Northeast Ohio Parent - Education Guide - September 2019

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EDUCATION Guide Opening the Door to Learning & Beyond

Teen Breakfasts Gear Up for School with Avocado, Spinach, Nuts & More: Why Breakfast Matters

Boo-Boos Fixed

Role of School Nurses

Pick Your Music

Instruments to Play

College Plans

SPONSORED BY

Consider Tech Careers Education Guide 2019

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Education Guide 2019

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EDUCATION Guide

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NO CHIPS FOR BREAKFAST! A tasty guide to getting your child out the door with a quick, nutritious start to the day.

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BEYOND 4-YEAR COLLEGE Learn the current demand for technical jobs and how two-year colleges can benefit kids considering these careers.

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SCHOOL PROFILES Take a more in-depth look at several schools in the region with these detailed fact sheets.

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✱ Visit NortheastOhioParent.com to find more school information.

SCHOOL NURSE Learn the role of today’s school nurses, including the best paths of communication.

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Open e Hous s g n i list 2 pg. 2 on

INSTRUMENT GUIDE If your music-loving child is interested in band or choir, check out this rundown of available instruments to help them decide.

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PRESCHOOL Find out 25 ways to help your preschooler learn throughout the first year of school.

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SPECIAL NEEDS

There are different strategies to address behaviors; find out what parents can do to advocate for children with special needs.

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EDUCATION NEWS Noteworthy happenings at area schools.

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OPEN HOUSES Attend these events throughout the region to learn more about potential schools for your child’s next educational step.

Sponsored by

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PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE

Inside the

CVCAROYALS.ORG

MORE THAN AN EDUCATION At Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy, we place a premium value on the middle school years and view them as a trajectory for high school.

We have a uniquely intentional approach to the specific needs of middle school students and provide a safe environment where they thrive academically, socially, physically, and spiritually.

CVCA is a 6th to 12th grade college-prep middle and high school committed to academic excellence in a supportive, distinctively Christian environment.

Our biblically-integrated curriculum is delivered by a dedicated faculty serving students from seven counties on a 70-acre campus in Cuyahoga Falls.

With more than $1.3 million given in financial assistance this year, a CVCA education is more affordable than you may think.

Come see all the ways CVCA offers more than an education and how our students strive to EXCEL STILL MORE.

COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE

OCTOBER 18, 5:00-7:00 P.M. REGISTER AT CVCAROYALS.ORG

Check out cvcaroyals.org for Prospective Education Guide 2019 | 5 Family Meetings offered throughout the year.

ask the School

NURSE By Michelle Dickstein

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K

ids spend the majority of their time in the classroom. How does their time in school change if they have a chronic medical condition, like asthma, or need unanticipated medical care? Decades ago, schools would simply hand out ice packs and send kids back to class. Thankfully, inschool medical care has advanced well beyond the occasional ice and Band-Aid. Michele Wilmoth, director of nursing, School Health Services at Akron Children’s Hospital, shares more here.

What is School Nursing?

School Nursing is a nursing specialty practice requiring additional licensure and certification.

“We provide medication and resources, and function as the bridge between the health care provider, school and home. We are there to support the whole child and family,” Wilmoth says. “School nurses provide a wide range of day-to-day management of health needs so students can stay in school, healthy and ready to learn.”

School health includes first aid, illness assessment and triage, as well as assisting students with chronic health conditions like diabetes, asthma and seizure disorders.

Why School Nursing is Important Surprisingly, having a registered nurse to serve a school is not always guaranteed. However, research shows a link between student health outcomes and greater academic success.

Interestingly, school nurses often are the first to identify an emerging health issue for students. Since school health providers are in the same setting as children for eight or more hours a day, they have front line access to observing children’s health.

“Over the years we have made several great catches for students and refer students to primary and specialty practice providers,” Wilmoth says. “As a result of our astute assessment and triage, and referral, we have had students return back to school with diagnosed diabetes, asthma or underlying heart conditions. It is quite common for the school nurse to detect an infection or skin rash that needs further attention.

“The school nurse is often the first to assess a student with an issue. We help the family recognize the need for further evaluation, which can lead to a diagnosis and treatment plan,” she continues. “The number of children with complex chronic health conditions continues to rise. On average, 2-3 students in every classroom have asthma.”

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Care for the Whole Child School nurses are able to provide information and education on a large variety of health topics like handwashing, ADHD, medications in the school setting, suicide prevention, self-injurious behavior, communicable disease and bloodborne pathogen training, head trauma and many others.

Sadly, more than 25 percent of American youth are likely to experience a serious traumatic event by age 16, and many children suffer multiple and repeated traumas.

Examples of common sources of trauma are abuse and neglect; foster care placement; parent incarceration; divorce; bullying; serious accidental injury; experiencing or witnessing violence in neighborhoods, schools and homes; homelessness; and treatment for life-threatening illness. As expected, a traumatic event can seriously interrupt the school routine and the processes of teaching and learning. A student who has experienced psychological trauma may have increased difficulties concentrating and learning at school and may engage in unusually reckless or aggressive behavior, potentially impacting academic performance.

To help with the potential effects of trauma, school nurses provide support to help students grow both emotionally and physically in order to manage traumatic events.

For more back-to-school health articles, visit

NortheastOhioParent.com 8 | Education Guide 2019

Connect with the School Nurse Students most often seek out care from the school nurse themselves, but Wilmoth encourages parents to “get to know who their child’s school nurse is, particularly if their child has a chronic health issue. The school nurse is there to help; teachers and parents can and do refer to the school nurse if something is just not right and (a student) needs extra support related to a health issue.”

If parents have a health concern for their child, Wilmoth advises the best way to communicate this to the school is by returning completed back-to-school forms with any medical issues included.

“Call the school; ask for the school nurse to discuss any issues or concerns,” adds Wilmoth.

The future of school nursing will include recognizing the important connection between health and learning.

“Students and schools need a school nurse,” Wilmoth says. “If children aren’t healthy, they can’t learn. I often describe it in terms of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs: children who don’t have basic needs met — food, clothing, shelter, health — will never reach the top of the pyramid, (which is) their academic potential. We are there to partner with the school, to provide wrap-around support for students and families so all children have the ability to reach their academic potential.”

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If children aren’t healthy, they can’t learn.

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— Michele Wilmoth, director of nursing, School Health Services at Akron Children’s Hospital

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GUIDE hen the sounds of music start humming in your child’s life, there are many choices of instruments to consider: brass instruments, woodwind instruments, string instruments, and the percussion family.

While some instruments may have physical and cost considerations, children often will gravitate toward an instrument by using their senses. An instrument’s look, feel or even sound may be the first attraction to trying it. Allowing your child to try out various instruments will help them decide what feels and sounds right to them — in addition to considering the other requirements of a musical instrument as noted below.

Mark Michelson, of Arrowhead Music in Mentor, Justin McElravy, from Peter Zaret & Sons Violins in Mayfield Heights, and Joe Gambitta, of Joe’s Music in Willoughby, help us break down each instrument.

By Laura T. Kramer

BRASS FAMILY PHYSICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Trombone weight: 6-10 pounds Case: 5 pounds (approximately). Larger and obscure shape.

Longer arms help maneuver the moving slide piece Arms need to be held up when playing Vibrating feeling from mouthpiece may make lips tingle Braces may make it more difficult or uncomfortable Fuller lip muscles make it easier to play MAINTENANCE • Wipe mouthpiece after playing, clean mouthpiece weekly, bathe instrument 1-2 times a year, depending on usage amount • Cleaning Items: snake, mouthpiece brush, slide lubricant, slide grease, cloth

COST • Instrument pricing varies depending on brand and whether you buy new or used • Renting from a music store: $20 and up/month* • Cleaning set: $20

✳✳

✳ WOODWIND FAMILY

• Some of the most famous trombone players were left-handed • Italian translation meaning “large trumpet”

PHYSICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Flute weight: 1-1.5 pounds Case: less than 1 pound, small and light Arms need to be held up horizontally to the side when playing MAINTENANCE • Weekly cleaning of the keys and monthly checks of screws. • Wipe down after each use.

• Cleaning items: lint-free cloth and cleaning rod, silk swabs or drawstring cloth, key oil

COST • Instrument pricing varies depending on brand and whether you buy new or used • Renting from a music store: $20 and up/month*

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• Flutes have been made out of bone, wood and metal

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• Only instrument in the woodwind family that doesn’t use a reed

*Rental prices vary

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BRASS FAMILY PHYSICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Trumpet weight: 5 pounds Case: 3-5 pounds, rectangle in size Arms need to be held up when playing Vibrating feeling from mouthpiece may make lips tingle Braces may make it more difficult or uncomfortable Fuller lip muscles make it easier to play MAINTENANCE • Wipe mouthpiece after playing and clean weekly.

• Clean full instrument monthly • Cleaning items: snake, mouthpiece brush, valve lubricant, cloth

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COST • Instrument pricing varies depending on brand and whether you buy new or used • Renting from a music store: $20 and up/month*

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• Historically been used as signaling devices in battle or hunting

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WOODWIND FAMILY, USES A SINGLE REED FOR THE MOUTHPIECE PHYSICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Saxophone weight: 4-11 pounds, depending on the type Case: 3-5 pounds, depending on material Easier to learn than the clarinet

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COST • Instrument pricing varies depending on brand and whether you buy new or used • Renting from a music store: $30 and up/month* • Reed cost: three for $9.

Price varies on quality of reed

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MAINTENANCE • Wipe down after each use, wipe down reed to get rid of moisture, run cloth through body • Cleaning items: interior cloth, mouthpiece brush, swabs for keys

• It is the only brass woodwind • Most commonly used saxophones: soprano, alto, tenor and bass. The most popular are the alto and tenor • A saxophone can be used in classical music, military bands, marching bands, jazz and contemporary music. It's occasionally used in orchestras.

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• The clarinet was the last

Clarinet weight: 2 pounds Case: 3-4 pounds Works well for children with small hands

COST • Instrument pricing varies depending on brand and whether you buy new or used • Renting from a music store: $20 and up/month* • Reed cost: three for $9.

Price varies on quality of reed

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MAINTENANCE • Wipe down reed to get rid of moisture and remove from mouthpiece, run cloth through body, dry mouthpiece • Cleaning items: interior cloth, mouthpiece brush, cork grease, swabs for keys, key oil

• Clarinet means “little trumpet”

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PHYSICAL CONSIDERATIONS

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instrument to be included in a symphony orchestra

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WOODWIND FAMILY, USES A SINGLE REED FOR THE MOUTHPIECE

Percussion family is the largest, oldest and most diverse family of musical instruments PERCUSSION FAMILY

*Rental prices vary

Consists of snare drum or practice pad and bells for elementary students.

Older students also will learn bass drum, cymbals, and several other small percussion instruments.

PHYSICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Set: 20 pounds approximately with case, rather large and difficult to travel with. Only travel with the instrument you are learning at the time.

Standing while playing MAINTENANCE • Wipe down stand and bells with glass cleaner, use damp cloth to wipe off drum or practice pad.

• Check screws for tightening.

KINDERMUSIK DANCE ART MUSIC LESSONS

216.991.1063 Beachwood | OH

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COST • Instrument pricing varies depending on brand and whether you buy new or used • Renting from a music store: $20 and up/month* • Extra drumsticks: $10; bell mallets: $12

Popular shows like “The Voice,” “America’s Got Talent” and “American Idol” have entertained and introduced us to the power and excitement of a person’s vocal ability. The voice is another powerful instrument that students can choose to explore through their school choir or singing group if they do not want to play a physical instrument.

While there is no transporting a case, singers must still take care of their voice and practice as with any other instrument. Singing within your range and singing from your diaphragm are important tools to learn.

“Staying well rested, having good posture, warming up your vocal cords, and having a glass of water nearby are all important to becoming a better singer,” advises Joe Gambitta.

ENROLL NOW Let creative expression thrive and see what’s possible at our Ohio City and University Circle campuses today!

STRING FAMILY

It is suggested to begin the string instrument at a young age.

PHYSICAL CONSIDERATIONS

McElravy says you have to feel comfortable when you play. The string instrument requires maneuvering a bow across strings and is played by the different hand positions. “The violin is the star, (many) composers write the music for the violin,s high pitch,” McElravy says. “The violin is built on tradition. It,s a fantastic discipline.”

MAINTENANCE • Mcelravy says there isn't a lot of maintenance, as student instruments are built to take a beating since students tend to be rough on their instruments.

COST • Instrument pricing varies depending on brand and whether you buy new or used • Renting from a music store: average $25/month*

✳ • Antonio Stradivari is a famous violin maker and many have tried to copy his craftsmanship.

There are legends about his varnish, such as mixing it with crushed bugs to get the right shades.

*Rental prices vary

Center for Music

• Private and small-group lessons • Ensemble opportunities in classical, chamber music, adult orchestra, youth pops orchestra, flute choirs, adult guitar, percussion, brass and much more

Center for Early Childhood

• Half-day Preschool, year-round Day School and Full-day Kindergarten serving children 3-6 years • Arts for the Young introductory music programming • ArtsNPlay inclusion programming

Center for Music Therapy

• Individual and group sessions • Providing best-practice techniques to address social, communicative, developmental and psychological objectives

www.TheMusicSettlement.org/all OHIO CITY: 2610 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113 • (216) 377-1952 ext. 5100 UNIVERSITY CIRCLE: 11125 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland, OH 44106 • (216) 421-5806

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St. Hilary School

The Future Begins Here

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Leading the way to the future through faith and service, traditional and innovative teaching methods, cutting-edge science and technology facilities and equipment, three foreign languages, career exploration courses, enrichment and extracurricular opportunities, and much more

Serving a range of learners in grades K-8 Over $150,000 in tuition assistance awarded annually 529 plan funds may potentially be used toward tuition

Comprehensive Preparation for a Complex World 645 Moorfield Road, Fairlawn | 330-867-8720, ext. 343 | st-hilaryschool.org

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no chips for

breakfast Does your teen skip breakfast or hit the school’s vending machine?

Have them start their day off right with these healthy options.

Story, recipes & photography by JEN PICCIANO

I know it’s easy to sleepwalk through breakfast, especially for busy moms or teenagers. But c’mon, people. With a little planning — and very little effort — you can have a power-packed breakfast, full of “good brain food” and superfoods.

Natalie Borrell, high school psychologist and founder of Life Success for Teens, says it is important to start the day with a nutritious option for several reasons. “It provides energy, improves your ability to concentrate, has a positive impact on your mood, and encourages lifelong healthy habits,” she says.

She adds that it’s not uncommon to see students with a large frozen Starbucks drink in hand, complete with whipped cream and even a caramel drizzle on top.

“If a student is consuming upwards of 50 grams of sugar in the morning (what you can easily find in a frozen coffee drink), they may have an initial burst of energy, but will find themselves drained of energy and cranky by lunch time,” Borrell says. “I often explain to students that they need to think of their body as a car and the food they put into their body like the gasoline.

Your car can’t run without gasoline, and it can’t run well if you put junk into the fuel tank.”

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n If your tee ffee o c rs o v fa this. drinks, try

Cinnamon Cocoa Overnight Oats

Looking for something “on the go” in place of Pop Tarts?

Try these:

Go bites These are portable and popable, perfect for the bus ride to school or the carpool.

Don’t make them too big, or they’ll melt in your hands. For an afternoon snack instead of breakfast, use trail mix instead of cereal.

SUPER FOODS: cranberries and almonds

1/2 C peanut butter, 1 T honey, plus granola, raisins, craisins, and leftover cereal.

My inspiration here are those “tall mocha, extra whip” type drinks with TONS of sugar and too much caffeine.

This recipe will fuel you just the same, and scratches that itch without all the unnecessary sugar.

SUPER FOOD: almonds

1/2 C rolled oats, 1 C almond milk, 1/2 tsp. cinnamon, 1 T cocoa mix, 1 T chopped almonds.

Combine all ingredients in a mason jar, stir.

Refrigerate overnight.

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Mix the peanut butter and honey, then freeze for about 20 minutes. Remove from freezer and roll into balls (a small spoonful each). Pop them back in the freezer for a few more minutes, as they’ll get warm from your hands. While those firm up, combine granola, raisins, craisins and any leftover cereal you’ve got in the house, like Cheerios, Rice Krispies, etc. Roll the peanut butter balls in the mixture to coat completely.

Refrigerate until you’re ready to eat.

BETTER BREAKFAST SNACKS “The worst breakfast I ever saw a student eat was a bag of Flamin' Hot Cheetos and a 2 liter of Mountain Dew,” Borrell says.

“I cringed looking at it.”

If your teen is a fiend for chips, no matter what the hour, consider Better than Good Snacks.

The local company produces protein puffs in four flavors: Ranch, Jalapeno Cheddar, Salted Caramel and Barbecue.

Each bag contains 16 grams of protein and two servings of fruit and vegetables. They’re also gluten-free, Non-GMO, nut-free and soy-free.

Strapped for time?

Put money in an account at school for a balanced breakfast.

Many schools participate in the National School Breakfast Program through USDA. A breakfast (about $2) includes an entree item, fruit/juice and milk.

For the thlete, student a try this:

avocado english muff in I will eat just about anything if it has avocado in it — but they’re not cheap. Adding cream cheese when you mash them will make them stretch, plus feed a couple teens, or yourself. And adding spinach will sneak in a vegetable serving before the bell rings.

SUPER FOODS: avocado and spinach

1 Whole Wheat English Muffin, 1 avocado, 1/2 C fresh spinach leaves (finely chopped), 1-2 T cream cheese, kosher salt to taste.

Toast the English muffin. Slice the avocado and remove the fruit.

Combine the avocado with the cream cheese, a pinch of salt and spinach. Spread over the muffin.

Jen Picciano is an Emmy winning reporter at WOIO-TV Cleveland 19 News, where she hosts a cooking segment, Cleveland Cooks. She also produces and hosts a weekly video podcast, Taste Buds, with local chefs Matt Mytro and David Kocab (available through WOIO), and appears on WQAL 104.1FM each week on “The Cleveland Feed,” to share the city’s latest food and dining news. She also is a regular contributor to the television station’s morning talk show, Sunny Side Up, and a special projects reporter there. In her “spare” time she writes a blog, Cheftovers, to showcase her clever use of leftovers and share her foodie adventures. She resides in Mayfield Heights with her husband and three daughters.

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MONTESSORI

25 Learning

SCHOOL OF

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS FOUNDED 1968

SActivities

ending your child to preschool is one of the first steps to starting their education. Ohio’s Early Learning & Development Standards, for children ages 3-5, focus on five domains: approaches toward learning; cognition and general knowledge; TO DO IN THE language and literacy; physical well-being and motor development; and social and emotional development.

FIRST YEAR

OF PRESCHOOL

By Angela Gartner

THREE YEAR PROGRAM BEGINNING AT AGE THREE

Sending your child to preschool is one of the first steps to starting their education.

Ohio’s Early Learning & Development Standards, for children ages 3-5, focus on five domains: approaches toward learning; cognition and general knowledge; language and literacy; physical well-being and motor development; and social and emotional development.

While your child’s new preschool teacher will be working on these standards in class, here are 25 things parents can do to help keep kids learning at home:

1. Read a book together every day.

14. Encourage technology-free,

imaginative play (example: a child imagines his two dinosaur toys are talking to each other).

2. Ask your child about the characters in the book.

3. Have your child learn a new

15. Create a family donation box where everyone contributes, then take a family trip to a donation center.

word every day.

CALL FOR A

PERSONAL TOUR

4. Talk about the meanings of

5. Provide two-step directions

6. Have them look in the mirror

216-381-8388 23599 CEDAR ROAD BEACHWOOD, OH

WWW.MS-UH.ORG “The most important period of life is not the age of university studies, but the first one, the period of birth to age six. For that is the time when man’s intelligence itself, his greatest implement, is being formed.”

-Dr. Maria Montessori

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different words.

(example: take off your boots and then put them by the door in the hallway). and describe their features and yours.

7. Play catch or kickball.

8. Draw letters in sand.

9. Make a necklace together.

10. Collect Fall leaves and identify

the colors.

11. Build things with age-

appropriate LEGO sets.

16. Build a snowman.

17. Put on a play.

18. Play with bubbles.

19. Visit a fire station.

20. Have your child select one

activity to do each week — and then do it.

21. Go exploring: learn about one

22. Complete an age-appropriate

23. Talk to your child about how

24. Create a memory game

12. Ask how the characters were feeling in a story you are reading.

13. Seek shapes — have your child identify all the shapes in the room.

topic by getting books, drawing pictures, investigating the topic and then making a collage. puzzle.

plants grow and then have them demonstrate with their body. together with favorite things.

25. Talk about what they want to

be when they grow up and then engage in pretend play.

Beyond

Technical certificates and two-year degrees provide many career opportunities

Four-Year College

By Shana O’Malley-Smith

I

f you have a high schooler at home, you’re probably starting to think about what comes next after graduation.

According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 70 percent of 2018 high school grads went on to pursue higher education at a college or university.

While some students can’t wait to leave home and pursue a degree at a traditional four-year university, many are choosing to stay at home and work toward a technical certificate or two-year associate’s degree.

BENEFITS OF TWO-YEAR COLLEGE

Students are opting for two-year colleges for a number of reasons. America’s student loan debt has climbed to $1.49 trillion, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and many students don’t want to carry the debt that often comes with a fouryear degree. Tuition is significantly cheaper at twoyear schools, while still providing a quality education to students.

According to CollegeBoard.com, the average tuition at a public two-year college for an in-state student is around $3,400 a year, compared to $9,400 a year for a public four-year college (not including room and board). Tuition at a private four-year college runs - CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 -

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around $32,400 a year.

Community colleges also have easier enrollment and offer flexible programs, so they’re accommodating to all types of learners.

“Students in the area can stay close by, maybe hold on to their part-time job and still live at home while paying low tuition,” explains Tracy Shook, director of marketing and communications at Lakeland Community College.

One of the biggest benefits of a two-year college is that it puts students on a fast track

to beginning their career. Students can earn a certificate within a few months or an associate’s degree within two years, putting them in the workforce in half the time of a traditional university.

WHAT’S AVAILABLE?

Local community colleges and technical schools are reporting steady enrollment with a high concentration in health care, information technology (IT), and business programs.

“With the number of health care institutions in the region, our health programs are

always some of the most popular,” Shook says. “The business areas, such as accounting, entrepreneurship and management, have also been popular. One newer area with increased market demand is cybersecurity. Lakeland has just implemented curriculum under the Information Technology and Computer Science department to include that field.”

Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) is seeing interest in similar programs.

“Health careers are always at the top of the list,” says Karen Miller, provost at Cuyahoga Community College. “Nursing and a variety of other health care programs are probably in the most demand. IT is also in demand right now. Coding is a big opportunity. They can do a 16-week program and move into really good paying jobs.”

As our everyday equipment gets “smarter,” the need for skilled technicians to maintain the technology is in high demand.

At Remington College’s Cleveland Campus, traditional trade programs such as facility maintenance and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) repair are popular among students who want to get to work quickly and have job security.

“These programs are fairly quick so you can get into your field, and the programs that we have are a necessity that a lot of people need,” explains Terhan Freeman, director of campus administration at Remington College. “If you look at HVAC, it’s in every single building and home, so that’s not going away anytime soon.”

Freeman adds that health programs such as medical assisting, physical therapy assistant, dental assistant and medical office administration also are popular programs.

The college also recently added a restaurant hospitality and retail management program.

JOB OUTLOOK

According to the latest Bureau of Labor statistics, the unemployment rate for “people with some college or an associate degree” was 3.5 percent in 2018.

Nanci Coleman, career placement specialist at Tri-C’s Career Center, says they work with an abundance of employers who are ready to hire.

“The field we place the students the most quickly is in IT,” Coleman says. “We have a lot of demand for IT students. We also have a high demand for business students, particularly the accounting students during tax season.”

She adds that they help place many students in internship programs, which allows

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both the student and the employer to see if it’s a good fit.

“A lot of students will seek out an internship before they graduate and then stay on with that company after they graduate and are hired on permanently,” Coleman adds.

“So it’s a win-win for everybody.”

Depending on the career path, students who obtain a certificate or associate’s degree can expect a starting salary of $35,000$50,000, according to Coleman.

IS THERE A NEED FOR THESE JOBS?

Among the top 20 fastest growing occupations in America, solar panel installers, wind turbine technicians, home health aides, physical therapy assistants and medical assistants round out the list and only require a certificate or associate’s degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.

In Ohio, health care employers dominate, with seven out of the top 10 employers in the state coming from that sector. The Cleveland Clinic is the state’s largest employer, with 50,829 employees, according to the - CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 -

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Ohio Development Services Agency’s 2019 Major Employers Report.

ATTRACTING STUDENTS

One way colleges are trying to attract students is by allowing them to begin classes while still in high school.

Most community colleges in the region, such as Lakeland Community College, Lorain County Community College, and Cuyahoga Community College, offer College Credit Plus programs that allow high

school students to enroll in college level classes and earn college credits that also can be put toward their high school graduation requirements. This allows students to see what programs are available and get a jump start on their career.

BUILDING A FOUNDATION

Not only does a certificate or two-year degree allow you to begin working in your career field, it also serves as an educational building block if you decide to advance

your degree.

“Because of the commitment we have at the state level to make sure that all public institutions use the same curriculum and have the same learning outcomes, we make sure that everything we do here can transfer,” Miller explains. “It’s a great place to start and save money and get the first two years of a four-year degree here.”

Many two-year colleges have partnerships with four-year universities, to make it easier for students to transfer the credits they earn if they decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

“In fact, many students pursuing a four-year degree start at Lakeland to complete general education classes that would cost them much more per credit hour at a four-year college or university,” explains Shook. “They then can transfer those credits to a four-year college. ”

Ê Compare Potential earnings

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ĂŠ

Bureau of Labor Statistics 2018 Data

A sample of careers you can obtain with a certificate or associate’s degree JOB / MEDIAN PAY / PROJECTED JOB GROWTH BETWEEN 2016-26 Solar Panel Installer, $42,000, projected to grow 105 percent

Surgical Technologists, $47,000, projected to grow 12 percent

Wind Turbine Technician, $54,000, projected to grow 96 percent

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers and Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians, $67,000, projected to grow 17 percent

Physical Therapist Assistant, $48,000, projected to grow 30 percent

HVAC Technician, $47,000, projected to grow 15 percent

Civil Engineering Technicians, $52,000, projected to grow 9 percent

Medical Assistant, $33,000, projected to grow 29 percent

Web Developer, $69,000, projected to grow 15 percent

Food Service Manager, $54,000, projected to grow 9 percent

Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides, $57,000, projected to grow 28 percent

Medical Records and Health Information Technicians, $40,000, projected to grow 13 percent

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians, $67,000, projected to grow 7 percent

Respiratory Therapist, $60,000, projected to grow 23 percent

Radiation Therapist, $82,000, projected to grow 13 percent

Drafter, $55,000, projected to grow 7 percent

Dental Hygienist, $74,000, projected to grow 20 percent

Radiologic and MRI Technologists, $61,000, projected to grow 13 percent

Dental Assistant, $38,000, projected to grow 19 percent

Computer Support Specialists, $53,000, projected to grow 11 percent

Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians, $64,000, projected to grow 2 percent

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Special

Alison Smith, of Westlake, shares her experience with her son.

“Jonathan is academically strong, but 95 percent of our focus is behavior management,” she says. “How do we get him to behave in a mainstream classroom to access his curriculum?”

Jonathan, who is autistic and has sensory processing and auditory processing disorder, can speak, but he is classified as noncommunicative.

“He struggles with expressing his wants, needs and emotions, but he can spit out facts,” Smith says.

Now a third grader, Jonathan has had a one-on-one aide since kindergarten.

“He benefited from peer models and specialized support in full-day preschool, and we had extinguished his significant behaviors by the end of pre-k,” Smith recalls. “However, we saw huge behaviors when he entered a mainstream kindergarten class.

Smith says she credits the growth and progress made (with her son who is autistic and attends an elementary school) to her "linchpin," a behavior specialist from the county who conducted a functional behavioral assessment (FBA) and remains involved in his behavior management, as well as partnerships with a supportive principal, teachers and aides.

“When he has behaviors, they are significant, but the team is able to stay in front of it with a rewards system so he is able to function,” she explains. “He can now go upwards of two to three weeks without tantrums.”

The behavior plan includes earned computer time, some edibles and four break cards given each morning that he can use throughout the day to regulate himself, but he must first finish the task at hand.

“Before the FBA was completed, every day at 1 p.m. Jonathan would have a meltdown, and the principal at the time would call me to ask what they could take away from him to get him to stop,” Smith recalls.

“The specialist discovered he was hungry.

Once he was given a second lunch, we all saw a different child. He is more secure in the environment because he knows he is getting what he needs. He can focus with his needs met.”

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NEEDS

Behavior Management in the Classroom: Strategies and Advocating for Your Child with Special Needs

C

By Lindsey Geiss

lassroom disruptions cost students and teachers valuable instructional time.

To address issues before they happen, public schools in Ohio are now required to adopt policies and procedures for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Schools utilizing this behavior management framework are seeing reduced rates of office discipline referrals, suspensions and expulsions.

We spoke with local experts about classroom strategies and how parents can advocate for their children; we also share one parent’s special education experience.

SCHOOL STRATEGIES AND PARENT SUPPORT

Christie Kimbler is a behavior and curriculum intervention specialist (BCIS) with the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities William Patrick Day Services Center. As a BCIS, she receives specialized training in the application of behavioral supports from the Institute for Applied Behavior Analysis. She also has a teaching license and experience in the classroom, so she is able to adapt curriculum, which sets a BCIS apart from board certified behavior analysts (BCBA).

Kimbler and other specialists work with public school district staff and parents to ensure students ages 3 through 22 who are board eligible succeed in a least restrictive environment. When schools do not have a behavior specialist or an independent evaluation is requested, they may be called in to conduct an FBA and offer other school or

in-home support.

“An FBA typically includes one or two days of observation and baseline data collection, followed by a team meeting with service providers, such as the speech therapist and occupational therapist,” Kimbler explains. “A true FBA looks at the whole picture – every environment and the curriculum. If behavior occurs across all settings, then it needs to be addressed in all settings to be completely extinguished. The FBA typically takes one behavior and breaks it down. For children who struggle all day long, I will observe throughout the day, conduct interviews and create a global educational planning document, or I may prepare both.”

Districts may write their behavior intervention plans from these reports and recommendations.

“Most of the time, people think behavior is one of four functions, but behavior is rarely driven by one function,” Kimbler asserts. “You have to address all the functions of behavior, including the sensory component. A thorough FBA identifies these functions and examines what happens before and after the behavior. To better address the behavior, understand where, when and why it is happening.

There is so much more to look at.

What is driving and sustaining it?”

WHAT IS PBIS?

PBIS is a prevention-oriented process focused on proactive teaching approaches and evidence-based interventions, rather than merely reacting to behavior. While PBIS originated in special education with language from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and it is based on principles of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), the National Education Association recognizes it as a general education initiative benefiting all students. PBIS has been shown to reduce problem behavior, increase academic performance, prevent bullying, improve social-emotional competence, improve classroom management practices and ensure student safety.

“There is tremendous momentum in Ohio around PBIS,” says Brittany Miracle, whole child program administrator for the Ohio Department of Education Office of Integrated Student Supports. “The

Department’s goal is to help schools create consistent and predictable learning environments that are safe and supportive for all students and staff.”

Emily Jordan, education program specialist for the Ohio Department of Education Office of Integrated Student Supports, describes PBIS as a threetiered continuum of support to meet the needs of all students: • Tier 1 sets 3-5 universal behavioral expectations for all students, teaching and reinforcing appropriate behavior.

• Tier 2 creates staff-student mentoring and small group skill development for at-risk students.

• Tier 3 conducts an FBA and establishes a behavior intervention plan (BIP) for individual high-risk students with identified problems.

“Parent and family engagement is a key component of PBIS,” adds Jordan.

“It is important for parents to be aware of the tiers of support, how to request services if their child needs additional supports, and how to work with the school to get those.”

The Ohio Department of Education works with 16 regional State Support Teams and 52 Educational Service Centers to assist with training and implementation of PBIS in schools. Schools take the framework, collect and process behavior data, then identify appropriate interventions and practices to meet their students’ specific needs.

The Ohio State Board of Education set a policy in 2013 for all school districts regarding the implementation of PBIS to prevent the use of restraint and seclusion.

Restraint is the “use of physical contact to immobilize a student,” while seclusion is defined as “the involuntary isolation of a student in a room, enclosure or space from which the student is prevented from leaving by physical restraint or by a closed door or other physical barrier.”

Guidelines state these “must be used as a last resort and only when there is an immediate risk of physical harm to the student or others and no other safe or effective intervention is possible.” Every use must be documented and reported.

Additionally, each district building receives training in crisis management and de-escalation techniques.

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENTS

“Behaviors happen because there is a lag or a lack of skills, so the child needs to be taught a replacement positive skill,” Kimbler explains. “While teaching a new skill, reinforce with something positive. I may schedule a reinforcer every few minutes to start, then once a skill is mastered, fade the reinforcer.”

Kimbler favors naturally occurring reinforcers: “If you love music, and it’s coming soon and your work is not done, naturally you do not go until it is done.”

When it comes to behavior management systems, Kimbler finds that most general education elementary classrooms use some of version of clipping up and down, a stoplight, or ClassDojo, an online tool where teachers assign positive or negative points to student profiles. Kimbler says that in general, it is a good idea, but you can turn it positive. She favors positive reinforcement over response cost (or negative punishment), which involves

taking Dojo points away or removing a preferred item for an undesirable behavior.

“For some children, that works as a self-monitor, but for others it is a source of anxiety. The system does not have to be the same for all children. Know your child, and ask if the system can be individualized,” Kimbler says. “In general education, children often do not get a reward until days later. Those who struggle need it sooner to reinforce positive behavior.”

Kimbler identified some common triggers and factors impacting behaviors: Unstructured times of the school day — recess, lunch, bus rides and specials like gym or music — are problematic for many children.

Is the work developmentally appropriate?

Is there too much or not enough? “One fifth grader was in and out of a general education classroom because of behaviors. It was found to be over this student’s head, but within a month of adapting the curriculum, the - CONTINUED ON PAGE 27 -

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Kimbler offers these strategies for use in school and at home to analyze, respond to and help prevent behaviors using a positive reinforcement model: TRACK THE ABCs OF BEHAVIOR

To recognize patterns of behavior, create a log with the day, time and ABC information: Antecedent — What was happening before the behavior? Where were you?

Behavior — What did the child do? Include duration, frequency and intensity.

Consequence — What did we do when the behavior occurred? What happened after?

USE POSITIVE LANGUAGE Be simple, concise, concrete and age-appropriate.

Tell the child what to do instead of what not to do. For example: “Please walk” vs. “No running” “Hands down,” “Body to self” or “Use your words” (and model appropriate language) vs. “Don’t hit” “Use a calm/inside voice” vs. “Stop yelling/whining”

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student’s behaviors were cut in half.”

Classroom environment and structure, including lighting, seating and having a defined space for the body are important.

Teachers or parents may ask, “What about the rest of the class?” Kimbler suggests having an honest conversation with students.

“Explain, ‘Everyone is working on something. You might be working on reading now, and this friend has challenges in math.

Won’t it be nice when this friend can join us?’ Keep it positive: ‘She is still learning, and that’s OK. You can be a really good friend by ignoring or getting up and moving.’ The children help monitor once they know the plan. This teaches children resiliency, acceptance and understanding.”

In her experience, Kimbler sees parents fall into one of two extremes: those who are afraid to advocate because they do not want to offend and make the district angry, or parents who have unrealistic expectations of their child and what free and appropriate public education (FAPE) looks like. She says, “It’s a difficult balance.”

She encourages teachers to give direction and hold the child accountable like everyone else. If multiple reminders or adaptations are needed, it is appropriate for the aide to step in.

Kimbler reminds parents and teachers that her involvement does not mean anyone did anything wrong. “I have the luxury of looking from the outside in,” she says. “The class approach just doesn’t match this child, so let’s see how to make it work together.”

HOW CAN I ADVOCATE FOR MY CHILD?

Attorney Linda Gorczynski, of Hickman & Lowder Co., L.P.A., says, “It’s important parents understand when restraint and seclusion are appropriate and allowed by the law and the difference between a physical escort and restraint. Prone restraint — pinning down with knees and use of pressure points, for example — is not permitted by law. If a district uses restraint and seclusion, staff must be appropriately trained and parents should receive notice.”

In 2018, Ohio enacted the Supporting Alternatives for Fair Education (SAFE) Act, House Bill 318, which is considered “one of the strongest state laws in the country to attempt to reduce disciplinary referrals, especially for prekindergarten through grade 3 students.” The bill requires each district in Ohio, including community schools, to provide PBIS training in preschool through third grade and sets parameters to limit suspensions and expulsions among young learners.

If any child with an IEP is being suspended or expelled, Gorczynski advises parents to be aware of a protection called a manifestation hearing. The district cannot remove a child from a setting for more than 10 days total without holding a meeting with parents present to determine if the behavior that led to the discipline was a result of the disability, or it is considered a change of placement. The school must have an FBA and behavior plan in place.

“If the school does not do this, a parent should request it,” Gorczynski explains.

“Sometimes students are not officially suspended; they have in-school suspensions, are sent home a lot, or put into the principal’s office. Keep track, add up that time out of class, and request a meeting.

Parents also have a right to inquire about the qualifications of the person conducting the FBA or request an independent third-party

FOUR FUNCTIONS OF BEHAVIOR

1 2 3 4

SENSORY STIMULATION — to feel good, especially when anxious or excited ESCAPE — to avoid a non-preferred activity or interaction, especially a task that is too difficult or easy TANGIBLE — to gain a preferred item or activity ATTENTION-SEEKING — for social interaction

evaluation by someone other than the school psychologist.”

Gorczynski urges parents, “If you have behavior concerns and a behavior plan has not been done, ask for an IEP meeting to request one. You can request an IEP team meeting at any point.”

According to IDEA 2004 (the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act), which ensures all children with disabilities have access to a FAPE, the IEP team must address behavior issues when they interfere with a student’s learning or the learning of others.

“Trust your gut when something doesn’t feel right, educate yourself and be proactive,” Gorczynski says. “Then you will know enough to ask a question. Read the special education procedural safeguards notice, ‘A Guide to Parent Rights in Special Education,’ that districts share during the IEP meeting, visit ODE’s website for special education resources and attend seminars.”

For additional support, she suggests reaching out to a parent advocate or attorney, adding, “For intense physical safety issues, contact an attorney more quickly.”

Gorczynski cautions parents to choose an advocate carefully, saying, “Meet ahead of time to be on the same page for how to present at a meeting. You want someone who will be strong and advocate to help you work things out, but maintaining an amicable relationship with the district is key.”

Additionally, State Support Teams and the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities offer lists of parent mentors who are local parents of a child with a disability employed by a district or agency to help families navigate the process.

SMOOTHER TRANSITIONS AND SAFETY

In the case of Smith's son Jonathan, simple modifications to the classroom also made a difference. Teachers covered lights, put curtains on windows and placed tennis balls on chair legs to limit light and noise, which are known triggers. Jonathan also has two desks — a normal desk and a table where he sits on a ball and can do puzzles and dot-to-dot.

Smith says, “Jonathan is in constant motion, slamming, stomping, spinning in circles and rolling.” Since the old building had no sensory room or OT resources, the specialist created a sensory diet that included a doorway swing, scooter board and use of headphones. “Since he struggles before math, he has sensory time instead of centers.”

“He finishes classwork in rapid time, then he can do ‘Jonathan work,’” Smith says. “The - CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 -

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- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 -

SPECIAL NEEDS EVENTS Pick your day

SUNDAYS

Sensory Friendly Time.

The museum opens an hour and a half early to a limited number of guests for a quieter, less crowded experience. For families with children with special needs on the third Sunday of the month. Children’s Museum of Cleveland, 3813 Euclid Ave., cmcleveland.org

MONDAYS

Special Needs Open Jump.

Exclusively for children with special needs and their siblings, 4-5:30 p.m. Skyzone, 750 Alpha Drive, Highland Hts., 440-596-3400; and 31500 Viking Pkwy., Westlake, 440-414-0444; skyzone.com

FRIDAYS

Coffee, Tea & Autism.

Discussion and information sharing among anyone impacted by autism. First and third Friday. 7 p.m. Panera Bread, 4338 Kent Road, Stow, autismakron.org Play & Say. A new adapted playgroup that is safe and welcoming for families who have concerns about their child (ages 0-6 years). Free and open to the public. 10:30 a.m. Solon Branch Library, 34125 Portz Pkwy., connectingforkids.org

day - by - day

9/4

Developing Relevant Transition IEPs. Learn how to use backward planning to develop a year-by-year plan for your student to transition from high school to adulthood based on their post-school goals. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, 330296-2827, reedlibrary.org

9/7

Bob Meister Special Needs Fishing Derby. Exclusively for individuals with special needs. Following the derby, prizes will be awarded and pizza lunch will be served. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sippo Lake Marina, 5300 Tyner St., Canton, starkparks.com

9/11

Fantastic Fishing. Individuals with disabilities learn fishing basics in the parks as they try to catch bluegill, catfish and largemouth bass. Instruction, equipment and bait provided. 6-7 p.m.

Lake FarmPark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com Dad’s Club. Supportive conversation will provide an opportunity for fathers to share their hopes and concerns as they are raising their children with special needs. 7-8:30 p.m. Friendship Circle, 27900 Gates Mills Blvd., Pepper Pike, friendscleveland.com

9/13

American Sign Language and Deaf Cultures Program.

Children in grades third through sixth are invited to learn about the deaf community and basic American Sign Language. 4 p.m. Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., 330-673-4414, kentfreelibrary.org

9/14

Zoothing Hour. The zoo is open early for people with special needs who don’t like crowds or loud noises.

9-10 a.m. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., 330-375-2550, akronzoo.org

9/17

Adapted Apple Harvest.

Program participants will see how apple cider is pressed, explore the corn maze and have an apple snack.

Designed for individuals with disabilities. 5-6:30 p.m.

Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-2122, lakemetroparks.com

9/20

BLAST Dinner and a Movie.

The mission of BLAST is to provide safe social and recreational activities to people with developmental disabilities. BLAST events are a great way to develop and foster friendships with peers.

5:30 p.m. West Theatre, 1017 Wooster Road W., Barberton, summitdd.org

EducationGuide Guide2019 2019 28 28 || Education

Free Sensory-Friendly Haircuts. Once a month, Catalyst Farms is offering free haircuts by stylists while their team of therapists is on hand to offer support. Perfect for children on the autism spectrum or with sensory difficulties. 1021 Ridgewood Road, Wadsworth, 234-2060815, mcbdd.org

9/21

American Sign Language Tours. CMA docent–led public tours are interpreted by students in the American Sign Language/English Interpreting Program at Kent State University. The Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., 216-421-7350, clevelandart.org Youth Challenge Superhero Dash. 34th annual 5k and 1 mile fun walk to raise money for programs that bring together young people with physical disabilities and teen volunteers who inspire each other through adapted sports, recreation and social growth activities. 8 a.m.

Lakewood Park, 14532 Lake Ave., hermescleveland.com

9/23

Sensory-Friendly Story Time. Especially for children on the autism spectrum, those with sensory integration challenges, and their families/caregivers. 6:30-7 p.m. Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., 330-3345761, wadsworthlibrary.com

9/27

VIP Night Out Respite.

A night out for parents of special needs children. The VIP volunteer team is made up of experienced volunteers who work weekly with special needs children. 6-10 p.m.

Grace Church, 754 Ghent Road, Akron, graceohio.org

ability to bounce back and forth keeps him engaged.”

To ease new school year transitions, Smith coordinates with the principal to visit the building before the first day to get comfortable with the environment.

She begins each year talking to the teachers about their systems and the words they use for consistency, and also coordinates with them on the use of a daily log book to share information.

A major behavior concern, particularly among autistic children, is elopement or wandering.

“Jonathan is a runner,” Smith says.

“When he is emotional or scared, he bolts. He does not follow verbal commands, so if you don’t physically stop him, he will not stop. It’s terrifying.”

After he got out of the building four times in kindergarten, she did research and worked with the school to adopt the SPECTRUM Alert Plan, an eightstep protocol for avoiding tragedy that is now used by the entire district. According to Smith, the key is removing all blame and putting the needs of the child first and foremost.

“I told the school, this is not about your staff,” Smith explains. “(We deal with this at home, too.) This is about him being fast and needing a plan to keep him safe.”

As another safety measure, Smith signed a release for Jonathan to be restrained.

“When he is frustrated or angry, he will clear table tops, throw chairs or show aggression toward adults,” she states. “He was fully restrained six times last year. He knows what it is, and he doesn’t like it. They call it ‘holding him.’

There are only three people in school who will hold him: the intervention specialist, principal and aide. If they can, they give him a warning first, saying ‘If you aren’t safe with your body we will have to hold you.’ Nine times out of 10, a warning is enough to stop him. They do a good job of it.”

While some may consider behavior a choice, the specialist describes aggression for some children as an innate reaction, a fight or flight response to a perceived danger or threat when the environment is not working for a child, and he or she is overwhelmed.

Kimbler finds that when teachers, districts and parents buy in to a behavior plan and put some extra support in the classroom for 2-3 weeks to consistently implement the plan, results come more quickly.

Education

NEWS

Local Fourth-Graders Discover Kindred Spirit in Teacher who Faced Learning Obstacles as a Child When Amy Norris’ fourth-grade students arrive to her Summit Academy Akron Elementary School classroom for the first day of classes next Thursday, you might guess she’s met them before. Her students, many with ADHD, autism and other challenges, find a kindred spirit in Norris, once a struggling student herself.

“I missed things,” says Norris, recalling her childhood days in the classroom where her teachers’ words scrambled in her head and lessons rarely made sense. “I struggled, especially in math and science.

I could not wrap my head around algebra because of its use of letters.”

Norris eventually discovered that she had Attention Deficit Disorder and used visual learning as her ticket to college.

Getting there, however, was a long, taxing journey that spanned 12 years, during which she spent endless hours studying and writing classroom notes over and over again.

She says she enjoys sharing her personal tale with her students, many of whom face learning obstacles similar to those she experienced as a youngster.

“Letting them know I had troubles puts them at ease,” Norris says.

Likewise, she says her story’s happy ending, one narrated with a successful college career and highlighted with undergraduate and master’s degrees and a rewarding vocation, helps instill her students with optimism about their futures.

It’s no wonder Norris sees her students as “hidden geniuses” waiting to be discovered, ready for Norris to do her magic to bring out their best.

Norris’ approach to teaching her students is as individual as they are. A nonverbal student may need to take a quiz by flagging her answers with Post-it notes in a book. Another child, perhaps one with a limited vocabulary, could require a spelling test with words containing four or less letters.

“We adapt and we see a lot of growth.

It’s like paints. Pick one that works, and use it,” says Norris, adding that her 14 years as a teacher at Summit Academy is no accident.

“I wanted to be the teacher I never had and desperately needed,” she says.

Amy Norris

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY SUMMIT ACADEMY

—Submitted by Summit Academy in Akron

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OPEN HOUSES FALL 2019 Mastery School Magnolia Drive, University Circle 440-423-2955, hawken.edu Sept. 15 & Oct. 13: 1 p.m.

(Informational Session) Nov. 17: 1 p.m. (Open House) HERSHEY MONTESSORI

Upper School Huntsburg Campus 11530 Madison Road, Huntsburg Twp. 440-636-6290, hershey-montessori.org Sept. 9, Oct. 7, Nov. 4: 9-11 a.m.

(Visitor's Days)

ANDREWS OSBORNE ACADEMY 38588 Mentor Ave., Willoughby 440-942-3600, andrewsosborne.org Oct. 17-20: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

(Open House Drop In Days) BEAUMONT SCHOOL 3301 N. Park Blvd., Cleveland Hts. 216-321-2954, beaumontschool.org Sept. 29: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Nov. 13: 5:30-7 p.m.

BIRCHWOOD SCHOOL 4400 W. 140th St., Cleveland 216-251-2321, birchwoodschool.org Oct. 20: 2 p.m.

CLEVELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL 12510 Mayfield Road, Cleveland 216-421-0700, clevelandmontessori.org Nov. 2: 2-4 p.m.

CUYAHOGA VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 4687 Wyoga Lake Road, Cuyahoga Falls 330-929-0575, cvcaroyals.org Oct. 18: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

30 | Education Guide 2019

GILMOUR ACADEMY 34001 Cedar Road, Gates Mills 440-473-8050, gilmour.org/visit Oct. 27: noon-2 p.m.

(Upper School) HATHAWAY BROWN SCHOOL 19600 N. Park Blvd., Shaker Hts. 216-932-4214, hb.edu/openhouse Monthly (Middle and Upper School) Nov. 2: 10-11:30 a.m.

(Infant, Toddler, Early Childhood, Primary School) HAWKEN SCHOOL

Lower & Middle Schools 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Sept. 11: 9 a.m. (Parent Visit) Oct. 15: 9 a.m. (Parent Visit) Nov. 10: 1 p.m. (Open House)

Upper School 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Sept. 19: 12:30 p.m. (Parent Visit) Oct. 17: 8:30 a.m. (Parent Visit) Nov. 3: 1-3 p.m. (Open House)

JOSEPH & FLORENCE MANDEL JEWISH DAY SCHOOL 26500 Shaker Blvd., Beachwood 216-464-4055, lsimon@mandeljds.org Nov. 14: 8:30 a.m.

(Sneak-a-Peek at Kindergarten) LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY 37501 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville 440-327-1175, lakeridgeacademy.org Oct. 20: 1 p.m.

LAUREL SCHOOL

Lyman Campus 1 Lyman Circle, Shaker Hts. Oct. 3: 5-7 p.m. (Open House) Butler Campus 7420 Fairmount Road, Novelty 216-464-1441, laurelschool.org Oct. 3: 5-7 p.m.

LAWRENCE SCHOOL

Lower School 1551 E. Wallings Road, Broadview Hts. 440-526-0717, lawrenceschool.org Oct. 16: 8:30-10:30 a.m.

Upper School 10036 Olde Eight Road, Sagamore Hills 440-526-0717, lawrenceschool.org Oct. 24: 6-8 p.m.

THE LILLIAN AND BETTY RATNER SCHOOL

27575 Shaker Blvd., Pepper Pike 216-464-0033, theratnerschool.org Oct. 28: 6-7 p.m.

(Elementary and Middle School) Sept. 13 & 27, Oct. 11 & 25, Nov. 8: 9-10:30 a.m.

(Toddler and Children's House) THE LIPPMAN SCHOOL 750 White Pond Drive, Akron 330-836-0419, thelippmanschool.org Nov. 7: 9-11 a.m.

Nov. 10: 1-3 p.m.

MAGNIFICAT 20770 Hilliard Blvd., Rocky River 440-331-1572, magnificaths.org Oct. 6: 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

MENLO PARK ACADEMY 2149 W. 53rd St., Cleveland 440-925-6365, menloparkacademy.com Sept. 17: 5:30-7 p.m.

(Information Night) Oct. 19: 10-11:30 a.m.

(Open House) Nov. 12: 5:30-7 p.m.

(Information Night) NOTRE DAME-CATHEDRAL LATIN SCHOOL 13000 Auburn Road, Chardon 440-286-6226, ndcl.org Oct. 2 & 29: 6-8 p.m.

THE MUSIC SETTLEMENT

University Circle Campus 11125 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland 216-421-5806, themusicsettlement.org Nov. 10: 1-2:30 p.m.

(Early Childhood Open House) Ohio City Campus 2610 Detroit Ave., Cleveland 216-377-1410, themusicsettlement.org Oct. 2: 4-6 p.m.

(Therapy Open House) Nov. 10: 1-2:30 p.m.

(Early Childhood Open House)

OLD TRAIL SCHOOL 2315 Ira Road, Bath 330-666-1118, oldtrail.org Nov. 10: 1-2:30 p.m.

OUR LADY OF THE ELMS SCHOOL 1375 W. Exchange St., Akron 330-836-9384, theelms.org Sept. 22, Oct. 20, Nov. 10: noon-2 p.m.

PADUA FRANCISCAN HIGH SCHOOL 6740 State Road, Parma 440-845-2444, paduafranciscan.com Oct. 20: 1-4 p.m.

Oct. 21: 6-8 p.m.

SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY 3470 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland 216-251-6788, sja1890.org Oct. 11: 9 a.m.-noon (5th, 6th & 7th Grade Visit Day) Oct. 20: 1-4 p.m.

SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL 6923 Stow Road, Hudson 330-342-4200, setoncatholicschool.org Nov. 10: 2-4 p.m.

ST. BARNABAS SCHOOL 9200 Olde Eight Road, Northfield 330-467-7921, sbcatholicschool.com Oct. 30: 5:30-6:30 p.m.

ST. GABRIEL SCHOOL 9935 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Concord Twp. 440-352-6169, st-gabrielschool.org Sept. 9: 9 a.m.

ST. MICHAEL SCHOOL

St. Michael Campus 6906 Chestnut Road, Independence 216-524-6405, stmichaelschoolinfo.com

St. Basil Campus 8700 Brecksville Road, Brecksville 440-717-0398, stmichaelschoolinfo.com/ st-basil-campus Nov. 3: 1-3 p.m.

(Both Campuses)

ST. SEBASTIAN PARISH SCHOOL Day School 500 Mull Ave., West Akron 330-836-9107, stsebastian.org/school Nov. 8: 8:15-10:30 a.m.

(Explorer Day)

TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL 12425 Granger Road, Garfield Hts. 216-581-1644, ths.org Oct. 27: 10 a.m.-12:45 p.m.

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL

Hunting Valley Campus (Grades 9-12) 2785 SOM Center Road, Hunting Valley 216-831-2200, us.edu Oct. 20: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Shaker Heights Campus (Junior Kindergarten-Grade 8) 20701 Brantley Road, Shaker Hts. 216-321-8260, us.edu Oct. 20: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

VILLA ANGELA-ST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL 18491 Lakeshore Blvd., Cleveland 216-481-8414, vasj.com Oct. 13: 1 p.m.

Nov. 6: 6 p.m.

WESTERN RESERVE ACADEMY 115 College St., Hudson 330-650-9717, wra.net Nov. 2: 10 a.m.

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Northeast Ohio Parent Cover Kids winner Eliza, with her brothers Kale and Corren.

Photo by Kim Stahnke

School ProFiles - SPONSORED CONTENT -

V 18491 Lakeshore Blvd.

Cleveland 216-481-8414 Ext. 285 vasj.com

OPEN HOUSES: Oct. 13: 1 p.m.

Nov. 6: 6 p.m.

illa Angela-St. Joseph High School is a place where students can grow in their faith, be challenged academically, follow their passions, and create lasting memories and friendships.

At VASJ, diversity is embraced and celebrated as something that makes the school truly special. Students become members of the VASJ family and develop close relationships with their classmates and teachers.

Students know they are more than just a number at VASJ. The small class sizes and low student-to-teacher ratio allows students to receive a highly-personalized learning experience and build close relationships with classmates and teachers.

VASJ’s curriculum can be tailored to meet the individual needs and interests of the students. Course offerings and electives prepare students not only for college but also for real-world experiences. Students can be challenged in a variety of advanced placement and honors courses and have the opportunity to earn college credit through the College Credit Plus Program.

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I highly recommend VASJ as a high school. Not only has it helped me to grow in my education, but it’s helped me to grow closer to others and within myself.

❞

— Maura Kinsella ’20 Enrollment: 465 Current grades served: 9-12 Tuition costs: $9,300

Power Points: VASJ is a faith-based educational community that accepts students for who they are and helps them become the person they want to be. VASJ has been offering quality, Catholic education in Cleveland for over 140 years.

Mission: Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School is a Catholic, comprehensive college-preparatory school rooted in the Ursuline and Marianist traditions and committed to the spiritual, academic, and personal growth of each student.

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9200 Olde Eight Road Northfield

S

t. Barnabas School is a family, fostering lifelong relationships and a spirit of loyalty and pride.

It is dedicated to the spiritual, academic, social, physical and emotional development of all students. Its staff believes that children learn through experiences, and the earlier they create STEM-based learning experiences, the better. In the “Dream Den,” students from pre-k through eighth grade engage in projects gaining valuable experiences in critical thinking, problem solving, engineering processes, creative design, and collaboration in a technologyrich environment. Its robust science program and state-of-the art science lab enable students across the grades to learn in a hands-on environment. Its staff values the importance and need for additional activities beyond the classroom. St. Barnabas has something for everyone with a wide variety of extra-curricular activities, athletic teams and pep rallies, a student-run TV station, academic competition teams, spirit days, school-wide retreats, community service opportunities and leadership development programs, all intended to foster social development and make lasting memories and friendships. St. Barnabas School is a special place!

Come experience the “Saint Barnabas Difference.”

330-467-7921 sbcatholicschool.com facebook.com/ stbarnabascatholicschool

Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and in partnership with our parish community, we nurture the seeds of faith and learning, cultivate the tree of knowledge and follow the path of Christ while serving others.

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OPEN HOUSES:

Oct. 30, 2019: 5:30-7 p.m.

Jan. 26, 2020: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Contact admissions for a tour: sfarber@barnabasohio.org

Power Points:

Grades served: Preschool-grade 8 Enrollment: 435

Student to teacher ratio: 10:1

MISSION STATEMENT:

Tuition: preschool 3s $1,179; preschool 4s $1,528; pre-k $4,365; kindergarten through eighth grade $4,229 (multi student discounts)

“We are committed to the guiding principles that are listed in our mission statement. We take very seriously the responsibility and trust you place in us to foster the spiritual and academic development of your children.

Additionally, we place great emphasis on responsibility to self and service to others as we strive to cultivate students as citizens.”

❞

— Mrs. Erin Faetanini, Principal

• Catholic/Christian traditions and values are cultivated and celebrated

• New “Wrap Around” Daycare for preschool & pre-k

• Commitment to Academic Excellence

• 1:1 Chromebooks; 3D Printers, Raspberry Pi, Sphero and Lego Robotics, Kodable and numerous other software programs • Small class sizes

• Auxiliary staff and full-time teacher aides

• National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence • Extended Care (K-8th)

• Technology enhanced curriculum (STEM)

T

he Lippman School offers a transitional kindergarten through eighth grade independent school education, unsurpassed in the Greater Akron Area. It presents small classes, carefully selected teachers, and an accelerated, inquiry-based curriculum.

While embracing the rich Jewish values and traditions it was founded on 54 years ago, the school enjoys its reputation for diversity, international perspective, and a robust sense of community. Readied for top-tier high schools and beyond, the students demonstrate learning outcomes with character, competency and purpose.

Your child will have the opportunity to hone leadership skills, enjoy academic challenges, develop social awareness, think critically, and learn about cultures and traditions from around the world.

750 White Pond Drive Akron 330-836-0419 thelippmanschool.org

Upcoming Events: Oct. 6: First People’s Day Walk at 1:30 p.m.

Native American Foods Dinner at 4:30 p.m.

Open Houses: Nov. 7: 9-11 a.m.

Nov. 10: 1-3 p.m.

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Enrollment: 114 Grades served: transitional kindergarten to grade 8 Student/Teacher ratio: 12:1 Average class size: 12 Tuition: $8,046-$11,920; financial aid available

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This has been our first year at Lippman and also the first year my fourth grade son has really enjoyed going to school.

Not one complaint! As a parent, I’ve enjoyed getting to know the students, parents and staff who are very welcoming. We love it here and it’s been such a wonderful community to be a part of from day one!

❞

– Nikki Smith, parent

Power Points: • Spanish or Hebrew beginning in Kindergarten • Cross Cultural programming with the Northern Cheyenne Nation and Dali School in China • Science facility with hands-on laboratory • State-of-the-art Innovation Center/Library • One-to-one laptop program grades 3-8 • One-to-one iPad program grades 1-2 • Full stage performing arts theatre • Physical Education that includes swim lessons • Middle School team sports

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24601 Fairmount Blvd.

Beachwood 216-464-2600 beachwoodschools.org

Enrollment: 1,600

Grades served: PreK-12

Student to teacher ratio: 12:1

eachwood City Schools is a small, high-performing public school district that offers an amazing range of opportunities for students. It boasts a 5-star preschool and “A” rated elementary, middle and high schools ranked among the top in Ohio. Beachwood Middle School was just named a 2019 Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education and the district recently was ranked one of the Top 50 school systems in America.

Beachwood’s diverse community welcomes families from across the nation and globe and has a proud history of steadfast support for public education. Its small size and robust funding are utilized to provide an individualized educational experience for each Beachwood student. The school enjoys a strong relationship with the city government as well as local businesses, making Beachwood a premiere suburb for families who value education, location and a sense of community.

District demographics: 50% White, 20% African American, 20% Asian, 6% Mixed Race, 4% Hispanic

MISSION STATEMENT:

To Develop Intellectual Entrepreneurs with a Social Conscience

Power Points:

• 28 AP courses

• 23 athletic teams

• Medical and engineering partnerships with University Hospitals and CSU

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2315 Ira Road, Bath 330-666-1118 oldtrail.org

O Open Houses & Drop-Ins: Nov. 10, 2019: 1-2:30 p.m.

Feb. 2, 2020: 1-2:30 p.m.

Apr. 19, 2020: 1-2:30 p.m.

June 17, 2020: 9-10:30 a.m.

Enrollment: 440 Grades served: PreK-8 Student to teacher ratio: 10:1 Tuition: $3,700-$21,640

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ld Trail School is an independent, coeducational day school for students ages 2 through eighth grade situated on a picturesque, 62-acre campus in the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. With a commitment to a dynamic environment of academic excellence, service learning and global sustainability, the school has inspired the best and brightest young people in the region for nearly 100 years.

Students master reading, writing and mathematics while also learning to question, investigate and consider multiple perspectives.

They raise their voices to ask bigger questions, explore new spaces and push themselves farther, ultimately building a lifelong love of learning.

Early Childhood Program students (toddler to 5 years old) explore early math, science and literacy concepts through structured play. Unstructured play allows for developing creativity, social skills and confidence. Primary School students (grades K to 2) grow as keen observers and independent thinkers, becoming more fully immersed in enriching experiences. Intermediate School students (grades 3 to 5)

engage in challenging coursework and opportunities to lead and begin to better understand advanced processes, leading to more selfawareness and self-advocacy.

Middle School students (grades 6 to 8) are community ambassadors and participate in elective courses, service-learning experiences, extended class trips, clubs and athletics teams. They emerge fully prepared for high school and college success with 94 percent of Old Trail students gaining acceptance into their first-choice independent or private high school.

At Old Trail, students explore, investigate and imagine. As they join our community of educators, learners, thinkers and leaders, students find the focus, confidence and skills they’ll need to thrive.

As they solve problems together, they gain resilience and grit. As they advocate for themselves and others, they gain independence and confidence. And as they grow, create, build, invent and push themselves further at Old Trail School, they discover who they are and what they are capable of. Learn more at oldtrail.org.

Power Points: • Average class size: 16 • 35 percent of OTS families benefit from flexible tuition • $1.4 million awarded in grants and scholarships • 11 acres of organic farmland on campus

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A

6923 Stow Road Hudson 330-342-4200, ext. 226 setoncatholicschool.org

OPEN HOUSES:

Nov. 10: 2-4 p.m.

Jan. 26, 2020: 2-4 p.m.

Enrollment: 427 Grades served: K-8, Coeducational Student to teacher ratio: 12:1

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t Seton Catholic School, a lifetime love of learning starts from day one. Located on a beautiful campus adjoining the park system, Seton’s kindergarten through eighth grade experience is uniquely exceptional. Students are immersed in an environment of academic rigor, creativity, adventure, and social awareness through service. Seton students grow and learn in an atmosphere where education of the whole child — mind, body, and soul — is fundamental.

Fostering 21st century learning skills, its teachers develop critical thinking, communication, problem solving, collaboration, community and creativity through the integration of technology into the core curriculum. Students emerge as lifelong learners, responsible digital citizens, and creators instead of consumers.

Technology is constantly evaluated to remain authentic and with a vision to the future. Seton is a national award-winning school with excellent STEM, fine arts, extra-curricular, sports and enrichment programs offered to all students in a loving, faith-based environment.

Power Points:

Tuition: $6,125 (multi-student discount, • Independent private school and faith-based tuition assistance available) • Local, state and national award-winning school • Blended learning

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“Seton Catholic School is a community of staff, parents and students fully committed to excellence. Our blended learning environment includes the best of rigorous traditional instructional strategies combined with progressive practices of technology integration, inquiry, problem-solving and collaboration.

Students at Seton Catholic School grow spiritually, academically, socially, emotionally, and physically through their classroom experiences and in our more than 50 cocurricular activities.”

— Karen Alestock, Principal

• Enriched education

• Rigorous curriculum • Competitive sports

• Innovative STEM initiatives • Wireless campus and advanced technologies

A lifetime love of learning starts here.

❞

• Exceptional fine arts program • Adventure and fun activities

• Extended day program

Seton Catholic School

spiritual development • academic excellence responsibility to self • service to others It starts the moment you walk on to Seton’s 9-acre campus. It starts with teachers and staff that personalize your student’s educational journey. With state-of-the-art facilities, technology and programming. It starts with opportunities in the arts, music and athletics and with the community that is Seton Catholic.

It starts with you.

Call today for a personal tour.

330.342.4200 x226

6923 Stow Road | Hudson, OH

38 | Education Guide 2019

An Independent, Catholic K-8 school setoncatholicschool.org

SETON

CATHOLIC

SCHOOL

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645 Moorfield Road Fairlawn 330-867-8720, ext. 343 st-hilaryschool.org

T OPEN HOUSES: Kindergarten Kaleidoscope Prospective 2020-21 kindergarten families Jan. 9, 2020: 9-11 a.m.

RSVP required by Dec. 26 330-867-8720, ext. 343 Catholic Schools Week Open House Open to all – explore K-8 Tour the school/meet teachers Jan. 26, 2020: noon-2 p.m.

No RSVP needed

oday’s world demands strong moral character, global mindedness, and a broad, forward-thinking skill set. The challenging task of preparing children to have these attributes takes place every day at St. Hilary School. Recognized as a leader among elementary schools in the area, St. Hilary School continues to raise the bar by masterfully blending traditional core values with innovative teaching methods and cutting-edge programs.

The Catholic faith is infused into all aspects of a St. Hilary School education. Faith in God and service to others are key concepts that drive the entire formative experience. At St. Hilary School, solid morals, values and character are as important as any curricular subject.

Faculty and staff exemplify a love for children and a passion for education. Individualized instruction is available for students needing additional assistance or enrichment. Administrators are visible and involved, and parent support is substantial. Faculty, staff and parents partner to ensure

Enrollment: 570 Grades served: K-8 Student to teacher ratio: average 21:1 Average class size: 21 Tuition: $4,235-$6,360

The Future Begins Here

academic success, and to provide enriching extracurricular and athletic experiences for students.

Experiential learning allows students to fully immerse themselves in lessons. Younger students learn to conduct classical music pieces, while older students explore a host of contemporary careers. A recipient of the Governor’s Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education and Student Research, St. Hilary School provides facilities, courses and amenities that engage and challenge students and foster critical thinking and leadership. An outdoor classroom, a science lab, a Maker Space, Paxton-Patterson labs, and cutting edge technology, including 1:1 iPads and Chromebooks, enable students to truly be 21st century learners.

While much is new at St. Hilary School, much remains constant.

This perfect blend of innovation and tradition has made the school a top choice for thousands of families for nearly 60 years. Built on a foundation of excellence, the future begins here.

Power Points: •Two-time Blue Ribbon School • 98% of graduates continue Catholic education in high school • Before- and after-school care • On-site auxiliary services • Full slate of clubs and sports • Tuition assistance and scholarships available

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T 27575 Shaker Blvd.

Pepper Pike 216-464-0033 theratnerschool.org

OPEN HOUSES:

Montessori Mornings: Sept. 13, 27, Oct. 11, 25, Nov. 8, Dec. 6, Jan. 10, 24, Feb. 7 Mar. 13, May 15: 9-10:30 a.m. (18months - Kindergarten) Elementary I, Elementary II, and Middle School programs: Oct. 28 & Jan. 12, 2020: 9-10:30 a.m.

Enrollment: 210 Grades served: 18 months - 8th grade Tuition and fees: $6,898 - $18,439

he Lillian and Betty Ratner Montessori School offers programs designed for the whole child. Its approach offers a combination of individual, small and large group learning activities that successfully prepare students academically and socially.

In their authentic Montessori classrooms, children are independent, curious, and excited about learning. Montessori-trained teachers help to facilitate a prepared environment, allowing for explorative learning as well as creativity.

The school's age-blended classrooms provide a unique learning environment where students interact with peers across a wide age range. Older students naturally assume roles as mentors to younger students, fostering intrinsic motivation as leaders and learners. Teachers get to know each student in a complete way, and meet each student where he or she may be educationally.

Its staff invites you to explore the program offerings and visit the school to see this innovative learning environment in action.

Student to teacher ratios: • Toddler (18months - 3years) 6:1 • Children's House (3years - Kindergarten) 10:1 • Elementary I and Elementary II (Grades 1- 6) 12:1 • Middle School (Grades 7-8) 10:1

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This school lives out its values of diversity, inclusion, and passion for learning in every way possible. After 5 years at Ratner my daughter is equipped to face the challenges of high school with confidence in herself and compassion for others.

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— Jennifer Schwartz Mrazek

Mission and Core Values: • We empower students to find joy in learning and to become their best selves.

• We are a welcoming, caring, global community.

• We create a challenging and relevant academic environment.

• We are inspired by and practice Montessori Education.

• We teach universal values rooted in the Jewish faith.

• We embrace diversity.

• We meet the needs of each individual learner.

M

agnificat High School is a girls’ Catholic, collegepreparatory high school founded by the Sisters of the Humility of Mary that prepares young women to learn, lead and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat. More than 700 students with a diversity of backgrounds, interests and aspirations choose Magnificat for the distinctive educational experience it provides. Classroom learning is enriched through experiential learning, service and leadership opportunities. Under the mentorship of teachers, counselors and advisors, each student designs a unique educational experience, choosing from a course selection that includes over 30 AP and honors courses, 50 co-curriculars, and 15 varsity sports. Students are given the tools to reach their academic and leadership goals, as well as the flexibility to discover new interests and talents.

20770 Hilliard Blvd.

Rocky River 440-331-1572 magnificaths.org

MISSION STATEMENT:

We educate young women holistically to learn, lead and serve in the spirit of Mary’s Magnificat.

OPEN HOUSE:

Oct. 6: 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Enrollment: 700

Grades served: 9-12 Student to teacher ratio: 11:1 Tuition: $15,850

Power Points: • New for the 2019-20 year is the Computer Science and Innovation department, which will allow students to pursue a comprehensive, strategic computer science curriculum that builds a foundation in core concepts, equips them with problem solving and decisionmaking skills, and prepares them for lifelong learning in the discipline.

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• Magnificat has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a Green Ribbon School for its sustainability efforts.

• Magnificat is the only all-girls Catholic school in Northeast Ohio with a synthetic turf field on its campus.

• Magnificat’s Center for the Performing Arts houses a 1,000-seat theater, dance studio, dressing rooms, green room, choral room, as well as a scene shop for building props and set pieces.

F

Lower & Middle Schools 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst Birchwood School of Hawken 4400 W. 140th St., Cleveland Upper School P.O. Box 8002 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills Mastery School of Hawken 11025 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland Gries Center 10823 Magnolia Drive hawken.edu

OPEN HOUSES:

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ounded in 1915, Hawken School is an independent, nonsectarian, coed day school of 1,400 students, toddler through grade 12, located on two campuses in the eastern suburbs of Cleveland — a campus on Cleveland’s west side, and an additional urban extension center located in University Circle. In August of 2020, Hawken will open The Mastery School of Hawken, which will take Hawken’s experiential, problem-based programming to scale in the heart of Cleveland.

Hawken offers nationally recognized programming and non-traditional schedules to support experiential learning and innovative teaching. Partnerships with world-renowned institutions offer real-world learning opportunities and connect students to their local and global communities. Immersive experiences including honors-level engineering and entrepreneurship courses and STEMM internships instill in students the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and dynamic world.

The school takes seriously its motto of “Fair Play” and its mission of “Forward-focused education for the real world through the development of character and intellect.”

Birchwood School For preschool-grade 8 Oct. 20: 2 p.m.

Lyndhurst Campus Lower and Middle School toddler-grade 8 Nov. 10: 1 p.m.

Gates Mills Campus Upper School grades 9-12 Nov. 3: 1 p.m.

University Circle Mastery School of Hawken Nov. 17: 1 p.m.

Enrollment: 1,400 Current grades: Toddler-12th

Student to teacher ratio: 8:1 Tuition: $6,460-$34,900

❝

Instilling in students the skills they need to become successful adults is a top priority at Hawken. But we believe that who students become is just as important as what they become. We intentionally create our innovative programming and our community culture of inclusiveness in ways that inspire our students to go out and be good people who do good things in the world.

❞

— D. Scott Looney, Head of School

Power Points: • $9.6 million in tuition reduction awarded annually • Highest number of National Merit Finalists amongst Cleveland area schools over the past 10 years • State-of-the-art Early Childhood Center • 8,000 square feet of maker space • More individual state championship titles than any other school in Ohio

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2149 W. 53rd St. Cleveland

menloparkacademy.com

Admissions Manager admissions@menloparkacademy.com 440-925-6365, ext. 2

enlo Park Academy is Ohio’s only tuition-free school for gifted children in kindergarten through eighth grade. The community school offers an all-day, accelerated curriculum using flexible learning spaces. Students have the opportunity to find like-minded peers to maximize their talents, while achieving academic, emotional and social success. Menlo Park Academy enrolls students from more than 50 Northeast Ohio cities and nine counties and is located in the historic Joseph & Feiss factory building in the Detroit Shoreway neighborhood.

Menlo Park Academy was founded on Sept. 23, 2008, with 38 students, and today enrolls more than 600. Menlo Park Academy recently was ranked as one of Niche.com’s 250 Best Schools in the Nation, receiving an A grade.

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When my son was entering kindergarten, we started searching for a school that would fit him both academically and socially. For the past four years at Menlo, he has been able to really connect with other students, and has blossomed socially while remaining challenged academically. The flexible learning approach and differentiation has allowed him to advance in subjects where he was ahead of his class, but still foster the friendships he formed in kindergarten.

— Sarah G., current parent

OPEN HOUSES: Sept. 17: 5:30-7 p.m.

Oct. 19: 10-11:30 a.m.

Nov. 12: 5:30-7 p.m.

Dec. 11: 9-10:30 a.m.

Enrollment: 610 Jan. 18, 2020: 10-11:30 a.m.

Feb. 5, 2020: 5:30-7 p.m.

March 4, 2020: (Kindergarten only) 9-10:30 a.m.

April 18, 2020: 10-11:30 a.m.

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Grades served: K-8

Student to teacher ratio: 22:1 Tuition: FREE School districts served: 50+

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Power Points: • Ohio’s only tuition-free, K-8 school for gifted children • Innovative, accelerated curriculum • Flexible learning spaces • Nationally known child psychologist Dr. Sylvia Rimm on staff • Monthly field trips

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34001 Cedar Road Gates Mills 440-473-8000 gilmour.org

CAMPUS AND FACILITIES: Located on 144 acres, Gilmour Academy’s campus is currently in the midst of several construction projects: • The Lorraine and Bill Dodero Center for Performing Arts • Renovation of Weber Stadium • Phase II of Figgie Field project (baseball scoreboard, grandstands, press box, concession stand, bathrooms, entrance plaza with ticket windows) • Outdoor learning facilities for preschool through 12th grade (outdoor classroom; arboretum; nature trail; greenhouse; apiaries; research, classroom and giving gardens; chicken coop)

OPEN HOUSES:

Middle and Upper School Oct. 27: Noon to 2 p.m.

April 19: Noon to 2 p.m.

Lower School Jan. 26, 2020: Noon to 2 p.m.

RSVP for all open houses at gilmour.org/visit

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Existing facilities include: • Natatorium, two ice rinks, two gymnasiums, all-turf baseball field, brand new playground • Digital music studio • Broadcast journalism studio • Steinway pianos (first private school in the Midwest to become a Steinway Select K-12 School) • Molecular genetics research lab (only one of its kind in a secondary school in Ohio)

The innovation happening on this campus is incredible and the lens through which we do it as both a Catholic and independent school is a true differentiator.

ACCREDITATION: Accreditation through Independent School Association of the Central States, Ohio Catholic School Accrediting Association.

— Beth Titas Lazzaro, Director of enrollment management and marketing/communications

EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAMS: • Lower School clubs/activities — 24 (including chess club, hiking club, learn-to-skate, swim lessons,

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Grades served: Montessori (18 months-kindergarten); Grades 1-12

taekwondo, theater, virtual investment club) • Middle School clubs/activities — 11 • Upper School clubs/activities — 42 UNIQUE STUDY OPTIONS/PROGRAMS: The Nature-Based Learning Program (toddler through 12th grade) will feature: • Outdoor learning facilities • Environmental science courses • Sustainability initiatives LancerTech: • Computer science opportunities for students, professional development for teachers • Robotics programming beginning in first grade through advanced courses such as 3D game design, competitive robotics, web development at the Upper School • Recognized as regional training hub/ best practices showcase for educational institutions Wellness Initiative: • Daily wellness block at Lower School • Social-emotional curriculum • Nutrition and physical wellness activities • Mindfulness FACULTY: • Average tenure — 8 years • Average years teaching experience — 14 • Percent with advanced degrees — 70 percent FINANCIAL AID: Merit-based and need-based tuition assistance offered

Enrollment: 641

Average class size: 15

Annual tuition: $9,050-$28,300

Student to teacher ratio: 9:1

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B 3301 N. Park Blvd.

Cleveland beaumontschool.org

eaumont School is an all-girls’ Catholic high school in the Ursuline tradition that educates women for life, leadership and service.

As the only all-girls’ school in Northeast Ohio to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, students take IB classes or fully participate in the International Baccalaureate Degree Programme, a gold standard for academic rigor and college preparation throughout the world.

The program’s focus on internationalmindedness makes it an ideal fit for Beaumont.

Beaumont students have tremendous respect for themselves and each other that translates into a dignity they display in both their words and actions. This speaks to not only the IB mission, but also the mission of Beaumont School, where women truly are learning to change the world.

Beaumont offers a culturally diverse environment providing opportunities in Academic Scholars, Studio Art, PreEngineering, Veale Youth Entrepreneurship Forum, Athletics, and Service.

Enrollment: 325

OPEN HOUSES: Sept. 29: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Nov. 13: 5:30-7 p.m.

April 8, 2020: 5:30-7 p.m.

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Grades served: 9-12, all-girls Student to teacher ratio: 9:1 Tuition and fees: $15,700

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Power Points:

Beaumont School is where young women learn to change the world.

❞

• Only all-girls’ school in Northeast Ohio to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

• Catholic school in the Ursuline tradition educating women for life, leadership and service.

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Y

ou give your children the opportunity. We’ll give them the advantage to achieve.

If you’ve ever felt like your child is missing out on the benefits of an engaging, customized curriculum, one-onone attention, and an inclusive, supportive social environment, Gross Schechter Day School might be your answer. Our mission is to provide children with an outstanding education that ignites students’ passion for learning in a rigorous and nurturing academic environment. We inspire students to lead engaged Jewish lives and achieve personal success.

At Schechter, we feel that a child’s academic excellence is a goal rather than a competition. And we believe that success today means navigating society’s complex challenges—both intellectual and moral— with dignity and strength. That’s why Gross Schechter provides students with the resources and experiences they need— technology and tradition, scholarship and service, art and athletics—to forge their own paths as modern Jews in a global world.

Most of all, we know that the scholastic, social and spiritual values we provide will be part of a child’s life forever.

27601 Fairmount Blvd.

Pepper Pike 216-763-1400 grossschechter.org

Grades Served: Infant care (6 weeks) through 8th grade Enrollment: 260

As a result, our students think like leaders rather than followers. They learn how to live as Jews. They take their studies, their heritage and their world seriously—and know how to enjoy themselves while doing it.

As alumni, they become part of a prestigious community of friends and scholars. And always, they understand the essential value of being a mensch.

At Gross Schechter, our children develop and grow in a rigorous academic environment that focuses on the whole child. Students benefit from experiencing joy in their learning and in being part of a supportive social and emotional environment that prepares them well for high school, college and beyond. Our school has a deeply engaging integrated curriculum, that gives students a strong foundation in both core academics and in Jewish literacy.

Gross Schechter was founded in 1980 as the Jewish Day School Association of Cleveland. Today, with nearly 260 students, Gross Schechter remains a vibrant and spiritual community, providing students with resources to benefit from an award-winning education and instilling them with a pride and love for their Judaism.

Student to Teacher Ratio: 6:1 Tuition: See website for more information

Academic Excellence, Unshakable Foundation

A

1037 East Blvd., Aurora 330-562-8191 valleychristian.com info@valleychristian.com

t Valley Christian Academy in Aurora, students are prepared for life with a well-rounded education, while flourishing in their relationship with God and everyone around them. Students participate in the first STEAM program of its kind in Ohio, gain access to revolutionary technology, learn to serve others through grade-level mission projects, attend weekly chapel, sports, extracurriculars and so much more.

The school’s staff is truly passionate about guiding, educating and preparing students for a successful future — and it’s all done in a loving, nurturing environment. Valley Christian Academy has over 150 online reviews across various websites averaging 5 out of 5 stars.The staff invites you to visit the campus; they strongly believe you will be impressed with your experience.

Please contact the school today to schedule your visit!

❝

The environment is supportive while academically challenging.

The emphasis on others, instead of self, has made a big impact. Our children are becoming respectful, confident, thoughtful young leaders and have been prepared for success — VCA parent

Enrollment: 150

Power Points:

Core Values:

Grades served: PreK-8

• State-chartered, accredited by ACSI

Excellence, Academic quality,

• Voted “Most-Loved Private School” in the region

Spirit-driven, Leadership, Enriching

Student to teacher ratio: 12:1

• 40 years experience educating children

Tuition and fees: $3,230-$6,780

• Top Workplace Award four years in a row

❞

in high school and in life.

God-honoring, Christ-centered, environment, Serving others

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14808 Lake Avenue Lakewood 216-521-0559 lakewoodcatholicacademy.com

OPEN HOUSES:

Oct. 20, 2019: 12-2 p.m. (Early Childhood Program and Kindergarten)

Jan. 26, 2020: 12-2 p.m. (Entire Campus) Enrollment: 625 Grades served: Infants to Pre-K in the Early Childhood Program; K-8 in the elementary school

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akewood Catholic Academy is a premier early childhood center and elementary school on Cleveland’s west side. As a regional school, it serves 625 children from 24 zip codes, ages 6-weeksold through eighth grade on a beautiful 8-acre, lakefront campus. Its innovative, rigorous and international, concept-based curriculum grounded in the Catholic faith supports students in meeting their potential. Students consistently perform at high levels in academic assessments across all grade levels, including placement and entrance exams for some of the area’s top Catholic high schools. LCA strives to provide each member of its community with the highest quality educational experience. The school instills in each student a lifelong commitment and ethical responsibility to the Catholic principles of peace, justice, equality, service and respect for all life.

Student to teacher ratio: 12:1 Tuition: Varies between $5,080 and $14,000, based upon a 9or 12-month program

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Our faculty and staff are at the heart of our joy-filled and loving educational atmosphere.

— Brian Sinchak, President

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Power Points: • International Baccalaureate World School • U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School • International Service Program • CYO and Intramural Sports Teams • 2019 Plain Dealer Top Workplace

Expanding this year to include STEM (science, technology, engineering and math)

Coming Oct. 6!

First 100 families to register get a free tote bag!

What: Northeast Ohio Parent Education & STEM Expo 2019 When: Sunday, October 6, 2019, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: Acacia Clubhouse at Cleveland Metroparks in Beachwood, Ohio

Highlights 40+ Schools & Education-related businesses

Outdoor Fun in the Cleveland Metroparks

Fun with a Naturalist

Dr. U.R. Awesome for some science fun + much more!

Register Now: educationandstemexpo2019.eventbrite.com For information on sponsorship and exhibiting opportunities, contact Publisher Brad Mitchell at 330-822-4011 or brad@northeastohioparent.com

NortheastOhioParent.com

Presenting Sponsor

Education Guide 2019

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48 | Education Guide 2019