The @chs_dmurray Week in Reflection

“The deepest principle of human nature is craving to be appreciated.” This quote from William James provides a lens for all of us to look through. If we are honest with ourselves, we all want and need to feel valued for who we are and recognized for our contributions and accomplishments. It’s important for us to know that we have made a difference in someone’s life.

I appreciate all of you for who you are and what you have accomplished this quarter. We have so many things to be grateful for each day.  When you stop and think about the simple things in life, you reflect on all those areas of your life that transcend us to who we are. 

Live Simply

In the complex world in which we live, the noise can often surround us from all sides. Living simply can allow us to disconnect from the noise. Organizational effectiveness and proper planning is never simple.  This work gives us the purpose to expand our territory in order to handle all of our responsibilities. However, inside of the planning, it is important to be mindful of how you are doing and to take the time to breathe, reflect, and rejuvenate your energy. This reminder of living simply can benefit not only students but any adult running through a tight schedule.

Dream Big

Living in the moment is a phrase that we rehearse and apply from the direction of our parents and adult mentors. This phrase is often used to ground us from daydreaming. For example, I would often share that I wanted to be a professional baseball player and make all of this money living in my big dream. Our dreams certainly can become a reality. What draws out of our creative energies is not only an appreciation of likes, talents, and desires---but, and expansion of our thoughts--hopes-- and work ethics. Dreaming big is not a lost art, it is the fabric that allows us to critically think, innovate and solve new problems in the world. 

Be Grateful

If a person takes the time to express their heartfelt appreciation for something we have done, it boosts our spirit, passion, and purpose.  It builds our self-confidence, self-esteem and our entire self-image. It gives us energy and motivation to work harder and do more.

Give Love

Take the time to thank those that love you. Write them a note, call them, send a text. Likewise, as hard as it is, be mindful of those that might not be as kind to you and model kindness. When you look in the mirror, remind yourself of your own beauty. Life is so short.  When we pause in the present moment, we take the time to appreciate all of the little things around us. Never take for granted your time with others. 

Laugh Lots

The best medicine for a rough day is laughter! Celebrate the simple things and laugh! One of the best things this week was laughing and laughing with Mr. Fronk after school. Humor can go a long way to refresh your energy and celebrate each other.

What we value becomes a reflection of our thoughts, deeds, and actions. So, practice kindness, appreciation, and make another person feel better by your presence. That becomes the gift that energizes others to live their purpose. Make today great!

​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)

1. School Transportation runs at the regular time. All students riding the bus to school will report the cafeteria. At the dismissal bell, students in grades 10, and 11 will report to their testing rooms (posted in the hallway). Testing begins at 7:20 AM
2. All students in grades 8, 9, and 12 who rode the bus or who were dropped off will report to the cafeteria for a silent study hall.
3. Lunch will begin for students in the cafeteria at 10:30 AM
4. Classrooms who have completed the test will be quietly dismissed to the cafeteria for lunch after 10:30 AM
5. All tests will conclude by 11:00 AM an will report to lunch.
6. 2nd period begins at 11:33 AM. (55 minutes)
7. 4th period begins at 12:32 (55 minutes)
8. 6th period begins at 1:31 (55 minutes)
9. Transportation runs at the regular time for the conclusion of the day.

Thursday, October 17

1. School Transportation runs at the regular time. All students riding the bus to school will report the cafeteria for the late-start schedule. Teacher's will report to PLC's
2. 1st period begins at 9:03 AM (65 minutes)
3. 3rd period begins at 10:12 AM (65 minutes)
4. 5th period begins at 11:17 AM (65 Minutes)
5. 7th period begins at 1:21 PM (65 minutes)

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

Annual Infinite Campus Update

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. 

Free/Reduced Lunch Application

It is never too late to apply for free and reduced lunch at school.  Your child will be bringing home a Free and Reduced Lunch application in the near future.  Even if your child does not eat school meals you should complete the form if you are eligible because the amount of federal funds our school building receives depends on the return of these completed forms. These funds pay for additional educational services for students.  

The application can be found here: 
http://www.chardon.k12.oh.us/Downloads/FreeReduced2019-2020_on-line%20app6.pdf   ​

​Topper Bistro

Monday
Popcorn 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
Chicken and Waffles
Maple Bacon Sauce
Tater Tots
Pizza Hut Pizza!!
Grab & Go  Salads and Sandwiches
Asst. Chicken Sandwiches
Panini Sandwiches
Chicken or Burgers  
 
Wednesday
Beef Sliders
with cheese
 Green Beans
 Baked Fries
Grab & Go Salads and Sandwiches 
Chicken or Burgers  
Bosco Sticks
Assorted Pizzas  

Thursday
Pasta Time!!!
Penne Pasta
Homemade Meat sauce Sauce
Cheesy Alfredo Sauce
Warm Garlic Bread
Steamed Broccoli
Chicken or Burgers 
Grab & Go Salads and Sandwiches    
Specialty Pizza
Panini Sandwiches

​Chili Cook-Off is TONIGHT

The Chardon Interact Club will have its annual Chili Cook-Off October 4th from 5-7 pm. Admission will be $5 dollars pre-sale and at the door. Come to eat endless chili before the football game and support the high school. In addition to attending the cook-off you can enter your chili to be judged. Top entries will receive prizes! 

Crucial Conversations

Please join CHS and local community partners for an evening of presentations about issues teens are facing.  Break-out sessions include:
​
 NAMI of Geauga County - Ending the Silence
 Dr. Louis Leone - Healthy Habits for Teens: Sleep, Nutrition, and Social Media
 Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, Chardon Police Department, Chardon Students- Vaping
 Ms. Grantham, Mr. Herner, Chardon Students - LGTBQ+
 A Journey of Recovery - Lake Geauga Recovery Center
 Chardon Student Panel

​October Learning Center Newsletter

In this issue, readers will find the latest information from INFOhio. Looking for Professional Development opportunities? INFOhio has that. Looking for high-quality tools to use in the classroom that align with standards? INFOhio has that, and many more quality resources available for educators, parents, and students in Ohio. For access to it all, just follow the hyperlinks provided in the newsletter.     ​

Piece of the Week

"Shell Study" by Annie Ciszak, grade 12

A preview of the animation project, three separate frames by Annie Ciszak

Images of the Weeks

Students in  Dr. Schneider's AP Physics  C are preparing a lab on projectile studies

Click the Image to Read More

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). 
The following three (3) District-led tour dates are open-to-the-public events with opportunity for Q&A:

• Thursday OCTOBER 3RD 7:00PM - 9:00PM

• Saturday OCTOBER 19TH 9:00AM - 10:30AM

• Saturday OCTOBER 26TH 1:00PM - 2:30PM 

You may share the above guided tour invitation with local friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, etc. as we recognize that not all community members receive online communications and have therefore may not have seen many of the facility challenges the District is facing. 
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)
​
Have a beautiful weekend with family and friends! Go Toppers!
​Douglas Murray, Principal

October 11: Friday--NEOEA Day (No School)
October 18: Friday-- End of the 1st Quarter