As building principal, I wanted to start this Week in Reflection by recognizing the work that our Communication Director, Kelly Misch, has provided to Chardon Schools throughout this first semester. Kelly has created new energy and creativity towards highlighting our mission of the district.  Below, you will read and be able to watch a small example of the work that she creates. Many of you have noticed the new approach she has created within the Topper Talk, district posts to social media, along with her print communication. We are grateful for her and appreciate all that she does behind the scenes. In this edition of the weekly newsletter, we will focus on PBIS, our established culture, the blended learning day coming up in February--along with encompassing all of the great things happening at CHS.

"Chardon Schools' 2nd Quarter 2019-20 Highlights VIDEO is now available for you to view and enjoy. While certainly we recognize one short video alone cannot capture all that the district's students have accomplished in one quarter, we do our best to showcase at least a few of those Hilltopper moments.
Please feel free to share the video link with fellow community members who do not receive our emails but would like to learn more about the ways in which #WeAreChardon." - Kelly Misch

The CHS Choirs students participated in a full day of activities featuring cultural opportunities in Cleveland.  We started the day with a tour of Severance Hall, the home of the world famous Cleveland Orchestra.  Then off to Church of the Covenant, a cathedral in University Circle, where we participated in a choral workshop with CWRU professors Dr. Peters and Dr. Garrett.  The CHS choirs sang for them and were provided constructive perspectives and techniques to grow on.  The choir then stopped for lunch at Nighttown Restaurant.  Nightgown is a great jazz hub in Cleveland and provided a wonderful backdrop for our guest performer and quartet Ava Preston.  Ava is a Freshman in high school and has refined her craft of singing jazz vocals.  Ave sang classic jazz tunes along with a few original pieces that she has written reflective of themes of mental health and struggle as a culture with the loss related to the opioid epidemic.  After lunch, we headed to the Cleveland Museum of Art, where we received a private tour correlating the communication of visual art to that of our choral singing art.  The choirs jumped on the RTA Healthline to transfer from University Circle to Playhouse Square District.  We met up with actors and administrative personnel from the Great Lakes Theatre Festival and Playhouse Square, including alumni Kaitlyn Carr, to talk about careers and insights to working in the arts and theatre careers.  After a full day, we were all ready for a fun and relaxing time at the Hofbrauhaus as we experienced some German food and music.  The CHS Choirs added to the excitement of the great hall with participating in some dancing and singing of "Edelweis".  We ended our evening with taking in the production of "Jersey Boys" presented at the Playhouse Square Connor Palace Theatre.  All 84 students and adults were a class act and represented CHS everywhere we went.  Special thank you to our many chaperones that made time to be with us!  A great day of learning and fun was had by all!  Next spring the CHS choirs are off to NYC!  ​

​January 25th - Madison High School

Congratulations to the following students for their hard work and personal preparation for OMEA Solo & Ensemble. 

Parents of students turning 16 and all junior students:

As you make appointments for your child to have his/her annual checkup please keep in mind he/she will need a dose of the meningitis vaccine. Proof of vaccination should be submitted to the clinic anytime but must be provided by the start of the next school year. 
  
Ohio Revised Code states:

·        One (1) dose of meningococcal vaccine is required prior to entry into the 7th grade.
 
·        A second (2nd) dose of meningococcal vaccine is required prior to entry into the 12th grade. The second (2nd) dose must be administered on or after the 16th birthday with at least eight (8) weeks between the first (1st) and second (2nd) dose.  If the first (1st) dose of meningococcal vaccine was administered after the 16th birthday, a second (2nd) dose is not required. 

If you have any questions, please contact Jan Hoffmann BSN, RN, LSN at 440.286.0418 or janice.hoffmann"@chardonschools.org

CHS Parents can begin signing up for the final Parent Teacher Conferences of the year.  Conferences are February 4, 2020.  Likewise, on the same night, the school counselors and department chairs will be presenting the District CCP Information session along with the CHS Curriculum Night.  This will be held at 6:30 pm in the CMS LGIR. The purpose of moving this event to the LGIR is due to the lack of available space at the high school due to the basketball game that will be in the gym. ​

There will be a parent/student information meeting on Thursday, Feb. 6th at 7:00 pm in CHS room 210.  There are spots still available for this adventure!  

​Hello, 
 
My name is Hannah Tucker, and I am the Program Coordinator at an overnight summer camp in Chardon, Ohio. We are hiring for many positions at our camp, and I was hoping you could pass the information along to your SENIOR STUDENTS/ATHLETES.
 
We are looking to recruit and hire summer staff (current high school seniors) who have experience and skills in their specialty area as well as a passion for working with children. We hire over 150 staff every summer from the U.S., Israel, U.K., Australia, Colombia, South Africa, and beyond. All positions we hire for are room & board-based positions where counselors live on-site in cabins with campers and have days off every week or so.
 
Attached to this email is our staff hiring flyer which provides an overview of our summer staff experience and available positions. If you are able to share this flyer with your students or hang it up at school, we would really appreciate that! I have also included our staff hiring video, if you have the opportunity to show this to your students, that would be great. Staff Video: https://vimeo.com/369706120
 
I hope you will be able to share these opportunities with your network. I am happy to answer any questions or provide more information if that would be helpful.

Have a great weekend with family and friends,

​Douglas Murray, Principal

I want to begin my Week in Reflection with something to ponder: Action Changes Things.

I designed this logo years ago --spending countless hours working with students and staff to refocus the lens of our culture. Back then, many students and staff were forging their path while the atmosphere was foggy. The atmosphere was foggy not by choice but due to a shared experience that began our journey to rediscover who we were as a school community and a town.

We have grown tremendously as a school since we re-established our why...our focus...our vision. There was no turning back. Through collaborative planning and design we transcended ourselves into the school we always were: high achieving, service oriented, and a culture of caring.

It is almost impossible to document all of the intentional acts of kindness, outreach programs, and academic achievements since this design--but, it is important to go back to our core and sharpen the lens from time to time.

Recently, our administrative team and school resource officer have spent a week working with students to remind them that our choices and our actions changes things wherever we are. 

When we were all kids we played the game of phone. The game was simple and always had a humorous ending. We would tell our first friend one thing and then the next friend would try to tell the next person the same thing without missing a word. By the end of the game, the first statement would be morphed and changed down the chain into something that made no sense.

In a controlled situation, this game can be fun for any student to learn the importance of clear communication and active listening. In the real world, this can cause drama, rumors, and stress for many students and adults depending on the context of the story. 

There is no game of phone tag here. This week, we brought in the Geauga County Sheriff's Office (K-9 Unit) to Chardon High School to check lockers, randomly selected classrooms (bags), bathrooms, athletic areas, and our student parking lot. The dogs are certified in narcotics detection, suspect apprehension, handler protection, article search, suspect search and tracking. During this scheduled session, the dogs were specifically looking for any sign of narcotics. 

During the drill, Chardon High School implemented a "lock-in" drill that places the school in a specific safety sequence where no one is allowed to leave the building, and in this case--classrooms-- to allow the dogs to do their jobs.

This was an opportunity for us to further educate our students about student safety and making good choices. More importantly, we were able to model our shared vision of controlling what we control at Chardon High School. We can control our culture, our message, our shared commitment to keep students and staff safe from harmful substances inside of our building. 

In a similar tone, we can, if necessary, have heart-to-heart conversations with students and parents to help our children along their journey through life. 

It is also important to share that the district invested in Halo IOT Smart Sensors that were installed in all of our bathrooms. HALO has a host of sensors to perform multiple detections. 12 sensors to be exact. The hundreds of combinations it detects expands its capabilities to be able to differentiate between substances as well.  For instance, HALO can distinguish between a person vaping and a person vaping with a substance laced with THC. These detectors, which were paid for by a Wellness Grant, are able to detect the air quality in numerous ways--while sending building administrators an immediate text and email detailing the location and indication of the deterrent recognized. This has literally created a lean process for building administrators to address the problem while the act is being conducted. In reality, the students might say that they feel comfortable going to the bathroom--knowing that they are being protected by these sensors.

Some of the things HALO can detect are:

• Particulate matter
• Humidity that produces mold and other Fungi
• VOCs
  • Formaldehyde
  • Trichloroethylene
  • Xylene
• Benzene
• Ammonia
• Carbon Monoxide
• Carbon Dioxide
• Vape
• THC
• Smoke
• Light
• Vibration
• Pressure
• Temperature
• Sound Abnormalities

The data that we have collected (thus far) has demonstrated that these devices are highly accurate, and have allowed us to combat against these vices inside of our building--while educating students and parents about the physical, social, emotional, and legal side of these substances. 

I am sharing this information not to scare you, but to educate you that Chardon High School students  and staff have taken a stand to control the educational and social experiences inside of our building. While we all live in a world that is oftentimes uncontrollable in the decisions that people make...at CHS, we are choosing how we respond to the changes in the world by educating and protecting the students and staff that we serve.

If you are interested in learning more, please contact me, or any building administrator.

In the spirit of ACTion changing things, enclosed is some very important information to help all our students in grades 8-12 prepare for our ACT/Core Value Day on February 25.

ACT and Blended Learning Day

What you need to know:
What: ACT Test ... Tuesday, February 25th, all Juniors will be taking the ACT at Chardon High School.
Why: The fourth year of the state requirement to administer the ACT or SAT to Juniors as a pathway to graduation. 

Questions about ACT/SAT Requirement

• For Testing Day:
  • Juniors must report to school at 7:30. Auburn Career Center Juniors will stay at CHS for the testing. Pre-administration begins at 7:30. All testing will start thereafter.
  • All materials will be available for pickup by 7:00 in the Guided Study Area.
  • Teachers need to be in the testing room and ready to administer the pre-administration and test by 7:25
  • Staff should dress comfortably in tennis shoes that do not make noise when walking in the room. 
  • Students will report to assigned rooms. Rooms will be posted for students by Friday, February 21.
  • Students must present ID (or be recognized by staff) for attendance purposes. 
  • Students are not permitted to use phones or other technology devices at any time in the testing room. Do not collect technology devices. 
  • Testing manuals will be available with testing materials.  
  • Additional Supplies (Pencils, Calculators) will be available to students as needed. 
  • Students need to complete the pre-administration prior to testing. This will happen at the start of our testing session. 
  • Students are permitted to leave when time is up and all materials have been collected.  When students leave, they may leave the building or head quietly to the cafeteria. 
  • Breaks- Not all rooms will take breaks at the same time.  Students must use the restroom near student services or go to the cafeteria during a break. Any snacks may be consumed during breaks. 
  • Individual Breaks- If a student needs a break during testing, they will be escorted to the restroom/nurse.  They may not receive additional time for testing. 

Blended Learning Day

The following expectations will be required for each grade level:

ELA Specific: Students in the following classes need to arrive no later than 8:45 AM for their field trip. Departure is at 9:00 AM. Students will return at 2:15 PM

ELA classes scheduled to attend a field trip on Feb 25, 2020 (130 students)
Mrs. Deshetler 8 Honors (ENG IH) 
Ms.Tersigni and Mrs. Downs ICP
Ms.Tersigni and Mr. Lichtinger IICP
 
Senior Auburn Career Center Students: Report to CHS at 10:25 AM for Bus Departure
CEVEC will be in session for our students who attend.
 

All students listed above do NOT need to fill out the Google Form

Eighth Grade, Freshman, Sophomores, and Seniors must complete a Google Form to show attendance for the day, along with demonstrating what activities, services, and achievements took place during the blended day.

Seniors: 

• Students will focus on components of their Capstone Senior Project as part of the pathways to graduation. 
• Tasks to be completed include:
  • Meeting with a mentor for a shadowing experience
  • Physically completing a portion of the project
  • Shadow a professional in an area of interest for future employment
  • Complete 1 or more journals with a log of hours
  • Prepare final Capstone Project Presentation
  • Prepare a final reflective essay

Eighth Graders, Freshman, and Sophomores:

• Students will focus on community service with a focus on the Core Values.
• Students must reflect on their experience by completing the Google Form

Need some ideas? Check out these examples

Why creating a culture surrounding the principles of servant leadership matters today.

The Google Form will be sent out on 2/24.

A downloadable document is available below.

CHS Parents can begin signing up for the final Parent Teacher Conferences of the year.  Conferences are February 4, 2020.  Likewise, on the same night, the school counselors and department chairs will be presenting the District CCP Information session along with the CHS Curriculum Night.  This will be held at 6:30 pm in the CMS LGIR. The purpose of moving this event to the LGIR is due to the lack of available space at the high school due to the basketball game that will be in the gym. 

In order to better prepare you and your child to the academic offerings at Chardon High School, we will be hosting a Curriculum Evening on February 4, 2020, at 6:30 PM in the LGIR. This evening also coincides with our Parent Teacher Conferences.
 
At this meeting, we will provide an overview of the curricular offerings, and course delivery options (including College Credit Plus), and an overview of the scheduling process.  Several of our high school teachers and counselors will be on hand that evening to share information and answer questions regarding their curriculum and course offerings.  Representatives from local colleges will also be present to answer questions about College Credit Plus.
 
Our School Counselors will be presenting to students about scheduling and course offerings later in February. This evening is for all grades entering 8-12. We will schedule a separate evening to go through the high school experiences for new 8th graders at a later date. 

​Enclosed is the link for parent teacher conferences

Parent Teacher Conferences are for all parents grades 8-12. This is NOT an invitation only opportunity
https://www.ptcfast.com/schools/Chardon_High_School

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.

Please direct all questions to douglas.higham@chardonschools.org

Trip Presentation from November is enclosed.

DNA replication build in Honors Biology

AHLI field trip to The Cleveland Art Museum

2019-2020 yearbook cover art by Jackson Perry, Tori Lowe, with contributing drawings by our Drawing students and finally edited and composed digitally by Emily Spangler!

A message from Jan Hoffman:

​We are in the midst of the flu season. It traditionally begins to increase in October and can last as late as May. Cases typically peak between December and February. The CDC states that a vaccine effectiveness in the range of 40% to 60% has been observed. This means that people who get vaccinated may still get sick, but they are about half as likely to get sick as someone who was not vaccinated. Another important thing to remember is that vaccination may make illness less severe in people who get vaccinated and still get sick. Dr. Roy Buchinsky, Dir. of Wellness for University Hospitals said “Vaccines are not perfect, but they are powerful in preventing the flu illness. It is not too late to get your flu vaccine if you have not yet received one this season.” ​

The district administration expanded MAP testing in November to include students in grades 8-10 in English and Math. The MAP Winter testing session has occurred at Chardon High School. During this period your child will take the MAP® Growth™ test in English and Math in grades 8-10.

We give students MAP Growth tests to determine their instructional level and to measure academic growth throughout the school year (and from year to year) in Reading, Math, and Language. 

MAP Growth tests are unique in that they adapt to your child’s level of learning. If your child answers a question correctly, the next question is more challenging. If they answer incorrectly, the next one is easier. This results in a detailed picture of what your child knows and is ready to learn—whether it is on, above, or below their grade level. 

Since MAP Growth tests provide immediate and accurate information about your child’s learning, it’s easy for teachers to identify students with similar scores that are generally ready for instruction in similar skills and topics, and then plan instruction accordingly. Teachers can also see how your child is progressing in his/her learning goals. 

FACTS ABOUT MAP:  

• It is not an accountability test  
• Generates test questions based on student responses; adjusts to a student’s skill level so that each student takes an individualized test  
• Given on computer under adult supervision  
• Reports student results in RIT Scores  
• Gives immediate results  
• Aligned to state curriculum standards and National Common Core standards  
• Used to target individual instruction

For more information about the MAP Growth test, visit: https://www.nwea.org/Parent-Toolkit/

​The Ski/Snowboard Club is excited to announce a day trip to Holiday Valley Ski Resort in New York. The trip is planned for Saturday, March 7 and is open to all students at the high school (grades 8-12). Students do NOT have to currently be part of the ski club to participate in this opportunity. If your son/daughter is interested please see the attached flyer for more details, including an overview of the itinerary for the day. Space for this opportunity is limited to just one bus, so please make sure your son/daughter turns in his/her registration to Miss Fisher as soon as possible! If you have any questions, please email Alison Fisher at alison.fisher@chardonschools.org

Obtain an application for minor work permit in the school office. 
​

1. The top section of the application is to be filled out by the student and signed by a parent or guardian. The bottom section of the application is to be filled out by the employer. 
2. The back section is to be filled out by a physician. 
3. All sections of the form need to be filled out before processing. 
4. You must have one of the following valid forms of ID when you bring the form back:  Birth certificate,   Driver’s license ,  or Passport. 
5. Student will return a completed form with one of the valid forms of ID.  
   
6. Mrs. Sprinzl will process the application. 

Please allow 24 hours turn around for the work permit. ​

Have an awesome weekend with your family and friends!

​Douglas Murray, Principal

This time of year can create a sense of passiveness or lethargy in energy, creativity, and health. Living in Northeast Ohio and walking outside to cloudiness and unpredictable weather only adds to the feeling of waiting and wishing for a change. No human is immune to these feelings...especially after the holidays.  Taking care of yourself will best equip you for emotions that can arise this time of year.  

Weathering the storm

When a storm is predicted you prepare the best that you can as a homeowner, motorist, or tourist. Your experiences, along with trusting others who have been in similar conditions, best equip you with the knowledge that you need to get through these situations. Likewise, in your life, there are many people that you encounter that have experienced the trials of good and bad times. Listening to the wisdom of family members and trusted adults can provide insight into the best ways to get through difficult times. Knowing that there are others who are experiencing these feelings, or passiveness is an important reality to remember. You are not in this alone. In order to equip yourself fully, it is important to talk to others and share how you are feeling instead of letting the "storm" grow inside of your life.  The third quarter of a school year can be compared to the 7th inning stretch in baseball: the time of year where students can become very restless and lethargic. Every student can fall into this restless period- it is important that parents, teachers, counselors, and administrators work collaboratively to guide students through this seasonal experience.

Creating new habits

The best way to get out of the third quarter blues is to create new habits and routines. This is easier said than done. Students need to choose this response to create the new outcomes that they desire. Light energizes each of us. During the winter, the days seem shorter due to the change in season and the tilt of the earth. Our bodies adjust to this change and we need to create new routines to increase our energy. In the same way, the third quarter can create a "tilt" in our energy to stay on top of our work, exercise, and past routines.  Many students may fall into this trap of the third quarter and wonder what happened when the quarter ends in early March. Instead of wondering where the time went---reestablish the routines that you set forth in the first and second quarters and plowshare the noise of the third quarter.  

Preparing for tomorrow by living today

In his book, Above the Line: Lessons in Leadership and Life from a Championship Program, Urban Meyer discusses the success formula that can catapult our responses to any event in our lives.  This formula is simple: E + R = O (Event + Response = Outcome) We don’t control the events in life and we don’t directly control the outcomes. However,  we always have control over how we choose to respond. His approach to athletes can align perfectly with our response to events in our life. The key indicator is leadership. This leadership is not only what I can control as a principal. It is what WE can lead as parents, teachers, and coaches to our children--along with how we can support each other in the process. We all need to ask the question--exactly what is it that I am after each day? Having this clarity of purpose will allow us to keep our responses "above the line" of being intentional, purposeful, and skillful whereas living "below the line" of being impulsive, and on autopilot.

Six R Factor Disciplines that Urban Meyer teaches:
(Above the Line: Lessons in Leadership and Life from a Championship Program)

1. Press Pause – gives you time to think, gets you off autopilot, avoid doing something foolish or harmful, focus on acting with purpose
2. Get Your Mind Right – What you focus on, how you talk to yourself, productive vs negative mindset, Irritated Mindset or Survival Mindset (both below the line) vs. Purpose mindset (above the line)
3. Step Up – Understand the situation, understand what is required of you and respond above the line
4. Adjust & Adapt – Consider the current path of your R Factor habits. Where are they taking you? Where do you want to go? Adjust.
5. Make a Difference – take complete ownership of the experience you give others and your contribution to the team’s culture
6. Build Skill – Elite performers build skill above their talents. Talent is a gift, greatness is a choice.

Under pressure, we do not rise to the occasion. We rise or fall to the level of our training. Therefore, train far beyond the finish line of the third quarter and the outcomes will catapult the goals that you set for yourself. 

Students in Senora Tekavec's Spanish class are using Google Expeditions to explore Argentina today! Google Expeditions is an immersive education app that allows teachers and students to explore the world through over 1000 virtual-reality (VR) and 100 augmented-reality (AR) tours.

There is so much we can all learn from Martin Luther King, Jr, and not just on the day off we get once a year to commemorate his life! The enclosed is a simple read from Peter Jones of the Job Network.
​
Here are 5 powerful lessons from Dr. King that could help you live better, do better, and go further.

1. Ask why.

And more importantly, ask “why not?” If someone tells you something is impossible, ask this very important question to figure out why they are so convinced, and whether you might be able to offer a solution no one else had seen. When looking for answers to some of the biggest questions of a generation, Dr. King turned to other sources for inspiration. This teaches us the answers to our problems will often come from unexpected corners, and how important it is to learn from other people and other cultures as much as we can.

2. You can’t change change.

Change is constant. Dr. King was initially hesitant to join in the 1963 March on Washington, but he adapted to the evolving movement and ended up leading one of the most moving and effective platforms for social change. Be adaptable. Realize that change is inevitable. All you can control is what you do in the face of it.

3. Find where you can give, not just receive.

Dr. King once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” In stressful times, it becomes very difficult to focus on anyone but ourselves. But this is a moral requirement, and increasingly more so in our interconnected, fast-paced world. When you’re in a rut, focus on helping people—you’ll be surprised at what a difference that can make.

4. Tune out the critics.

As long as you’ve chosen a path that’s good and a cause that you are passionate about, and as long as you’re pursuing both with integrity, honesty, and concern for others, then you’ll need to tune out the haters now and then. People will always be critical. Rejection will always happen, particularly in the course of a career. But if you know you’re doing the right thing, you should keep doing it.

5. Leave a legacy.

Think about what sort of mark you want to leave on the world. Is the work you’re doing going to make a difference to the next generation? Even if you can’t make an impact on the same scale as Dr. King, you can figure out ways to leave your workplace, industry, etc., a little better off for your having been there.

Have a great weekend with family and friends! See you on Tuesday!

Mr. Murray, Principal

A New Year. New Opportunities.  At the beginning of anything new, we have the opportunity to reflect on moments from the past year and make meaningful resolutions for the upcoming year. In order for any resolution to come to fruition, we need to make changes to our routines or habits. Research states that it takes 21 days to create new habits. Creating new habits, or breaking old ones is challenging but the outcomes can be transformative to the person making meaningful changes. 

Often times, we make resolutions for our health and by the time that Spring Break rolls around, we are back to our old habits. This year, I challenge everyone to look at one way that you can make an impact on your life. For students, it could relate to organizational effectiveness--study habits, homework, test prep, etc. It could also connect to putting down technology each night at a certain time.  For parents, it could relate to wellness, or it could relate to scheduled dinners, or even putting your work away at a certain time to be with your children. For staff, it could relate to trying something new within instructional practices each unit, or finding extra patience in the classroom. 

Reflecting on the first semester, 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! 

Avg GPA for Q1= 3.20
Avg GPA for Q2= 3.14

Second Quarter GPA Avg

Seniors Avg =3.21
Juniors Avg= 3.20
Sophomores Avg= 3.09
Freshman Avg= 3.09
Eighth Grade Avg= 3.14

We are proud to share the results from the current completed quarter (2nd 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.

This new year is up to us. Live it to the fullest. Every single day is an opportunity to seize the day to the fullest. Make today great! Here are some key areas to focus on towards establishing new goals this semester.

Purposeful Life

Anyone that knows me can share that I wear my emotions on my sleeves. Whether it is a blessing or a curse, there is complete transparency to my emotions.  People who live a life of purpose have core beliefs and values that influence their decisions, shape their day-to-day actions, and determine their short and long-term priorities. They place significant value on being a person of high integrity and in earning the trust and respect of others. The result is that they live with a clear conscience and spend more time listening to their inner voice than being influenced negatively by others.

Make the Right Stuff, the Right Stuff

I learned the value of hard work from my parents, and definitely from my wife who is the ultimate multi-tasker. People who live a life of purpose identify those activities that matter most to them and spend the majority of their time and effort in those areas. Otherwise, it’s too easy to drift away in the currents of life. There is a clear connection to the statement: How we spend our days parallels to how we live our lives. They work hand in hand---reminding us of the important marriage of choices and priorities. 

Passion

My entire life I have found value in pursuing what my passions were. From working outdoors at Sand Ridge to Kirtland Country Club, to teaching, and coaching...I have always loved pursuing areas in my life that I enjoyed. People who live a life of purpose wake up each morning eager to face the new day. They pursue their dreams with fervor, put their hearts into everything they do, and feel that they’re personally making a difference. 

Balance

Finding a balance is essential and challenging. The key is reflecting weekly about those that you love and if you have given as much to family as you have to your passion. People who live a life of purpose put their heart into their career and into building relationships with friends and family. They also reserve adequate time to satisfy their personal needs. Achieving balance means living up to one’s potential in all facets of life.

Happiness 

Happiness is a choice – not a result. Nothing will make you happy until you choose to be happy. No person will make you happy unless you decide to be happy. Your happiness will not come to you. It can only come from you. – --Ralph Marston 

I have lived by this mantra my whole life. People who live a life of purpose have inner peace. They’re satisfied with what they have and who they are. To them, the grass is greener on their own side of the fence because of the time spent nurturing and cultivating their purpose. 

Serving

Living a life of service has taught me so much about myself. It has humbled me, guided me, and grounded me in my values. People who live a life of purpose make a meaningful difference in someone else’s life. They do things for others without expectation of personal gain, serve as exemplary role models, and gain as much satisfaction witnessing the success of others as witnessing their own. As the old proverb says, “A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.”

Seizing Moments

Remember that scene in Dead Poet's Society where Robin William challenges the students to Carpe Diem- Seize the day and make their lives extraordinary? He was changing the students perspective and experiences to live beyond the status quo. People who live a life of purpose cherish every moment and seek to live life without regret. They take joy in the experiences that life gives and don’t worry about keeping score. ​

Make the most out of the moments in front of you and seize every single day as a new opportunity to achieve greatness!

On Wednesday and Thursday of this week, three CHS 8th grade delegates participated in the Winter Junior Model United Nations Conference at John Carroll University. A Junior Model United Nations delegate is a student who assumes the role of an ambassador to the United Nations and represented a country and debates international topics & come to global solutions.  Lauren Lester represented Ireland in the United Nations International Children´s Emergency Fund committee, Megan Robie & Julia Ellington represented Japan for the UN Commission on Human Rights.   These young women made Chardon proud! Lauren Lester won the top honor in her committee, the Gavel Award!  Our next high school conference is the Cleveland International Model UN in February at the Cleveland Bar Association, where 27 CHS delegates will work on resolving international crises. Grade job students and thanks for all of the planning Mrs. Niedzwiecki!

Creative Writing Club is an open club where students can try many different writing exercises with an inclusive music-filled environment.  It has a very loose structure and is open to any student who wishes to grow their creative writing skills. As a club, we would like to invite all Chardon High School Students to a meeting Wednesday, January 22nd at 8:00 AM in room 214. Come to learn what creative writing club is about and see if you would like to join! 

Kaylie Malloy (km.22314@chardon.us) 
Hannah Means (hm.5084@chardon.us) 
Mrs. Weaver (dawn.weaver@chardonschools.org)

​Congratulations to Anne Ciszak and Halle Parrish! 
​
Anne's photo titled 'Newsboy' and Halle's ink drawing titled 'Envy' were awarded medals in this year's Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. They will be professionally displayed at Cleveland Institute of Art with a great shot at moving up to being presented in a gallery at the national-level award show in New York City.

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to watch our high flying athletes at Lake Erie Gymnastics School (LEGS). Chardon faced Hudson, Mentor, Riverside, and Kirtland. The Chardon team was able to take second with many girls placing in the top 6. Look out for this team!

Last week at the WRC meet, Chardon did something historic for the swim program. Both men and women claimed the title. 

The women en route to the highest point total ever at the meet 521 (either men or women). Individual winners included: Gracie Duchon 200 medley and Sarah Bennett 50/100 free. The 200 free relay of Campbell Tierney, Sarah Bennett, Stella Parrish, and Gracie Duchon we’re champions. As well as the 400 free relay of Sarah Bennett, Morgan Debevec, Campbell Tierney and Stella Parrish. 

The following had 2nd place podium finishes: Campbell Tierney 200/500 free. Gracie Duchon 100 fly. 
3rd place podium finishes : Stella Parrish 200/500 free, Morgan Debevec 50 free, Reese Schneider 100 back.

On the men’s side. Their first ever WRC title. With 427 and second place with 266 total points. Chardon men had never won an event.

This year we swept the relays : Medley: Levi Rogers, Jackson Perry, Connor Rozic, Mason Kooyman 
200 Free relay: Mason Kooyman, Jackson Perry, Nate Bender, Lachlan Koenen
400 Free Relay: Austin Dumm, Nate Bender, Levi Rogers, Lachlan Koenen 
Individual Champions: Nate Bender 200/500 free. Lachlan Koenen : 200 I’m. Levi Rogers 100 Back
2nd place podium finishes: Levi Rogers 100 free, Lachlan Koenen 500 free
3rd place podium finishes: Mason Kooyman 50 free. Jackson Perry 100 breast.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Thanks to the work of Mrs. Fullerman, Chardon Schools has another opportunity to go see musicals at Playhouse Square. Please find the attached flyer for Jesus Christ Superstar.   (Money due no later than Wednesday, January 29).  As a reminder, this is not a fundraiser, just an opportunity to enjoy Playhouse Square, the second largest theater district outside of Broadway.

Attached is the latest issue of The Learning Center Newsletter. Fraudulent activity, and cybercrime will continue to be with us going into the new decade. In this issue, you will find some tips to protect yourself and your accounts in the new year.

Hippie Flower Power: A Musical Tribute to the '60's

The students of Valley Dale High School want to stage a battle of the bands between the girls’ band, Flower Power, and the boys’ band, Peter, Paul, and Harry.  When their request is denied, they try to get a permit at the city park by claiming it’s a fundraiser for their Hug-a-Tree foundation.  When they are shut down again, Ole MacDonald’s farm comes to their rescue if they agree to produce the Cornstalk Music Festival.  Throngs of people begin to arrive, including Big Mama’s Bikers, who try to destroy everything.  When The Kooks, a top British rock group, arrive on the scene, everything goes wild!  Your cast and crew will have tons of fun recreating all the colorful fun of the sixties with groovy clothing, psychedelic backdrops, and six original songs that sound straight out of the era.

For her senior project, Karlie Pirnat will be holding a sock drive during school from Monday, January 13th to Thursday, January 16th. Bins will be located outside of the cafeteria, near the main entrance. There will also be collection bins at the JV and Varsity boys basketball games on Friday, January 17th. Any donations are appreciated. New and used socks will be accepted, as long as they are clean and don’t have any holes. The socks will be used to make toys for the puppies and kittens at Rescue Village. Thank you!

With winter here and a very wide open lake, 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:

• Weather and radar reports
• Personal observation of road conditions
• Input from local law enforcement and road crews
• Input from district maintenance and snow removal personnel
• When necessary, school personnel drive the roads to determine the conditions
• Input and discussions with superintendents from neighboring districts

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.

The district uses a delayed start rather than canceling school should weather conditions allow for this option. In order to ensure greater safety during a delayed start, the opening of schools will be delayed two hours. The following is information concerning how the delayed opening will be implemented and a school-specific schedule:

• Once the decision has been made to close schools or delay the opening, the Superintendent will activate our Blackboard Communication System and update via Twitter @chardonsupt and @chardonschools, our district website and local television stations. It is strongly suggested that parents subscribe to the text/email notification systems now offered by the major Cleveland television stations in order to receive school closing information as soon as it becomes available.
• All parents will receive an automated phone call indicating that school has either been canceled or will open using a delayed start of two hours.  If school is closed and you did not receive a call it is necessary for you to confirm your telephone contact information with your child’s school as we use the most recent telephone numbers on file for sending automated messages.
• Under a delayed start, all buses will arrive at their morning stop locations exactly two hours later than normal schedule within the constraints of weather and road conditions. Students (including non-public school students that receive transportation through Chardon Schools) should plan to arrive at their assigned stops approximately 10 minutes prior to that time.
• Under a delayed start, all schools will open for operations exactly two hours later than their normal schedule. Students that walk to school, drive, or receive rides to school should plan on arriving two hours later unless directed otherwise for special programs.
• Under a delayed start, all schools will offer a lunch program with options that meet school nutrition standards.
• Under a delayed start, all schools will dismiss at the usual time.
• Under a delayed start, there will be no transportation to/from Auburn Career Center for AM classes. These students should plan to arrive at CHS for their afternoon classes following the modified schedule for that day. The bus for PM Auburn Career Center Classes will depart CHS at 11:00 AM.
• Under a delayed start, Lake Academy/LEADS will be picked up exactly two hours later than their normal time.
• Under a delayed start, there will be no morning preschool class. Afternoon class will report at noon.
• Under a delayed start, morning Latchkey programs at all schools will be canceled for that day.
• Under a delayed start, all private, parochial and special education schools that receive transportation services from Chardon Schools will be picked up exactly two hours later.

​
Again, safety is our highest priority and we strive to make the best possible decision with the information available at the time.  Parents can always choose to keep their children home if they truly feel there is a weather-related safety risk.  These absences will be recorded as excused, with make-up work provided to the student if the Superintendent designates the day as a Severe Weather Day in the school district.
Please do not hesitate to contact the district if you require additional information in this regard.

January is a great time to celebrate the hard-working school board members and educate our community about the important role that a school board plays in our communities and schools. We appreciate the commitment, passion, leadership, and service of our Chardon Board Members. Thank you for your support and efforts towards living our mission at Chardon. We appreciate you.

2020 proclamation
Gov. Mike DeWine has recognized January 2020 as School Board Recognition Month. 

Enjoy the weekend with family and friends!

​Douglas Murray, Principal

January 17: Professional Day-- No School
January 20: Martin Luther King Day- No School
February 4: PT Conferences/Curriculum Night
February 25: State Mandated ACT (grade 11) Core Values Service Day (8-10;12)