6393 Oak Tree Blvd.
Independence, OH 44131
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Robert A. Mengerink Superintendent
Jennifer Dodd Assistant Superintendent
Steve Rogaski Director of Pupil Services
Andrew Pizzulo 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
By Dr. Bob Mengerink, Superintendent
As the 2025–2026 school year gets underway, I want to take a moment to recognize the outstanding work happening across our region. Every fall brings the energy of a new beginning—a chance to build on what we’ve learned, reconnect with our purpose, and recommit to the students and families we serve. This year is no different, and once again, I’m inspired by the dedication, creativity, and compassion of the educators, administrators, and partners who make learning come alive in our schools.
In this issue of The ESC Connection, you’ll find stories that highlight what’s possible when we work together. From expanding access to early learning and improving student mental health to reimagining career pathways and deepening community partnerships, the efforts shared here represent just a fraction of the momentum we’re seeing across Northeast Ohio. These initiatives reflect a shared belief that education is about far more than academics—it’s about preparing students to thrive in every aspect of their lives.
At the ESC of Northeast Ohio, we are proud to walk alongside our districts, schools, and partners as collaborators, problem-solvers, and champions of innovation. We’re here to listen, respond, and provide support in ways that meet your unique needs and goals.
Thank you for the energy and heart you bring to your work each day. It is an honor to serve each and every one of you. Here’s to a school year filled with meaningful growth, fresh ideas, and the collective impact that comes from doing this work—together.
Warmly,
Bob Mengerink, Superintendent
Cover photo: To launch the new school year, Revere Local Schools hosted The Every Student Thrives In-House Professional Development Conference–a full day dedicated to supporting every student’s success. The ESC of Northeast Ohio's Teaching and Learning Consultants shared their expertise in a number of sessions. Read the full story on pages 8-9.
The ESC of Northeast Ohio is excited to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website. The updated site, www.escneo.org, offers a cleaner look and a more user-friendly experience, making it easier than ever to access the information you need.
Highlights include a simplified registration portal and a streamlined navigation menu that places departments, programs, and services prominently at the top of the homepage. These improvements are designed to help educators, families, and community partners quickly find and register for opportunities that support teaching, learning, and student success.
We invite you to explore the new site and discover all that the ESC of Northeast Ohio has to offer.
The Educational Service Center (ESC) of Northeast Ohio has appointed Andrew Pizzulo as its new treasurer, succeeding Bruce Basalla, who retired after years of dedicated service to the organization.
Pizzulo brings more than a decade of experience in school finance and auditing to his new role. Since 2022, he has served as financial operations coordinator for the ESC’s Shared Services Alliance, where he oversaw financial consulting and forecasting for multiple school districts across the region. He also served as treasurer of record for several districts, managing budgets, board relations, and day-today fiscal operations.
Prior to joining the ESC, Pizzulo worked for Akron Public Schools as a financial operations coordinator and accountant, and for the Ohio Auditor of State as an assistant auditor. His background includes leading budget planning, managing ESSER funds, and providing training and mentorship to treasurers statewide.
“Andrew has been an integral part of our Shared Services team, and his leadership, expertise, and commitment to collaboration make him an excellent choice for Treasurer,” said Dr. Bob Mengerink, superintendent, ESC of Northeast Ohio. "We look forward to his continued contributions as he steps into this new role.”
Pizzulo is a licensed Ohio school treasurer and a professional member of the Ohio Association of School Business Officials (OASBO), where he serves on the Legislative and Education Finance committees. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting from Youngstown State University.
“I’m honored to continue serving the ESC and our member districts in this capacity,” said Pizzulo. “I look forward to supporting our schools with sound financial leadership and innovative solutions that help advance education in Northeast Ohio.”
On October 6, the ESC of Northeast Ohio’s Strengthening the Public School Promise Conference brought together educators, administrators, and community leaders from across the region—all focused on reimagining and reaffirming the promise of public education.
From thought-provoking discussions to practical takeaways, participants explored how to build stronger connections, foster belonging, and elevate the public school experience for every student.
A special thank-you to John DiJulius for an energizing keynote on creating a true “Belonging Experience”—and to everyone who joined us to share ideas, passion, and purpose.
Together, we’re strengthening the promise of public schools.
The Teaching and Learning team is excited to announce a new professional learning series designed to support educators in a critical area of student (and adult!) learning: executive skills.
Assess and Teach Executive Skills is a five-part series running from September through February. We will provide educators with tools and strategies to understand, assess, and teach these skills for ALL students.
Executive skills are the mental processes that enable us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks successfully. Based on the work of Peg Dawson and Richard Guare, our series highlights the foundational and advanced aspects of these skills from a developmental perspective. For example, did you know many of these skills take 25 years or longer to mature? Our learning goals focus on building awareness of what executive skills are, how to assess them, and practical ways to teach them to all learners–including adults! We’ll also address how to intervene and individualize supports when executive skill challenges become barriers to learning.
We developed this series in response to observations in and feedback from schools across our region. Educators are noticing elevated needs related to attention, organization, flexibility, and emotional regulation in their classrooms. At the Tier 1 level, teachers are requesting strategies for integrating executive skill development into daily instruction. At the same time, work in special education highlights the importance of clarity when evaluating these skills and addressing them through IEPs. Assess and Teach Executive Skills is designed to meet both of these needs.
Across the five sessions in the series, educators will engage in practical learning they can transfer to their classrooms and student support teams. Each session builds on the last, creating a comprehensive understanding of how executive skills develop, how to recognize strengths and areas of growth, and how to teach these skills in ways that empower students to become more independent learners.
We look forward to partnering with educators through this series. The need for professional learning in executive skills is clear, and we are eager to provide support in this important area for student growth and success.
On September 26, 50 early-career teachers from across Northeast Ohio gathered at the ESC of Northeast Ohio for the launch of the second Empowering Early Educators cohort. This yearlong professional learning series is designed to support teachers in their first five years of the profession by equipping them with the strategies, confidence, and community needed to thrive in the classroom and beyond.
Facilitated by Daniela Stuckey, Kristi Sacha, and Maureen Wolfe, the series is more than a set of workshops. It is a collaborative, dynamic network that fosters both professional and personal growth. Throughout the sessions, educators engage in interactive learning, reflection, and discussion with colleagues who share similar experiences, challenges, and aspirations.
Built around the most current research on trajectory changing schools (The Opportunity Makers), the opening session set the stage for a year focused on cultivating belonging, coherence, and consistency—themes that run through every aspect of the series. Teachers explored strategies for building strong student relationships, establishing routines and expectations, and creating learning environments where all students feel connected and supported. Time was also dedicated to developing resilience and a growth mindset, helping participants build confidence as they navigate the demands of their first years. Future sessions will dive deeper into topics such as classroom management, student engagement, evidence-based instructional practices, and socialemotional learning through CASEL’s signature practices. Participants will also gain practical guidance on professional responsibilities like the Ohio Teacher Evaluation System (OTES) and
contributing to a positive school culture.
A hallmark of the network is the sense of community it builds. By bringing together teachers from diverse districts and grade levels, the series provides a supportive space where educators can celebrate successes, troubleshoot challenges, and learn from one another. Empowering Early Educators is about giving new teachers both the tools and the confidence to create classrooms where students and teachers can thrive. By centering resilience, relationships, and evidencebased practices—and weaving in the research on belonging, coherence, and consistency—we are investing in the long-term success of both educators and the students they serve.
With four additional sessions scheduled throughout the school year, participants will continue to strengthen their skills, reflect on their practice, and grow as lead learners in their classrooms. This second cohort of Empowering Early Educators demonstrates the ESC of Northeast Ohio's ongoing commitment to supporting teachers at the most pivotal stage of their careers and; in turn, ensuring student success.
To launch the new school year, Revere Local Schools hosted The Every Student Thrives InHouse Professional Development Conference—a full day dedicated to growth, collaboration, and supporting every student’s success.
Throughout the 2024–2025 school year, the District Leadership Team focused on identifying a unifying goal to serve as a lighthouse for the district’s collective efforts. After reviewing data and instructional practices, one guiding question emerged: What intentional instructional strategies are we using to help every student grow? From this important work, the idea for The Every Student Thrives Conference was born.
On August 22, following the Convocation, Revere staff gathered at Revere High School for a day of learning, inspiration, and collaboration. The conference offered four time blocks with ten session options each, allowing staff to “choose their own adventure” based on their interests and professional goals.
Among the many Revere teachers presenting to their peers, staff from the Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio also shared their expertise. Maureen Wolfe and Alexis Volk led
sessions on Experiencing a Thinking Task in the Math Classroom, Tools for Talk: Strategies to Deepen Math Discourse, and Creating Thinking Tasks in Math. Mindy Geschke presented Creating with the Assessment Authoring Tool, Data in Action: Planning Common Assessments, and Using Test Blueprints to Conduct an Assessment Audit. Also representing the ESC of Northeast Ohio was Amy Harker, Revere’s Gifted Coordinator, who led sessions on Personalized Learning Unpacked and Profiles with a Purpose
Adding to the day’s spirit of connection, staff came together for a cookout-themed luncheon—a perfect opportunity to relax, reflect, and celebrate being part of the Revere family. Each participant received a conference t-shirt, with the color of the shirt representing their building, and staff were also offered opportunities to earn graduate credit.
The conference was thoughtfully led by Marcia Roach, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and John Schinker, Director of Technology. We are deeply grateful for their leadership, careful planning, and vision in bringing this event to life. Their efforts set a positive tone for the year ahead—one centered on ensuring that every student thrives.
On October 7, the ESC of Northeast Ohio hosted From Challenges to Chances: McKinney-Vento Training, a powerful session focused on supporting students experiencing homelessness. The training featured collaboration from A Place 4 Me, ODEW’s Trish Barnett, Maleeka Bussey from South Euclid Lyndhurst Schools, and Keith Langford from Shaker Heights, alongside Denise Pietrzak, ESC’s McKinney-Vento Liaison.
The engaging session fostered learning, sharing, and renewed commitment to ensuring educational stability and success for vulnerable students.
An Awareness Toolkit is available which offers practical resources and ideas for raising understanding and support within schools and communities.
On September 9, Jeremy Varner, Deputy Director of the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce, addressed educators, business leaders, and community members on the topic of Strengthening Career Development in the Northeast Ohio Workforce. He discussed the importance of careerconnected learning at a time when students have limited access to career-technical education (CTE), 60% of high school graduates are not earning associate or four-year degrees, and Ohio is in need of qualified technicians to fill hundreds of job openings. In particular, data show that Northeast Ohio has an acute shortage of students currently engaged in CTE.
With development of new regional Career Pathway Support Networks, the state intends to develop strong education-workforce systems to support CTE beginning at the middle school level. With 12.5 percent of youth ages 18–24 lacking a
high school diploma, it is imperative to engage students’ interests and aptitudes early and provide engaging hands-on applications of learning. Middle school students will engage initially with broad exposure to careers and general skills, such as through Junior Achievement, that then will narrow during high school as students focus on specific skill sets and technical training in CTE areas leading to shadowing, internships, work-based learning, pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships, industry-recognized credentials, and dual credit opportunities. The Career Pathway Support Network model calls for mentoring and counseling services for students, as well as professional development to increase the number of CTE educators and administrators. Deputy Varner highlighted flexibility and innovation as a positive response to the educational and workforce challenges in Northeast Ohio.
On October 3, members of the NEO Business Advisory Council (BAC) Network and the Greater Cleveland School Superintendents’ Association (GCSSA) gathered at the ESC of Northeast Ohio to learn about Unleashing Passion, Purpose, and Performance in Younger Generations. Presenter Mark C. Perna shared insights on how to inspire students to unleash their potential. He said that students often are painted in a negative light, but, in fact, they have incredible potential to change the world. He suggested to the audience, “Give young people academic knowledge, technical competency, and professional skills—and you’ll give them the single most important competitive advantage in today’s new economy.” Perna also shared his experiences and message with 65
eighth-graders from GEAR UP First Ring Districts who are focused on college and career readiness. His motivational message challenged them to consider all of their experiences—academic, social, volunteer, work-related—as opportunities to develop their competitive advantage using their academic, technical, and professional skills to experience current success as well as readiness for future careers.
Rhonda Reid, State Support Team Consultant, represented our organization at the All-City Back to School Festival held on Saturday, August 9, from 9 a.m. to noon. The All-City Back to School Festival, held at the Cleveland Auditorium, was a vibrant and heartwarming event that brought the entire community together. The atmosphere buzzed with joy and excitement as families and students lined up for free haircuts, free school supplies, books, and a wellness check that provided fun for the whole family. Laughter echoed through the auditorium as kids showed freshly styled hair and new school supplies, ready to start the school year with confidence.
Volunteers and local vendors created a welcoming environment, making everyone feel valued and cared for. It wasn’t just a festival—it was a celebration of community, generosity, and new beginnings. Rhonda distributed educational materials and resources on behalf of the State Support Team for Region 3, serving Cuyahoga County as well.
The purpose of this festival was to deliver a resourcerich kickoff to the school year for Cleveland families and scholars. The impact of this festival was farreaching, engaging not only families and scholars but also volunteers, exhibitors, program partners, school administrators, and staff, with approximately 3,000 attendees throughout the day.
Michele (Shelly) Gaski, M.Ed. Director, State Support Team Region 3 (Serving Cuyahoga County) ESC of Northeast Ohio 216-446-3812 www.escneo.org/StateSupportTeam.aspx
The Wallace Foundation’s research underscores that principals are not just administrative figures— they are transformative instructional leaders who, when supported and prepared well, produce measurable gains in student outcomes and school effectiveness. The evidence suggests that investing in principal development, pipelines, and support systems is among the highest-return strategies for improving K–12 education.
Fourteen principal leaders from across Northeast Ohio were nominated by their superintendents for demonstrating strong potential in educational leadership. These leaders are participating in a Leadership Cohort designed to strengthen and elevate their practice through eight networking and learning sessions centered on evidence-based practices in school leadership.
As part of the program, principals complete the CliftonStrengths Assessment, an online tool
developed by Gallup that identifies top talent themes. They receive personalized feedback on their current skills, which will be integrated into each session. The assessments are connected to key topics such as curriculum clarity, critical conversations, and building a school culture of belonging. Additional focus areas include coaching teachers, and guiding instruction through the effective use of data.
The cohort has a variety of guest speakers who work in schools and understand the demand of the principal’s role.
The goal of the cohort is to provide principals with meaningful opportunities for reflection, growth, and collaboration with colleagues from diverse districts.
By strengthening leadership skills, participants will be better equipped to drive student achievement and foster thriving school communities.
Principals are not just administrative figures–they are transformative instructional leaders who, when supported and prepared well, produce measurable gains in student outcomes and school effectiveness.
Thanks to tools offered by Ohio’s Help Me Grow program, families and caregivers statewide are more aware than ever of how their child is developing–ensuring they reach crucial milestones in the first five years of life.
Sparkler, Help Me Grow's developmental screening platform for both families and providers, has a builtin Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) that allows users to screen a child’s developmental milestones quickly and easily. Since its launch in September 2024, developmental screenings using the ASQ have increased exponentially. In less than one year, Help Me Grow hit a significant milestone of more than 10,000 Ohio children screened!
Parents and caregivers can use the Sparkler: Play for Parenting app on their mobile device to:
» Complete free ASQs with their child
» Share the screening results with their child's providers
» Access age-appropriate activities to foster growth and development
» Create a "scrapbook" of their child's progress
Once a completed ASQ is submitted via the Sparkler app, a Help Me Grow Developmental
Screening Specialist will contact the family to review the results and connect them to additional resources.
Families can click here to learn more about the Help Me Grow’s ASQ Developmental Screening Program.
As a Sparkler Program Partner, both Early Care and Education providers and medical providers can:
» Gain access to a program-specific Sparkler dashboard
» Share an assigned program code with families and gain access to a child's screening results
» Complete screenings for children in their care
» Message with families
» Share play-based activities
» Meet the developmental screening requirement of Ohio’s revised Learning & Development quality rating standard
Click here to become a Sparkler Program Partner, and to access webinar, guidance documents, and instructional videos needed to get started with Sparkler.
Families can now track their child’s developmental skills through the Sparkler: Play for Parenting app and its built-in Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ). Available through Ohio's Help Me Grow program, the app and screening are FREE to Ohio families with children through age 5. Use access code OH upon download, and learn more at www.helpmegrow.org/ASQ.
Six area school districts are among the first to join the 2025–2026 launch cohort of the Urban Personalized Learning Initiative, a new program from the First Ring Schools Collaborative (FRSC) and KnowledgeWorks designed to accelerate personalized, student-centered learning.
Participating teams include:
» Parma City Schools – Parma Academy of Gifted Enrichment (PAGE)
» Shaker Heights City Schools – Shaker Heights High School
» Maple Heights City Schools – MHHS Educational & Career Advancement Center
» Warrensville Heights City Schools –Warrensville High School
» Euclid City Schools – Euclid High School
» East Cleveland School District - Cross District Group
The initiative provides educators with tools and collaborative learning cycles focused on personalized competency-based education models, learner agency, learner created goal setting, and progress monitoring toward mastery. Teams of principals, instructional coaches, teachers, and district representatives will work
together to implement innovative practices that prepare students for an ever-changing future.
“By investing in personalized, competency-based learning, participating districts are empowering both students and educators to thrive,” said Dr. Bill Wagner, Director of the First Ring Schools Collaborative.
Abbie Everett, Senior Manager of Teaching and Learning at KnowledgeWorks, added: “This initiative is about giving educators the support and flexibility they need to meet students where they are. When schools create environments where learners feel seen, heard, and challenged, we unlock the potential for every student to succeed.”
“Personalized learning opens doors for every student and every educator to discover what truly works for them,” said Amy Harker, Personalized Learning Specialist and Facilitator for the Urban Personalized Learning Initiative. “Together, we can design learning that inspires, empowers, and transforms. When we personalize learning, we don’t just change instruction–we create opportunities for every learner to thrive in ways that matter most to them.”
The First Ring Leadership Academy (FRLA) launched its 2025-2026 program on October 22 at the ESC of Northeast Ohio, bringing together educational leaders for a day of professional development and collaborative learning.
The session combined leadership development activities with practical applications for first ring school districts. Participants engaged in various interactive exercises, including Human Bingo and assessment of their leadership strengths through Gallup CliftonStrengths 34 analysis.
A key focus of the day was exploring what makes first ring school districts unique, with participants
identifying both assets and challenges specific to their educational environments. The program also included examination of real-world case studies and discussion of leadership principles from "Everyday People, Extraordinary Leadership" by Kouzes and Posner.
The academy, which will continue throughout the academic year, emphasizes practical leadership development while addressing the specific needs of first ring suburban school districts. The November session will explore the leadership principle "Model the Way."
The program demonstrates the ongoing commitment of first ring districts to develop strong educational leaders who understand and can address the unique challenges and opportunities in their communities. Academy participants are selected by their superintendents.
The first session of the First Ring Student Leadership Institute (FRSLI) brought together 187 high school students and 30 advisors from the 16 school districts around Cleveland. Dr. Adam Voight and Dr. Rosalinda Godinez from the Cleveland State University Center for Urban Education introduced the concept of Youth Participatory Action Research with the firstyear participants while second and third-year participants discussed areas of focus for statewide research.
Dr. Chris Wollard, Chief Integration Officer at the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, discussed with student leaders the current work being done at the state level around the development of a state model policy for Artificial Intelligence use in K-12 schools in Ohio, and sought student input regarding possible applications, safety guardrails, and restrictions. Year 2 and Year 3 FRSLI student leaders will collaborate with their peers in the Ohio State University Student Leadership Research Collaborative, led by Dr. Keith Bell, in partnership with the OSU College of Education and Human Ecology and the ESC of Central Ohio.
On September 30, the ESC of Northeast Ohio’s School Communication Network hosted a fullday “Sharpening Your Media Skills” training for school leaders across the region. The session focused on helping participants build confidence in front of the camera, refine their key messages, and navigate challenging interview situations with professionalism and poise.
Through interactive exercises and mock interviews, attendees practiced responding to real-world media scenarios, learning how to communicate clearly under pressure and stay focused on their district’s story.
A special thank you to Dick Russ and Maureen Kyle for sharing their newsroom expertise and insider perspectives on what makes an effective interview. Appreciation is also extended to our school communication professionals from area
districts who served as panelists, offering valuable guidance on proactive communication and media engagement.
The day provided participants with practical tools to strengthen transparency, trust, and confidence when representing their schools in the public eye.
The ESC of Northeast Ohio and the First Ring Schools Collaborative hosted An E4Me Career Program on October 23 at the ESC of Northeast Ohio. Approximately 200 high school students from schools from Berea, Brooklyn, Cleveland HeightsUniversity Heights, Cleveland, Cuyahoga Heights, East Cleveland, Euclid, Garfield Heights, Maple Heights, Richmond Heights, Shaker Heights, and Warrensville Heights attended.
Students learned about their employment, entrepreneurship, enlistment, and education opportunities after high school graduation.
There were 40 panelists/presenters that work in different fields as well as all branches of the United States military who had the opportunity to interact with the students. One of the most common pieces of advice from the panelists was the importance of young adults developing soft skills… having a good work ethic, integrity, responsibility, being on time, having good communication skills and showing proper manners.
“We hope this day has inspired these students to think about their future in a new light and now have insight into making decisions on their next pathway,” said Tippi Foley, Career Pathways & Early Childhood Consultant for the ESC of Northeast Ohio.
…. E4Me expanded my horizon and showed many great opportunities and careers.
… It was great! I thought it was cool and quite hands-on. All of the staff members were helpful and great at explaining the options for if I wanted to do stuff fresh out of high school or during school. I learned about the military stuff I could do while still in school, such as basic training. And I confirmed the career I wanted to explore was at Tri-C and that was helpful, too.
…I love the amount of opportunities that I got to encounter. It makes me want to change the career path that I was first interested in from the amount of great things I saw.
… I found something I was actually interested in, and I'm going to follow up with it to start the process.
to our presenters and panelists:
» Air Force ROTC
» Autoblast
» Big Daddy's Honey and Essential Oils
» BBLOTT Building Business Leaders of Tomorrow Today
» City of Cleveland Public Safety
» Cleveland Builds
» Cleveland Clinic Program Manager
| Center for Youth & College Education
» Cleveland Job Corps
» Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department
» Cuyahoga Valley Career Center Adult Ed
» CVCC Skills USA
» Federal Homeland Security
» Giant Eagle American Seaway Foods & Cleveland Cold Storage
» Great Lakes Construction
» Howley ASPIRE Nurse Scholars Program CCF
» Independence Fire Department
» Iron Workers
» John Carroll University
» Kent State University Admissions
» MAGNET
» Mary Kay Cosmetics
» Matrix Institute
» ODOT Plow truck
» Ohio Army National Guard
» Operating Engineers
» Pretty Girls Train
» Richmond Heights Police
» Sheet Metal Workers - Smart Local 33
» Tesar Industrial Contractors
» Tile Setters union Business Manager
» TREMCO Industries
» Tri-C Admissions
» US AIR FORCE/Space Force
» US Army SSG Orozco
» US Coast Guard
» US MARINES
» US NAVY
» You Enjoy My Donuts
» Youth Opportunities Unlimited (Y.O.U.)
Big things are happening at the Achievement Centers! The team is preparing to move into a brand-new facility in the first quarter of 2026. The new space, located at 28501 Clemens Road in Westlake, will provide enhanced opportunities to support students in an inspiring environment designed for growth and success.
The school provides year-round instruction to school-age students from kindergarten through grade 12. The program offers a full school day for children identified under IDEA as a student
with autism or similar disability categories. In collaboration with the ESC of Northeast Ohio, licensed, certified staff serve the needs of these students.
Stay tuned for a sneak peek of our new building as we get closer to the big move.
For information, contact: Kimberly Allen, Director of Education Achievement Center for Children kimberly.allen@achievementctrs.org
The new school year brings opportunities for growth, learning, and discovery, and we are thrilled to be part of each child’s educational journey. At Capstone, we celebrate every student’s individuality. Our dedicated team of teachers, therapists, and support staff is committed to fostering a supportive environment where every child can thrive. Each day, students engage in sensory experiences and hands-on lessons that spark curiosity, promote independence, and make learning meaningful and fun.
Our students participate in academic subjects, including English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. We follow the Ohio Learning Standards, which outline what students should know by the end of each school year. To best meet the unique needs of our students, we use the Ohio Learning Standards – Extended, which are adapted to help students with significant intellectual disabilities learn and demonstrate knowledge in ways that work best for them.
Beyond core academics, students also take part in engaging classes such as Adapted Physical Activity (modified physical education), Integrated
Arts (music, art, dance), Snoezelen (multisensory activities), and vocational courses. These opportunities help our students build new skills, explore their interests, and enjoy hands-on learning experiences.
This year, we’re excited to introduce Fun Day Fridays! Students will enjoy participating in projects and activities of interest, as well as assemblies, entertainment, and other school-wide events.
For information, contact: Mary Wideman, Program Administrator mary.wideman@escneo.org 330-732-8249
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. All of the students and staff returned energized and ready to start a brand new school year. We welcomed three new students to Audrey’s classroom.
For information, contact: Lisa Adler, Supervisor lisa.adler@escneo.org 440-688-1280
We welcome Jennifer, a Mayfield Schools student. She is creating a tree art project to decorate the hallway.
Cameron, a South Euclid-Lyndhurst student is enjoying the new adaptive playground outside of Audrey’s classroom.
Robin, Alona, Audrey and the classroom created a timeline showing the progress of how Rice Krispy treats are made, then followed the visual timeline to enjoy the timeless treat.
Swimming continues to be part of the curriculum on Tuesdays. Pictured is Julie with Sophia and Ja’Meela with Rob.
We also welcomed Denise, Jennifer’s one on one nurse.
Myah, a Mentor School District student, is also enjoying the nice weather and the adaptive playground.
Cody helps Izzy crumble nuts for the candied apples, to celebrate fall and the delicious apples. Both classrooms made them in the building’s Home Ec. room.
Rob’s class took a field trip to the newly renovated Natural History Museum. The screen senses motion by Ayden’s hand movement and creates stars and a galaxy on the screen.
The Bedford City Schools “Welcome Back, Bearcats” Mini-Video Series captured the district’s diverse and dynamic schools during their opening weeks of the 2025-2026 school year. Each edition shining a light on a school in the district and provides insight into their culture and commitment.
At South Euclid-Lyndhurst Schools, hands-on learning takes many exciting forms! At Greenview Upper Elementary School, which houses grades 4–6, STEM teacher Steve Milazzotto is introducing unique lessons into the curriculum in his first year with the district.
Through a newly established partnership with The Herps Alive Foundation, a rescue and rehabilitation center for reptiles and amphibians located in South Euclid, Greenview is now fostering two sulcata tortoises named Taco and Tortilla.
Milazzotto is incorporating the care of these creatures into a variety of STEM-related activities, including lessons about animal care and tortoise behavior, designing and building new enclosures, and growing lettuce and other food staples using a hydroponic system—an effort he hopes will also help offset costs for Herps Alive.
“We don’t know how long the tortoises will be with us. We’re fostering, so if someone decides they want to adopt a sulcata tortoise, they will be able to do so,” said Milazzotto. “We’re hoping to rotate or even expand the animals we’re able to foster from Herps Alive in the future, if possible.”
Having these beautiful animals in the classroom goes beyond the opportunities for integration into the curriculum. Students can visit Taco or Tortilla when they need a short break during their busy school day. While Taco’s enclosure is located in the STEM classroom, Tortilla lives in a special education classroom, where students can often be found reading to her or simply enjoying her company.
Milazzotto is keeping an ear open for any other staff members willing to welcome a foster reptile or amphibian into their classroom spaces.
In an increasingly complex digital world, public school districts face the constant challenge of ensuring clear, authentic communication with all stakeholders. For Bay Village Schools, a key part of this strategy involves strengthening ties with a vital, yet often harder-to-reach, demographic: the district's senior citizens and empty-nesters. To address this, the district launched an innovative older adult ambassador team called the Community Communications Committee. The team consists of 15 current and former educators, engineers, communicators and other professionals – all 60-plus – who speak freely about their own questions, suggestions and concerns, and those that are surfacing in the community.
It’s challenging enough for a district communications department to keep pace with how current parents – an active, often digitallysavvy group – consume information, but what about the sage residents who may not be on social media, or who prefer traditional forms of news?
How does a school district ensure authentic, twoway communication with this large and respected portion of its population?
Bay Village Schools’ recent deep dive into its communications, which included an audit, review and focus groups, revealed a critical piece of data: 63% of the district’s residents do not have students enrolled in the schools. Many of these residents are active, senior adults and empty-nesters who chose to remain in the community long after their own children graduated. They value the district that was central to their family life, and want to remain connected and informed.
The review affirmed that while the district's branding is tight and messaging is consistent, stakeholders, especially seniors, craved more. They welcomed additional opportunities to interact with the district and expressed a specific interest in quick-grab information about events like concerts, plays, town halls and athletic competitions, as well as Q&A-formatted articles covering district academic progress and finances.
“The Community Communications Committee has been invaluable for me to keep up with what is going on in Bay Village Schools, but the biggest positive for me is that I am able to answer friends, who are usually seniors like myself, with valuable fact-based information about such things as funding, specifically the school levies and the impact that government cuts are having,” said Dody Chadwick. “I also can help with where to get information like tickets for plays or sports events, and I can let them know about fun things like the school podcasts and email newsletters.”
The creation of the Community Communications Committee was a direct result of the district's
recent comprehensive communications plan, which aims to enhance student, family and community engagement. This plan identified the need for ambassador teams to ensure two-way communication with key groups.
While the district also launched a Parent Ambassadors Team to proactively address current family questions and dispel or neutralize misinformation on social media, the Community Communication Committee focuses on the unique needs of former parents, current grandparents and senior residents.
The district’s search for Community Communications Committee members was deliberate, relying on referrals from community, civic and faith leaders, as well as tapping existing district volunteers and even a few naysayers. Those approached were asked to serve on an informal committee to provide candid feedback on three core questions:
1. How do you want to receive news about the district?
2. What do you want to know more about the district?
3. What else can the district do to serve you?
The commitment is designed to be minimal, just an hour or so every other month during the school year, meeting over a cup of Joe and cookies at a local coffee shop or the Board of Education to share candid thoughts.
“I look forward to these meetings and leave having learned so much from these residents who raised their own children here,” said Scot Prebles, Superintendent of Bay Village Schools. “This team has earned their stripes. They are active members of our community who decided to stay put. We want them involved, we need them and we learn from them.”
Community Communications Committee members serve as a vital link, sharing why empty-nesters and seniors continue to live in the district where they raised their own children. The district understands that residents moved to Bay Village for the schools, the lakefront and city services, and stay because they feel safe and settled. They want to remain connected and, importantly, be reminded about how their tax dollars are being spent to maintain the high quality of the school system.
The insights gleaned from this committee are invaluable. For example, knowing that seniors prefer quick, easily accessible information for events has helped guide the communications team's focus on refining the district’s website and ENewsletter distribution. Furthermore, their feedback about a desire for accessible financial and academic explanations has reinforced the need for simple, digestible articles and oversized postcards.
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Moving forward, Bay Village Schools plans to build upon the success of its ambassador teams. The next steps include:
• Expanding the role of the Community Communications Committee to review perceptual data and assist in developing future plans to address common topics and questions.
• Continuing to build the portfolio of community communications pieces, ensuring they align with the expressed desires of this important strategic audience.
• Constantly reviewing the website, mobile app and other communications tools and collateral pieces to ensure all critical audiences can gain and ascertain information as quickly and easily as possible.
By prioritizing authentic, two-way communication with its senior population through the Community Communications Committee, Bay Village Schools is demonstrating its commitment to better communicating with all residents, but especially honoring the deep and lasting connection this important audience has to the schools. This initiative has transformed a communications challenge into an opportunity for genuine partnership.
The Aurora City School District launched a new Aurora High School Cybersecurity Program to offer students who are interested in a career path in the growing cybersecurity field. This is one of only two cybersecurity programs in Northeast Ohio. A career in cybersecurity now ranks within one of the top 20 fastest growing career fields in the country. Students with relevant class and internship experience who are looking to forge a career in the cybersecurity sector are in high demand in the digital world with the field continuing to grow in the future.
This initiative offers students real-world experiences through internships and industry-
recognized certifications, leading to immediate job opportunities after graduation. Partnering with Paradigm Cyber Ventures, the program provides comprehensive training for teachers and includes the formation of a Cyber Advisory Board. Aurora High School is poised to become a leader in cybersecurity education, preparing students for high-demand careers in this rapidly growing field.
Former AHS Principal, Mike Hayes, and AHS teacher, Nick Kukarola, secured a $20,000 grant from the Aurora Schools Foundation (ASF) allowing them to proceed with the program. The Aurora City School District’s current Superintendent, Dr. Paul Milcetich, also secured a sizable grant for
the program from the ESC of Northeast Ohio. The Aurora Schools partnered with the organization Paradigm, which creates robust cybersecurity curriculum, programming and professional development for staff, at high schools nationwide. Paradigm can currently be found in 18 states and AHS is only the second in this region, making it a hub for cybersecurity growth and development in Northeast Ohio.
The first course, Cybersecurity 1, was already up and running within the 2024-2025 school year for students in grades 9-12. The only prerequisite is a passion for or interest in the topic, and no previous experience in cybersecurity or computer science is required. This is the first course in the Paradigm Aurora City Schools program, and students will explore Cyber Ethics, Fundamentals of Computing, Networking, Cryptology, Linux, System Administration, Cybersecurity Threats, Risk Identification, and much more. Students can expect an engaging learning environment with simulations and authentic, cyber security applications during class and are expected to participate in cybersecurity competitions throughout the year. Future Cybersecurity courses will be added as options in the next two years giving students the chance to complete the threeyear program-sequence providing an opportunity to graduate with an industry certification while being workforce-ready.
Hayes said, “Thank you to the ASF for the incredible support in helping to launch the AHS Cybersecurity program! We are truly grateful and so very excited for Greenmen Nation!”
The official ribbon cutting ceremony last fall included numerous ACSD staff, Aurora Board of Education members, Aurora Schools Foundation
members, and business leaders, along with State of Ohio and City of Aurora officials. The event featured speakers including, Dr. Paul Milcetich (current Superintendent), Bryan McDowell (Business Leader), Nick Kukarola (Cybersecurity Class Instructor), Kavya Balreddygari, (Student), and Keith Koehne and Mike Lynch (Paradigm Cyber Ventures). A large media presence was on hand with News5 Cleveland, Fox 8 News, Channel 19 News and Community Focus (Spectrum Channel 1021) in attendance. The ceremony was featured on News5 Cleveland (https://www. news5cleveland.com/news/local-news/auroracity-schools-launches-new-tech-course-teachingstudents-cybersecurity-trades) and aired on September 20, 2024.
From Left to Right: Nick Kukarola (Cybersecurity Instructor), Kavya Balreddygari (Student), Jennifer Glich (BOE Member), Elisa Katz (ASF), Pam Mehallis (BOE President), Rachael Reight (ASF), Dr. Paul Milcetich (Superintendent), John Green (Student), Mike Hayes (Assistant Superintendent)
Since the early 2000s, the District has convened a District Leadership Team (DLT) composed of administrators and teachers from across all schools. The team meets four times a year to discuss the District’s continuous improvement efforts. Over the past three years—beginning in the 2022–2023 school year—the District has added some important new voices to the team: our students.
The suggestion to include students came from Superintendent Maggie Niedzwiecki, and the answer was an immediate yes. Students from grades five through twelve have been gradually added to the team each year. Now, with a full roster of nine student members, their impact is clear.
“Last year, we added fifth-grade students to the team, and it was a resounding success,” said Assistant Superintendent Christie Palumbo, who facilitates the group. “The students have become active participants, often sharing their thoughts in the large group, which consists of approximately 40–50 members.”
The students are not simply observers who make occasional comments during meetings—they are full participants. DLT student members help develop and shape student reflection documents, deep learning projects, and other critical initiatives related to the Vision of a Lakewood Ranger.
Sophomore Mia Dugan says being part of DLT has opened her eyes to the work happening behind the scenes to support students’ success.
“The District Leadership Team plays a crucial role in shaping our school district, but its work generally goes unseen by students,” Mia said.
“In eighth grade, when I was asked to join the district leadership team, I had no idea what I was getting into. Since then, I have recognized the vital importance of the DLT and its meaningful effects on every aspect of our school district. The DLT shapes how Lakewood students learn, and I'm so glad to be a part of something so significant to Lakewood's community,” she continued.
Harding sixth grader Gabby Garner says being part of DLT has touched her in several ways. After her principal invited her to join the group, she thought, “They could have chosen anyone but they chose me, and I felt proud.” She accepted the invitation, she said, “because I wanted to see what I could do and if that would help me get out of my comfort zone.”
A perfect example of displaying our Vision of a Lakewood Ranger competency of growth mindset!
At Shaker Heights City Schools, helping students feel connected, supported, and valued is a top priority. Research shows that when students feel like they belong, they’re more likely to attend school regularly and succeed academically.
That’s why the district has made “positive school culture” one of its key goals — and it’s bringing that vision to life through creative programs that help students bond and build confidence. From an afterschool Bike Club where students repair and donate bicycles to families in need, to a Kindness Club
spreading encouragement across classrooms, and a musical theatre program giving young performers the spotlight — Shaker students are discovering new ways to connect and thrive.
These efforts are making a real difference in creating schools where every student feels they belong.
Read the full story in Shaker Life: Bonding & Belonging.
Mayfield City Schools hosted the Big Ideas Showcase, welcoming education leaders from Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Missouri to learn more about the innovative teaching and learning opportunities happening in Mayfield classrooms. The event highlighted Mayfield's signature personalized learning programs and pathways like The Option, Learn and Earn and Cross-Curricular classes.
"We are proud to welcome education leaders from across the region to Mayfield City Schools," said Superintendent Dr. Michael Barnes. "Our Big Ideas Showcase highlights the creativity, dedication, and innovation happening every day in our classrooms. Seeing our students lead tours, share their learning, and engage with community partners reminds us that when we collaborate, the possibilities for student success are limitless."
Guests boarded buses to explore firsthand the Learn & Earn pathways through site visits to Swagelok Company and Brookes & Henderson. Visitors were able to see in person how partnerships connect students to careers in manufacturing, automation, pre-engineering, and home building.
At Mayfield High School, student leaders guided campus tours featuring The Option Program, the Innovation Center, and cross-curricular learning at Wildcat Sport & Fitness. A Lunch & Learn session and breakout workshops provided opportunities to dive deeper into topics such as curriculum design, interdisciplinary instruction, student-business partnerships, master scheduling, and professional learning communities.
From classroom to career pathways, our Wildcats are showing the way! Thanks to all our visiting educators for joining the adventure!
#mychoicemayfield #startwithyes
Each year, the Ohio Teacher of the Year nominations are open February through early April. School administrators, colleagues, community members, parents or students may submit a nomination for one or multiple teachers from a school or district. State Board of Education members assist with the recognition program activities. Following an in-depth nomination, application and selection process this year, 11 State Board District Teachers of the Year were selected for 2026.
For over two decades, LeShun “Ship” Collins has been a transformative educator, mentor, and advocate whose impact reaches far beyond the classroom. At Orange High School in the Orange City Schools, his work in health and physical education is more than a job, it’s a mission rooted in purpose, equity, and empowerment.
Collins is widely respected for forming meaningful connections with students, inspiring them to think critically, challenge societal limitations, and discover their voice. In recognition of his outstanding work, he was named the district’s Teacher of the Year in 2013.
His legacy includes programs that have reshaped lives. Through the Male Minority Leadership Program—a mentoring initiative he founded
and one that earned recognition from President Obama— Collins supports young men of color in becoming confident, visionary leaders.
Beyond school walls, Collins serves his community with the same passion. As a Board Member of the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center, he advocates for survivors and social justice. On the basketball court, his accolades—including the 2003 AP Ohio Coach of the Year and 2019 Chagrin Valley Conference Coach of the Year—are a reflection of his character-first approach to coaching.
As a published writer and thought leader, he challenges systems through platforms such as the National Administrative Council Forum. Holding an Education Specialist in policy, leadership, and social change, Collins brings both scholarship and heart to his work.
In 2025, he was honored with the OEA Doris L. Allen Human and Civil Rights Award and the NEA Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Award— recognition of a life dedicated to justice, equity, and hope.
Educators, Districts, Agencies, Organizations, Universities & Colleges, Students, Adult Learners, Families & Communities, Businesses
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Bob Mengerink
Superintendent 937-974-4966 (cell) 216-901-4204 (office) Bob.Mengerink@escneo.org
Jennifer Dodd
Assistant Superintendent 440-725-6447 (cell) 216-901-4240 (office) Jennifer.Dodd@escneo.org
Andrew Pizzulo Treasurer 330-646-8775 (cell) 216-524-3000 (office) Andrew.Pizzulo@escneo.org
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Steve Rogaski
Director of Human Resources and Pupil Services 440-983-1299 (cell) 216-901-4210 (office) Steve.Rogaski@escneo.org
Russ Bennett Co-Director of Leadership Services 330-414-4006 (cell) 216-901-4221 (office) Russ.Bennett@escneo.org
Patti Cleary Co-Director of Leadership Services 330-608-1353 (cell) 216-901-4283 (office) Patti.Cleary@escneo.org
Tippi Foley Director of Early Childhood 440-567-0296 (cell) 216-524-3000 x4289 (office) Tippi.Foley@escneo.org
Michele Gaski Director of School Improvement 330-328-3980 (cell) 216-446-3812 (office) Michele.Gaski@escneo.org
Laura Hebert Co-Director of Leadership Services 440-506-0245 (cell) Laura.Hebert@escneo.org
Paula Kucinic Director of Professional Learning and Workforce Development 440-821-6765 (cell) 216-901-4244 (office) Paula.Kucinic@escneo.org
Dave Laurenzi Co-Director of Leadership Services 216-701-0065 (cell) 216-524-3000 x4000 (office) Dave.Laurenzi@escneo.org
Ryan Pendleton Executive Director of Shared Services Alliance and Connect ITC 216-225-8548 (cell) Ryan.Pendleton@escneo.org
Anthony Pizzuti Director of Student Wellness 216-374-7164 (cell) 216-446-3802 (office) Anthony.Pizzuti@escneo.org
Kelly Stukus Director of Teaching and Learning 440-591-9801 (cell) 216-525-2522 (office) Kelly.Stukus@escneo.org
Bill Wagner Co-Director of First Ring Schools Collaborative 216-470-9816 (cell) 216-524-3000 (office) Bill.Wagner@escneo.org