Mustang Moments
News From Strongsville City Schools (2016-17 Vol I, Iss 8)
Strong Schools. Strong Community. Strongsville
In This Issue - October 14, 2016
- Important Dates to Remember
- 60 Seconds with the Superintendent
- K-5 Go Math! Program Parent Meeting
- Serpentini Car Raffle
- Curriculum Advisory Committee
- Early Release Schedule
- “Fill the Bus” for the Strongsville Food Bank - Friday, October 28
- Mustang Spotlight - Early Learning Preschool Secretary Mrs. Marie Palanca
- Community Conversation at Tom+Chee - Thursday, October 27
- Strongsville City Schools Quality Profile
- Did You Know? (Curriculum)
- Issue 120 - Strongsville City Schools Renewal Levy
- Inaugural 'Greet & Treat' Event - Wednesday, October 26
- Strongsville Jump Rope Club
- Community Events
Important Dates to Remember
TONIGHT (Fri., 10/14)
Rockin’ at the Rec Dance (6th-8th Grade) - 6:30-9:00pm
at Strongsville Rec Center
Thursday, October 20 - 7pm
Board of Education Meeting (Administration Building)
Friday, October 21
Early Release Day (see schedule below)
Wednesday, October 26 - 6-8pm
Community “Greet & Treat” Event at Strongsville Middle School
Thursday, October 27 - 5:30pm-7:30pm
Community Conversation with Superintendent Ryba (“SCS & Technology”) at Tom+Chee
Friday, October 28 - 7pm
“Fill The Bus” for the Strongsville Food Bank
at the Strongsville/Brunswick Varsity Football Game
60 Seconds With The Superintendent
This week’s episode visits with Erin Green, Director of Curriculum, and Brian Tumino, Assistant Principal at Strongsville High School, as they highlight the various Advanced Placement (AP) courses at the high school, as well as the updates to our Social Studies curriculum for the District. Click HERE to learn more about our curriculum and the impact it has on readying our students for college and career.
K-5 GO MATH! PROGRAM PARENT MEETING
For those parents interested in learning more about the Go Math! Program, please plan to attend a meeting on Monday, October 17 at 6:00pm at the Strongsville Schools Administrative Offices (18199 Cook Ave.). Click HERE for more details on this informational night.
SERPENTINI CAR RAFFLE
There is still time to enter to win a 2016 Chevy Cruze, courtesy of The Chevy Network & Serpentini Chevrolet of Strongsville! Raffle tickets are available for $10 each and may be purchased in the Athletic Department at Strongsville High School, at the Strongsville Spirit Shop at the Rec Center, and from various student groups and Strongsville organizations. All proceeds benefit the Strongsville City School District, as well as other Strongsville school and community groups enhancing the the educational opportunities of all students in our district. Ticket sales end on Friday, October 21. Drawing will be held on Friday, October 28th at the Strongsville/Brunswick football game at Pat Catan Stadium. Click HERE for more information.
CURRICULUM ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Strongsville City Schools is looking for approximately six parents interested in being part of a community Curriculum Advisory Committee. This committee will meet 2-3 times a year from approximately 6:00pm-8:00pm and will assist the Director of Curriculum with PreK-12th grade curricular issues. Some of these issues may involve helping/ providing feedback with textbook recommendations and adoptions, approving district novels, providing feedback on curricular initiatives, etc. We are asking for a 2-year commitment if you are selected. No curriculum background is needed to take part. If interested, please complete the brief survey HERE.
EARLY RELEASE SCHEDULE
In accordance with the Strongsville City School District's adopted 2016-17 academic calendar, the district will hold three (3) early release days - Friday, October 21; Friday, March 10; Wednesday, June 7. Please click HERE for additional details on adjusted timings for early release days.
“FILL THE BUS” FOR THE STRONGSVILLE FOOD BANK FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28
Bring a canned food donation to the Strongsville/Brunswick varsity football game on Friday, October 28 and help us “fill the bus” for the Strongsville Food Bank.
The Food Bank is especially in need of the following items: canned soup, canned tuna fish, canned fruits, canned vegetables, and boxes of Kleenex.
Look for the Strongsville School Bus in front of Pat Catan Stadium on Friday, October 28th - let’s fill it for the food bank!
MUSTANG SPOTLIGHT - EARLY LEARNING PRESCHOOL SECRETARY MRS. MARIE PALANCA
Mrs. Marie Palanca is the secretary for the Early Learning Preschool and has worked for 13 years in our District.
Strongsville City Schools is the work home for both Marie and her husband, Rodello. Strongsville has also been home for the Palanca family, with three daughters who have graduated from Strongsville High School.
“I look forward to coming to work every day. There is nothing better then the smiling happy faces of our students. The staff of the preschool welcomed me with open arms and has always been a supportive and positive group to work with. I have found a home with Strongsville City Schools and could not imagine working elsewhere,” said Mrs. Palanca.
Thanks Mrs. Palanca for being the friendly face that greets people every day at our Early Learning Preschool and for getting our ‘mini-mustangs’ ready for kindergarten!
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION WITH SUPERINTENDENT RYBA AT TOM+CHEE
Join Superintendent Ryba at the next Community Conversation on Thursday, October 27 from 5:30-7:30pm at the new Tom+Chee. The focus will be on how technology is being integrated into Strongsville City Schools and the impact it has on a daily basis with our students. The District’s Director of Instructional Technology, Vicki Turner, will also be there to answer questions and provide additional insight.
STRONGSVILLE CITY SCHOOLS QUALITY PROFILE
The Strongsville City School District has completed its first Quality Profile. This twelve page document provides an overview of the District and the many ways students, teachers, staff, and administration are contributing to the growth and development of Strongsville City Schools’ students. The Quality Profile is being mailed to over 20,000 homes and businesses in Strongsville. Click HERE to view an online version of the this Quality Profile highlighting the accomplishments of the students, teachers, staff, and administration in our District.
DID YOU KNOW?
Did you know the following about Strongsville City Schools curriculum and the ways we are preparing our students for college and career?
+ Strongsville High School offers 24 Advanced Placement (AP) courses for students
+ Honors courses begin in the sixth grade in all four content areas (Language Arts, Math, Science, & Social Studies)
+ Strongsville High School has added an Air Force Junior ROTC program, focusing on aeronautics
+ Strongsville Middle School has added several course offerings this year, including Robotics & Medical Detectives, Principles of Food, and Career Connections
ISSUE 120 - STRONGSVILLE CITY SCHOOLS RENEWAL LEVY
Strongsville City Schools will be placing a renewal levy (Issue 120) on the November 8, 2016 ballot. This is a renewal of an existing operating levy and is not a tax increase. Issue 120 means continuation of the high quality education for our students and community by ensuring:
- Up-to-date textbooks and learning materials to prepare students for college and career
- Access to honors and advanced placement courses
- Bus transportation throughout the community
- Integration of technology into student learning
- Class sizes at an optimum level for student learning
- Co- and extra-curricular opportunities for student involvement
INAUGURAL 'GREET & TREAT' EVENT - WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26
Strongsville City School’s SPOT (Strongsville Positive Outreach Team) Committee is proud to present the inaugural community “Greet & Treat” event at Strongsville Middle School from 6-8pm on Wednesday, October 26th. This event is open to all students, staff, and the Strongsville community. Please bring a non-perishable food or monetary donation to the Strongsville Food Bank. See you on October 26th for a special Halloween celebration! Click HERE for the event details.
STRONGSVILLE JUMP ROPE CLUB
Would your child be interested in joining a city-wide jump rope club for the 2016-2017 school year? If interested, please click HERE to complete a survey which will help with planning for this club. Please call Dot Hepp at 216.924.1475 or email dot.hepp@roadrunner.com with additional questions related to the jump rope club. Please complete the survey by October 21st.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Southwest General ‘Safe Sitter’ Classes
Southwest General, partnering with University Hospitals, presents “Safe Sitter” classes. Keep your child safe while home alone or when babysitting. Safe Sitter is a nationally recognized program, developed by a pediatrician, designed to teach both boys and girls (ages 11 -14) how to be safe and responsible sitters. Call Southwest General at 440.816.8036 to register.
Strongsville Historical Society
Old Fashioned Safe Trick or Treat in the Village - Saturday, October 22 (3:00-4:30pm)
The Strongsville Historical Society is having their 8th annual Trick or Treat in the Strongsville Historic Village on Saturday, October 22nd for preschool through kindergarten age children. Admission is one non-perishable food item or $1 per person donated to the Strongsville Emergency Food Bank. Children must be accompanied by adults. Strongsville Historic Village consists of eight historic buildings on two acres at the corner of Pearl Road and Zverina Drive just two blocks North of Royalton Road (Rte. 82). The “Villagers” will be in costumes appropriate for the “wee” ones. They will be handing out treats (candy and prizes) to the costumed guests. There will be games and refreshments. This is an opportunity for the younger children to have a safe Halloween in the daytime. Reservations are a MUST by October 18th. Please call 440.572.0535 for reservations and questions.
“Down by the Old Mill Stream Run” with Cleveland Metroparks Historian Judy MacKeigan - Tuesday, October 25 (7:00pm)
On Tuesday October 25th, the Strongsville Historical Society will hold their monthly general event at 7:00pm in the Strongsville Branch of the Cuyahoga County Library (18700 Westwood Dr.). Cleveland Metroparks Historian, Judy MacKeigan, will present “Down by the Old Mill Stream Run”. This promises to be informal, informative and indeed entertaining. Join the community to learn more about the Metroparks Mill Stream Reservation. Please RSVP by calling the library (440.238.5530). For additional questions, please call 440.572.0057 or visit www.strongsvillehistoricalsociety.org.
Strongsville Chamber of Commerce
Please note the following events hosted by the Strongsville Chamber of Commerce. Registration is required for all events. Please call 440.238.3366 to register or for more information. Those interested may also visit www.strongsvillechamber.com to register and to see more event information.
October Luncheon - State of the Schools Address by Superintendent, Cameron Ryba
Tuesday, October 18th at 11:30am at the Strongsville Holiday Inn. Cost is just $20 per person.
Strongsville Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Committee
Community Organizations Showcase Event
Get involved in your community! Strongsville’s many community organizations will be at Buffalo Wild Wings on Thursday, October 20th at 5:30pm. We encourage EVERYONE to attend this highly informative, networking event. Cost is just $20 per person which includes food & beverages.
Business After Hours Event – Hosted by Olympia Sweet Treats & Grill
Thursday, November 3rd from 5:30-7:30pm
Strongsville Chamber members are free! Future members cost just $10 per person.
Holiday Scholarship Dance. Friday, December 2nd. 7:00pm at Michaud’s
Contact the Chamber now to reserve your table! $350 for a table of 10 or $70 per couple.
100% of ticket sale revenue goes toward scholarships
FitKids at Empowering Punch
Empowering Punch in Strongsville offers youth fitness classes for boys and girls ages 3-12. It’s a great way to burn off some energy, and builds self confidence by learning new skills and becoming more physically fit. No experience is ever necessary and the classes are suitable for any fitness level. Visit www.epoweringpunch.com/fitness_classes/youth-fitness/ for additional details.
Strongsville Library
Please note the following October 2016 events at the Strongsville Branch Library. Registration is required for most events. Please call (440) 238-5530 to register or for more information. All events sponsored by our Friends of Strongsville Branch Library. Customers may also visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org to register and to see more library event information.
Year-Round Story Times!
Cuyahoga County Public Library offers story time sessions year-round for children Birth to Age 5. Our current story time sessions are in full swing! Please call the library for more information about our Fall story time sessions.
Just 4 You Student Friends Volunteers. Ages 10-18. Saturday, October 15th from 2:00 - 3:15 p.m.
Join Just 4 U Student Friends and get involved at the Strongsville Branch and in your community. Pick up an application at the Teen Desk.
National Chemistry Week - Solving Mysteries Through Chemistry. Grades 3 - 6. Saturday, October 15th from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Come join us for fun, hands on activities that let you get close to the action! Be prepared to get in and get messy. Led by volunteers from the American Chemical Society. We invite families to stay and participate.
Parkfit Mall Walkers Wellness Talk: "I Like Change...Only if it's Money!" Tuesday, October 18th from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
This month's speaker will be Marlene Kurz, from LISW Oakview talking about dealing with change. The ParkFit Mall Walkers Club is a combined effort of Southwest General and SouthPark Mall in Strongsville. The Club provides an opportunity for community residents to improve their health by walking for exercise in a safe, interesting and climate-controlled facility. Walk at the mall first, then come over to the Library for this informative wellness talk!
Wednesday Evening Book Discussion. Meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. New Members Welcome! Our next discussion will be on Wednesday, October 19th. This month we will be discussing StationEleven by Emily St. John Mandel. Copies of the book will be available at the check-out desk. Registration for this program is not needed. Join us for an evening of great discussion!
Little Pumpkins. Ages 2 - 4. Friday, October 21st from 10:00 a.m. - Noon.
Calling all toddlers! This pumpkin-themed program is geared for the little pumpkins in your life, ages 2-4. Join us for stories, crafts, and games featuring pumpkins. Prepare to get messy with many fun hands-on activities. Please register each child separately. Space is limited. Registration begins on Friday, October 7.
Monday Afternoon Book Discussion. Meets the 4th Monday of each month at 2:30 p.m.
New Members Welcome! Our next discussion will be held on Monday, October 24th. This month we will be discussing Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee. Copies of the book will be available for check-out at the circulation desk. Join us for great conversation!
Down by the Old Mill Stream Run. Tuesday, October 25th at 7:00 p.m.
The Strongsville Historical Society presents this special Metroparks presentation. Cleveland Metroparks Historian, Judy MacKeigan, presents, Down by the Old Mill Stream Run, an informal, entertaining, history of Mill Stream Run Reservation. A short Strongsville Historical Society meeting will precede the presentation.
Tales from the Eerie Shore - Ghosts of Ohio. Wednesday, October 26th at 7:00 p.m.
Join us for an evening of storytelling with award-winning authors, ghost hunters, and para-historians Theresa Argie and Cathi Weber - aka The Haunted Housewives. Gather 'round our virtual campfire for true tales of ghoulish ghosts and creepy cryptids. Ohio’s Heartland is filled with strange creatures, fascinating places, and restless spirits. It’s a spine-tingling tour of the most interesting paranormal hotspots of the north coast and beyond!
Hearing Screenings. Thursday, October 27th from 9:00 a.m. - Noon.
Southwest General Community Nurses are hosting a free hearing screening which will be offered by ENT Health Services, Inc. from Southwest General Health Center. Please call 440-816-4037 for an appointment.
Play, Learn, & Grow. Birth - 3 Years Old with Parent/Caregiver. Friday, October 28th from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Children will play with developmentally appropriate toys in a play group atmosphere while parents meet and learn from community health experts. Registration begins on Friday, October 14.
Stay Connected with Strongsville City Schools
Strongsville High School * Muraski Elementary *
Strongsville Middle School * Surrarrer Elementary *
Chapman Elementary * Whitney Elementary *
Kinsner Elementary * Early Learning Preschool
Website: www.strongnet.org
Location: Strongsville City Schools, 18199 Cook Avenue, Strongsville, OH, United States
Phone: (440) 572-7000
Facebook: facebook.com/strongsvillecs
Twitter: @strongsvillecs