Steubenville City Schools

Pathfinders Being Recognized on Feb. 14

Posted 2/6/2025 at 8:18:00 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Alumni and community members who have made a difference are being recognized during the 33rd Annual Pathfinders Assembly at Steubenville High School on Feb. 14.

Festivities will take place in the school auditorium at 10 a.m. and include student performances and essays in addition to awards. SHS Assistant Principal Aaron Newman said recipients have been lauded in the realm of humanitarianism, business, education, government and citizenship and this year’s honorees include Cierra Jones, Jack Thornton, Jr. and Marcus McGhee, Sr. Jones and Thornton will be heralded as humanitarians while McGhee is being touted for education.

“It’s our culminating Black History Month event and an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the achievements of graduates or district contributors,” Newman said. “We usually have at least three recipients and they primarily have been people of color, but we’ve had a few exceptions. All three honorees were on our list and we felt the time was right for them.”

Cierra Jones, a 2013 SHS graduate and current school administrator, will be recognized for her work with children in both academics and athletics.

Jones was already on the road to success as a University Scholar and member of the cheerleading team, Key Club, band, choir and track team during her time at Big Red and originally studied pharmacy in college before heeding the call to become an educator. She then volunteered as a tutor and worked as a long-term substitute teacher and cheerleading coach at Anthony Wayne Junior/Senior High School. Jones earned both her bachelor’s degree in education and master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Toledo and returned to teach in Steubenville City Schools in 2020. She went on to instruct at Harding Middle School and coach track and cheerleading at SHS, where she later became head cheerleading coach and celebrated three consecutive state championships.

She served as an administrative assistant at Harding and was most recently named as assistant principal. Jones and husband Damion share two sons, Damion (“JuJu”) and Kobe.

Jack Thornton, Jr., a 1964 Steubenville graduate, is being honored for his extensive work as the founder, president, head coach and program director of the Warren Striders Track Club, Inc., as well as a retired educator and coach for Warren City Schools.

Thornton earned a bachelor’s degree in American History and secondary education from the former College of Steubenville and a master’s degree in African American Studies from Boston University. He founded the Warren Striders Track Club in 1977 and has dedicated his efforts to developing the sport and its student-athletes.

Thornton began his teaching and coaching career at Warren Western Reserve High School and later served Warren G. Harding, Warren John F. Kennedy and Labrae High Schools, plus he coached at the collegiate level as an assistant at Malone College and Franciscan University. He briefly served as head coach at Warren John F. Kennedy and led the boys’ team to its first-ever Division III state track and field championship.

In Steubenville, Thornton formed a strong mentorship with Jaquan Lavender and supported his “Journey to Gold” mission and the J.L. Foundation’s “Prudent Man” project, plus he has volunteered with the SHS boys’ and girls’ track teams, assisting in hurdles and high jump events. Notable successes range from helping Savior Faulks win the 300-meter hurdle in the state championship to Adrianna Crabtree’s advance to the state 100m hurdles. Thornton has competed as a Senior Olympian in national events and earned a gold medal in the triple jump and a bronze in the long jump, while he and his peers have also qualified for the 2025 National Senior Games. In addition, he has received numerous honors for his contribution to education, community service and athletics. He resides in Warren and is the proud father of two daughters, grandfather of seven and great-grandfather of two.

Marcus McGhee, Sr. is a 1986 Big Red alumnus who will be recognized for his commitment to education.

McGhee was actively involved in band and athletics as a youth, including baseball, basketball, wrestling, track and field and football. He was most notably was a contributing member to the 1984 state champion football team and later attended Muskingum University for two years. McGhee completed a brief stint in the U.S. Army Reserves, then headed to the University of Cincinnati and worked as a tutor and advisor for high school students through the university’s Upward Bound program. He then joined the Afrikan Men of Impact Organization and learned new ways to serve his community. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and went on to earn a teacher’s license and master’s degree in education administration.

McGhee began working as an instructor’s assistant with Cincinnati Public Schools in 1993 and as program director with the city’s recreation commission in 1994, creating and implementing academic, recreational and sports programs and summer camps for neighborhood kids. He eventually became recreation center director and a classroom teacher but opted to continue his career in education. McGhee has spent the past 31 years as a teacher and assistant principal and also held various coaching and leadership positions in football, basketball, softball and choir. He resides in Cincinnati with his wife, Elaine, and sons Marcus Jr. and Marques and continues teaching, coaching, tutoring and advising city kids.

Awardees are selected by a Black History Month/Pathfinders committee comprised of representatives from the Steubenville City Schools administration, instructional and support staff in addition to community members. Newman added that the ceremony was “student-produced, student-driven and student-centered” with performances and an essay reading.

“Our student talent is really on full display,” he said. “The kids are part of it and this is an event all of the student guests are looking forward to.”

The program includes a welcome and Pledge of Allegiance by Julissa Green; guest introductions by Hayden Hicks; a recognition of past Pathfinders by Myles Cooper; essay winners Oliver Andrews of East Garfield Elementary, Kali Carter of Wells Academy, Ella King of McKinley STEM Academy, Johnnie Ray Lester of Pugliese West Elementary and Benjamin Klepack and Braylon Hayden of Harding Middle School with a reading by high school essay winner Sydney Reid; performances by Gianna Barker, Trymia Mayo, Jayden Cooper, Elisha Fletcher, Jasmine Wooden and A’riyah Jones; award presentations by Kyleigh Hopkins, Noah West and Analesa Perdue; and the closing by Jasmine Gregory. Additionally, Cianna Scurry, Destynasia Christian and Jala Minniefield comprised the welcoming committee with Aiden Davis, William Taylor and Jalen Minniefield as ushers and Shalecia Barbee, Ja’Raya Wallace and Salaria Abron in charge of programs.

Photo Caption:

Steubenville High School will recognize Marcus McGhee, Sr. and others during the 33rd Annual Pathfinders Assembly on Feb. 14 at 10 a.m. in the school auditorium. The Big Red alumni are being heralded for humanitarianism and education and the event will include student performances and essay winners to culminate Black History Month.

Steubenville Hits Reset for New Year

Posted 1/17/2025 at 11:52:29 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-The Steubenville City School District hit the reset button for the new year during its reorganizational meeting on Jan. 15.

Ruth Anne Bruzzese was elected board president with Matt Davis named vice president, both returning to seats they have held in the past. The session also included William Hendricks chosen to continue his duties as legislative liaison with Davis also selected as student achievement liaison for the Ohio School Boards Association, as well as the approval of operational action. Those ranged from the approval of the bond for the board president for $50,000, the approval of the service fund for $20,000, committee appointments and the continuation of meeting dates on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.

A regular session soon followed and Superintendent Melinda Young honored board members for School Board Appreciation Month with gifts and certificates from the OSBA.

“We want to thank our board for everything you do,” Young said. “Without you, we don’t know where we would be.”

Among other business, the board:

-Approved for the superintendent to employ temporary personnel in an emergency situation;

-Approved employment, FMLA, retirement, resignations and salary adjustments of certificated and non-certificated staff;

-Adopted the Department of Commerce minimum wage increase to $10.70 per hour and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) standard mileage reimbursement rate of 70 cents;

-Approved a service agreement for loss control services (worker’s compensation) with Sedgwick Claims Management Services;

-Approved the master supply agreement between Direct Energy, LLC, and the Ohio Mid-Eastern Regional Education Service Agency (OMERESA);

-Approved a resolution to adopt the policy manual as presented by the OSBA;

-Approved the treasurer’s request to make appropriate modifications as needed in the interest of the district’s operational and proper budgetary procedures and to present them to the board for final approval, as well as authority to make decisions that do not require board approval.

Photo Caption:

The Steubenville Board of Education reset for the new year and named Ruth Anne Bruzzese and Matt Davis as board president and vice president for 2025. The board held a reorganization and subsequent regular session to approve operational and other matters. Pictured are, front from left, Tom Timmons, board President Ruth Anne Bruzzese and Vice President Matt Davis. Back: William Hendricks and Greg Agresta.

Best Practice Grants Broaden Students’ Horizons

Posted 11/21/2024 at 9:11:43 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville City School teachers are broadening students’ horizons with distinctive projects to enhance education in STEM, science and social studies.

Kylee Gentile, Sara Nocera and Crystal Wicker each obtained Jefferson County Best Practice Grants for $700 to foster growth not only in their students’ minds, but also in their environment. Dr. Nicole McDonald, JCESC director of grants, presented the awards during the Steubenville Board of Education meeting on Nov. 20.

Gentile, who is first-grade teacher at Pugliese West Elementary, will implement “Project Pollinator” to promote growth in the natural environment and benefit about 300 science students.

“Project Pollinator is an exciting opportunity to encourage butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds to visit our school garden and the community at large,” Gentile said. “Pollinators are drawn to plants rich in pollen and nectar so plans for this project include creating a special garden to cater to these critters and putting up butterfly houses here at Pugliese West, as well as at other SCS locations!”

She is a first-time grant recipient and was thrilled to be selected.

“I am so grateful and excited to receive this funding. Our garden is a big part of our school community, and it is a great hands-on learning experience for students. Gardening is a skill that students can take with them beyond the classroom,” Gentile added. “I would like to thank the Jefferson County ESC for providing this opportunity to teachers. We are happy to be awarded the funds needed to assist our students in exploring learning beyond textbooks and outside of the classroom.”

Nocera, who teaches first grade at Wells Academy, intends to impact 50 STEM students with her project, “Building the STEM Bridge to Create the Future Leaders.” The project aims to bring hands-on learning back into first-grade classrooms by integrating KiwiCo STEM kits with existing lessons in reading, math, social studies, and science.

My project is to bridge the gap between textbooks and direct instruction by incorporating STEM activities that coordinate with first-grade current curriculum. I am going to incorporate some of the KiwiCo STEM kits with some of our existing lessons of reading, math, social studies and science to create a hands-on learning experience that will help the students retain the lessons, create a better understanding, form connections with the content and maybe even help them discover a future career path,” she said.

Nocera added that she has received several Best Practice Grants and she was honored to be recognized again.

“I am honored and grateful to have received the grant for a third time. I know my students will be thrilled with the STEM kits.”

Wicker, a third-grade teacher at Pugliese West, is covering even more territory with the project, “It’s a Small World Continent Study” and benefit about 80 pupils.

The project offers social studies students an immersive exploration of the continents through a variety of interactive activities and research projects, where they will learn about world cultures, map continents, create paper plate representations and explore global animals, culminating in a final project where they guide their families through transformed classrooms representing each continent. The Project-Based Learning (PBL) approach integrates science, language arts and geography standards, making learning both fun and meaningful. The goal is to ignite students' curiosity, foster a love for exploration and promote a deeper understanding of the world.

“The students will embark on an exciting lesson that teaches students about the Earth's continents. This project-based learning experience will allow students to understand the seven continents and some of the countries that belong to each one,” she explained.

She added that her third-grade team gained a similar grant last year and they were excited to gain another award.

“My team and I are thrilled to receive this grant! We can't wait to begin our PBL and learn all about the seven continents. We are excited for our students to have this amazing opportunity.”

JCESC Superintendent Dr. Chuck Kokiko applauded the educators for their forward-thinking abilities.

“The JCESC has supported efforts of our classroom teachers to bring forth insightful, innovative projects to fuel the students’ minds and improve upon their education, and the Best Practice Grants enable them to put those ideas into practice,” Dr. Kokiko added. “Every year, our district teachers continue to find unique methods for their classroom. We appreciate their hard work and are pleased to provide these opportunities and promote such creativity.”

Steubenville City Schools have garnered a total of 37 Best Practice Grants over the past 12 years to enhance learning experiences and other recipients included the Buckeye Local, Edison Local, Harrison Hills City, Indian Creek Local, Southern Local and Toronto City school districts as well as the Utica Shale Academy.

(Photo Caption: The Jefferson County Educational Service Center awarded three $700 Best Practice Grants to teachers during the Steubenville Board of Education session on Nov. 20. The grants will help implement innovative programs to expound upon student learning. Pictured are, from left, Kylee Gentile, Valerie Olton representing Crystal Wicker, school board President Tom Timmons, Sara Nocera and JCESC Director of Grants Dr. Nicole McDonald.)

Pugliese Kids Get out the Vote

Posted 11/12/2024 at 9:08:58 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Pugliese West Elementary students got in on Election Day action and made their voices heard in a mock voting event on Nov. 5.

Students in grades PreK-4 cast their ballots for the 47th U.S. President in an activity led by the first-grade class. Fourth-graders Dominic Borsch and Joia Rose travelled to classrooms to campaign as since President-elect Donald Trump and his opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, the previous Monday, then kids made their decision at the makeshift polls on Election Day. The results were 300 votes for Trump with 98 nods for Harris.

First-grade teacher and organizer Sarah Naleppa said her class prepared for two weeks before the big day.

“This was the first time the first grade got to do it,” said Naleppa. “The first-graders enjoyed doing it for the school. We watched videos and had lessons about the electoral process. They learned about the candidates, what it means to vote and the different parties.”

Classes took turns casting their votes under the watchful eye of the first-grade organizers, some of whom spoke out about voting.

“It was fun to do,” said first-grader Carlo Saccoccia.

“It’s fun because you get to vote before you’re 18,” added classmate Blake Price.

“I like it because you get to vote for the president,” said Jordie Walter.

They all agreed that every vote matters.

Borsch and Rose added that portraying the candidates was also important to learn about the issues people were deciding upon.

“I watched the news a lot and would see how he uses his hands,” Borsch said, noting he studied Trump’s mannerisms and comments to talk like him. “It’s important [to vote].”

“I watched [Harris’s] campaign rally in Michigan and wrote down some of her quotes on flashcards and studied them,” Rose added, describing how she prepped for her role as the vice president. “I liked it because she stands up for women. I’m excited because I can’t vote for a while.”

Meanwhile, Principal Lynnett Gorman said it was a fantastic way to include the children in a very important part of being an American.

“It teaches them about their civic duty and being part of the community,” Gorman added. “It’s super exciting to include a girl to portray a candidate and it’s great to see that both males and female candidates can run for president.”

Photo Caption:
Pugliese West Elementary students cast their ballots during a mock voting event on Election Day. Fourth-graders Dominic Borsch and Joia Rose also portrayed since current President-elect Donald Trump and his opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, and “campaigned” that Monday while students in grades PreK-4 rendered their decision on Nov. 5.

Spirit Building in Steubenville FCA

Posted 10/11/2024 at 1:11:20 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-The spirit is building within Steubenville City Schools as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes organization grows in membership.

Both Steubenville High School and Harding Middle School have seen a movement of sorts with an increase in participation in membership and activities. Pastor Bobbyjon Bauman, president of the Ohio Valley Youth Network and director of Sycamore Youth Center, organizes the clubs in area schools and was impressed by the number of youth who have shown interest. He said FCA has been part of the SHS tapestry for the past 11 years. It was active within the school years ago but discontinued at one point, then it was restarted. Bauman is assisted by FCA leader Dale Tombs as well as Carolyn Buchanan and Kristy Shores.

“When we started, [teacher] Angelina Forte was the first leader and now coach Andy Kidwell is the sponsor,” he said. “These are student-led activities. I do the signature devotional and set the stage while the students run the session.”

Harding Middle School students meet for Bible study sessions each Monday morning while SHS members gather at lunchtime on Thursdays. About 60 students attend at HMS and Bauman said the meeting venue was moved from a classroom to a larger computer room to accommodate the extra participants, while about 200 appeared for an informational session for Sycamore after school classes. Additionally, the high school had its largest turnout in five years with 45 participants at its most recent FCA session. He said the organization has gained momentum through the years and offered various possibilities for the surge.

“FCA is an opportunity for students of the Christian faith to come together and inspire one another. We have Bible study and also run the See You at the Pole activity. We at 175 students at the high school See You at the Pole on Sept. 25 and used a speaker from the Sycamore Center, then students got in line to say prayers,” he added. “There’s a movement of the Holy Spirit within all of the schools. I have seen growth and there’s something going on within the culture at large, maybe, post-COVID. Maybe kids are seeking a deeper meaning in life. It would seem that Christianity is new to a lot of these kids. I think people are genuinely interested in learning about God, so FCA is one place where, if they want to learn about God, they can learn there.”

Bauman said there is a movement in God’s spirit at times and the FCA also provides an opportunity for people of diverse backgrounds to congregate. Not all members are athletes, while quite a few have also participated at the Sycamore Youth Center. He said the center conducts a Sonshine Bible Club and Vagabond Ministries and also offers an array of opportunities such as the upcoming performance of the African Children’s Choir on Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the center, a Veteran’s Day event on Nov. 11 and The Valley’s Got Talent on Nov. 24 in the SHS Auditorium. About 20 acts appear in the latter and compete in the Christian-based contest for a $1,500 prize.

Bauman said the youths’ involvement in Sycamore’s activities has parlayed into their interest in FCA.

“I’ve been working with these kids for a long, long time and I’ve built that relationship with them,” he said.

Student leaders at SHS include sophomore Santino Haney and juniors Beau Hudson and JoJo Rea. Haney said his participation has given him courage to find his voice.

“I was involved in church and started getting into faith and religion,” Haney said. “It benefits a lot of students and there was a big growth within members last year. I enjoy seeing everybody and being able to gather with them and relating with them in that aspect. I’ve learned a lot and it has helped with public speaking.”

He added that he has noticed more students attending FCA and it was a comfortable place to gather, plus he has grown more confident in speaking publicly during sessions and See You at The Pole events.

Photo Caption:

About 175 students gathered at Steubenville High School on Sept. 25 for See You at the Pole activities to pray for the community and each other. A growing number of youth are attending Fellowship of Christian Athletes meetings at SHS and Harding Middle School and organizers said the spirit has been building within the schools.

Jr Imagineers Enter Second Year at Wells Academy

Posted 10/9/2024 at 7:32:45 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Wells Academy has begun its second year of the Jr. Imagineers program which incorporates STEM and Disney themes for a fun educational experience.

About 120 students in grades K-3 meet one Thursday a month after school and will conduct their second session on Oct. 17. First-grade teacher Heather Koehnlein facilitates the group with fellow educators Katie Mills, Heather Davis, Jen D’Ortenzio and Michelle Timmons and said the children are learning about science in an exciting way.

“We try to incorporate elements of physics and do crafts and experiments,” Koehnlein said. “It’s a preamble when they get to go to the fourth-grade Imagineers program. We started the Jr. Imagineers last year and now there are over 120 kids.”

The Jr. Imagineers are part of a fundraiser for the school’s Disney Imagineers Club, which involves fourth-graders who meet weekly to conduct Disney-themed STEM lessons and then travel to Disney World’s Imagination Campus each spring. The school club partners with Walt Disney Imagineering, the creative force behind the design and construction of all of its theme parks, resorts, attractions and more, and the fourth-graders meet in afterschool sessions and conduct hands-on experiments in preparation for the Florida trip. While there, the kids get a behind-the-scenes look at how STEM is used in operations and also take in the sights and rides during their spare time. The junior group has pledged to help raise funds to help fourth-grade students attend the outing, and among the moneymakers was a week-long summer camp. Koehnlein noted that nearly all of the funds have been raised for the current members, while about 34 students are in the Imagineers club. Of those, about 32 were planning to attend the excursion in May.

She added that Imagineers members also help the junior group during sessions and they build a rapport along the way.

“Some of the Imagineers help with the experiments, and during our first session we worked on physical changes with materials and magnetic forces,” she said, adding that one experiment involved making a creation of Jafar’s snake character from the movie “Aladdin” using static electricity. “We try to do something with the holidays and what they do at the Disney Imagination Campus and we may engineer a float for Wells Academy’s Boo to You Parade.”

Photo Caption: Wells Academy second-grade student Jayda Montgomery enjoys her science experiment during the Jr. Imagineers program, which is held each month and is part of the Disney Imagineers Club. About 120 students in grades PreK-3 participate in activities which incorporate STEM and Disney themes and are a precursor to the Imagineers Club for fourth-graders.

Big Red Marching Band Celebrating 100 Years

Posted 10/9/2024 at 7:20:46 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville High School's Big Red Marching Band is tooting its own horn and celebrating a century of entertaining audiences.

Band director Rosalind Thacker said ideas are in the works and the milestone will be marked through various themes.

"We're trying to make it felt throughout the year," she said. "The band is in the ‘100' formation through the alma mater and ‘Star Spangled Banner' and we've purchased drumheads reflecting a ‘100 Years' logo, plus we've made T-shirts and announcements. We wanted it to reflect through the whole season."

The shirts are sold for $12 and $15 at the concession stand and she said hopes are to get people to celebrate the occasion, plus they may donate a meal for the band.

According to its history, the band was established around the 1921-22 school year as a concert band, while the first marching band performed on the field in 1924. The band was organized that spring from a group of high school boys, many of whom had never had a music lesson. It yielded 23 players and also included assistant director Edward Dobbins and student manager Gilbert Gaughan.

The number of players would expand and contract much like an accordion through the years and today boasts among its highest at 90. The band has gone on to perform school shows, at sporting events, churches and local parades. One high point was its inclusion in President Lyndon B. Johnson's inaugural parade during the 1960s. Members have also performed at Disney World every four years and attended another venue in Tennessee during the 1980s. Thacker is the longest-serving director at SHS and is currently in her ninth season.

"We've done pregame shows, our annual variety show and this year we attended the Dover Band Preview on Sept. 21," she continued. "The shows also reflect the decades in recognition of our anniversary. I try to come up with music from shows where people in the audience were in attendance."

Thacker is currently planning the upcoming variety show for Nov. 14 and 16 and said it will include musical highlights from the season as well as other tunes.

For more information about meal donations or other support, contact Thacker at [email protected].

Photo Caption:

The Steubenville High School Big Red Marching Band is celebrating 100 years of existence with performances of tunes from throughout the decades at its shows. T-shirts are also on sale to mark the occasion and band director Rosalind Thacker said the milestone will be highlighted throughout the year.

Pugliese West Begins New Chapter in Reading Program

Posted 10/9/2024 at 1:27:29 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Pugliese West Elementary has begun a new chapter in its annual reading program by kicking off its One School, One Book literacy initiative.

Activities got underway Oct. 1 as more than 400 PreK-4 students gathered in the school gym to highlight this year’s selection,” “Sideways Stories from Wayside School” by Louis Sachar, which tells the tales of teachers and students in a 30-story schoolhouse.

“We have a reading schedule and the students read two to three chapters a night, and each day they answer trivia questions,” said school instructional coach Krystal Yourkovich, who organizes the activity along with educator Chris Ballato. “The answers are entered into a drawing and the winner gets a token for a book from our book vending machine.”

All grade levels participate at school while adults and older siblings can also read to the youngsters at home. She added that the students complete classroom activities related to the story and it all culminates with a literacy night event on Oct. 24 from 5-7 p.m. It will include food trucks, vendors peddling T-shirts, crafts, candles and more in the gym as well as, weather permitting, outdoor yard games such as giant Jenga and Yahtzee. There will also be a “jack patch” for students to carve their own jack o’lanterns while each classroom will have an activity pertaining to the book.

“Last year, we did Battle of the Books and a lot of families missed the One School, One Book program and literacy night, so we brought it back,” she said.

The goals of the One School, One Book initiative and literacy night event are to inspire parent engagement in activities and also promote the importance of reading.

Photo Caption:

Pugliese West Elementary students kicked off their annual One School, One Book program with author Louis Sachar’s “Sideways Stories from Wayside School” on Oct. 1 and will complete a month-long literacy activity. More than 400 PreK-4 students can read at home and then partake in daily classroom and schoolwide activities that culminate in a literacy night event on Oct. 24. The literacy night runs from 5-7 p.m. and will feature food trucks, vendors, classroom activities and more.

Steubenville Key Club Collecting for Diaper Drive

Posted 9/20/2024 at 6:09:19 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-The Steubenville High School Key Club is doing its part to help local families during the Steubenville High School Football Diaper Drive this Friday.

The organization is partnering with the Jefferson County General Health District to collect diapers for the Jefferson County Diaper Bank. The diaper drive will be held during Big Red’s game against Dover at Harding Stadium at 7 p.m. The gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the public can bring boxes and packs to the JCGHD tent located at the gates across from the Harding Middle School cafeteria. Collections have also been held at each Steubenville City School building throughout the week leading to National Diaper Need Awareness Week on Sept. 23-29.

Last year, the health district joined forces with Toronto City and Edison Local Schools and gathered 26,000 diapers for the initiative, and now organizers hope to collect more to serve families in need. Director of Nursing Kylie Smogonovich said the general health district aids communities across the county but more than 40 percent of the need is found in Steubenville.

“National Diaper Need Awareness Week is next week, so we’re partnering with Steubenville High School Key Club on a drive to bring awareness around diaper need in the community and collecting donations for the Diaper Bank program,” she said.

“We hadn’t had a diaper program yet when we had last year’s collection. We now have a designated diaper room and the health department is open during business hours while our clinic in Toronto is available on Mondays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.”

She said this marked the first time the health department collaborated with Steubenville and any donations are appreciated. All brands and sizes are accepted and donors may also bring packs and boxes of clean, unopened diapers as well as new ones. Donations may also be taken to the health department on the sixth floor of the Towers Building at 500 Market St. Business hours include Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Smogonovich said the diapers will be rewrapped for monthly distribution to clients.

“This month, we had 301 individual children that we served since opening in February, and over 40 percent were from Steubenville,” she noted. “We gave out close to 15,000 diapers and every month the numbers are going up.”

Target ages are newborn to three years old, but children ages 3-5 who are not potty trained and expectant women are also enrolled. Smogonovich said referrals may be made for the program and the diapers help supplement the clients’ supply. To qualify, they must be a county resident and meet income eligibility guidelines. She added that 22 percent of the families are also enrolled in Help Me Grow and WIC.

Key Club officers Natalie Romanyak and Sarah Ostovich said they wanted to carry on the student organization’s mission of helping those in need.

“We do anything we can to help our community,” said Romanyak. “It’s another opportunity for us to step in and help out.”

“Making a difference means a lot to the Key Club,” added Ostovich. “At the end of the day, we want babies to be clean and healthy. It not only helps them, it sends a positive message of helping the community.”

Smogonovich said diaper needs were an unseen public health need and infants and toddlers get their diapers changed up to 10 times a day, making costs add up. Diapers are not included in SNAP and EBT assistance, and although Ohio eliminated the diaper tax last October the prices are still costly. According to national statistics, one in two families struggles to provide enough diapers for their baby or toddler. The JCGHD is also planning its second-annual Dashing for Diapers Holiday 5K at Historic Fort Steuben on Dec. 14 at 9 a.m. to benefit the cause.

Photo Caption: The Jefferson County General Health District and Steubenville High School Key Club are teaming up for the Steubenville Football Diaper Drive this Friday to kick off National Diaper Need Awareness Week on Sept. 23-29. Collections will be taken at the Big Red game against Dover at Harding Stadium. JCGHD gathered 26,000 diapers during a separate initiative last year. Pictured are, from left, Kayla Fogle, a registered nurse with JCGHD; Natalie Romanyak, SHS Key Club president; Sarah Ostovich, SHS Key Club vice president; Kylie Smogonovich, JCGHD director of nursing; and Rachel Shorac, medical assistant with JCGHD.

Fifth-Graders Successfully Transition to Harding

Posted 9/7/2024 at 4:11:58 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Fifth-graders are transitioning successfully into classes at Harding Middle School and adapting to life beyond the elementary level.

Classes resumed on Aug. 21 with approximately 212 pupils—the school’s second-highest class—officially becoming Stallions. Principal Bryan Mills said enrollment numbers were steadily growing and the fifth-grade was just behind the seventh-grade class, which yields about 230 students. Officials have taken steps to ease the move with a bevy of interactive events over the past year, including longtime activities such as Making Memories in the Middle, fourth-grade bump-up days and the Winter Extravaganza as well as newer ones like Trunk or Treat and Popsicles with the Principal.

Mills said the events permit fourth-graders to meet with classmates from Steubenville’s other elementary schools as well as interact with upperclassmen from Harding.

“There are lots of opportunities to be at Harding before they come here,” he said.

The second-annual Trunk or Treat is being set for Oct. 30 and students dress in costumes and collect sweets in the school parking lot. Officials said the inaugural event drew hundreds of students and family members for some fall fun filled with candy and camaraderie. Other events included the Winter Extravaganza featuring band and orchestra performances; the springtime Making Memories social, where participants visited each room and enjoyed science experiments, origami, bingo games, the Locked Up Escape Challenge, marble rollercoasters, esports gaming, performances by HMS band and orchestra members and more; and the bump-up day in May where fourth-graders from East Garfield, McKinley STEM Academy, Pugliese West and Wells Academy are bused to Harding Stadium to enjoy field day activities from kickball and Minute to Win It to musical showcases and connect with middle schoolers, teachers and administrators.

Mills continued that a parent information meeting is held each April for parents of students in grades 4-8 to ask questions, share concerns and obtain information about the school.

“It’s a way to get acclimated to faces, meet teachers and get a tour of the facilities,” said school social worker Shay Greiner. “Our belief is it greatly reduces anxiety and they get an opportunity to be here and meet people.”

Greiner noted that this year’s Making Memories in the Middle was another major draw while the bump-up day included fourth-grade pupils bused from Wells, East Garfield, Pugliese West and McKinley STEM Academy.

More help is available as students acclimate to having more classwork, and Greiner said flex periods and intervention programs provide extra support to keep students on a successful learning path.

“We acknowledge that afterschool activities increase, and if they can get their work done at school we will help them do it.”

“There’s a safety net to help every period of every day,” Mills interjected.

Newly minted middle schoolers William Luther and Nina Lumpkin said they have been enjoying their first few weeks of classes and experiencing their new environment.

“It’s fun,” said Luther, who previously attended Pugliese West Elementary. “I like Harding.”

He counted having more freedom, classes and activities among his reasons and said his favorite was the Adventureland STEM activities where students can invent new items or attempt to improve upon current ones using recyclable materials. Another plus was that he learned to adjust more easily since he new plenty of eighth-graders since is older sister is a pupil, while he also practiced on a combination lock so he could learn to open his locker.

Luther said he is active in sports and hoped to continue while at HMS.

“I do football, soccer, basketball and baseball and I want to do basketball and baseball here.”

Lumpkin, who comes to Harding by way of Wells Academy, said her transition was also smooth.

“It’s good,” she added. “It’s fun and it’s a good change.”

Lumpkin continued that her interests lay with robotics and band—the latter of which she plays trumpet—plus she enjoys competitive soccer and basketball. Having HMS Band Director Rick Hicks instructing music lessons at Wells also prepared her for the trek because she is comfortable with the teachers.

“I like band,” she continued. “I like being with my friends but I also like learning how to play.”

They both offered advice to other new fifth-graders and also future middle schoolers.

“Don’t be nervous because it’s really fun, and don’t stress or you will feel worse,” Lumpkin commented.

“The lockers are easy if you know how to practice,” Luther said, “and the teachers are nice.”

Photo Caption:

Newly minted middle schooler Charlie Crosier gets to work in her fifth-grade science class at Harding Middle School. This year’s group is the second-highest class in the school with 212 students and counting. Administrators and pupils said events such as Making Memories in the Middle and fourth-grade bump-up days have helped integrate students smoothly into their new environment.

SHS Ticket Office Moved

Posted 8/22/2024 at 1:22:41 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Football season has kicked off and tickets are available for home games at Steubenville High School.

Big Red fans can now purchase tickets for upcoming matchups at the new Pugliese STEM Academy building on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon. Access is available at the entrance beneath the skywalk connector to the high school and presale prices are $7 for adults and $5 for students, while all tickets sold at the ticket window will be $9. Season ticket holders should continue using their black cards as passes for entry as there are no digital passes.

Upcoming home games include Archbishop McNicholas High School on Aug. 23, Obama High School on Sept. 13, Dover on Sept. 20, Linsly on Oct. 4, Huron Heights on Oct. 11, McDowell on Oct. 18, Long Island Lutheran on Oct. 25 and two OHSAA tournaments on Nov. 1 and 8. All games begin at 7 p.m.

For more information, contact athletic secretary Becca Boring at (740) 282-9741, Ext. 7103 or 1195.

Steubenville STARS Program Developed at SHS

Posted 8/22/2024 at 1:18:14 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Students with disabilities will have an opportunity to integrate and become part of the Big Red community through the new Steubenville STARS program now underway.

Located in the former educational STEM wing on the first floor of Steubenville High School, the program will accommodate 30-40 students in grades PreK-12 and provide them with services through highly qualified teachers, therapists and paraprofessionals to support their individual needs. Officials said students will have inclusion opportunities to meet their least restrictive environment and build peer relations. An open house was held prior to the start of classes on Aug. 20 to give families a glimpse of the site, which features four classrooms, a sensory room and access to amenities on the SHS and Wells Academy campus such as the pool and gym.

Principal Jaclyn Walters said the concept has been discussed for more than a year and she was excited to see it come to life.

“There was an idea to make sure behaviorally fragile students are being provided inclusive opportunities in their least restrictive environment and we brainstormed. We eventually want to operate as a typical elementary and high school,” Walters added.

“They can sit in an academic setting and participate in extra activities such as the music program. We’re going to build peer relations through inclusive opportunities.

One of the other opportunities is to use resources such as the pool and gym and have usage of facilities. It comes with therapy and cooperative learning; these are the advantages of us being here.”

The program comes equipped with four classroom units for preschool, grades K-1, 2-5 and high school and employs four teachers, four aides, a nurse, occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech therapist and a board-certified behavioral analyst (BCBA) to provide learning and support services for the pupils. Each classroom has a ratio of five students per teacher while a sensory room is onsite to soothe students in need, a lifeskills room to gain lessons on independent living and clinics for speech, physical and occupational therapy. Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities will also offer assistance to help older pupils transition to work. Meanwhile, the students will partner with a “peer buddy” from the high school’s service learning and Educators Rising organizations who will assist them with reading, instruction and other tasks.

“In preschool, there is a cooperative learning environment while kindergarten and first grade have independent learning. Grades 2-5 is a mix and in high school we’re building to independence,” Walters added.

She said the word was out about the program and she was looking forward to the new venture.

“Parents are aware and excited. This will be building relationships with kids who haven’t been part of Steubenville school activities,” Walters continued. “This has always been my passion. It’s one of the milestones to see and be part of the foundation of this and it’s rewarding. This is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle and I’m proud to be part of it.”

Classes have started for grades K-12 with preschool to begin on Aug. 26 or 27 and students will don Big Red uniforms featuring black, red, white and khaki apparel. For more information, contact Walters at (740) 284-5711 or email [email protected]

Photo Caption: Jaclyn Walters, principal of the Steubenville STARS program just launched at Steubenville High School, prepares for classes as 30-40 PreK-12 begin the new school year. The program offers classrooms, a sensory room, services for occupational, physical and speech therapy, lifeskills training, transition to work and access to activities through SHS and Wells Academy. For more information, contact Walters at (740) 284-5711 or email [email protected].

McKinley STEM Club Fundraising for Florida Trip

Posted 8/21/2024 at 11:47:23 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-The McKinley Marvels STEM Club is raising funds for a planned excursion to Florida next spring, and the public is invited to partake in one upcoming venture on Sept. 7.

The first-annual Superhero Fun Walk/Food Festival will be held at McKinley STEM Academy, which is located at 1400 Adams St., from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration begins at 9 a.m. with the walk to follow at 10 a.m. at a cost of $15 per person.

Organizer Mackenzie Filtz, a fourth-grade teacher at the school, said preregistration is available until Aug. 28 and guarantees those participants a packet complete with T-shirt, race bag and a Marvel surprise. However, more will be taken the day of the event.

Walkers will trek an estimated one-mile route around the neighborhood, beginning at the school along West Adams Street and extending through Cedar Avenue and Plum Street, then looping around Eve Drive to Union Avenue and ending back on the school grounds. First Baptist Church will have a table and water station available and the route will be marked with balloons and colorful signs with some superhero facts on display. The day also includes interactive fun with kid-friendly music, food trucks, vendors, inflatables and a foam party. Filtz said wristbands will be sold for $10-$15 to take part in the inflatables and foam party.

“We have 14 food trucks that RSVP’d to be here and there will be doughnuts and coffee at 9 a.m. and a Zumba dance party. We’re encouraging students to dress as a superhero or wear superhero gear,” she added. “Anyone can attend and it is open to the public.”

Upon their return, participants can purchase goodies from the food trucks while 15 community vendors will have crafts and gift baskets to free information, plus kids can enjoy a DJ, inflatables and a foam party from Screwy Louie’s.

Sponsorships have also been held as another moneymaker with businesses making contributions at the Champion level for $250, Protector for $100, Guardian for $75, Defender at $50 and Sidekick at $25. Filtz said vendors also made a donation or are giving a portion of their sales from the event to benefit the club and the sojourn. She said club members will attend monthly sessions with themed STEM challenges and also travel to Universal and Sea World on March 25-30 to participate in their STEM App series.

“Thirty businesses have become donors and sponsored kids,” she said. “About half of the kids have been funded for the trip and it’s phenomenal.”

A total of 122 students and family members will travel to Orlando and stay at the Cabana Bay Resort. Preschool-through-first graders will enjoy days at Dr. Seuss Land with rides and a character meet-and-greet, a Camp Jurassic interactive area with Raptor Encounter and DreamWorks Land with the Trolls ride and Shrek playground.

Members in the second-to-fourth-grade classes will enjoy storytelling, a Jurassic excursion, a weather program with a local meteorologist to explain STEM careers and how the park plans for conditions and Sea World Marine Animal Care and STEM careers. They and their families can also get to have some free time exploring and having fun.

More fundraisers are set with a red-eye bus trip to New York City on Dec. 6-8. The cost is $175 per person and roughly 20 seats are left. A $25 deposit is needed but payment options are available for the remainder with the final amount due by Nov. 1. Filtz said the tour is being organized through Uniglobe and the buses depart at 11 p.m., while attendants have a free itinerary to view Broadway shows and take in views of the Big Apple. The buses will then depart NYC around 11 p.m. on Dec. 7 and return to Steubenville.

Filtz said T-shirts and pepperoni rolls have also been sold as fundraisers, in addition to the McKinley Marvels STEM Camp was held Aug. 7-9 at the school with themed events from Marvel superheroes and Jurassic Park to Harry Potter. The club has also offered free activities such as a storybook and nature walk at Beatty Park in June and a Harry Potter birthday celebration at the Schiappa Branch Library in July to keep young minds stimulated.

Registration forms for the family walk event may be picked up or dropped off at McKinley STEM Academy from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and checks may be made payable to McKinley STEM with “Fun Walk” in the memo section. For more information, contact Filtz at (740) 310-3566 or email [email protected].

Photo Caption: McKinley STEM Academy’s Marvel STEM Club is hosting a series of moneymakers to finance a trip for members and their families to Universal Theme Park and Sea World in Orlando, Fla., next March. A Superhero Fun Walk/Food Festival is set for Sept. 7 with preregistration taken until Aug. 28, but more will be accepted the day of the event. Other fundraisers included a McKinley Marvel Super Hero STEM camp held on Aug. 7-9 with about 40 PreK-4 students taking part in interactive games, outdoor fun and story telling. Pictured are, from left, Blake Davis, Tucker Felton, John Murray and Jameson Poludniak enjoying some of the creative fun.

Pugliese STEM Academy Opens to Fanfare

Posted 8/14/2024 at 9:28:50 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-It was more than five years ago when Steubenville City Schools officials began brainstorming ways to propel students into 21st Century learning and beyond, and those ideas culminated with the opening of the Pugliese STEM Academy on Aug. 4.

Speeches and a ribbon-cutting ceremony kicked off the festivities as local, state and federal leaders joined educators and the public to tour the $20 million, three-story facility. The building, which is connected to Steubenville High School, features classrooms, a Big Red Store, a makerspace and STEM and career-technical education programs such as aerospace engineering and aviation, agricultural sciences, biomedical sciences, health informatics, global logistics and supply chain management, innovative sciences, information technology, carpentry, multimedia, education, computer science, clean energy and computer-aided design and drafting (CADD). Additionally, the site supports Ohio’s Workforce Development programs in collaboration with Belmont Community College. SHS career-tech programs are tailored for high school students to earn dual credit and College Credit Plus (CCP) credits while aligning with industry recommendations and job outlooks to address both current and future workforce needs. Change, Inc., will also provide health services on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with Well-Child, urgent care, sports physicals and more and future plans to offer dentistry and eye care.

District Superintendent Melinda Young welcomed the crowd and said the dedication of the school board, including president Tom Timmons, vice president Ruth Anne Bruzzese and members Greg Agresta, Matt Davis, Bill Hendricks, along with treasurer Bobby Lamantia and past treasurer Kayla Whitlatch, helped make it all possible.

“This achievement reflects [their] dedication, vision and tireless efforts,” she added. “It it with pride and gratitude that we recognize and honor their exceptional commitment to creating the state-of-the-art STEM building. Their vision was not about constructing a physical space; it was about fostering an environment where innovation thrives, where curiosity is nurtured and where the leaders of tomorrow are empowered to explore, experiment and excel.”

Young said the board navigated through challenges and worked to ensure the building was done without reliance upon local taxpayers, collaborating with stakeholders to ensure students have access to cutting-edge facilities that will prepare them for their future. She also recognized the STEM Leadership Team, which includes project leader Bryan D’Aurora, Glen Wood, Mike Bauman, Rich Nocera and STEM Director Dr. Shana Wydra, saying their efforts and insights were a driving force to ensure the project’s success. More credit went to open house organizers Jayne Browning, Amy Parikakis and Sam Turrentine as well as the Big Red Band and Choir for performing the National Anthem. She also lauded the City of Steubenville for its commitment which was instrumental in bringing the building to life; business partners Change Inc., Jefferson Health Plan, Grae-Con Construction and Hasenstab Architects; staff members, parents and community members; and generous donors Fort Steuben Maintenance, the Mary Jane Brooks Charitable Trust, Frank and Judy Giannamore and the Charles M. and Theresa M. Pugliese Charitable Foundation.

“To the students of Steubenville City Schools, your curiosity, determination and enthusiasm for learning are the driving force behind everything we do,” she said. “The benefits of this state-of-the-art Pugliese STEM Academy to our students are endless. Our students will have access to the latest technology, cutting-edge science labs, the newest industry equipment and collaborative workspaces designed to inspire creativity and critical thinking.”

She said the impact of the building extends far beyond the walls of the school system and will serve as a center for community engagement, fostering friendships among its schools, local businesses, government, community groups, churches and higher education.

“By investing in our students, we are investing in this community. As we stand here today to dedicate this building, let us not only celebrate this remarkable achievement, but also to recommit ourselves to the principles that have brought us to this moment: a belief in the power of education, a dedication to innovation and a vision of a future filled with endless possibilities for our students and community.”

STEM Director Dr. Shana Wydra introduced guests and said the dream commenced when the officials first began discussions in the spring of 2018. At the time, she joined Young, D’Aurora and SHS Principal Ted Gorman in a meeting with Jason Elliott, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, regarding ways to enhance programs and create a hub for students. They contacted the Akron-based Hasenstab and Associates architectural firm, one of the state’s leading STEM architects, who gathered their ideas and formulated a general outline for the STEM center. The COVID pandemic slowed efforts but did not put them at a standstill. Plans were back on track and leaders broke ground in October of 2022 while construction was completed this past May.

“To say this day is an exciting day is an understatement,” Dr. Wydra said. “In March of 2018, we gathered with ideas on how to utilize the great space in Downtown Steubenville to provide a state-of-the-art facility for students and enhance programs we already have.”

Now that it is open, Dr. Wydra said more programs are eyed for the future, particularly in the health sciences since that is a growing field. She has served as STEM director for the past decade and has seen the program consistently grow, but said it is only just beginning.

“We had ideas of what to do and we started small, in my opinion, to finish big. I’ve seen STEM grow everywhere, and the key for us as a district was when we started STEM in the elementary school. They really started implementing it through project-based learning and pushed it through middle school when students would know what they want to do,” she continued.

Further remarks were shared by Lee Kinney, a representative of the Charles M. and Theresa M. Pugliese Charitable Foundation, on the legacy of the Puglieses through the new building. He recalled how the foundation assisted the district in 2008 by providing $1 million when SCS sought a $17 million bond and another $2 million to begin the STEM program.

“We’ve given another $1 million for the STEM building,” Kinney said. “It’s a great addition, not only to Steubenville but to the school and students.”

School Board President Tom Timmons proudly gave an alphabetical affirmation to the building, citing it as “awesome” to “zesty.” He shared that the STEM center elevated the school district’s capabilities to prepare students for tomorrow.

“It’s a beautiful addition to Downtown Steubenville and it’s a beautiful addition to Steubenville City Schools,” Timmons commented. “We’re so proud of this building and all the work that went into it. It creates plenty of opportunities for everyone. We’re just really proud and it makes one of the best schools in the state even better.

Big Red got bigger and redder. I want to thank everyone who made it possible. Roll, Redder, Roll!”

U.S. Congressman Michael Rulli (R-Ohio) said he had local ties through his wife and mother, who were city natives, and he was impressed by what has been established at the STEM academy.

“When I came to Steubenville, I learned about the STEM building. With STEM, the rubber meets the road, and I’m proud to be part of this,” Congressman Rulli added.

Ohio Sen. Brian Chavez (R-30th District) said he was part of STEM-related opportunities when he was a student and it propelled him to work as a chemical engineer.

“It will create great things for you,” he said of the facility. “It will help you help yourself.”

SHS Principal Ted Gorman said the programs the building offers will prepare students well into the future.

“We are embarking on a journey of celebration, innovation and progress,” Gorman commented. “This building will benefit every student, staff member, family, and community member. It is an honor to be a part of this journey, and I look forward to these new beginnings, as well as new opportunities to expand our knowledge and provide our students with experiences that will last a lifetime.

“We are confident that the new building will not only provide our high school students with unparalleled educational opportunities but also contribute to the growth and development of the Steubenville area. Moreover, graduates from our STEM program will have opportunities to pursue high-paying careers that could keep them in the Steubenville area, further strengthening our community. We are excited about the addition of the new STEM building. It represents our school district's identity and emphasizes our commitment to providing students with a state-of-the-art facility supporting innovative educational programs. This will prepare our students for future career opportunities beyond high school. In 25 years from now, our new STEM building will continue to be the envy of many other schools, not just in this area but also around the state.”

The ceremony closed with a ribbon cutting and guests had a chance to view the building and even test some of the high-tech equipment, including flight simulators, plus they enjoyed a bevy of food trucks available along a closed section of Fourth Street. Attendants were enthusiastic about all the Pugliese STEM Academy had to offer and said it added a major asset to the district’s educational program.

“It feels so different being back, but it feels good,” said Robert Stewart, a 2024 SHS alumnus.

“It’s really cool. I think it’s really creative,” added Nolan Lopez, a sixth-grader at Harding Middle School, who noted his excitement about learning at the building in upcoming years.

“It’s very nice. We’re up to par with how the world is today and I’m very grateful to Big Red for this,” said attendant Kim Creech.

“This is the future,” said participant Paul Rue. “People should take advantages of the opportunities we got.”

Photo Caption: The public got their chance to view the Pugliese STEM Academy during a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house on Aug. 4. School and community leaders gathered to celebrate the $20 million, state-of-the-art facility and people got a chance to view the three-story building, which is equipped with classrooms, STEM and career-tech education programs and more to prepare students for well into the future.

Kellermier Places Seventh at National Competition

Posted 8/14/2024 at 9:26:30 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Newly minted Steubenville High School grad Lorraine Kellermier shined at the 2024 National Educators Rising Conference in Washington, D.C., this summer, earning a Top 10 spot at competition.

Kellermier was among more than 3,300 people attending the event at the Marriott Marquis on June 27-July 1 in the nation’s capital and earned seventh place among 33 contenders within her category. According to its website, Educators Rising is a community-based movement from PDK International in which school chapters feed teacher preparation programs at institutes of higher education with the support of state Departments of Education and local fundraisers and foundations. The goal is “to provide a clear pathway to increase teacher diversity and teacher quality.”

“Educators Rising is an organization that is supportive to students who want to one day become teachers,” Kellermier explained. “There is a club in my school that provides opportunities such as teaching experience, education about teaching and competitions and conferences. I had a lot of fun with this conference and competition.”

Kellermier, who resides in Wintersville with guardian Linda Schoppe, served as president of the Educators Rising Club and was active in drama club and the principal’s advisory council during her time at SHS. She qualified for the nationals after placing within the Top 10 at the state event and was happy with the results at nationals.

“I actually just graduated from Steubenville High School, but I participated in the conference and competition as a senior,” she said. “I received a certificate for seventh place in the category of lesson planning and delivery for humanities. For the competition, I made a lesson plan on nonsense poetry, recorded myself teaching this lesson to a real class and sent them in to the judges ahead of time, then I was asked many questions about the lesson and delivery of the lesson during the conference. I was very excited about placing.”

She attended with teacher leader M.J. Burkett and teacher Whitney Boni and took part in breakout sessions when not in competition, plus she did some sightseeing in her free time. Kellermier received her certificate after returning home and is already preparing for the next chapter of her life.

“I am heading off to college at Ohio University to study integrated Language Arts education,” she said.

Teacher leader M.J. Burkett was pleased to see his pupil succeed and said she shows plenty of promise leading a classroom of her own.

“I am very proud of Lorraine's accomplishments, particularly placing seventh in the national Educators Rising competition. Lorraine has persevered many challenges in her young life and I'm confident that she will use those experiences to make a deep connection with her future students,” Burkett commented. “I look forward to seeing her realize her dreams of becoming a teacher and making a difference in the lives of her students.”

Photo Caption: Recent Steubenville High School graduate Lorraine Kellermier earned seventh place in her category during the 2024 National Educators Rising Conference in Washington, D.C., this summer and was among more than 3,300 people attending the event. She is now gearing up to be the head of her own class by studying integrated Language Arts education in college.

Steubenville Schools Earn Project Lead The Way Distinction

Posted 6/12/2024 at 6:41:51 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville City Schools has earned national distinction after five of its buildings were named Project Lead The Way Schools for the 2023-24 term.

Harding Middle School has been recognized as a PLTW Gateway Distinguished School while East Garfield Elementary, McKinley STEM Academy, Pugliese West Elementary and Wells Academy all received honors as PLTW Launch Distinguished Schools.

According to PLTW officials, Harding’s honor is given to a select number of middle schools across the country for providing broad access to transformative learning experiences through PLTW Gateway, a grade 6-8 STEM curriculum. PLTW is a national nonprofit organization that serves millions of PreK-12 students and teachers in schools throughout the nation. The recognition honors schools committed to increasing student access, engagement and achievement in their PLTW programs. To be eligible for the designation, Harding Middle School had to meet a variety of criteria such as the percentage of students participating in PLTW, the percentage of students who participate in more than one PLTW unit, the number of PLTW units offered and efforts to ensure equitable access to its courses.

HMS Principal Bryan Mills said Harding was excited to receive the honor.

“Several staff members put a lot of time in last year to become qualified to teach the various PLTW courses offered. I am thankful to those that helped HMS expand our STEM curriculum,” he continued. “Students in every grade are now offered a broad scope of the various STEM courses offered through PLTW. With these opportunities, the students will have more choices and exposure to the various STEM careers before they ever reach the high school. PLTW has brought a hands-on inspiring curriculum focusing on career readiness. The excitement for these classes has re-energized the students' interests in the STEM careers.”

Research indicates that middle grades play a pivotal role in influencing high school, college and career success. During this transitional time, it is crucial to provide students with access to relevant, engaging and real-world learning experiences that expose the range of career paths and possibilities available to them. PLTW Gateway students engage in critical and creative thinking, build teamwork skills and develop confidence in STEM subjects.

“We are honored to recognize Harding Middle School for their commitment to providing students with exceptional educational experiences while ensuring equitable access to PLTW programs,” said Dr. David Dimmett, PLTW president and CEO. "We congratulate them on this achievement and celebrate their dedication to empowering students with the knowledge and skills to succeed, not only in STEM subjects, but preparing them for future careers and life beyond the classroom."

East Garfield, McKinley STEM Academy, Pugliese West and Wells Academy were also chosen among elementary schools across the U.S. to receive the PLTW Launch Distinguished School title for providing broad access to transformative learning experiences for students through PLTW Launch, an elementary STEM curriculum that aims to make every child STEM successful.

The recognition honors schools committed to increasing student access, engagement and achievement in their PLTW programs. To be eligible, the four buildings had had to have more than 75 percent of the student body participating in the program and had to offer at least one PLTW Launch module at each grade level during the 2022-23 school year. PLTW Launch students engage in critical and creative thinking, build teamwork skills and develop a passion for and confidence in STEM subjects. Dr. Dimmett further noted his pride in the local schools’ achievements.

“We are honored to recognize [the four schools] for their commitment to providing students with exceptional educational experiences while ensuring equitable access to PLTW programs,” he added. "We congratulate them on this achievement and celebrate their dedication to empowering students with the knowledge and skills to succeed, not only in STEM subjects, but also preparing them for future careers and life beyond the classroom."

Heather Hoover, district PLTW lead launch educator, was elated about the distinction.

“We are in our fourth year of implementing Project Lead the Way and have found this program to be both rewarding to our students' growth and understanding of global concerns with an engineering design process focus. Schools who have received this distinction have demonstrated the compacity to provide their students with engaging modules produced by PLTW and produce results with student project outcomes,” Hoover said. “Within these modules, students have the ability to engage with their peers to develop solutions to everyday problems that most students would never be exposed to during the school day. Receiving this award demonstrates our district's commitment to our students and their future.”

The principals of each school were equally thrilled with the honor.

“Only so many elementary schools are chosen and it’s such an honor to be included,” said East Garfield Principal Tricia Saccoccia. “Our teachers are trained in the district on modules and making it effective with the students.”

“We’re always happy to receive awards and see academics in Steubenville City Schools continue to excel,” said McKinley STEM Academy Principal Donnie Reeves.

“We feel honored to be recognized as a Project Lead the Way Distinguished School. We know that it is important to expose our students to the many aspects of STEM education and careers at an early age,” noted Pugliese West Principal Lynnett Gorman. “We take pride in the opportunities we have here at West that spark our students' creativity and curiosity in our students.”

“It is a huge honor for our school. We are grateful that we were chosen for this award,” quippped Wells Academy Principal Tommy Kotsanis. “This honor is given to a select number of elementary schools across the U.S. PLTW supports STEM learning and allows students to explore and collaborate with other students to work on real-world scenarios.”

Meanwhile, Steubenville City Schools Superintendent Melinda Young said the recognition was an amazing achievement.

“The recent recognition of Harding, East Garfield, Pugliese, McKinley STEM and Wells schools for achieving the Project Lead The Way (PLTW) distinction is a significant milestone. This accomplishment underscores the schools' commitment to providing high-quality STEM education and preparing students for future success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. PLTW is a prestigious program that emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration skills. By integrating PLTW into their curriculum, these schools are not only enhancing the educational experience but also ensuring that their students are equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly technical and innovative world,” Young concluded. “This distinction highlights the dedication of the educators, administrators and students at these schools. It reflects their hard work in implementing a rigorous and engaging curriculum that meets the high standards set by PLTW. The recognition is also a testament to the support from the community and the continuous efforts to improve educational outcomes. Overall, receiving the PLTW distinction is a noteworthy achievement that will undoubtedly benefit the students at Harding, East Garfield, Pugliese, McKinley STEM and Wells, setting a strong foundation for their future academic and professional endeavors.”

University Scholars Honored at Steubenville

Posted 5/30/2024 at 4:13:23 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville High School celebrated seniors during the annual University Scholars Breakfast on May 21.

About 200 people gathered in the Crimson Commons to recognize 52 honor students, including its Top 10 and University Scholars. The student-led program began with a welcome by Madalynn Criss, who thanked everyone for being such a positive influence in the students’ lives.

“Somewhere along the way you influenced our lives for the better. Without your hard work and dedication, our success and accomplishments would not be possible,” Criss added. “As as class, we were determined to leave a positive mark on Steubenville Big Red. We worked tirelessly to balance academics, extracurricular activities, community service and our personal lives.”

As a result, she said the class earned 80 Ohio Honor Diplomas, 52 Associate of Art degrees from Eastern Gateway Community College and donated more than 10,000 hours of community service.

“We will continue our quest to make Steubenville proud as 100 percent of us continue our journey to be successful citizens of this community,” she concluded.

Tiarra Williams introduced special guests, including school board members and adminstrators, and thanked them for their unwaivering support.

“I stand here with great pride knowing I will become a Steubenville High School alumni. I received a first-class education from the Steubenville City School District,” Williams said. “I will begin my journey with an Associate of Art Degree from Eastern Gateway Community College. This would not be possible without our board of education.”

She recognized school board President Tom Timmons, Vice President Ruth Anne Bruzzese and members Greg Agresta, Matt Davis, William Hendricks and Robert Lamantia, who received tokens of appreciation. She also lauded Sarah Fletcher and Patrick Carbon for their dedication to the College Credit Plus program plus SCS Superintendent Melinda Young, SHS Principal Ted Gorman, high school Assistant Principals Aaron Newman and Deanna Beall, Harding Middle School Principal Bryan Mills, HMS Assistant Principals Jen Agresta and Ciarra Jones, Wells Academy Principal Tommy Kotsanis, Pugliese West Elementary Principal Lynette Gorman, McKinley STEM Academy Principal Donnie Reeves and East Garfield Elementary Principal Tricia Saccoccia, SHS Guidance Counselor Adele Filtz, district Director of Gifted Education Jackie Reeves and guidance secretary Karen Olesky. Williams further spotlighted the class’s favorite teachers and staff members, which included John Abram, Justin Banks, Julie Battistel, Deanna Beall, Joe Biasi, M.J. Burkett, Natalie Campana, Jessica Cheslar, Jessie Clark, Justin Davis, Heather Davis, Ross Ivkovich, Cierra Jones, Eliza Kelley, Anthony Kinyo, Scott Lane, Diane Mankowski, Jacqueline Meek, Cheryl Metcalf, Emily Miller, Miranda Moray, Michele Moss, Sara Nocera, Dina Rosnick, Ron Salvino, Joe Smarrella, Angela Staffilino, Rosalind Thacker, Alan Thompson, Wendy Tucker and Scott Wolodkin.

“Thank you for inspiring us to be the best of the best. You have instilled a passion for Steubenville City Schools into us. Thank you for pushing us and giving us 110 percent every day,” Williams noted.

Sarah Allen led the invocation, which was followed by the breakfast.

Sabria Jones introduced a very special guest, her mother Glenda Jones, who presented remarks as the parent representative. Jones, a SHS alumna and graduate of Walsh University, holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology. She has worked at the Jefferson County Department of Job and Family Services for 32 years and currently serves as program administrator fof the children’s services division and the McCullough Children’s Home.

“You are an amazing group of young people,” Jones said. “Take advantage of the opportunities you receive. We as your parents and teachers are very proud of you.”

She also offered “motherly” advice, such as saying prayers, doing what’s right when nobody is watching, asking questions and calling home.

Maleea Crownover then offered some encouraging words for the future and Christian Hoffman gave a thank-you speech.

“To my fellow classmates, as we stand on the threshold of the future, let us embrace the endless possibilities that await us with open arms and eager harts,” Crownover said. “For each of us has embarked on a unique journey, filled with success, challenges and moments of self-discovery. Now, as we take this pivotal step into the next chapter of our lives, let us carry with us the lessons we have learned and the memories we have created.”

“To the Class of 2024, congratulations! Over the past years, we’ve not only grown academically but also personally,” Hoffman added. “We’ve tackled challenging projects, excelled in sports, performed in art and music and contributed to our community.”

He then recognized influential teachers who have guided the class and imparted their knowledge, thanking them for serving as role models.

University Scholars were introduced by Valedictorian Liam O’Brien, Salutatorian Jorja Anderson and Ari Bowman. Among them were Top 10 students Madalyn Criss, Tiarra Williams, Sarah Allen, Sabria Jones, Maleea Crownover, Christian Hoffman, Liam O’Brien, Jorja Anderson, Ari Bowman and Gia Bowman as well as Trinity Allen, Kami Anthony, Julia Arlesic, Addyson Banks, Gabriella Becker, Mya Bonecutter,Braydon Book, Kaymen Brown, Ashley Cochrane, Addison Connor, Madison Cooper, Lawrence Daniels, Kylee Dennis, Kayleigh Desrocher, Nya Dunburg-Ingram, Jordan Fritz-Ratcliff, Richard George, Juliana Gresko, Josiah Hopple, Jace Kernahan, Layla Lombardo, Isabella Loy, Aydan Manning, Ryan Manning, Emma McFarland, Jordan Miller, Tey’Jah Montgomery, Connor Morris, Isaac Morris, Raegan Murison, Carmen Nocera, Nicholas Nurczyk, Brandon Reese, Devon Renforth, Ciarra Rossi, Alisandra Sagun, Jayda Stinson, Isabella Thompson, Ashley Toothman, Dezirae Ware, Brianne Wells, Alyssa Wineman, Breanna Wineman and Austin Zgurski.

Finally, Gia Bowman closed the event.

Photo Caption: Steubenville High School recognized some of its best and brightest during the annual University Scholars Breakfast on Tuesday. About 52 students were joined by their families as well as educators and school board members for the celebration.

Wells Imagineers Going to Walt Disney World

Posted 4/29/2024 at 6:04:55 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE- Twenty-four students at Wells Academy are going to Walt Disney World next week to combine physics with a little fun.

Fourth-graders involved in the Disney Imagineers Club will head to Orlando, Fla., on May 5-10 to visit the Disney Imagination Campus and learn some behind-the-scenes details about the park’s mechanics. Teachers Katie Mills, Jen D’Ortenzio, Heather Koehnlein and Heather Davis coordinate the school program and the 26-member group meets weekly to conduct Disney-themed STEM lessons. Mills said the trip will put a lot of that knowledge into perspective.

“The classes consist of combining physics and creativity. We try to replicate what Disney is all about and make their magic,” she said. “They will go to a class on the technology of physics and a class on the Animal Kingdom on taking care of gentle giants, or elephants. We’ve prepared through sessions and combine the curriculum with physics.”

The school club partners with Walt Disney Imagineering, the creative force behind the design and construction of all of its theme parks, resorts, attractions and more, and the fourth-graders have met in afterschool sessions that incorporate the Disney theme. Mills added that the pupils complete many hands-on experiments as part of their education while fundraisers have also been held to cover costs for the trip.

“Our fundraisers are more memorable for the kids because they are working to raise the money,” she said.

One moneymaker is the summer Disney Camp which runs from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in June and is open to grades K-4.

Mills said a Jr. Imagineers program was also started at the school to inspire even younger grade to become interested in eventually joining the fourth-grade group. About 70 kindergarten through third-graders take part and meet once a month.

“The Imagineers learn the standards and curriculum while the Jr. Imagineers engage the students for the future to open doors to what being an Imagineer looks like,” she explained.

A special “Clap Out” event will be held in the hallway on Thursday, May 2 at 9 a.m. to cheer on the departing Imagineers in the hallway before they head to the Sunshine State.

(Photo Caption: The Imagineers Club at Wells Academy will visit Walt Disney World on May 5-10 to learn about the physics behind the attractions at the Disney Imagination Campus. About 24 fourth-graders will be attending and have prepared with Disney-themed lessons throughout the year. Pictured are, from left, McKinley Brown and Finley Trifonoff with their “Little Mermaid”-based creation. A “Clap Out” will be held on Thursday to cheer on the departing students in the school’s hallway.)

Battle of the Books on April 10

Posted 4/6/2024 at 1:41:15 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Students at Pugliese West Elementary will put their reading skills to the test during Battle of the Books on April 10.

School SFA Instructional coach Krystal Yourkovich, who is organizing the event, said 42 third- and fourth-graders will participate in a series of contests at Steubenville High School from 5-8 p.m. Activities will be held in the commons area and gym with trivia-type competitions to win prizes.

“All Pugliese West families are welcome to come to the commons and view projects that students have completed that go along with the novels we have read and speak to some of our literacy community partnerships such as the Schiappa Library, Sycamore Center and JB Green Team,” Yourkovich said, adding that those activities will occur from 5-6 p.m. “There will be a concession stand selling pizza, hot dogs, candy, chips and water. From 6-8 p.m., the teams will battle in the gym with three rounds of questions and 15 questions per round about the five books we’ve read.”

Nine teams will be competing and each participant will receive a medal and certificate while the winning team also gains trophies and gift cards.

Battle of the Books is in its first year at the school and is based on a similar event at a school in Montour, Pa.. A team of school educators, including Principal Lynnett Gorman, reviewed a list of suggested stories online and then choose titles they believed would interest the students. Among the selected stories are “Shiloh,” by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor; “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” and “The Tiger Rising,” both by Kate DiCamillo; “The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe,” by C.S. Lewis; and “The Toothpaste Millionaire,” by Jean Merrill.

Parent volunteers have meet with the teams to prepare and one team will be named champion.

“The teams have been meeting weekly or bi-weekly since the second week in January,” Yourkovich added. “The purpose is to promote teamwork, build relationships among students and families, as well as introduce students to novels they have never read and develop a stronger love for reading.”

She said it has also enhanced literacy and comprehension skills among students and she hopes to see Battle of the Books become an annual event with even more teams participating.

“The students and coaches have worked so hard to prepare for this battle. I hope that the students from Pugliese West and their families will join us on the night of the event to show their support and cheer them on.”

Steubenville Schools Gain Overall 5-Star Rating

Posted 4/3/2024 at 5:47:38 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE- The Steubenville City School District and three of its buildings have achieved Overall 5-Star ratings for their performance from state education officials.

The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce recently recognized exceptional performances in Ohio’s districts and buildings on 2022-2023 Report Card, and the Steubenville City School District is one of 75 districts across the state to be recognized as an Overall 5-Star District. Additionally, Harding Middle School, Pugliese West Elementary and Wells Academy achieved an Overall 5-Star rating and were among 362 school buildings across the state to earn the distinction.

The district’s honor was based on exceeding standards by earning an overall five stars on the traditional report card for their performance across five rated components, including achievement, progress, gap closing, early literacy and graduation. The buildings were awarded for exceeding state standards by earning an overall five stars for components such as achievement, progress, gap closing, early literacy, graduation and college, career, workforce and military readiness.

ODEW Director Stephen Dackin congratulated school officials in a formal letter, stating the remarkable accomplishment reflected an unwavering commitment to excellence and the outstanding services provided to the students and community.

“It is a testament to your dedication, hard work and the quality of education you provide to your students,” Dackin continued. “It recognizes the devoted teachers and staff who consistently go above and beyond, ensuring that all students receive exceptional learning and instruction. Your tireless efforts in nurturing young minds, fostering a positive learning environment and promoting holistic development has not gone unnoticed. Your impact extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the future leaders of tomorrow.”

He lauded teachers, administrators, support staff and students for their contributions and added that the distinction would serve as a source of motivation to inspire, innovate and make a difference in the lives of the students.

“Your dedication to excellence sets a shining example for educational institutions everywhere,” Dackin concluded.

Superintendent Melinda Young was pleased with the honor.

“The 5-Star rating is the result of the dedication of our students, staff and parents,” Young said.

Harding Middle School Principal Bryan Mills said it was a concerted effort and was thankful to everyone involved.

“It’s an exciting honor and a reflection of the hard work of the teachers and the students who are willing to come to school and work hard,” he said. “The community is very supportive and the school board and Mrs. Young provide us with whatever we need. It’s a reflection of the distributive leadership from the assistant principals to the custodians.”

About 780 fifth-through-eighth-graders attend HMS and Mills said the goal has been to ensure students succeed and learn.

“It’s the result of the intervention team to close gaps and accelerate student achievement. We’re using intervention to level the playing field.”

Pugliese West Principal Lynnett Gorman was equally thrilled to have her school receive the honor, saying everyone was dedicated to ensuring the 480 students in grades PreK-4 have the best learning opportunities available.

“We are very excited and honored to receive the recognition,” she said. “Our teachers work very hard to create an educational environment that engages all students. I feel our students, our staff, our teachers and our West families deserve this recognition. To be part of a district such as ours that takes pride in the students’ educational success is an honor.”

Wells Academy Principal Tommy Kotsanis echoed those sentiments, saying his school’s 340 pupils in grades PreK-4 received the best education possible to thrive.

“Consistency and structure build an outstanding program for academic success at Wells Academy,” he said.

(Photo Caption: Steubenville City Schools and three of its buildings have gained Overall 5-Star recognition for exceeding state standards in key components from achievement and gap closing to early literacy and graduation. The district was among 75 across the state lauded by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce while Harding Middle School, Pugliese West Elementary and Wells Academy were among 360 schools earning distriction. Pictured are students at Pugliese West practicing their reading with partners in the classroom.)

Steubenville BOE Lauds Police Officials

Posted 3/25/2024 at 11:00:12 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

The Steubenville City School Board of Education honored the Steubenville Police Department during the March 20 meeting for its unparalleled response time in under two minutes to emergency calls and showcasing an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the community. The school board extends its deepest appreciation and gratitude to the police department for its commitment, professionalism and sacrifice in keeping the community safe. Pictured are, from left, Police Chief Kenny Anderson, school board President Tom Timmons and Officer Joey Buchmelter.

East Garfield Students Bring Art to Life

Posted 3/1/2024 at 10:53:18 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Students at East Garfield Elementary are embracing art throughout history and bringing them to life.

Pupils in grades K-4 have been studying the stylings of various artists and created their own pieces in teacher Marla Phillips’ art classes. Many recognized creative minds in honor of Black History Month and showcased shapes and textures in a unique light. Phillips has done the projects for the past five years and said they have become quite popular.

“I think Black History Month is very important and these are Black Americans who have done important things and don’t always get recognized,” she said.

Kindergarteners made geometric and organic shapes in the style of master colorist Reggie Laurent while first-graders have created mosaics similar to Alma Thomas, the first African-American woman to study art at Howard Universtiy.

“These projects vary depending on the student’s grade level,” Phillips said. “I included [the geometrical project] because I teach art and one of the elements is shape. [Laurent] uses organic and geometric shapes and the kids traced shapes and also created their own.”

Second-graders formed African personality masks and third-graders held an art contest for literacy night featuring free drawings and colorful renderings layered with crayon to depict texture. Fourth-graders literally put themselves into paintings with recreations of many famous works.

She noted that those students learned about notable 20^th Century African-American artist Kehinde Wiley, who is best known for his colorful portrait of President Barack Obama, and posed as figures in famous portraits from the past. Among them were Johannes Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” to Leonardo da Vinci’s “Lady with an Ermine.” Phillips said the Wiley projects have become popular and students use their imagination in their artwork.

“I tend to use the same ones and everyone creates art differently. They are different every single year.”

Phillips made a “Look What I Can Do” display on one wall of the school displaying the famous artists and using Wiley’s method of staging past portraits with vibrant colors and flowers in the background. Students put themselves in Belgian surrealist Rene Magritte’s “The Son of Man,” Sergey Malyutin’s “Portrait of Dmitry Furmanov” and more.

(Photo Caption: Students at East Garfield Elementary School have honed their creativity by completing works based on some famous artists. Art teacher Marla Phillips showcased stylings by Black artists for Black Hisotry Month and fourth-graders learned about Kehinde Wiley, a 20^th Century artist known for recreating past portraits with colorful backgrounds. Pictured are student Vincent Moyers, who depicted Rembrandt’s self-portrait; Amiya Hayes, who chose Pablo Picasso’s “Portrait of Dora Maar”; and Cayden Lyons with his selection, Sergey Malyutin’s “Portrait of Dmitry Furmanov.”)

Newman Getting Glimpse of Military Life at EOV

Posted 3/1/2024 at 2:18:26 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville High School Assistant Principal Aaron Newman is getting a first-hand look at military life as he attends the U.S. Navy’s Educator Orientation Visit (EOV) this coming week.

Newman will head to Jacksonville, Fla., on March 4-6 with six other Ohio educators to tour in-port Navy commands and installations as part of the recruiting command program and learn all about being in the Armed Forces. Participants may include state and local school officials and centers of influence (COIs), such as superintendents, school board presidents, administrators, teachers, counselors, university presidents, professors, college placement officials, coaches, career specialists, youth group leaders and others on a case-by-case basis who have a direct association with the student and workforce markets, plus they have an important role in helping recruiters build relationships with their communities, schools and students.

The visit gives civilians a close-up look at what the Navy has to offer and they learn what educational opportunities are available. Participants get a chance to tour a naval squadron, ship, submarine and other naval training facilities and witness the daily life of a sailor, listen to their stories and view the pride and professionalism of those serving our country. In return, educators share that insight with students so they can make educated choices about their future and know how the military could benefit them.

U.S. Navy Education Specialist Dawn Batross said the group will visit Naval Air Stations in Jacksonville and Mayport, view ships, the search-and-rescue school and working dogs, watch an enlistment ceremony and take part in flight and ship simulations.

“The purpose is to take educators that may not have as much knowledge about the Navy and help them learn so they may share information with their peers and students,” Batross said, adding that a total of 16 educators generally attend over two trips each year. “Everyone we’ve taken has thoroughly enjoyed it and took back information they’ve never had before. It gives civilians an eye into what it’s like to be a sailor on a day-to-day basis and they get to see a lot of sailors who are young--kids who are similar to their kids’ age-- in action.”

Newman was invited by regional Navy recruiter Chief Stephen Jackson and selected by commanding officers but said few participants are chosen. He was approved last month and said he was excited to go, especially since he has always been a strong proponent of the military and has actively encouraged SHS students to join.

“From the outset of my time here, I’ve wanted to strengthen our relationship with the U.S. Armed Forces,” he commented. “I believe more young people should consider the options provided by the Armed Forces, everything from the National Guard to the Navy and all branches in between.”

Today’s Navy is comprised of more than 332,000 members, including enlisted personnel, officers to reservists, Navy Department civilians officers and active duty personnel in over 150 career specialties. Newman said the benefits of enlisting in the military are plentiful, from paid schooling and lifetime insurance to job security and educational opportunities for servicepeople’s children through the G.I. Bill.

“Whether you enlist or apply for R.O.T.C., there are significant advantages to utilizing the programs offered through the various branches. You come out of school without the incredible debt many people are saddled with,” he continued.

Newman has worked with area recruiters for the past five years, inviting them into the school to speak in classrooms and having them set up tables and meet with students in the commons. He said there has been a definite uptick in student enlistments during that timeframe, estimating a 10-to-20-percent hike. Newman was most proud of recent recruits over the past few years, including one alumni who was selected for the U.S. Naval Academy and another who enlisted and is part of the U.S. Navy Nuclear Program.

He was grateful to Principal Ted Gorman and Steubenville City Schools Superintendent Melinda Young for their support as he attended the EOV. Newman hoped to get acquainted with programs, learn about the career paths and be part of something many civilians never get a chance to experience.

In a way, Newman believes he is coming full circle. He said he was selected for the U.S. Naval Academy 30 years ago but opted to attend college, yet his interest in the Armed Forces has continued to run deep.

“I’m ready to see the work of these patriots in action,” he concluded. “In my mind, I’m enlisting for the duration of my time there. I’m going to soak up the information with this experience and have the tangible benefits to share with our students for many years to come.”

(Photo Caption: Steubenville High School Assistant Principal Aaron Newman will take part in the U.S. Navy’s Educator Orientation Visit (EOV) in Jacksonville, Fla., on March 4-6, joining six others from Ohio to tour naval facilities and learn what the Navy offers to recruit new personnel. Newman has been an active proponent in the military and said he will use that knowledge to build a relationship between recruiters and students.)

Harding Students Earn Regional DAR Honors

Posted 2/20/2024 at 11:37:46 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

Students at Harding Middle School recently earned honors in a regional Daughters of the American Revolution contest and now advance to the state competition with winners to be announced in March. This year’s theme was the 50^th Anniversary of the NASA Space Shuttle Program and categories included poster, stamp, photo essay, banner, poem, short story, community service or graphic comic. Among the students gaining recognition were, front from left, Navi Pearson, Nate Rock, Ben Klepack, Riot Diamond, Jace Stanton, Colton Davis and Bailey Ingram. Second row: Alaina Ford, Valerie Kellenbarger, Addy Stackhouse, Emily Peckens, Kyla Caniff, Chloe Peckens and Emily George. Third row: Addy Romanyak, Avery Zorne, Isabella, Romey, Renee Paris, Molly King, Paiton Vrable, Teagan Babel and Zain Creel. Back: Nate Spencer, Kaiden Anderson, Kalyb Carter, Christopher Prentice, Andy Brown, Troy Dixon-Lamb and Tom Lukach.

SHS Blood Drive Helps Save Lives

Posted 2/15/2024 at 3:27:59 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville High School drew students, staff and community members for the triannual blood drive on Feb. 13.

Donors showed their heart during the Valentine’s week by giving blood for the latest campaign, which was a collaboration between the SHS Nike Club and American Red Cross. Club members operated the registration and snack tables while Red Cross medical staff collected the precious life-saving liquid to benefit area hospitals.

Teacher Jessica Cheslar oversaw the student group and said 41 people registered for the final program of the year.

“Everything went really great,” Cheslar said. “We had an awesome turnout. We had [Nike members] do check-ins, snacks and check on the donors, plus they do setup and cleanup.”

The Nike Club hoped to collect 30 units of blood, which would be in addition to the 57 units it obtained at earlier events this past year. It would put the group above the 75-unit minimum for two scholarships which will be given to seniors who donated at all three of the blood drives this year. More importantly, it would also assist in meeting a demand in the nation’s blood supply which has seen donations plummet since COVID.

Students and area residents were either first-time or repeat contributors and agreed it was an important cause.

Nike Club member Serenity Casco, a senior at SHS, did not participate this time but has donated twice in the past. She was inspired by advisor Katrina Morrow and wanted to help others.

“Miss Morrow said it would be good and I’ve given blood before,” Casco added.

Sophomore Grace Jordan rolled up her sleeve for the campaign and said it was a new experience.

“This is my first time,” Jordan said. “A few people in my class talked about it and I thought I’d do it. I like the feeling of helping other people.”

Senior Josh Hillman is a repeat donor and said it runs in the family.

“I’ve donated twice this year. My parents do it and I like helping others,” he said. “I would recommend that other students do it to help the community.”

Senior Madison Hickey said she has donated a half-dozen times through the years.

“It’s a good thing to do to help people,” she commented.

Area residents who gave of themselves included Teresa Schaefer, who travelled across the river from Follansbee.

“This is my second time [donating in the valley]. I have rare blood—O Negative—and it helps anybody.”

Schafer said she has also contributed in Pittsburgh in honor of her father, who was a firefighter.

(Photo Caption: Madison Hickey, a senior at Steubenville High School, supported the Nike Club’s triannual blood drive that was held in collaboration with the American Red Cross on Feb. 13. Dozens of school and community members turned out to help save lives and fill a critical blood shortage during the student group’s final collection of the year. Pictured with Hickey is Tim Brown, a collectionist with the ARC, while junior and Nike Club officer Shalecia Barbee looks on.)

Literacy Night Incorporates One School, One Book Program

Posted 2/13/2024 at 7:25:44 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-McKinley STEM Academy will open its doors to students and their families for an evening of fun activities during literacy night on Feb. 29.

Events will take place from 4-6 p.m. and surrounds the school’s One School, One Book selection, “Hidden Figures: The Untold Story of the Black Women Who Helped Win the Space Race,” by Margot Lee Shetterly. The biographical book details the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, three mathematicians who worked at NACA and NASA during the space race and how they overcame discrimination as women and African Americans. Also featured is Christine Darden, who was the first African-American woman promoted to the senior executive service for her work in researching supersonic flight and sonic booms.

McKinley STEM Academy kicked off its One School, One Book program on Feb. 12 and allows the entire school family to read, discuss, participate in and celebrate a particular text over an assigned period of time. About 172 pupils participate in daily classroom activities to enhance the book and its ideas. Festivities include a daily trivia contest to earn prizes for correctly answering questions about the book while parents may also complete activities with their child at home. Students who complete the activities will also be entered into a drawing to win a daily “Read and Respond” prize. The theme will carry over into literacy night festivities.

“Families will have the opportunity to construct and launch straw rockets, visit a student-constructed planetarium, enjoy a project walk and participate in a few other STEM activities,” said Heather Hoover, Success for All facilitator and gifted coordinator. “One thing that we are doing differently this year is that our fourth graders will host a live wax museum honoring a individual who has made a significant impact in society, either with a particular invention, discovery or social change.”

She said literacy night has been a popular draw and expects it to be no different this time.

“Throughout the years, we have had a few hundred people attend this event and plan to have about the same number this year,” she added, saying it was a way to bring families together to learn.

“Holding a literary night is a way to promote and encourage reading. It is also a time to celebrate authors, stories and cultures from around the world. When selecting our One School, One Book theme, we attempt to select a book that connects with our students. Last year was the first time we had ever selected an expository text, ‘The Secret Garden of George Washington Carver’ by Gene Barretta, for this project. To our surprise, we had an overwhelming response from not only our parents, but our students as well. We decided to stick with this theme again and selected ‘Hidden Figures.’ Typically, students are reluctant to select an expository text to read, but when it is presented in a manner that builds each student’s anticipation, it engages them in exciting activities that allow them to discover a love for these types of stories.”

In addition, Hoover said literacy night was being held on Leap Day and students will also explore the science of leap year. At 1:30 p.m. that afternoon, the school will transport former students from Harding Middle School to McKinley STEM and open a Leap Year time capsule that was created four years ago. They may also revisit their former classrooms and participate in activities with present McKinley pupils.

(Photo Caption: McKinley STEM Academy students and their families will enjoy literacy night activities based upon the school’s One School, One Book selection, “Hidden Figures,” on Feb. 29 from 4-6. The evening will include constructing and launching straw rockets, visiting a student-constructed planetarium, STEM activities and a fourth-grade wax museum honoring influential people. Pictured are, from left, students Terrence Sinclair, Charlotte Meyer, Kaemir Brown, I'Lynn Wright and Lennon Presley.)

Wells Academy Students Showcase Historic Figures in Wax Museum

Posted 2/9/2024 at 10:29:34 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Third graders at Wells Academy will showcase famous figures during the third-annual African American History Wax Museum on Feb. 15.

Activities will be held in the school gym at 11:30 a.m. with about 60 students donning garb and depicting influential leaders, athletes, entertainers and more. Teachers Alexis Mahoney and Michelle Timmons are organizing the event as a way to share information about those who made a difference and to honor African American History Month.

“The purpose of the African American Wax Museum is to celebrate African American History Month in a way that is immersive for students to have fun while studying the accomplishments of famous African Americans. It's fun, super cute, and exciting. We look forward to it each year.”

Students research influential people and dress as that character while also providing information about them, and a few of this year’s featured figures are U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, abolitionist and social activist Harriet Tubman, former First Lady Michelle Obama and baseball player Jackie Robinson. Students from other grades travel around the gym to learn about the historic people while interesting details will be displayed on tri-fold boards. Mahoney and Timmons created the wax museum as a unique way for their students to complete their research projects and said the previous events have been successful.

“It's our third year and it's going to be bigger and better than ever,” Mahoney said. “Last year, the Wells Academy students and staff attended, as well as the school board and Superintendent Melinda Young.”

Penny War Declared at East Garfield

Posted 1/13/2024 at 10:09:18 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

East Garfield Elementary in Steubenville has declared war—a penny war, that is—to raise funds for school activities. From Jan. 3 to Feb. 2, students in grades PreK-4 are bringing pennies and dollar bills to fill their classroom coin jugs. The pennies and dollars add points to the jugs, but other classes can sabotage jugs with silver coins to subtract points. The class with the most points earns a pizza party with the winner being announced on Feb. 9, and all of the funds will go to the East PTO for literacy night, field trips, end-of-year megaparty and related events. Community members can also take part by bringing pennies to the school. For more information, contact the office at (740) 282-5112. Pictured promoting the event are fourth-grader Madison McCoy and third-grader Oliver Andrews.

SHS Begins Robotics Team

Posted 1/12/2024 at 10:04:12 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Tech-savvy students at Steubenville High School are putting their skills to use with the formation of a new robotics team.

The Ohio Valley Robotics Team, or O.V.R.T., has formed at the high school and hopes to be among the competitors at the Buckeye Regionals at Cleveland State University this spring. It is the brainchild of junior Moira Roderique, the team captain, who said it was an opportunity for her peers to assemble original creations and enter area contests.

“I learned there were no robotics teams around the Steubenville area and I had such joy partaking in the events while I was at my prior school, so I wanted to continue it here,” she said. “I started with mentioning it to people I knew to see if the idea was plausible. I put posters up downtown at first, but there was little engagement. I thought it would be smart to start at the school because I knew there had to be at least a few kids interested.”

She approached Assistant Principal Aaron Newman about the prospect and planned to hold a meeting. Officials began making announcements while Roderique’s friend created posters to publicize the venture throughout the school. Students registered and a session was held to qualify members underneath the FIRST Robotics Competition team requirements. For now, 15 pupils are involved but she hopes to expand that number.

“I started the program because I loved the community that was involved with it. The FIRST Robotics Competition is extremely supportive, which makes it enjoyable to be a part of. I also learned so many life skills such as public speaking, outreach, critical thinking and problem solving and I want more kids to have the chance to experience it.”

She participated for two years at her previous high school in Florida and the build session began on Jan. 6. The team has three months to construct a robot for the competition in late March. SHS teacher Ron Salvino serves as advisor while mother Monica Roderique is lead mentor with Kirsten Duggen currently a co-mentor. Meanwhile, she said the team is also open to students outside of Big Red.

“The team is technically a community team. I am hoping to get kids from around the area to also partake, including homeschoolers.”

Roderique, the daughter of Joseph and Monica Roderique of Steubenville, said her interest in technology has spurred her to consider a future career in the field.

“ I was originally wanting to study psychology and look into the career in therapy. After joining FIRST, I am now looking at careers in engineering science. “

Meanwhile, O.V.R.T. meets every Tuesday and Friday at 2:30 p.m. in the Big Red drafting room but members can gather each day afterschool since the build season has begun.

“I do not expect kids to come every day,” she said. “I would love to have new kids check out the team, as well as adults interested in being a mentor and helping out.”

Donations are also being sought for admission to the competition. So far, the team has raised $6,000 and has a goal of $10,000. For more information about participating as a team member, mentor or volunteer or to donate, email [email protected]. A link for donations is also available for contributions at https://hcb.hackclub.com/donations/start/ohio-valley-robotics-team.

(Photo Caption: The Ohio Valley Robotics Team (O.V.R.T.) was formed by junior Moira Roderique at Steubenville High School but is open to community students. The group hopes to be among the competitors at the Buckeye Regionals at Cleveland State University this spring and is taking donations to meet the last of its $10,000 goal. For more information about participating as a team member, mentor or volunteer or to donate, email [email protected]. A link for donations is also available for contributions at https://hcb.hackclub.com/donations/start/ohio-valley-robotics-team.)

The Spirit of Giving

Posted 12/28/2023 at 12:31:37 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

The Steubenville High School Key Club continued its spirit of giving with a canned food drive to benefit the Salvation Army of Steubenville. The student organization has conducted the event for more than 30 years and those who donated received bonus points from teachers as incentives. The club gathered 2,900 items at the conclusion to ensure needy residents’ pantries were filled for the holidays and beyond. Pictured are, from left, are representatives Jacob Burchfield, Sena Smith and Natalie Romanyak.

Preschoolers Visit the Library

Posted 10/18/2023 at 11:42:52 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

Wells Academy preschoolers visited the main building at the Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County as part of their Success For All curriculum, “Faces and Places in the Community.” While there, they toured the library, listened to a story called “The Runaway Pumpkin,” learned how to obtain a library card, explored the children’s room and met guinea pigs, plus they enjoyed puzzles, puppets and books.

Hoover Gains National PLTW Launch Teacher of the Year Award

Posted 10/17/2023 at 11:41:22 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville City School educator Heather Hoover has been recognized with the 2023-2024 National Project Lead the Way Launch Teacher of the Year Award.

Hoover, who serves as a Success For All (SFA) facilitator and is based at McKinley STEM Academy, was among nominees from across the country. The award recognizes educators who demonstrate a strong record of delivering an inspiring and empowering student experience, expanding access to Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs and transforming teaching.

“As part of Ms. Hoover’s Project Lead The Way Launch instruction, students at McKinley STEM Academy utilize the Activity, Project and Problem Based (APB) Learning model. [The] students examine past inventions and the works of previous innovators and explore their own thoughts and ideas on how they may be able to improve such inventions for the 21st Century and beyond,” the official press release stated. “Students are continuously engaged with peers, mentors and community leaders in collaborative settings which promotes opportunity for inquiry and multi-step learning experiences that inspire new thinking and behaviors towards social and global issues.”

Hoover, who has taught for the past 14 years, oversees the reading and math curriculum and operates the greenhouse at the school. Additionally, she serves as district coordinator of the Odyssey of the Mind program and is an advisor of the district’s 4-H program. Hoover is professionally certified in elementary education for grades PreK-5 and holds endorsements in both reading and gifted education for grades K-12.

“I learned in late May that I had been nominated for this recognition and that they were reviewing my portfolio. It was in September that Director David Dimmett contacted me to let me know that I had been selected for this award,” she said. “After receiving their initial nominations, they begin the process of narrowing their list to the top 30 teachers from across the nation.”

Dimmett and other representatives will visit the school early next year to tour the facilities and recognize the school’s efforts for implementing PLTW programs. Additionally, Hoover has been invited to attend the national conference next October and will be recognized as the 2023-2024 National Project Lead Launch Teacher.

“I am very honored to have been selected to receive this award and appreciate all of the support that I have received,” she added. “As an educator in Steubenville City Schools, we are always looking for ways to build upon our students' opportunities and the learning experiences. PLTW has allowed us to build a gateway within our district's curriculum as we implement these programs in our elementary buildings, exposing our youngest learners to the engineering design process and the career pathways found within. We currently offer PLTW Gateway to our middle school students and have continued to expand on these programs as we look to the future and our new STEM building at the high school.”

As a PLTW Launch Lead Teacher, Hoover provides district staff with training and professional development and has garnered 100-percent participation among teachers in her school, while McKinley STEM has gained Project Lead the Way Distinguished School Honors in 2021, 2022 and 2023 under her direction. In addition, Harding Middle School was recognized in 2022 and 2023 while Wells Academy, East Garfield and Pugliese West Elementary Schools earned similar distinctions this past year.

Dr. Shana Wydra, district STEM and career technical education director, praised Hoover’s achievement and said she has been a major contributor to the students’ success.

“Ms. Hoover is dedicated to infusing STEM into all aspects of daily core instruction. She provides co-teaching opportunities for all staff to provide 90 minutes each day in the Project Lead The Way Launch Lab,” Dr. Wydra commented. “Ms. Hoover is dedicated and loyal to her students and colleagues. She never settles for status quo but rather seeks ways to improve the learning experience for students and the work experience for those on her team.”

District Superintendent Melinda Young said the award was a testament to Hoover’s efforts to create the best opportunities for student learning.

“The award is well deserved,” said Young. “She does everything that is asked of her and more and is always looking for ways to make education fun and meaningful for students.”

(Photo Caption: Heather Hoover has received a 2023-2024 National Project Lead The Way Launch Teacher of the Year Award recipient for her efforts to provide the best opportunities for student learning success in Steubenville City Schools.)

Harding Students Learn of Social Media Pitfalls

Posted 9/11/2023 at 1:11:04 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Social media has proven to dominate youth’s lives today, but students at Harding Middle School also learned how it has its pitfalls.

Seventh-and eighth-graders gathered in the school gym Thursday to hear award-winning journalist Catherine Bosley discuss “Forever and For All to See: Our Day of Digital Everything,” which addresses the growing importance of reputation and image management in an age where one’s photos, videos and words can be posted and easily seen across the world. The presentation is sponsored by the Jefferson County Juvenile Task Force in a proactive approach to educate kids on vital issues and reduce cases on the court docket.

Bosley, a former television news anchor, now travels the country to share cautionary tales of global online humiliation and educate students about the dangers of posting on the internet. She said there were ways to handle haters, such as ignoring mean comments, blocking bullies from their social media and reminding yourself that hateful comments come from people who do not feel good about themselves. Youth should also remember the “F Factor” of faith, family and friends.

“We are all going to have those ‘what was I thinking’ moments, but if there’s one thing I want you to remember it’s that pictures can be part of [the internet] forever.”

Bosley said college admissions officials and potential employers can also view posts, which could impact the students’ chances of attending their dream school or getting a job. She also warned them about trusting others who seek inappropriate photos or who may share their information.

“It could be a text or shared post or email, and it’s getting shared all over the place. The idea is to make sure you shine your light on for the rest of your lives. We need to protect our online reputation,” she continued. “Listen to that voice in your head because it’s literally a life-saving voice.”

She encouraged youth to promote positivity with healthy selfies and words and to not bully or shame others. Privacy is also a myth in the internet era and there are images people can and cannot control. Bosley shared stories of teens driven to suicide by cyberbullying or sexting situations, adding that 62 percent of tweens and teens are online bullying victims while 25 percent are bullies. Sexting is also illegal when someone under age 18 takes, has and/or sends images, even if they are of themselves. That could result in jail or time in juvenile detention if convicted, while adult websites can access and post photos and videos and even track unidentified images back to the original poster.

“Everything you put out there is not only representative of you, it’s representative of your family and it’s representative of your school,” she said. “Ohio students are being targeted [for sexting]. There are creepy people overseas saying they are kids and gaining your trust. They will try to talk you into sharing inappropriate pictures, and you think you are talking to another kid but they are creepy adults.”

Another tactic known as sextortion is when people threaten to post photos unless they receive money. Bosley stressed the importance of telling someone and the county task force was there to protect them. She concluded by sharing her P.A.C.T. strategy for rising above: People (tell someone), Abandon (social media and negative people), Connect and This too shall pass.

“You are stronger and smarter and more equipped to help other people. The more vigilant we are and listen to the little voice, the less we can jeopardize our hopes and dreams,” she said.

County Juvenile Court Administrator Joe Colabella said the task force includes the juvenile court, county sheriff’s office, prosecutor’s office, law enforcement, health department, Prevention and Recovery Board, Family Recovery Center, Ohio BCI, Ohio State Highway Patrol, ALIVE Shelter and A Caring Place Advocacy Center. Nine presentations were being held at county schools with more set for parents, plus there are plans address different topics in the future.

“Our task force was just formed this year,” Colabella said. “We’re going to pick a social issue every year so kids don’t turn up on the formal docket of the juvenile court. The juvenile court was fortunate to receive a grant from the Ohio Department of Youth Services for community education on social issues.”

County Juvenile Court Judge Frank Noble Jr. said there was a great need to educate the youth.

“We saw there were issues in court with sexting, and in the next couple of years we will address suicide, bullying, vaping and some other issues that we’re seeing. We have seen an uptick in internet activity and we want to try to be a little more preventative,” Judge Noble added. “The task force is extremely appreciative of the local superintendents and building principals for their cooperation in an effort to educate the juveniles of Jefferson County.”

Harding Principal Bryan Mills said the assembly had an important lesson to learn.

“We’re always trying to deliver a message of internet safety and awareness, and to have the Jefferson County Task Force and Catherine Bosley come in was very important. I’m always looking for outside resources to come and drive these efforts and I appreciate their message to the kids.”

Bosley has also appeared at Buckeye Local Jr./Sr. High School and Edison Jr./Sr. High School with more dates set for Jefferson County Joint Vocational School this Tuesday, Toronto on Wednesday, Steubenville High School on Sept. 19, Catholic Central High School on Sept. 20, Indian Creek Middle School on Sept. 28 and Indian Creek High School on Oct. 11.

(Photo Caption: Award-winning journalist Catherine Bosley speaks to students at Harding Middle School as part of a new initiative from the Jefferson County Juvenile Task Force to educate youth and prevent further cases on the docket. Bosley described social media dangers, telling youth to be vigilant to protect themselves and only promote positivity online. More sessions are set for county schools through mid-October with others targeting parents and guardians in the future.)

Reeves to Lead McKinley STEM Academy

Posted 8/17/2023 at 1:07:16 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Longtime Harding Middle School Assistant Principal Donnie Reeves is taking on a new role as the newly minted leader at McKinley STEM Academy.

Reeves, who served at Harding for the past six years, is thrilled with the opportunity to oversee 180 students in grades PreK-4. He officially began on July 31 but spent much of the summer slowly transitioning into the post.

“This will be my 24^th year with the district,” said the Steubenville native. “It’s my first year as an elementary principal, and I felt it was the right time to take the next step in my profession.”

He graduated from Steubenville High School in 1995 and earned a degree in education for grades K-8 from Davis and Elkins University in 2000. Reeves began teaching social studies at Harding and remained there for 17 years before being promoted to assistant principal, plus he coached football, basketball and varsity softball during the mid-2000s. He and wife Jackie, who serves as the district director of gifted education, also share two children, Jack and Trudie.

“I stepped out of the classroom and assumed a leadership role,” he said. “I actually taught one year at Pugliese West and I think I’ll enjoy [being in the setting again]. It’s great being with the young kids and one of my qualities as an assistant principal was to be on their level. I think kids relate a lot better on this level.”

Reeves is still becoming acclimated with McKinley but hopes to work with teachers to continue the school’s momentum with educational success.

“There is an importance to working as a team with distributive leadership and the teachers are the ones the kids interact with,” he added. “I’m excited and nervous at the same time, but I think once we get the ball rolling it will be a smooth transition. I’m looking forward to seeing all of the little faces.”

(Photo Caption: Donnie Reeves is taking on a new role as principal at McKinley STEM Academy and will oversee 180 students in grades PreK-4. He had served as assistant principal at Harding Middle School for the past six years and has spent nearly a quarter-century with Steubenville City Schools.)

Steubenville Welcoming Students Back to Class

Posted 8/14/2023 at 10:19:52 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville City Schools will welcome students back to class during a series of events that start this week.

Steubenville High School will host a freshman and new student orientation this Tuesday with a Back to School Bash for upperclassmen on Wednesday. The orientation is mandatory and parents and freshmen should be in attendance. Doors open at 5 p.m. at the commons with activities set for 6 p.m. in the auditorium, and attendants are to pick up papers and provide $20 to cover student homeroom fees. Forms are available both online and at the school, and once the completed paperwork is submitted, students will receive their schedules. Following the presentation, everyone may tour the building while the Red Zone School Store will also be open to purchase Big Red merchandise.

“Students can get their schedules, and tour the building and we will go over general procedures for the 2023-24 school year,” said Principal Ted Gorman, noting that about 173 freshmen have enrolled for the term. “Freshmen orientation also gives students the opportunity to join clubs in the building and we will have tables and current students recruiting for organizations. I also believe the orientation is important to make incoming freshmen feel comfortable before school.”

Sophomores through seniors are invited to the Back to School Bash on Wednesday with 10^th graders to arrive at noon, 11^th graders at 1 p.m. and 12^th graders at 2 p.m. in the school commons.

“We get a pretty high percentage of students who come and many of them come because they want to see friends they haven’t seen all summer and they want to get their schedules,” Gorman added.

He said many of the same activities as the freshman orientation can be expected at the event. Students will receive their class schedules and fill out required forms. If the forms are incomplete, a parent or guardian must attend to sign the paperwork. The students should also bring $20 to cover homeroom fees while the Red Zone will also be accessible.

“We look forward to seeing our new students as they enter the building. It’s always wonderful to see them and their families,” Gorman said. For questions or more information, call (740) 282-9741.

Meanwhile, Harding Middle School Orientation 2023 will be held Wednesday for fifth-graders at 9 a.m. and seventh-graders at 1 p.m. and Thursday for sixth-graders at 9 a.m. and eighth-graders at 1 p.m. Principal Bryan Mills said parents and guardians must also attend and plans are to complete forms, pay $10 student fees, register for bussing and receive their schedules.

“The fifth-grade will get a tour of the building and have a conversation with the principal,” Mills commented, adding that the remaining classes can collect their schedules.

Parents of multiple students may choose a time to serve all of their children at once and those who cannot attend may visit the school office from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

In addition, open houses will be held at East Garfield, Pugliese West and McKinley STEM Academy on Aug. 22 from 1-2 p.m. to familiarize students with classrooms, teachers and school personnel while the first day of school in the district is Aug. 23.

Steubenville Highlights Scholars

Posted 5/31/2023 at 4:32:40 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville High School highlighted the top of the class with the annual University Scholars Breakfast.

Parents joined educators and administrators as 46 seniors were recognized for their achievements in the school commons and the students led the festivities.

Seniors Francis Desany welcomed the crowd and Parker Kelley introduced special guests while Sophia Riley recognized favorite teachers. Among the honored educators were John Abram, John Arlesic, Justin Banks, Julie Battistel, Shannon Bednar, Joe Biasi, Mike Blackburn, Edith Boyde, Jessie Clark, Kelley Crosby, Gus DiMarzio, Tom Hicks, Ross Ivkovich, Eliza Kelley, Anthony Kinyo, Scott Lane, Diana Mankowski, Aaron Newman, Brian Peckens, Jeff Petrelle, Sam Pittera, Cheryl Rubish, Ron Salvino, Joseph Smarrella, Scott Wolodkin and Tracy Ziarko.

Students Camden Daley led invocation prior to the breakfast and Alexandria Miller introduced parent Mike Gray, who offered some inspirational words as the students embarked on their future paths.

Gray, the proud dad of upcoming alumni Maeve and Mason Gray, said he was equally delighted to watch the students as they excelled in the classroom, in sports, band and as they earned their associate’s degrees while still attending high school.

“I hope, when you played a game or performed before a crowd of people, you took advantage of the opportunity to look up in the crowd, now matter how large or small, and appreciated the people in attendance,” Gray added. “Many were your friends and family, of course, but many were people that haven’t had a child in school for 20 or 30 years.

“Scholars, your family and teachers seated with you will assure you, life is going to send hard times your way. Things happen that you cannot anticipate, and it is then that the lessons you have learned in the past 12-plus years will give you the resolve to succeed when things get tough. Keep that school spirit alive in your heart, it will serve you well in difficult times.”

Senior Vasile Matzorkis also provided some encouraging remarks to his peers. Matzorkis said the event symbolized how far they have come during their high school careers, how they perservered past the COVID pandemic and have been prepared for the next chapter.

“The last four years at SHS have prepared us for the next four years, and the rest of our lives,” he said. “We all have goals and ambitions and I will say this: Don’t shoot for the stars, shoot beyond them. I know everyone that everyone in this class has the capability and the will do do amazing things and I cannot wait to see where life takes us.”

Student Sydney Matyas thanked everyone for their support and guidance, after which class Valedictorian Frank Vostatek and Salutatorian Kellen Marshall introduced the 42 university scholars. The list included Vostatek and Marshall as well as Camden Daley, Francis Desany, Parker Kelley, Sydney Matyas, William (Vasile) Matzorkis, Alexandria Miller, Tori Mitchell, Sophia Riley, Todd Blackburn, Brionna Bonar, Celia Crosby, John Dettorre, Dylan Fink, Morgan Grant, Maeve Gray, Mason Gray, Gionna Gulan, Kiyana Hayden, Nadia Hawthorne, Raegan Hayes, Ky Jhaun Hopkins, Bryce Huff, Sydnee Kirkpatrick, Antonio Lulla, Mea Lulla, Joseph Macre, Zoe Martin, Briana Masloski, Melia Newburn, Shayann Oxley, Olivia Price, Hillary Rauch, Jaleyss Sclaes, Jessica Scott, Adelaide Shaw, Kayliyah Simmons, Charles Smith IV, Isabella Smith, Zachary Smith, Mason Stoll, Landyn Swickard, Sabrina Underwood, Dakota White and Drake Ziarko.

Finally, senior Tori Mitchell offered the closing and Director of Gifted Education Jackie Reeves reminded the scholars they made their school proud.

(Photo Cutline: More than 40 seniors were lauded during the University Scholars Breakfast at Steubenville High School on Tuesday, where they were joined by educators and loved ones to mark their accomplishments during their academic career. Class Salutatorian Kellen Marshall and Valedictorian Frank Vostatek are pictured, from left, at the podium introducing the scholars during the event.)

Freshman Success Academy Yields Results

Posted 4/2/2023 at 11:46:02 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville High School’s implementation of the Freshman Success Academy has made a significant difference when it comes to helping students transitioning from middle school to high school.

The program, which is now in its second year, is already being described by school leaders as “transformational.” From the ability to apply early intervention, academic, disciplinary and social-emotional issues to the creation of strategic teacher teams and dramatic drops in student-failure rates, the FSA is already showing tangible evidence of the myriad benefits it provides students. In the first year of the program’s implementation, the number of freshman failing a core subject area decreased from 11 percent to approximately 1 percent.

FSA was started during the 2021-22 school year by SHS Assistant Principal and Dean of Students Aaron Newman and School Counselor and Dean of Students Adele Filtz, who based the program on similar concepts at another school district where both were previously employed. Newman and Filtz believed the program would be the perfect fit at Steubenville High School.

A key feature of the FSA is the “Core 4,” which is the ninth-grade, core-subject teacher team responsible for instructing the majority of freshman students. The Core 4 consists of teachers Jessie Clark, Greg Bowers, Joe Smarrella and Lauren Linn, respectively in the realm of science, math, social studies and English/Literature Arts. This team, along with Newman, Filtz and other high school educators, meet biweekly to identify students of concern while also crafting personalized intervention plans. The primary goal is to find ways to help the students succeed in and out of the classroom.

“It’s often said that it takes a village,” said Filtz. “With our focus on teamwork and collaboration, we create a family atmosphere within the freshman class, serving essentially as a small learning community at the high school.”

“Numerous studies have established that students who are credit-deficient at the end of ninth-grade are at a higher risk to drop out of high school,” Newman interjected. “This is a multi-pronged effort that provides early intervention combined with immediate supports, whether they be academic, social-emotional, disciplinary, truancy and attendance. We want to create optimal conditions for teaching and learning for our ninth-graders. The importance of freshman year can’t be understated in the grand scheme of things. We empathize the fact that everything counts when you reach the high-school level.”

Filtz continued that 85 percent of the schools’ roughly 190 freshmen take classes from the same four core teachers, while she and Newman also meet with the students and their parents to address the situation. That, combined with work by SHS Assistant Principal and Truancy Liaison Bobby Lamantia, has proven to be an effective tool to improve the students’ education

“Part of why we’re so successful is because we have systems in place and Mr. Lamantia has a really organized, systematic approach to truancy,” said Newman. “With students of concern, they may have a variety of needs. The key to FSA’s success is getting supports in place quickly so we can get them turned around.”

They further explained that GPA, attendance and involvement in extracurriculars have become crucially important with colleges, placing less emphasis on ACT and SAT scores. The freshman year takes on greater importance as students work to build a quality resume and cumulative GPA.

A common thread with student issues is responsible decision-making, whether it be with academics, family life and relationships or social media. Newman said the real focus should be placed on the real world so students can make responsible decisions and stay on track in school and in life. They added that leaders can also celebrate students’ successes through Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and recommend them for Student of the Month honors.

“It matters. At the end of the day, that’s what separates this building from others. Culture matters. We’re all about culture,” Newman said. “We implement best practices that produce positive outcomes for kids and mitigate the negatives.”

“We strive to be innovative with everything we do and we’re already seeing results,” Filtz concluded. “We hope to continue with that success this year. We’re trying to train students to be good citizens and mold them to make forward-thinking choices that maximize their potential.”

NIKE Club Sets Third Blood Drive

Posted 4/1/2023 at 11:43:34 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-The Steubenville High School NIKE Club is setting its third blood drive on April 19 and members are seeking support from the school and community.

The organization is once again joining forces with the American Red Cross for the event, which will be held in the new gym from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Nike Club members will register donors and provide refreshments at the canteen under the supervision of American Sign Language teacher Jessica Chesslar while Red Cross medical staff will handle the collection.

Donors must be at least 16 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and be healthy to participate. Anyone who turns 16 years old on or before that date is eligible to contribute and may register and select a donation time; however, walk-ins are also accepted. Those who are an eligible type O, B or A- may consider making a Power Red donation since red blood cells are most commonly used for blood transfusions. The collection enables the Red Cross to replenish its supply and is used within the greater Allegheny area.

Advisor Katrina Morrow said it was the first time the group was conducting a third event under her tenure. The organization has sponsored a biannual event each fall and spring, with the latter held in February for the past two years.

“So far, the previous two blood drives collected 57 units, which is the highest total unit collection in my eight years as coordinator,” she said.

Morrow added that it not only helps save lives but also earns one $250 American Red Cross scholarship for a graduating SHS senior. The upcoming campaign would aid others in need of medical care and also benefit another soon-to-be-alum.

“We are hosting a third blood drive to hopefully get enough units so that we are able to give a second scholarship to a graduating senior that has donated blood this school year,” she continued.

The NIKE Club is an all-female organization which includes 40 members in grades 9-12. Named for the Greek goddess, its purpose is to build connections with each other as well as the Ohio Valley Business and Professional Women’s organization. The student group volunteers for community service including concession stands during school games, events at SHS and other Steubenville City Schools and in the community. Half of the concession stand proceeds also help fund two scholarships each year while the members’ volunteer hours go toward academic letters and senior Capstone community service projects. This will be the final NIKE Club event, but an end-of-year dinner

is eyed in the coming weeks to bid farewell to graduating members and swear in new officers for the 2023-24 school year.

For more information or to register for the blood drive, contact 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or go to https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=BigRed.

Kinder Country Day at Pugliese West

Posted 3/22/2023 at 3:31:14 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Pugliese West is getting down on the farm as students celebrate Kinder Country Day this Thursday.

Kindergarten pupils will have the opportunity to show and educate other students at school about farmlife and animals. STEM and project-based learning activities will be held with some animals provided by Life’s A Boer Farm of Flushing. It is the first year for the event and kindergarten teacher Rachael Andes, who is the organizer, said about 250 kids will be participating in grades PreK-1.

“At Kinder Country Days, there will be several activities for the students to participate in. There will be “Milking the Cow” STEM activity, “Herding Sheep” gross motor activity, soil, hay and corn exploration, line dancing, a farm diorama showcase and a farm animal petting zoo,” Andes said. “We are so excited and proud to show off our baby chicks! Our kindergarten students have learned all about chicks and chickens and have hatched their very own.”

Andes added that she hoped to see Kinder Country Day become an annual event and it was a fun and educational activity.

“ We decided to make our project-based learning on farm animals because it aligned with our Success For All curriculum unit and our students are passionate about animals.”

She was grateful for the support of many people who helped plan the activity, including fellow kindergarten teachers Amy Crowe, Tracie Swinsinski and Christine Elson as well as Pugliese parents.

“I cannot thank my team enough for the planning collaboration and implementation to make this event possible,” she said. “Thank you to our parents for all their continuous support and dedication, and a huge thank you to Life’s A Boer Farm for visiting us earlier this month and for coming to our event and educating our students on farm animals, specifically boer goats and chickens. A huge thank you also to our principal, Lynnett Gorman, facilitators Krystal Yourkovich and Jennifer Blackburn and the staff for their support in making this event possible.”

Future Freshmen Attend Transition Days

Posted 3/11/2023 at 9:40:06 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Eighth-graders at Harding Middle School got a glimpse of their future as they toured Steubenville High School this past week.

Big Red opened its doors during the annual HMS to SHS Transition Days on March 7-9, where an estimated 180 middle school students spent time touring the facility and learning about educational and extracurricular opportunities as they enter their freshmen year. The students first attended a brief presentation where they were welcomed and given an overview of offerings, then each one was paired with a high school student ambassador to shadow for the next four hours. They also had lunch in the school commons before returning to Harding.

School Counselor and Dean of Students Adele Filtz said the pairing enabled the youth to interact with the upperclassmen and become more acclimated to their new surroundings.

“We had about 100 student ambassadors,” Filtz said, adding that they were nominated by teachers to participate each day. “We want [the eighth-graders] to meet new people and become familiar with the school, and they also get to meet the staff.”

Participating middle school students and SHS ambassadors agreed that it gave them a chance to become well acquainted with each other and the setting.

Eighth-grader Kalijah Petteway said he was interested in soccer and learned about sports and classes from student ambassador Jalen Minniefield.

“I’m telling everyone stuff about Big Red, how experienced the teachers are and what they will learn,” added Minniefield.

Samuel Whittington said he was mostly excited about wanting to join the football team when he attends Big Red this fall, while he shadowed student ambassador Sabron Felton and visited areas throughout the school.

“I think I’m most excited about the classes and just coming to high school,” noted eighth-grader Mason Rettinger, who was paired with student ambassador Lawrence Daniels.

“I showed him around the classes and he met with the teachers,” Daniels commented.

Eighth-grader Aubrey Slussar joined upperclassman Natalie Romanyak and enjoyed getting a first-hand look at the educational environment.

“I’m excited to see the classes and to see what I’m going to do next year,” Slussar said.

Student ambassador Summer Murdock teamed up with Sa’Niyah Newton and showed her classrooms, the pool and other facilities.

“There are different activities and opportunities for us to participate in,” said Newton.

Principal Ted Gorman said it was a positive experience for everyone.

"We had a wonderful three days getting to meet our future students,” Gorman added. “The eighth-grade students really enjoy ‘bumping up’ to the next grade, seeing who their teachers may be and participating in some high school activities. Our high school ambassadors did a great job of showing the students around the school."

About 75 eighth-graders in the College Credit Plus program are also expected to return each day in May for Maymester while the entire class will attend orientation in August prior to the new school term.

(Photo Caption: Steubenville High School student ambassador Summer Murdock leads Harding Middle School eighth-grader Sa’Niyah Newton on a tour during HMS to SHS Transition Days. About 180 middle schoolers visited on March 7-9 and learned about educational and extracurricular offerings available when they become freshmen this fall.)

East Garfield Going on ChickQuest

Posted 3/10/2023 at 9:38:48 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-East Garfield Elementary students are getting hands-on knowledge about hatchlings through the ChickQuest program.

Preschool, kindergarten and third-grade classes are participating in the program through The Ohio State University. ChickQuest is an elementary science program that includes a series of standards-based supporting activities and delivers science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) content in the context of positive youth development. Preschool intervention specialist Jamie Thompson, said she learned about the program last spring and joined three other teachers for a training session in Columbus in August. Free equipment and a dozen eggs have been provided for the school and an incubator is currently housed in her classroom.

“The process takes 21 days and we have to keep the incubator at the correct temperature and humidity. Once the eggs start to hatch, we will keep them in a brooder box with a heat lamp,” Thompson said. “This is the first time we’ve done it. It comes with a logbook and we’re going to team up with the third-graders.”

She added that the classes will collaborate and complete assignments in science, social studies, math and reading. Thompson said the students were excited about watching the life cycle up close.

“This ties in literature and we will research animals that lay eggs,” she explained. “The third-grade will team up with our preschoolers for the research project.”

Thompson said the students were excited about their new endeavor.

“I’m happy,” added preschooler Symphany Robinson. “[I can’t wait to see] the chicks.”

Thompson said the hatchlings will eventually find a new home in a chicken coop owned by one of the teachers.

(Photo Caption: East Garfield Elementary preschoolers, pictured from left, Caellum Lantier, Axel Van Dyke, A’rayah Dent, Shavari Benson and Symphany Robinson view newly arrived eggs which will be kept in an incubator as part of the ChickQuest program through The Ohio State University. Preschool, kindergarten and third-grade classes will get a bird’s-eye view of the life cycle in action and team up for related learning activities.)

Eighth-Graders Getting Preview of High School Life

Posted 3/8/2023 at 10:12:18 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Eighth-graders advancing to Steubenville Big Red this fall will get a little preview of high school life during HMS to SHS Transition Days.

Principal Ted Gorman said about 180 students from Harding Middle School will descend upon Big Red on March 7-9 to become familiar with their new surroundings. The students will visit classrooms and also learn about extracurricular activities such as athletics and organizations so they can become involved as full-fledged freshmen.

“We will bus eighth-graders from Harding and they will spend half a day at the high school getting acclimated to teachers, classrooms and classmates,” Gorman said. “They will shadow student ambassadors and eat lunch and the administration will have a brief presentation at the beginning. We’re trying to make it a smooth transition because the two hardest times for transition are in fifth and ninth grade.”

He added that it was akin to Harding’s Making Memories in the Middle event on March 10 that will introduce fourth-grade elementary students to the middle school environment, although that activity will include offerings for students and parents in an evening event from 6-8 p.m.

Meanwhile, about 75 College Credit Plus students will make a stop in May in an event that has been held for about four years. Gorman said it was another way to familiarize the students with the high school setting.

“We’re trying to make them as comfortable as possible when they get here,” he commented. “We try to get them to know the students. That’s important also.”

Literacy Night at McKinley STEM Academy

Posted 3/8/2023 at 10:08:20 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-McKinley STEM Academy is thinking spring with its upcoming literacy night festivities.

The school will host activities on March 16 from 4-6 p.m. and feature its “One School, One Book” project with a Black History Month edition of “Secret Garden.” Principal Deanna Beall said games and more are set for students and parents to enjoy and prior literacy night events have been a successful draw.

“We will have food trucks, a spring garden party with activities in the greenhouse, arts, crafts and games,” Beall said.

In case of inclement weather, activities will be moved to the school gym. Beall added that about 300 people attended a fall literacy night and she was hopeful for a similar turnout.

“This is the fourth year that the school has been open and we had two literacy nights last year,” she said. “This year, we were able to do more. We’re gearing it towards the ‘One School, One Book’ program and all of our kids have the same book. It’s a great book for the upper grade levels but a good experience for the younger ones to be exposed to.”

Beall added that younger students can read with adults at home and all 180 pupils have taken part in daily activities with comprehension questions for prizes, plus they complete STEM challenges as part of the educational experience.

Harding to Host Making Memories in the Middle

Posted 2/21/2023 at 2:11:06 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

STEUBENVILLE-Harding Middle School will give incoming students a glimpse of upperclassman life when it hosts Making Memories in the Middle on March 10.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with activities to run from 6-8 p.m. and all fourth-graders and their families within Steubenville City Schools are invited, as well as any student living outside the district who may be interested in enrolling. Shay Greiner, school social worker, said the event is now in its 10^th year and those planning to attend can enjoy an evening of fun while touring the building and exploring programs.

“We provide new activities each year,” said Greiner. “This year, we have a few new rooms and activities to offer.”

Among them are a rollercoaster display, Fine Arts tables and information, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) station with information on #StallionWay, pie-in-the-face game with student-athletes, School Bases Health Clinic table, fourth-grade puzzle mural, Bingo, photo booth/wall, Stallion quilt activity, HMHS Helps Me Grow, March Madness activity, school nurse educational table, locker escape room, eighth-grade Q&A session and giveaways such as HMS gift bags and magnets.

“This event was started to help alleviate some of the early anxieties our fourth-grade students have making the jump to a new building. It is only natural after spending six or seven years in one building that there be some anxiety when jumping to a new one,” she said. “With this experience, students gain the opportunity to explore the building and some of our programs, meet staff they will see or have as teachers in the coming year and mingle with older students. In addition, this event provides a platform for our elementary students to mingle with each other.”

Harding accepts fourth-grade students from Pugliese West Elementary, East Garfield Elementary, Wells Academy and McKinley STEM Academy and the event helps pupils who have not had many opportunities to get to know each other, particularly since they attend separate schools until fifth-grade. About 220 fourth-graders and their families have been invited to the upcoming festivities.

Greiner said school staff, students and leaders are involved in Making Memories in the Middle and help keep it going strong.

“It takes a team effort to organize this event. Making Memories in the Middle would not be a success without the staff who volunteer their time and Solutions teams and even our own students help plan and decorate for the occasion.”

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