Mustang Moments
Strongsville City Schools News (2021-22 Vol 6, Iss 5)
We Are Strongsville
IN THIS ISSUE - September 10, 2021
Important Dates to Remember
60 Seconds with the Superintendent
2021-22 SCS District Operating Procedures
Featured “SCS Job of the Week” + Additional Openings for Strongsville City Schools
Mustang Spotlight - Mrs. Jessica Laux, 2nd Grade Teacher at Whitney Elementary
SHS Senior Amelia Matousek Earns GCC Athlete of the Month Award
DARE Calendar of Events for 5th-8th Graders
Immunization Requirements For 7th & 12th Graders (2021-2022 School Year)
Join SHS Athletic Boosters
‘Right At School’ to Offer Before- & After-School Care in Our District for 2021-22
Join Strongsville Instrumental Music Boosters
Stay Safe. Speak Up!
Community Events
Important Dates to Remember
Thursday, September 16 - 7:00pm
Strongsville Board of Education Meeting*
SCS Administrative Offices (18199 Cook Ave.)
* SCS Board of Education Meetings are live streamed HERE
Wednesday, September 29
Parent/Teacher Conferences (Grades 9-12)
(Evening Conferences / School in Session)
Thursday, September 30
Parent/Teacher Conferences (Grades PreK-5)
(Evening Conferences / School in Session)
Tuesday, October 5
Parent/Teacher Conferences (Grades 6-12)
(Evening Conferences / School in Session)
Wednesday, October 6
Parent/Teacher Conferences (Grades PreK-8)
(Evening Conferences / School in Session)
Thursday, October 7 - 7:00pm
Strongsville Board of Education Meeting*
SCS Administrative Offices (18199 Cook Ave.)
* SCS Board of Education Meetings are live streamed HERE
Did You Know?
Did you know that Strongsville City Schools has a renewal levy (Issue 68) on the upcoming November ballot? This is a renewal levy, which means there are no new taxes. This is the renewal of a 5-year limited operating levy that was originally passed in August of 2002 and most recently approved by voters in November of 2016. This renewal levy ensures we are able to continue provide up-to-date educational resources, technology, supports, and opportunities to continue to achieve our goal of being a premier school district for our students and the families/community we serve.
60 Seconds with the Superintendent
Our Strongsville Early Learning Preschool provides valuable resources, interventions, and support for all of our youngest learners. Click HERE for this week’s ‘60 Seconds’ episode, to hear from a few of the staff who are building foundational skills and preparing our preschoolers for the next step in their educational journey.
2021-22 SCS DISTRICT OPERATING PROCEDURES
FEATURED “SCS JOB OF THE WEEK” + ADDITIONAL OPENINGS FOR STRONGSVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
Strongsville City Schools are hiring for a number of different positions in our District. We are looking for motivated and enthusiastic workers who are interested in being a part of the growth and development of Strongsville students. Our featured 'SCS Job of the Week' is Substitute Teachers. We are also currently accepting applications for the following: Substitute Support Staff, Food Services, Custodians, and Bus Drivers. All open positions currently available in our District can be viewed here. Start your SCS application here. Questions? Contact our Human Resources office at 440.572.7038 or 440.572.7037.
MUSTANG SPOTLIGHT - MRS. JESSICA LAUX, 2ND GRADE TEACHER AT WHITNEY ELEMENTARY
Mrs. Jessica Laux is in her 22nd year of teaching for Strongsville City Schools. Mrs. Laux is a 2nd grade teacher at Whitney Elementary School, and has also taught at Drake Elementary School. She has earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Baldwin Wallace University.
“My all-time favorite part of working with second graders is seeing how much they grow in a school year! I have learned to never underestimate what their minds are capable of learning, especially when something is taught in a way that encourages their way of thinking! I love seeing their faces when they understand something new or learn something new! Their excitement for learning is what makes being a teacher the best job,” said Mrs. Laux.
“Each day brings new challenges, but these challenges are what makes both my students and myself grow. We grow together in our classroom with laughter, understanding, and a positive mindset. Our classroom creates a bond even with all of our differences that allows for encouragement when mistakes are made, as well as enthusiasm for accomplishments!”
Thank you Mrs. Laux for creating a classroom atmosphere that emphasizes encouragement and enthusiasm, and continues to develop positive mindsets in your students! #WeAreStrongsville
SHS SENIOR AMELIA MATOUSEK EARNS GCC ATHLETE OF THE MONTH AWARD
Congratulations to SHS Senior and Girls Tennis student-athlete Amelia Matousek for earning Greater Cleveland Conference Athlete of the Month recognition for August. After a 20-6 campaign last year predominately at second singles, Amelia has started off the 2021 season with a 6-1 record including victories over Wadsworth (6-1,6-0), Aurora (6-3, 6-1), and a victory in the first round of the OTCA match vs Howland (6-4, 6-0).
DARE CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR 5TH-8TH GRADERS
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS FOR 7TH & 12TH GRADERS (2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR)
Please note the following immunization requirements from the Ohio Department of Health
All students entering 7th grade need to receive the following immunizations prior to entering 7th grade: One (1) dose of Meningococcal [MCV4] vaccine (a second dose of meningococcal vaccine will be required prior to entry into the 12th grade) & One (1) dose of Tdap [tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis] vaccine
All students entering 12th grade need to receive the following immunizations prior to entering 12th grade: Two (2) doses of Meningococcal [MCV4] vaccine
Incoming 7th and 12th graders will need to show proof of having received these vaccines before they can return to school for the 2021-22 school year (exemptions are provided for under law, call for more information).
Click HERE for the form to confirm immunizations for 7th graders
Click HERE for the form to confirm immunizations for 12th graders
Section 3313.671 of the Ohio Revised Code states that students who do not provide documentation of this immunization will be excluded from school on the 15th day after entrance, until proof is provided.
JOIN SHS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS
The Strongsville Athletic Boosters is comprised of parent volunteers that raise funds and provide support to all of the Strongsville High School and Middle School athletic programs and student-athletes. Every dollar raised by the booster club is invested back into the student-athlete experience. We purchase uniforms, warm-ups, training equipment and other items to help our student-athletes perform to the best of their ability in representing Strongsville City Schools. Our ultimate success depends on the commitment of parents! Click HERE to join the Athletic Boosters for the 2021-2022 school year. Click HERE for additional details and benefits of joining Athletic Boosters.
‘RIGHT AT SCHOOL’ TO OFFER BEFORE- & AFTER-SCHOOL CARE IN OUR DISTRICT FOR 2021-22
Our District is excited to announce a partnership agreement with the nationally recognized school enrichment provider, Right At School, to provide before- and after-school care for elementary students for the 2021-22 school year. Right at School will be offering before- and after-school care every weekday (Monday-Friday) at each of the elementary school buildings in our District. For additional information, please visit their website dedicated to the newly established Strongsville Schools program (https://rightatschool.com/districts/Strongsville-oh).
JOIN STRONGSVILLE INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC BOOSTERS
Strongsville Instrumental Music Boosters (SIMB) Annual Membership Drive begins this week! Come join the fun, while benefiting our music students! Everyone's entered into a gift card raffle! Only $25 to join. New this year: Alumni membership. Click HERE for additional information and to join today!
STAY SAFE. SPEAK UP!
Strongsville City Schools encourages students, teachers, staff, parents, and other members of our community to report any instances of potential violence, bullying, self-harm or any other issue where students may be at risk. Click HERE for additional Stay Safe. Speak Up! Information on the District’s website. Reporting incidents can be made anonymously online or through a toll free number (1-866-listen2me / 1-866-547-8362).
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Strongsville City Club - Breakfast on the Covered Bridge (Sun. 9/19)
Please join the Strongsville City Club for the 38TH ANNUAL “Breakfast on the Covered Bridge” event on Sunday, September 19 from 7:30am - 12:30pm. It has been a hit with all who attend and come back year after year! Additional details are available at the Strongsville City Club website
LOCATION: Walter F. Ehrnfelt Covered Bridge in the Cleveland Metroparks
ADMISSION: Adult Donation: $10.00 Advance / $11.00 Day of Breakfast; Kids 10 & Under: $5.00 Advance / $6.00 Day of Breakfast
ADVANCE TICKET SALES: Tickets are available at the Ehrnfelt Recreation Center or from Strongsville City Club Member Bill Ritchie (440) 238-5770
Strongsville Women’s League Candidates Night (Tues 9/21)
Want to learn more about the candidates running for Strongsville City Council and Strongsville Board of Education? Four candidates are running for three At-Large City Council seats and three residents are running to fill two Board of Education seats in November. The Strongsville Women's League is hosting a Candidates' Night on Tuesday, September 21 at 6pm at the Ehrnfelt Recreation Center (18100 Royalton Rd.) where you can hear each candidate respond to questions submitted by the audience during the event. To remain fair and unbiased, the event will be moderated by a member of the League of Women Voters.
Mustangs Lacrosse - FREE Skills Clinics
It’s that time of year again! Time for free lacrosse Fall skills clinics. These are for current players as well as kids who want to try out lacrosse as a new sport. We are also looking for donations of old equipment for new players to try the sport. Please contact us if you have some to borrow or spare. Please click HERE for more information.
School Crossing Guards Wanted
The Strongsville Police Department is now hiring school crossing guards. Interested individuals must be at least 18 years of age, of good moral character, and have the ability to remain outdoors in all types of weather conditions for up to one (1) hour. Starting pay is $12.75 per hour. For more information, please contact Lt. Michael Campbell at 440.580.3224 or click HERE for additional information.
Strongsville Community Theatre - “A Tribute to Broadway” (Oct. 29-30)
Join the Strongsville Community Theatre’s performance of “A Tribute to Broadway” on Friday, October 29 & Saturday, October 30 at the Strongsville Recreation and Senior Center (18100 Royalton Rd.). Seating is limited and tickets are available by reservation ONLY. Visit strongsvillecommunitytheatre.com to purchase tickets. This show is a fundraiser to benefit the scholarship program for high school students.
Strongsville Chamber of Commerce
Please note the following upcoming events hosted by the Strongsville Chamber of Commerce. Registration is required for all events. Please call 440.238.3366 for more information or to register. Those interested in the following events may also visit the Chamber website (www.strongsvillechamber.com) to register and to see additional details.
September Business BREAKFAST
“Get to Know Your Candidates” Breakfast with City Council and School Board Candidates
Ehrnfelt Senior/Rec Event Center
Tuesday, September 21, 2021 7:15am* - 9:00am (Breakfast Buffet begins at 7:30am)
*Please note time adjustments
*Doors open at 7:15am
October Business BREAKFAST
“State of the Schools” Presentation with Dr. Cameron Ryba
Ehrnfelt Senior/Rec Event Center
Tuesday, October 19, 2021 7:15am* – 9:00am (Breakfast Buffet begins at 7:30am)
*Please note time adjustments
*Doors open at 7:15am
2021 Strongsville Business Expo
Ehrnfelt Senior/Rec Event Center
Thursday, November 4, 2021
5:00pm - 7:00pm
See what more than 100 local businesses have to offer at the Strongsville Community Business Expo on November 4th at the Ehrnfelt Rec Center (18100 Royalton Rd.). This free event is open to the public and includes giveaways, free food samples, product demonstrations, and door prizes.
Strongsville Library
***Please note the following September 2021 events being held on ZOOM virtually and presented by the Strongsville Branch Library. Registration and an email address are required for all events in order for us to send you the Zoom invitation. Please call (440) 238-5530 to register or for more information. Customers may also visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org to register and to see more library event information.
***All branches of Cuyahoga County Public Library and the Administration Building will be closed on Sunday, September 5th and Monday, September 6th for the Labor Day Holiday. We will resume normal hours on Tuesday, September 7th.
Cuyahoga Works – Need help with your resume or interview skills? A Cuyahoga Works Career Counselor will be at the Strongsville Branch on Thursdays from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. to meet with individuals in need of job search assistance. For more information, visit https://cuyahogalibrary.org/Services/Cuyahoga-Works.aspx To schedule an appointment, please call (216) 475-2225.
English as a Second Language. IN PERSON Thursdays & Fridays from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Aspire Greater Cleveland is once again teaching IN-PERSON classes to help non-native speakers learn English and validate their skills. Students must attend an ESOL/Citizenship orientation session before beginning ESOL or citizenship classes. If you are interested in attending these ESOL classes, please call Aspire at 833.277.4732 to register.
Computer Classes
Cuyahoga County Public Library offers computer classes for beginners to advanced. Classes are currently being held VIRTUALLY using the program Screenleap which requires a web browser and an internet connection. There is no additional software to download. Google Chrome is the recommended browser. A valid email address is required for registration. Registrants will receive an email with a link to join the class at least an hour before the start time. Registration opens 30 days before the start of the class and closes prior to the start of the class. To see a full class list, descriptions, and to register, please visit
https://www.cuyahogalibrary.org/Events/Computer-Classes/Virtual-Classes.aspx
Take & Make At Home Crafts!
Stop into the Strongsville Branch to see what the current take it and make it craft of the month is for All Ages. Each month the Youth, Teen, and Adult Departments are offering free craft kits to take home while supplies last.
Fall Into Health. Tuesday, September 14th, 21st, and 28th / 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. CSU nursing students along with licensed RN will provide health screenings, one-on-one chronic disease education and general health education with the focus being overall health and wellness.
Zoom Virtual Preschool Storytime. Tuesdays, September 21st, and 28th from 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and stories. You must register online to receive the Zoom link.
Zoom Virtual Toddler Storytime. Wednesday, September 22nd and 29th from 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and stories. You must register online to receive the Zoom link.
Zoom Virtual Storytime Baby & Me. Wednesday, September 22nd, and 29th from 3:00 – 3:30 p.m. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and stories. You must register online to receive the Zoom link.
Zoom Virtual Family Storytime. Thursdays, September 23rd, and 30th from 7:00 – 7:30 p.m. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and stories. You must register online to receive the Zoom link.
Virtual Studio Orientation. Saturday, September 11th from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. or Monday, September 27th from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Have you ever thought about recording your own music, making a video, digitizing memories and more? The Strongsville Branch Library is home to both Audio and Video Recording studios that can help you do just that! You must go through an orientation in order to use the spaces. These orientations will be held VIRTUALLY ONLY. Patrons 11 & up can participate in the orientation and must turn in the User Agreement form at the branch in order for the orientation to count. Register online to receive the Zoom link.
Galaxy in a Jar. Teens in Grades 6 – 12. IN PERSON - Monday, September 13th / 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Learn about the universe while creating your own galaxy to take home in a mason jar. Registration for this in-person event begins August 9th at 9:00 a.m.
Colorful Shrubs Through the Seasons. Tuesday, September 14th / 7:00 p.m. With a bit of planning, you can create a welcoming and colorful landscape year round. The key is to plant perennials and shrubs that bloom at all different times of the year. The Master Gardeners of Cuyahoga County will introduce you to combinations of perennials, shrubs, and even small trees to achieve this effect. Register online to receive the Zoom link.
Wednesday Evening Book Discussion. Wednesday, September 15th / 7:00 p.m. Our Wednesday Evening Book Discussion has gone VIRTUAL and will be live on Zoom at 7 p.m. on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We welcome all adults interested in reading and discussing great books! Our next discussion title will be Lady in the Lake by Laura Lippman. Copies of the book will be available for check-out at the circulation desk of the Strongsville Branch Library. Register online to receive the Zoom link.
First Page Book Club. Teens in Grades 6 – 12. Monday, September 20th / 7:00 – 7:45 p.m. The Strongsville Teen librarian will read the first page of a few teen books of various genres. We will then discuss other books we have read and enjoyed. Register online to receive the Zoom link.
Southwest General Health Talk: You May Be Losing More Sleep. Tuesday, September 21st / 10:00 a.m. Everyone has an occasional restless night, but if sleepless nights are persistent, it can affect your health! A Southwest General Pharmacist will discuss ways to improve your sleep hygiene! Learn about medications that may cause insomnia and medications that may help. Register online to receive the Zoom link.
Six Wives of Henry VIII. Thursday, September 23rd / 7:00 p.m. Divorced, Beheaded, Died, Divorced, Beheaded, Survived. These were the fates of the six wives of Henry the VIII. Susan Cannavino will talk about each woman's personality, personal life and circumstances, as well as Henry the VIII's. You will be transported back to 16th century British court life. Register online to receive the Zoom link.
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