TWHS Weekly News & Updates
September 17, 2021
Weekly Calendar
Monday, September 20: Regular Bell Schedule
Tuesday, September 21: Regular Bell Schedule
- Orchestra Concert 7:30 pm
- PTSO Meeting 7:30 pm
Wednesday, September 22: Homeroom Bell Schedule
Parent/Teacher Conferences 3:30 - 7:10 pm
Thursday, September 23: Regular Bell Schedule
Friday, September 24: Regular Bell Schedule
Dear Cardinal Family,
"Might need some hocho* for Hoco**."
*hocho - a creative abbreviation for hot chocolate
**Hoco - who has time to say "Homecoming"??
With over 1,000 students typically in attendance, Homecoming is our first and largest dance of the year. This time will be a bit different. High schools across central Ohio have made the tough decision to host the dances outdoors. While we have been advertising it for over a week, I wanted to make sure we drew extra attention to it in the newsletter. The decision was not an easy one, and it creates more than a couple logistical challenges.
Two main areas of concern are footwear and temperature. The dance will be held at the stadium on the turf, so heels will not be permitted. Soles must be flat. Going barefoot (typical for heel-wearers at our formal dances) is a possibility, but it may not be ideal with dew on the turf and temperatures dipping under 60 degrees. To ward off the cold, we have decided to add our annual bonfire during the dance. We felt like this would be a great and functional opportunity in the cooler weather.
We're excited to be able to host our first Homecoming since 2019! We think it will certainly be a memorable event. We're already seeing signs (literally and figuratively) that kids are excited, as well.
Thanks for your support. It's gratifying to help kids make some good memories.
Have a great weekend and go Cards!
Sincerely,
Pete Scully
Principal
TWHS
**New Announcements this Week**
- 2022 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists
- Please Review the Attendance Policy
- Substitute Teacher Job Opportunities in Worthington Schools
- Veteran's Day Celebration
- Master Facilities Plan Follow up Survey
- TWHS STEM Team & Engineering Program Recognition
** ACADEMIC UPDATES**
2022 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists
The 67th annual National Merit Scholarship Program has announced the names of this years Semifinalists. About 1.5 million juniors entered the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2020 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®). The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, which represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number of Semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors. In early September, approximately 16,000 students were notified that they had qualified as Semifinalists.
Thomas Worthington High School is proud to announce the following students are Semifinalists in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program:
- Nikhila Elevarthi
- Sydney K. MacGilvray
- Autumn J. Novak
- Elliott D. Scully
- Benjamin A. Smith
- Grant H. Witherspoon
Congratulations to all!
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
Parent/Teacher Conferences: Wednesday, September 22nd & Thursday, September 30th
Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Wednesday, September 22nd from 3:30 - 7:10 pm and again on Thursday, September 30th from 4:30 - 8:10 pm. Families can request to meet in person, via ZOOM or by phone with teachers when scheduling their conferences. Online scheduling will open on Monday, September 13 at 8:00 a.m. Please CLICK HERE for more information about scheduling parent/teacher conferences with your student’s teachers.
ATTENTION FRESHMEN!
Do you want to lead your class and school? Do you want to play a major role in shaping and carrying out some of the biggest events at TWHS? Do you want to help have a positive impact on our community? Then you should run to be a part of the Freshman Class Student Council! Applications and more information can be found in Mrs. Davidson's room 126. Class Officer and Representative Applications are due by 9/27. See Mrs. Davidson in room 126 with any questions!
TWHS STEM Team & Engineering Program Recognition
Thomas Worthington High School’s STEM Team and Engineering Program are proud to be recognized for the 3rd year in a row as a Project Lead the Way Distinguished School.
PLTW Distinguished Program Recognition celebrates districts and schools committed to helping students own their education by increasing student access, engagement, and achievement in their PLTW programs.
The TWHS program is also acknowledged for empowering their students to unlock their potential by developing the in-demand, real-world knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in life beyond the classroom.
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 to thomasworthybk@gmail.com 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.”
- Send to: thomasworthybk@gmail.com (it must be a *jpeg or .png)
- Use THIS FORMAT for the student’s file name: Last name_First Name
No late photos will be accepted.
Class of '22: Important Dates for Ordering Cap & Gown
Don't miss out on early bird pricing! Purchase your cap/gown/tassel for $28.95 before the October 1st price increase. 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.
** 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
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 this 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.
Click Attendance Philosophy & Procedure for important information regarding your child's absence from school.
Cardinal Theatre Production September, 18th at 8:00 pm
Happiness is great musical theatre! With charm, wit, and heart, You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown explores life through the eyes of Charlie Brown and his friends in the Peanuts gang. This revue of songs and vignettes, based on the beloved Charles Schulz comic strip, is perfect for all ages!
**Tickets can no longer be purchased at the box office the night of the show. You must pre-purchase your ticket online for all performances.**
For more information about the 2021-22 Theatre Season, visit www.twhstheatre.org
Picture Retake Day: Wednesday, September 29th
If your child still needs to have their picture taken or you would like to have pictures retaken, Lifetouch will be at TWHS on Wednesday, September 29th. You may order before picture day at www.mylifetouch.com with the Picture Day ID: EVT9TKFM9
Order Your Yearbook!
Click HERE for more information.
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: September 21, November 16, January 18, March 15 and May 17.
TWHS Car Magnets
You can still purchase your TWHS Car Magnets for $6.00 (cash or check). A wide variety of magnets are offered. Please contact the TWHS Lady Cards Softball Program.
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. Students with an incomplete immunization record will not be able to attend classes as of September 15, 2021.
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.
Important Reminder Regarding Food Allergies
This serves as a reminder that there may be some students in your child’s school who have peanut and/or tree nut allergies. As the safety of our children is paramount to all, we need your support to make our cafeteria “nut free”. A child with a nut allergy can suffer a serious reaction merely by touching a food containing a peanut or tree nut. Therefore, we ask that you adhere to the following safety guidelines:
Please do not send in any peanuts, peanut butter, or foods containing peanuts or peanut butter to be eaten during lunch.
Read ingredient labels carefully to ensure that the snacks sent in with your child are peanut and tree nut-free.
Please do not hesitate to contact Julie Frank with any questions or concerns about food allergies. She can be reached at 614-450-6215 or jfrank@wscloud.org.
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
September 18: Cardinal Theatre Production You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown 8:00 pm
September 21: Orchestra Concert 7:30 pm
September 21: PTSO Meeting 7:30 pm
September 22: Parent/Teacher Conferences 3:30 - 7:10 pm
September 27: Regular Board of Education Meeting 7:30 pm
September 29: Picture Retake Day
September 29: Band Concert 7:30 pm
September 30: Parent/Teacher Conferences 4:40 - 8:10 pm
September 30: Deadline to Purchase Yearbooks at the Lowest Price of the Year
September 30: Deadline to Purchase Cap & Gown at Discounted Price
October 8: TWHS Homecoming Football Game 7:00 pm
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
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