TWHS Weekly News
October 1, 2021
Weekly Calendar
Monday, October 4: Regular Bell Schedule
Tuesday, October 5: Regular Bell Schedule
Wednesday, October 6: Homeroom Bell Schedule
- Dine Out for TWHS Chearleading 11:00 am - 9:00 pm at Pies & Pints
Thursday, October 7: Regular Bell Schedule
Friday, October 8: Regular Bell Schedule
Saturday, October 9:
- Les Eisenhart Cross Country Invitational 8:00 am
- 2021 Thomas Worthington High School Homecoming Dance 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Dear Cardinal Family,
TikTok is my number-one app!
If you haven't been following the social media challenges started on TikTok, they're really quite disturbing. Here are a couple of sample news articles. A quick internet search will reveal quite a few more.
I have been trying to come up with an explanation as to how these things have become so popular and why we are experiencing this kind of behavior. I want to blame obvious things, like the pandemic, mental health issues, and a desire to lash out when so many things feel out of control. What if we draw a different conclusion?
We need a response that works. I can write all day about how much trouble kids will get into if they rip two sinks and all the plumbing off the wall. It's true! They will get in trouble! But I'm not sure that message helps. Responding to anger with threats might make you feel better, but it doesn't have the long-term effect I think we're all seeking.
Instead, I'm going to ask for help. Let's talk to our kids and make our expectations clear. Ruining taxpayer property and wasting the time of our custodial and maintenance staff are not productive. What are some ways to cope with stress? What are some ways to gain control of things we can control and accept the things we cannot?
In fact, the links in the last paragraph are good reminders for all of us. Maybe most adults aren't pulling plumbing fixtures off walls, but what if they're doing public damage in other ways that are obvious and unnecessarily destructive? We don't have to look too far (online or in person) to see bad behavior modeled for our kids. Maybe this TikTok issue is less surprising than we originally thought. Maybe it's just a kids' version of the bad behavior we're seeing in adults, as well.
I think we can solve this together. I think it's less about threats and more about finding healthy ways to effectively cope with the stress we're all feeling.
My first line was just to get you reading. I still strongly dislike TikTok. In fact, right now it's my number-one app to delete.
Have a great weekend and Go Cards!
Sincerely,
Pete Scully
Principal
TWHS
**New Announcements this Week**
- TWHS September Cardinal of the Month
- Please Review the Attendance Policy
- TikTok Challenges Impacting Worthington Schools
- Active Parenting Workshop
- Purchase Homecoming Tickets
** ACADEMIC UPDATES**
The 3Rs - Cardinal Expectations at TWHS
There are three general behavior expectations at Thomas Worthington High School: build Relationships, show Respect, and be Responsible.
We define build Relationships as “to cultivate belonging”. It is our goal that 100% of our students feel connected to at least one adult that they trust enough to go to when they really need it. From our morning greeting as each student enters the building, to each teacher connecting with each student, to our Wednesday homeroom lessons, we strive to create an environment that is so welcoming - all are inspired to learn.
We define show Respect as “use appropriate language”. We work towards being mindful of the words we speak and the immense power they have on ourselves and others. We learn that the words we say, along with the time, setting, and location have an impact on others.
We define be Responsible as “to attend and be on time to class”. We are intentional about the value of showing up, being on time, and being present for ourselves and others.
Recognition of Others
Open Lunch Option for Juniors
In an attempt to improve spacing in the cafeteria, Worthington Schools will be permitting Juniors to participate in the Open Lunch option this year. This option will begin Tuesday, September 7th. Juniors who wish to participate in Open Lunch must have a written permission form from a parent or guardian.
CLICK HERE for more information, the guidelines and the permission form for the Open Lunch option.
Please have your student return their signed permission form to Kim Forman in the Main Office at TWHS.
Seniors and Parents/Guardians Sign up for Naviance Now!
Naviance is a college planning tool for students to request transcripts to be sent to colleges, conduct college searches, and request letters of recommendations. Please make sure you have your email linked to Naviance as the School Counselors will send you emails about college rep visits, scholarships, deadlines, and more! Click Naviance 101 Video presentation or this document for step-by-step directions and more information about using Naviance.
Submit Your Senior Picture!
Senior Pictures must be submitted by Monday, January 31st, 2022
Submit your senior picture at Senior Photo Submission for the yearbook by January 31st, 2022.
Directions to submit your senior picture:
- Your photo must be VERTICAL and in COLOR or BLACK AND WHITE
- Your photo needs to be at least 300 DPI and 3” tall
- Only school-related props are allowed in portraits. No animals or pets (sorry!). Make sure your photo follows the TWHS dress code. No “selfie-styles.”
- Senior Photo Submission (it must be a *jpeg or .png)
No late photos will be accepted.
Class of '22: Important Dates for Ordering Cap & Gown
SENIORS! Don't forget to order your Cap & Gown. Please CLICK HERE for more information to order your cap/gown/tassel plus other additional products for graduation.
**The final deadline to submit orders is January 31, 2022 to ensure delivery of your student's cap & gown in the spring.**
Buy A Senior Ad!
Deadline: Wednesday, May 25th, 2022
Send a special message to your senior! Show how much you care by surprising your senior with a personalized note and photos in their yearbook.
- Baby photos
- Childhood memories
- Accomplishments
Questions? Contact: service@buckeyescholastic.com
Parents/guardians of seniors are encouraged to purchase a Senior Ad Page to feature their child in the yearbook. This page can include baby photos, childhood memories, and/or other accomplishments for your child. Click senior ad page examples for ideas.
⅛ page senior ad: $40
¼ page senior ad: $75
½ page senior ad page: $125.
Buy a Senior Baby Ad!
Submit a baby photo for your senior along with a message of congratulations. It is a 1/8 page ad.
Cost: $20
Deadline: Wednesday, May 25th, 2022
Click here to purchase and submit your baby ad!
Thank you for your interest in purchasing a baby ad in the 2022 TWHS Cardinal Yearbook! The cost is only $20 and proceeds help us create a quality yearbook that you'll enjoy for years to come.
Order Your 2021-2022 Yearbook!
Be sure to order your yearbooks today!
Click HERE for more information.
2020-2021 Yearbook Update
If you did not order a 2020-2021 yearbook but would now like one, you can order last year's book for $75 on Buckeye Scholastic. Purchase it now while supplies last!
** SCHOOL COMMUNITY CONNECTION**
2021 TWHS Homecoming Dance: Saturday, October 9th
Dear Cardinal Family,
Our TWHS Student Council is excited to announce our Homecoming Dance for Saturday, October 9, 2021. As a precaution, we are planning for the dance to occur outdoors in our stadium. The dance will begin at 7:30 PM and it will end at 10:00 PM. Students can expect many of the same things we have for an indoor dance; DJ, photo backdrops for pictures, etc. However, with it being outdoors some things will be different. We do not have the ability to control the weather and are still exploring options on our lighting. With it being October, the weather could be cool and we hope students will be prepared for the temperature to drop throughout the dance. Typically, we have a coat check at our dances, but we will forgo this service to allow students to keep their jackets with them.
Masks are encouraged
Social distancing, when possible
Shoes must be flat; no high-heels (wedges are permitted as long as the sole is flat the whole length of the shoe)
Concessions will be available for snacks and drinks
Purchased food must be consumed in the concession area or the stadium bleachers (only a portion of the bleachers will be used for seating)
Restroom facilities will be available
The high school administration will monitor the weather and make a determination for the outside dance no later than 1:00 PM on Saturday, October 9, 2021. This will be communicated to students and parents through Blackboard. This is the same platform we use to send our school newsletters. More details will follow as they are confirmed. The Class of 2024 is working hard to make this a fun and memorable event.
Date: Saturday, October 9, 2021
Time: 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Cost: $10
Location: TWHS Athletic Stadium Turf
TikTok Challenges Impacting Worthington Schools
We have become aware of monthly online challenges that are impacting some of our Worthington schools through an app called TikTok. These challenges encourage students to participate in illegal activities, such as vandalizing school property, stealing items from their building or committing assault.
We will continue to talk with our students about the impact on these challenges to our school environment and one another, but we also ask for your help in explaining the seriousness of these acts. We need all students to understand that vandalism to school facilities or assault will not be tolerated, and students will be disciplined in accordance with our District Handbooks.
We appreciate your partnership in speaking with your child about the importance of respecting school property and others. If your child has information that can help prevent further destruction, please encourage them to report any inappropriate behavior. It is through our collective efforts that we will continue to foster pride in our schools.
Worthington Schools is Hiring Teacher Substitutes
Do you enjoy working with children?
Do you have at least a Bachelor’s level degree?
Would you like to make $150** to $165* per day working with students?
Worthington would love to have you as a Guest Teacher (substitute) in our district!
Worthington Teacher Substitutes are hired through the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio (ESCCO) via an online application system. You will need current BCI/FBI background checks (can be done in the Worthington HR office) and you will need to apply for a Substitute License through the Ohio Department of Education. Worthington personnel will assist you in this process to assure a smooth and timely activation with the ESCCO.
*Worthington has opportunities for “Permanent Guest Teachers” (PGT’s) who are committed to working Monday through Friday when school is in session. PGT’s are paid $165 per day and guaranteed a substitute assignment each day. The HR office will place you throughout the district to cover for an absence or as an “extra” in a building if all absences are covered. Must be flexible and open to all classrooms and schools.
** Can’t commit to every school day? That works for us, too! “Daily” substitutes work as needed and select their own assignment (school/grade level/subject) and are paid $150 per day.
Choose the option that works for you!
Ready to apply?
Go to this link: https://www.escco.org/Substitutes.aspx
For more information, please contact Jeff Maddox at 614-450-6029 or via email jmaddox@wscloud.org.
Master Facilities Plan Follow Up Survey
We need your feedback!
The community-led task force is considering five possible options for the next phase of the Master Facilities Plan.
Please watch the presentation, review the options and take the survey at: www.worthington.k12.oh.us/mfp2 OR use the QR code provided.
Veteran's Day Celebration Thursday, November 11th
Veterans day is a time for us to pay our respects to those who have served. Thomas Worthington High School is committed to making that day special for veterans and providing a platform to tell their stories. If you want to volunteer to be part of the Veterans Day student Committee, sign up through the digital weekly newsletter, scan the QR code on flyers throughout the building, or stop in Central office.
Thanks,
Mr. Shaffer
Assistant Principal
614-450-6292
Please Review: Attendance Office Procedures for TWHS Students
Please notify the Attendance Office if you know your student will be absent from school. Call or email ahead to pre-excuse for appointments and ask your student to pick up a pass in the Attendance Office ahead of time – we prefer not to interrupt classes by calling rooms.
Call the 24-hour recorded line to leave a message at
614-450-6291, or you may send an email to twhsattend@wscloud.org.
Cardinal Theatre Production of Proof
October 14, 16 & 17, 2021
Cardinal Theatre
Catherine has inherited her late father’s mathematical brilliance, but she is haunted by the fear that she might also share his debilitating mental illness. She has spent years caring for her now-deceased father, and upon his death, she feels left alone to pick up the pieces of her life without him. Caught between a new-found connection with Hal, one of her father’s former students, and the reappearance of her sister, Claire, Catherine finds both her world and her mind growing increasingly unstable. Then Hal discovers a groundbreaking proof among the 103 notebooks Catherine’s father left behind, and Catherine is forced to further question how much of her father’s genius or madness will she inherit. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, David Auburn’s Proof is a passionate, intelligent story about fathers and daughters, the nature of genius, and the power of love.
**Tickets will go on sale Monday, October 11th**
PTSO Membership 2021-2022
The PTSO represents the parents, teachers, and students of Thomas Worthington High School. We aspire to support our school's mission of supporting the education of students by fostering relationships among the school, parents, students and teachers.
There are many opportunities for parent(s) and guardian(s) to become involved at TWHS through our PTSO. Applications can be filled out online by going to the PTSO tab on the Thomas Worthington web site or by clicking HERE
PTSO Meeting Dates Set for 2021-22 – Please Join Us!
All PTSO meetings are on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. in the TWHS Principal's conference room (Room 127). Everyone is welcome - please join us! The 2021-22 meeting schedule is: November 16, January 18, March 15 and May 17.
Athletic Passes
All 6th-12th grade students in the Worthington School District will be admitted free to home sporting events with a VALID student ID. Adult athletic passes and single game tickets are now available online by going to TWHS Ticket Page. Please note that no tickets will sold at the gate. Tickets must be purchased online.
**FROM THE HEALTH OFFICE**
COVID Guidelines
Covid 19 continues to have a presence in our community. Worthington Schools has adapted its policy for quarantine and removal of ill children to reflect those set by The Columbus Health Department.
As we return to a normal schedule with all students attending school daily it is extremely important to NOT send your student to school if they are sick and not feeling well. A daily health check is required for parents and students to complete each morning prior to school.
Daily Home COVID-19 "Before School" Screening
Guidance for Daily Home Screening
If your child develops or reports any of the symptoms listed below during the school day they will be isolated and a parent or guardian will be called for immediate pick up. Follow up with a health care provider will be required for your student to return to school. The COVID-19 protocols will be strictly enforced to ensure a healthy environment for our students and staff.
Your child needs to be kept home if any of the following symptoms are present.
Temperature 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher when taken by mouth
New or worsened cough
New onset severe headache
Loss of taste or smell
Sore throat
Nasal congestion or runny nose
Vomiting or diarrhea
J. Frank MSE, BSN, RN LSN
Thomas Worthington High School
ph: 614-450-6215 fax: 614-450-6393
Columbus Public Health Vaccine Information
Vaccines protect children from serious and preventable diseases – and all K-12 students must be up-to-date on all required vaccines entering the new school year.
Please contact your healthcare provider to make sure that your child is up to date on their vaccinations. If for any reason you cannot get into your doctor on time, Columbus Public Health has an Immunization Clinic at 240 Parsons Ave. where students can receive their vaccines, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Vaccines are offered at Columbus Public Health’s immunization clinic on a walk-in basis. No appointment is necessary.
Columbus Public Health Immunization Clinic Hours:
Mon: 8 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Tue: 10 a.m. – 6:15 p.m.
Wed: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Thu/Fri: 8 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Columbus Public Health may stop seeing new patients before closing hours due to high demand.
In addition to childhood vaccines, Columbus Public Health also offers free COVID-19 vaccines for anyone 12 years of age and older.
Before and After School Guidelines for TWHS Students
Your support in following these guidelines is greatly appreciated. The safety of our students is our number one priority.
Reminder: The gate located next to the tennis courts on Evening Street is closed during school hours.
FREE Meal Service Available for ALL TWHS Students for the 2021-2022 School Year
Students at TWHS will continue to receive free breakfast and lunch service. Students will be provided a traditional meal service with modified menu selections. If you have questions, please contact the Worthington Schools Food Service Department HERE.
TWHS School Calendar
Click on TWHS School Calendar to access the TWHS website calendar
October 9: Les Eisenhart Cross Country Invitational 8:00 am
October 9: Homecoming Dance 7:30 - 10:00 pm
October 11: Regular Board of Education Meeting 7:30 pm
October 13: Fall Choir Concert 7:30 pm
October 14: End of the First Grading Period
October 14: Cardinal Theatre Production of Proof 8:00 pm
October 15: NO SCHOOL, Professional Day
October 16: Cardinal Theatre Production of Proof 8:00 pm
October 17: Cardinal Theatre Production of Proof 8:00 pm
October 23: Marching Band Preview of Champions
October 23: ACT Test Day 8:00 am
October 25: Regular Board of Education Meeting 7:30 pm
October 26: PSAT/NMSQT Testing Day
Thomas Worthington High School
(614)450-6291
Principal, Pete Scully
(614)450-6206
Assistant Principal (A-D), Emilie Greenwald
(614)450-6261
Assistant Principal (E-K), Todd Keenan
(614)450-6284
Assistant Principal (L-Q), Adrienne Carr
(614)450-6284
Assistant Principal (R-Z), Brett Shaffer
(614)450-6292
Dean of Students, Scott Gordon
(614)450-6261
Athletic Director, Molly Feesler
(614)450-6288
School Counseling Chair, David Quart
(614)450-6296
Registrar, Kate Weber
Website: https://www.worthington.k12.oh.us/Page/9
Location: 300 West Dublin Granville Road, Worthington, OH, USA
Phone: (614)450-6200
Twitter: @TWHS_cardinals