These are short news bits (listed newest to oldest)
about successes and achievements of South-Western students and staff.
If you have any newsworthy items, please send them to info@swcs.us
Be sure to include contact information for follow-up.
Holt Crossing Intermediate and SWCS mentioned in SOAR Collaborative report
Battelle for Kids recently completed the SOAR Collaborive: Stories of High Growth and 10 Lessons Learned paper that highlights and details the value of the SOAR Collaborative. Holt Crossing Intermediate School and SWCS are mentioned on pages 3 and 5. SWCS had the fourth highest value-added composite index of the 610 districts in the state with value-added information.
Click here for the full report.
PVMS 7th and 8th Grade Bands receive Superior Rating at OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Event
The Pleasant View Middle School Instrumental Music Program sent two bands, 7th and 8th grade, to the Ohio Music Education Association Large Group Adjudicated Event on Friday, May 11th, 2012 at Central Crossing High School. Bands, orchestras, and choirs from all over Central Ohio were evaluated by 3 judges based on their achievement of musical excellence. Both the 7th Grade Band and the 8th Grade Band received the highest rating, 'SUPERIOR', from all three judges, and were praised for their attention to detail and musicianship. Congratulations to both groups on their outstanding performances!
SWCS Bus Driver Sara Baer has been named the Driver of the Year
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Congratulations to SWCS Bus Driver Sara Baer! Sara has been named the Driver of the Year by the Ohio Association of Pupil Transportation Central Region! Sara has been a bus driver for 14 years and has never missed a day of work. Sara was nominated for the award by fellow driver Linda Ross-Ruff. |
May 7 is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
Stan Heffner, State Superintendent of public instruction, reminds Ohioans that Monday, May 7, 2012, is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day in Ohio.
"Safely transporting students to and from school is vital to education," said Heffner. "The professionalism of Ohio's 15,000 school bus drivers is why the school bus remains – by far – the safest way for students to get to school.
Ohio school bus drivers transport over 900,000 students daily, travelling 1 million miles per day to accomplish that task. At the same time, the school bus safety record is unsurpassed, greatly exceeding that of automobiles, commercial buses and even passenger trains,
To qualify to become a school bus driver in Ohio, an applicant must complete pre-service training and certified on-bus training, pass a driving evaluation and obtain a commercial driver's license. In addition, drivers must pass pre-employment background and drug screenings. Drivers are required to be recertified every six years.
The Ohio Legislature designated the first Monday in May as School Bus Driver Appreciation Day to "increase public recognition of the important function that school bus drivers serve in safely transporting children to and from school."
2012 Employee Awards Recognition Night
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Click here for a list of the award recipients.
2012 National Technical Honor Society Induction
Congratulations new inductees: Tyler Austin, Yesenia Cortes, Ismahan Hassan, Kristen O'Quinn, Zachary Boggs, Courtney Campbell, Kelsi Cavanaugh, Jacob Funk, Serena Lam, Shawna Moore, Meghan Ray, Nancy Ruiz-Chagolla, Brittany Smith, Daquana Sullivan, Loren Svede, Aracely Valdez-Salgado and Rachel Wolford!
South-Western Council of PTAs Honor 2012 Outstanding Educators
On Tuesday, April 24, 2012, the South-Western Council of PTAs and its member units honored the 2012 Outstanding Educators from across the South-Western City School District. The 2012 Outstanding Educators by PTA unit are:
Central Crossing High School.................................................................Justin Gottshall |
Brookpark Middle School........................................................................Courtney Brisco |
Franklin Woods Intermediate School......................................................Susan DeGraaf |
Alton Hall Elementary School..................................................................Stephanie Mills |
South-Western Preschool........................................................................Mary Pat Fisher |
Franklin Heights Symphonic Band Earns Straight Superior Ratings
The Franklin Heights Symphonic Band scored straight "Superior" ratings at the OMEA District Large Group Adjudicated Event held March 17. The Band, competing in Class A, was given the top rating from all three stage judges plus the sight-reading judge. This honor qualifies the Band for the State Large Group Adjudicated Event on April 27/28. Congratulations!
Grove City Presented $1.68 Million to South-Western City Schools
 | Grove City Mayor Richard L. "Ike" Stage presented the South-Western City School District (SWCS) with more than $1.68 million of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds on Monday, March 26, based on an ongoing agreement between SWCS and the City. Click here for the full story. |
Westland Symphonic Band Earns Superior Rating
The Westland High School Symphonic Band earned a Superior rating at the Ohio Music Education Association's District Band Contest on Friday, March 16. The band performed in class "A," which is the second highest classification. The band earned praise for their preparation of a demanding contest program. This is the Symphonic Band's second Superior rating in three years. The symphonic band's contest repertoire included "Ignition" by Todd Stalter, "Them Basses" by G.F. Huffine, and "Havendance" by David Holsinger.
South-Western Students Eating Healthier at School
Click here for the full story.
South-Western gets Money for School Buildings
Click here for the full story.
Grove City High School Orchestra Earns Top Rating at State Contest
Congratulations to the Grove City High School Orchestra for their superior rating at the Ohio Music Education Association State Adjudicated Event on March 2 at Granville High School. The orchestra performed in class "A" (the highest classification with the most difficult music) and was awarded the top mark for their technical preparation and artistic interpretation of the music.
The students performed as a full orchestra, meaning the ensemble included strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion. This was the fourth consecutive superior rating in the highest class for the orchestra. The Grove City High School Orchestra and Boardman High School Symphony Orchestra are the the only two full orchestras in the state of Ohio to have earned the top rating in the top class four successive years.
The group's contest repertoire included Hector Berlioz's "Hungarian March, Bedrich Smetana's "The Moldau", and Jean Sibelius's "Finlandia".
PTAs Honor Helping Hands Recipients and Past Council Presidents
On Tuesday, February 28, 2012, the South-Western City Schools Council of PTAs and its member units honored the 2012 Helping Hands recipients from across the South-Western City School District. Recipients of the award are actively involved with their local PTA unit or council and have made a positive impact on the lives of children through activities involving children and youth. The 2012 recipients by PTA unit are:
| Central Crossing High School................................................................. Roxanne Chaney Franklin Heights High School.................................................................. Meta Swisher Grove City High School........................................................................... Sandra Straight Westland High School............................................................................. Elayne Swackhammer South-Western Career Academy............................................................ Karen Anthony |
| Brookpark Middle School........................................................................ Ranae Stevenson Finland Middle School............................................................................. Todd Reed Jackson Middle School........................................................................... Kay Turner Norton Middle School.............................................................................. Jim & Mary Meyer Pleasant View Middle School.................................................................. Carrie Thompson |
| Franklin Woods Intermediate School...................................................... Tammy Flowers Galloway Ridge Intermediate School...................................................... Heather Justice Hayes Intermediate School..................................................................... Joe Thum Holt Crossing Intermediate School.......................................................... Edgar Hatfield Park Street Intermediate School............................................................. Steve Rinehart |
| Alton Hall Elementary School.................................................................. Angelina Carson Buckeye Woods Elementary School...................................................... Jackie Wallace & Robin Parker Darbydale Elementary School................................................................ Rose Fout Darby Woods Elementary School........................................................... Tony DeMarco East Franklin Elementary School............................................................ Rob Wiggall Finland Elementary School..................................................................... Stephanie Jacobs Harmon Elementary School.................................................................... Carrie Weikert Highland Park Elementary School.......................................................... James Brooks Monterey Elementary School.................................................................. Cari Maynard North Franklin Elementary School.......................................................... Patricia Morales Prairie Lincoln Elementary School.......................................................... Jennifer Helser Prairie Norton Elementary School........................................................... Jackie Keaton Richard Avenue Elementary School....................................................... Patty Ruby J.C. Sommer Elementary School........................................................... Wes Denny Stiles Elementary School........................................................................ Jasmine Pike West Franklin Elementary School........................................................... Mike Kerins South-Western Preschool........................................................................ Norma Perkins |
| South-Western City Schools Council of PTAs........................................ Sandy Nekoloff |
| Westland High School Air Quality Reports |
Air Quality Testing Preliminary Report DRAFTAir Quality Testing Preliminary Report AppendixBureau of Workers' Comp Report WHS |
Teamwork emphasized on CCHS Special Olympics basketball team
Some Central Crossing High School special needs students are building teamwork skills while participating in the school's recently created Special Olympics basketball team.
Click here for the full story.
South-Western school bus drivers observed following 'no idling' policy
Click here for the full story.
Grove City High School Instrumental Students
Earn Exceptionally High Ratings
On February 4, 2012, the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) District XV Solo and Ensemble Contest was held at Pickerington North High School. Students prepared and performed solo and ensemble musical literature and were evaluated using a five-point OMEA rating system; I ("Superior") being the highest rating. Students performed music from three different classifications, which are based on the difficulty of the music selected. Class A is the most difficult and considered at the “state” level. The Grove City High School Instrumental Music Department had a total of 146 music events with 96 events earning a "Superior" (I) rating and 43 events earning an "Excellent" (II) rating, and 5 receiving a “Good” rating (III).
For more information, click here.
South-Western City School District Announces
2012 Kindergarten Registration Information
On Monday, February 6, 2012 all South-Western City School District elementary schools will begin taking calls to schedule kindergarten registration and screening appointments for the 2012-2013 school year.
To enter kindergarten, a child must be five years of age by September 30, 2012.
Parents are encouraged to call the elementary school in their attendance area to schedule an appointment to register their child for the 2012-2013 school year and also to schedule a screening/assessment appointment for their child.
- Kindergarten registration will take place at the South-Western City School District Student Enrollment Center, located at 4079 Gantz Road, Suite C2 in Grove City.
- Screening/assessment activities will be hosted at the student's home school.
After making the necessary appointments, the school will mail a Student Enrollment Packet to the parent(s).
For more information, click here.
South-Western District Leadership Team gets results
(See page 19 for the full article)
College Goal Sunday event
Sunday, February 12, 2012 at 2:00 p.m.
The free event, presented by the Ohio Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (OASFAA) and endorsed by the Ohio Board of Regents, assists students and parents with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is the federal application that is required to receive federal financial aid including the Federal Pell Grant and student loans as well as the need-based state grants.
Due to the great demand expected for assistance in completing the FASFA, families are encouraged to register for the free event at http://www.ohiocollegegoalsunday.org or by calling 1-800-233-6734. The FAFSA is the key to funding a college education and helping families to overcome financial barriers that otherwise prevent students from attending the institution they want to. Studies show that a student is 50% more likely to attend college when they complete the FAFSA. While walk-ins are welcome, registration is encouraged. Record numbers are expected to be in attendance.
Student's eagerness to learn impresses
At 12 months old, Udit Basu started watching video tapes his parents rented from the library. He was writing at 18 months old.
Now a 13-year-old Jackson Middle School student, he has passed high school algebra I and accelerated geometry courses, and currently is two years ahead of the typical college prep student in math and science, school officials said.
No one in The South-Western City School District "has yet accelerated through our math and science programs as quickly as Udit has," said Erik Shuey, executive director for high schools.
Click here for the full story.
Congratulations to the following Westland High School students for receiving awards at the Scholastic Art Competition
- Kristen Mazzara received a Gold Key award which is the highest honor and an Honorable Mention. Her Gold Key drawing will advance to national competition.
- Allie Lukacs received a Silver Key award.
- Denise Tiller received three Honorable Mention awards.
- Geovanny Pablo received an Honorable Mention award.
The artwork will be displayed at The Columbus College of Art and Design in the Canzani Center from January 20 through February 4 and can be viewed by the public from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily.
Board Seeks Southwest Public Library Trustee Applicants
Grove City – Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 3375.15, the South-Western City School District Board of Education is seeking applicants to fill a vacant Southwest Public Library Trustee seat resulting from the resignation of Marc Mays.
Mays' unfinished term extends through December 31, 2014. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and reside within the geographical boundaries of the South-Western City School District.
Applicants are asked to submit a letter of intent and resume to: SPL Trustee, C/O South-Western Board of Education, 3805 Marlane Drive, Grove City, Ohio 43123. All information must be received by the Board of Education no later than January 19, 2012.
South-Western City School District Board of Education Elects Officers
At its January 9, 2012 Organizational Meeting, the South-Western City School District Board of Education elected board member Mindy Garverick as president and board member Randy Reisling as vice president for the year 2012.
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The Oath of Office was administered to Mindy Garverick by Hugh W. Garside, Jr. |
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The Oath of Office was administered to Randy Reisling by Cathy Johnson. |
The board also adopted its 2012 meeting calendar.
Click here to view the press release.
South-Western City Schools Place Issue on Ballot
State to pay 50% of costs for renovated and new school buildings
On Monday, November 28, 2011, at its regularly scheduled meeting, the South-Western City School District Board of Education voted to place a "No New Millage" bond issue on the March 6, 2012 ballot for school facilities. The State, through the Ohio School Facilities Commission (OSFC), will pay $120,000,000 million toward the project, if the bond issue passes to fund the district's local share.
Click here to view the press release.
Franklin Academy to Open in South-Western City Schools
The Educational Service Center of Central Ohio (ESCCO) is partnering with the South-Western City School District to open a new alternative education program, which will be named the Franklin Academy. The Academy will open in January 2012 at 3225 Kingston Avenue in Grove City. This program will provide comprehensive services for elementary through high school age students who are at-risk for or may have emotional and behavioral challenges.
Click here to view the press release.
The South-Western City School District received a 2011 SOAR Award from Battelle for Kids.
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| 2011 SOAR Award for Significant Progress Districts |
Holt Crossing Intermediate School receives 2011 SOAR Awards from Battelle for Kids.
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| 2011 SOAR Award for School-Wise Subject-Area in Mathematics. |
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| 2011 SOAR Award for High Progress Schools |
SWCS Honor Choir Performs at OSBA Capital Conference
The SWCS Honor Choir performed at the 2011 Ohio School Boards Capital Conference. If you would like to hear both the SWCS Honor Choir and Honor Band perform, please plan to attend the 2011 South-Western Educational Foundation Benefit Concert on Thursday, November 17 at 7:00 p.m. in the Central Crossing High School Auditorium. Tickets are $10 each (tax deductible).
Fourth Grade Students Honor Veterans
Fourth grade students at Highland Park Elementary School honored Veterans of all branches of the Armed Services today!
District Receives Auditor of the State Award with Distinction
Brian Mead, from the Auditor of State's Office, congratulates SWCS Treasurer Hugh W. Garside, Jr. on receiving the Auditor of State Award with Distinction for receiving a 'clean' audit report.
South-Western is on the Cutting Edge of Radio Technology
(See page 12 for the full article)
Westland Key Club Students Host Library Reading Hour
Congratulations to our 2011 GED Graduates
For a full listing of our graduates' names, click here.
Jackson Middle School students take on Rachel's Challenge
School Board Recognizes AP Scholars and National Merit Semi-Finalists
At its October 10, 2011 regular meeting, the South-Western City School District Board of Education recognized 31 students for achieving Advanced Placement (AP) and two students for earning National Merit Semi-Finalist status.
Advanced Placement Scholars
The following students were recognized as an Advanced Placement Scholar, having earned a three or higher on three or more advanced placement exams:
Franklin Heights High School
| Alexandria Caplinger | Eddie Kayira | Reygan Simpson |
Grove City High School
| Sarah Blackburn | Zylyftar Gorica | Nicholas Patton |
| Richard Brown | Nathan McCormick | Austin Taliaferro |
| William England | Elisa Monhemius |
Westland High School
| Melissa Basel | Exodus King | Preshuslee Thompson |
| Nola Colegrove | Lindsay Snider |
Central Crossing High School
| Brittney Butler | Taylor Mathews | Autumn Stasheen |
| Jacob Cunagin | Esther Mburu | Abigail Tanner |
| Brandon Doherty | Jennifer Meyer | Andrea Vannoy |
| Jessica Howard | Edward Momot | Seth Wieging |
| Trisha Howard | Yuliya Prokopyuk | Heather Yoho |
The following students were recognized as an Advanced Placement Scholar with Honor, having received an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken and scores of three or higher on four or more exams:
Franklin Heights High School
| Kayla Diaz | Abigael Gast |
Grove City High School
| Andrew Bennett | Ty Payne | Lindsey Scarberry |
| Emily Mulvany | Adam Plank | Shelby Snashall |
Central Crossing
| Megan Ruffley | Tia Smith |
The following students were recognized as an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction, having received an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and scores of three or higher on five or more exams:
Grove City High School
| John Banghoff | Abbegail Wells |
Central Crossing High School
| Nathaniel Combs | Corey Meyer |
National Merit Semi-Finalists
In October of 2010, Grove City High School students Erin Tolar and William England took the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test along with 1,500,000 other high school juniors planning to enter college in 2012. Of those students, there were 50,000 “High Scorers” selected based on index scores. Of those 50,000 students, 34,000 were recognized as “Commended Students” for their outstanding academic promise. Of the 34,000 students, 16,000 are selected as “Semi-Finalists” based on earning the highest scores in their respective states.
South-Western is proud to have two National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalists who may continue to be selected as “Finalists” in February 2012. Congratulations to Erin Tolar and William England on this outstanding accomplishment!
Rachel's Challenge comes to Jackson Middle School
GCHS 2011 Homecoming Court
Grove City High School is proud to announce the members of its 2011 Homecoming Court. Front (L to R): Abby Wilson, Alex Kursinskis, Elayna Brizendine, Genna Crump, Miranda Inscho, Olivia Akers and Holly Colburn. Back: Rusty Woodworth, Jimmy Gravett, Tyler Kent, Luke Oman, Sam Coachman, Max Moore, and David Fraser.
The king and queen will be crowned before the home football game on Friday, September 30, 2011. The Homecoming dance will be on Saturday, October 1. This year's theme is "Red Carpet Affair."
WHS Key Club Return to School with International Award
Key Club members, Sinai Cruz-Santos, President, Haley Wihl, Secretary and Danielle White, Historian attended the Key Club International Convention in Phoenix, AZ June 28-July 3, 2011. While there, they accepted the International Key Club Third Place trophy for the “Major Emphasis” Club Project. The club project was based on the theme, “Children: their Future, Our Focus.”
WHS Magic Key Story Hour at the Westland Area Library is the monthly project/event that was entered by the club at the Ohio District level where it did not place. However, when entered to the International level, Westland High School received recognition for the dedication of members to the library event.
The Westland High School Key Club Magic Key Story Hour provides both reading and creative crafts. Magic Key Story Hour is marketed to children ages preschool through first grade children with dramatic story reading, hand-puppet stories and creative crafts centered on a fun seasonal theme, and always a snack. Themes (Pumpkins-a-Plenty, Fall Sports, Singing with Santa, Snow, Valentines) were generated to encourage children to dream, think creatively and develop social skills all through reading. The event takes place one Saturday a month from 1-2.
Upcoming dates are October 15, November 12, and December 10. Please plan to attend and stop by the display case at the Westland Area Library and take a look at the trophy and photos from previous Magic Key Story Hour.
Note: WHS Key Club is sponsored by Grove City Kiwanis Club.
Leading the Cheer for Acceptance!
School District Community Advisory Group Seeks Applicants for Three-Year Term
The Community Advisory Group is seeking applicants to serve for a three-year term. Applications may be sent to the District Service Center, 3805 Marlane Drive, Grove City, Ohio, 43123 (c/o David Riddle) or e-mailed to info@swcs.us. The deadline for applications is September 15, 2011.
In 2009, a Community Advisory Group was formed to assist the South-Western City School District's administration by providing input in the following areas:
- Increasing community awareness, understanding and education of the District's goals and objectives;
- Identifying short-term and long-term solutions, on a recommendation basis, to improve the overall educational quality and efficiency of the District;
- Recommending programs directed at recruiting and retaining excellent educators; and
- Identifying fiscal and funding alternative options, making recommendations to the District for long-term efficiency and financial stability.
Congratulations to the SWCA Pre-Engineering Team
Congratulations to the SWCA Pre-Engineering Team of Khadar Mohamed, Kyled McLaughlin and Katie Rucker for earning the BRONZE MEDAL at the SkillsUSA NATIONAL competition in Kansas City, KS! Congratulations to teachers Bill Henning and Dave Williams and advisor Bruce Kottman too. Job well done!
2010-2011 Retirees of the South-Western City School District
Congratulations to all of our employees on their retirement! You will be missed!
Click here for the full listing of 2010-2011 retirees.
South-Western Board and SWAA Reach Agreement
On Monday, June 13, 2011, the South-Western City School District Board of Education voted to enter into a new contract with the South-Western Administrators Association (SWAA).
The current contract ends June 30, 2011. The new agreement takes effect July 1, 2011 and will expire June 30, 2013.
Click here to view the press release.
SWCA Holds Career Passport Ceremony
South-Western Career Academy held its Annual Career Passport Ceremony on Thursday, May 26. The Career Passport is the communication link between school and the workplace. It is a portfolio containing documents that identify and describe the marketable skills of the career-technical completer. The Passport is designed to assist the graduate in making the transition from school to work, in job seeking, and in career planning. It is intended to help employers evaluate a person's capacity to perform the job.
Click here to view the program.
South-Western City Schools Host Christina’s Smile
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On May 31 through June 2, 2011 the South-Western City Schools hosted the Christina’s Smile dental clinic at Norton Middle School, 215 Norton Road, Columbus. The 2011 Christina’s Smile Children’s Dental Clinic at Norton Middle School is being co-sponsored by the Westland Area Business Association.
Now in its ninth year in the South-Western City Schools, Christina’s Smile is a free mobile dental clinic, run by Texas dentist Dr. Richard Garza, which services children between the ages of six and sixteen with no dental insurance. Dr. Garza, who treated many under-privileged children in his Austin, Texas dental practice for 22 years, conceived Christina’s Smile Children’s Dental Clinic in 1989.
Eighteen local dentists and dental assistants volunteer their time and talents to deliver high quality dental care to 120 South-Western students during the three-day clinic. Approximately $50-$60,000 worth of free dentistry is delivered during each three-day clinic. This year, the clinic served its 1000th South-Western student.
Click here for the full story.
Congratulations Class of 2011! We're proud of you! |
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2011 SWCS PTA Scholarship Awards
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The PTA units in the South-Western City Schools PTA Council have generously supported the graduating seniors of the South-Western City School District for more than four decades.
Click here for the full 2011 scholarship listing.
Park Street Intermediate Student Earns First Place Award at Central Ohio 15th Regional Invention Convention
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Congratulations to Park Street 6th grader Taylor Brokaw, who took first place in the 6th grade category of Central Ohio 15th Regional Invention Convention, for his invention "Parking Flag," flags empty parking spaces.
Click here to view the press release.
South-Western Board and OAPSE Reach Agreement
On Monday, May 23, 2011, the South-Western City School District Board of Education voted to enter into a new contract with Ohio Association of Public School Employees Local 211 (OAPSE). OAPSE membership includes approximately 900 classified support personnel.
The previous contract ended June 30, 2010. The Board and OAPSE began the negotiations process in the Spring of 2010. The new agreement takes effect immediately and will expire June 30, 2013. OAPSE members met on Saturday, May 21, 2011 to accept the Board’s latest proposal.
Click here for more details..
2011 PRIDE Awards
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The South-Western City School District Board of Education is honored to host this special event to recognize the many accomplishments of its high school students. These students represent some of the finest young women and men in the State of Ohio. They have demonstrated their excellence in the areas of academics, athletics, visual and performing arts, leadership, technical skills, and recognized awards of distinction.
Click here to view a copy of the event program and list of awards.
Buckeye Woods 4th Grade Farmers
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2011 Employee Awards Recognition Night
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Westland Student Earns National Award
Congratulations to Westland High School sophomore Jiewen Wu, who has been chosen as one of only three high school students across the country to be named a Scholastic Read 180 All Star for 2011! Jiewen is the first student in Ohio to become a Read 180 All Star. This national award also honors Jiewen’s parents and the fine job they have done instilling the value of education in their son. The award carries with it $1,200 for Jiewen and a $1,000 credit for his teacher Dr. Victoria Blubaugh.
More information on the program and Jiewen Wu can be found at: http://mediaroom.scholastic.com/node/448
SWCS Bus Driver Places First in Regional Road-E-O
Congratulations to South-Western School Bus Driver DeDe Colley, who placed first in the Regional Road-E-O on Saturday, May 7, 2011. She scored 698 out of a possible 725 points to take the title.
Westland Teacher Receives Panera Rising Above Award
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Westland High School teacher Melissa Kendralla received a Panera Bread Rising Above Award of $500. She was nominated by 11th grade student Sinai Cruz-Santos, who noted, "She is giving to the community, outstanding personality and understanding with her students." Ms. Kendralla is the Key Club Advisor, Senior DECA Advisor and a Kiwanian. Congratulations Ms. Kendralla and Westland High School!
Congratulations to Ohio PTA District 10 Award Winners
Congratulations to Ohio PTA District 10 Award Winners Buckeye Woods' Krista Joyce (Outstanding Educator) and Central Crossing's Denise Carmichael (Helping Hands Recipient) for being honored at the Ohio PTA Convention. They were nominated for their awards by parents in their schools.
Congratulations to Barrie Timmins, 2011 Ohio PTA School Nurse of the Year
Congratulations to Barrie Timmins, the 2011 Ohio PTA School Nurse of the Year. Nurse Timmins was honored at the Ohio PTA Convention on April 10. She was nominated for the award by Stiles Elementary School.
Board Members receive Awards of Achievement
SWCS Board President Mindy Garverick, Vice President Randy Reisling and Member Cathy Johnson received the Award of Achievement from the Ohio School Boards Association at the Central Ohio Regional Conference. This Award is in recognition of their commitment to training and leadership activities on their board, regionally and statewide.
South-Western PTA Council Honors Reflections Participants
The South-Western Council of PTAs held its Annual Reflections Recognition Program on March 22. More than 100 students were honored for their Reflections projects. For nearly 40 years, Reflections has challenged millions of students across the nation and in American schools overseas to create works of art inspired by a specific theme. This year the theme was “Together We Can…”
Students in preschool through grade 12 are encouraged to create and submit works of art in six areas: dance choreography, film production, literature, musical composition, photography, and the visual arts (art forms such as drawing, painting, print making, and collage). Entries are submitted through local PTAs/PTSAs. The PTA Reflections Program is designed to enhance a quality arts education by providing an opportunity for students to explore their artistic talents and receive positive recognition for their efforts. Next year the theme will be “Diversity means…”
Click here to view the recognition video from the South-Western Council of PTAs.
South-Western Board and Teachers Association Reach Agreement
On Monday, March 21, 2011, the South-Western City School District Board of Education voted to enter into a new contract with the South-Western Education Association (SWEA). SWEA membership encompasses approximately 1,400 certificated staff, which includes teachers, guidance counselors, nurses, psychologists, and tutors.
Click here for more information.
South-Western Schools Receive Anticipated TIF Monies
Click here for more information.
School Bell Award Recipients
Congratulations to the following staff members honored with School Bell Awards at the March BOE meeting: Suzanna Caperton (Spanish teacher at WHS), Denise Harper (7th grade math teacher at JMS), Eric Hubbell (asst. band director at CCHS), Matt Morgan (6th grade teacher at Hayes) and Cindy Zellefrow (school nurse).
For more information on School Bell Awards, click here.
GCHS Junior selected to film 2011 Arnold Classic Strongman Event
GCHS Junior, Austin Dague, was hired by American Strongman Corporation to film their Strongman event at the 2011 Arnold Classic. His video will soon be available at americanstrongman.com.
GCHS Senior wins "Best Student Documentary" at Arnold Classic
GCHS Senior Colin Hopkins won "Best Student Documentary" in the documentary film festival at the Arnold Classic on Sunday, March 6, 2011. Congratulations Colin!
Archie Griffin reads at Prairie Norton
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As part of their 2011 Read Across America celebration, OSU's two-time Heisman Trophy winner and Hall of Fame member Archie Griffin read to students at Prairie Norton Elementary School.
GCHS Students Qualify for OHSAA State Competition
GCHS students Jose and Angela Hughes qualified for OHSAA State competition. Angela will compete in vault at the State Gymnastics Meet-March 5 at 12:30 pm-Hilliard Bradley H.S. Jose will compete in the 160 lb. weight class at the State Wrestling Meet on March 3 at 5:45 pm at the Jerome Schottenstein Center. Angela & Jose are the son and daughter of Judy and Darryl Hughes of Grove City.
Grove City High School Orchestra Earns Top Rating at State Contest
Congratulations to the Grove City High School Orchestra for their superior rating at the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) State Adjudicated Event, held last Friday, February 25th at Granville High School. The orchestra performed in class “A” (the highest classification with the most difficult music) and was awarded the top mark for their technical preparation and artistic interpretation of the music.
The orchestra performed as a full orchestra, meaning the ensemble included strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion. This was the third consecutive superior rating in the highest class for the orchestra. Over the past two years, Grove City was one of only five full orchestras in the state of Ohio to earn the top rating in class “A”.
The group’s contest repertoire included Johann Sebastian Bach's "Fugue No. 23", Aaron Copland's "Variations on a Shaker Melody", and Reinhold Gliere's "Russian Sailors' Dance".
The orchestra’s next public performance will be at the annual spring concert at Grove City High School on Thursday, May 26th at 7:00pm. For more information, please contact orchestra director, Tom Traini at 614-801-3343 or thomas.traini@swcs.us.
27th Annual Westland JROTC Invitational Drill Meet
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Sixteen JROTC units participated in the 27th Annual Westland JROTC Invitational Drill Meet at Westland High School. Congressman Steve Stivers assisted in the awards presentation.
January & February 2011 News Shorts
PTAs Honor Helping Hands Recipients
On Tuesday, February 22, 2011, the South-Western Council of PTAs and its member units honored the 2011 Helping Hands recipients from across the South-Western City School District. Recipients of the award are actively involved with their local PTA unit and have made a positive impact on the lives of children through activities involving children and youth. The 2011 recipients by PTA unit are:
Central Crossing High School................................................................. Denise Carmichael
Franklin Heights High School................................................................... Toni Dryden
Grove City High School............................................................................ Alex Molnar
Westland High School............................................................................. Linda Cultice
South-Western Career Academy............................................................ Dee Dee Plotts
Brookpark Middle School......................................................................... Laura Donovan
Finland Middle School.............................................................................. Linda Jones
Jackson Middle School............................................................................ Terry Withers
Norton Middle School............................................................................... Jamie Jones
Pleasant View Middle School................................................................... Karen Sever
Franklin Woods Intermediate School...................................................... Michelle Phillips
Galloway Ridge Intermediate School....................................................... Karen Rogers
Hayes Intermediate School...................................................................... Sheri Parr
Holt Crossing Intermediate School.......................................................... Michele Schrecengost
Park Street Intermediate School.............................................................. Troy Miller
Alton Hall Elementary School.................................................................. Marcy Sink
Buckeye Woods Elementary School....................................................... Thomas Pellior
Darbydale Elementary School................................................................. Jane Goodwin
Darby Woods Elementary School........................................................... Jenny Paskvan
East Franklin Elementary School............................................................ D.J. Ferguson
Finland Elementary School...................................................................... Anissia Goodwin
Harmon Elementary School.................................................................... Melissa O’Neal
Highland Park Elementary School........................................................... Jen Jimison
Monterey Elementary School................................................................... Crystal Jensen
North Franklin Elementary School........................................................... Stefanie Panning
Prairie Lincoln Elementary School.......................................................... Julie Belcher
Prairie Norton Elementary School........................................................... Jennifer Remick
Richard Avenue Elementary School........................................................ Michael Woods
J.C. Sommer Elementary School............................................................ Wendy Baker
Stiles Elementary School........................................................................ Jody Matthews
West Franklin Elementary School........................................................... Steve DeFide
South-Western Preschool....................................................................... Jennifer Merritt
2011 District Spelling Bee Winners
Fifty students representing ten South-Western schools were invited to compete in the 2011 District Spelling Bee, held at Pleasant View Middle School on February 10. The contest was open to the district’s intermediate and middle school students, with each school sending its top five spellers.
In the final round of competition, Said Ahmed, an eighth grader from Norton Middle School, earned the title of Grand Champion Speller by correctly spelling the word “pyrite.” Said will represent the South-Western City School District at the 2011 Sheridan WorldWise Regional Spelling Bee at Centennial High School on March 5.
Jordan Wilt, a sixth grader from Park Street Intermediate School, earned the runner-up title. The following students earned Top 10 status in the spelling bee: Toby Giwa and Theresa Gast from Franklin Woods Intermediate School, Tyler Frazier from Finland Middle School, William Peterson, Johnay Florence and Cierra Snodgres from Norton Middle School, Taylor Townsend from Park Street Intermediate School, and Mason Fansler from Galloway Ridge Intermediate School.
The 2011 South-Western City Schools Spelling Bee was coordinated by Gary Rawson, the assistant principal of Holt Crossing Intermediate School. Finland Middle School Language Arts teacher Barry Alcock served as the pronouncer and the judges for the event were Diane Mankins, Executive Director of Middle Grades and Achievement Data, and Dr. John Kellogg, Executive Director of Secondary Education.
2011 DECA Competition State Qualifiers
Business Professionals of America Competition State Qualifiers
GCHS Music Students Earn High Ratings at OMEA Contest
WHS Ohio Arts Day Advocacy Team
On Monday, February 7, State Representative Grossman and two representatives from the Ohio Citizens for the Arts Foundation visited Westland High School to meet with students who were selected to represent WHS on May 11th at the Ohio Arts Day at the State Capital. After receiving a letter drafted by visual arts teacher, Jan Mulhern, Westland was chosen to be one out of eight advocacy teams from across the state to participate in Ohio Arts Day. Students discussed their roles as arts advocates and what it meant to work with law makers and government to promote the arts.
Pictured above, from left to right are: Back row; David Leist, Andrew Rogers, Jan Mulhern, Principal Kathryn Buckerfield and Sandy Bacon.
Front row: Guadalupe Revilla, Katie Dye, Emily Akopyan, Eric Heinsen, Representative Cheryl Grossman, Edicson Gonzalez and Janelle Hallett.
GCHS Graduate to Represent Team USA at World Cheerleading Championships
Grove City graduate and Ohio State Cheerleader Brittany Maynard has been selected to represent Team USA at the 2011 World Cheerleading Championships. Brittany and Ohio State teammate Cassie Benfield will be part of the 13 woman and 20 man roster to compete April 20 in Orlando, FL. In addition, Brittany and Cassie were the only two Big 10 cheerleaders selected to represent Team USA. Brittany is the daughter of Dwayne and Lavon Maynard of Grove City.
Sandra Bacon Demonstrates Master Teacher Excellence
Westland High School art teacher Sandra Bacon was honored at the January 24 school board meeting for achieving Master Teacher status. She joins the 43 other SWCS Ohio Master Teachers.
A Master Teacher demonstrates excellence inside and outside of the classroom through consistent leadership and focused collaboration to maximize student learning. Ohio Senate Bill 2 directed the Educator Standards Board to define a master teacher and to adopt criteria to use in determining whether a person is a master teacher. A Master Teacher strives for distinguished teaching and continues professional growth as specified by the Ohio Standards for the Teaching Profession.
Patty Casteel Achieves National Board Certification
Galloway Ridge Intermediate School teacher Patty Casteel was honored at the January 24 school board meeting for achieving National Board Certification. She joins the other 30 SWCS National Board Certified Teachers and more than 8,600 teachers nationwide who achieved National Board Certification in 2010.
National Board Certification is achieved through a rigorous performance-based assessment that typically takes one to three years to complete. National Board Certified Teachers have successfully demonstrated advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices.
Student Achievers Program Kick-Off at Buckeye Woods Elementary School
Student Achievers program kick-off at Buckeye Woods Elementary School
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The Columbus Blue Jackets, in conjunction with Bob Evans Restaurants, launched the team’s new Student Achiever’s Program at Buckeye Woods Elementary School. The program encourages scholastic excellence, civic responsibility and perseverance by rewarding students with free tickets to an upcoming Blue Jackets home game at Nationwide Arena.
The program was introduced at an assembly for more than 700 students with Blue Jackets Head Coach Scott Arniel, Blue Jackets forward R.J. Umberger and Bob Evans Vice President of Marketing Mike Agee. Blue Jackets team mascot Stinger and Bob Evan’s mascots Biscuit and Gravy were also on hand to launch the program.
South-Western Adopts Paperless Meeting Technology
SWCS Board Member Cathy Johnson Installed as 2011 President of OSBA
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SWCS Art Teacher Awarded Doctor of Philosophy Degree
 SWCS Art Teacher Camilla McComb was awarded the Doctor of Philosophy degree from Penn State University. Dr. McComb’s dissertation, titled “Think, Record, Reveal: Studio Process Assessment and the Artistic Thinking it Reveals,” focuses upon the artistic thinking of sixth graders. |
GCHS Music Students Named to 2010 Ohio Music Education Association All State Band
The following Grove City High School students have been named to the 2010 Ohio Music Education Association’s All State Band: Ben McMurray (trumpet), Syndi Penney (bass clarinet), Will England (alto sax), Hillary Hobbs (oboe), and Emily Mulvany (oboe).
SWCA Culinary Arts Students Participate in Gingerbread Event
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The SWCA Culinary Arts students participated in the St. Stephen’s Community House 15th Annual Gingerbread House Event at Jefferson Country Club. Students worked in groups to assemble a gingerbread village, featuring a festive carousel in the center of town with gingerbread horses, evergreen trees, snowmen and gifts. The entry was sponsored by a local company, which donated $1,000 to St. Stephen’s on behalf of SWCA.
WHS AFJROTC Pearl Harbor Day Rememberance Ceremony
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The WHS AFJROTC held its Annual Pearl Harbor Day Remembrance Ceremony in the courtyard. The guest speaker was Joe Wells, a WWII Veteran and Grove City resident.
Former GCHS Soccer Star is having a Great Year with the Cardinals
Former Grove City High School soccer star J.T. Murray (starting midfielder) is having a great senior year for the Louisville Cardinals. Having earlier attained Big East Player of the Week honors, the Cardinals defeated Ohio State last night 2-1 to reach the Div. 1 NCAA Soccer Quarterfinals. The #1 ranked Cardinals (18-0-3) host UCLA 12/4 @ 7:00 pm. You can follow J.T. and his Louisville team @ www.uoflsports.com.
Reflection’s Program Art Show 2010-2011: “Together We Can”
Thursday, January 13, 2011 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.,
South-Western Career Academy, 4750 Big Run Road South, Grove City
This event will showcase Visual Art & Photography entries created by students in your school and in our District.
PEOPLES CHOICE AWARD:
Come out and vote for your favorite Visual Art & Photography pieces.
Hospitality Marketing Takes New York!
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Eleven South-Western Career Academy (SWCA) Hospitality Marketing students attended the DECA New York Experience to learn about the hospitality industry firsthand. Students participated in a Disney Theatre Marketing Workshop, Financial Literacy Presentation, and a Dave & Buster’s Advertising and Promotional Workshop, where they created a new commercial for D&Bs – SWCA won!
Students put the following areas of their curriculum to the test: travel safety, air travel, accommodations, ground travel, U.S. landmarks, marketing promotion and advertising, financial literacy, budgeting, and map and directional reading. The students travelled by plane, boat, shuttle, taxi, subway and on foot as part of their hands-on curriculum.
Central Ohio School Board Member to Become President of State Association
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Current Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA) President-elect Cathy Johnson will become the new OSBA president on Jan. 1, 2011.
Johnson has been a South-Western City Schools board member for nine years, serving two years as board president and one year as vice president.
The veteran board member has held a host of OSBA leadership positions. She serves on the OSBA Central Region Executive Committee and was that region’s president in 2007. She has represented her region on the OSBA Board of Trustees, Executive Committee, Federal Relations Network, Legislative Platform Committee, Urban Commission and Conference Planning Committee. She also served on the association’s Visionary Initiatives for Strategic Action long-range planning team.<More>
South-Western City Schools’ Food Services Supervisor Earns Statewide School Business Management Award
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The Ohio Association of School Business Officials (OASBO) recently announced Beth Glitt of the South-Western City School District as the 2010 Foundation For School Business Management’s “Outstanding Food & Nutrition Director of the Year.” The Foundation Awards, now in their 25th year, were created by OASBO’s Foundation for School Business Management trustees to recognize the accomplishments of Ohio’s public school business officials.
Award nominees across four categories (Business Operations Manager of the Year, Food & Nutrition Supervisor of the Year, Treasurer of the Year, and Transportation Director of the Year) are judged on their service to their school system, their profession, and their community.
Glitt has demonstrated over two decades of extraordinary service to two central Ohio school districts and their communities, the past seven years at South-Western City Schools (SWCS). Under her leadership as Food Service Supervisor at SWCS, with a focus on professional development and staff empowerment, Glitt transformed an unprofitable department into a self-sustaining, profitable one.<More>
Central Crossing High School, Grove City High School, Westland High School, and Franklin Heights High School perform the Fight Song finale at the 2010 South-Western City Schools Marching Band Showcase, held on Thursday, October 21.
Click here to view the videoCentral Crossing High School performs at the 2010 South-Western City Schools Marching Band Showcase, held on Thursday, October 21.
Click here to view the videoGrove City High School performs at the 2010 South-Western City Schools Marching Band Showcase, held on Thursday, October 21.
Click here to view the videoWestland High School performs at the 2010 South-Western City Schools Marching Band Showcase, held on Thursday, October 21.
Click here to view the videoFranklin Heights High School performs at the 2010 South-Western City Schools Marching Band Showcase, held on Thursday, October 21.
Click here to view the videoConversations with the Community, Thursday November 11 at 7:00p.m. at Finland Middle School
Topic: It's Academic!
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Student Achievement on Local Report Cards. State Testing. Academic Planning. What does it all mean for our schools and what do we want student learning to look like in the future?
Thursday, November 11, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.
All SWCS Community Members Welcome!
Finland Middle School Cafeteria
1825 Finland Avenue, Columbus
Questions? Please call the Communications Office at 801-3027.
Cross in View, It's the Right Thing To Do
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National School Bus Safety Week October 18-22, 2010
OSBA thanks Mindy Garverick for service
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At the October 11 Board meeting, School Board Vice President Mindy Garverick was presented with a plaque from the Ohio School Boards Association thanking her for her contributions as a member of the Board of Trustees, the association's governing body. OSBA Chief Legal Counsel Hollie F. Reedy presented the plaque.
School Board honors Nathaniel Combs
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Central Crossing High School senior Nathaniel Combs has been named a Semifinalist in the 2011 National Merit Scholarship Program. About 1.5 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools entered the program by taking the 2009 preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). Nate is one of approximately 16,000 academically talented Semifinalists in the 56th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
To be considered for a Merit Scholarship Award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition. Nate is currently preparing his application to be considered for the honor of National Merit Finalist as he competes for one of 8,400 scholarships worth more than $36 million offered next spring.
Dr. Wise received OSBA Central Region Award
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South-Western City School District Superintendent Dr. Bill Wise was awarded the Ohio School Boards Association 2010 Central Region Outstanding School Employee Award at its Fall Conference. Pictured from L-R: Rick Lewis, OSBA Executive Director, Dr. Wise, SWCS School Board members Karen Dover, Mindy Garverick, Cathy Johnson and Randy Reisling.
Captain Tom Lennon presented with the Golden Eagle Award
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On Wednesday, September 29, Colonel Charles Fisher, US Army (ret) presented the Golden Eagle Award to Franklin Heights High School NJROTC Naval Science Instructor Captain Tom Lennon, US Navy (ret) on behalf of the Military Order of the World Wars. The Award is in recognition and appreciation of outstanding performance of duty during the period of 2000-2010. Captain Lennon’s leadership and executive abilities have resulted in high academic cadet grades and benefits to the nation and to world security.
Mr. Rick Isbell, representing Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman, presented Captain Lennon with a Certificate of Recognition for his service to the community and leadership skills in developing young men and women’s careers.
Ms. Katherine Colburn, Honorary State Region of Ohio President of the Daughters of the American Revolution, presented Captain Lennon with the Honor Legacy Award in honor of his distinguished Military Service. Ms. Robin Lee Rose, President of the Columbus Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, presented Captain Lennon with a Rainbow Wishes plaque in honor and thanking him for his service and personal sacrifice for our nation.
Also present to honor Captain Lennon were:
- Captain Jack Kennedy, Past National President, US Navy League
- Paul Baldrich, Regional President, Navy League
- Captain George Williams, Reserve Officers Association
- Ms. Donna Boyd, Daughters of the American Revolution
- Mr. Jim Johnson, VFW, Vice president Armed Forces Council, inductee in the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame
- SWCS Board Vice President Mindy Garverick
- SWCS Superintendent Dr. Bill Wise
September 27, 2010
State School Board of Education member Kristen McKinley presents the district's EXCELLENT report card rating banner to the SWCS Board of Education.
School Board Meeting Recognition
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Congratulations to the following SWCS teachers who were recognized at the September 13 School Board meeting: New National Board Certified Teachers - Rachel Emans (Darbydale), Jean Lampe (Holt Crossing), Lisa Robinette (Richard Avenue) and Julie Willis (GCHS). New Master Teachers – Susan Barte (J.C. Sommer), Victoria Blubaugh (WHS), Janine Conway (Darbydale), Rachel Emans (Darbydale), Kathleen Gaynor (Finland Elementary), Delphenia Hardin (East Franklin), Suzanne Jones (Pleasant View), Jean Lampe (Holt Crossing), Gywn McGraw Smith (CCHS), Lisa Robinette (Richard Avenue), and Julie Willis (GCHS). |
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Congratulations to Darbydale Elementary School, J.C. Sommer Elementary School and Hayes Intermediate School for earning the rating of EXCELLENT WITH DISTINCTION on their 2010 Local Report Card! Buildings rated Excellent and Effective on their Local Report Cards were recognized at the School Board meeting on September 13! Congratulations to everyone for their hard work! |
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On behalf of Citizens for SWCS, Rick Redfern presented the school board with a $2,000 check to support middle school and high school students participating service clubs at their schools. |
GCHS Senior Named Dispatch Player of the Week, September 11, 2010
Congratulations to GCHS Senior Volleyball player Ellen Conti, named Dispatch Player of the Week on September 11, 2010. Conti, a senior outside hitter, had 42 kills as the Greyhounds went 3-0. She had 12 against Reynoldsburg, 13 against Groveport and 17 against Central Crossing. She had 12 digs, two aces, three blocks, two block assists and a 93.8 serve receive percentage. The team currently has a record of 6-0!
South-Western Administrators and School Board Reach Agreement
Grove City Announces the Opening of the Grove City Center for Higher Education This Fall
The City of Grove City announces the opening of the Grove City Center for Higher Education this fall. The institutions involved have come together to provide a broad base of educational opportunities not available through a single institution.
A grand opening ribbon cutting and education fair will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 17 at the South-Western Career Academy, 4750 Big Run South Road. The education fair will provide an opportunity for people to speak with representatives from each school about future classes and curriculum. <More>
CCHS Teacher Inspires Students with Her Fight - ONN Teacher of the Month
CCHS Teacher Jodi Brown inspired hundreds of students to put on pink wigs, plan a surprise assembly and hand-deliver pink carnations. <More>
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PTA Awards 72 Scholarships to Graduating SWCS Seniors
On Tuesday, May 25 the South-Western Council of PTAs, its PTA units, the South-Western Administrators Association and the Columbus-Grove City Elks Lodge #37 awarded scholarships to 72 graduating seniors from Westland (WHS), Grove City (GCHS), Franklin Heights (FHHS), and Central Crossing (CCHS) High Schools. Many of the scholarships were awarded in honor of individuals and groups that have contributed significantly to the students’ successes.
Pleasant View Middle School Student Places 4th in the State in the 2010 Power of the Pen Competition
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Congratulations to Pleasant View Middle School seventh grader Sarah Wright for placing 4th in the State in the 2010 Power of the Pen competition. More than 7,000 students began competing at the district levels with 600 advancing to the state competition. Sarah's entry can be found Three schools receive ARRA Title II-D Grants for 2010-2011 school year
eTech Ohio and the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) announced the 48 recipients of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Title II-D Round 2 Competitive Grants for the 2010-2011 school year. Franklin Heights High School, Pleasant View Middle School and Westland High School received three of the 48 grants awarded. Finland Middle School was awarded a grant in ARRA Title II-D Round 1.
The purpose of these grants is to update the infrastructure and technology in the four buildings and provide teachers professional development opportunities to learn how to integrate technology and 21st century skills into daily classroom activities.
The ARRA provides states with funds for Education Technology State grants, which fall under the statutes of the Title II-D Enhancing Education through Technology Program.
Through sustained, collaborative, job-embedded professional development and the use of research-based methods, school teams from each awarded building will experience new models and strategies for teaching and learning. Teachers will become facilitators and co-learners and create technology-enabled learning environments helping students develop 21st century skills.
For a complete list of grant recipients and more information, please visit www.etech.ohio.gov/go/arra.
Congratulations to the CCHS 2010 National Honor Society Inductees
Congratulations to the CCHS 2010 National Honor Society Inductees: Rachel Aitchison, Emmaleigh Ballard, Sally Beaver, John Borror, Madison Bostard, Kristen Buelow, Rachel Dorsey, Samantha Edwards, Alyssa Justus, Inna Kunitskaya, Caleb Long, Taylor Mathews, Esther Mburu, Corey Meyer, Jennifer Meyer, Khadar Mohamed, Dianna Molla, Mackenzie Mosley, Ally Page, Mikala Shimmel, Wesley Slack, Nathaniel Sultemeier, Abigail Tanner, Andrea Vannoy, Bethany Ward, Katherine White, and Seth Wieging.
The Columbus Dispatch - South-Western Plans to Cut 49 More Jobs - April 13, 2010
http://www.dispatchpolitics.com/
NBC4i.com - School District Finds Success Educating Foreign-Born Students - April 13, 2010
The Columbus Dispatch - OSU-West Franklin Elementary School Partnership - April 8, 2010
http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/local_news/stories/2010/04/08/a-taste-of-college.html
Melissa Lindsey is Zonta Club Outstanding Young Woman
CCHS senior Melissa Lindsey was selected as one of twelve Zonta Club of Columbus Outstanding Young Women in Central Ohio for 2010. Zonta International is a global organization of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy. This award honors young women who have shown leadership in serving their school and community.
Governor’s Regional Art Exhibit
The following GCHS students will have their work displayed at the Ohio Governor’s Regional Art Exhibit including the May 1st Gallery Hop from 4-10 p.m.: Corey Reeb and Becca Belcher each have two photographs on display; and Amber Hoop and Kaitlyn Zwayer each have one photograph on display. The Gallery Hop will be held at the Catacombs Gallery located in the Short North area.
Power of the Pen Regional Competition
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On the 8th grade Power of the Pen team from Pleasant View Middle School, including Hannah Chipps, Sarah Chipps, Anna Dick, Meryl Fowler, Delaney Brochowski and Brittany Stegall, took FIRST PLACE at the regional competition against 29 other schools in Central Ohio. Anna Dick was also an individual FIRST PLACE winner and seventh grader Sarah Wright took 11th place. |
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Artist Dale Chihuly’s artwork has inspired fifth graders at Hayes Intermediate School create their own papier-mâché sculpture to be included in the schools’ “Chihuly-like” organic installation sculpture. Parents and members of the community were invited to see the unveiling of this sculpture Thursday, March 25 as they attended an evening dedicated to Chihuly. The Hayes Intermediate new 5th grade orchestra and 6th grade orchestra performed A Colorful Evening to images of Chihuly. As a follow-up to the unveiling, fifth graders will be taking a field trip to the Franklin Park Conservatory where they will have a chance to see Dale Chihuly’s glass sculptures in person.
The South-Western Council of PTAs honors its Reflections Program winners
The South-Western Council of PTAs honored its Reflections Program winners. The 2010 theme was "Beauty is..." The PTA Reflections Program provides opportunities for students to express themselves and to receive positive recognition for their artistic efforts. Students in preschool through grade 12 are encouraged to create and submit works of art in six areas: dance choreography, film production, literature, musical composition, photography and visual arts (which includes drawing, painting, print making and collage). <View the whole list of winners>
The Columbus Dispatch - Editorial: South-Western's challenge: State audit is a road map for change in difficult times
http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/editorials/stories/2010/03/22/south-westerns-challenge.html
Johnson Earns National Recognition
Cathy Johnson, a board member for the South-Western City Schools, was recognized in the National School Boards Association’s National School Board Member Recognition Program at one of the association’s regional spring conferences.
The conference took place at the Villa Milano Banquet Center, in Columbus, on
March 17.
SWCA Greenscape Program Announces Spring Mulch and Plant Sale
Norton Middle School Students are Finalists in NASA WLMR Design Challenge
Norton Middle School students Michael Williams, Kris Davies, Corey Stewart, Giann Martinez and Sasha Bouaroy are finalists in NASA's Waste Limitation Management and Recycling Design Challenge. Their water filter system is called Project K.L.E.A.N. Click here to read a full description of their project.
It's not a matter of if, but when South-Western schools can implement most of the recommendations outlined in last month's state performance audit, officials said at last night's board meeting. <Read the whole article>
Westland Art Club provides art supplies for Head Start Program
The Westland Art Club recently painted storybook characters on large wooden boxes for the Norton Headstart Program. The boxes were filled with donated art materials from students, staff, and the Crossroad Program at Westland. Each of the three preschool classes received a colorful box of art supplies. The Art Club participates in many community service projects throughout the year.
Operation Medicine Drop: Medication Disposal Event Saturday, April 17, 2010
The abuse of prescription and over-the-counter drugs is a threat across the nation.
The City of Grove City, Grove City Police, Jackson Township Fire Department and Keep Grove City Beautiful will host Operation Medicine Drop, a medication disposal event, to provide a safe and legal way for residents to dispose of expired and unwanted prescription and over-the-counter medications. The Grove City Police will dispose of these medications in a safe, legal and environmentally-conscious manner.
Saturday, April 17 • 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Tosoh, SMD • 3600 Gantz Road, Grove City
Let's keep our children safe
• Every day, 2,500 teenagers use a prescription drug to get high for the first time.
• 64% of children ages 12-17 who have abused pain relievers say they got them from their friends or relatives, typically without their knowledge.
• 60% of teens who have abused prescription painkillers did so before age 15.
Statistics provided by The Partnership for a Drug-Free America
No Questions asked.
grovecityohio.gov 614-277-1100
Grove City High School Orchestra Earns Top Rating at State Contest
The Grove City High School Orchestra earned a superior rating at the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) State Adjudicated Event, held Friday, February 26th at Thomas Worthington High School. The orchestra performed in class “A” (the highest classification with the most difficult music) and was awarded the top mark for their technical preparation and artistic interpretation of the music.
The orchestra performed as a full orchestra, meaning the ensemble included strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion. This was the second consecutive superior rating in the highest class for the orchestra; last year, Grove City was one of only five full orchestras in the state of Ohio to earn the top rating in class “A”.
The group’s contest repertoire included Franz Schubert’s Military March No. 1, James Barnes’ Yorkshire Ballad, and Gioachino Rossini’s Overture to The Barber of Seville.
The orchestra’s next public performance will be at the annual spring concert at Grove City High School on Thursday, May 20.
PTA Council Honors Helping Hands and Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients
The South-Western Council of PTAs hosted its annual Helping Hands Award Celebration on Tuesday, February 23 at Jackson Middle School. The PTA Council awarded Ohio PTA Lifetime Achievement Awards to Immediate Past PTA Council President Kerrie Marshall and Finland Middle School teacher and SWCS parent Mary Mulvany for their continued support of PTA and the children of the South-Western City Schools.
Helping Hands Award recipients from the council’s member units were honored for their work with children in each building and also at the Council/District level. The 2010 Helping Hands Award recipients are:
School/PTA |
Helping Hands Award Recipient |
South-Western Council of PTAs |
Jill Billman-Royer |
Central Crossing High School |
Rebecca Fox |
Franklin Heights High School |
Deborah Kakos |
Grove City High School |
Mark Mayers |
Westland High School |
Mary Dye |
South-Western Career Academy |
Mindy Dunkle |
Brookpark Middle School |
Paula Taliaferro |
Finland Middle School |
Bill Wildman |
Jackson Middle School |
Alice Kinsinger |
Norton Middle School |
Sue Mulford |
Pleasant View Middle School |
Rhonda Coup |
Franklin Woods Intermediate School |
Kim Carey |
Galloway Ridge Intermediate School |
Jamie Jones |
Hayes Intermediate School |
Jo Jones |
Holt Crossing Intermediate School |
Terry Hickey |
Park Street Intermediate School |
Carol Smith |
Alton Hall Elementary School |
Dallas C. Clawson |
Buckeye Woods Elementary School |
Melissa Shoultz |
Darby Woods Elementary School |
John A. Detty |
Darbydale Elementary School |
Rhonda Hendership |
East Franklin Elementary School |
Angie Johnson |
Finland Elementary School |
Angel Ball |
Harmon Elementary School |
Elizabeth Reasch |
Highland Park Elementary School |
Dawn Scott |
Monterey Elementary School |
Jill Banghoff |
North Franklin Elementary School |
Traylene Hutchinson |
Prairie Lincoln Elementary School |
Autumn Mundy |
Prairie Norton Elementary School |
Brandi heimbush |
Richard Avenue Elementary School |
Lisa Chatfield |
J.C. Sommer Elementary School |
Paul Ewald |
Stiles Elementary School |
Jody Matthews |
Darby Woods Student has Artwork Accepted into Youth Art Month Exhibition
Darby Woods second grader Madison Keirns had a piece of artwork accepted into the Youth Art Month Exhibition at the State Teachers Retirement Building. Only 168 pieces of artwork from across Ohio were selected for this honor.
Franklin Heights Students Selected for Buckeye Boys State
The following Franklin Heights students were selected by the American Legion Don Gentile post 532 to attend Buckeye Boys State this June at Bowling Green State University: Delegates – Joe Teague and Hunter Swackhammer, Alternates – Eddie Kayira and MarShawn McCarrell, Chairman – Jerry Bryan. Buckeye Boys State is a nine-day course in self-government where participants learn more about how city, county, and state government functions.
Franklin Heights Students Selected for Buckeye Girls State
The following Franklin Heights students were selected by the American Legion Auxiliary to attend Buckeye Girls State in June at Ashland University: Delegates – Julie Nolen and Alexandria Caplinger, Alternates – Rachel Sheets and Ty Shaw, Chairman – Gladys Caudill. Buckeye Girls State is a week long course designed to educate Ohio’s young women in the duties, privileges, rights and responsibilities of good citizenship.
Students and Staff have work published in OAGC Review
Hayes Intermediate School sixth grade students James Lawless and Emily Hirth had poems published in the Ohio Association for Gifted Children Review, Winter 2010 edition. This same edition contains an article entitled, Gifted Girls, Society and Classroom Implications written by Hayes staff member Karen Cook.
Thirty-Two South-Western Students Qualify for State DECA Competition
On Wednesday, February 3, one hundred eighty-four students from Central Crossing, Franklin Heights, Grove City and Westland High Schools in the South-Western City School District participated in the District 15 DECA Competition at COSI. Of those 184 students, 80 trophies were awarded to South-Western students and 32 students qualified for the state competition to be held on March 19 and 20 at the Columbus Convention Center.
The Franklin Heights High School Marketing Technology School Store has been awarded Gold Level Re-Certification for 2010. The students will receive this award at the DECA National Conference in Louisville, Kentucky later this Spring.
DECA is the National Career-Technical Student Organization for Marketing programs.
The following South-Western City School District students qualified for the state DECA competition:
Name |
Contest |
School |
| Savanna Huntzinger | Sports and Entertainment Marketing Series | CCHS |
| Bryce Gattshall | Math and Communications Test | CCHS |
| Zach Munsey | Math and Communications Test | CCHS |
| Brian Nontell | Restaurant and Food Service Series | CCHS |
| Adrienne Swartz | Marketing Management Test | CCHS |
| Josh Daft | Sports and Entertainment Team | FHHS |
| Greg Hardiman | Sports and Entertainment Team | FHHS |
| Heather Saroiberry | Technical Sales | FHHS |
| Sean Bates | Food Marketing Series | FHHS |
| Marcus Hopkins | Automotive Service Series | FHHS |
| Dalton Hampshire | Business Services Series | FHHS |
| Keith West | Marketing Management Series | FHHS |
| Brooke Bell | Fashion Merchandising | FHHS |
| Shelby Skaggs | Fashion Merchandising | FHHS |
| Eisha Jones | Fashion Merchandising | FHHS |
| Amber Remaly | Fashion Merchandising | FHHS |
| Tom Brooks | Principles of Business Administration | FHHS |
| Brianna Long | Principles of Finance | FHHS |
| James Cervi | Entrepreneurship Participating | GCHS |
| Chelsea Muir | Apparel and Accessories Series | GCHS |
| Brittany Hull | Restaurant and Food Services | GCHS |
| Kaila Donahue | Buying and Merchandising Mgt. Team | GCHS |
| Daniel Jones | Buying and Merchandising Mgt. Team | GCHS |
| Michael Wyatt | Travel and Tourism Mgt. Team | GCHS |
| Justin Schaffer | Travel and Tourism Mgt. Team | GCHS |
| Zachary Cochran | Principles of Hospitality and Tourism | GCHS |
| Michael Ibanez | Advertising Campaign | WHS |
| Kristopher Johnson | Retail Merchandising Series | WHS |
| Samantha Kaiser | Advertising Campaign | WHS |
| Nicole Scherb | Marketing Management Test | WHS |
| Isamar Cruz-Garcia | Principles of Marketing | WHS |
| Brenda Solis | Principles of Marketing | WHS |
To view the full list of students participating in the Region 14 Competition, click here
Fifty-One South-Western Students Qualify for State BPA Competition
During the first week of February, 338 students from Central Crossing, Franklin Heights, Grove City and Westland High Schools and the South-Western Career Academy in the South-Western City School District participated in the Region 14 Business Professionals of America (BPA) Competition at various schools across Central Ohio. Of those 338 students, 214 plaques were awarded to South-Western students and 51 students qualified for the state competition to be held on March 18 and 19 at the Columbus Convention Center.
Business Professionals of America is the National Career-Technical Student Organization for Business programs.
The following South-Western City School District students qualified for the state BPA competition:
Name |
Contest |
School |
| Ryan Timberlake | Legal Office Procedures | CCHS |
| Kori Davis-Powers | Fundamental Word Processing Skills | CCHS |
| Michael Bauman | Advanced Spreadsheet Applications | CCHS |
| Kayla Holcomb | Prepared Speech | CCHS |
| Kayla Seagraves | Payroll Accounting | CCHS |
| Nick Harr | Computerized Accounting | CCHS |
| Emilee Fowler | Medical Office Procedures | FHHS |
| Briana Garten | Administrative Support Team | FHHS |
| Casee Reeves | Medical Office Procedures | FHHS |
| Christina Parrett | Fundamentals of Accounting | FHHS |
| Brandon Iddings | Computerized Accounting | FHHS |
| Ashley McConahay | Advanced Spreadsheet Application | FHHS |
| Jama Hiir | Keyboarding Production | FHHS |
| Victor Berry-George | Fundamental Word Processing Skill | FHHS |
| Erica Weber | Basic Office Systems and Procedures | FHHS |
| Jessica Washburn | Database Applications | FHHS |
| Sidney Mitchell | Administrative Support Team | FHHS |
| Diamond Jones | Administrative Support Team | FHHS |
| Amia Johnson | Basic Office Systems and Procedures | FHHS |
| Fatuma Ahmed | Keyboarding Production | FHHS |
| Joseph Sichini | Advanced Office Systems and Procedures | GCHS |
| Tyler Ford | Payroll Accounting | GCHS |
| Abdi Omer | Fundamental Accounting | WHS |
| Snezhana Nyunya | Fundamental Spreadsheet | WHS |
| Daniel Krumm | Banking and Finance | WHS |
| Alejandra Bonilla | Advanced Word Processing | WHS |
| Alisha Snyder | Advanced Word Processing | WHS |
| Leah Zirkle-Hughes | Integrated Office Applications | WHS |
| Larry Pletcher | Integrated Office Applications | WHS |
| Tammy Clark | Advanced Office Systems and Procedures | WHS |
| Andy Tuttle | Administrative Support Team | WHS |
| Colleen Finnegan | Administrative Support Team | WHS |
| Alexandria Fichter | Administrative Support Team | WHS |
| Anthony Gilbert | Administrative Support Team | WHS |
| Matthew Dillon | Video Production Team | SWCA |
| Caitlin VanGundy | Video Production Team | SWCA |
| Emilee Slaughter | Video Production Team | SWCA |
| Brandon Schoolcraft | Video Production Team | SWCA |
| Jessica Stokes | Presentation Management Team | SWCA |
| Katelyn Brown | Presentation Management Team | SWCA |
| Jeremy Logan | Presentation Management Team | SWCA |
| MarQuan McCarrel | Entrepreneurship | SWCA |
| John Daniels | Computer Network Technology | SWCA |
| Shane Baker | Computer Network Technology | SWCA |
| Kristin Brobst | Cisco System Administration | SWCA |
| Victor Uyoa | Network Administrator Using Microsoft | SWCA |
| Josh Roberts | Network Administrator Using Microsoft | SWCA |
| Spencer Higgins | Computer Security | SWCA |
| Nick Major | Computer Security | SWCA |
| James Flanders | PC Servicing and Troubleshooting | SWCA |
To view the full list of students participating in the Region 14 Competition, click here
Ninth Annual SWCS Spelling Bee
On Thursday, February 11, 2010, fifty students from South-Western’s intermediate and middle schools participated in the district’s Ninth Annual Spelling Bee. Brookpark Middle School eighth grader Tyler McMaken earned the title of 2010 SWCS Spelling Bee Champion by correctly spelling the word “vinegar.” Galloway Ridge Intermediate School sixth grader Haylie Graves earned the runner-up title.
Tyler and Haylie will compete in the Sheridan WorldWise Regional Spelling Bee on March 6, 2010 at Centennial High School along with the following students:
3rd place – Taylor Hensel, Brookpark Middle School, sixth grade
4th place – Said Ahmed, Norton Middle School, seventh grade
5th place - Sierra Seymour, Finland Middle School, eighth grade
6th place – Richard DeFoe, Franklin Woods Intermediate School, sixth grade
7th place – Calvin Clark, Jackson Middle School, seventh grade
8th place – Josh Matthews, Jackson Middle School, seventh grade
9th place – Shaela Davis, Franklin Woods Intermediate School, sixth grade
10th place – Kayla Schulze, Franklin Woods Intermediate School, sixth grade
CCHS Senior Signs a Letter of Intent to Run Cross Country at Tiffin College
CCHS senior Luke Boggs signs a letter of intent to run cross country at Tiffin College. Picured with Luke are CCHS Principal Hubert Watson, Doug and Christy Boggs, and CCHS Athletic Director Zoraba Ross.
Three Finland Middle School Students Participate in Ohio Regional Future City Competition at COSI
On January 16, 2010, three students at Finland Middle School participated in the Ohio Regional Future City Competition at COSI in downtown Columbus. This is the second year for FMS to compete. Prior to the competition at COSI, each 7th grade science class at FMS was challenged to create and build a model of a futuristic city. Applying concepts from the 7th grade science indicators, students designed cities that creatively and effectively solved many problems of today's cities, from traffic jams to pollution to toxic waste. The three students representing FMS at COSI were David Cherneta, Vanessa Fernandez, and Cristina Punzalan.
Campus Safety magazine has named South-Western City Schools Safety Director Gary Sigrist, Jr. as one of the Top 10 Campus Safety Directors of the Year. Congratulations to Mr. Sigrist! To read the full article, click here.
Two GCHS Students Participate in Honors Band
William England, a Grove City 10th grade alto saxophonist, and Morgan Baker, a 12th grade bassoonist, participated in the Honors Band at Ohio University recently. William will be attending the Ohio State University for Honors Band the weekend of January 16.
GCHS Students Qualify for National DECA Career Development Conference Stock Market Game Competition
Grove City students DJ Mulford, Tessa Wagner and Michael Wyatt qualified for the national DECA Career Development Conference in the Stock Market Game Competition. The students competed against other DECA members across the country and placed top in their region. They will be presenting their portfolio at the National DECA Career Development Conference in Louisville, Kentucky this spring.
GCHS Guidance Counselor Named December OEA Teacher of the Month
Grove City guidance counselor John Hampson has been selected as the December Ohio Education Association “Teacher of the Month.” On January 12, representatives from OEA, ClearChannel, Half Price Books and Wendy’s will present Mr. Hampson with a $100 gift card from Half Price Books and a burger party from Wendy’s. He will also be featured in commercials on WTVN, WLZT, WCOL, WHCI and WBWR radio and on their Web sites.
SWCA/WHS Student Receives “Choose Ohio First” STEM scholarship
Emalee Dickson received a “Choose Ohio First” STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) scholarship of $4,700 per year for two years to the University of Akron. Emalee is a second year Pre-Engineering student at SWCA. Emalee has achieved a GPA of 3.576 and is an honors student at the Career Academy. Her home high school is Westland.
FHHS NJROTC Air Rifle Team Places 10th in the Nation
The Franklin Heights High School NJROTC air rifle team placed 10th in the nation in the Secretary of the Navy’s Air Rifle Competition. They were the number one NJROTC team in the State of Ohio. Team members are Tyler Hill, Nick Pickering, Jackie Rich and Josh Stevens.
CCHS Swim Team Member Named The Dispatch Athlete of the Week
Congratulations to CCHS Swim Team member Caroline Kruczynski on being named The Dispatch Athlete of the Week on Saturday, December 12, 2009. Caroline, a junior at CCHS, competes in the 50-yard freestyle, 100-yard backstroke and multiple relays. <More information>
CCHS NJROTC to compete in National Drill Team Championships
The Central Crossing High School NJROTC Drill Team has been accepted to compete in the National High School Drill Team Championships scheduled for May 1-3, 2010. Competition for acceptance was very keen with 119 schools from across the United States being accepted. This is an all-service event with JROTC units representing the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Marine Corps. Central Crossing is the only NJROTC program chosen from the state of Ohio and one of only two Area 3 representatives from seven states.
Grove City High School Senior Named National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalist
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Grove City High School Senior Matthew Warner has been named as a Semifinalist in the 55th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. More than 1.5 million juniors in 22,000 high schools entered the 2010 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2008 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The semifinalists represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, including the highest scoring entrants in each state. Matthew has a current cumulative weighted grade point average of 4.3134. He is the current Class of 2010 President at Grove City High School and has also served as class president his freshman, sophomore and junior years. Matthew is the Band President, National Honor Society President, a member of the Grove City High School Student Council and varsity member of the “In the Know” team. He has been a STAR (Success Through Academic Recognition) Award Recipient each of his previous years in high school. Matthew is the son of Melanie and Jeff Warner. |
| From left to right: Matthew Warner, Board Vice President Greg McCarty, Mindy Garverick, Amy Baker, Board President Cathy Johnson, Randy Reisling |
