60 Seconds with the Superintendent
Whitney Elementary announced A Boy Called Bat as its shared book in this year’s “One School, One Book” program this week. What is “One School, One Book?” It’s an opportunity for children and parents to spend time together reading this book at home. What other skills and outcomes is this program building in the Whitney community? Click HERE to hear from some of the staff at Whitney who are excited about this shared reading experience for their school.
MUSTANG SPOTLIGHT - MRS. KIM GARY, ART TEACHER AT MURASKI ELEMENTARY
Mrs. Kim Gary is in her 9th year teaching for Strongsville City Schools. Mrs. Gary is currently the Art Teacher at Muraski Elementary, and has also taught at the secondary level at both Albion Middle School and Strongsville Middle School. She earned her undergraduate degree from Kent State University and her graduate degree from Ashland University. Mrs. Gary is also a Strongsville resident and has children who attend Surrarrer Elementary.
“My favorite part about being an art teacher is that I get to see kids' creativity flourish and their self-esteem build through every project we complete together. It is amazing to watch them solve problems and create something they didn't know they could create until we work through it together. Seeing their pride in their work and their excitement to come to art each day is genuinely the best part of my day,” says Mrs. Gary.
“I have met some of the most amazing and caring teachers in each building I have had the pleasure of working at. I get to work with some of my best friends, and the opportunities that SCS provides its teachers to work together and collaborate consistently is the reason for that. The phenomenal staff and smiling faces of my students at Muraski make me feel so lucky that I get to come to work here every day. Having taught at various grade levels and buildings, I have had the pleasure of meeting so many students and families throughout the years. Being a Strongsville parent and community member as well, I love that I get to see current and former students throughout the community in my day to day life. It is a constant reminder of all the reasons why I love my job as an art teacher!”
Thank you Mrs. Gary for fostering creativity and building self-esteem in our Muraski students! #WeAreStrongsville
OHSAA WINTER SPORTS TOURNAMENTS - MUSTANGS ACCOMPLISHMENTS
SHS Swimmers Earn All-Ohio Honors:
Congratulations to four members of our SHS Swim Team, who were named All-Ohio last weekend based on their finish in the State Meet. The 4x200 IM Medley relay team of Nick Begany, Kyle Cononico, Conlan Mayberry, and Gibson Painter finished 14th overall at the state meet with a time of 1:36.82. It was the relay team’s best time of the season. Additionally, Nick Begany placed 15th overall in the 200 IM and 16th overall in the 100 Breast Stroke.
Nine SHS Wrestlers Advance to District Tournament:
Congratulations to the 9 SHS wrestlers who have advanced to the District Tournament this weekend in Perrysburg: Ray Lewis, 113 lbs. (Junior) / Kenny Lambert, 126 lbs. (Senior) / Dominic Grecol, 132 lbs. (Freshman) / Chris Scarvelli, 144 lbs. (Junior) / Anthony Grecol, 150 lbs. (Senior) / Nabeel Masleh, 165 lbs. (Senior) / Hayden Davis, 175 lbs. (Junior) / Dalton Bickhart, 190 lbs. (Junior) / Mike Ison, 285 lbs. (Sophomore)
SHS Freshman Gymnast Qualifies for State Meet
Congratulations to SHS Freshman Gymnast Gianna Upchurch who qualified in the bars competition for this weekend’s state meet!
3=FREE FOR LUNCHES THROUGHOUT OUR DISTRICT
Did you know that students who pack their lunch can still receive FREE food items at school? Even if you are sending your student to school with food from home, they are still able to receive a fruit, vegetable, and milk for FREE! It's convenient and saves money for families - just pack the main item for lunch and let SCS Food Services take care of the rest!
“STATE OF THE SCHOOLS” PRESENTATION - WATCH IT ON DEMAND
The annual “State of the Schools” presentation was held this past week. If you were not able to attend, Dr. Ryba’s presentation is available on demand. Visit our SCS TV website for a recording of the event, celebrating the accomplishments of our District and all that makes Strongsville City Schools special!
SUPPORT SIMB THROUGH THE PURCHASE OF DAIRY QUEEN COUPONS
Dairy Queen has teamed up with Strongsville Instrumental Music Boosters (SIMB) to sell coupons for Blizzard treats and cakes. Students involved in the instrumental music programs at SHS will be selling coupons for Blizzards at $5.00 (regular price of $5.29) or cakes at $20.00 (regular price of $25.99). Dairy Queen is generously donating 50% of all sales to benefit SIMB. Click HERE for the flyer with all of the details.
ROCKIN’ AT SMS DANCE (FRI. 4/1)
6th - 8th grade students are invited to attend the next “Rockin’ at SMS” Dance on Friday, April 1 from 6:30pm - 9:00pm. The theme of this dance is “Pink Out.” Drinks and snacks will also be served! Buy tickets for this upcoming dance HERE.
KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION INFORMATION (2022-23 SCHOOL YEAR)
Full Day Kindergarten (FDK) requests for the 2022-23 school year are currently being accepted online. Parents interested in FDK should complete this request form. Please click HERE for complete information on kindergarten registration for the 2022-23 school year.
CLASS OF 2022 / SENIOR YARD BANNERS
Celebrate your senior with a graduation yard banner! The 5 ft. x 2.5 ft. banners come in three different designs and are perfect for celebrating members of the Class of 2022. Order yours today - click HERE for additional details. Proceeds benefit Strongsville Lacrosse.
‘MAGIC GIVES BACK’ EVENT (SUN. 4/10)
Make plans for the entire family to attend the ‘Magic Gives Back’ event on Sunday, April 10 at 3pm in the Strongsville High School Auditorium. This exciting show features the unbelievable magic and stunning illusions of world-famous Rick Smith, Jr. Initial proceeds from this event will go toward the Kinsner Elementary PTA. If over 600 tickets are sold, additional proceeds will benefit Strongsville Council PTA. Invite friends and win prizes, including a backstage “Meet & Greet” and an Oculus Quest 2 - click HERE for details. Click HERE to purchase tickets.
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 Rec Center - Garage Sale
Come shop at the Strongsville Rec Center’s Annual Garage Sale on Saturday, March 19 from 9:00am - 12:00pm. Find great deals on gently used baby, kids, and maternity items, as well as toys, clothes, small furniture, and accessories. Early bird shopping beginning at 9am ($3 admission), shopping from 10am-12pm is FREE. Click HERE for the event flyer.
Right At School - Growing Along with Your Kids!
The kids we serve are the beating heart of ‘Right At School.’ As a member of our team, you’ll find no shortage of talented, passionate people ready to help you grow and succeed — all the while building a brighter future for children, families, and communities. We offer flexible scheduling options to fit into your schedule. Check out your opportunity to grow with us at https://www.rightatschool.com/careers/jobs/
Strongsville Women’s League Art Contest
Strongsville Women’s League is holding an art contest for Strongsville residents currently enrolled in grades K-5th Grade. Have you ever thought about what makes your family yours? What are the traditions that create great memories year after year? This year the Strongsville Women’s League wants to know what makes your family unique. Please create an image which shows your favorite part of being you in your family. “My favorite tradition is…”. Entries will be accepted March 14 - April 14 and can be dropped off in the main office at any elementary school. There will be 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes for grades K&1, 2&3, and 4&5 students. Artwork will be judged and prizes will be awarded on Friday, April 29. Good luck and have fun! Please contact Karen Burgund (kmbrona@aol.com) or Barb Toth (barbt4908@yahoo.com) with any questions or concerns.
Safe Sitter Class (Tues. 4/19)
Register now for the Safe Sitter Class scheduled for Tuesday, April 19 from 9am - 1:30pm in the Safety Town Building at the Strongsville Recreation Center complex. The class is designed to prepare students in grades 6-8 to be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. Click HERE for registration information.
Strongsville Spring Soccer - Register NOW!
Registration for the spring season of Strongsville Soccer is happening now for boys and girls ages 4-14. Registration deadline is March 5th, with games scheduled to begin on April 2nd. Click HERE for additional information or visit strongsvillesoccer.com.
Junior Browns Flag Football League
Register now for the Junior Browns Flag Football League. There are competitive divisions for grades KG - 6th grade. Games will be played on Sundays beginning in late March at Pat Catan Stadium. Visit strongsvillefootballbackers.com to register. Questions? Email lcirino@scsmustangs.org or jtrusnik@gmail.com. Click HERE for additional details.
Mighty Mites Lacrosse
Do you have a Kindergarten - 2nd grader that wants to learn to play lacrosse? Register for the Mighty Mites Lacrosse program at the Strongsville Rec Center. Mighty Mites takes place on Sundays from March 6 - April 10 and is coached by the SHS Lacrosse coaches and players. Click HERE for additional information and to register.
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.
March Business Luncheon
Ehrnfelt Rec/Senior Center
“State of the City” Address, presented by Mayor Perciak
Tuesday, March 15, 2022
11:30am - 1:00pm
* Doors Open at 11:15am
Strongsville Library
* Please note the following March 2022 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.
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 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 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 in-person as well as some VIRTUALLY 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/2021-Virtual-and-In-Person-classes.aspx
Strongsville Branch in-person classes:
Tuesday, March 15th / 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Internet Basics.
Wednesday, March 16th / 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Word 1.
Zoom Virtual Toddler Storytime. Wednesday, March 9th and 16th from 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and stories. You must register online to receive the Zoom link.
In-person Toddler Storytime. Ages 19 – 35 months with caregiver. Wednesday, March 30th / 10:00 – 10:25 a.m. or 11:30 – 11:55 a.m. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays and stories. Group is small and registration is required. Please register each child separately. Only the participating child and one caregiver will be admitted to the program (no siblings, please), due to social distancing space requirements. In-person programs may be held over Zoom if required by CDC and CCPL guidelines. Participants may be recorded and/or surveyed to capture this program’s effectiveness. Learn more about parent options at www.cuyahogalibrary.org/parent-options.
Zoom Virtual Storytime Preschool Age 3-5. Tuesday, March 8th and 15th from 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. and Tuesday, March 29th from 11:30 a.m. – 12:00. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and stories. You must register online to receive the Zoom link.
In-person Preschool Storytime. Ages 3-5 (Not yet in kindergarten with caregiver.) Monday, March 28th from 10:30 – 11:00 a.m. and Tuesday, March 29th from 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays and stories. Group is small and registration is required. Please register each child separately. Only the participating child and one caregiver will be admitted to the program (no siblings, please), due to social distancing space requirements. In-person programs may be held over Zoom if required by CDC and CCPL guidelines. Participants may be recorded and/or surveyed to capture this program’s effectiveness. Learn more about parent options at www.cuyahogalibrary.org/parent-options.
Zoom Virtual Storytime Baby & Me. Wednesday, March 9th and 16th from 3:00 – 3:30 p.m. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and stories. You must register online to receive the Zoom link.
In-person Baby & Me Storytime. Birth – 18 months with caregiver. Thursday, March 31st / 10:30 – 10:50 a.m. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays and stories. Group is small and registration is required. Please register each child separately. Only the participating child and one caregiver will be admitted to the program (no siblings, please), due to social distancing space requirements. In-person programs may be held over Zoom if required by CDC and CCPL guidelines. Participants may be recorded and/or surveyed to capture this program’s effectiveness. Learn more about parent options at www.cuyahogalibrary.org/parent-options.
Zoom Virtual Family Storytime. Thursday, March 10th, 17th, and 31st from 7:00 – 7:30 p.m. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and stories. You must register online to receive the Zoom link.
Glitter Stress Balls Craft. Monday, March 7th / 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. IN PERSON. All materials provided. Registration required. Please contact the Strongsville Branch Teen Librarian with any questions.
Pruning Basics: When, Why, & How? Tuesday, March 8th / 7:00 p.m. IN PERSON. Interested in improving the appearance and increasing the vigor of your landscape plants? Learn from Cuyahoga County Master Gardeners as they discuss appropriate timing and proper techniques for pruning your shrubs.
Studio Orientation. Saturday, March 12th from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. / VIRTUAL or Monday, March 21st from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. / IN-PERSON. 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 to use the spaces. Patrons 11 & up can participate in the orientation and must turn in the User Agreement form at the branch for the orientation to count. Register online to attend the virtual or in-person sessions.
Wednesday Evening Book Discussion. Wednesday, March 16th / 7:00 p.m. IN PERSON. Our Wednesday Evening Book Discussion meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month at the Strongsville Branch Library. We welcome all adults interested in reading and discussing great books! Our next discussion title will be Matrix by Lauren Groff. Copies of the book will be available for check-out at the circulation desk of the Strongsville Branch Library.
Blood Drive. Friday, March 18th / 10:15 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. In just an hour of your time you can help save up to three lives. Make sure hospital patients get the treatment they need. Donate blood today. For more information or to make an appointment, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call the American Red Cross at 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767).
Scout’s Playlist. Tuesday, March 22nd / 7:00 p.m. VIRTUAL. In this virtual event Scout's Playlist, audience members will get to know the various personalities of Maycomb County through discussions of the contemporary music that Harper Lee's beloved characters would likely have listened to. We will listen to famous recordings and explore the historical, social, and political contexts for music representing Scout, Atticus, Calpurnia, Tom Robinson, and the Ewells. Presented by Stephanie Ruozzo, Education and Engagement Associate at Cleveland Opera Theater. Register online to receive the Zoom link to participate.
Celebrate National Goof Off Day. Ages 5 – 8. Thursday, March 24th / 7:00 – 7:45 p.m. IN PERSON. Enjoy goofy stories, make a goofy craft, and guess what--- you get to be GOOFY! Did you know that there really is a National Goof Off Day, which is on March 22? We will have lots of goofy fun!
Celebrate Unicorns. Ages 5 – 8. Saturday, March 26th / 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. IN PERSON. Join us over the rainbow for a magical celebration of all things unicorn. Come dressed in your rainbow finest to listen to unicorn stories, do a unicorn craft, and dance like a unicorn. Please register only the child attending.
Monday Afternoon Book Discussion. Monday, March 28th / 2:30 p.m. IN PERSON. The Monday Afternoon Book Discussion meets at 2:30 p.m. in the Library on the 4th Monday of each month. No registration required. New members always welcome. We welcome all adults interested in reading and discussing great books! Our next discussion title will be The Island of Sea Women: a Novel by Lisa See. Copies of the book will be available for check-out at the circulation desk.
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