Home of THE ROCKETS! MISSION MONITOR
A Quarterly Newsletter from Streetsboro City Schools
FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT’S DESK
Dear Streetsboro Community,
I am thrilled to welcome you to the very first edition of Mission Monitor, our quarterly school update. This new initiative aims to keep everyone informed and engaged with the latest happenings, achievements, and upcoming events within our school community.
I have had the pleasure of living and working in Streetsboro for the past 30 years. As both an educator and a parent, I know, first hand, all that our community has to offer; and Streetsboro City Schools are an integral part of this community.
At the beginning of the academic year, I shared my vision with our parents. It is important to reiterate the district’s commitment to three key focus areas that will guide our efforts and decisions today and into the future:
1. Student-First Decision Making: We will make decisions that prioritize the best interests of our students. Every choice we make, from classroom activities to policy updates, is centered around enhancing student growth, learning, and well-being. This focus includes continuously reviewing and updating our safety protocols to provide a secure and supportive environment for all students and staff.
2. Effective Communication: We believe in maintaining open, honest, and timely communication with our families. Your insights and feedback are invaluable, and we encourage you to stay connected with us through our regular updates, meetings, and school events.
3. Fiscal Responsibility: We are dedicated to managing our resources wisely to maximize the benefits for our students and the community. We are committed to using our resources efficiently and effectively to support our educational programs and initiatives.
Our goal is to foster a greater sense of connection and collaboration among all members of our community and this newsletter is one avenue to keep Streetsboro City residents and business partners informed. Through the upcoming months look for the following:
● Highlights of recent accomplishments and milestones
● Insights into upcoming projects and initiatives
● Spotlights on our students, staff, and school programs
● Important dates and reminders
Thank you for your continued support and dedication. I am excited to embark on this journey together and look forward to keeping you informed and inspired throughout the year.
Cindy Deevers Superintendent
STREETSBORO CELEBRATES NEW STAFF AND FAMILIAR FACES IN NEW ROLES FOR 2024-25 SCHOOL YEAR
Streetsboro City School District welcomes new staff members and congratulates existing employees on new roles for the 2024-25 school year. These changes support our commitment to educational excellence and student success.
We are grateful to those who have stepped into new positions, bringing their expertise and enthusiasm to fresh challenges within our district.
Please join us in congratulating the following individuals on their new roles:
Billy Coverdale, Elementary School Cafe Worker
Deb Grant, Director of Student Services
Brett McCann, Director of Teaching & Learning
Missy Oyer, Assistant Principal SES
Jason Starcher, Level IV Custodian
Dan Stitzel, Technology Director
Lee Weppler, Middle School Principal
Jen Wolf, Student Services Coordinator
We are also pleased to welcome several new highly qualified professionals to our district. The following new staff members joined Streetsboro City Schools at the beginning of the academic year:
Jacqueline Adams, 4th Grade MA/SC
Shannon Alanskas, Tech Teacher LTS
Dylan Brainard, Level III Custodian SHS
Shirley Clarke, Lunch/Recess Aide
Shirley Clarke, Bus Driver
Matthew Eddins, 6th Grade Math Teacher
Maddie Fetzer, Speech Language Pathologist
Patrick Griffis, High School Principal
Julia Grimm, Intervention Specialist SES
Kennedy Hahn, Middle School Art Teacher
Shannon Kee, Assistant Middle School Principal
Briana Lowdermilk, Middle School ELA Teacher
Ali Madden, Aide
Alissa Mujanovic, Vocal Teacher
Courtney Nicotera (Tuma), Bus Driver
Jeff Papesh, Assistant High School Principal
Tara Pyles, Van Driver
Steven Sloane, Bus Driver
Rebecca Smith, SLP
Erin Sweeney, Kindergarten Long Term Sub
Kelsey Verhoff, Social Studies Teacher
Anthony Starkey, Level III Custodian SES
STREETSBORO HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER RYAN SPENCE
NAMED 2024 OHIO COUNCIL OF TEACHERS OF MATHEMATICS TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Ryan Spence, the Advanced Placement Statistics and Honors Algebra 2 teacher at Streetsboro High School, has been recognized with the 2024 Buck Martin Award from the Ohio Council of Teachers of Mathematics (OCTM). The Buck Martin Award is given annually to the OCTM High School Teacher of the Year for the State of Ohio. Ryan is in his 17th year of teaching at Streetsboro High School.
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“Since he has arrived at Streetsboro City Schools, Mr. Spence has continually demonstrated a passion for mathematics instruction and teaching,” said Superintendent Cindy Deevers, Streetsboro City Schools.
“He genuinely cares for his students and works to ensure that his lessons help impart his love of learning to them. As this award shows, Mr. Spence stands out across the state as one of the best and we are proud that he is a Rocket.”
“Since he has arrived at Streetsboro City Schools, Mr. Spence has continually demonstrated a passion for mathematics instruction and teaching. He genuinely cares for his students and works to ensure that his lessons help impart his love of learning to them.”
- Cindy Deevers, Superintendent
STREETSBORO CITY SCHOOLS SHOWS SIGNIFICANT GROWTH ON 2023-24 ODE REPORT CARD
The Streetsboro City Schools received its report card rating in mid-September, and we are proud to once again be recognized by the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce (ODEW) as a “4.5 Star” district, the highest rating in the district’s history (each component is rated out of 5 stars). The highlights of the report card feature 5 Star ratings in the categories of Progress & Gap Closing. Both of these components weigh heavily the “Value Added,” or the growth of student learning from year to year.
Index score. In order to calculate a district’s PI score, schools and districts receive points on the index for every student who takes a test. The higher the performance level on the state tests, the more points awarded toward the index score. The district increased its Performance Index from a score of 81.8 to a score of 85.2 That is a significant improvement in one year’s worth of time, as the state consistently reports that score improvements of 3+ points are considered exceptional.
Value Added is a measure created by the state that helps us determine if students are making one year’s worth of growth. The idea behind Value Added is that no matter where a student starts the year, we work to ensure that they continue to grow academically. According to the state of Ohio, schools and districts with a 5 Star Rating in Progress show “Significant evidence that the school exceeded student growth expectations by a larger magnitude.” We are extremely proud of the fact that all schools eligible for stars in the Progress category earned at least 4 stars.
Similarly, the Gap Closing category focuses on specific subgroups of students. Each subgroup is assigned by the state a target goal for proficiency and achievement. The 5 Star rating in Gap Closing shows that no matter the demographics of our students, we are working hard to ensure that all students can learn at high levels. Every school in the district at least met state standards in this category, and the district overall “significantly exceeded state standards in closing educational gaps.”
The district met state standards in the other three categories measured by the state of Ohio: Achievement, Graduation, and Early Literacy.
The district, while remaining at 3 Stars, significantly increased in achievement. When looking at the district’s Performance
TREASURER UPDATE
Streetsboro City Schools has done well financially since the original passing of the 9 mil levy, as the District has been able to avoid deficit spending since fiscal year 2020. However, with inflation, our costs continue to increase, while our revenues stay roughly the same each year.
Public School Districts in the State of Ohio have two revenue sources - the State Budget, and Local Taxes. The State approves their budget bi-annually, which then determines what each public school district will receive. Districts can try to pass property tax levies or income tax levies to increase revenues.
The district received a 3 Star in Graduation, with a graduation rate of 90.5% for the Class of 2023. It is important to note that the Graduation rating is a year behind, as it calculates % of students who graduated in four years, and also in five years. It is important to note that the graduation rate from SHS for the Class of 2024 was 96.3%, so this rating will increase in the upcoming year.
The district increased its Early Literacy rating to 3 Stars for the 2023-24 School Year (up from two stars the previous two years). The highlights of the Early Literacy component include a 100% promotion of 3rd grade students to 4th grade by way of the Third Grade Reading Guarantee, as well as a significant increase in “Improving Literacy,” which is a measure of how many students move to being considered “on track” for their grade level.
Throughout all of these components, it is clear that the Streetsboro City Schools is dedicated to the learning of all students, and is working to “move students to the right,” a term the district uses that refers to continuing the growth of students. The ODEW Report Card is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our staff to helping our students become the best version of themselves, and we are proud of the work that has been done over the past year, and continue to strive to better ourselves for the 2024-25 school year and beyond.
We have two levies up for renewal this November. These levies bring no increase to property tax, and will provide the district no new money. One levy was originally passed in 2005, and the other 2010. Both have been renewed multiple times, and are still bringing in the same amount of money as when they were passed. Combined, these levies bring in about $3,500,000 per taxable year which is used for student achievement, operational salaries and benefits, chromebooks and curriculum.
Brian Haines Treasurer
STREETSBORO CITY SCHOOLS ENHANCES SAFETY WITH SECOND SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER
In a move to bolster school safety and strengthen community ties, Streetsboro City Schools welcomed a second School Resource Officer (SRO) at the beginning of the 2024-25 academic year. Officer Dan Shetler joins the district’s existing SRO, Kyle French, as part of an expanded safety initiative.
The addition of Officer Shetler stems from a collaborative five-year agreement between the City of Streetsboro and the school district. This partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to student safety, with the city fully funding the new position for the first year. The financial responsibility will gradually shift to the district in years two, three, four, and five.
Officer Shetler brings eight years of full-time law enforcement experience to his new role. Prior to joining Streetsboro, he served as a K9 Officer with the Canal Fulton Police Department, where he acted as a substitute SRO at Northwest Schools and taught a Street Law class to high school students.
Shelter’s responsibilities will include circulating through all schools in the district, with a primary focus on the main campus buildings. He will also assist Officer French at the high school as needed.
Shetler emphasized his commitment to maintaining an active presence throughout the school day, assisting office staff with security, and fostering positive relationships within the school
community. He aims to be present during large gatherings such as lunch and recess periods.
Looking ahead, Officer Shetler aims to implement new safety initiatives, including increased interaction with students and staff and is excited to collaborate with other staff members to help maintain a safe environment and educate students on safety practices.
Parents and community members can support the SROs’ work by remaining vigilant and reporting any concerns. For non-emergency situations that don’t require 911 or a police report, both Officer Shetler and Officer French can be contacted directly via email or phone.
The addition of a second SRO demonstrates Streetsboro City Schools’ dedication to providing a safe and positive learning environment for all students. The district is grateful for the City of Streetsboro’s commitment to safety in the schools and the community.
STREETSBORO ELEMENTARY TEACHERS PARTICIPATE IN PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITIES
Streetsboro Elementary School (SES) teachers are making the most of their students’ lunch and recess periods by engaging in focused professional development activities. The school has implemented Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), providing educators with structured time to collaborate and improve their teaching strategies. During these PLC sessions, teachers dive deep into the math and reading standards they are responsible for teaching. This dedicated time allows them to review current student data, compare the information to the rigor of the standard, and
to plan instructional next steps to help all SES students grow to their potential.
This behind-thescenes work demonstrates the ongoing commitment of SES teachers to meet the diverse needs of their student body. By utilizing this time effectively, educators are able to refine their teaching methods and ensure continued academic growth.
The implementation of PLCs at Streetsboro Elementary School showcases the school’s dedication to continuous improvement and student success.
STREETSBORO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FOSTERS STUDENT LEADERSHIP
Parents have asked, “What happens to my kid once they get off the bus or into the building? How do they know where to go and what to do?” Not only do the Streetsboro Elementary School (SES) teachers teach all of the daily routines of school, they work hard to foster leadership in the older students at SES.
Behind the scenes, volunteer students called PAX Leaders have been stepping up to mentor the younger SES students and help them find their way. These leaders help them collect their breakfast, find their classrooms, answer questions, and
also give hugs and kind words of encouragement to students who are still adjusting to a day of learning away from their families.
Streetsboro is extremely proud of the students and are happy to help them practice kindness, responsibility, and compassion for others.
STREETSBORO PTA HOSTS 13TH ANNUAL FAMILY TAILGATE EVENT
The Streetsboro Community Parent Teacher Association (PTA) continues to make a significant impact on the district through its commitment to student advocacy and community engagement. This dedication was on full display at their recent 13th annual tailgate event on August 23.
Led by President Nicole Coy and her dedicated board of volunteers, the PTA focuses on raising funds to enhance the educational experience for all students in the district. “Our main mission with PTA is to advocate for our children,” said Coy. “We’re here to raise funds so that we can put them back into our district, essentially.”
The tailgate event exemplified this mission, featuring a diverse array of activities and offerings. Community partners, including Parks and Recreation, were present to engage with families. Several school sports teams, such as ladies golf and cross country, participated in the festivities. Attendees had the opportunity to pick up their yearbooks and purchase new spirit wear for the upcoming school year. The event also offered a variety of food options, with vendors selling pizza and lattes to those looking for snacks before the football game. Adding to the excitement, the PTA organized a raffle with gift baskets, encouraging attendees to purchase tickets for a chance to win.
The PTA’s efforts aim to provide additional resources for classrooms and create positive daily experiences for students and teachers alike, while maintaining a strong relationship with school administrators.
“Anytime I call and need something, they’re there to help us out,” said Streetsboro City Schools Chief Business Officer C.J. Scarcipino.
The tailgate served as an excellent example of the PTA’s commitment to fostering connections between parents, community partners, and families while supporting the district’s needs. It demonstrated how the organization goes beyond simply raising funds, actively creating opportunities for community building and engagement.
As the PTA continues its mission, they encourage all community members to join and participate in their efforts to enhance the educational experience for Streetsboro students. Membership is available through their website, and is renewed annually for each academic year.
“We’d love to have you join us,” Coy emphasized, extending an invitation to all Streetsboro families. “We’re all volunteers, but we’re here to support you and your family and your students.”
Two Streetsboro Elementary School (SES) students, Joseph and Fiona Pandelli, won a ride to school, courtesy of the Streetsboro Fire Department from the annual PTA Tailgate Raffle.
SCAN THE QR CODE ABOVE TO VISIT THE PTA WEBSITE
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HENRY DEFER INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL STUDENTS ON TRACK FOR A GREAT SCHOOL YEAR
As the autumn leaves are falling, Henry Defer Intermediate School (HDI) is in full swing, celebrating the smooth start they had for the new academic year. The halls are bustling with energy as students, both returning and new, are working hard and making friends.
The school’s fourth-grade students have demonstrated remarkable adaptability in their transition to HDI’s new learning environment. The dedicated teachers at HDI have played a crucial role in this successful acclimation, ensuring that students feel comfortable and confident in their new surroundings.
The school recently completed its fall Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessments in Reading and Math. These assessments provide valuable insights into each student’s strengths and areas for improvement, which are used to tailor instruction through the innovative What I Need (WIN) program. This daily session offers targeted support or challenges based on individual student needs.
As the school year progresses, Henry Defer continues to focus on individualized learning and growth. The positive start to the year sets the stage for exciting developments and achievements as we begin to look forward to the winter months.
MIDDLE SCHOOL KICKS OFF NEW YEAR WITH FRESH FACES, STRONG ACADEMIC FOCUS, AND ATHLETIC TRIUMPHS
Streetsboro Middle School (SMS) has begun the 2024-25 academic year with a flurry of activity, welcoming new staff members, implementing academic initiatives, and celebrating early athletic successes.
The school has added several new educators to its roster, including Assistant Principal Shannon Kee, sixth grade English language arts teacher Briana Lowdermilk, math teacher Matt Eddins, and art teacher Kennedy Hahn. These new additions are already bringing fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the school community.
The year began with the school’s WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) program, an orientation initiative led by eighth-grade students under the guidance of Katie Spence. The program aims to ease the transition for incoming sixth graders, fostering a welcoming environment from day one.
On the academic front, SMS has already conducted benchmark testing to assess individual student needs. This data will inform instructional strategies, particularly during the school’s Academic Support Period, ensuring targeted support for each student’s growth.
Extracurricular activities are also ramping up, with 12 different clubs and organizations already keeping busy. These programs offer students opportunities to explore their interests, develop new friendships, and engage in fun activities outside the classroom.
The school’s fall sports teams have hit the ground running and are already showing great success early on!
In a notable display of character, 8th grader Akelius Gates was recognized for his heroic actions over the summer. Gates performed life-saving CPR on another child at a swimming pool, embodying the values of courage and community service that SMS aims to instill in all its students.
The school also expresses gratitude to local businesses Dairy Queen and Raising Cane’s for their donations to the school’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) initiative.
As the new academic year continues to unfold, SMS is poised for a year of growth, learning, and community engagement, building on its strong start in academics, athletics, and character development.
FRESHMAN FESTIVAL BRINGS STUDENTS TOGETHER FOR DAY OF ACTIVITIES
Freshmen Festival brought ninth graders and upperclassmen together for a day of interactive activities, kicking off the school year and building community. After a breakfast served by the teachers, and an energizing opening assembly, they were given time in small groups with their junior and senior Link Crew Leaders to participate in activities that encouraged getting to know each other better and working together to solve problems.
Building trust and getting to know the ninth graders was at the forefront of the Freshmen Festival, starting with the Link
Leaders all the way up to the teachers. The day continued with a lively tour of the building led by each of their Link Leaders, a closing assembly and a pizza lunch enjoyed together in their small groups. The afternoon was to further help the ninth graders get comfortable, as they followed their bell schedule from class to class and met all of their teachers. Many of the ninth graders praised the event’s success, while the Link Leaders expressed satisfaction in their mentorship roles.
STREETSBORO HIGH SCHOOL ACHIEVES RECORD AP PARTICIPATION AND SUCCESS IN 2023-24
The 2023-24 school year saw Streetsboro High School’s (SHS) largest Advanced Placement (AP) Program participation with 145 students taking 231 exams over 9 courses. This participation increase was due to the district’s continuous work of broadening the invitation to include more students in AP courses.
Research shows that students who participate in one to two AP classes while in high school have significantly higher increases in GPAs while in college compared to students who have not taken an AP course.
Streetsboro High School is a leader in AP expansion and continually works to prepare students for rigorous coursework. 87% of students scored a 3 or better on their AP exams, the highest Streetsboro High School has ever seen. This is 20% higher than the 2022-23 school year.
Jeff Rainer has 60% of AP students in his AP US History and AP Government & Politics classes. His students scored a passage
44 AP SCHOLARS
87% 231 EXAMS TAKEN OF STREETSBORO STUDENTS SCORED A 3 +
rate of 93.6% and 92.1%, respectively.
AP Pre Calculus is a first year course for the College Board, and Helen DeLorenzo’s students scored a passage rate of 96.3%.
SHS increased its AP offerings for 2024-25 by reintroducing AP Calculus, expanding its AP roster to 10 courses.
Lastly, 44 Streetsboro High School students were recognized as AP Scholars for the 2023-24 school year, the most in school history. In order to qualify as an AP Scholar, students must score a “3” (considered a passing score by College Board) on three or more AP exams. Earning a score of a 3 or better on an AP exam qualifies students for college credit at most colleges and universities across the country. Comparatively, the number of AP Scholars just four years ago was 18; to more than double that number in only four years is testament to the rigor and effort of our students and staff K-12.
145 STUDENTS PARTICIPATED
MISSION MONITOR
A Publication of Streetsboro City Schools
Board of Education
Kristin Bedford – President
Tracy Campbell – Vice President
Tonia Epple
Sara Scott
Kelly Rich
Cindy Deevers
Superintendent
Brian Haines
Treasurer
C.J. Scarcipino
Chief Business Officer
Dan Stitzel
Director of Technology
Brett McCann
Director of Teaching & Learning
Dr. Deb Grant
Director of Student Services
Jen Wolf
Student Services Coordinator
Randy Tevepaugh
Athletic Director
9000 Kirby Lane Streetsboro, OH 44241 330-626-4900 (Main)
Streetsboro City School District
StreetsboroSD
SHS Rockets Broadcasting
STREETSBORO SCHOOLS INTRODUCE NEW MASCOT HUBIE
There’s a new face in town, and he’s tall, blue, and full of school spirit! Say hello to Hubie, Streetsboro City Schools’ lovable new mascot.
Chosen by students and staff last year through a district-wide vote, Hubie has been making waves and making friends across our schools. He can be spotted zooming from classroom to classroom, showing support for our teams, and sparking excitement wherever he goes. Hubie likes to keep busy and has helped staff with various tasks in between cheering on his fellow rockets!
Haven’t met Hubie yet? Don’t worry! Keep your eyes peeled at upcoming events – you might just catch a glimpse of our newest Rocket in action!
UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS
11/14/24 Board of Education Meeting
11/21/24 HS Winter Choir Concert
11/25/24 MS Winter Choir Concert
11/27/24-11/29/24 Thanksgiving Break
12/2/24 NO School for Students (Staff Collaboration Day)
12/7/24 First Snow Concert (TransSiberian Orchestra Tribute Band)
12/12/24 Board of Education Meeting
12/16/24 Henry Defer Choir Concert 12/20/24 NO School for Students (Teacher Records Day) 12/23/24-1/3/25 Winter Break- NO School 1/10/25 2nd Marking Period Report Cards Go Home 1/15/25 3rd Grade Music Show 1/20/25 MLK Day- NO School 1/22/25 Henry Defer Beginning Band Concert