Finish what you start The finish line for the semester is quickly approaching. It is quite amazing to reflect on how fast the second quarter came to closure. Next Friday marks the midpoint of the year...how have you used the time that you were given? We had such a strong start to the year across each grade level! Take the proper time that you need to talk to your children about where they are socially, emotionally, and academically. This time of year is experienced differently by all students and families. As much as academic achievement is important--so is the well-being of all of our children. Our students know that they have excellent educators that care for their every need, but the extension of school is secondary to the root of the needs that children need at home. As much as we ask our children to be present at school while at school...it is just as important for each of us as parents to be present while our children are present. The one variable that we cannot change is time. Take the time this weekend to be present to all of the variables of your children and remind them how much you support and love them. In this Week in Reflection, you will read about the many important schedules and events that lead up to our break. Holiday Concert On Thursday, the spirit of the season filled the hearts of our Chardon community at the Mentor Fine Arts Center. This concert was such a transformative evening for our students. Special thanks to our teachers: Fritz Streiff and Melissa Lichtler for conducting such a beautiful night. We have such talented students! Chardon High School Holiday Concert ~ December 12, 2019 Fritz Streiff, Choral Director; Melissa Lichtler, Band Director; Cassie Tarbet, Accompanist PRE-CONCERT MUSIC ~ PERCUSSION ENSEMBLES ~ God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen & Frosty the Snowman - Symphonic Band Percussion Here Drums Santa Claus & All Jingled Up - Wind Ensemble Percussion FREE HARMONY Sleigh Ride ~ Hayes Merry Christmas ~ O'Connell Santa Claus Boogie ~ Shaw Christmas Mem'ries ~ Huff Santa, Bring My Baby Back (To Me) ~ O'Connell We Need a Little Christmas ~ Sterling WOMEN’S CHOIR Patapan Fantasia ~ Snyder In Winter (Still, Still, Still) ~ Johnson SYMPHONIC BAND Rejoice the Season ~ Rob Romeyn Scenes from “The Nutcracker” ~ Tchaikovsky/Story Russian Christmas Music ~ Reed/Curnow Christmas Eve/Sarajevo/12/24 ~ O’Neil/Horton CHORALE Midwinter Song ~ LaBarr God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen ~ James WIND ENSEMBLE Christmas Variants ~ Elliot del Borgo In the Bleak Midwinter ~ Robert W. Smith Minor Alterations ~ David Lovrien CHAMBER The Winter's Night ~ Myers Veni, Veni Emmanuel ~ Trotta MASSED CHOIRS & WIND ENSEMBLE Sleigh Ride ~ Leroy Anderson Carol of the Bells ~ Wilhousky It’s a Wonderful Christmas - Hayes O Holy Night ~ Clausen *Hallelujah Chorus ~ Handel Art of Visual Storytelling--Piece of the Week!Mr. Hauber's-Art of Visual Storytelling class created nearly 500 hand drawn frames in 3 weeks preparation for a 40-second animation! I was able to witness this idea start from the initial thought to the final process. Check out the amazing final product! Schedule for Next Week Chardon High School Schedule : December 16-20, 2019 Monday: December 16, 2019 Mr. Strieff and Ms. Lichtler are excited to bring back the Holiday Concert for all students during a split school assembly. The concert will be performed during two assemblies: one for grades 9-12, and one for grade 8. This will provide the opportunity for all grades to see our students perform and help curtail distractions. December 16 Assembly Music: Jazz Band Angels We Have Rocked the House Holiday Joy Jazz Orchestra Comfort and Joy Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Free Harmony Sleigh Ride Merry Christmas Santa Claus Boogie Christmas Mem'ries Santa, Bring My Baby Back (To Me) We Need a Little Christmas Monday Assembly Schedule December 17th-20th, 2019 Enclosed Schedule (Please see the attached link for further clarity) Midterm Week: The purpose of this week is to meet the educational needs of our students as they prepare for midterms, finals, and project presentations. ALL classes will meet during midterm week. If a class does not have a midterm or a final, they will commence a class period. The only non-mandatory period is a study hall. Students do not need to sit in the study hall. We will provide supervision in the cafeteria for a silent study hall as needed, but attendance is not mandatory. Parents, please see this form. Will will work with the Special Education department to allocate accommodation rooms for the week. Important Notes:
Tuesday: December 17, 2019 8:00-10:00 AM (1st Period) 10:10-12:10 PM (5th Period) Dismissal A la carte lunch available Auburn Juniors return 12:15-2:15 PM (ACC Students-5th Period) Room 1 12:15-2:15 PM Make-up Tests (Periods 1, 5) Room 1 12:45-2:40 PM Teacher Based Teams Wednesday: December 18, 2019 8:00-10:00 AM (2nd Period) 10:10-12:10 PM (6th Period) Dismissal A la carte lunch available Auburn Juniors return 12:15-2:15 PM (ACC Students-6th Period) Room 1 12:15-2:15 PM Make-up Tests (Periods 2, 6) Room 1 12:45-2:40 PM Teacher Based Teams Thursday: December 19, 2019 8:00-10:00 AM (3rd Period) 10:10-12:10 PM (7th Period) Dismissal A la carte lunch available Auburn Juniors return 12:15-2:15 PM (ACC Students-7th Period) Room 1 12:15-2:15 PM Make-up Tests (Periods 3, 7) Room 1 12:45-2:40 PM Teacher Based Teams Friday: December 20, 2019 8:00-10:00 AM (4th Period) 10:10-12:10 PM (Make-ups with Teacher) Dismissal A la carte lunch available Auburn Juniors return 12:15-2:15 PM (ACC Students: Make-ups) Room 1 12:45-2:40 PM Faculty Meeting- Cafeteria Parental Acknowledgement Form  The following article was curated from Educationcorner.com to help our students prepare for midterm week. How to Study Infographic Experiencing test anxiety is natural. In fact, most people – even those who have prepared extensively – experience some level of anxiety before and during tests. While a certain level of test anxiety is beneficial (as it motivates students to adequately prepare), too much can be detrimental if it prevents them from studying, preparing properly, or concentrating during a test. These following strategies can help you control extreme test taking anxiety:
N.a. "Coping with Test Anxiety | Study Skills Guide." Educationcorner.com. n.d. Web. 11 Dec. 2018. <https://www.educationcorner.com/test-anxiety.html> Chardon Schools is Named to AP® Honor Roll Chardon Schools is excited to announce that it is being honored by The College Board with placement on the 10th Annual AP® District Honor Roll. The District is one of only nine districts within the state of Ohio to receive this honor and one of only 250 school districts throughout the U.S. and Canada. “Over the last four years, we’ve expanded our course offerings in AP (Advanced Placement) specifically and in foundational classes and have found great success with our students as they attempt these rigorous courses for college and career readiness,” said Ed Klein, Ph.D., Assistant Superintendent of Chardon Schools. To be included on the 10th Annual AP® Honor Roll, Chardon Schools had to, since 2017, increase the number of students participating in AP courses while also increasing or maintaining the percentage of students earning AP Exam scores of 3 or higher. Reaching these goals shows that this District is successfully identifying motivated, academically prepared students who are ready for AP. “Being included on the AP® District Honor Roll is a testament to the work that the teachers and leaders in our District do,” said Tim Hurlbut, AP Coordinator for Chardon Schools. Helping more students learn at a higher level and earn higher AP scores is an objective of all members of the AP community, from AP teachers to district and school administrators to college professors. “Continued growth in both AP enrollment and outcomes is something that is never achieved in a single year,” said Hurlbut. “Every teacher in our District, from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12, has played a role in preparing students for success in these college-level, AP courses. Without the support of our District leadership, the Chardon United Methodist Church, parents, students, and the community, Chardon Schools would not be in a position to be one of only nine districts within Ohio being recognized with this honor. As the AP Coordinator here at Chardon, I am proud to be a part of this District and program.” Klein noted that grant funding has been used by Chardon Schools in order to provide professional development for its AP teachers on an ongoing basis. “With more students participating and succeeding in AP in this District, more students are getting a head start on college by earning college credit during high school,” said Trevor Packer, senior vice president of AP and Instruction at the College Board. “We are pleased to honor the teachers and administrators who have worked to clear a path for more students of all backgrounds to advance through AP.” The complete 10th Annual AP® District Honor Roll can be found HERE.  M. Jane Christyson Chief Executive Officer, Girl Scouts of North East Ohio Talent ShowLast Friday, countless Toppers headed to the stage at Park Elementary to demonstrate to the school and local community their talents.
Thank you, to Mrs. Monaco for sharing some of these videos. Thank you, to Mr. and Mrs. Gerstner for sharing this video Swimming Update Hilltopper (700 swimmers, 35 teams) Women: 1st overall winners: 200 medley relay (Sarah Bennett, Gracie Duchon, Stella Parrish, Morgan Debevec), Gracie Duchon 100 fly, 100 IM, Sarah Bennett 50 Back, 200 Free Relay ( Morgan Debevec, Marissa Scerbo, Stella Parrish, Campbell Tierney) Men overall 3rd (best ever before was 7th) @ South 12/11-12 First ever diving experience Women 109-59. Winners: Medley Relay (Reese Schneider, Charlotte Bennett, Leoni Nickel, Megan Marting), 200 free: Katie Snyder, 200 IM Sarah Bennett, 50 Free Stella Parrish, 100 Fly Sarah Bennett, 100 Free Stella Parrish, 500 Free Katie Snyder, 200 free Relay Parrish, Bennett, Jena Goodwin, Megan Martin, 100 back Reese Schneider, 400 free Relay (Parrish, Bennett, Snyder, Nickel) Men 102-62 (won every event) 200 medley (Levi Rogers, Jackson Perry, Austin Dumm, Mason Kooyman), 200 free Austin Dumm, 200 IM Nate Bender, 50 Free Mason Kooyman, Diving Max Klueder, 100 Fly Levi Rogers, 100 Free Mason Kooyman, 500 Free Nate Bender, 200 free relay (Dumm, Jacob Schneider, Levi Rogers, Nate Bender), 100 Back Levi Rogers, 100 Breast Jackson Perry, 400 Free Relay (Mason Kooyman, Austin Dumm, Aj Rogers, Nate Bender)  Need a Christmas present for your son/daughter? Give the gift of snow before it’s too late and allow your son/daughter the opportunity to join the CHS Ski/Snowboard Club! Does your child already like to ski/board? Perfect - our club is a great chance for your child to improve his/her skills. Your child doesn’t know how to ski/board yet? No worries - it’s a great chance to learn. Lessons and rentals are included for everyone at NO additional cost. Does your child already have a season’s pass to Alpine/Brandywine? No worries - we can accommodate that too! The Ski/Snowboard Club is open to all students grades 8 through grade 12 who are academically eligible to participate in extracurricular activities. We will be skiing every Tuesday evening in January. The FINAL DAY for the ONLINE SKI CLUB REGISTRATION is on December 20th. To register, go online to https://www.bmbw.com/club-program/. After submitting the online registration your child needs to turn in the emergency medical forms and the bus fee to complete his/her registration.If your son/daughter already has a season pass, SKIP the online registration and just turn in the emergency forms and the bus fee. Paperwork/bus fees can be turned into Miss Fisher in room 307 or to the main office (directed to her attention). If you have any questions, please contact the adviser (Alison Fisher) at alison.fisher@chardonschools.org or have your child see Miss Fisher during the school day in room 307. Hope your son/daughter considers joining us on the slopes in January! It will be so much fun! Twitter Updates Follow us on Twitter for the latest about Chardon High School: Mr. Murray, Principal: @chs_dmurray and @chardonhs Mr. Bandiera, Assistant Principal: @Mr_Bandiera Mr. Higham, Assistant Principal: @CHS_AP_HIGHAM Mr. Snyder, Athletic Director: @toppernation The last publication of the Week in Reflection for 2019 will be sent on Friday, December 20th. The newsletter publication will return for the New Year. Thank you for sharing your children with us! Stay Warm! Douglas Murray, Principal 
1 Comment
Battle at the Barn Watch the match by clicking on the photo Chardon and Riverside high schools take it to the mat for the Battle in the Barn The spotlights were drawn to the center of the mat for the first ever “Battle in the Barn” series of wrestling matches held between the high schools of Chardon and the Riverside District. The two schools met in the Chardon High School gymnasium on Dec. 5 in hopes of starting an ongoing tradition. The inter-school showdown was in good spirit, aimed at drawing further attention toward the Jeremy’s Kids fundraiser. Chardon High School teacher Rob Mizen lost his young son Jeremy to a motor vehicle accident in 1999, and the charity was first created as a means to celebrate his life. This is the 20th year that Jeremy’s Kids has worked towards raising money for children in need throughout Geauga County. The fundraiser has grown in years with redoubled community support through organizations like local Rotary Clubs, Chardon Methodist Church, and the County’s Jobs and Family Services agency. The Chardon High School gymnasium moments before the student athletes take to the mats for the Battle in the barn, Dec. 5 A Chardon Schools news release explained why they selected wrestling for the exhibition sport of choice. “Wrestling was chosen since it’s a sport that fewer are familiar with; one of the most competitive, character-building interscholastic sports offered at Chardon High School. The wrestlers are honored to help be a part of the larger event of raising funds for Jeremy’s Kids,” the news release stated. The Battle in the Barn had a “big fight feel” with the wrestlers coming out to entrance music and spotlighting to heighten the drama. The student athletes were well supported by packed bleachers of enthused students that treated the event with the cheering fervor usually reserved for Homecoming rallies. Donations going towards Jeremy’s Kids will be collected until Dec. 13. At that point, proceeds will be used to purchase Christmas presents for children of poverty-limited families. Amount fundraised just at the match: $1,250 Want to learn more? Read below to consider supporting this meaningful cause.  CHARDON HIGH SCHOOL 2019-2020 This year AC4P, NHS, Interact, and the Actively Caring Leadership class will raise funds for the 20th annual Jeremy's Kids Christmas fundraiser. This fundraiser is in memory of Jeremy Mizen, the 6-year-old son of teacher Rob Mizen, who died in a car crash on Christmas Eve in 1999. Instead of dwelling on their horrible loss and having this tragic event destroy their lives, Mr. Mizen and his wife decided that they would instead celebrate Jeremy’s life focusing on the positive aspects of his life. AC4P, NHS, Interact, and the Actively Caring Leadership class will use the raised funds to support less fortunate families in the Chardon Community. Many local families are struggling financially with giving their children gifts on Christmas. Every year the students of Chardon High School have joined together with the community to make sure relief was available to these families. Thank you for your generosity. Please make checks payable to Chardon Local Schools. (memo: Jeremy's Kids)+ Rob Mizen Chardon High School 151 Chardon Ave. Chardon Ohio, 44024 Details:
Topper Club Awards Our core values recognize Achievement as an essential benchmark of the learning that transpires every day at Chardon High School. We have extraordinary educators that prepare our students for college, career, and life readiness. Our students refine their learning in the classroom and demonstrate their abilities in so many skill sets in extra-curriculars, service, and clubs. It is our goal that every single person in this room will graduate finding his/her purpose. The programs and experiences that you experience at Chardon from grades 8-12 expose you to opportunities to achieve this purpose. More importantly, the relationships that you develop are paramount in your development. Every student matters to us. Taking the time to celebrate achievement collectively provides us the motivation and encouragement to push and strive for success ---so that every student will find their outcome after walking across the stage to further education, immediate employment, enlistment into our armed forces, and even delving into becoming a young entrepreneur. Today, we will celebrate many moments of achievement. Furthermore, being a part of the Topper Club is an extraordinary accomplishment. Our students being recognized today have maintained a GPA of 3.75 or higher. Looking throughout the gym today, we are seeing the future leaders of our ever-changing world. Together, we are witnessing the development of engineers, doctors, lawyers, educators, chemists, advanced manufacturers, cosmetologists, medics, leaders, and philanthropists who see the good in others and respond to the needs of others. We are grateful for your leadership and look forward to the many ways that you will serve our school in the present and the future. National Merit Commended Students National Merit Commended students placed among the top 50,000 scorers of more than 1.6 million students who entered the competition by taking the 2018 PSAT/National Merit Qualifying Test. These young men and women are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. While these students will not continue in the National Merit Scholarship Competition, they have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success. Both of Chardon High School’s students who are recognized this year demonstrate academic and service leadership. They are being commended, not only for National Recognition, but for embracing the Core Values of our school with consistent integrity. Please join me in recognizing: Natalie Dumm Karlie Pirnat  National Merit Semi-Finalists Over 1.5 million students in some 21,000 high schools entered the National Merit Scholarship competition by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) The 16,000 Semifinalists represent less than one percent of US High school seniors and includes the highest scoring entrants in each state. From here, semi-finalists have the opportunity to advance to the Finalist level. Finalists will be notified in February of this designation. Please join me in congratulating our National Merit Semi-Finalist. Lauren Dvorak Natalie Fullerman Kelly Holl (Not Pictured) Ashley Tice  RPI Scholarship The Rensselaer Medal was first presented in 1916 with the purpose of recognizing the superlative academic achievement of young men and women and to motivate students towards careers in science, engineering, and technology. As a Rensselaer Medal Recipient, this individual is eligible to receive a $25,000 annual merit scholarship, valued at $100,000 to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Please join me in recognizing our 2019 recipient Sarah Bennett. New this year, Chardon will be nominating a high school Junior as the 2020 recipient. The 2020 Nomination for the Rensselaer Medal Award for Outstanding Math and Science goes to Peter Robie.  Harvard Award The Harvard book award is presented each year by Harvard Alumni Association to an outstanding student who displays excellence in scholarship and high character combined with achievement in other fields. The winners of this award, through their intelligence and variety of achievement, exemplify Harvard’s commitment to excellence. This recipient is no exception; please join me in recognizing: Clare Myeroff  Presentation of Awards 10th Grade Certificates 11th Grade Academic Letters 12th Grade Academic Letters/Pins    Core Values Award: Principal’s Awards 12th grade Gwendolyn Avery Natalie Fullerman Hannah Holbert Kaylie Malloy Madeline McDonald Blue Veon Keaton Ziegenfuss 11th grade Andrew Fetchik Emma Gittins Jacob Stephans Campbell Tierney 10th grade Elizabeth Daugherty Austin Snow Claire Suszynski 9th grade Sam Francis Alexis Jahnke Maysen Jahnke Faith Kilfoyle Sydney Murray Eric Sivula  Every single day provides for us an opportunity to give, to learn, and to serve. I am forever grateful to the friends that I have as I walk down each hallway. It is easy to call the staff at CHS my friends. The teachers and staff members energize me with their passion for learning and love of our students. The staff at CHS have rallied this year around one single focus: Live Your Purpose. This simple statement has created a culture of caring, and a focus on high achievement. I love my staff, and I am forever grateful for their gifts that they provide our students. One of the best parts of my day is interacting with students. It is hard to believe that we are almost at the halfway point of the school year. We have such wonderful students! I truly love their kindness, energy, creativity, and leadership. I am so grateful for the beauty they give to the Chardon community. I am a better man just by working beside each of them. I am grateful for the support, encouragement, and assistance that our parents have provided not only me, but to our teachers, coaches, and community. You continue to model servant leadership to each of us! Fall AIR TestOn Wednesday, December 11, students in US Government along with several students who were contacted by Guidance will be taking the Fall AIR tests. We will be running an adjusted schedule in order to accommodate this test. Please note the start of classes on December 11th, and December 12th. All School transportation will be running at the regular times. *Important: If you are not in US Government, or have not been directly talked to by your counselor regarding make-ups--classes begin at 10:18 AM. Regular school transportation will follow the typical morning routes.   Midterm Week: The purpose of this week is to meet the educational needs of our students as they prepare for midterms, finals, and project presentations. ALL classes will meet during midterm week. If a class does not have a midterm or a final, they will commence a class period. The only non-mandatory period is a study hall. Students do not need to sit in the study hall. We will provide supervision in the cafeteria for a silent study hall as needed, but attendance is not mandatory. Important Notes: --Transportation will run at the regular time in the morning and afternoon. --All academic classes will meet during the scheduled time. Dismissal will occur at 12:10 PM Tuesday - Friday. --Lunch during the week (Tuesday - Friday) will be À la carte. --Auburn students will have scheduled exams that do not impede upon their schedule. --CHS Teachers will be in teacher-based teams each day after exams. --In the case that we have a calamity day during an exam schedule, we will follow the scheduled exam day and adjust the afternoon exam time slots by adding the missed exam(s). Read this document online. The Learning CommonsAttached is the December issue of The Learning Center Newsletter. In this issue, you will find information on Chromebook repair, and general technology pointers that pertain to the technology used here at Chardon High. Please take a moment to read over the articles, which contain a lot of useful information. Piece of the Week"Ukelele" by Jackson Perry, Grade 11  Need a Christmas present for your son/daughter? Give the gift of snow before it’s too late and allow your son/daughter the opportunity to join the CHS Ski/Snowboard Club! Does your child already like to ski/board? Perfect - our club is a great chance for your child to improve his/her skills. Your child doesn’t know how to ski/board yet? No worries - it’s a great chance to learn. Lessons and rentals are included for everyone at NO additional cost. Does your child already have a season’s pass to Alpine/Brandywine? No worries - we can accommodate that too! The Ski/Snowboard Club is open to all students grades 8 through grade 12 who are academically eligible to participate in extracurricular activities. We will be skiing every Tuesday evening in January. The FINAL DAY for the ONLINE SKI CLUB REGISTRATION is on December 20th. To register, go online to https://www.bmbw.com/club-program/. After submitting the online registration your child needs to turn in the emergency medical forms and the bus fee to complete his/her registration.If your son/daughter already has a season pass, SKIP the online registration and just turn in the emergency forms and the bus fee. Paperwork/bus fees can be turned into Miss Fisher in room 307 or to the main office (directed to her attention). If you have any questions, please contact the adviser (Alison Fisher) at alison.fisher@chardonschools.org or have your child see Miss Fisher during the school day in room 307. Hope your son/daughter considers joining us on the slopes in January! It will be so much fun! Chardon Goes to the MusicalsTickets make great presents! Consider ordering Jersey Boys, Anastasia, or Frozen, for the holidays. Tickets will be distributed prior to Winter Break. Also, if you are interested in seeing Hamilton when it returns to Cleveland next fall, please contact Elizabeth Fullerman at 216-299-5141 or efullerman@hotmail.com, as Chardon Goes to the Musicals is expected to have group seats after the first of the year. As a reminder, this is not a fundraiser, just an opportunity to enjoy Playhouse Square, the second largest theater district outside of Broadway.   Chardon Supports Willoughby South Literally one month ago, many experiences and opportunities were canceled due to a failed levy in the Willoughby Eastlake School District. Politics aside, supporting students in their passion and joy is pivotal during their adolescence. We work hard to model our core values at Chardon not only within the building but extend deep into our community, conference, state, and world. I am sharing with you an opportunity to support students in our conference that worked tirelessly over the last month to organize a production company, raise money, and connect with local partnerships to put on their fall show. Chardon supports all of the arts and particularly support our friends at Willoughby South. The image above will link you to learn more about their show. Talent Show A Time to Reflect It is hard to believe that we celebrated Thanksgiving last week. Preparing for the holiday season can deploy so many emotions: excitement, beauty, new beginnings, and stress. Our response to the season often can act as an amalgamation of all of these feelings all at one time. So, how can you take time this December to prepare for the season? Excitement: Recall the emotions that you had as a child. You were filled with wonder and awe. Life was very simple in your eyes and everything was pure. These feelings remind us that this time of year is about spending time in the comfort of family and friends while celebrating traditions. Recreate these traditions with your family and celebrate each other. Your time together is so precious. As a child, we cherished these moments. Our children need traditions and memories to pass on these celebrations with their families someday. Stop for a moment to reflect on how quickly your time has come and gone with your children. These moments can never be replicated. We all need to pause and be reminded that certain things at work can wait in order for us to celebrate our children. Beauty: This season is filled with beauty in Ohio. Yes, not all of us love snow. Yet, we cannot ignore its glory around us throughout this season. We know that our lives do not surround the obvious plot twists on the Hallmark channel, but we can pause to see the beauty in the simple things of life. I preach all of the time that we all have a story and together our stories make our community. Take time this month to create new habits for yourself, or even break some tough ones. One of the hardest tasks that dwell deep inside of humanity is being at peace with yourself. As hard as it can be---reduce the noise around you to see the beauty in you. Your life is a gift to be shared and nourished. Take time for yourself to breathe, slow down, and live in the moment. New Beginnings: Celebrate your relationships. This is nothing new to your vocabulary. Many people are uncomfortable this time of year because of failed relationships, mourning, and hardships. Many of us have a hard time letting go of the past, of feelings, and tough memories. How will you ever grow? Will you run from it or learn becomes of it? Seize every positive moment as an opportunity to expand your humility and every difficult moment as an opportunity to expand your territory and influence. Life is too short to hold on to the past as an ornament. Rather, seize the moment and polish your choices from it. Stress: Without a doubt, this time of year can cause stress. A simple example is to look at our mothers and spouses this time of year. They are stressed because they want everything to be perfect. That's all fine, but if you want your mother or spouse to experience fully the above stated---HELP THEM. This time of year is not to be burdened on the shoulders of one. It is an opportunity to show our love to those that care for us. Besides the stress that our families have during this season, we have our own personal stress. Students have the stress of exams, finals, and projects on top of their job and athletics. Of course, our children love to schedule (without telling us) social gatherings with their friends. Students, take time to check your phone in at the door and converse with your family. The latest post on Snapchat is certainly not as important as talking to a human face-to-face. Likewise, this time of year is a stressful time for staff as they attempt to do all of the above: preserve the excitement with their families, seeing the beauty in themselves, creating new beginnings, and grading all of their exams and projects. I am grateful to each of them as they work together to create new routines in new places while serving our mission. With the time constraints of my job, it so important that I practice what I preach. The students and staff know that they are an extension of my family...but my faith, family, and friends are mission critical to the daily energy and tasks asked of me as one of the building leaders. Be the best version of yourself to those that matter most and live today with a focus on tomorrow. Make today great! Douglas Murray, Principal  Mr. Bandiera Happy Thanksgiving! Chardon Community. Another Thanksgiving has come and I am again provided with time to reflect on all the blessings I receive daily through my role as Assistant Principal at Chardon High School. The greatest part of my job is the time I get to spend with students. It is amazing to see the students I started with as freshman grow and mature to the leaders of our building as seniors. It has been a great privilege to watch these students grow and mature all while watching our younger students come into the building and learn. As we approach this holiday season, it is my hope that all of the Chardon High School Students, Families, and Staff take the time needed to rest, relax, and regroup. Chardon High School continues to grow and change with our students and staff. We have been blessed with the second year of 8th grade students in our building. Our students and staff continue learning and achieving at a record rate. In all these great accomplishments, I ask that we all seek the much needed balance in our lives by resting and relaxing. Spend this time with your family and take your mind off school. When we return, we will once again carry out our mission of High Achievement for All Students! My break will be filled with this time of rest and relaxation. It is an exciting time for my wife and I as we celebrate with our son, Anderson. It is exciting to see him understand and respond to the joys of the holiday season. This Thanksgiving, we are lucky enough to spend it with our families and friends who provide us love and support. Thank you for the constant love and support I receive daily from the Chardon Community. I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving and blessed holiday season. -Mr. Bandiera Mr. Higham Chardon community, I want to take the time to thank all of you for being in my life. Whether you know it or not, you are all a part of my heart. Without you all, I would not be where I am today. I am so thankful that I have been given this opportunity to live out my dreams. I am especially thankful for the amazing people I work with. The amount of support and friendships at Chardon High School is incredible. I am so thankful to be a part of a great team! To my friends, I tell you all the time how much I appreciate you! Now I want the world to know that I am extremely thankful for you! I honestly can say I have the most amazing people in my life! To my family, words cannot express how thankful I am to have you in my life. Your love and support are endlessly and uplifting. You are my rock! In this festive season, I hope you are surrounded by the love of your family and dear friends. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. Mr. Higham Mr. Murray Wow. This semester is flying by. Thanksgiving gives us the opportunity to pause and reflect on the simple things of life. It is important to take the time to reflect on all of the beauty of the semester. Every single day provides for us an opportunity to give, to learn, and to serve. I am forever grateful to the friends that I have as I walk down each hallway. It is easy to call the staff at CHS my friends. The teachers and staff members energize me with their passion for learning and love of our students. I love my staff, and I am forever grateful for their gifts that they provide our students. One of the best parts of my day is interacting with students. It is hard to believe that we are almost at the halfway point of the school year. We have such wonderful students! I truly love their kindness, energy, creativity, and leadership. I am so grateful for the beauty they give to the Chardon community. I am a better man just by working beside each of them. From sitting with our eighth graders to meeting with our seniors-- I love spending my time with each of them. I am grateful for the support, encouragement, and assistance that our parents have provided not only me, but to our teachers, coaches, and community. You continue to model servant leadership to each of us! Most importantly, I am grateful to my beautiful family that sacrifice so much to be with me. My wife is truly my best friend. She is beside me at many events, and often waits up for me for all the dances, and evening events. I am blessed to have our daughters at Chardon, and I look forward to sharing many memories with them through their years in our district. Thanksgiving is an opportunity to give thanks to the simple things in life: family, friends and familiar fellowship. Let this day be a reminder of how the simple things in life are the strongest reminders of why we work, why we give, and why we serve. Have a beautiful week with your family! -Mr. Murray  There will be no Week in Reflection this Friday. Stay warm!
Last week's edition of the Week in Reflection. Friday Night Football
The Hilltopper Football Team will play in the OHSAA Division III Regional Final at Solon High School on Friday, November 22 at 7:00 pm.
Presale ticket information as follows:
Video of the WeekBuilt Chardon Strong
Over the past three weeks, I have been extremely connected to our students in providing communications, counseling, and service to our mission. Mr. Higham, Mr. Bandiera, and I have taken time to meet with numerous students to discuss academics, relationships, and behaviors.
Countless hours have been spent with families, outside agencies, and local advocates to document, plan, and articulate ways to provide and ensure that all of the situations that have come to our offices are comprehensively attended to with precision. In between proactively talking with groups, guiding young students with their words, and situations outside of the school--- we have worked tirelessly to not interrupt learning and targeted outcomes in the classroom. Many of the tasks that the administration works on are unnoticed by many, but they are done out of a commitment to you, our students, and our school. We do this while balancing our own family life. The CHS staff are extraordinary people. They have been assisting me, our assistant principals, and teachers while we manage and lead through covering classes, lending a hand with supervision, and assisting students with their needs. At our core, community driven values and relationships carry the beacon that drives our success. The phrase that breathes energy in our building is Chardon Strong. This mantra is best understood in the following ways: We are Chardon. To live our values means that we are defined by our response to any outcome. We have modeled this for generations of students and parents towards how we respond to difficulty. We are a community in good and bad times who will live with integrity. We have been consistently humbled in our response to moments of success, doubt, and difficulty. We are a district that demonstrates achievement in our outcomes to the state, and outreach to our community and nation. We model respect in our success and failures and how we respond to each other. We recognize the value of seeing the dignity and honor of all of the students and staff members that we encounter. Most importantly, we are optimistic for tomorrow by living our purpose today as we nurture each other. We are Chardon...you cannot be built much tougher. As we transition into Thanksgiving, take the time to give thanks to someone who has made a difference in your life this school year. AP Language and Composition
Mrs. Newman’s AP Language and Composition class re-enacted the dinner at the Tabard Inn described in Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Each student dressed as a character from the prologue and gave a speech. In this speech, each student introduced his or her character and used various methods of characterization so the other travelers could identify who the student was. The speeches ended in a banquet fit for a king!
Honor Choir
On November 15th and 16th, a select group of CHS singers and instrumentalists participated in the Ohio Music Educators Association (OMEA) District Honor Choir. The event was held at the music school at Cleveland State University, under the leadership of talented guest clinicians. The students combined efforts of talented musicians from 20+ other area high schools to make for a powerhouse set of concerts. The students had intensive rehearsals all day Friday and a portion of the day Saturday in preparation for a final concert held on Saturday afternoon. The choirs were represented by: Clare Myeroff, Whitney Beorn, Madie Houser, Maya Pedersen, Jesse Decipeda, Ethan Peterson, Mitchell Ewaska, and Layne Fierman. The band was represented by Brigit Morgan on trombone. The choir program included pieces from South Africa and the Middle East. The women of the choir shared a piece titled "Ad Astra" that inspires us to find resilience in tough times. It was a powerful and beautiful program. Congratulations to these elite CHS musicians!
AHLI
AHLI students went on a field trip to the Environmental Learning Center on Friday. Mrs. Yeager and her students gathered water samples and looked at bacteria under the microscope and dissected owl pellets.
CHARDON HIGH SCHOOL 2019-2020
This year AC4P, NHS, Interact, and the Actively Caring Leadership class will raise funds for the 20th annual Jeremy's Kids Christmas fundraiser. This fundraiser is in memory of Jeremy Mizen, the 6-year-old son of teacher Rob Mizen, who died in a car crash on Christmas Eve in 1999. Instead of dwelling on their horrible loss and having this tragic event destroy their lives, Mr. Mizen and his wife decided that they would instead celebrate Jeremy’s life focusing on the positive aspects of his life. AC4P, NHS, Interact, and the Actively Caring Leadership class will use the raised funds to support less fortunate families in the Chardon Community. Many local families are struggling financially with giving their children gifts on Christmas. Every year the students of Chardon High School have joined together with the community to make sure relief was available to these families. Thank you for your generosity. Please make checks payable to Chardon Local Schools. (memo: Jeremy's Kids)+ Rob Mizen Chardon High School 151 Chardon Ave. Chardon Ohio, 44024 Details:
Dear Eighth Graders and Eighth Grade Parents,
We are so excited about our trip to Washington, D.C.! There is so much to look forward to, and spring is a beautiful time of year to be in our nation’s capital. School-sponsored tours are essential elements of our academic programs at Chardon High School. Our eighth-graders will have the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. on a curriculum-based overnight field trip from May 4-6, 2020. The following are the guidelines for this trip. The cost of the trip is $445. This includes all meals (except lunch Monday), lodging, and guided experiences. Payment plan: first payment November 15th ($245), second payment February 7th ($100), and third payment March 13th ($100) or full payment on November 15th. Payments can be made on Infinite Campus or a check (made out to Chardon Board of Education) through the CHS business office. All school fees (including athletic fees) must be paid prior to the second trip payment date February 7, 2020. While every effort will be made to honor room requests, CHS reserves the right to assign hotel rooms and bus assignments. Violation of our core values may eliminate eligibility for the trip. If a student’s eligibility is removed, any payments made to the tour company will not be refunded. Students and parents understand that all school rules and Chardon Local School District Board of Education Policies and Procedures are in effect. If there are any disciplinary issues on the trip, the administration reserves the right to require your child to be picked up at the parents’ or guardians’ expense. We know how excited everyone is for this awesome trip, and we really appreciate your respect for these guidelines. By signing below, you will indicate your intention to follow them. Please complete the information below by November 4, 2019, and return to Mr. Higham. Once this form is submitted, the cost of the trip will be added to your child’s school fees account on Infinite Campus. This document can be viewed in detail here. Please direct all questions to douglas.higham@chardonschools.org
Below is the presentation form last Monday's meeting.
Fall AIR Test
On Wednesday, December 11, students in US Government along with several students who were contacted by Guidance will be taking the Fall AIR tests. We will be running an adjusted schedule in order to accommodate this test. Please note the start of classes on December 11th, and December 12th. All School transportation will be running at the regular times.
In order to fully plan for this quarter, we wanted you to have access to the Midterm Schedule in December.
Midterm Week: The purpose of this week is to meet the educational needs of our students as they prepare for midterms, finals, and project presentations. ALL classes will meet during midterm week. If a class does not have a midterm or a final, they will commence a class period. The only non-mandatory period is a study hall. Students do not need to sit in the study hall. We will provide supervision in the cafeteria for a silent study hall as needed, but attendance is not mandatory. Important Notes: --Transportation will run at the regular time in the morning and afternoon. --All academic classes will meet during the scheduled time. Dismissal will occur at 12:10 PM Tuesday - Friday. --Lunch during the week (Tuesday - Friday) will be À la carte. --Auburn students will have scheduled exams that do not impede upon their schedule. --CHS Teachers will be in teacher-based teams each day after exams. --In the case that we have a calamity day during an exam schedule, we will follow the scheduled exam day and adjust the afternoon exam time slots by adding the missed exam(s). Read this document online. Piece of the Week
Images of the Week
Mr. Goss and Mr. Herner took a group of Topper Time students on a field trip to Lake View Cemetery after their study of the Garfield Biography.
Chardon Goes to the Musicals
Tickets make great presents! Consider ordering Jersey Boys, Anastasia, or Frozen, for the holidays. Tickets will be distributed prior to Winter Break. Also, if you are interested in seeing Hamilton when it returns to Cleveland next fall, please contact Elizabeth Fullerman at 216-299-5141 or efullerman@hotmail.com, as Chardon Goes to the Musicals is expected to have group seats after the first of the year. As a reminder, this is not a fundraiser, just an opportunity to enjoy Playhouse Square, the second largest theater district outside of Broadway.
AFS Needs our HELP
American Field Service (AFS) is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world. Chardon High School has a strong relationship with AFS-- providing cultural and academic learning to countless students over the years.
This past week, AFS has contacted us asking our academic community for assistance. AFS is looking for host families – We have 2 students in temporary housing and 1 that needs to be moved due to a family change in status. If your family has an interest--please contact Barb Plishka at 440-223-2068 or Sandy Caporossi at 440-477-3922. Thank you! Meeting for 2020 Greece Adventure
Time is running out! Join the 2020 Athens & the Islands Greece Adventure now! A student trip info session will be held on Thursday, December 5th, at 7:00 pm in Room 210. Mrs. Niedzwiecki will be there to answer any of your questions and help you register for this once-in-a-lifetime trip. Both Students and Families are welcome on this amazing tour. Please click on the link to RSVP for the meeting.
RSVP for the 12-5-19 Information Meeting for 2020 Greece Adventure Topper Bistro
Monday
Hilltopper Chicken Bowl Mashed Potatoes Homemade Gravy Seasoned Corn Grab and Go Salads and Sandwiches Bosco Sticks Spicy Chicken Sandwich Assorted Pizzas Chicken or Burgers Tuesday Pasta Time!!! Penne with Marinara sauce Homemade Chicken Alfredo Warm Garlic Bread Italian ice Steamed Broccoli Chicken or Burgers Grab & Go Salads and Sandwiches Specialty Pizza Panini Sandwiches
Parent Resources
Twitter- Follow @chs_dmurray and @chardonhs Remind 101- Text @TopperUp to the following number 81010 Chardon High School Google Calendar Chardon Athletics Sports Calendar Chardon Athletics Website Video Announcements: Link for the Morning Announcements Chardon High School: Program of Study Chardon High School Bell Schedule Google Document of our bell schedule Chardon High School Student Handbook Teacher Resources for CHS Students ( LIVE by the 1st quarter)
The Week in Reflection will not run next week. A special Thanksgiving edition will run on Tuesday. Have a beautiful weekend and GO TOPPERS!
The Circuit Goes to Columbus
On Monday, Chardon High School teachers, students, and administrators drove down to Columbus to present at the Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA). The presentation was a highly engaging demonstration of the growth of Chardon High School's Circuit of Success program.
For nearly an hour, our students and teachers engaged the purpose, intention, and values of the Principles of Leadership, Communication, Innovation, Problem Solving, Global Awareness, and Entrepreneurship/Networking. The patrons in the audience interacted in the presentation--sharing out with the guests in ways that our students interact with each other. The presentation unveiled the best of what we instill in our students: communication skills, confidence, poise, and critical thinking. The feedback was extremely positive. One superintendent stated that he has gone to OSBA for the past twenty years and our presentation was the most engaging, and insightful presentation that he has ever attended. We are so proud of the growth, positive feedback, and community engagement that this program has bestowed upon our students at CHS. Over the last several months, Mr. Kovach as worked with intentionality to align our Circuit of Success to the Ohio Means Jobs Readiness Seal. By the end of this year, all students in the Class of 2023, and 2024 will have earned this state recognized seal for graduation! 
Presenters at Conference:
Douglas Murray, Principal; Douglas Higham, Assistant Principal; Holly Mihalek, ELA teacher and Circuit of Communication; Jill Carpenter, Science teacher and Circuit of Innovation; Rob Mizen, Science Teacher/Service Learning and Circuit of Leadership; Al Herner, CCP Business and Circuit of Entrepreneurship; Kristen Niedzwiecki, Spanish, and Circuit of Global Awareness. Student presenters: Sydney Murray, Faith Kilfoyle, Maci Jahnke, and Alexis Jahnke. 
Fall Play
I highly recommend heading to Park Auditorium this weekend to watch and play-The Westing Game. Our students are SO talented. I am so thankful to the cast, crew, and directors of our fall play! Extraordinary job!
Title: The Westing Game
When: November 14, 16 at 7:00 PM; November 17 at 2:00 pm Where: Park Auditorium Cost: $5 Students, $10 Adults Synopsis: The unsuspecting residents of Sunset Towers are summoned to the reading of a mysterious will, only to find themselves locked in a thrilling game, as they must discover who is responsible for killing an eccentric millionaire. Through blizzards, bombings and unlikely alliances, the game is on, and the only people who hold all the clues are one Westing heir and you. 
Fall Sports Awards
Last week, we celebrated the may accomplishments of our fall athletes. Enclosed is the program that recognize the many accomplishments of our student athletes.
Dear Eighth Graders and Eighth Grade Parents,
We are so excited about our trip to Washington, D.C.! There is so much to look forward to, and spring is a beautiful time of year to be in our nation’s capital. School-sponsored tours are essential elements of our academic programs at Chardon High School. Our eighth-graders will have the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. on a curriculum-based overnight field trip from May 4-6, 2020. The following are the guidelines for this trip. The cost of the trip is $445. This includes all meals (except lunch Monday), lodging, and guided experiences. Payment plan: first payment November 15th ($245), second payment February 7th ($100), and third payment March 13th ($100) or full payment on November 15th. Payments can be made on Infinite Campus or a check (made out to Chardon Board of Education) through the CHS business office. All school fees (including athletic fees) must be paid prior to the second trip payment date February 7, 2020. While every effort will be made to honor room requests, CHS reserves the right to assign hotel rooms and bus assignments. Violation of our core values may eliminate eligibility for the trip. If a student’s eligibility is removed, any payments made to the tour company will not be refunded. Students and parents understand that all school rules and Chardon Local School District Board of Education Policies and Procedures are in effect. If there are any disciplinary issues on the trip, the administration reserves the right to require your child to be picked up at the parents’ or guardians’ expense. We know how excited everyone is for this awesome trip, and we really appreciate your respect for these guidelines. By signing below, you will indicate your intention to follow them. Please complete the information below by November 4, 2019, and return to Mr. Higham. Once this form is submitted, the cost of the trip will be added to your child’s school fees account on Infinite Campus. This document can be viewed in detail here. We will hold a mandatory information night for parents on November 18, 2019, at 6:00 pm. At this meeting, we will be distributing a tentative itinerary which will highlight many of the places that we will visit and more specific information regarding the needs for this trip. The itinerary is located here. Please direct all questions to douglas.higham@chardonschools.org 
CHARDON HIGH SCHOOL 2019-2020
This year AC4P, NHS, Interact, and the Actively Caring Leadership class will raise funds for the 20th annual Jeremy's Kids Christmas fundraiser. This fundraiser is in memory of Jeremy Mizen, the 6-year-old son of teacher Rob Mizen, who died in a car crash on Christmas Eve in 1999. Instead of dwelling on their horrible loss and having this tragic event destroy their lives, Mr. Mizen and his wife decided that they would instead celebrate Jeremy’s life focusing on the positive aspects of his life. AC4P, NHS, Interact, and the Actively Caring Leadership class will use the raised funds to support less fortunate families in the Chardon Community. Many local families are struggling financially with giving their children gifts on Christmas. Every year the students of Chardon High School have joined together with the community to make sure relief was available to these families. Thank you for your generosity. Please make checks payable to Chardon Local Schools. (memo: Jeremy's Kids)+ Rob Mizen Chardon High School 151 Chardon Ave. Chardon Ohio, 44024 Details:
Fall AIR Test
On Wednesday, December 11, students in US Government along with several students who were contacted by Guidance will be taking the Fall AIR tests. We will be running an adjusted schedule in order to accommodate this test. Please note the start of classes on December 11th, and December 12th. All School transportation will be running at the regular times.
In order to fully plan for this quarter, we wanted you to have access to the Midterm Schedule in December.
Midterm Week: The purpose of this week is to meet the educational needs of our students as they prepare for midterms, finals, and project presentations. ALL classes will meet during midterm week. If a class does not have a midterm or a final, they will commence a class period. The only non-mandatory period is a study hall. Students do not need to sit in the study hall. We will provide supervision in the cafeteria for a silent study hall as needed, but attendance is not mandatory. Important Notes: --Transportation will run at the regular time in the morning and afternoon. --All academic classes will meet during the scheduled time. Dismissal will occur at 12:10 PM Tuesday - Friday. --Lunch during the week (Tuesday - Friday) will be À la carte. --Auburn students will have scheduled exams that do not impede upon their schedule. --CHS Teachers will be in teacher-based teams each day after exams. --In the case that we have a calamity day during an exam schedule, we will follow the scheduled exam day and adjust the afternoon exam time slots by adding the missed exam(s). Read this document online. 
Please click on the link below to sign up for PT Conferences.
Thursday, November 21 (4:30-8:00 pm) Sign up here. 
Do you like to ski or snowboard? If so, consider joining the CHS Downhill Ski/Snowboard Club. This club program is open to students from grade 8 through grade 12. It will run after school for a minimum of five consecutive Tuesdays beginning January 7th. The club will be skiing at Brandywine Ski Resort. Club passes are also valid at Alpine Valley. No experience is necessary to join; both rentals and lessons are included in the club price. Students who have season passes are welcome to join and only pay the bus fee.
If your son/daughter is interested in joining, please see the attached forms for more details about registration. The first registration deadline is November 22, which is just four weeks away! All students who register by this date get a free long-sleeve ski club shirt at no additional cost! If you have any questions, please contact the adviser (Alison Fisher) at alison.fisher@chardonschools.org or have your child see Miss Fisher during the school day in room 307. Hope you consider joining us on the slopes in January! 
SUBMISSION DEADLINE for senior pictures are Friday, JANUARY 10, 2020
Requirements for your senior picture:
Submitting your senior picture:
Note: Digital submissions are much preferred and strongly recommended in order to preserve the quality of the photos. Piece of the Week
Grace Fullum, Grade 10, "Engineering of Jewelry"
Images of the Week
Thank you to the amazing Chardon High School students and teachers who helped us sort the good today for the Gearity School Market!
Another thank you to the students in 6th period study hall that cleaned off cars during the entire period! Core values in action!
Video of the WeekChardon Goes to the Musicals
Tickets make great presents! Consider ordering Jersey Boys, Anastasia, or Frozen, for the holidays. Tickets will be distributed prior to Winter Break. Also, if you are interested in seeing Hamilton when it returns to Cleveland next fall, please contact Elizabeth Fullerman at 216-299-5141 or efullerman@hotmail.com, as Chardon Goes to the Musicals is expected to have group seats after the first of the year. As a reminder, this is not a fundraiser, just an opportunity to enjoy Playhouse Square, the second largest theater district outside of Broadway.
School Fees are DUE
School fees are due to Chardon Local Schools. Payable at your student's individual school. Please look at your student's Infinite Campus account under “Fees” to see what is owed for each child. All Participation fees for the Fall Season are due. DO NOT PAY WINTER Participation fees until they are posted in Infinite Campus. This takes a little time to get the final official rosters from the coaches added and adjustments made where needed. When you are looking at the fess, if something does not look right or your student has dropped a class and it is still showing, please call so that it can be corrected. If you have questions, please contact Carolyn.McBride@chardonschools.org AFS
American Field Service (AFS) is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world. Chardon High School has a strong relationship with AFS-- providing cultural and academic learning to countless students over the years.
This past week, AFS has contacted us asking our academic community for assistance. AFS is looking for host families – We have 2 students in temporary housing and 1 that needs to be moved due to a family change in status. If your family has an interest--please contact Barb Plishka at 440-223-2068 or Sandy Caporossi at 440-477-3922. Thank you! Topper Bistro
Parent Resources
Twitter- Follow @chs_dmurray and @chardonhs Remind 101- Text @TopperUp to the following number 81010 Chardon High School Google Calendar Chardon Athletics Sports Calendar Chardon Athletics Website Video Announcements: Link for the Morning Announcements Chardon High School: Program of Study Chardon High School Bell Schedule Google Document of our bell schedule Chardon High School Student Handbook Teacher Resources for CHS Students ( LIVE by the 1st quarter) A Message from Dr. Hanlon
Chardon Schools’ Facilities Advisory Committee Makes Recommendations Concerning School Future Bond Issue and Facilities Planning
Dear Chardon Schools Stakeholder: The Chardon Local School District’s Facilities Advisory Committee met on Thursday, November 7, 2019, to discuss the results of the November 5th election and the failure of the proposed bond issue for the construction of a new 6-12 facility along with other locally-funded initiatives. The proposed issue failed by a margin of 44% for the issue and 56% against the issue. The Committee acknowledged a divide within the community over the issue of new school facilities. In order to meet the needs of the district’s students, it will be important to work to unify the community around a vision of a future capital improvement plan. Recognizing this, the recommendation from the committee is to not place another bond issue request on the March 2020 ballot. Additional recommendations from the committee to the Board of Education include the following:
I will share these recommendations from the committee with our Board of Education on Monday, November 18, 2019. Sincerely, Michael P. Hanlon, Jr., Ph.D. Superintendent GO HILLTOPPERS!
Ticket Info for Friday's 11/15 playoff football at Solon
Two ways to purchase pre-sale: Online: available at https://ohsaa.org/tickets. Select Division III, Region 9 from the menu 500 paper pre-sale tickets available Wed, Thur, Friday (UNTIL 12 PM) in CHS Athletic Office All pre-sale tickets $8
Have a great weekend with family and friends!
Douglas Murray, Principal Grateful, Hopeful, and Optimistic
Friends and Families:
Thank you for your support, participation, kindness, and volunteer efforts over the last several months. We are truly grateful, hopeful, and optimistic that our messaging, planning, and communications will continue to demonstrate clarity to all of our stakeholders. Enclosed in the introduction to the Week in Reflection are two messages that were shared this week. A message from Dr. Hanlon We are obviously disappointed that Issue 21 was not approved by our voters, but we are committed to ensuring our schools can provide the educational opportunities our community’s children need for future success. Our volunteers worked tirelessly to communicate the key message that this bond issue was critical in order to provide our students and the community the school facilities necessary to provide effective teaching and learning for all students. We are thankful to all the volunteers that made phone calls, walked door-to-door, and organized activities to help spread the message about the importance of Issue 21. On behalf of our Board of Education, I wish to extend appreciation to the Citizens for Chardon Schools and our supporters for their continued commitment to our school district. Their efforts over the past few months were considerable in helping our community understand the conditions in which our staff teach and our students learn. Thank you also to our Facilities Advisory Committee that worked diligently over the past two and one-half years to learn about the challenges of our current school facilities and carefully evaluate master plan options before making a recommendation to our Board of Education. In the next few weeks our Facilities Advisory Committee will meet again to review the results and determine if any modifications to the overall master plan for district facilities are warranted based on the election results. Their recommendation will be presented to the Board of Education as they consider options related to a subsequent bond issue request. Our Board of Education will meet to determine next steps in relation to this election result. “It is important to understand that our facilities issues have not gone away as a result of the failure of Issue 21. We are still in a position of needing to identify significant financial resources to address our aging school facilities,” stated Madelon Horvath, President of the Chardon Board of Education. The fact of the matter is that the need persists. Our facilities are failing our children. We have to come together as a community for their sake and the sake of our long term viability. No decision has been made at this time to place another bond issue on the ballot. Sincerely, Michael P. Hanlon, Jr. , Ph.D. A message to CHS staff from Mr. Murray Friends, Coming up with the right words is difficult today. After all of the work of SO many positive people communicating the message, sharing our story, and engaging our community members---seeing the results of Issue 21 can be extremely deflating and discouraging. It can be challenging for even me to rally the team, and provide words of encouragement. We all process things differently-- but, it is important for you to know that our message has not fallen on deaf ears. Your passion has not changed. Your vision has not faltered. I am blessed to work with professionals who live the values instilled deeply inside of this community. I am blessed to collaborate with educators who prepare students for life. I am blessed to call you friends. This really stings for all of us. We are not immune to these challenges; rather- we respond with clarity. We respond with respect, dignity, and optimism for what we stand for, whom we serve, and why we stand strong in our mission. The song must continue. Learning is still our outcome and the needs to meet inside of our facilities still must be addressed. As much as we might feel weaker today--we are actually stronger...forged in strength to never give up hope and optimism. I will never wave the flag in defeat. We know our story the best, and together, I encourage you to continue inviting any person to see our story inside of our walls. There was power in the interaction with others to actually make their own decisions based on reason--rather than fallacies. I appreciate you and love serving beside you. Together, we are strong. Divided we fall into the hands of reactivity, lethargy, and complacency against our vision of education inside of our treasured story. I am encouraged with our communities' response towards electing board members who share in this vision. Thank you for your commitment. This week, the Facilities Team will meet to transition with a reflection of the E+R=O. Our response to this event will equal the outcome that we prepare for next. As we reflect--we can control the weather inside. Today still is a beautiful day and I am grateful to be inside of it with you. Thank you! Doug Great Lakes Theater Festival
Over the past two weeks, many of our students have been working with actor-teachers from the Great Lakes Theater Festival. They've worked with kids on their communication skills in Circuit of Communication, acting skills in Theater Arts, and examined The Crucible, A Raisin in the Sun, A Midsummer Night's Dream, and Julius Caesar from the lens of an actor in various ELA classes. Students were able to dive into the creative process with the help of the theater artists. As a result of their experience with the actors, the students were able to better connect their own experiences with the themes of the literature presented.
Fall Play
Title: The Westing Game
When: November 14, 15, 16 at 7:00 PM; November 17 at 2:00 pm Where: Park Auditorium Cost: $5 Students, $10 Adults Synopsis: The unsuspecting residents of Sunset Towers are summoned to the reading of a mysterious will, only to find themselves locked in a thrilling game, as they must discover who is responsible for killing an eccentric millionaire. Through blizzards, bombings and unlikely alliances, the game is on, and the only people who hold all the clues are one Westing heir and you. 
Dear Eighth Graders and Eighth Grade Parents,
We are so excited about our trip to Washington, D.C.! There is so much to look forward to, and spring is a beautiful time of year to be in our nation’s capital. School-sponsored tours are essential elements of our academic programs at Chardon High School. Our eighth-graders will have the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. on a curriculum-based overnight field trip from May 4-6, 2020. The following are the guidelines for this trip. The cost of the trip is $445. This includes all meals (except lunch Monday), lodging, and guided experiences. Payment plan: first payment November 15th ($245), second payment February 7th ($100), and third payment March 13th ($100) or full payment on November 15th. Payments can be made on Infinite Campus or a check (made out to Chardon Board of Education) through the CHS business office. All school fees (including athletic fees) must be paid prior to the second trip payment date February 7, 2020. While every effort will be made to honor room requests, CHS reserves the right to assign hotel rooms and bus assignments. Violation of our core values may eliminate eligibility for the trip. If a student’s eligibility is removed, any payments made to the tour company will not be refunded. Students and parents understand that all school rules and Chardon Local School District Board of Education Policies and Procedures are in effect. If there are any disciplinary issues on the trip, the administration reserves the right to require your child to be picked up at the parents’ or guardians’ expense. We know how excited everyone is for this awesome trip, and we really appreciate your respect for these guidelines. By signing below, you will indicate your intention to follow them. Please complete the information below by November 4, 2019, and return to Mr. Higham. Once this form is submitted, the cost of the trip will be added to your child’s school fees account on Infinite Campus. This document can be viewed in detail here. We will hold a mandatory information night for parents on November 18, 2019, at 6:00 pm. At this meeting, we will be distributing a tentative itinerary which will highlight many of the places that we will visit and more specific information regarding the needs for this trip. The itinerary is located here. Please direct all questions to douglas.higham@chardonschools.org Topper Club Awards: November 26, 2019
For the third consecutive year, the Topper Club Awards (certificate/letter/pin for 3.75 cumulative GPA and higher, in addition to recognizing the National Merit students, etc) will occur at Chardon High School during the day in an effort to properly recognize these students while demonstrating to all students what can be achieved through hard work and dedication to their academics. With that said, we will have the assembly to recognize these students for the whole student body on the morning of Tuesday, November 26th.
CHARDON HIGH SCHOOL 2019-2020
This year AC4P, NHS, Interact, and the Actively Caring Leadership class will raise funds for the 20th annual Jeremy's Kids Christmas fundraiser. This fundraiser is in memory of Jeremy Mizen, the 6-year-old son of teacher Rob Mizen, who died in a car crash on Christmas Eve in 1999. Instead of dwelling on their horrible loss and having this tragic event destroy their lives, Mr. Mizen and his wife decided that they would instead celebrate Jeremy’s life focusing on the positive aspects of his life. AC4P, NHS, Interact, and the Actively Caring Leadership class will use the raised funds to support less fortunate families in the Chardon Community. Many local families are struggling financially with giving their children gifts on Christmas. Every year the students of Chardon High School have joined together with the community to make sure relief was available to these families. Thank you for your generosity. Please make checks payable to Chardon Local Schools. (memo: Jeremy's Kids)+ Rob Mizen Chardon High School 151 Chardon Ave. Chardon Ohio, 44024 Details:
Fall AIR Test
On Wednesday, December 11, students in US Government along with several students who were contacted by Guidance will be taking the Fall AIR tests. We will be running an adjusted schedule in order to accommodate this test. Please note the start of classes on December 11th, and December 12th. All School transportation will be running at the regular times.
December 16-20, 2019
In order to fully plan for this quarter, we wanted you to have access to the Midterm Schedule in December.
Midterm Week: The purpose of this week is to meet the educational needs of our students as they prepare for midterms, finals, and project presentations. ALL classes will meet during midterm week. If a class does not have a midterm or a final, they will commence a class period. The only non-mandatory period is a study hall. Students do not need to sit in the study hall. We will provide supervision in the cafeteria for a silent study hall as needed, but attendance is not mandatory. Important Notes: --Transportation will run at the regular time in the morning and afternoon. --All academic classes will meet during the scheduled time. Dismissal will occur at 12:10 PM Tuesday - Friday. --Lunch during the week (Tuesday - Friday) will be À la carte. --Auburn students will have scheduled exams that do not impede upon their schedule. --CHS Teachers will be in teacher-based teams each day after exams. --In the case that we have a calamity day during an exam schedule, we will follow the scheduled exam day and adjust the afternoon exam time slots by adding the missed exam(s). Read this document online. PARENTS: PLEASE COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING TO ACKNOWLEDGE MIDTERM SCHEDULE. 
Please click on the link below to sign up for PT Conferences.
Thursday, November 21 (4:30-8:00 pm) Sign up here. 
Do you like to ski or snowboard? If so, consider joining the CHS Downhill Ski/Snowboard Club. This club program is open to students from grade 8 through grade 12. It will run after school for a minimum of five consecutive Tuesdays beginning January 7th. The club will be skiing at Brandywine Ski Resort. Club passes are also valid at Alpine Valley. No experience is necessary to join; both rentals and lessons are included in the club price. Students who have season passes are welcome to join and only pay the bus fee.
If your son/daughter is interested in joining, please see the attached forms for more details about registration. The first registration deadline is November 22, which is just four weeks away! All students who register by this date get a free long-sleeve ski club shirt at no additional cost! If you have any questions, please contact the adviser (Alison Fisher) at alison.fisher@chardonschools.org or have your child see Miss Fisher during the school day in room 307. Hope you consider joining us on the slopes in January! 
SUBMISSION DEADLINE for senior pictures are Friday, JANUARY 10, 2020
Requirements for your senior picture:
Submitting your senior picture:
Note: Digital submissions are much preferred and strongly recommended in order to preserve the quality of the photos. Learning Center Newsletter
Attached is the latest edition of the Learning Center Newsletter. In this issue, readers will find information on renewing their teaching license. November marks the first month teachers whose license expires in June of 2020 can renew. This newsletter contains information on the process of renewing, along with several links to valuable resources.
Need to write a new IPDP? There is a link to a document developed by the LPDC that contains several pre-written goals that can be used. Also included are links to professional development opportunities. Most are free, many are online, but all of them can count towards your license renewal as long as they align with your IDPD goals. As always, please ask if you have any questions. Piece of the Week
"Helping Hands" by Kara Connolly, Grade 12
Images of the Week
Video of the WeekThe Outcomes of 4 E's
Creating the profile of a Chardon High School graduate has been the task of educators for decades. More recently, teachers and administrators across CLSD have been working to pinpoint the fabric which weaves the foundational values, and outcomes that every student should know and be able to articulate before our students walk across the stage.
Chardon High School has phenomenal students who go out and seize the world. For many students, the goal is higher education. This has been the norm for generations. Yet, our world is ever-changing, and the needs of our world are ever-evolving. With technology, career based training, and industry credentials knocking on the doors of a high school graduate--finding a student's purpose is more and more important than the phrase "what do I want to do when I grow up." Historical data reflects that nearly 80% of graduating Chardon High School students enroll in two- and four-year colleges and universities. Yet, we notice a decrease in students maintaining that status after matriculating. We are intentionally establishing programs, enrichments, and opportunities throughout our district to emphasize the importance of soft skills, focusing on the 4 E's: Enrollment, Enlistment, Employment, and Entrepreneurship. Our goal is that each of our students will identify and develop their purpose through programs, activities, and opportunities throughout our community. College will certainly be a focus for most of our students. Yet, we have hundreds of students that could enter into a career moments after graduation that will encapsulate their purpose and provide training, salaries, and benefits that would lead them into further education through the business that they are working within. This is where the paradigm shift needs to swing. Graduates are already doing this, and it is gaining traction. There are countless industries looking for graduates that they can grow into their company. We are not just talking about machinists, and manual labor jobs. Jobs in the areas of administrative assistants, accounting, design, and innovation. Our economy is driving a need for students who are problem solvers and critical thinkers. Likewise, as we transition into a weekend in which we honor Veterans, enlistment into the armed forces is always an avenue for our young men and women to not only serve our country, but to receive training in areas that serve the purpose of our students and opening further opportunities for our students. This is the beginning of many communications about the "4E's", If you are interested in learning more or participating in our shared responsibility in raising a generation of leaders within the "4E's" please contact Mr. Murray or Dr. Klein. Reminder: School Fees
School Fees are DUE
School fees are due to Chardon Local Schools. Payable at your student's individual school. Please look at your student's Infinite Campus account under “Fees” to see what is owed for each child. All Participation fees for the Fall Season are due. DO NOT PAY WINTER Participation fees until they are posted in Infinite Campus. This takes a little time to get the final official rosters from the coaches added and adjustments made where needed. When you are looking at the fess, if something does not look right or your student has dropped a class and it is still showing, please call so that it can be corrected. If you have questions, please contact Carolyn.McBride@chardonschools.org Winter Weather
With winter just around the corner, we want to remind you of our procedures for school closing or delayed start in the event of dangerous conditions.
The decision to call off school due to inclement weather begins at approximately 3:30 AM and includes analysis of the following information:
When all of this information is gathered, the Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent of Business Affairs, and Transportation Supervisor jointly make the decision to close the schools or keep them open for students. Our objective is to make this decision no later than 5:45 AM as school buses are beginning to depart for their morning runs at that time. However, it may become necessary, in isolated cases, to make the decision after that time. Weather conditions can change abruptly, for better or for worse, but our intent is to determine that it is safe for students and staff to attend school as early as possible. Veteran's Day
At the end of World War 1, the armistice between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, became the official day to celebrate all our nation’s veterans. Originally called Armistice Day, it became Veteran’s Day after World War II. At Chardon High School, thousands of graduates have served our country for duty, honor, and love of country. We are grateful to the men and women who are proud veterans of the US Armed Services.
On Thursday, November 7, the Chardon High School wrestling team, traded their singlets for suits, in anticipation of helping local veterans with a different type of pin than the wrestlers are used to. The team was approached by the Geauga County Department on Aging, and were asked to assist in a recognition ceremony, for veterans in the area. The team helped in the setting up of the event, serving lunch, and assisting the veterans on and off the stage, where the veterans received a pin from Congressman David Joyce. The core values of community, humility, achievement and respect, were well represented among the team. Great job, gentleman. Keep up the great work, and best wishes to you, as your season kicks off with Battle in the Barn, December 5th at 11:00 a.m. Just a reminder that proceeds from this school assembly match will benefit Jeremy’s kids. THANK YOU: Girl Scout Troop 70563
A huge THANK YOU to all who came out for breakfast at the VFW on Sunday to support Girl Scout Troop 70563 Gold Awards. It was an amazing success - we served over 275 meals! The outpouring of community support is truly appreciated.
-Brigit, Maddie & Natalie AFS
American Field Service (AFS) is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world. Chardon High School has a strong relationship with AFS-- providing cultural and academic learning to countless students over the years.
This past week, AFS has contacted us asking our academic community for assistance. AFS is looking for host families – We have 2 students in temporary housing and 1 that needs to be moved due to a family change in status. If your family has an interest--please contact Barb Plishka at 440-223-2068 or Sandy Caporossi at 440-477-3922. Thank you! Topper Bistro
Parent Resources
Twitter- Follow @chs_dmurray and @chardonhs Remind 101- Text @TopperUp to the following number 81010 Chardon High School Google Calendar Chardon Athletics Sports Calendar Chardon Athletics Website Video Announcements: Link for the Morning Announcements Chardon High School: Program of Study Chardon High School Bell Schedule Google Document of our bell schedule Chardon High School Student Handbook Teacher Resources for CHS Students ( LIVE by the 1st quarter) Camp Curiosity
Stay warm out there and GO TOPPERS!
Douglas Murray, Principal Fall into Community
Ah, the beauty of fall...you really can't beat it in Ohio. Over the last seven days, the leaves have really fallen, the crisp fragrance and aroma has blossomed in the air, and the reality of the season is upon us. The decor around our homes have been adjusted to the season, and stores all around are changing...some even skipping this season. However, not a Chardon High School. Over the last week, we have celebrated Halloween, transitioned into the second quarter, and provided tours of our facility.
As an educator, curriculum maps and aligning outcomes to the standards are always in season. This week, our staff spent hours working to transition their assessments to Gradecam--allowing teachers to create assessments (which can be aligned to standards) that can be scored in seconds using a smartphone, a tablet, a document camera, or a webcam. This tool will foster immediate feedback, a student portal to help facilitate immediate test corrections in class, item analysis for our work in PLC's, and so much more! Many teachers have started using this tool in the first quarter, and students should see all of the features beginning to be implemented in the near future. Over the last seven days, I was approached by community members, other educators, and parents about how our students have been so respectful, kind, and generous of their time in the community. They asked me what we are doing to instill this response in our young adults...my response was two-fold: We have phenomenal students and families and we model our community values as a cultural expectation in our building. As a school community, we provide so much more than just curricular outcomes. Not only do we respond to each other--we respond back to our community. Our culture and climate at Chardon High School are strong and we are grateful for our strong relationship with our beautiful city. In this week's edition of the Week in Reflection, you will see tangible examples of our values in action!
Halloween Dress Down
Friday Night Football: Chardon v Madison (Thriller Halftime Show)
Dear Eighth Graders and Eighth Grade Parents,
We are so excited about our trip to Washington, D.C.! There is so much to look forward to, and spring is a beautiful time of year to be in our nation’s capital. School-sponsored tours are essential elements of our academic programs at Chardon High School. Our eighth-graders will have the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. on a curriculum-based overnight field trip from May 4-6, 2020. The following are the guidelines for this trip. The cost of the trip is $445. This includes all meals (except lunch Monday), lodging, and guided experiences. Payment plan: first payment November 15th ($245), second payment February 7th ($100), and third payment March 13th ($100) or full payment on November 15th. Payments can be made on Infinite Campus or a check (made out to Chardon Board of Education) through the CHS business office. All school fees (including athletic fees) must be paid prior to the second trip payment date February 7, 2020. While every effort will be made to honor room requests, CHS reserves the right to assign hotel rooms and bus assignments. Violation of our core values may eliminate eligibility for the trip. If a student’s eligibility is removed, any payments made to the tour company will not be refunded. Students and parents understand that all school rules and Chardon Local School District Board of Education Policies and Procedures are in effect. If there are any disciplinary issues on the trip, the administration reserves the right to require your child to be picked up at the parents’ or guardians’ expense. We know how excited everyone is for this awesome trip, and we really appreciate your respect for these guidelines. By signing below, you will indicate your intention to follow them. Please complete the information below by November 4, 2019, and return to Mr. Higham. Once this form is submitted, the cost of the trip will be added to your child’s school fees account on Infinite Campus. This document can be viewed in detail here. We will hold a mandatory information night for parents on November 18, 2019, at 6:00 pm. At this meeting, we will be distributing a tentative itinerary which will highlight many of the places that we will visit and more specific information regarding the needs for this trip. The itinerary is located here. Please direct all questions to douglas.higham@chardonschools.org 
In order to fully plan for this quarter, we wanted you to have access to the Midterm Schedule in December.
Midterm Week: The purpose of this week is to meet the educational needs of our students as they prepare for midterms, finals, and project presentations. ALL classes will meet during midterm week. If a class does not have a midterm or a final, they will commence a class period. The only non-mandatory period is a study hall. Students do not need to sit in the study hall. We will provide supervision in the cafeteria for a silent study hall as needed, but attendance is not mandatory. Important Notes: --Transportation will run at the regular time in the morning and afternoon. --All academic classes will meet during the scheduled time. Dismissal will occur at 12:10 PM Tuesday - Friday. --Lunch during the week (Tuesday - Friday) will be À la carte. --Auburn students will have scheduled exams that do not impede upon their schedule. --CHS Teachers will be in teacher-based teams each day after exams. --In the case that we have a calamity day during an exam schedule, we will follow the scheduled exam day and adjust the afternoon exam time slots by adding the missed exam(s). Read this document online. PARENTS: PLEASE COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING TO ACKNOWLEDGE MIDTERM SCHEDULE. 
Whether you are planning on college, a technical school, the military, or you are just not sure yet, the ASVAB Career Exploration Program can put you on the right path towards a satisfying career.
The ASVAB Career Exploration Program can help you take steps now toward finding a career that’s right for you. You can benefit from the ASVAB CEP regardless of your plans for after high school. CHS will be offering the ASVAB on Wednesday, November 13th at 7:30 am. Students in grades 10-12 can sign up in Guidance to take advantage of this exclusive career exploration today! Promotional Video https://www.asvabprogram.com/videos/asvab_cep_overview.m4v www.asvabprogram.com 
Please click on the link below to sign up for PT Conferences.
Thursday, November 21 (4:30-8:00 pm) Sign up here. Images of the Week
8th grade AHLI trip to the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds to learn about wind power and recent environmental impacts on honey bees.
Piece of the Week
Jolie Falkenstein, Grade 9, "Still Life"
Do you like to ski or snowboard? If so, consider joining the CHS Downhill Ski/Snowboard Club. This club program is open to students from grade 8 through grade 12. It will run after school for a minimum of five consecutive Tuesdays beginning January 7th. The club will be skiing at Brandywine Ski Resort. Club passes are also valid at Alpine Valley. No experience is necessary to join; both rentals and lessons are included in the club price. Students who have season passes are welcome to join and only pay the bus fee.
If your son/daughter is interested in joining, please see the attached forms for more details about registration. The first registration deadline is November 22, which is just four weeks away! All students who register by this date get a free long-sleeve ski club shirt at no additional cost! If you have any questions, please contact the adviser (Alison Fisher) at alison.fisher@chardonschools.org or have your child see Miss Fisher during the school day in room 307. Hope you consider joining us on the slopes in January! 
SUBMISSION DEADLINE for senior pictures are Friday, JANUARY 10, 2020
Requirements for your senior picture:
Submitting your senior picture:
Note: Digital submissions are much preferred and strongly recommended in order to preserve the quality of the photos. 
The MCORE Foundation to Provide Cardiac Screening Opportunity for Chardon High School on November 6, 2019
Why Preventative Heart Screenings for Youth Ages 12-22? Chardon High School Parents and Community, Each year over 400,000 people are affected by sudden cardiac arrest. Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is not a heart attack but an electrical malfunction of the heart that causes it to stop suddenly. Sudden cardiac arrest is often called the silent killer as you or your child could have an abnormality that goes undetected and without any recognizable symptoms until it is too late. The mission of the MCORE Foundation is providing communities with education about sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), symptoms and family history in hopes to prevent these tragedies from happening in our communities. Our education program works in conjunction with a high level mobile cardiac unit that provides preventative baseline heart screenings for children ages 12-22. Our mobile screening unit partners with schools, hospitals and foundations to provide convenient and dependable heart screenings that otherwise would not be available. Our mobile cardiac unit will be at Chardon High School on Wednesday, November 6, 2019 All MCORE Foundation screenings include: • An ECG and limited Echo test performed by registered cardiac sonographers • Results read by our team of pediatric and general cardiologists • Images stored within your secured account for future access or to send to your medical provider. Each test is approximately 10-12 minutes and you may use your healthcare spending account or flex care spending account for payment. *Should you require financial assistance please contact us. To learn more about the MCORE Foundation, get involved with our mission, or to donate please visit us at: www.mcorefoundation.org Chardon High School Heart Screening Screening Location will be in the Learning Center Conference Room Time: 8am – 4pm When: Wednesday, November 6, 2019 Cost: $79 To schedule your screening time please click https://mcorefoundation.org/scheduler_schedule/?school=162 or www.mcorefoundation.org, create an account and choose Chardon High School. If you have questions or need help registering please contact mCORE: 866-382-2319. Pancake Breakfast!
The girls from Girl Scout Troop 70563 have been volunteering at the VFW spring pancake breakfasts for years. Now they are seniors and working on their gold awards. As you know, fundraising for the projects is a big job - as a thank you for all of the years of volunteering, the VFW has graciously offered to host an off-season pancake breakfast on Sunday, November 3, with all proceeds benefitting these remarkable young women.
The three seniors have all chosen to spend their 80 hour Gold Award projects to better Chardon Local Schools: Brigit Morgan - renovating portions of the CMS band room Maddie McDonald - installing a handicap railing at Chardon Memorial Field Natalie Fullerman - building a reading hut at Munson Elementary 
Parent Resources
Twitter- Follow @chs_dmurray and @chardonhs Remind 101- Text @TopperUp to the following number 81010 Chardon High School Google Calendar Chardon Athletics Sports Calendar Chardon Athletics Website Video Announcements: Link for the Morning Announcements Chardon High School: Program of Study Chardon High School Bell Schedule Google Document of our bell schedule Chardon High School Student Handbook Teacher Resources for CHS Students ( LIVE by the 1st quarter) Topper Bistro
Have a great weekend with family and friends! Stay warm!
Douglas Murray, Principal Reflecting on the Quarter
I am so proud of our students and our teachers' efforts to focus on the eminent core value of achievement. Together, we will continue to refine what we do by analyzing how we can continue to move from good to great! Over the past two years, we have demonstrated strong success stories of mastery against the standards. For the second consecutive year, our students have met the mark of high achievement for all students where learning is the most important work!
Last year, the following data was shared: Avg GPA for Q1= 3.20 Seniors Avg =3.18 Juniors Avg= 3.20 Sophomores Avg= 3.14 Freshman Avg= 3.23 Eighth Grade Avg= 3.25 We are proud to share the results from the current completed quarter (1st quarter). The outcomes demonstrate great achievements at first glance. When you dig deeper into the data, we are able to see trends to help us gauge where we as educators need to celebrate, and where we can show even greater growth. We have to pause and celebrate the work of our teachers and our students. Together, they have much to celebrate. The work of our mission is never complete, and the work to align standards, strategies, and assessments is an ever-evolving task to help students master learning outcomes to be successful for future-readiness in the 4 E's: Enrollment, Enlistment, Employment, and Entrepreneurship.
The compass, road map, and GPS to all that we do is our mission statement which is enhanced through the magnifying lens of our core values. All of the outcomes in which we gauge learners filters through the creativity, communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and community connections that all of our educators emphasize in the day to day interactions with students. Through this daily encounter of learning, our students become exposed to programs, supports, and pathways that help guide them to find their individual purpose. Over the last several weeks, I have shared our state report card and school profile. These measures help identify the story that we are creating at Chardon High School. Over the last year, we have placed so much attention on refining the outcomes of our mission. Whereas the culture and climate at Chardon High School remains an essential focus---our targeted learning outcomes, and educational strategies help gauge all learners to learn each standard. Furthermore, we have spent years on our core values that become the vehicle for all students to feel safe, successful, and engaged.
The Why
The mission of Chardon School is High Achievement for ALL students where learning is our most important work. This lens of learning is mastered when students and staff focus on learning as the sum of all of the experiences that students engage in. There are seven periods in a day. As a teacher, we believe that the time that we have is priceless each period. As a student, every class plays a role in the development of the child towards the mission. No class is greater than the other. It is the learning that matters the most. We are further able to focus our outcomes on the end goal. The most important learning that any student can achieve (within their high school experience) is finding his or her purpose. The desire for all educators is that all of our students can determine their purpose within an outcome of becoming employed right out of school, enrolling in a college/university, enlisting in the armed forces, or using their abilities and passion as a young entrepreneur. The How Our students and educators spend years establishing the foundation of their learning within this blueprint. This map demonstrates the direction that all learners follow. This is where the work of the educator really comes into action. The educator moves from the sage on the stage to the facilitating tour guide. Professional Learning Communities, aligning standards, defining instructional strategies, preparing common formative assessments, and most importantly-developing meaningful relationships with students. It is through deep development of creating goals, and student choices that guide all learners on the map of learning. The What Our students love to live in the what. Who wouldn't? It is through these experiences that students begin to find their way and live their purpose. Students and staff engage in soft skills, or what I call the essential skills. They are learning many ways to communicate, innovate, and problem solve. They are learning about becoming a young leader, understanding their place in this grand world, and planning for their ideas as young entrepreneurs. Students and staff engage in mentoring students and developing new ideas and relationships in our established brain breaks. Teachers are creating opportunities inside of AP and CCP courses along with career planning at Auburn Career Center. The mission and vision of Chardon is clear. Our destination hasn't changed. How you get there is your choice. Feel free to watch my reflection from the morning announcements on Thursday. 8th Grade DC Trip: May 4-6, 2020
Dear Eighth Graders and Eighth Grade Parents,
We are so excited about our trip to Washington, D.C.! There is so much to look forward to, and spring is a beautiful time of year to be in our nation’s capital. School-sponsored tours are essential elements of our academic programs at Chardon High School. Our eighth-graders will have the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. on a curriculum-based overnight field trip from May 4-6, 2020. The following are the guidelines for this trip. The cost of the trip is $445. This includes all meals (except lunch Monday), lodging, and guided experiences. Payment plan: first payment November 15th ($245), second payment February 7th ($100), and third payment March 13th ($100) or full payment on November 15th. Payments can be made on Infinite Campus or a check (made out to Chardon Board of Education) through the CHS business office. All school fees (including athletic fees) must be paid prior to the second trip payment date February 7, 2020. While every effort will be made to honor room requests, CHS reserves the right to assign hotel rooms and bus assignments. Violation of our core values may eliminate eligibility for the trip. If a student’s eligibility is removed, any payments made to the tour company will not be refunded. Students and parents understand that all school rules and Chardon Local School District Board of Education Policies and Procedures are in effect. If there are any disciplinary issues on the trip, the administration reserves the right to require your child to be picked up at the parents’ or guardians’ expense. We know how excited everyone is for this awesome trip, and we really appreciate your respect for these guidelines. By signing below, you will indicate your intention to follow them. Please complete the information below by November 4, 2019, and return to Mr. Higham. Once this form is submitted, the cost of the trip will be added to your child’s school fees account on Infinite Campus. This document can be viewed in detail here. We will hold a mandatory information night for parents on November 18, 2019, at 6:00 pm. At this meeting, we will be distributing a tentative itinerary which will highlight many of the places that we will visit and more specific information regarding the needs for this trip. The itinerary is located here. Please direct all questions to douglas.higham@chardonschools.org Midterm Schedule
In order to fully plan for this quarter, we wanted you to have access to the Midterm Schedule in December.
Midterm Week: The purpose of this week is to meet the educational needs of our students as they prepare for midterms, finals, and project presentations. ALL classes will meet during midterm week. If a class does not have a midterm or a final, they will commence a class period. The only non-mandatory period is a study hall. Students do not need to sit in the study hall. We will provide supervision in the cafeteria for a silent study hall as needed, but attendance is not mandatory. Important Notes: --Transportation will run at the regular time in the morning and afternoon. --All academic classes will meet during the scheduled time. Dismissal will occur at 12:10 PM Tuesday - Friday. --Lunch during the week (Tuesday - Friday) will be À la carte. --Auburn students will have scheduled exams that do not impede upon their schedule. --CHS Teachers will be in teacher-based teams each day after exams. --In the case that we have a calamity day during an exam schedule, we will follow the scheduled exam day and adjust the afternoon exam time slots by adding the missed exam(s). Read this pdf online. PARENTS: PLEASE COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING TO ACKNOWLEDGE MIDTERM SCHEDULE. AP Exam Fees
College Board changed the timeline from a Spring registration to Fall registration. Our school counselors have been trying to make sure that students and parents are aware of this change in practice. Mr. Hurlbut has gone into every AP course to assist students within the College Board website.
AP Exam Registration fees are due November 1st. AP Exam fees have been added to your School Fees within Infinite Campus. Students can pay these AP Exam fees through the online portal or in person with Mrs. McBride. Checks should be made out to "Chardon BOE." Students who qualify for Free and Reduced Lunch are eligible for fee reductions through the College Board and the Ohio Department of Education. If you have questions or concerns in regards to these exam fees, please reach out to Tim Hurlbut at timothy.hurlbut@chardonschools.org. ASVAB
Whether you are planning on college, a technical school, the military, or you are just not sure yet, the ASVAB Career Exploration Program can put you on the right path towards a satisfying career.
The ASVAB Career Exploration Program can help you take steps now toward finding a career that’s right for you. You can benefit from the ASVAB CEP regardless of your plans for after high school. CHS will be offering the ASVAB on Wednesday, November 13th at 7:30 am. Students in grades 10-12 can sign up in Guidance to take advantage of this exclusive career exploration today! Promotional Video https://www.asvabprogram.com/videos/asvab_cep_overview.m4v www.asvabprogram.com Parent-Teacher Conferences
Please click on the link below to sign up for PT Conferences.
Thursday, November 21 (4:30-8:00 pm) Sign up here. Piece of the Week
Coffee cup sketch by Jackson Perry
Grade 11 This piece and many more are for sale at Buckeye Chocolate! Images of the Week
Geauga Growth Partnership
Students in Mr. Herner's CCP Introduction to Business classes attended the Geauga Growth Partnership Entrepreneur Success Breakfast at Patterson Family Fruit Farm on October 18th. They had doughnuts and cider with area business owners and state and county leaders while hearing from 5th and 6th generation farm and business owners. The Pattersons shared their HR practices, innovations over the years, and future plans for the business. This was a valuable "real world" experience for these business students...and the Honey Crisp apples they went home with were delicious!
Full Sail University
Kirstie Fitzpatrick, Regional Outreach Representative from Full Sail University, stopped by the Technology classes on Wednesday, October 23. Kirstie spent time explaining the opportunities offered to students who enroll in Full Sail University, which is a school in Florida that offers degrees in Entertainment, Media, Arts, and Technology. Students got the chance to use iPads and software of special interest for each class. Period 2, MultiMedia students, experienced stop-motion animation. Students worked in groups to create their own stop-motion animation movie, which were viewed by the students in class. Period 4 students, the Game and App Design class, got to play Jelly Juggle for five minutes with a prize going to the student with the highest score. After playing, students got busy designing a game of their own. Students in Period 6, Web Design and Development, learned about the business of entertainment. Using the iPads, they got to simulate a unique money-making idea for Coachella, the annual music festival. Students made choices on who their target audience is, how much to spend on advertising, and how much to charge for the special experience they came up with. Many were surprised at the enormous profits generated by their entrepreneurial ideas.
Video of the WeekSki Club
Do you like to ski or snowboard? If so, consider joining the CHS Downhill Ski/Snowboard Club. This club program is open to students from grade 8 through grade 12. It will run after school for a minimum of five consecutive Tuesdays beginning January 7th. The club will be skiing at Brandywine Ski Resort. Club passes are also valid at Alpine Valley. No experience is necessary to join; both rentals and lessons are included in the club price. Students who have season passes are welcome to join and only pay the bus fee.
If your son/daughter is interested in joining, please see the attached forms for more details about registration. The first registration deadline is November 22, which is just four weeks away! All students who register by this date get a free long-sleeve ski club shirt at no additional cost! If you have any questions, please contact the adviser (Alison Fisher) at alison.fisher@chardonschools.org or have your child see Miss Fisher during the school day in room 307. Hope you consider joining us on the slopes in January! Yearbook: Senior Pictures
SUBMISSION DEADLINE for senior pictures are Friday, JANUARY 10, 2020
Requirements for your senior picture:
Submitting your senior picture:
Note: Digital submissions are much preferred and strongly recommended in order to preserve the quality of the photos. Senior Tributes
Tours of CHS
In the interest of providing community members with an up-close view of the building-related challenges at Chardon High School, the Chardon Local School District extends an invitation to all interested community members to attend a guided tour of the high school (151 Chardon Avenue).
These are open-to-the-public events with opportunity for Q&A:
For those who have online access, facility photos can be found on the District's Twitter and Facebook pages under hashtag #TopperFacilities. We also invite you to visit the Bond Issue 21/Facilities Plan page of the District's website (under Resources), which includes a recently expanded FAQs document for common questions pertaining to Bond Issue 21. Questions? Facility-related questions can be directed to facilities@chardonschools.org. Thank you for your interest and for sharing the tour dates. We hope to see you on the 26th! MCore Heart Screenings
The MCORE Foundation to Provide Cardiac Screening Opportunity for Chardon High School on November 6, 2019
Why Preventative Heart Screenings for Youth Ages 12-22? Chardon High School Parents and Community, Each year over 400,000 people are affected by sudden cardiac arrest. Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is not a heart attack but an electrical malfunction of the heart that causes it to stop suddenly. Sudden cardiac arrest is often called the silent killer as you or your child could have an abnormality that goes undetected and without any recognizable symptoms until it is too late. The mission of the MCORE Foundation is providing communities with education about sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), symptoms and family history in hopes to prevent these tragedies from happening in our communities. Our education program works in conjunction with a high level mobile cardiac unit that provides preventative baseline heart screenings for children ages 12-22. Our mobile screening unit partners with schools, hospitals and foundations to provide convenient and dependable heart screenings that otherwise would not be available. Our mobile cardiac unit will be at Chardon High School on Wednesday, November 6, 2019 All MCORE Foundation screenings include: • An ECG and limited Echo test performed by registered cardiac sonographers • Results read by our team of pediatric and general cardiologists • Images stored within your secured account for future access or to send to your medical provider. Each test is approximately 10-12 minutes and you may use your healthcare spending account or flex care spending account for payment. *Should you require financial assistance please contact us. To learn more about the MCORE Foundation, get involved with our mission, or to donate please visit us at: www.mcorefoundation.org Chardon High School Heart Screening Screening Location will be in the Learning Center Conference Room Time: 8am – 4pm When: Wednesday, November 6, 2019 Cost: $79 To schedule your screening time please click https://mcorefoundation.org/scheduler_schedule/?school=162 or www.mcorefoundation.org, create an account and choose Chardon High School. If you have questions or need help registering please contact mCORE: 866-382-2319. Chardon Goes to the Musicals
Back by popular demand, Chardon Goes to the Musicals is selling tickets for the upcoming season. Please include the attached two fliers in your newsletters - Irving Berlin's White Christmas and Mean Girls. Both have money due to Munson PTO by Tuesday, October 29, so there is no need to advertise after that.
Thank you in advance for another year of helping to promote the arts at Playhouse Square, the second largest theater district outside of Broadway. Chardon Goes to the Musicals has sold over 500 tickets. A reminder this is not a fundraiser, but simply a way for community members to obtain tickets at discounted prices. Coming Soon: Pancake Breakfast!
The girls from Girl Scout Troop 70563 have been volunteering at the VFW spring pancake breakfasts for years. Now they are seniors and working on their gold awards. As you know, fundraising for the projects is a big job - as a thank you for all of the years of volunteering, the VFW has graciously offered to host an off-season pancake breakfast on Sunday, November 3, with all proceeds benefitting these remarkable young women.
The three seniors have all chosen to spend their 80 hour Gold Award projects to better Chardon Local Schools: Brigit Morgan - renovating portions of the CMS band room Maddie McDonald - installing a handicap railing at Chardon Memorial Field Natalie Fullerman - building a reading hut at Munson Elementary Parent Resources
Twitter- Follow @chs_dmurray and @chardonhs
Remind 101- Text @TopperUp to the following number 81010 Chardon High School Google Calendar Chardon Athletics Sports Calendar Chardon Athletics Website Video Announcements: Link for the Morning Announcements Chardon High School: Program of Study Chardon High School Bell Schedule Google Document of our bell schedule Chardon High School Student Handbook Teacher Resources for CHS Students ( LIVE by the 1st quarter) Topper Bistro
The latest edition of Topper TalkThe Quality Profile
Have a beautiful weekend with family and friends!
Douglas Murray, Principal The Finish line is the beginning of a whole new race
64 consecutive days.
1,536 hours 92, 160 minutes 5, 529,600 seconds 1/4 of a school year From your perspective, how did your son(s) or daughter(s) succeed and make strides in their performance this quarter? What worked? What struggles did you notice? How was their time used? Chances are if you are reading this...you truly care about the performance of your children. We all do. So as you reflect on the closure of one quarter, let's reflect on a few essential questions. Describe your goals for the quarter, how you made them visible, and how they were communicated to others? Articulate the steps that you managed your time for school, sports, work, family and family time. Reflect on how you communicated to your teachers when you were stuck, confused, or needed help. How did you celebrate success? Goals are critical. They keep you focused on what’s important, and allow you to make the best use of your 24 hours each day. When tackled correctly, they force you out of your comfort zone and help you grow more than you would without them. Just by setting a goal, you are taking an active role in driving new and better results in your life. What could be more important than that? Teaching our teenagers to set goals effectively can be life-changing. However, as we teach goal-setting to our children, we need to make sure we’re showing them how to use goals to have the greatest possible positive impact on their lives. Here are six strategies adapted and annotated from an article- 7 Mindsets: Goal Setting for Teens for smart goal setting for teens that can help them maximize the potential of their lives: 1. It must be on their terms The most important thing to remember is that these are their goals, not yours. One of the biggest mistakes we can make as parents is wanting our children to live in their images and in alignment with their definitions of success. In doing so, parents can unconsciously push their children down disingenuous paths that can result in reduced success and meaning from their goals. 2. Connect their goals to the ultimate currency… happiness! What we want for our children is happiness on their terms. Happiness can be defined as finding joy, gratitude, love, or pleasure in the simplest of things...to the most luxurious things. Simplifying happiness comes down to the most sacred thing that we all experience: Time. Finding time is based upon organizing our day in simple things: breaking down barriers to learn, finding success, and celebrating life. 3. Help them frame their lives Every year, we ask students to share their dreams and goals. We can hear it now..."what do you want to be when you grow up". To fully encapsulate we have to refine the lens to our goals, purpose, talents, and passions. Due to the world that we all live in, it’s easy to get very narrow with our vision for life and lose sight of some crucial components to our happiness. One of the first things you want to do is help your children frame and shape life in simple ways. As the first teacher, we should help define their priorities, which might include things like family, friends, faith, health, education, profession, wealth and social impact. We should ask them to consider all these areas as they think about and plan for the future, so they can set goals that will provide the greatest benefit to them. 4. Teach them to dream big but play small Teaching our children that goals are steps that we take on the path to our dreams is very important. The things we measure most often improve in our lives, so we must help our children set goals that are specific and measurable. For example, setting a goal to get straight A’s is much less powerful than a goal to use Cornell note-taking to prepare for each course... Remember that success is never one huge leap. It is almost always a succession of hundreds or thousands of tiny steps forward… and most likely with a few steps backward along the way. The greatest replicator of success is success. It’s both easy and common to give up on goals – and, therefore, dreams – if they’re too lofty or far away. It is really important to set goals that are attainable. The sense of gratification that students get from accomplishing small yet meaningful goals will help sustain the energy and belief as they move towards greater accomplishments. 5. They need to take stock along the way Setting goals can be a double-edged sword. It can drive purposeful action in our lives and allow us to achieve more over a shorter period of time. However, we need to be careful with ourselves and with our children, because goals can also be a source of anxiety. All of us have the tendency to create a hyper-focus on future circumstances. This can produce an “I’ll be happy when…” mentality, when what we want is to find inner happiness in this moment. With this awareness in mind, try to intertwine the process of goal-setting with an ongoing habit of recognizing existing successes and accomplishments. The present should never be sacrificed for the future, and goals should simply be tools to get the most out of the time we have. 6. Make goal-setting as engaging as possible We all know that, when working with teens, we’re competing with a constant barrage of distractions – video games, social media, and high school relationships. This process is predicated on patience and self-discipline, but we need to change it up a bit sometimes to help get the process started. We all want what’s best for our kids. Teaching them to think in terms of setting and accomplishing goals will help them become their own best sources for fulfillment, and provide the recognition that they control the outcomes in their lives. Through smart goal setting for teens, we can give our children the most important gift any parent can give: the ability to thrive in life without us.
7 Mindsets. "Goal Setting For Teens." 7 Mindsets. 7 Jun. 2016. Web. 17 Oct. 2019. <https://7mindsets.com/smart-goal-setting-for-teens/>
Fall Concert
The CHS Choirs presented their fall concert on Wednesday, Oct. 16th titled "Please Stay". The concert presented themes around mental health. Music can often express ideas and emotions that are otherwise hard to communicate. During this quarter, the choirs have been working on music that allows for the expression of sorrow, providing comfort, and aim to uplift the singers and the audience. We as a community depend on each other to lift each other up and provide support and understanding during difficult times. Students had opportunities to share life's stresses, and ways that they overcome challenging times. Mental health statistics can be daunting, but with self-awareness and awareness of those in our midst, we can find health. Students have been encouraged to seek help, ask for support, and to approach others with compassion. Congratulations to the 130 CHS choir students for their passionate and meaningful performance! Special thanks to Mr. Streiff who does such a phenomenal job preparing our kids! Enjoy some of the rehearsal videos recorded hours before the show, along with Mr. Bandiera's video posted on Twitter.
AP Exam Fees
College Board changed the timeline from a Spring registration to Fall registration. Our school counselors have been trying to make sure that students and parents are aware of this change in practice. Mr. Hurlbut has gone into every AP course to assist students within the College Board website.
AP Exam Registration fees are due November 1st. AP Exam fees have been added to your School Fees within Infinite Campus. Students can pay these AP Exam fees through the online portal or in person with Mrs. McBride. Checks should be made out to "Chardon BOE." Students who qualify for Free and Reduced Lunch are eligible for fee reductions through the College Board and the Ohio Department of Education. If you have questions or concerns in regards to these exam fees, please reach out to Tim Hurlbut at timothy.hurlbut@chardonschools.org. ASVAB
Whether you are planning on college, a technical school, the military, or you are just not sure yet, the ASVAB Career Exploration Program can put you on the right path towards a satisfying career.
The ASVAB Career Exploration Program can help you take steps now toward finding a career that’s right for you. You can benefit from the ASVAB CEP regardless of your plans for after high school. CHS will be offering the ASVAB on Wednesday, November 13th at 7:30 am. Students in grades 10-12 can sign up in Guidance to take advantage of this exclusive career exploration today! Promotional Video https://www.asvabprogram.com/videos/asvab_cep_overview.m4v www.asvabprogram.com MathCounts Information for Chardon H.S.
Do you enjoy working on challenging puzzles? Do you enjoy working with others to problem solve? Would you like the opportunity to represent Chardon Schools in a Local, State or National Math Competition?
If so, then MathCounts is for you! MathCounts is a national program that provides students in grades 6-8 the opportunity to compete in live, in-person contests against and alongside their peers. The Chardon High and Middle School MathCounts Club will begin meeting once a week starting in October. The Math Counts group is looking for 8th grade students and their friends who are interested in working together in groups of four to solve challenging puzzles. Don’t worry if you are a group of 1, 2 or 3, if you love solving math problems, we will find a group for you! If you are interested in joining MathCounts, please see Mr. Francis or Mrs. Mysyk at Chardon M.S. or contact them via email to sign up. Here is a link to the Math Counts website just as FYI: https://www.mathcounts.org/ Parent-Teacher Conferences
Please click on the link below to sign up for PT Conferences.
Tuesday, October 22 (4:30-8:30 pm) Thursday, November 21 (4:30-8:00 pm) Sign up here. Piece of the Week
"Pomme" by Christen Niedzielski, Grade 12
Images of the Week CHS teachers Victoria Eby, Al Herner and Heather Biernacki get the "scoop" on employment opportunities during the tour of Best Sand in Geauga County.
The NEOEA day tour of local Geauga County businesses
Speaking with employees at Great Lakes Cheese, St. Gobain Crystals, Geauga University Hospital, Geauga Park District and Best Sand was a valuable experience for the educators who attended the Geauga ESC, Geauga Growth Partnership, & Ohio Means Jobs tour of local Geauga County businesses on NEOEA day. Representatives from Human Resources, and managers from several departments took time to explain the skills and qualities they want to see in high school graduates who apply for entry level jobs. The opportunities are plentiful for students who graduate with strong mechanical skills, and video gaming experience. Students who exhibit soft skills such as punctuality, communication, collaboration, a desire to learn, enthusiasm for the work and loyalty to the company can go far working in these local industries. Many offer higher than minimum wage to new hires, and the chance to move up in the company is available. Great Lakes Cheese is expanding and expects to hire 200-400 new employees within the year. While automation has certainly impacted the workforce, opportunities are still abundant as long as the person seeking employment has the right skills and mindset to be successful.
French Club took a field trip (last weekend) to the Cleveland Art Museum and the West Side Market.
Video of the WeekYearbook: Senior Pictures
SUBMISSION DEADLINE for senior pictures are Friday, JANUARY 10, 2020
Requirements for your senior picture:
Submitting your senior picture:
Note: Digital submissions are much preferred and strongly recommended in order to preserve the quality of the photos. Senior TributesTours of CHS
In the interest of providing community members with an up-close view of the building-related challenges at Chardon High School, the Chardon Local School District extends an invitation to all interested community members to attend a guided tour of the high school (151 Chardon Avenue).
These are open-to-the-public events with opportunity for Q&A:
For those who have online access, facility photos can be found on the District's Twitter and Facebook pages under hashtag #TopperFacilities. We also invite you to visit the Bond Issue 21/Facilities Plan page of the District's website (under Resources), which includes a recently expanded FAQs document for common questions pertaining to Bond Issue 21. Questions? Facility-related questions can be directed to facilities@chardonschools.org. Thank you for your interest and for sharing the tour dates. We hope to see you on the 19th or 26th! MCore Heart Screenings
The MCORE Foundation to Provide Cardiac Screening Opportunity for Chardon High School on November 6, 2019
Why Preventative Heart Screenings for Youth Ages 12-22? Chardon High School Parents and Community, Each year over 400,000 people are affected by sudden cardiac arrest. Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is not a heart attack but an electrical malfunction of the heart that causes it to stop suddenly. Sudden cardiac arrest is often called the silent killer as you or your child could have an abnormality that goes undetected and without any recognizable symptoms until it is too late. The mission of the MCORE Foundation is providing communities with education about sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), symptoms and family history in hopes to prevent these tragedies from happening in our communities. Our education program works in conjunction with a high level mobile cardiac unit that provides preventative baseline heart screenings for children ages 12-22. Our mobile screening unit partners with schools, hospitals and foundations to provide convenient and dependable heart screenings that otherwise would not be available. Our mobile cardiac unit will be at Chardon High School on Wednesday, November 6, 2019 All MCORE Foundation screenings include: • An ECG and limited Echo test performed by registered cardiac sonographers • Results read by our team of pediatric and general cardiologists • Images stored within your secured account for future access or to send to your medical provider. Each test is approximately 10-12 minutes and you may use your healthcare spending account or flex care spending account for payment. *Should you require financial assistance please contact us. To learn more about the MCORE Foundation, get involved with our mission, or to donate please visit us at: www.mcorefoundation.org Chardon High School Heart Screening Screening Location will be in the Learning Center Conference Room Time: 8am – 4pm When: Wednesday, November 6, 2019 Cost: $79 To schedule your screening time please click https://mcorefoundation.org/scheduler_schedule/?school=162 or www.mcorefoundation.org, create an account and choose Chardon High School. If you have questions or need help registering please contact mCORE: 866-382-2319. Halloween Costumes
Several students have asked me about Halloween. I felt that it was important to share this communication with you now as you prepare for lessons and student experiences.
Thursday, October 31 is Halloween. However, with all of the excitement leading into the week- the Chardon Crazies and the CHS Administration are moving the traditional costume day to Friday, October 25 to align with the theme for the night. This is has been the plan for the last several years. Our students have traditionally dressed in appropriate costumes at school for the day. All Students will be permitted to dress this year, as long as the outfit properly follows the guidelines below. Staff and administration will be extremely diligent to ensure that all costumes are school appropriate and not a distraction to other students in their classes. Some things to consider when creating your costume:
On Thursday, October 31, students will dress in regular attire and NOT in costume. Students may certainly dress in Halloween shirts, sweatshirts, etc on this day. Chardon Goes to the Musicals
Back by popular demand, Chardon Goes to the Musicals is selling tickets for the upcoming season. Please include the attached two fliers in your newsletters - Irving Berlin's White Christmas and Mean Girls. Both have money due to Munson PTO by Tuesday, October 29, so there is no need to advertise after that.
Thank you in advance for another year of helping to promote the arts at Playhouse Square, the second largest theater district outside of Broadway. Chardon Goes to the Musicals has sold over 500 tickets. A reminder this is not a fundraiser, but simply a way for community members to obtain tickets at discounted prices. Coming Soon: Pancake Breakfast!
The girls from Girl Scout Troop 70563 have been volunteering at the VFW spring pancake breakfasts for years. Now they are seniors and working on their gold awards. As you know, fundraising for the projects is a big job - as a thank you for all of the years of volunteering, the VFW has graciously offered to host an off-season pancake breakfast on Sunday, November 3, with all proceeds benefitting these remarkable young women.
The three seniors have all chosen to spend their 80 hour Gold Award projects to better Chardon Local Schools: Brigit Morgan - renovating portions of the CMS band room Maddie McDonald - installing a handicap railing at Chardon Memorial Field Natalie Fullerman - building a reading hut at Munson Elementary In Closing: A Note that ALL student Received from me via email
I have spent the past twenty years as an educator. This year just might be the most invigorating and challenging at the same time.
Why is it so invigorating? Maybe it is because we spent so much time preparing for this year and now we are able to see everything come to fruition. Maybe it is related to all of the activities that we have designed for students. What strikes me the most is the number of students that we are able to assist in the journey. I really love working with students and helping them find their purpose in life. Every single one of you will eventually graduate and I hope that through the courses and experiences at CHS-- your journey will help you find your purpose in life. I believe in each of you and I know that everyone has a story along the way. We are closing out the first quarter...this is a time to assess your goals and outcomes. I will be the first to tell you that grades are not the "tell-all" to school. Learning is what matters the most. Yet, our country places so much emphasis on the mark in a grade book. Certainly, having a positive mark in the grade book helps out in many ways. It helps your motivation, relationships, and may even keep you from being grounded. Grades can get you places...but learning takes you places where grades can't take you. For me, I was just your average 3.0 Chardon High Student...but, I was involved in so many activities in school. I also had a story. Life wasn't perfect for me. I have faced many situations in my life that were difficult. Yet, I dug deep to focus on finding my purpose. I didn't have a principal that wrote me emails. I have felt just about every emotion that you have. Look at me now--several college degrees later and numerous experiences brought me back as principal of CHS. Anything is possible if you put the time in. We all find ourselves at various plots on the graph of life. The purpose of this email is to remind you that we care deeply for your success and we hope that you have taken the time to see the goodness in you; in others. We are at the first stage of a four-part race. If you are satisfied with the outcome of the first quarter--keep striving for greatness. If you have experienced some victories and losses this quarter--keep striving. If you have more losses than victories--keep striving. You got this! Your teachers, counselors, and principals will always be one of your biggest fans! Your teachers will always be there for you--take the time to continue building your relationships with them. They care so deeply for you! If you ever need them to assist you--just ask. Reflect on this quarter and continue to strive for where you want to be. We will always guide you with your courses, time management skills, and social-emotional needs. Make today count! 
Parent Resources
Twitter- Follow @chs_dmurray and @chardonhs
Remind 101- Text @TopperUp to the following number 81010 Chardon High School Google Calendar Chardon Athletics Sports Calendar Chardon Athletics Website Video Announcements: Link for the Morning Announcements Chardon High School: Program of Study Chardon High School Bell Schedule Google Document of our bell schedule Chardon High School Student Handbook Teacher Resources for CHS Students ( LIVE by the 1st quarter) 
Volunteer Fair
Stay warm!
Douglas Murray, Principal Forging Your Purpose in Steel
This week was another opportunity to grow at Chardon High School. It is hard to believe that we are rounding third and heading home at the end of a quarter. As Principal, one of the most essential responsibilities is to be an instructional leader. Managing my time is essential. Every day, I have a list of mission-driven tasks and goals to accomplish. There is always the plan, and then there is the reality of the undocumented needs that arrive in my office any given day. We all know that this is all apart of the master plan of leadership. Finding the time to multi/multi-task becomes an essential task in the life of a building administrator. A few years ago, I was teaching and trying to make a difference in the lives of students through learning, service, and athletics. Today, I am blessed to serve 1210 students, and 110 adults in living our mission. I have always been a progressive thinker in education. I am a reflective learner that strives to refine my practice all the time. Everything I do surrounds my personal mission statement, and individual purpose which connects to the vision of Chardon Local Schools.
Our choices are one thing that we can control. Our actions emulate our choices, and our character defines our lives. This mantra helps define our purpose. I am a big advocate of empowering students, and adults all of the time. One of the biggest questions that our children asked at an early age was "why!?" Why does this happen, Why does this do that, or Why are we going here...to a simple-- why does why, why! Asking probing questions enhances our curiosity throughout life. Many years ago, you chose Chardon as a place to live. You valued the beauty, community, safety, opportunity, and education. There are many other factors that played a role in your decision to choose Chardon Schools, and you entrust us in preparing your children for college, career, and life readiness. We are at the dawn of the first finish line. The end of the first quarter is upon us one week from today. Take the time to discuss where your son(s)/daughter(s) are during the first quarter, and ways that we can continue to support their learning. Our teachers are committed to serve, assist, and guide your children in any way possible. Make sure to reach out to them if you ever need anything. The more they know--the better that they can respond. This was another extraordinary week at CHS. Take the time to check out all of the latest things happening in this week's edition of the Week in Reflection. Shantytown/ Poverty Simulation/ Chil Cook-Off
Last weekend was an extraordinary experience for our students. On Friday, our Interact Club hosted a Chili Cook-Off which raised nearly $1,000 for a local charity. The next day, our students participated in a poverty simulation similar to the one that our staff experienced on the first teacher day in August. This transformative experience opened the eyes of our students who truly learned what life is like for thousands of people in Geauga County. This experience transitioned into Shantytown. An overnight experience for students at Chardon High School designed to raise awareness about the issues of poverty and homelessness in our community. CHS students engaged with current and former homeless speakers, shared a simple meal, watched a movie regarding homelessness, and spent the night sleeping in the football stadium. The next day, these dedicated advocates returned to school tired, cold, and hungry but with a better understanding of the causes of homelessness and how they can partner with the assets in our community that are working to improve the lives of people without a place to call home.
On October 10, six students with three teacher chaperones left after school to drive to Chicago to learn, serve, and demonstrate our core values to the men and women at Su Casa. The students and chaperones will be doing chores, serving dinner, and working with the local food pantry to expand their outreach. This experience will prepare our students for serving the needs of others in Chardon, Geauga, Lake and Cuyahoga county. It is important to note that all participants of the Service Learning course and Shantytown raised money for local non-profits engaged in providing support to people who are living in poverty. Recipients include The Salvation Army (Painesville, Ohio), Geauga Faith Rescue Mission, The Ohio Coalition for the Homeless (Columbus), Project Hope for the Homeless (Painesville), WomenSafe (Chardon), Forbes House (Painesville), and the Extended Housing (Painesville). We are so grateful for the time, energy, preparation, service, and outreach that this class and teacher placed into this meaningful experience! Special thanks to the teachers, parents, and community members who helped out and to Mr. Mizen and Mr. Brown who designed this entire week of learning.
Student Testimonial- Allison Sutton
I would like to talk about my experience at Shantytown! I honestly think that everyone in our school should do it at least one time in their school time career. I honestly had a rough night. My box caved in, so when I woke up I had a smaller amount of room to move. The rain poured that night. When I woke up I was able to ring out my blanket full of rainwater. I think I woke up every 2 hours that night and at 5:30 am I couldn't go back to sleep. Shantytown was supposed to show how homeless people felt. I think Mr.Mizen and Mr.Brown did a fantastic job of making the experience as close as possible to real life. After getting rid of our phones it was a relief from the world. As a family, we sat around our boxes and tents and did something that not many kids do. We talked. We laughed and interacted and talked to kids that we wouldn't normally talk to. Because of Shanty Town I made life-long friends. Shantytown isn't supposed to "insensitive" to homeless people and show "our privilege" but it is supposed to show what is actually happening in the real world. This also gives the kids going to Chicago to go volunteer at a homeless shelter more understanding of the people and what they go through.
Allison Sutton, Senior The World of Harry Potter
Using the book, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, students from Mrs. Newman's Harry Potter class researched various beasts. After answering follow-up questions and drawing their beasts, students completed an enrichment project by creatively designing one of the beasts or writing diary entries as they "followed" the beasts. Students could complete the project in any medium they chose.
Whitney Beorn - cupcake puffskeins Sydney Murray -clay moon calf Anna Gerstner - lego ashwinder Sara Conway - lego thunderbird Elizabeth Kirouac - drawing of basilisk heir Ohio Scholastic Media Association
On Thursday, October 3rd students from the MultiMedia and Newspaper classes attended OSMA’s (Ohio Scholastic Media Association) workshop at Kent State University. The 22 students who attended from CHS were able to choose from over 50 sessions to attend. Topics included legal and ethical situations, copyright law, finding story ideas, using big data to tell a story, grammar mistakes and how to avoid them, photo issues, interview techniques, and fake news, just to name a few. Experts in the field of journalism, photography, and law from Youngstown State, Kent State, Ashland University, and local school districts were some of the pros who presented to the students. Students and advisors, Mrs. Eby and Mr. Lichtinger, came away with several fresh ideas and tools to apply to the school newspaper and video announcements.
ELA LIVE
Originally conceived by Language Arts teacher Dawn Weaver, Language Arts Live! is a speaker and resource program which provides students with examples of how the knowledge they acquire in the classroom translates to the professional world and life beyond high school. The objectives are for students to be able to better understand the various reading, writing and communication skills they are currently learning and to then be able to apply these skills meaningfully to their lives.
The key to the success of this series is parental and community involvement which reinforces our CHARDON core values. Parents and community professionals come into our classrooms and participate in a panel discussion regarding the use of language and communication skills in various settings. Our seniors, in preparation for college and career readiness, will be exploring technical and career writing with the help of mentors currently in the professions to which the seniors aspire. The variety of professionals explain to the students the importance of effective communication skills, ideally motivating them to be effective communicators themselves. On October 4, Heather Biernacki and Lynn Monaco welcomed Allison Zeiger, Kevin Farina, Mary Beth Rus, Madelon Horvath, and Regina Rosace into their senior ELA courses for this year’s speaker panel. 
PSAT/Pre-ACT: October 16
To Parents/Guardians of Sophomore and Junior students:
On Wednesday, October 16th, all Junior and Sophomore students will be taking a practice version of a college entrance exam with the intent of giving your son or daughter the opportunity to experience a timed, national test. The results of these assessments will provide you with content-specific information on areas to improve prior to taking the actual test. Testing will begin promptly at 7:20 AM (which results in no late-start on this morning for these students). Students need to plan to arrive at least 10 minutes early to locate their testing location and to be prepared to take the test. All Juniors will be taking the PSAT/NMSQT. This is a practice test for the SAT, an entrance exam that many colleges utilize to assess a potential student’s academic strengths and readiness for college. This test also has a scholarship component through the National Merit Scholarship Program. Juniors who score in the highest percentiles may be given the opportunity to advance in this scholarship program. Students were assessed the typical registration fee at the beginning of the school year for this test ($16.00- the base price). The results from the test can be used to determine if students are currently on track for college-level coursework and offer an interest inventory that gives students some additional tools to use when determining a future career. All Sophomores will be taking the PreACT. Another practice test, the PreACT simulates the ACT testing experience within a shorter test window on all four ACT test subjects: English, Math, Reading, and Science. This test, geared toward 10th-grade students, can be used to predict future success on the ACT and offers an interest inventory that also provides students with a personalized view of interests and college and career alignment. Students were assessed $12.00- the fee that is charged by ACT to score their results, at the beginning of this school year. School Counselors have already visited 11th-grade students during their English classes and provided a student guide that includes a practice test with information for test day. Sophomores will be notified of what to expect and bring on test day, as well. Both tests give students the opportunity to opt into college and scholarship search programs by providing their address and email address during registration. Students should come prepared with an email address where they would like to receive notifications (if they would like to opt into this service), as well as #2 pencils and a calculator for test day. Any questions or concerns about the test can be directed to Timothy Hurlbut (timothy.hurlbut@chardonschools.org). PSAT Practice Test Preparing for the ACT October 16: PSAT/Pre-ACT Schedule October 16 Logistics for the day: Online Schedule Testing 7:20 AM-11:00 AM; Classes commence 11:33 AM-2:26 PM (adjusted schedule)
Thursday, October 17
The schedule is posted below. Advanced Placement (AP) Exam Registration
College Board has changed the procedures and timelines for AP Registration. Starting this year, AP Registration will take place in the Fall, as opposed to the Spring. AP Exam fees will be due November 1st. Students will be assessed the $94/exam fee to their school fees. These fees will be uploaded and available for payment starting October 21st. These AP Exam fees must be paid by Nov 1st in order for the exam to be ordered for your child.
Thanks to support from Governor Mike DeWine, the Ohio General Assembly, and the Ohio Department of Education, eligible low-income students AP Exams will be FREE this year. If you feel that your son/daughter qualifies, please have them reach out to Tim Hurlbut, AP Coordinator, in the Counseling office. Tim Hurlbut AP Coordinator timothy.hurlbut@chardonschools.org ASVAB
Whether you are planning on college, a technical school, the military, or you are just not sure yet, the ASVAB Career Exploration Program can put you on the right path towards a satisfying career.
The ASVAB Career Exploration Program can help you take steps now toward finding a career that’s right for you. You can benefit from the ASVAB CEP regardless of your plans for after high school. CHS will be offering the ASVAB on Wednesday, November 13th at 7:30 am. Students in grades 10-12 can sign up in Guidance to take advantage of this exclusive career exploration today! Promotional Video https://www.asvabprogram.com/videos/asvab_cep_overview.m4v www.asvabprogram.com Topper Times are NOW AVAILABLE for Q2
Students, click on this link to explore 2nd quarter Topper Times.
MathCounts Information for Chardon H.S.
Do you enjoy working on challenging puzzles? Do you enjoy working with others to problem solve? Would you like the opportunity to represent Chardon Schools in a Local, State or National Math Competition?
If so, then MathCounts is for you! MathCounts is a national program that provides students in grades 6-8 the opportunity to compete in live, in-person contests against and alongside their peers. The Chardon High and Middle School MathCounts Club will begin meeting once a week starting in October. The Math Counts group is looking for 8th grade students and their friends who are interested in working together in groups of four to solve challenging puzzles. Don’t worry if you are a group of 1, 2 or 3, if you love solving math problems, we will find a group for you! If you are interested in joining MathCounts, please see Mr. Francis or Mrs. Mysyk at Chardon M.S. or contact them via email to sign up. Here is a link to the Math Counts website just as FYI: https://www.mathcounts.org/ Parent-Teacher Conferences
Please click on the link below to sign up for PT Conferences.
Tuesday, October 22 (4:30-8:30 pm) Thursday, November 21 (4:30-8:00 pm) Sign up here. Crucial Conversations
Vaping: The Health and Legal Risks presented by Dr. Mendeszoon and Chardon Schools SRO Officer Carlson and Mrs. Bell, Ravenwood.
** Mrs. Bell will be available to speak with any student or parent who would like strategies or assistance in quitting vaping** Ending the Silence presented by NAMI of Geauga County is designed to increase awareness and decrease the stigma of mental illness through education and the use of personal stories. Healthy Habits for Teens: Sleep, Nutrition, and Social Media presented by Dr. Leone LGBTQ+: Raising Awareness and Addressing Challenges presented by Mrs. Grantham, Mr. Herner, and Chardon students. A Journey of Hope and Recovery told through personal stories with Lake Geauga Recovery Center clients and staff Social Media Safety presented by Rick Warner, Geauga County Prosecutors Office. **This presentation is for adults only and will provide information that can be used help keep youth safe online** Piece of the Week
This piece is by Alexis Fishleigh, Grade 11, "Neon Portrait"
Images of the Week
Mrs. Joanne DeShetler's Book Project for her Chardon High School English I Honors students with Park Elementary's Kindergarten students.
Video of the WeekTours of CHS
In the interest of providing community members with an up-close view of the building-related challenges at Chardon High School, the Chardon Local School District extends an invitation to all interested community members to attend a guided tour of the high school (151 Chardon Avenue).
The following three (3) District-led tour dates are open-to-the-public events with opportunity for Q&A
For those who have online access, facility photos can be found on the District's Twitter and Facebook pages under hashtag #TopperFacilities. We also invite you to visit the Facilities Plan page of the District's website, which includes a FAQs document for commonly asked questions pertaining to Bond Issue 21. Questions? Facility-related questions can be directed to facilities@chardonschools.org. Thank you for your interest and for sharing the tour dates. We hope to see you there. ~Chardon Schools Parent Resources
Twitter- Follow @chs_dmurray and @chardonhs
Remind 101- Text @TopperUp to the following number 81010 Chardon High School Google Calendar Chardon Athletics Sports Calendar Chardon Athletics Website Video Announcements: Link for the Morning Announcements Chardon High School: Program of Study Chardon High School Bell Schedule Google Document of our bell schedule Chardon High School Student Handbook Teacher Resources for CHS Students ( LIVE by the 1st quarter) Chardon Goes to the Musicals
Back by popular demand, Chardon Goes to the Musicals is selling tickets for the upcoming season. Please include the attached two fliers in your newsletters - Irving Berlin's White Christmas and Mean Girls. Both have money due to Munson PTO by Tuesday, October 29, so there is no need to advertise after that.
Thank you in advance for another year of helping to promote the arts at Playhouse Square, the second largest theater district outside of Broadway. Chardon Goes to the Musicals has sold over 500 tickets. A reminder this is not a fundraiser, but simply a way for community members to obtain tickets at discounted prices. Halloween Costumes
Several students have asked me about Halloween. I felt that it was important to share this communication with you now as you prepare for lessons and student experiences.
Thursday, October 31 is Halloween. However, with all of the excitement leading into the week- the Chardon Crazies and the CHS Administration are moving the traditional costume day to Friday, October 25 to align with the theme for the night. This is has been the plan for the last several years. Our students have traditionally dressed in appropriate costumes at school for the day. All Students will be permitted to dress this year, as long as the outfit properly follows the guidelines below. Staff and administration will be extremely diligent to ensure that all costumes are school appropriate and not a distraction to other students in their classes. Some things to consider when creating your costume:
On Thursday, October 31, students will dress in regular attire and NOT in costume. Students may certainly dress in Halloween shirts, sweatshirts, etc on this day. Topper Bistro
Check out the latest edition!
Have a beautiful weekend with family and friends!
Douglas Murray, Principal |
