Dear CCS Community,

As we begin the month of March, celebrating National Women's Month feels like opening a book full of stories of resilience, courage, and triumph. It's a time to reflect on the journey of women who have paved the way for freedom, rights, and equality, reminding me of the women in my life.

It's about my grandmother, who shared tales of a time when her voice was considered less significant because of her gender, and my mother, who worked tirelessly to shatter the glass ceilings above her.

I am honored to spotlight Columbus Board of Education President Christina Vera, a beacon of dedication and leadership within our educational community. President Vera's journey to this respected position is a narrative of deep commitment to the District that nurtured her, a District where she both received her education and chose to enroll her children.

President Vera's story is one of full-circle engagement. As a proud graduate of Brookhaven and a parent within the District, she has witnessed firsthand the evolution of Columbus City Schools. Her decision to serve on the Board of Education sprung from a genuine desire to contribute and advocate for a system that, she believes, could better reflect and serve the needs of its changing community.

Her drive to improve and advance CCS's mission and vision exemplifies a leadership style deeply rooted in community, collaboration, and commitment to progress. Moreover, President Vera's inspiration and approach to educational leadership are influenced by the powerful women in her life. Her narrative is rich with the lessons of resilience and perseverance inherited from her mother, aunts, and mentors who guided her through the complexities of corporate America.

These women instilled in her an understanding of the professional world, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, resilience, and the subtle art of navigating challenges.

Under President Vera's leadership, CCS is embarking on initiatives aimed at empowering students, especially young women and girls, to see themselves in roles traditionally underrepresented by their gender. Her focus on Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, STEAM, and partnerships to increase female representation in various industries reflects her vision for a district that champions inclusivity, opportunity, and empowerment for all students.

President Vera's leadership is a testament to the transformative power of education, mentorship, and community involvement. Her story is not just one of individual achievement but a reminder of the collective responsibility we share in shaping the future of our education.

Her advice to future young women leaders is rooted in authenticity, resilience, and mentorship. She emphasizes the importance of embracing one's unique journey and leveraging personal experiences as a source of strength. She encourages aspiring leaders to seek mentors for guidance, persist through challenges with tenacity, and approach leadership as an opportunity to serve and enact change. Her counsel is a reminder that authentic leadership involves achieving personal success, empowering others, and contributing positively to one's community.

President Vera, we thank you for your service to our CCS staff and community!

Sincerely,

Dr. Angela Chapman

Superintendent/CEO, Columbus City Schools

Don't Forget the Time Change! Please remind your families about the upcoming time change this weekend. Here's a quick explanation: In the U.S., clocks change twice a year. In spring, we "spring forward" by setting clocks one hour ahead. We "fall back" in the fall by turning them one hour back. This means we lose an hour in spring but gain one in fall. Remember, it's time to change your clocks!

The Columbus City School District designed this survey to gather community feedback regarding the consolidation or closing of CCS school buildings.

CCS will use the results to inform school closure decisions that best serve the needs of our students and broader community. Your responses are confidential. CCS will only use survey responses to identify factors to consider in the school consolidation process.

Remember, the Task Force Survey Closes on March 10. Click Here to take the survey.

Great news for all current PreK-12th-grade students enrolled in Columbus City Schools! We're thrilled to announce that our Summer Experience program is back and completely FREE, exclusively for you. This unique program offers many learning opportunities, including off-site hands-on experiences, partnerships with the community, and exciting guests.

We're excited to introduce project-based learning similar to what you've enjoyed through Pathway Express. Students can explore various pathways such as Entrepreneurship, Culinary Arts, Health and Fitness, Performing Arts, and more! Additionally, we provide daily literacy and math instruction to reinforce essential skills for the upcoming school year.

For elementary and middle school students, the Summer Experience will run from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, starting from June 17 to July 12.

Registration is OFFICIALLY OPEN! Parents/guardians can easily register their child through the Parent Portal. For further details, visit the Summer Experience Hub at ccssummer.org.

Our final stop is quickly approaching! Join us on Saturday, April 13 from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Grange Insurance Audubon Center for the last stop on the Pathway Express. Explore our Urban Agriculture Summer Experience Pathway! Our FREE experience includes seed planting, wildlife exploration, composting, and giveaways (while supplies last). Learn how to Bee Waggle and attend a meet and greet with author R.L. Stine.

Event Details

Grange Insurance Audubon Center

505 W. Whittier St.

Columbus, OH 43215

Learn more about our Urban Agriculture Summer Experience Pathway by viewing our video and flyer­.

Hello Columbus City Schools Families!

Our District values feedback from all CCS families, and we would like to learn more about your child’s school experience this year. CCS is collecting responses for a Spring 2024 Family Survey to learn how we can better support our students and families.

Parents and guardians, please take 10-15 minutes to complete the Spring 2024 Family Survey. The survey window will be open through Monday, March 18.

To access the survey, click https://surveys.panoramaed.com/ccsoh/spring24family

• Select your student’s school from the dropdown menu and click “Take this survey.”
• If you have children enrolled in multiple schools you have the option to complete a survey for each school.

All responses are completely anonymous and will help us to plan programs, resources, and services to benefit your student and the school community.

Thank you for your feedback.

Join the Franklin County Auditor's Office for the Affordable Housing Resource Fair on Saturday, March 9, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Hilltonia Middle School, 2345 W. Mound Street, Columbus, OH, 43204. This resource fair will provide you with information about affordable, accessible, high-quality housing and social services provided by Central Ohio organizations.

Participants include:

• Financial institutions will be present with information on mortgages and other assistance
• Home repair, down payment assistance, and rental assistance programs
• Utility assistance programs
• Home buying information
• Wellbeing and Health Resources
• Legal Resources
• Youth and family services and more!

We are excited to announce that FamU is headed to college! Join the District Office of Engagement and CCS families for a higher learning adventure designed for parents and guardians of students in grades 8-12. Explore the campuses of Otterbein University and Columbus State Community College to learn about the admission process, course offerings, and more.

One school or two - you don't have to choose. Don't delay, make your selections today! Space is limited for this free experience, so RSVP today! Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to peek inside college life.

Otterbein University (Lunch is provided)

March 20, 2024

Morning Session: 9:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. or

Afternoon session from 12:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Register Here

Columbus State Community College (Lunch is provided)

March 23, 2024

Morning Session: 11:15 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Register Here

Students must be accompanied by an adult and a confirmation email must be received to be considered registered for the tour.

Columbus City Schools proudly presents FACES, the online Family and Community Engagement Series program created to inform and connect families, the community, and schools. You can find FACES, the Family and Community Engagement series, exclusively on CCS's Facebook and YouTube channels.

Tune in to next Tuesday's recap episode of FACES, where we're diving into the heart of school choice lottery season, a pivotal time for families within the Columbus City Schools District. School choice lotteries offer parents and students the unique opportunity to select the educational path that best fits their needs, aspirations, and interests.

Tune in every second and fourth Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. for FACES, and let's build a stronger CCS community together!

After 17 years of dedicated service, East Linden Elementary School bids a fond farewell to Lester Barnett, a respected Head Custodian who has been an integral part of our community. Marking his retirement in a manner as unique as his presence among us, Mr. Barnett danced his way into this new chapter of his life, surrounded by the applause and cheers of staff and students. This memorable send-off celebrates his years of commitment and hard work and highlights the joyful and positive spirit he brought to East Linden daily. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Mr. Barnett on his retirement. Our CCS community is grateful for his unforgettable mark on East Linden Elementary's heart.

We’re Hiring Drivers…

The Columbus City Schools’ Transportation Department is looking for qualified applicants to train as school bus operators. Get Paid to Train to Get Your CDL Class B License. Employment as a bus driver offers excellent salary, medical insurance, and other fringe benefits. Learn more at the Columbus City Schools’ hiring page.

Safety Tips

Here are some safety tips for you and your students to remember:

1. Do not cross against traffic signals. Be sure to wait for the proper signal.

2. Obey the instructions of a traffic patrol person.

If you have a Transportation question/issue, please call our Customer Service number at: 614.365.5074, option 1 (press option 2 between 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. only).

School Bus Fun Fact!

Did you know school bus seats are fastened to the floor and include an energy-absorbing steel inner structure along with high, padded seat backs? The passenger compartment of a school bus is designed to protect students like an egg carton.

For this week's trivia, the Communications Department collaborated with two outstanding students at Wedgewood Middle School. Hayden and Dante are both members of the Wedgewood chess team, and they know a lot about the game. Think you know more about chess than they do? Give this week's trivia a shot!

Columbus Alternative High School presents Urinetown, The Musical! is scheduled to run from March 7 to March 9, 2024.

In a Gotham-like city, a terrible water shortage caused by a 20-year drought, has led to a government enforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single malevolent company that profits by charging admission for one of humanity's most basic needs. Amid the people, a hero decides that he's had enough and plans a revolution to lead them all to freedom!

Urinetown, The Musical is a contemporary morality play with an important message about conservation and political responsibility told in a broad, musical comedy style. There’s no adult language or sexual innuendo, though there is some brief, cartoon violence when evil is inevitably punished. Urinetown‘s comedy extends far beyond toilet humor, as well; the lyrics and jokes are clever enough to appeal to adults, and clean enough for children younger than high school age.

Purchase your tickets here: https://bit.ly/48HmfRE

Columbus City Schools' Spring Break is just around the corner, and we have the perfect plan to keep your kids active, engaged, and entertained! The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department is excited to announce the SCHOOL'S OUT program, designed to provide youth with fun and enriching experiences during the school holidays and breaks.

From Monday to Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., our community centers will open their doors for extended hours to accommodate Columbus Public Schools' spring, fall, and winter breaks. This program is an excellent opportunity for children to enjoy various activities, make new friends, and create lasting memories.

Spring Break program registration starts on Tuesday, March 12, at 12:30 p.m. Take advantage of securing a spot for your child in this highly anticipated program. For more details and to register, contact your local community center or visit ActiveNet®.

Make the most of this Spring Break with the SCHOOL'S OUT program – where fun meets learning and adventure!

Columbus City Schools families, we're pleased to highlight Project Taillight, a community initiative offering free repairs on safety lights and minor car issues for eligible Columbus residents.

Launched in 2020 with support from the Advance Auto Parts Foundation, this program promotes safer driving and provides invaluable hands-on experience for Columbus State Community College students.

If your household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level and you're interested in ensuring your vehicle's safety, you might be eligible for this program. For more information or to apply, reach out to outreach@columbus.gov or call 614.702.7462. Join us in making Columbus roads safer for everyone!

The Made for Medicine program is now accepting applications for its next cohort! This initiative is designed to inspire and prepare the next generation of Black doctors, and they are looking for 25 motivated 6th and 7th grade students to embark on this journey.

Who Can Apply?

• African American or Black students currently in the 6th or 7th grade.
• Students must be enrolled for the 2023-2024 school year in a school within Franklin County.
• A valid teacher’s email address must be provided for the application, along with obtaining a teacher recommendation.

This program represents a fantastic opportunity for students to explore their interest in the medical field, guided by professionals and mentors who understand the importance of diverse representation in healthcare.

Important Deadline: Be sure to apply before the closing date on March 13 at 11:59 p.m.

Families are encouraged to take advantage of this unique program. We are excited to support our students in discovering their potential and pursuing their dreams in the medical profession. Don't let this chance pass your child by; apply now to be part of the Made for Medicine program's next cohort and take the first step towards a future in medicine.

BalletMet is offering reduced-cost tickets to their production of Asian Voices. Beginning on March 15, for two enchanting weekends, this unique opportunity allows you and your loved ones to immerse yourselves in the world of ballet, featuring three breathtaking short performances.

For information on how to take advantage of this special offer, please refer to the attached flyer, which includes detailed instructions for purchasing tickets online. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact BalletMet at www.BalletMet.org.

Don't miss this chance to create lasting memories with your family at BalletMet's captivating performances.

Mark your calendars for an exhilarating day of science and fun! The ASCE Central Ohio STEM Expo is back on March 16, 2024, at the Centennial High School Gymnasium, 1441 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43220. From 9 am to 1 pm, this free event invites Kindergarten through 8th - grade students to dive into the exciting world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math through hands-on activities and demonstrations.

Activities range from racing food-made cars, battling robots, experiencing levitation, and building spaghetti bridges to exploring the world of bugs and animals. This year, BUGMAN Education & Science Shows are featured, offering an unforgettable learning experience.

Don’t miss this chance to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of innovators! For more information, visit www.BUGS.org. Join us for a day of exploration and discovery at the Central Ohio STEM Expo!

Hello Columbus City Schools Families and Staff,

Are you or someone you know, aged 15 or older, looking for an exciting summer job opportunity? Look no further! The Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay are gearing up to hire for various positions, and they will be hosting an information session and an in-person job fair to fill summer job openings.

Here's a glimpse of what's available:

For applicants aged 16 years and older:

• Lifeguard: $20.00/hour
• Shallow Water Guard: $19.00/hour
• Attractions Operator: $15.00/hour
• Membership Team Member: $15.00/hour

For applicants aged 15 years and older:

• Admissions: $15.00/hour

Additionally, there are opportunities for Food & Beverage and Retail Team Members at $15/hour. *All (non-food and Beverage & Retail) positions can be found by visiting Columbus Zoo Job listings.

To dive deeper into these opportunities, the Columbus Zoo invites you to attend its upcoming events:

1. Virtual Family Information Session: March 9th, 11:00 a.m. to Noon
2. In-person or virtual Job Fair: March 16th, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Columbus Downtown High School, 364 S. Fourth Street.

RSVP for these events BY CLICKING HERE.

Take advantage of this incredible opportunity! Join the Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay in making unforgettable memories and gaining valuable experience this summer at the Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay.

Application Requirements:

• Personal Information
• Referral Source marked as "Other"; then add "CCS."
• Days and Hours available for work (students should add a tentative schedule)
• Software, knowledge, special training skills
• Employment History

Perks of Joining:

• FREE admission for you and one friend to Zoo and Zoombezi Bay
• FREE Parking (all parks)
• Qualifies for CCS Internship hours
• Discounts on food, merchandise, wristbands, and memberships (all parks)
• Discounted tours at The Wilds
• Discounts at local restaurants and businesses (Zoo partners)
• Special, After-Hours Team Member Events
• Learn and develop professional and workplace skills
• Meet new people and make GREAT memories

Apply Today:

1. Click on any of the provided application links (or copy and paste them into your internet browser).
2. Follow the instructions on applying.
3. Make sure to reference "CCS Program" in the How did you hear about us? Section.

We look forward to seeing you for the March 9 Virtual Family Session and the in-person hiring event on March 16 at Columbus Downtown High School.