSTONE ACADEMY
For information, contact: Mary Wideman, Program Administrator mary.wideman@escneo.org 330-732-8249
Congratulations to the Capstone Academy Class of 2025!
Graduation is a major milestone for students at Capstone Academy. Unlike their peers in traditional school settings, our students face unique challenges due to profound multiple disabilities as well as medically complex conditions. Therefore, graduation is more than just a ceremony, it’s a celebration of each student’s hard work, resilience, and perseverance, made possible through the ongoing support of their families and dedicated school team. It marks the close of one chapter and the beginning of new opportunities as students transition into an adult day program.
This May, we’re excited to honor the Class of 2025 with a graduation ceremony that reflects each student’s individual journey. One of the highlights of the event will be personalized videos,
thoughtfully created with photos from childhood to young adulthood and set to music chosen by each graduate and their family. These touching tributes are followed by speeches from loved ones, sharing memories and words of encouragement. The ceremony will also feature remarks from Capstone Academy’s Program Administrator, who will speak to the remarkable growth of our students, and a representative from the adult day program, who will warmly welcome the graduates into this next phase of their lives.
We are so proud of our graduates and all they have accomplished. We look forward to celebrating their incredible journeys and wishing them continued success in the future.
For information, contact: Lisa Adler, Supervisor lisa.adler@escneo.org 440-688-1280
Aniya and Dae'Shon . . . Class of 2025 Passport Program Graduates
Passport School, located in the Metzenbaum Center at 8200 Cedar Road in Chesterland, serves students ages 5-22 with multiple disabilities and significant medical needs. The dedicated facility provides intensive educational, behavioral, and medical programming tailored to each student’s needs.
Aniya began school at Passport in the Fall of 2021. Aniya is in Rob’s class and comes to school every day with a
smile and a big hello. She is very social as she makes her way around Metz in her walker to say “hi” to the staff. She especially loves music and gym class and swimming on Tuesdays. Pictured are Aniya; Retta, PTA (background); Jennifer Moles, Director of Exceptional Students, and South Euclid Lyndhurst (SEL) School District presenting SEL diploma. Steve Rogaski, Executive Director of Human Resources and Pupil Services, ESC of Northeast Ohio, presented both graduates a Certificate of Completion.
Dae’Shon loves coming to school. He is a very social person and excited to greet the staff as he goes about his daily “jobs” of picking up and delivering the building’s mail and watering the plants. He loves to say “hey” as he greets the staff. Dae’Shon joined Passport School in 2016. Jonah Forte, Director of Special Education, Garfield
City Schools presented his diploma. Pictured are Retta, PTA; Kimiko, parent; Rob, Intervention Specialist; Lisa Adler, Director, Passport School Program (back row); Emily, TA; Dae’Shon; and Cody, TA (front).
Graduation was May 30 at 1:30 at Passport School at the Metzenbaum Center in Chesterland. ESC of Northeast Ohio Board members George Klepacz, Vice President; William Morrison, Jr.; Anthony Miceli; Dr. Bob Mengerink, Superintendent; and Jennifer Dodd, Assistant Superintendent were in attendance.
We will miss Aniya and Dae’Shon and their smiles and enthusiasm at school, and we wish them both all the best in their future endeavors.
East Cleveland Blooms: Mayor Morgan, Carrington Students Beautify MLK Civic Center on Earth Day CARRINGTON SCHOOL
The City of East Cleveland celebrated Earth Day with a vibrant community event themed “Blooms & Blossoming: Growing Together in East Cleveland.” Held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center, the day was filled with smiles, soil, and a shared commitment to honoring the planet and one another.
Mayor Sandra Morgan led the celebration, joining hands literally and symbolically with energetic students from Carrington School and children from neighborhoods across the city. Together, they planted beds of colorful flowers that now surround the civic center. Each bloom promises to care for the Earth and enhance the community’s natural beauty.
“Today, we are not just planting flowers. We are sowing the seeds of our future,” Morgan said as she knelt beside students in the flowerbeds. “One where East Cleveland continues to bloom, led by the hands and hearts of our youth.”
The event served as more than a gardening project. It was a joyful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together with purpose. Children, dressed in bright gardening gloves and guided by city police, firefighters, leaders and teachers who played a key role in guiding students through the planting boxes, learned about environmental
stewardship and the value of giving back. The sound of laughter filled the air as the grounds were transformed before everyone’s eyes.
Thanks to the generous support of Home Depot and Carrington School, which donated flowers and gardening supplies, the event was a success and a symbol of growing partnerships that continue to strengthen East Cleveland. Their involvement reflects a broader movement of collaboration and civic pride taking root throughout the city.
After the planting, students were treated to pizza and wings, generously provided by Papa John’s Pizza Restaurant in East Cleveland, adding a delicious end to an uplifting day of service and togetherness.
This Earth Day was not only about appreciating the beauty of the planet, but it was also about becoming part of that beauty. As Carrington students stood side by side with their mayor, they weren’t just celebrating Earth Day, they were helping shape the future of East Cleveland.
Garrett Morgan School of Engineering and Innovation Students Shine at National Charting the LifeCourse Showcase
During the summer of 2023, students from Garrett Morgan School of Engineering and Innovation, a high school in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, participated in Project STIR (Steps Toward Independence and Responsibility). Project STIR is a comprehensive three-day training developed by the Ohio Self-Determination Association. This program equips high school students with disabilities and their allies with the skills and confidence to become more self-determined. Thanks to the support of ODEW and SST3, Garrett Morgan School of Engineering and Innovation proudly became the first high school to participate in this initiative.
The students were invited to the National Charting the LifeCourse Showcase in Kansas City in April 2025 to deliver a presentation about their thriving Project STIR club. They shared personal journeys, challenges they have overcome, and the growth achieved through Project STIR, which resulted in a standing ovation from the conference attendees. Their courage and passion were evident, and their
story touched everyone in the room, making a remarkable impression on a national stage.
This milestone reflects not only the students’ individual perseverance and confidence but also the inclusive, empowering environment cultivated at the Garrett Morgan School of Engineering and Innovation. These young leaders have expanded support networks, developed self-advocacy skills, and proven they are ready to inspire others. This would not have been possible without district and school leadership, specifically that of Intervention Specialists Emily Herner and Assistant Principal Nancy Cosner.
We celebrate their success and look forward to continued growth and leadership from these students. Congratulations to the Garrett Morgan School of Engineering and Innovation students for their outstanding accomplishments! Learn more about Project STIR at: https://osdaohio.org/ project-stir/
Established in 2013, Ohio Substitute Teacher Services (OSTS), formally North Coast Shared Services Alliance, provides school districts in Ohio with quality substitute teachers. We are a collaboration of the Educational Service Centers of Northeast Ohio, Lorain County, and Medina County. Ohio Substitute Teacher Services expands into Southeast Ohio where our affiliate partners, the ESC of Columbiana County and the ESC of East Central Ohio, provide substitute services to school districts in their respective areas.
OSTS partners provide the following substitute management services:
• Recruitment and Screening
• Compliance
• Training
• Schedule Management
• State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) Management Services
• Payroll Services and Risk Management
Ohio Substitute Teacher Services represents approximately 53 school districts in 12 counties including Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, and Medina in Northeast Ohio and Belmont, Columbiana, Coshocton, Guernsey, Harrison, Jefferson, and Tuscarawas in Southern Ohio.
OUR MISSION IS SIMPLE: To place substitute teachers in classrooms who provide consistent delivery of quality instruction in a safe and productive learning environment during the absence of a regular classroom teacher.
Our Commitment
Ohio Substitute Teacher Services works to relieve your administrators’ stress of teacher absences and place the highest quality substitute teachers in your classrooms.
RECRUITMENT & SCREENING
• Take care of applications, interviews, and reference checks.
• Local and regional job fairs
• On-Site recruiting in districts
• Large talent bank of available substitutes
• Custom-designed marketing materials for districts
COMPLIANCE
• Ensure all federal, state, and local employment requirements are met.
TRAINING
• Conduct employment orientations, classroom instruction for substitutes who are not educators by degree, online safety compliance and regulatory courses.
SCHEDULING
• Schedule your substitutes, both day-to-day and long-term.
PAYROLL & RETIREMENT
• Manage payroll and retirement (STRS).
PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT
• Provide discipline and remediation if needed.
RISK MANAGEMENT/AFFORDABLE CARE ACT
Please contact us at info@ohiosts.org to speak to a representative and learn how we can help your district. Contact Us
• Manage unemployment and workers’ compensation claims.
• Manage Affordable Care Act.
Two videos have been produced to help in the OSTS marketing efforts to not only recruit more qualified substitute teachers, but also share with school districts who are not using OSTS services yet. These videos are on the OSTS website, are played at job fairs and educational conferences, and also have been shared with OSTS districts for their own marketing efforts.
Marketing Video to Recruit Substitute Teachers for our Member School Districts
Marketing Video to Recruit Districts who are not Members of OSTS
Aurora City Schools Launch Cybersecurity Career Program, Preparing Students for In-Demand
Tech Jobs
The Aurora City School District has officially launched a groundbreaking new course designed to train high school students in cybersecurity—a field now ranked among the top 20 fastest-growing careers in the U.S. The initiative marks a bold step toward preparing students for the demands of a rapidly evolving digital world and building a local talent pipeline for the booming tech industry. In partnership with Paradigm Cyber Ventures, the program offers students hands-on experience, internships, and access to industry-recognized certifications. Once completed, students are eligible for immediate job placement, with many entering the workforce directly after graduation.
In a News 5 Cleveland interview, senior Kavya Balreddygari said, “This course isn't just reading articles and taking tests; it's actually hands-on.” Balreddygari initially planned to study software development but shifted her focus to cybersecurity after seeing the demand and engagement the
course offers. “You have to solve real challenges and puzzles—just like in the real world.”
High school senior John Green, who plans to attend West Point, is already envisioning how this early exposure to cybersecurity could shape his future. “You get to help people and stop threats. It’s amazing to start at such a young age,” he said. Open to students from 10th grade and up, the course requires no prior computer knowledge. It not only teaches students cybersecurity fundamentals but also focuses on professionalism and workplace skills—empowering them to succeed whether they pursue college or enter the workforce immediately.
“You can be a sophomore and start making money by senior year,” said Green. “The sky’s the limit.” With this launch, Aurora City Schools aims to lead not only in education but in shaping Ohio’s cybersecurity workforce of tomorrow.
Belize Trip Provides Students Immersive Learning Experiences
A group of Brecksville-Broadview Heights Middle School students recently returned from a oncein-a-lifetime trip to the coastal Central American country of Belize. Organized by teacher Cathy Roderick, the trip took place during Spring Break from March 23-30 and provided an immersive, firsthand learning experience of the nation’s culture and breathtaking natural environment. During the trip, students explored the Cayo region of Belize and participated in hands-on learning activities and ongoing preservation efforts. A visit to the rainforest included a ziplining adventure through the canopy and a walk along jungle trails to learn about soil building processes and watershed quality assessment practices.
Students also took a guided tour of the ancient Mayan archaeological sites in the area and participated in protected areas research and compliance walk. A visit to a sustainable farm provided the opportunity to learn about climate-
smart farming practices, while planting seeds, pruning cacao trees, and harvesting fruit. Students also learned about Mayan culture and made homemade tortillas at a local village, observed marine life while snorkeling, and supported local reef cleanup and reforestation efforts. Overall, the trip provided an unforgettable opportunity for students to experience and expand their knowledge of global cultures and ecosystems.
Cleveland Heights High Students Are Champions of Rising Star Program’s First Ice Box Challenge
Cleveland Heights High School students Derrick Fair, Dametriana Blade, and Tyreece Tatum are the Tremco Rising Stars program’s first-ever national ice box champions.
This spring, the Cleveland Heights Rising Stars have been focused on the national ice box challenge, a scientific demonstration that visually highlights the benefits of using energy-efficient building practices.
Within the cohort, student groups competed against one another to design the most thermally strong and effective ice box. This allowed the students to collaborate, construct unique designs and troubleshoot problems. Not only was this an opportunity for friendly competition within their cohort, but the winning group’s ice box was also judged against the Boston, Brooklyn and Charlotte winners to determine the national champion.
“Derrick, Dametriana, and Tyreece’s ice box design was not only thermally strong and watertight but also the most efficient, with the least amount of melted ice,” said David Hutchinson, the director of the Rising Stars Program for Tremco CPG. “This extraordinary achievement reflects the Cleveland team’s dedication, innovation and collaborative spirit.”
The Rising Stars Program is designed to empower the next generation of underrepresented youth
aged 16-24 by providing opportunities for sustainable careers in construction. Led by industry veterans, the curriculum includes seminars and hands-on training in carpentry, project management, solar panel installation, roofing, construction management and architecture.
The program offerings are available to high school aged students, after-school, starting in the fall of 2024. This allows students to engage with the program without having to modify their existing course schedules.
Solon Senior Uses Art to Bring Hope to Foster Youth
Solon High School senior Lama Mohamed experienced firsthand the power of art in making a difference through a unique collaboration with Fostering Hope, a Solon-based nonprofit that enriches the lives of youth in foster care and residential treatment across Northeast Ohio.
As part of her Advanced Studio class, the project challenged students to explore how art can serve the community while simulating the experience of creating a commissioned piece. Art teacher Jennifer Thompson designed the assignment to give students practical experience working with a client.
“I ask students to contact a charity and find out what the organization needs, rather than telling them what they can offer and sell for money,” Ms.
Thompson said. “The goal is for students to see how art can make a difference and learn how to approach a project with the client’s goals in mind.” Fostering Hope asked Lama to create a positive, abstract painting to hang in their main office. In April, she presented her completed work to the organization’s leadership team and board of directors.
During the presentation, Lama shared why she chose to work with Fostering Hope. “I love working with kids and helping them,” she said. “I want to foster a child when I grow up, so this was a really good choice.”
Lama said she appreciated the creative freedom the organization gave her for the project. Her painting, which features imagery of clouds and flowers, symbolizes a child's mind filled with happiness and hope. Lama selected purple as the dominant color because it brings her joy. In her presentation, Lama explained, “I wanted to show that the charity is the one that brings all this hope into the children’s lives.”
MagicSchool Expands to Students in May
by Jeremy Hunter, Director of Educational Technology
As Beachwood City Schools continues to advance its educational initiatives, the district is excited to announce the final steps in the implementation of MagicSchool. This innovative, AI-powered platform is specifically designed to support educators and enhance student learning.
A soft launch for students began on May 1. While teachers have been piloting MagicSchool since September, this will mark the first time students can officially engage with the platform in a structured way. Teachers have been utilizing MagicSchool to support classroom activities, streamline lesson planning, and create interactive experiences. This soft launch allows for feedback and assessment of the platform’s effectiveness in enhancing student learning.
An important aspect of MagicSchool is MagicSchool for Students (MagicStudent), which allows teachers to coordinate and supervise student activities effectively. This feature promotes responsible AI experiences and builds AI literacy among students. Through personalized dashboards and real-time feedback, students can engage with content tailored to their learning needs, ensuring they receive the support necessary for their development. The platform includes moderation layers to decline certain requests based on age and appropriateness for a school setting, ensuring a safe learning environment.
As teacher Mr. Holman noted, “It’s essential for our district to educate students about AI and its ethical use, especially as the world continues to evolve.” He highlighted how MagicSchool enables
the creation of chatbots that can communicate in multiple languages, serving as a valuable resource for English learners. These chatbots can respond in students' native languages, allowing them to compare and learn new vocabulary effectively.
Throughout the year, Beachwood has conducted multiple training sessions for educators to ensure they are well-equipped to utilize MagicSchool effectively. These professional development opportunities focus on enhancing teachers' abilities to create engaging lessons and manage administrative tasks efficiently.
By the end of the school year, all K-12 teachers across the district will have the opportunity to implement MagicSchool in their classrooms. Teachers will have the autonomy to decide how best to use the platform based on their students' developmental levels and learning needs. This approach guarantees that MagicSchool is a valuable resource tailored to enhance student learning outcomes.
As the district moves forward with the soft launch of MagicSchool, they are committed to ensuring that this integration is thoughtful and effective.
Partnership with Cleveland Food Bank Allows District to Distribute Produce to Families
The Willoughby-Eastlake City Schools has a special partnership with the Cleveland Food Bank to operate a free, monthly produce distribution for the community.
Once a month, any community member may visit the drive up produce market and take home a box for their family. The district has distributed up to 12,000 pounds of food per month. The market opens at 10 a.m. and food is distributed while it lasts or until 12 p.m. If any food remains, it is provided to the Salvation Army in Painesville.
The district's sponsors/community partners include Heinen's, Laketran, and the United Way of Lake County. Numerous volunteers make this possible each month.
Northeast Ohio Educators Discuss Learning Loss Recovery on the Sound of Ideas on Ideastream Public Media
Approximately five years after the Covid-19 lockdown educators across Northeast Ohio are feeling the affects of the pandemic. In this episode of "Sound of Ideas" podcast on Ideastream Public Media, reporter Jenny Hamel discusses with Warrensville Heights Superintendent Jolly and the head of the teachers union for CMSD, as well as other educators how students, teachers,
and districts have been academically affected and what has been done to provide resources for these students.
Superintendent Jolly provided insightful comments on how Warrensville has managed distractions via their use of Yondr pouches, and how students need to be set up for success in school in order to productive citizens and community members post graduation.
Listen to the full podcast of this amazing and insightful discussion here
