It’s back to school... are you ready?
The District Bulldog Games Are Back!
By Lori Nickels, Director of Special Education
Dear Students, Families, and Community Members,
I hope this message finds you all well and enjoying a wonderful summer filled with relaxation, fun, and memorable moments with loved ones. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our students, families, and staff for their commit ment to success throughout the past school year. I am incredibly proud of the achievements we have accomplished together. We had another award-winning year for the McKinley Band and Speech
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and Debate programs. Our Career Tech team successfully placed students in top apprenticeship programs. Five buildings earned Momentum Awards from the Ohio Department of Education for their academic growth. Congratulations to the Arts Academy, Crenshaw, Early College Middle School, McGregor, and Worley for this achievement. And, as you read through this issue, you will see so much more to celebrate.
lowest tuition in the area fits your
online and in-person classes fits your plan
four-year transfer pathways or training for in-demand jobs
The CCSD Board Of Education
A message from our BOE president, Scott Russ: Summer is finally here!
Congratulations to the Class of 2024. On behalf of the Board of Education, we want to wish you the best of luck as you move into the next phase of life, whether you are entering the workplace, enlisting in the military, or continuing your education. This class earned over $700,000 in scholarship money! We will always be here for you!
I want to welcome Myra Watkins as our newest board member. Myra was sworn in at our January meeting. Many of you may know her as the former principal at Gibbs and she served as a principal for 20+ years in the district. We enjoy working with her and having her share her knowledge and expertise with us.
I want to congratulate John “JR” Rinaldi on his 15 years as a board member. JR was also honored with the community service award by the National High School Football Hall of Fame. Canton City Schools is fortunate to have JR occupying that seat. Thank you JR for your dedication and all you do for the district. Souers and Mason demolition should be completed by now. Two brand new state-of-the-art K-6 buildings will be replacing those structures. Our new indoor Bulldog Athletic Center will be opening soon. An open house will be scheduled. Look for the communication if you are interested.
Go Pups!!
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Mid-Summer Update From the Superintendent!
Preparing for the New School Year
As we look ahead to the upcoming school year, our dedicated staff is already planning and preparing for a smooth and successful start. Please check the important dates listed in this issue and visit our website and social media pages for updates:
• Back-to-School Events: Open houses, Pup Camp for preschool and Kindergarten, staggered start dates for transition grades, and a Meet the Teams Community Pep Rally are all happening. Watch for announcements. These are great opportunities to get acquainted with your new teachers, classrooms, and school routines.
• School Supplies: Supply lists for preschool and elementary schools are listed in this issue. Middle and high school supplies are based on course selections and will be sent out through ParentSquare. Lists are also available on our website.
• Family Fun Day: As of press time, we are still in the planning stages for this annual tradition. Stay tuned for details.
Safety first
The CCSD is committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students and staff. Last year, we successfully implemented weapon detectors in several buildings. In the fall, we will add vaping detectors for the high school and middle school buildings. The board approved the purchase of Triton Ultra Vaping Detectors in June. Our participation with other districts in a class-action lawsuit against Juul partially covered this cost.
High school students will also have photo identification badges this year. School IDs will assist our safety staff and administration in easily identifying active students and ensuring that unauthorized people do not enter the building.
Stay Connected
Communication is key to a successful school experience. We encourage you to stay connected with us through our various communication channels:
• District Website: For calendars, contact information, and resources.
Upcoming Board Meetings
August 5: Meeting - 6 pm
Sept. 9: Meeting - 6 pm
October 7: Meeting - 6 pm
November 4: Meeting - 6 pm
December 2: Meeting - 6 pm
Location: Timken Career Campus (unless specified) 521 Tuscarawas St., W., Canton, OH 44702 (Use the Fourth Street NW entrance)
Watch meetings live at: http://boelive.ccstv11.com/
*All BOE Meeting Videos are Archived.
• Social Media: Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for real-time updates and highlights from our schools.
• eNewsletters: Keep an eye on your inbox for our newsletters with important informa tion and upcoming events.
Enjoy the Rest of Your Summer
Lastly, Congratulations and best of luck to our Class of 2024! As you prepare to make your way to college, ca reer apprenticeships, the military, or other endeavors, know that you are always Bull dogs and we are here for you.
The Bulldog Bulletin is published by Canton City Schools and is distributed free of charge to the district community.
Editor: Lisa Reicosky, Coordinator of Communications and Media Relations
Canton City Schools, 305 McKinley Ave. NW, Canton, Ohio 44702
Questions and comments can be emailed to Reicosky_l@ccsdistrict.org.
Federal Law prohibits this paper from carrying ads containing offers of insurance policies, credit cards, and travel promotions. The Canton City Schools Board of Education reserves the right to reject any press release or advertisement based on content.
The Canton City School District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability, or age with respect to employment or educational programs and opportunities for students.
I want to remind everyone to take time to relax and enjoy the remaining weeks of summer. Whether traveling, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a good book, make the most of it. Rest and self-care are essential for returning to school refreshed and ready to learn.
Inside This Issue
Bulldog News
Performing Arts Settles In 4 Bulldog Activity Center and STEAMM Academy Building 5
Meet All-Star Ben Hoskins
CCSD Teacher of the Year 6 Congratulations To The Speech & Debate Team! 6
Elementary and Preschool Supply Lists & Important Dates 7
Honor Society Hosts
Extra, Extra Read All About It: Career Tech Performing Arts Growing Nicely Into Their New Home Downtown!
Chicago: Teen Edition - A Roaring Hit!
By Kristy McNally, CTE Performing Arts
This year’s musical, Chicago: Teen Edition, was an extraordinary success! It was an effort led by the Career Tech Performing Arts department to transform the Timken Commons and transport viewers to the Roaring 20s - and it was a great experience for cast, crew, and viewers. The site specific theater style, coupled with dinner theater inspiration, was a large undertaking and included the efforts of the following partners: CTE Culinary Arts, CTE Construction Trades, CTE Engineering, CTE Welding, CTE Commercial Photography, and also support from CTE Cosmetology and the CTE office & staff. Thank you also to the downtown campus administration and custodial staff - you rock! Finally, thank you to the parents and commu nity for your support in this unique, never before seen production style, we are thankful for the opportunity!
The completion of the new Black Box theater is nigh. The grid system has been installed, the board operations booth has been constructed, and the
to social media for the date of our inaugural event in the new space this fall!
Cherish Foster
(Photos taken from this spring’s Chicago: Teen Edition production)
Raelynn Cline & Samantha Spencer
London Chavers
Tech Booth Grid Marley Floor
Photos by Heather Hutmacher, CTE Commercial Photography
Modern, State-Of-The-Art Buildings Ready for Business
Grand openings coming soon for the Bulldog Activity Center and STEAMM Academy multi-purpose building!
By Jason Dixon, Assistant Superintendent
The district is excited to announce the successful completion of two major construction projects. The Bulldog Activity Center on the Downtown Campus and the Multi-Use Building at the STEAMM Academy @ Hartford marks a significant milestone in our goal to provide 21st-century learning spaces for students and staff. From concept to completion, these state-of-the-art facilities represent our commitment to excellence, innovation, and the entire Canton community.
Bulldog Activity Center
The signs are up and the turf is down at this 110,000-square-foot space! The building consists of two separate sides connected by a viewing balcony and locker rooms. One building features 50 feet of turf, and the other has a six-lane, 200-meter track with three courts in the center for volleyball, basketball, tennis, and pickleball. Youth programs, student-athletes, and the entire community will benefit from this new facility.
STEAMM Academy
The new 10,000-square-foot multi-use building is located on the northwest end of the building. The space features a basketball/ volleyball court, but will be used for more than sports. This building is ideal for indoor recess, expanded classroom space, and community events. The building’s two garage doors lead to a retention pond that will be stocked with fish and used for science, horticulture, and agriculture classes. The remaining field south of the new building will be used for planting crops and fruit trees. This entire area will perfectly complement the existing greenhouse and chicken coops. We envision periodic farmers’ markets in partnership with the community.
Crenshaw Middle School
At press time, the steel was rising on Crenshaw’s east side where a new main entrance, offices, and gym will be completed by December 2024. A new traffic loop to this main entrance with a parking lot will complete the project. This was part of a campus overhaul that included new classrooms, a turf football field donated by the Superdome in New Orleans, and an all-weather track installed last year.
STEAMM inside and outside
Bulldog Activity Center field
Assistant Superintendent
Jason Dixon
Meet County All-Star Ben Hoskins CCSD Teacher of the Year!
By Lisa Reicosky, CCS Communications
Worley technology teacher Ben Hoskins was the district’s nominee to the Stark County All-County Teaching Team!
Hoskins is a Canton native who attended Worley and Lehman Jr. High School and graduated from McKinley in 1995. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education in 1999 at Malone College and his master’s degree from Ashland University in 2006. The upcoming school year will be his 25th year of teaching, all in Canton City! He has taught at Belden, Worley, and Mason Elementary Schools, with most of them being a 4th grade teacher. Here is our Q & A with Mr. Hoskins:
Q: Why did you want to be a teacher?
A: I chose to be a teacher because people are my passion. I enjoy working with people (kids and adults) and I enjoy teaching them new things. I had some tremendous teachers and coaches in my school years growing up in Canton that inspired me to help the next generation. They taught me that it’s more than just books and academics. It’s about developing leaders and independent thinkers for life. It’s about helping every student become the best version of themselves and equipping them for a productive future, whether they stay here locally or travel abroad.
Q: What is your favorite part of being a teacher?
A: I have a list!
• Forming positive relationships and connections with students and families. A positive climate and transparency are key to the success of any classroom or school and makes the whole experience more authentic. This
allows students to make their biggest gains and ultimately feel a sense of pride in their accomplishments.
• Watching students not only grow in knowledge, but also growing into their “person” that can make a difference in the world. It’s seeing them become their best by building on their talents and strengths.
• Seeing students get excited about being at school and learning new things. When they want to be there, well, … that’s half of the battle.
• Seeing where students end up (reaching their dreams), beyond their school years, whether it be the college they choose to go to or the job or career path they get involved with.
Q: What advice would you give to college students interested in education?
A: I would say that it is not easy but it is very rewarding. Education gives you the opportunity to change lives and give the younger generation inspiration and direction for greatness. If you pour your heart into your role and make the daily routines of the profession enjoyable for yourself and your students, the results will come and you will touch lives well beyond what you are able to see today. I would tell them that to be a teacher is a calling and though the educational career path is challenging, the reward of accomplishment in the end is worth the time and effort you put into it.
Fun facts about Mr. Hoskins!
• I was raised a stone’s-throw from Worley and my parents, Ben and Joni still live in the same house where I grew up.
• I live five blocks from Worley with my wife, Emily, and we brought up all three of our sons in the Worley neighborhood.
• I had the pleasure of being able to teach all three of my sons when they were in fourth grade.
• My brother, Joe (McKinley’s Athletic Trainer) lives across the street from us with his wife, Leah, and their two children who also attend Canton City Schools.
• I have lived in Canton my whole life.
• I am a Bulldog for life!
Congratulations To The Speech & Debate Team!
Placing were:
• Jessie Mayle - Quarterfinalist in Oratory (23 out of 280 champion qualifiers)
• Jesi McCullough - Quarterfinalist in humor (28th out of 260 champion qualifiers)
• Abby Allen, Dajeun Dickerson, and Peighton McLendon were all in the top 100 of over 250 in their events.
• Genevieve McLaughlin competed in six rounds of Big Questions Debate. Qualifiers were from every state and U.S. territory. In speech sweepstakes, McKinley was among the top three Ohio team finishers. Combined, the team contributed to twenty first-place ballots throughout the tournament!
Congratulations to the McKinley Speech and Debate team and coaches Manuel Halkias and Todd Michael Jr. for a fantastic National tournament.
Ben Hoskins
Kindergarten: 1 Change of Clothing in a Ziploc Bag
1st Grade, 2nd Grade: No additional items needed
3rd Grade: 2 Spiral Notebooks
4th Grade, 5th Grade, 6th Grade:
- 1 Highlighter
- 4 wide ruled spiral notebooks General K-6 Items
- 2 packs of loose-leaf, wide-ruled notebook paper
- 4 folders with pockets
In additiontotheitemsabove,thefollowingitems arerequested for specificgrades: If your family needs assistance in securing school supplies,
TAX HOLIDAY FOR SCHOOL SUPPLIES RETURNS!
w/name)
1 Set of Headphones for Child’s iPad (no earbuds or bluetooth)
Pack of Standard Sized Markers (larger ones)
Pack of Standard Sized Dry-erase Black Markers (larger ones)
Sticks of Elmer’s Glue (purple disappearing) Boxes of Crayola Crayons (24 count) Boxes of Tissues
Teachers may request additional supplies to utilize, in the classroom, as needed.
Honor Society Hosts Walk to End Hunger
The Canton McKinley High School National Honor Society hosted McKinley’s first-ever Walk to End Hunger on Saturday, May 18, 2024.
The walk benefits our community partner, Feed Kids First, with a small portion of the proceeds supporting the National Honor Society’s future charitable efforts.
Feed Kids First is a local non-profit organization that ensures no child will go without food and basic needs by securing and distributing food directly to children. The Feed Kids First School Pantry Program was launched in 2020 and connects local schools with community resources to fill the food insecurity gap among our students.
They currently serve 11 Canton City buildings: Belle Stone Elementary, Cedar Elementary, Crenshaw Middle School, Gibbs Elementary, Early College @ Lehman, Early Learning Center @ Schreiber, STEAMM Academy @ Hartford, Fairmount Learning Center, Passages @ Compton, Youtz Intermediate, and McKinley High School. The program includes Emergency School Food Pantries, Holiday/ Summer Meal Boxes, and snacks for the students.
Big thanks to all who made this event a huge success!
• Canton McKinley Bands
• Canton Police Department Officer Braswell
• Stark Parks, Canton Police Auxiliary
• Feed Kids First
• Canton City School District Safety & Security
• Mayor Sherer
• Chef Escola
• Board of Education
Kimberly Brown
• Jose Medina & AssociatesKeller Williams Legacy Group
• Hall of Fame Village
… And to all who donated and came out to walk!
Proud sponsors of the first Walk to End Hunger:
Crenshaw Recognizes Students at Annual Assembly
By Angela Seders, Principal
Crenshaw Middle School held its final Student Recognition Assembly of the 23-24 school year in May, celebrating the achievements and hard work of its students. The event, attended by staff, parents, and the student body, showcased a variety of accomplishments in academics, and extracurricular activities.
Principal Angela Seders opened the ceremony with a speech high-
lighting the resilience and dedication of the students.
“In a year filled with many changes, our students have shown incredible perseverance and commitment to excellence,” she remarked.
Awards were presented in several categories, including honor roll, merit roll, perfect attendance, and outstanding performance in
various subject areas. Special recognition was given to our eighthgrade students as they completed their middle school experience and head to high school.
One of the highlights of the assembly was the presentation of the Top Dawg Awards, which went to students recognized for their exceptional leadership.
The event concluded with a performance by the school’s choir, leaving attendees inspired and proud of the student body’s achievements. The assembly not only celebrated individual successes but also underscored the importance of community and support in reaching one’s goals.
The Canton Professional Educators Association is proud to support the McKinley High School National Honor Society in their Walk to End Hunger for Feed Kids First
New Signage for McKinley High School
Knowing where you are going - Leading others
By Chad Weaver, CTE Engineering Instructor
McKinley High School CTE Engineering program students have put their classroom practice into a real-world experience. When district personnel approached teacher Paul Donatelli with a task for his CTE programs he said maybe. Through the collaboration with Chad Weaver the two came up with a plan to have Weaver’s Manufacturing class produce the signs requested.
Problem Statement: McKinley High School is large and has many hallways and coves with classrooms in them. It is difficult for students, staff, and visitors to find the room they are looking for. Can new room signage be designed to help expedite travel within the building?
Design Statement: The students of the Principles of Manufacturing class along with the assistance of the CCP Inventor students will design, code, manufacture, assemble, and package the new signage for McKinley High School.
A daunting task, the class first had to research what size font to use, and how big each sign was to be. How would the signs be hung? The life span of the signs? What materials would be needed? These questions and many others needed to be answered before production could start.
Students used the AutoCAD drawings of the building to identify all rooms needing new signage. All rooms were then cross-checked with a building walkthrough. Maintenance was
consulted during the design phase for ease of installation.
From there it was time to start. Students used 3D CAD software (Autodesk Inventor) along with CAM software (Computer Aided Manufacturing) to write the CNC — Computer Numeric Code required to run the machines. Under the supervision of Weaver and Donatelli, students sawed aluminum bars, drilled, sanded, painted, milled, and laser engraved before the final assembly of the signs. With over 20 process steps to complete this task, the initial problem was solved — 143 double-sided signs are complete.
Students and faculty for the 2425 school year will return to a building with a new direction. Thank you to the CTE Engineering students for leading the way to assist future generations of students in finding their way to an education.
988 Is a Lifeline In a Mental Health Crisis
A trained counselor is always available
By Dan Mucci, C&A Mission Advancement Director
Suicidal ideation is on the rise nationwide, especially among teenagers and college-age students. Post COVID, adolescents are struggling to handle a variety of situations and have limited coping skills to help them through the challenges. One of the biggest challenges is loneliness.
What can lead an adolescent to believe life is no longer worth living? Suicide is rarely caused by a single circumstance or event. Instead, a range of factors can increase risk. Some of those include: Perception that you are a burden to others:
• Isolation
• Hopelessness
• Increases in anxiety or depressed mood
• Substance use
• Access to lethal means
• History of previous attempts
• Loss of a valued relationship, especially if the loss is due to suicide
• Relationships that are high in conflict or low in support
• Anticipation of harsh punishment, loss of status, or physical or mental deterioration
• Stigma associated with mental health and seeking help for emotional distress
Here are some startling statistics regarding mental health/suicide. In 2021, 10% of students in grades 9-12 reported they made at least one suicide attempt in the past 12 months. 45% of LGBTQ+ youth reported seriously considering attempting suicide in the past year. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people between the ages of 10 and 24.
What is 988?
The 988 lifeline was established to improve both the accessibility of crisis services and to meet the nation’s growing suicide and mental health-related crisis care needs.
What happens when I call 988?
When you call 988, you hear a message that provides several options. Your call is then routed to a local 988 Lifeline network crisis center based on your phone’s area code.
A trained crisis counselor answers the phone, listens to you, works to understand how your problem is affecting you, provides support, and shares resources if needed.
McKinley students manufactured new signage for the high school.
Robyn Adams - 30 years
Diana Biddle - 28 years
Ken Brunner - 30 years
Laura Campbell - 34 years
Diane Carson - 25 years
Kathy Davala - 34 years
Kimberle Fete - 29 years
Vicky Fiely - 36 years
Albert Flowers - 33 years
Holly Flowers - 24 years
Margaret Gallagher - 26 years
Michelle Gump-Wilson - 34 years
Lisa Hart - 3 years
John Huntsman - 17 years
Penni Jones - 33 years
Kelly Kamerer - 33 years
Sherri Kitzmiller - 11 years
Kathryn Lacefield - 35 years
Clifford Lee - 20 years
Jacqualine Leisure - 35 years
Sue Luther - 35 years
Terra Mann - 35 years
Brigid Manning - 29 years
Bridgett Means - 31 years
Marie Nearhood - 32 years
Paula Pedrotty - 37 years
Nancy Prete - 23 years
Tracey Psaris - 36 years
Karen Ritschard - 23 years
2024 Retirees!
Kathryn Rodriguez - 22 years
New Leadership Roles for 2024-25
Superintendent Jeff Talbert announced several administrative and leadership changes for the upcoming school year. following the retirement
Tracy Sallie - 26 years
Gary Shier - 19 years
Jeanne Spall - 25 years
Lynda Temsic - 22 years
Michelle Wagler - 33 years
Lois Wantz - 25 years
Fred Weibel - 31 years
Demaree Welch - 35 years
Larry Wyant - 10 years
Alan Ziegelhofer - 13 years
Leading the Bulldogs
new Principal at Arts Academy. new dean at the Arts Academy at Summit.
new Principal at the Compton Learning Center following the closing of the Bulldog Virtual Academy.
~John F. Kennedy
“Change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past and present are certain to miss the future.”
Jeanie Bowling is the new principal at McGregor.
21st Century Community Learning Centers Activities
Summer enrichment is educational and fun!
By Dana Reinhart and Charla Malone, coordinators
The district’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) offered enrichment through its Summer Learning Camps at Gibbs Elementary, Harter Elementary, STEAMM Academy @ Hartford, and the Downtown Campus, June 3 to July 3. Camps included students from various buildings.
Academic and project-based learning from certified teachers took place in the mornings with Scholastic Lit Camp, Math Scholars, Math Boot Camp, Sustained Silent Reading, and College & Career Readiness.
Enrichment and youth development took place in the afternoons. There were a variety of hands-on and engaging activities from our community partners, such as Dash robots, library activities, art classes, golf simulations, fishing, swimming, and science experiments. Students attended field trips to the Canton Ballet, Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland, Akron Zoo, Cedar Point, Tuscora Park, YMCA, and skate and bowling centers.
Thank you to members of our community who once again partnered with us this summer!
TomTod Ideas
One BYTE at a Time
Guys with Ties & Girls with Pearls Stark Library Akron Zoo
En-Rich-Ment
OSU Extension
She Elevates
Eric Snow YMCA
Mad Science of Northeast Ohio
Glazed & Amused
Wilderness Center
MentorStark
PBS 360 Camp-in-a Box
C.T. Branin Natatorium
Top left: College & Career Readiness was the focus downtown. Bottom left: Sam Slovisky of the Ohio State Extension works with students at Harter. Right: Students enjoy an afternoon at the Natatorium.
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District Brings Back The Bulldog Games After a 10-Year Hiatus
pass, wiffle ball, golf, and corn hole. Other activities included “touch-atruck,” where students could get inside vehicles from the Canton Fire Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, and others. The dance station, sensory area, and face painting were popular areas, as well. Hot dogs and hamburgers were provided by our Nutrition Department and Kona Ice was on hand for a refreshing treat.
Over 70 McKinley and Early College students volunteered to support each station.
To make this event successful, a donation committee reached out to various community partners and businesses and the support was overwhelming. This allowed each child to receive a t-shirt, medal, snack, and necessary materials at each station.
The ARTS In Review
Arts Academy @ Summit has a big year!
By Ben Myers & Jennifer Crone, teachers
The Arts Academy @ Summit continued its traditional arts-based curriculum while adding new and rewarding activities throughout the school year. Here are some of the projects of the 2023-24 school year:
Modern Renaissance
With the help of community partners, the Modern Renaissance Student Showcase at Summit Arts Academy brought a cultural rebirth to our students. At this showcase, all of the fine arts areas were represented as students experienced the arts community present at Canton’s First Friday. The arts in our school and the city help create smarter kids, new workplace opportunities, and healthier communities. Students who participate in the arts are more likely to be recognized for academic achievement and recognized for positive school attendance.
When the Arts Academy students display how their cultures (school & home) impact the artistic decision-making process, they can express themselves in a healthy manner while giving back to their community through their art. These young artists became entrepreneurs through the display and discussion of their artwork. Eli Sumner, a student involved in Modern Renaissance, was selected to submit artwork to the National Youth Media Arts Exhibition (NYMAEX). The NYMAEX is a national exhibition for student media arts productions across all forms and educational categories to display their work digitally and be recognized for their studies in the Media Arts field. Eli submitted a video game designed and coded to NYMAEX 2024. This self-initiated project was guided by a hands-off approach relying solely on essential questions. We are proud to say that Eli Sumner’s Media Arts piece was accepted into the 2024 NYMAEX!
Upstairs Gallery Space and Legacy Bricks
A new gallery space is being added to the second floor of the Arts Academy. In this area, student artwork will be selected by a committee as a permanent display for the school. One work will be added each year to allow the opportunity for numerous generations of student artists to participate in the gallery space. While the gallery tracks were being installed, 6th-grade intensive arts students started to work on their legacy bricks. These bricks are located inside the Art Room and are to represent the student’s time at Arts Academy. This is the students’ chance to leave their mark on the school and encourage others to embrace the arts. The students paint on the bricks whatever is meaningful to them or involve their best memories of being an art student at Arts Academy.
Media Arts
Media Arts is a relatively new course that stems from early digital arts and is now being offered in Ohio at K-12 levels of Visual Arts education through the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. Learning Standards of Fine Arts: Media Arts (2023), is a set of new standards resulting from the growth of digital arts during the evolution of the technological era. This places Media Arts in line with other visual art forms that use technology as a resource in the production or implementation of the artwork.
The fifth-grade intensive arts class participated in Media Arts projects this past year. These projects encompassed Media Arts’ innate ability to teach a comprehensive range of 21st-century skill sets and competencies.
Talent Show
Arts Academy at Summit hosted its much-anticipated Annual Talent Show, filling the auditorium with excitement, laughter, and applause. The event showcased the diverse talents of students from all grades, making it a memorable afternoon for all. This opportunity is an incredible way to see the kids express themselves and support each other. Individual and group performances helped students build confidence in their onstage presence.
Musical solos, original piano selections, original ballet choreography, tap dance, hip-hop dance, drums, and gymnastics were all part of this year’s talent show lineup.
Musical 2025
Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? SpongeBob SquarePants! Arts Academy at Summit has announced next year’s performance of “SpongeBob the Musical.” The announcement took place following the annual talent show during the last week of school. With this, Arts Academy will be looking for water based household paints to create the underwater scenes of SpongeBob’s home, Bikini Bottom. If you have any old or leftover paints, consider donating them to the Arts Academy musical in August.
Community Service Projects
Arts Academy Students participated in various service projects
throughout this school year. We hosted a food drive to support Refuge of Hope and the Empty Bowls Project. The grade level collecting the most items received an extra recess. Fifth-grade students won that opportunity. Plastic recycling continued this year and we were able to collect over 1000 pounds and will
receive a free Trex composite bench for our school. This is the third year of this program.
On the morning of May 22, selected 5-6 grade students joined veterans to place hundreds of American Flags at the grave sites of our Stark County Veterans at North Lawn and Forest Hill Cemeteries on Cleveland
The Empty Bowls Project benefited Refuge of Hope.
Fifth and sixth-graders helped decorate the graves of local veterans with new American flags for Memorial Day. Mrs. Crone, Mrs. Smith and the kids and other volunteers had lunch at the American Legion with local veterans later that day.
NYMAEX is a national exhibition for student media arts productions across all forms and educational categories.
Avenue NW. Following this chaperoned event, we were invited to the American Legion Hall, VFW Post 44 on Cleveland Ave, NW for a luncheon. This event has been memorable for our Canton City students for the past 22 years, with Arts Academy participating for the last three. We hope to continue this tradition with honor for many years to come.
Displaced Doors for Displaced People: Raising awareness for homelessness throughout the state Displaced doors are being installed throughout the Canton area! Displaced Doors for Displaced People is an Art Initiative started by Ben Myers and Errick Freeman to shed light on the issue of homelessness and raise awareness in support of those affected in your community. Small doors made by Arts Academy at Summit students are hidden out in the community. These doors are accompanied by QR codes that link to creative projects that students
Belle Stone 3rd-Graders Have Gone Fishin’
Looking forward to summer fun!
By Amy Konigsberger, Principal
Years ago, when Custodian Dave Salyers was in elementary school, each student was given a fishing pole. Mr. Dave recalls the excitement of taking his pole to a lake near his aunt and uncle’s house and going fishing.
“Being the youngest of 7, I made do with everyone’s well-used ‘hand-me-downs.’ It was great getting a brand new pole of my very own!” he said.
When Mr. Salyers began working at Belle Stone this year, he was disappointed to hear that fishing pole distribution is no longer a common practice. He started sharing his story and asking around hoping to provide this rewarding experience to the students he sees each day. Through the Stark County Federation of Conservation Clubs and The Berkley Fishing Club, Mr. Dave secured a donation of a brand-new fishing pole for every 3rd-grade student at his school.
On May 21, 2024, Belle Stone hosted a Third Grade ‘Send-Off’ Assembly. The students performed a music program and were awarded for Attendance, Citizenship, and Academic Achievement. After the Awards Ceremony, each student was given a Zepco Fishing Rod. Mr. and Mrs. Salyers were present
to hand out the fishing poles and experience the students’ excitement firsthand!
Kamdyn Dishong says he looks forward to using his new pole on a camping trip this summer. Ga’Myia Jones says she has never been fishing before and can’t wait to try it! London Tucker took his pole to Nimisilla Park and went fishing with his family. He said his dad put a “little metal fish with a hook” on the line and then London caught two fish. He took his fish off the hook himself! London said it was a great day and he can’t wait to go again.
All of these students expressed their gratitude to Mr. Dave for making these experiences possible.
The fishing pole that Dave Salyers received from school decades ago inspired a lifelong hobby bringing him joy, peace, and adventure. And now, through his generosity, he is providing opportunities that could inspire a similar passion rippling into future generations.
made that raise awareness and share local resources to help those in need.
Reflection
Arts Academy at Summit has a comprehensive elective and core curriculum, passionate educators, inclusivity, interdisciplinary integration, community engagement, and performance opportunities that focus on creativity and critical thinking. These elements work together to create an enriching environment in and outside of the school building that not only nurtures artistic talent but also contributes to the overall development of students. Arts Academy at Summit helps cultivate creativity and critical thinking by encouraging students to take risks, experiment with new ideas/ methods, and develop their own artistic voices in all aspects of their education. This process of exploration and reflection is essential for personal and artistic growth. The arts don’t just enrich our culture and schools, they enhance our lives!
Eli Sumner”s Media Arts piece was accepted into the 2024 NYMAEX!
Top: Ke’Shon Dawkins can’t wait to try out his new pole!
Left: Liam Secrest, Caleb Frasher, and Sherrod Farrakhan with their new fishing poles.
Powering Down: District Will Go “Phone Free” This Fall
The goal: Less distractions for all
By Lisa Reicosky, CCSD Communications
The 2024-25 school year will be free from cell phone distractions as the district focuses on policy enforcement.
Beginning on the first day of classes, the district plans to actively enforce the current policy that restricts the use of cell phones during the school day.
In recent years, students have been permitted to use their devices between classes and at lunch; now, they will be limited to before and after school.
The Board of Education is expected to approve the purchase of Yondr pouches at its July meeting (after our press deadline) to assist with this effort.
Middle and high school students will be required to store their phones in the Yondr Pouches, which are secure, locked bags for mobile devices. The pouch is school property and is considered on loan to the student during the school year. Students will be responsible for bringing the pouch to and from school each day and keeping them in good condition.
Upon entering the building, each student’s phone will be placed inside the Yondr Pouch and locked, but students will maintain pos-
session of the phone at all times. Phones will be unlocked at the end of the school day as students exit the building.
Elementary students will not use Yondr Pouches and will continue to keep their phones powered off and stored in backpacks, bookbags, or cubbies.
Superintendent Jeff Talbert said our goal is to reduce distractions in the classroom.
“This is a necessary step towards more engaged learning, fewer disciplinary actions, and less stress and anxiety for both students and staff,” he said.
Talbert referred to research regarding cellphones, social media, and mental health.
“It tells us that cell phones are not only a distraction, but data also proves that social media harms our students’ social and emotional safety,” he said.
All school districts in Ohio must have a cell phone policy in place by 2025 due to a new law signed by Governor Mike DeWine in May. Canton City’s policy, already adopted, will add earphones and Smart Watches to items no longer permitted in school.
The policy includes exceptions for students who require a cell phone to monitor a health concern or for student learning as determined by school officials.
Talbert said that a recent survey of parents showed a majority agreed that cellphones are a distraction in the classroom, however, some parents worry they won’t be able to reach their children in an emergency.
He said this concern, while valid, will not be an issue.
“Office personnel will relay emergency messages to students when needed,” he said.
The policy enforcement, he said, will be an adjustment to some, but “the benefit of a better learning environment far outweighs any inconvenience. We look forward to more engaged learners, reduced online bullying, and improved mental health for all.”
“Those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.”
~George Bernard Shaw
Students will place their phones in Yondr bags upon entering school.
McKinley Music Tech Teacher Shares Research at a National Conference
Returns with inspiring lessons for fall!
Brian Laakso, Music Technology teacher at McKinley High School and doctoral student at Kent State University, recently was invited to present some of his research at the International Association for the Study of Popular Music (IASPM) conference in Philadelphia, PA. The IASPM conference is a gathering of academics, college professors, and researchers who present their work on the study of popular music. Laakso joined over 100 professionals from around the world who shared their knowledge at the conference.
Laakso gave a presentation entitled “Elite Musicianship: How Extreme Metal Musicians Create Their Craft.” His paper was a research study on extreme heavy metal music, in cooperation with his former student Charlie Winters (McKinley ‘15), who is the drummer for the band Inoculation.
Although not operating within mainstream musical channels, Laakso says Winters is an extremely talented musician, which led Laakso to focus his research on the musical endeavors of Inoculation. The type of music Inoculation performs is not typically taught in schools. Additionally, Inoculation’s music is highly complex, extremely technical, very fast, and extraordinarily difficult to play. Little is written or known about how metal musicians like Winters and his band learn and work with each other to create music. To find out how they make such complicated music together, Laakso interviewed the band, attended a rehearsal and performance, and conducted research into extreme metal music.
Findings from the study uncovered that Winters and his bandmates relied primarily on watching each other perform to create music. Winters explained that he learned to become a fast drummer by watching others behind
the kit — specifically YouTube videos of professionals, including jazz drummer Buddy Rich. When Winter’s band played together, they recorded themselves on video and watched it play back, they invented names for riffs and wrote them down on a whiteboard for visual reference, and they used a layering technique to collectively create their music. Rather than reading lines of sheet music like traditional musicians, instead, they watched each other play their instruments and learned to play from sight.
In addition to presenting his work at the conference, Laakso also attended many other sessions on popular music that will impact how he teaches in the classroom.
One presentation was on the use of artificial intelligence in music, where research found that listeners don’t mind if music is created by AI, as long as the nature of its use is disclosed, and the musician’s input is understood. Laakso says that AI is becoming a more frequent topic of discussion in his classes, and in the future, he can ask students questions such as “Will we be listening to music made by AI in the future?” and “Is it OK for AI to replace professional musicians?”
A session on how immigrants listen to popular music from their homeland for comfort also inspired Laakso.
“We have many students from other countries at McKinley,” Laakso said, “Allowing them to listen to and analyze their own favorite music is an important part of healing the discomforts they may feel while living in a new country.”
Other relevant sessions to his teaching centered on the rap group De La Soul and their influence on underground rap music through their use of sampling, a
forum on Lil Nas X and how he is expanding the definition of what hip hop is, plus his use of music, social media, and video is actively creating discussion surrounding LGBTQ rights, and the financialization of the music industry.
“This was the single most engaging and intriguing conference I have ever attended. I was surrounded by dozens of academics who were extremely intelligent. I
learned a lot from them, and I can apply what I learned to my everyday classes at McKinley. Learning more about hip hop, pop, and rock music helps me to become a better teacher for my students, who learn to make popular music in all my classes. This conference will make an impact on my students as they learn about popular music in the future.”
Congratulations to
This year 445 students were awarded their diplomas on a picturesque evening at Tom Benson Stadium. This year’s ceremony included McKinley, Choices, and Bulldog Virtual Academy students. Among the speakers were Superintendent Jeff Talbert, Principal Sean Stranger, and Senior Class
the Class of 2024!
President Angel Thompson. The staff speaker, voted on by the senior class, was Ken Brunner, retiring principal of the Early College program. His seniors earned 54 associate’s degrees and the Class of 2024 has earned over $700,000 in scholarships and grants to date.
Congratulations to
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the Class of 2024!
Jaamid Abdullaah
Gianna Adams
Angie Aguilar Aguirre
Julissa Aguilar Martinez
Maha Alanazi
Kacey Allard
Abigail Allen
Maria Alonzo Hernandez
Olivia Altland
Heidi Amaya Dubon
Gloria Amaya Vasquez
Carter Anderson
Jordan Anderson
Aaliyah Anthony
Stefan Anthony
Andrew Aquino
Kendall Armstrong
Orlando Arthur
Andrea Backus
Robert Bair III
Ashleigh Baker
Indica Balutowski
Ignacio Bargas Raymundo
Jared Barker
James Barnes
Craig Bederman Jr.
Laron Bell
Anya Benison
Kay’aina Bennett
Ma’Kia Bennett
Jocelynn Benson
Kaden Billman
Nicole Black
Rhyanah Blakely
Robbaniquea Blakely
Jaleah Blile
Isaiah Boles
Andrew Bonam
Mi’Shell Booth
Belinda Border
Latavius Bouyer Jr.
Chey’Tajah Bradford
Jason Bradley Jr.
William Brady
Brooklynn Brady
La’Niya Brewer
Ajah Brewster
JaNyah Britt
Juliana Brooks
Mollee Brothers
Ja’Nyssa Brown
Destiny Brown
Orion Brown
Savannah Brunner
Nathan Bryant
X’Zavion Bryant
Jada Buchanan
Brooklynn Burkey
Baylee Burns
Maliyah Burton
Thomas Burton Jr.
Analyssa Butler
Seth Butts
Keyera Cagle
Nathan Caldwell
Nicolas Calel Hernandez
Katelynn Calhoun
Aleja Calloway
Isaiah Campbell
Aaliyah Camper
Adriel Canales Betancourt
Mara Cantera
Hunter Casto
Grant Cavalier
John Chance
Maurissa Chandler
Trinity Chapman
Emily Chasteen
Gabriel Chavers II
Angelly Chavez Hernandez
Jayla Chester
Lizbeth Cisneros Cal-
deron
Anthony Clarke II
Paris Clay
Crispin Cleveland
Jamikia Clifford Smith
Fredy Coc Chen
Jersey Cody
Ian Cohen
Patience Coleman
Allah Coleman
Tayvis Coney
Kiera Conner
Elijah Conner
Avonte Cooks
Nathaniel Cooper
Michael Coreano Rivera
Pheobe Coss
Cherish Covington
Autumn Cox
Gracie Cribbs
Derick Criss
Samuel Cruz III
Brooklyn Cundiff
Justyce Daniels
Jordan Davis
Nyah Davis
Emoni Davis
Kevin Dawkins Jr.
Javontae’ Dawson
Marcel DeCost
Carter Demetro
Alex Dexter
Daniel Diaz
Jacey Dixon
Hannah Dramble
Steven Drivas II
Amari Ducksworth
Sonjaiah Dunbar
Camiya Easter
Kaidun Eckenrode
Kae’lub Edwards
Jai’Zon Edwards
Ernest Edwards
Adena Edwards
Khamry Ellis
James Engel
Josiah Evans
Kayla Evans
Devonte Everett
Noah Everett
Nyla Everett
Destinee Everett
Elliot Everman
Andrew Fawver
Dayor Ferguson
Trey Fohner
Deon Fontes
Bria Fontes
Tenia Ford
Meikeilio Fortner
Hunter Fortune
Kenneth Foster
Braylan Foster
Kylonee Foster
Jayden Fouty
Jacqueline Fox
Taleaha Fraser
Malachi Frazier
Michael Freeman
Cantrelle Freeman
Kassandra Gailey
Mareus Gardner
Zene’a Gearheart
Hunter Gearling
Kaleela Gessel
Kylie Gibson
Klara Gibson
Araya Gibson
Robert Gilger III
Yeralyz Gonzalez Vazquez
Ni’kylah Goodwin
Jerrell Gordon
Cherish Gordon
Jerionna Gordon
Elyjah Gourick
Allea Graves
Zentavious Green
D’Mya Gulley
Miracle Gutscher
Reilly Haddad
Jonah Haines
Zavier Hall
Rylan Hand
Jae’von Harris
Don’Tarius Harrison
Maddison Hartman
Shaukeer Hatcher
KyShawn Hawkins
Jaylan Heard
Aaryanna Henderson
Mardell Henderson Jr.
Angel Hernandez
Jekson Hernandez Mejia
Shawn Hewitt
Ja’Lynn Hill
Nahje’ Hill-Adkins
Emya Hillery
Hunter Himebaugh
Taylor Hinkle
Keianna Holcombe
Da’Koda Holloway
Aaron Honabarger Jr.
Camryn Hood
Dominic Hooven
Ta’Lisa Howard
Daniel Howell Jr.
Daryion Hunter
Jayvonte Huth
Kevin Iverson
Kayla Ixos
Ja’Diss Jackson
Deavion Jackson
Eileena Jackson
Kanye Jackson
Jeremiah James
Rhiannon James
Michael James III
Josiah Jefferson
Mia Francesca Jenkins
Iyana Jeter
T’Kaiyah Johnson
Trystian Johnson
Cayden Johnson
Alana Johnson
Patrick Jokela
Larnell Jones
Secora Jones
Zyair’e Jones
Aniya Jones
Nevaeh Jones
Owen Karl
Geno Kelley III
Desarae Kelly
Jakaih Kelly
Alexya Kemp
Danielle Ketler
Taylon Kifutu
Ricardo Kim
Bryanna King
Logan King
De’Angelo King-Ryan
Champ Knox
Hannah Kokensparger
Jaydon Kravitz
Nyalah Kurnava
Tony Lambert III
Tyler Leary
Melissa Leech
Joshua Lindeman
Andrew Lint
Jeison Lopez Diaz
Yesenia Lopez Lopez
Kenna Loukas
Ian Lubbers
Jae’Shawn Lytle
Rebeka Mach
Mekhi Mack
Juan Maldonado Rojop
Abigail Maley
Hannah Marino
Aden Marks
Ja’Nia Martin
JaCiande’ Martin
Itzel Martinez
Hedman Martinez Perez
Brooke Mathias
Edward Mathie
Nevaiah Mayle
Lakota Mayle
Shawnnessy McCallin
Matthew McCarthy
Ja’Taiya McClain
Kahmyia McCollum
Jalen McCullough
Gerrin McCune
Kevin McLendon Jr.
Mario Mejia-Hernandez III
Neyli Mendoza Martinez
Dakota Menjivar
Kevin Metz
Devin Metz
Ramello Midgett
Quinn Milton
Braylon Minor
Andrea Mitchell
Hailiana Moen
Austyn Montana
Zi’ere Montgomery
Je’Cis Moody
Evelyn Moorehead-Kramer
Cameron Morton
Ruby Mount
Lacy Mowery
Christina Moyers-Chavez
Elise Mugnaini
Luke Mullins
Dazire Nash
Cadence Neal
Ray Newman Jr.
Jaleah Nickson
Shane Louis Niez
John Noel
Carmen Ollison
Eric Orr
Ethan Orr
Dawuh Orr
Juan Osorio Rodriguez Jr.
Montez Owens
Sara Palmer
Ozzie Palomba
Brianna Parsons
Jimmy Parsons
Elizabeth Pastor-Hernandez
Kahleel Patterson
Stone Patterson
Jer’Myra Patterson
Jerry Patterson Jr.
Nevaeh Paul
Katelynn Peavy
Luis Pelico Ajanel
Victoria Perdue
Isabel Perez
Selvin Perez Roblero
McKenzie Peterman
Breanna Peterson
Nataleigh Phillips
Kiarra Pineda
Shawn Pirolozzi
Briasia Porter
De’asia Porter
Joseph Presutti III
Lilly Price
Abigail Price
Nhyon Pryor
Jharya Pullin
Dylan Purdy
Marlon Quintero
Sophia Radosevic
Maria Ramirez-DePasquale
Makayla Randall
Kadyn Reed
Markell Reese
Justin Reese
Karla Reese
Dae’Shawn Reeves
Theodore Reid
Hailey Reid
Amy Reynoso-Solis
Rakeen Richardson
Rahmel Riggs
Emun Rivers-Norwood
Nadia Robinson
Zi’ona Robinson
Keaton Rode
Shalay Rodgers
Alex Rogers
Kristen Rosenow
Noah Rosier
Amani Ross
Keaira Rucker
Marla Sanchez
Ja’mia Sanders
Cody Schillinger
Nathaniel Scott
Savannah Scott
Michael Selick
Morgan Serafini
Jayla Shaarda
Zachary Sikon
Aaleayah Sisson
Kailee Slater
Justin Slentz
Gage Slinger
Andrew Smith
Ce’Vion Smith
Niaemah Smith
Charlize Smith
Ciara Smith
Ka’sarra Smith
Scarlet Smith
Kendell Smitherman
Terry Smothers Jr
Toby Snyder
Fernando Sosa
Adrian Spencer
Jordan Stembridge
Marcus Stevenson
Amir Stewart
Alaya Still
Alexander Storesina
Madison Stout
Hayden Stovall
Alani Strader
Maleihya Streeter
Karyssa Strobel
Trinity Stubbs
Sandra Sweet
Kaylee Taylor
Jo’Vaughn Taylor
Lakeia Taylor
Cincere Terry
Angel Thompson
Matthew Thompson
Makahia Thompson
Tyron Thornsley
Eliza Tickhill
Charles Tipton
Christopher Tipton II
Na’Maya Toles
Seniia Trammell
Christian Trice
Brian Tronco Escobar
Tyra Tuck
Aris Tucker
Wil’Veon Turner
Jari Ullah
Alexander Vazquez
Lynsis Velasquez
Madison Villa
Franco Virola
Dominick Votaw
Tavion Walker
Alonis Walker
Jayden Walker
Jayden Wallace
Ileyah Walls
Austin Ward-Medina
Santacruz
Austin Ware
Evan Warrick
Nicholas Washington
Giovanni Washington
Nicole Washington
Za’Riyah Watson
Marcel Watts
Ciarra Weaver
Savannah Weaver
Jayden Webster
Benjamin Wells
Max Wendling
Katelyn Wessel
Conner Whaley
Adrian Wicker
Kaylie Wiggins
Kyla Wilder
Savian Wilkins
Sebastian Wilkins
Adam Willaman Jr.
Keolani Williams
Ethan Williams
De’lmon Williams
Jasmine Williams
Troyonah Williams
Lai’Zani Williams
Le’Von Williams
Noelani Williams
Tia-Lynn Williams
Riley Willis
Brooke Wilson
Ariq Wilson
Katie Wilson
Malaki Wood
Chance Wright
DaLaysia Zimmerman
That’s a Wrap
Here’s a summary of the year at ECMS
By Troy Russell, Principal
This year has been filled with learning, growth, and countless memorable moments.
Academic Achievements
Our students have excelled academically, with many surpassing their personal goals and excelling in their studies. We are proud of the hard work and dedication each student has shown. Special congratulations to those students who participated in the Stark County
Math Tournament, Writing Rocks, and the Academic Challenge Team, bringing home several awards and honors.
Extracurricular Success
Beyond the classroom, our students have thrived in various extracurricular activities. A number of our students were a part of the undefeated boy’s basketball team, as well as a number of district and state track qualifiers. Our sports
teams have had fantastic seasons. A special thank you and shout out as Mrs. Dubinsky and a number of our 7th-9th graders put on an outstanding production of Little Mermaid Jr. showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of our students. We are looking forward to next year’s musical already.
Community Involvement
This year, our students participated in several community service pro-
jects such as TomTod, and Stark County Minority Business Association Youth Entrepreneur Program, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact. Our student council and CAST ran several food drives and volunteered at Stark County Food Bank. Our students have shown kindness and generosity, embodying the spirit of community service.
Learning Beyond the Classroom At McGregor
Field trips offer enriched learning
Julie Addessi, Principal
In a world where traditional classroom learning often dominates educational methods, the importance of field trips in fostering experiential learning cannot be overstated. Research increasingly supports the idea that educational field trips significantly enrich students’ understanding of academic subjects and improve their social skills, creativity, and overall engagement with learning.
McGregor Sixth Graders Explored the Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland this past May. The trip gave students an immersive experience, blending science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
Highlights of the Trip
• Interactive Exhibits: The students engaged with various exhibits, including the NASA Glenn Visitor Center, which features authentic space artifacts and interactive displays about space exploration. This exposure to real-world applications of science and engineering principles captivated the students’ imaginations and provided practical insights into potential STEM careers.
• Hands-On Learning: In the Science Phenomena exhibits, students could conduct experiments and see science in action. Activities like creating magnetic fields and understanding fluid dynamics through water exhibits encouraged critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Virtual Reality Experiences: The center’s state-of-the-art virtual reality (VR) stations allowed students to experience the depths of the Great Lakes and explore underwater ecosystems. This cutting-edge technology offered a unique perspective on environmental science, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural habitats.
• Workshops and Demonstrations: McGregor students participated in interactive workshops where they learned about renewable energy sources and different states of matter. These sessions reinforced their classroom learning and ignited a passion for innovation and scientific inquiry.
Looking Ahead: More Field Trips in Education
Educational field trips like the one to the Great Lakes Science Center enhance students’ learning
experiences. By bridging classroom learning with real-world applications, these trips reinforce academic concepts and inspire a lifelong passion for discovery and learning.
Eighth-grade students enjoyed a trip to Washington D.C.
Get a Jump On Your Child’s Education
Partners enrich our school day
By Linnea Olbon, Director of Early Education
It was such a fun year, had by all, in the Preschool World!
Since brain development is at its highest rate during the preschool years, the preschool team witnessed immense growth in the learning and development of our 3-5-year-olds. The proof is in the data we collect all year long! Many of these students will move on to Kindergarten for the 2024-25 school year, and we wish them all well! We want to give a shout-out to all our Community Partners who help make our program one of the best and most sought-after preschool programs in Stark County:
• Akron Zoo/PNC Foundation: Students learn early literacy and social-emotional skills through classroom visits, including live animals, provided by educational specialists at the Akron Zoo. A culminating field trip, to the Akron Zoo, is held at the end of the year for students and families. This opportunity is graciously funded by the PNC Foundation.
• Artful Living and Learning (ALL): ALL engages preschoolers in the arts of dance, drama, music, and visual.
• C&A and CommQuest: These organizations help provide preventative mental health services.
• Feed Kids First: FKF provides funding to operate the Food
Pantry where close to 2,000 visits were made during the 202324 school year.
• SPARK (Supporting Partnerships to Assure Ready Kids): Once or twice a month, the SPARK family meets with their assigned home visitor, called a parent partner. The parent partner helps the parent engage the child in a lesson developed around state standards and designed to provide a school readiness advantage. The Parent Partners also come to the Center to provide services.
• Stark Library: The Bookmobile visits the Center throughout the year, where stories are read and students access the books on the Bookmobile!
If you have a child who is 3 or 4 years old, and does not turn 5 before September 30th, registration is now open and it is online. Just visit our district website (ccsdistrict.org), click on Registration, and follow the instructions. Our program is a “high quality” preschool program that helps prepare students for Kindergarten, and the years to come, through a safe, interactive, engaging, and fun learning environment. We do fill up quickly, so be sure to register soon. We are waiting for you! Call 330-580-3033 for more information.
Choices Team Presents at The Ohio Personalized Learning Network
By Christen Sedmock, Director of Alternative Education
A team from Choices High School made up of Principal Bobbie Grimm and teachers Joy Buxton and Karen Zutali presented at the Ohio Personalized Learning Network at Ohio State University. The Team presented “Competency-Based Education in the Personalized Learning Style.”
Choices participated in a cohort during the 2023-2024 school year, supported by Knowledge Works and the Summit County ESC. Personalized Learning is a learner-driven approach to education that empowers students to take ownership of their learning.
Choices participated with various schools across Ohio that engaged in the Launch Pathway professional learning cohort that introduced them to personalized learning strategies. Choices has embraced the strategies and is applying them to its program to enhance student pathways and opportunities. Their work is helping to improve student attendance, engagement, and graduation rates.
Competency-Based Education Team: Bobbie Grimm, Joy Buxton, Karen Zutali.
Clarendon Fine Art Festival Was a Big Success!
By Jenae Stephens, Principal
Our scholars worked on the artwork, step performance, and choir show throughout the school year. Art teacher Brittany O’Hara and music teacher Jacqueline Oliveri put on a phenomenal display of student artwork and musical selections.
“It’s not about standing still and becoming safe.If anybody wants to keep creating they have to be about change.”
~ Miles Davis
Students Showcase Year-Long Problem Based Learning Projects and Entertain Families
by Dr. Bernetta Harrell-Snell, Technology teacher
STEAMM Academy @ Hartford’s Annual Spring Showcase was an event to remember on Thursday, May 18, 2024. The focus for this year’s Spring Showcase came through 8th grade science teacher, McKenzie Harder and 7th grade English language arts teacher, Chelsi Moir.
Last summer, the two teachers participated in the STEM Teacher Academy, a collaboration between Ohio STEM Learning Network and the United States Navy’s Submarine Industrial Base. Through their unique experience in the program, an essential question to focus students’ learning and the theme was born!
All students and teachers in grades 4 through 8 were required to examine ways that they could develop a better understanding of marine life and the effects of human exploration Under the Sea. Students researched the importance and challenges of the marine ecosystem and analyzed the impact of human activities on marine life. To deepen students’ understanding of the need for a call-to-action, they explored various organizations that are working on the preservation of marine life and to clean bodies of water across the world.
The first portion of the evening gave students an opportunity to share their solutions and products with their families and our community. The second portion was all about entertaining our community. Fifth grade teach-
er, Vanessa Board, has wanted to provide a way for students at STEAMM Academy @ Hartford to tap into the performance arts for quite a while.
“Our Lip Sync battle was our foray into the world of performance arts. We wanted to see if our students would enjoy this other form of art for the “A” in STEAMM. Based on their efforts and the audience’s reaction to the show, I would say it was a solid indicator that our STEAMM students are definitely hooked on the idea of another Lip Sync battle or STEAMM musical.”
The Lip Sync Battle brought students and staff together in a very entertaining, unique, and engaging way while the audience enjoyed dinner prepared and served by Culinary Arts teacher, Lisa Krieger’s seventh and eighth grade students. Calypso music was provided by music teacher David Singhaus’s Steel Band students who played the steel drums. It was a wonderful evening for everyone!
A Heartfelt Thank You From the Patrick School Family
Thank You to Our Generous Community Supporters & Patrick Lit on the Lawn Program
By Nikki Bush, Principal
The Patrick School family would like to express our gratitude to the individuals who have supported us through donations. Pastor Oliver Campbell and his wife First Lady Deshawna Cambell donated clothes, gloves, and hats to our scholars. This donation has provided our scholars with some of their essential needs, so that they are able to learn.
Sam and Joanne Malene and Asia Smith of Synchrony Financial donated books to our scholars. The books that they have donated have become part of our school library. The recent donations to our school have made a significant impact on our ability to continue engaging students in culturally relevant literature. The book donations from both
parties will help us with our book giveaway this summer during our Lit on the Lawn initiative that is sponsored by Leila Green Alliance of Black School Educators, Patrick Elementary School, and United Way. We look forward to engaging our scholars in the joy of reading through literature circles, guest readers, and fun games to enhance social skills, and literacy. We also look forward to partnering with our parents in order to strengthen school and home literacy connections.
The Lit on the Lawn Program will be on Tuesdays in July from 12:302:30. We hope to see our scholars and parents there! We will continue the program quarterly throughout the school year. More details will be coming soon.
Students Play Calypso on Steel Drums
Research on the sea floor.
Sam and Joanne Malene with the Patrick team.
Harter School - Today’s Readers - Tomorrow’s Leaders!
By Kathy Kisha-Wise, Principal
Harter Students continue to grow their reading skills by…READING!
The Superintendent’s Reading Challenge kicks off our monthly reading challenge in October. Harter students continue to accept the monthly reading challenge for the rest of the year. Kindergarten students, who are just learning pre-reading skills, start by accepting the challenge to practice their letters. Once letters are mastered, they focus on the sounds that letters make. As Kindergarteners learn words and sentences, they shift their challenge to reading!
First through third-graders embrace their love of reading by accepting the challenge to read for a specific number of monthly minutes. First-graders are challenged to read 300 minutes in a month. Second-graders’ goal is 400 minutes in a month, while third-graders look to accomplish 500 minutes per month.
While Harter students grow in many areas throughout the year, this challenge continues to be accepted by more and more students each year! Students who accept the challenge are recog-
Cedar Math Superheroes!
Families enjoy math-themed evening
By Ronda Tomovcik, Principal & Missy Leininger, Assistant Principal
Did you know that math speed drills, the rote memorization of math facts, and flashcards are unproductive practices in developing fact fluency? Recent brain research has shown that our working memory has a limited capacity, therefore, we must teach our children how to utilize math strategies and critical thinking skills.
With this knowledge, the Cedar staff hosted a Superhero-Themed Math Family Night on April 4. Families learned how to support their children’s math development at home by playing games and a superhero cinch bag full of math-related books and materials. Some of the math activities families engaged in included:
• Multiply Your Powers - Roll two dice and add or multiply using a “bottoms up” Hundred’s cart.
• Super Subitizing - Families were provided with a deck of subitizing cards that included images of tally marks, dominos, hands/fingers, base tens blocks, tens frames, and unifix cubes. Subitizing is the ability to quickly and accurately judge the number of items in a small set without counting. Families use the subitizing cards for many different skill development.
• Kryptonite Keeper - Families used problem-solving skills to create 3D shapes with marshmallows and toothpicks to contain the kryptonite and keep the superheroes safe.
• MultiVerse Top-It - Each family received a deck of cards where each player laid down a card and the card with the greater value wins.
• Secret Identity - This partner activity used a hundred’s chart and two dice. Each person rolled the dice to create a two-digit number, covering the number with a button on the hundreds chart, adding on to the number each time and moving their button until 100 is reached.
Each family received three maththemed Books; “Spaghetti and Meatballs for All” written by Marilyn Burns, “Count Fish” by Rebecca Tree, and “7 Ate 9” by Tara Lazer. Students also created a personalized superhero mask, and demonstrated their super agility skills on an obstacle course, earning a “power ring” at the end. They ended the night with superhero-themed healthy refreshments. It was a a great night for all of the Cedar Math Superheros.
nized at our monthly grade level recognition. They receive a food certificate and gold coin to be used in our Bulldog Book Vending Machine!
As most Bulldogs take a break from being in school for the summer, remember to set aside a little time each day to enjoy an adventure by reading!
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Mr. DeComo’s class, one of the classes that had 100% of the students accept the 1st Grade Reading Challenge on a regular basis!
Science Fair at AIM Academy
First Friday event brings families together
By Kara Rankin, principal
In June, AIM Academy celebrated First Friday and invited families to its first Science Fair.
The idea of the science fair was to encourage students to explore a scientific topic in a way that makes it interesting for them. Students researched a topic, conducted experiments, and created presentations for our families to view during First Friday.
Kindergarten learned about Living and Nonliving things. They went outside and took a living/nonliving walk. They took pictures of examples with the iPad and came back in and wrote about one example of living and nonliving.
First-grade students in Miss Fabich’s and Miss Mountain’s classes learned about the three phases of matter — solids, liquids, and gasses — by using ice cream! Miss Fabich’s class made root beer floats, and Miss Mountain’s class made homemade ice cream in a bag. Both classes were able to then taste their science experiments!
Second-grade students in Mrs. Bickel and Mrs. Gerber’s classes learned about force and motion through a roller coaster design challenge! Students learned from a civil engineer about the design process and then worked together to build a rollercoaster that was thrilling, appealing, and safe! They tested out their coasters and discussed what they would do differently to change their design.
Third-grade students in Ms. Long’s science classes conducted an experiment to test which brand of gum would have the longest lasting flavor. The students used Bazooka, Double Bubble, Extra and Ice Breaker. Using the the Scientific Method, they developed a hypothesis, tested how long the flavor lasted for the different gum, recorded the data, and wrote a conclusion.
The fourth-grade students conducted two science projects. The first was to see if losing two of our senses would influence our ability to differentiate between the taste of sweet, salty and sour. In two different tests. The first was losing their sense of sight and smell and the second their sense of sight only. It was concluded that losing these two different senses did not impact their ability to taste.
The second project was Geometrocity, a project based learning opportunity where students became architects by designing and building their own city. Each student had to prove they were a qualified architect by completing multiple phases that included submitting vocab and visuals as permits, designing blueprints, constructing their city and building it up using nets to make their 3D buildings. When each architect was done designing their city, they all came together to create one large county!
The fifth-grade students were curious to find out what the most common color of Skittles is and how many Skittles were in a regular pack. So each student was given a pack and they all separated their colors and counted individually and then collectively gathered their data to make their discovery. This helped students go through the scientific method, create bar graphs, work as a group, gather data, realize flaws that can occur while gathering data, and discover the answer to a question they have always wanted to know (It was yellow and a median of 60 in a pack if you were also curious!).
The sixth-grade students tested three different popcorn brands for taste, price, percent of kernels popped, and nutritional values. The students all taste-tested each brand of popcorn and submitted their votes. They also counted how many kernels popped per bag compared to how many did not pop and calculated the percent of kernels that popped. Students used their math skills to calculate the cost of each brand per ounce and displayed the nutritional facts for each brand. Through research, students found fun facts about popcorn and added those facts to the display board. ACT II was the overall winner, beating Orville Redenbacher by a narrow margin.
AIM’s Science Fairs presented a learning opportunity for the entire family. Each family left with a “Summer Science” bag with a book, “Awesome Outdoor Science Experiments for Kids,” and items to conduct a variety of outdoor science experiments. We look forward to seeing all of the Science learning taking place this summer.
“The reward of the young scientist is the emotional thrill of being the first person in the history of the world to see something or to understand something.Nothing can compare with that experience.”
~Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin
Top: Javiona Miner and Treyson Benson with their Summer Science Bag. Left: Adriel Moore and his mom checking out 1st Grade’s science presentation.
Below: 4th Grade’s Geometrocity.
A Game To Remember
Worley basketball assembly brings cheers
By Jacinta Decker, Dean of Students
Worley’s Staff Versus Student basketball game is a huge event that the whole building awaits at the end of the school year. The event brings the school community together where students and faculty members participate in a friendly and competitive basketball game. Both the students and the staff were able to showcase their skills while having a lot of fun as the spectators cheered vibrantly in the stands.
During the lively competition, you could feel the excitement and school spirit. The gymnasium was filled with cheers, laughs, roars and overall pure fun. Both sides of the team showed their teamwork as they made their shots in the basket. One could definitely see some bragging rights going on as the two teams battled it out on the court. Worley’s staff members were able to play and interact with the students in a competitive spirit that allowed for a true and positive school spirit to foster.
The Staff Versus Student basketball game is more than just a sporting event. It is part of Worley’s Monthly PBIS Rewards that the school holds each month. PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support Program. Each month, the school comes together to have an event that supports a positive school climate and culture.
Worley staff and students believe in building a strong sense of community and allowing for time to foster positive behaviors and relationships. Over the course of the school year, Worley students and staff have had different events from dance parties, assemblies, skate parties, Knockout games and more. Overall, the staff won the basketball game, however, it was a WIN for everyone as the many smiles and overall joy were the final score on both sides.
Youtz Students Sending Smiles and Encouragement
Divas focus on kindness
By Monica Black, Dean of Students
Youtz DIVA Girls Leadership had a Penny War and learned to crochet scrubbies from Heather Adams, which they sold to raise money for their yearly service project. The theme this year was “How to give back to the community, showing empathy and kindness.”
The girls overwhelmingly voted to send smiles and encouragement to children in the hospital by way of Fun Activity Baskets. They put together over 45 Fun Activity Baskets for children in the hospital. The baskets were distributed to Aultman Hospital, Mercy Medical Hospital, and Akron Children’s Hospital. Each basket had a blanket and cup in them along with various fun items like puzzles, books, yoyo, coloring and sticker books, stuffed animals, cars, etc. In the words of the girls, “We hope we can make them feel happy and stay strong through their sickness until they get well.“
The DIVA Girls Leadership would like to say thank you to our Principal Brennen Endres for making this project possible. He has always been 100 percent supportive of all the projects and programs they have done over the years. Whatever the students wanted to do he was encouraging and helpful.
Thank you for your leadership. The DIVA Girls Leadership group was headed and developed by fifth-grade teacher, Dr. Geneva Parker.
Top: Retiring music teacher Al Flowers and Dean of Students Jacinta Decker pretend to throw a bucket of water on the crowd.
Right: The student team cheers after a great play.
Top: Core Sub Heather Adams teaching crochet.
Left: Divas Madelyn Blanc and Serenity Ryder putting the baskets together.
Congratulations ACTE Graduates!
They’re prepared for in-demand careers!
The District congratulates the Class of 2024 from our Adult Community Education programs! The commencement ceremony, held on June 18 at Umstattd Hall, recognized the Ohio High School Equivalence Diploma graduates, and the ACTE graduates from Welding, Medical Insurance and Coding, Medical Assistant, and Practical Nurse programs.
Football - Varsity
Friday August 30 @ Avon
6 CASS TECH (MI)
13
Boys Soccer
/Title Time
Thursday August 22 @ Carrollton
Tuesday August 27 PERRY
Thursday August 29 MINERVA 5:00 PM
Tuesday September 3 @ Green 7:00 PM
Thursday September 5 ALLIANCE 5:00 PM
Tuesday September 10 @ Central Catholic 7:00 PM
Thursday September 12 WEST HOLMES 5:00 PM
Saturday September 14 @ Ravenna 11:00 AM
Tuesday September 17 HOOVER 5:00 PM
Thursday September 19 SANDY VALLEY 5:00 PM
Tuesday September 24 @ Lake 7:00 PM
Wednesday September 25 @ Akron Firestone TBD
Thursday September 26 WATERLOO
Boys Golf
Tuesday July 30 @ Akron Firestone
Friday August 2 AKRON FIRESTONE/
CANTON SOUTH
Tuesday August 6 @ Pre-Season FL Tourn. Tannehauf
Wednesday August 7 @ Northwest Invite Lyons Den 10:00 AM
Thursday August 8 @ Hoover Arrowhead 12:00 PM
Friday August 9 @ Marlington Invite Tannehauf TBD
Thursday August 15 PERRY Spring Valley 12:00 PM
Wednesday August 21 @ Lake Sable Creek 1:00 PM
Thursday August 22 @ Green Prestwick 3:30 PM
Thursday August 29 @ Massillon Legends 2:30 PM
Tuesday September 3 @ Hoban Invitational Portage CC 12:30 PM
Monday September 9 @ Jackson Shady Hollow 3:15 PM
Wednesday September 11 @ GlenOak Arrowhead 1:30 PM
Thursday September 19 MASSILLON Spring Valley 2:30 PM
Monday September 23 @ FL Tournament Tannehauf 11:30 AM
Friday September 27 @ Sectional Tournament Tannehauf TBD
Saturday September 28 @ Stark Co Championship Glenmoor 1:30 PM
Cross Country
September 3
Smithie Invite
Saturday September 7 @ Dover Invite
Saturday September 21 @ Malone Invite
Saturday October 5 @ Tuslaw Invite
Saturday October 19 @ Districts @ GlenOak
for the 2nd straight year, the Bulldogs finished with an overall record of 13-7 and a 2nd place finish in the Northeast Tennis (NET) Conference.
This year’s team fielded its largest and most competitive roster in my 10-year tenure as coach of the boys’ team. With a roster of 20 players and many of them having accumulated experience over the past few years, we were able to arrange an abbreviated 2nd Varsity schedule with the hopes of expanding this schedule next season. Graduating only two seniors and with continued improvement throughout the off-season, next year’s season looks to be very exciting. Individual honors include the following:
Elijah Corrin: 1st Team Federal League, 1st Team All-County, 1st Team NET
Asher Diuk: 2nd Team All County, 1st Team NET
Noah Shaheen and Brady Tolin (doubles team): Honorable Mention All County, 1st Team NET
Henry Snyder: 1st Team NET
Elijah Corrin
Girls Volleyball - Varsity
Saturday August 17 @ Akron Firestone Tri 9:00 AM
Tuesday August 20 LOUISVILLE 5:30 PM
Wednesday August 21 CANTON SOUTH 5:30 PM
Tuesday August 27 WILLOUGHBY SOUTH 5:30 PM
Thursday August 29
Tuesday September 3
September 5
September 9
September 10 @ Lake
Thursday September 12 HOOVER
Girls Soccer
PM Monday September 16 @ Alliance
PM
September 17 @ Jackson 5:30 PM
Saturday September 21 @ St. Vincent-St. Mary 12:30 PM
Tuesday September 24 @ Perry 5:30 PM
Wednesday September 25 WARREN HARDING 5:30 PM
Thursday September 26 @ GlenOak 5:30 PM
October 1
Girls Softball
By Bryan Fowler, Head Coach
It was an interesting season thanks to Mother Nature and the endless weeks of rain. As a result we were 11 games short of a full schedule and were held to primarily playing games in the league. The girls battled every game and improved as the season went on.
Bray’Aunna Ruffin
Academically we set new standards for the softball program moving forward holding a team GPA of 3.47. This included 13 athletes with over 3.5 GPA and 6 athletes over 4.0. We handed out 3 Federal League Scholar-Athlete Awards, 4 Northeast District Scholar-Athlete Awards, and 4 All-State Scholar-Athlete Awards. Four of our athletes were in the National Honor Society and 2 athletes are class officers.
Bray’Aunna Ruffin was awarded Federal League Honorable Mention and NorthEast District Honorable Mention recognition.
Editor’s note: Head Coach Bryan Fowler was named Federal League Coach of the Year.
Girls Track and Field
By Rahman Stokes, Head Coach
The girls’ track team competed hard this season to work our way to the State Championships. Alexys Sterling was a state qualifier in the 4x200 relay and Long Jump. She made the podium and placed 8th overall in the Long Jump which granted her All-Ohio honors. Also qualifying in the 4x200 meter relay were Allea Graves, Amariona Marshall, SaRae Johnson, Sa’Nyah Gammon, Shamiya Hubbard, and Robbaniquea Blakely. All members of the relay team contributed their speed throughout the season and the state qualifying process.
Girls Golf
August 5
August 9
August 14
September 9 @ Jackson Shady
Sports Wrap-Up
Sports Wrap-Up
Puppy Love At Gibbs
Students enjoy reading to this loveable
By Erika Irwin, Principal
Gibbs Elementary students have had the opportunity to read aloud to Clearance this year. Clearance is a certified therapy dog with all of the proper requirements to be in a school setting.
Dog owner Nancy Miller is a local educator with a heart for dogs, students, and reading! She comes weekly to read with Gibbs students. We had an assembly with each grade to introduce Nancy and Clearance. Nancy shared the story with students about how Clearance came into her life and how she loves bringing him to school to promote her love of reading.
Each week our students are selected to read a book or a reading passage to Clearance. The pup has use of his own office area when he is at Gibbs so that students have a quiet and comfortable space to read. Our reading teachers at Gibbs use the 95% Phonics program and have been trained in the LETRS program. According to 95% Phonics: Phonics proficiency is a critical building block for overall reading fluency, the ability to read with accuracy, appropriate rate, and expression.
pup
Reading to Clearance supports the curriculum goal of reading fluently and is a fun experience for students. Nancy lets each reader choose a book to take home after their reading session. She even puts a label in the book stating it is from Clearance. Our students are so excited when he comes in the door every week. We are very thankful for such a wonderful community partnership with Nancy and Clearance.
Above: Aylin Juarez-Hernandez Left: Nancy Miller, Sa’mia Alexander, Maddalynn Hall