|
12/15/2020 The Week in Reflection: 12/18
Looking back at the myriad of words that have been recorded this semester in this weekly blog- it is easy to see the volume of amazing students that have walked the halls, fields, and unique learning environments this semester. Coming into this school year, we had so many barriers placed before us. The students and staff have responded with dignity, and perseverance throughout a semester filled with uncertainty. This is a perfect time of year for everyone at CHS to recharge and refocus on the simple things in life. As we transition into 2021, remind yourself of how precious time is and the people that are in your inner circle. Take time for you...and spend time with your families.
As I have shared before, Robert Frost has played a significant role in authoring the numerous decisions that I have made in my life. His writings, along with other writers- fictional, philosophical, and sacred have inspired me to find my purpose. As we close a new year, consider the hills and valleys that you have faced along with your decisions along the way. The Road Not Taken Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth; Then took the other, as just as fair, And having perhaps the better claim Because it was grassy and wanted wear, Though as for that the passing there Had worn them really about the same, And both that morning equally lay In leaves no step had trodden black. Oh, I kept the first for another day! Yet knowing how way leads on to way I doubted if I should ever come back. I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference As I have shared with every student, staff, and parent that I have talked to over the years---we all have a story. It is through this story that we find ourselves and live with a defined purpose. Finding our call in life has no timeline or playbook. The more we open our eyes to the beauty in us, around us, and beyond us- the more we define who we are. Parents: Cherish these moments that you have with your children. The days have come and passed so quickly as you have watched your children grow. These four years of high school are pivotal in the maturation of your children. Often, you may wonder, do they hear me? Do they know that I care? The answer is complicated and simple...yes. Your children hear you, need you, and love you...even when they make decisions that ask the question if they ever have heard a word that you have shared. Remember, you were in their shoes. The lines of communication are always open- and when you dial them with your love--they will hear. Students: The last four months have gone by so quickly. It doesn't matter what grade level that you are in---you have faced a lot of choices. What I love about high school is the diversity of experiences that you face throughout your four years. Whether you are an eighth grader walking the halls for the first time, or you just were accepted into college--these four years draw into deep memories. Cherish today, for tomorrow is never granted. Live for the simple moments in life. Unplug from data and plug into real communication with your friends and family. A snapchat message will always be there waiting; never bypass a simple embrace, hello, or opportunity to give of yourself. Staff: One of the most overlook careers in the world is the one that creates careers. Being a teacher is a sacrifice, a gift, and often a thankless job. We appreciate the gifts that our teachers provide each day at Chardon High School. We have tremendous educators that not only live their content--they teach about living. Thank you for all that you do to train the future leaders--today. As we transition into a new year, my wish for you is that of continued, hope, joy, and happiness. Enjoy this time with family and friends. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and have a joyous New Year! ~Douglas Murray, Principal Principal's Podcast: Celebrating the Hilltoppers who are retiring
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 at Chardon High School graduates finding his/her purpose. The programs and opportunities that students experience at Chardon from grades 8-12 expose them to opportunities to achieve this purpose. More importantly, the relationships that students develop are paramount in their 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. Although we are unable to do so in person, the same commitment to care and recognition still matters to us. Being a part of the Topper Club is an extraordinary accomplishment. Our students noted in the Week in Reflection have maintained a GPA of 3.75 or higher. 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 our student leadership and look forward to the many ways that they will serve our school in the present and the future. As we transition back to school in January, student may come into the main office to pick up their award. Free Harmony Holiday Concert
It pains all of us that we are unable to watch our bands, and choirs perform this holiday season. Earlier in the month, Mr. Streiff and G-TV collaborated to record a safe holiday concert. We look forward to the day where we can listen to beauty of our students! Enjoy the video below.
OLAC Presentation: The Principal's Podcast
This week, the CHS administration had the opportunity to present (virtually) at a national conference discussing the topic of maximizing creativity during the pandemic. We presented on the Principal's Podcast.
Weekly Reflections are a great way for high school students to take a look back at their week and reflect on what they learned, how they were successful, what challenges they faced, and what goals they would like to set, moving forward. Weekly Reflections allow students to take the wheel and show pride in their learning. Every Friday morning, the Chardon community is blessed with dynamic words and pictures from the past week of events at Chardon High School. As 2020 began to evolve into a myriad of challenges, the administrators at Chardon High School enhanced this weekly model to meet the needs of the community. First out of necessity and now with intention, purpose, and meaning, the Week in Reflection Podcast brings the community even closer to the great work of our students, faculty, and school. Enclosed below is the video presentation. Presentation Notes Principal Podcast 
Happy Holidays! Take the time to celebrate your family this season. We look forward to seeing you in the new year.
Stay tuned during the break for new updates for the return to school plan on January 5, 2021. With love, Douglas Murray, Principal 12/8/2020 The Week in Reflection: 12/11
We receive many calls each week that relate to what's happening at school. I might have lost count at this point to the amount of times that I hear our secretaries talk to parents and guardians about the Week in Reflection. So, here's another reminder--- if this is your first time reading this---this is the "catch all" building level communication that comes out each Friday at 7 AM. If you choose to not skim this information, you will be directed to this weekly newsletter for the answer. Too many times we hear--"I don't read anything from the school." Please save yourself the step and browse this before calling.
Reflecting
When you look in the mirror--what do you see? What do you feel? What do you hear?
A reflection is a mirror image of what we see on the exterior. When we look at ourselves we often see ourselves as other people describe us. Mirrors can be tricky in reflecting the mirage of another person's words. The world can be a cold place when we look in the mirror. But, does it have to be? Should it be? A mirror should reflect the beauty of our creation, our words, and our feelings. Everyone is beautiful. Everyone has value, and everyone has worth. It is up to each of us to reflect this into our own mind's eye in order to change our world, our perspective, and our outcomes--and in doing so, we change another person's world. A little bit of kindness goes a long way. That kindness lives in each of us. This past week has been difficult for all of us. Those reading this would know. Every employee, every student, and every caretaker sacrificed, even more, this week as we deployed week one of Remote Learning 2.0. Some students love it, some students adapt to it, and other students hate it. I get it. We get it. We miss seeing our students, but we know that this period of time is important for all of us to take care of ourselves so that we can see each other real soon. What is really important for all of us to understand is the fact that this is school. This is not last spring when things were frantically being built and we didn't know all of the outcomes that we were preparing for. This summer, fall, and our experiences in all educational models have refined us ---and we have prepared for this moment. We know that it will not be perfect nor ideal, but we have nearly 90 adults working meticulously to make sure that all students are on track, doing their work, and being mindful of their learning. This shared experience in Remote Learning 2.0 takes a team in order for it to be successful. The administration, school counselors, secretaries, and support staff are working daily to support the educational system. In order for the system to sustain success, we need all of our students to stay on schedule. Students need to report during their scheduled classes on time, engage in coursework and meets, and ask for help when they feel unsettled. This help is more than just the skills learned in the classroom. Students should contact their teachers, counselors, administrators, and support staff to assist them during this period of time in remote learning. We are all here to help. This two week scheduled window in remote learning is to help our county, school, and households flatten the curve. We all have to do our part in and out of the classroom. We know that we will get through this, we just need to weather this storm---together. The schedule for next week is the same as last week. The remote schedule is much more conducive to learning than the hybrid model. Teachers are able to meet with their students more frequently and have built-in office hours throughout. Take care! Please reach out if you need us, we miss you all!
CHS Remote Learning Schedule Details 2020-2021
Please note that a change to the remote learning schedule model WILL impact the 100% virtual (blue) instructional model. These students will follow the remote learning schedule. Furthermore, these details apply to those who are enrolled in (in-person) learning. Should the district move to back to a 50/50 hybrid or 100%, additional details that impact all high school students would be shared.
In the remote learning schedule, (A/B) groups NO longer need to be utilized. All students report each day remotely to their class period following the bell schedule.
While in a remote learning schedule, students will follow their class schedules and receive daily instruction from their teachers. Students will go to the Google Classroom for each instructional period to access either the Google Meet or daily learning instructions from the teacher.
Accurately tracking students’ attendance is required by the State of Ohio. While in a hybrid, students had an increased responsibility in this process. Now, while in 100% remote learning, traditional attendance will occur. (Teachers will take attendance).
In order for a student to be marked as present during any given class period in a remote setting, two things must occur:
If students do not meet BOTH of these expectations, they will be marked absent for the school day, or absent from a specific class from which the work was not completed. These absence hours will calculate towards truancy calculations as required by House Bill 410. Parents are encouraged to activate attendance notifications through the Infinite Campus parent portal to be sure your son or daughter checks-in daily. It is really important to note the class times for the remote learning model. Our plan has evolved since July. In order to deliver, apply, and execute the most sound plan--we have adjusted lunch periods in order for all students and staff to eat at the same time since the students will be at home.
While learning from home students should, on average, anticipate approximately 3-4 hours of class contact/work each day. Please remember that this is a full day of school.
The following activities/class periods will not meet virtually: Regular Study Halls Freshman Mentoring Program Topper Times All work will be assigned through Google Classroom for each class. The work will be posted prior to each course and will be due by the date and time that the assignment is assigned. All teachers who are NOT teaching in the Circuit of Success will have office hours scheduled for Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 1:51-2:25 pm. Likewise, teachers may adjust their Wednesday PLC time to work with students. These hours are built as an opportunity to receive assistance from your teacher.
Absences from School: Please Call 440-285-4057 (press 1)
Informing the school of COVID-19 (Positive result/Quarantine) 440-286-0418 
Resources
Teacher Resources for CHS Students (Links to teacher resources) Quarantine in Home Letter (This reference is for those students who become Quarantined in the home due to contact tracing.)
CHROMEBOOKS: TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Students and Parents/Guardians having Chromebook issues can call the following Tech Support Lines. Grades 8 - 12: 440-286-0428 Live support will be offered from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Please leave a message if the line is busy, or if you call after hours. Calls will be returned as soon as possible. If a Chromebook needs repair, the Tech Support Line will schedule an appointment. All repairs MUST be pre-scheduled. Teacher Directory Principal Mr. Douglas Murray douglas.murray@chardonschools.org Assistant Principal Mr. Ryan Bandiera ryan.bandiera@chardonschools.org Assistant Principal Mr. Douglas Higham douglas.higham@chardonschools.org Social Worker Mrs. Joan Blackburn joan.blackburn@chardonschools.org Resource Office Officer Carlson chs.sro@chardonschools.org Nurse Mrs. Jan Hoffman Janice.Hoffmann@chardonschools.org Guidance: A-G Mr. Hurlbut timothy.hurlbut@chardonschools.org H-O Mrs. Hetrick nicolle.hetrick@chardonschools.org P-Z Mr. Kovach kyle.kovach@chardonschools.org Counselor Mrs. Tupaz dawn.tupaz@chardonschools.org Administrative Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday 1:51 PM- 2:25 PM Google Meet Chardon Local Schools Athletics Update Middle and High School
Based upon the current information, the following is an update on the status of Chardon High School athletics and Chardon Middle School athletics for the winter sports season.
Please note these policies are not absolute and are subject to change as we receive additional information and/or recommendations from the health department based on current COVID-19 trend data in Chardon and Geauga County. Effective Wednesday, November 25, 2020
Jeremy's Kids
The impact of COVID-19 has impacted so many parts of our lives for way too long... and as we approach the holiday season, the Chardon Service class had to adjust many parts of the annual fundraiser, Jeremy's Kids.
The Chardon Service Learning class has developed an amazing website this year to help the process. Last year, the class raised almost $10,000.00. They were able to help nearly eighty people. The need in Geauga County this year is even higher and we worked with our school treasurer to come up with a safe and secure process for fundraising. Please consider donating to this excellent cause and help make a child have an amazing Christmas. For those who do not know the story, here's our why- On December 24th, 1999, the son of Robert and Dee Mizen, Jeremy, suffered trauma to the head following a car accident on the way to Christmas Eve church service. An outpour of love and compassion from the community donated thousands of dollars that eventually was used as a scholarship fund in memory of Jeremy's life. The scholarship program ended in 2011 granting one thousand dollar scholarships to eight students. The Jeremy's Kids Foundation fund was started in 2001 and continues to this day collecting money from the community to purchase gifts for families in need each holiday season. It is our mission to make the Christmas of each and every individual included in this operation unforgettable. The mission of Jeremy's kids is to provide holiday gifts for at need families in Geauga County. In 20 years of giving back to the community, we have raised over $120,000. With the money raised, Chardon High School students are given the opportunity to go to local stores and shop for these families. With your help, we can continue this tradition even through the hard times we are experiencing due to Covid-19. Car Raffle!
State Championship Page
Click on the Image for more information!
Stay warm, and stay safe!
Douglas Murray, Principal 12/3/2020 The Week in Reflection: 12/4/20Welcome Home, Snow
Well, you cannot make this stuff up. The question now is-who is going to be the first from our circles to write the book about the misfit toy year known as 2020. Just when you think you have seen it all, then it snows right on time. I hope that you have power to even read this communication. Most of us have lived through a Chardon snow, but this one was certainly heavy (literally). This week, we experienced a partial schedule of periods 1, 3, 5, 7---two consecutive calamity days--and our consecutive red schedules. This week, we also learned that the district will be transitioning to remote learning starting next week. There is a lot of information inside of this edition of the Week in Reflection.
CHS Principal Podcast: Mr. Murray, Mr. Bandiera, and Mr. Higham discuss next week
Watch or listen to this podcast to best understand the change in delivery model for next week as we move to remote learning from December 7-December 18. The winter break begins thereafter through January 4, 2021. School returns on January 5, 2021.
CHS Remote Learning Schedule Details 2020-2021
Please note that a change to the remote learning schedule model WILL impact the 100% virtual (blue) instructional model. These students will follow the remote learning schedule. Furthermore, these details apply to those who are enrolled in (in-person) learning. Should the district move to back to a 50/50 hybrid or 100%, additional details that impact all high school students would be shared.
In the remote learning schedule, (A/B) groups NO longer need to be utilized. All students report each day remotely to their class period following the bell schedule.
While in a remote learning schedule, students will follow their class schedules and receive daily instruction from their teachers. Students will go to the Google Classroom for each instructional period to access either the Google Meet or daily learning instructions from the teacher.
Accurately tracking students’ attendance is required by the State of Ohio. While in a hybrid, students had an increased responsibility in this process. Now, while in 100% remote learning, traditional attendance will occur. (Teachers will take attendance).
In order for a student to be marked as present during any given class period in a remote setting, two things must occur:
If students do not meet BOTH of these expectations, they will be marked absent for the school day, or absent from a specific class from which the work was not completed. These absence hours will calculate towards truancy calculations as required by House Bill 410. Parents are encouraged to activate attendance notifications through the Infinite Campus parent portal to be sure your son or daughter checks-in daily. It is really important to note the class times for the remote learning model. Our plan has evolved since July. In order to deliver, apply, and execute the most sound plan--we have adjusted lunch periods in order for all students and staff to eat at the same time since the students will be at home.
While learning from home students should, on average, anticipate approximately 3-4 hours of class contact/work each day. Please remember that this is a full day of school.
The following activities/class periods will not meet virtually: Regular Study Halls Freshman Mentoring Program Topper Times All work will be assigned through Google Classroom for each class. The work will be posted prior to each course and will be due by the date and time that the assignment is assigned. All teachers who are NOT teaching in the Circuit of Success will have office hours scheduled for Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 1:51-2:25 pm. Likewise, teachers may adjust their Wednesday PLC time to work with students. These hours are built as an opportunity to receive assistance from your teacher.
Absences from School: Please Call 440-285-4057 (press 1)
Informing the school of COVID-19 (Positive result/Quarantine) 440-286-0418 
Resources
Teacher Resources for CHS Students (Links to teacher resources) Quarantine in Home Letter (This reference is for those students who become Quarantined in the home due to contact tracing.) CHROMEBOOKS: TECHNICAL SUPPORT Students and Parents/Guardians having Chromebook issues can call the following Tech Support Lines. Grades 8 - 12: 440-286-0428 Live support will be offered from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Please leave a message if the line is busy, or if you call after hours. Calls will be returned as soon as possible. If a Chromebook needs repair, the Tech Support Line will schedule an appointment. All repairs MUST be pre-scheduled. Teacher Directory Principal Mr. Douglas Murray douglas.murray@chardonschools.org Assistant Principal Mr. Ryan Bandiera ryan.bandiera@chardonschools.org Assistant Principal Mr. Douglas Higham douglas.higham@chardonschools.org Social Worker Mrs. Joan Blackburn joan.blackburn@chardonschools.org Resource Office Officer Carlson chs.sro@chardonschools.org Nurse Mrs. Jan Hoffman Janice.Hoffmann@chardonschools.org Guidance: A-G Mr. Hurlbut timothy.hurlbut@chardonschools.org H-O Mrs. Hetrick nicolle.hetrick@chardonschools.org P-Z Mr. Kovach kyle.kovach@chardonschools.org Counselor Mrs. Tupaz dawn.tupaz@chardonschools.org Administrative Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday 1:51 PM- 2:25 PM Google Meet Chardon Local Schools Athletics Update Middle and High School
Based upon the current information, the following is an update on the status of Chardon High School athletics and Chardon Middle School athletics for the winter sports season.
Please note these policies are not absolute and are subject to change as we receive additional information and/or recommendations from the health department based on current COVID-19 trend data in Chardon and Geauga County. Effective Wednesday, November 25, 2020
Jeremy's Kids
The impact of COVID-19 has impacted so many parts of our lives for way too long... and as we approach the holiday season, the Chardon Service class had to adjust many parts of the annual fundraiser, Jeremy's Kids.
The Chardon Service Learning class has developed an amazing website this year to help the process. Last year, the class raised almost $10,000.00. They were able to help nearly eighty people. The need in Geauga County this year is even higher and we worked with our school treasurer to come up with a safe and secure process for fundraising. Please consider donating to this excellent cause and help make a child have an amazing Christmas. For those who do not know the story, here's our why- On December 24th, 1999, the son of Robert and Dee Mizen, Jeremy, suffered trauma to the head following a car accident on the way to Christmas Eve church service. An outpour of love and compassion from the community donated thousands of dollars that eventually was used as a scholarship fund in memory of Jeremy's life. The scholarship program ended in 2011 granting one thousand dollar scholarships to eight students. The Jeremy's Kids Foundation fund was started in 2001 and continues to this day collecting money from the community to purchase gifts for families in need each holiday season. It is our mission to make the Christmas of each and every individual included in this operation unforgettable. The mission of Jeremy's kids is to provide holiday gifts for at need families in Geauga County. In 20 years of giving back to the community, we have raised over $120,000. With the money raised, Chardon High School students are given the opportunity to go to local stores and shop for these families. With your help, we can continue this tradition even through the hard times we are experiencing due to Covid-19. Car Raffle!
Click on the Image for more information!
Have a beautiful weekend with your family!
Douglas Murray, Principal |
