Edgewood City Schools
Superintendent Quarterly Update (January 2025)
From the Desk of Kelly Spivey
Happy New Year! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, relaxation, and time spent with loved ones. The Spivey’s certainly did. It isn’t often that you can get your children and all of the grandchildren in one location. This is one season that this occurs and we are feeling blessed!
As we return to school on January 7th, I want to extend a warm welcome back to each of you. The start of a new year is a beautiful opportunity for new fresh ideas, beginnings, and certainly renewed energy. Let’s carry this positive attitude and enthusiasm from our celebrations into the schools and classrooms.
As we resume our studies, may we set new goals, embrace challenges, and continue to support one another in our learning journeys. May we remember that every day is a chance to learn something new, make meaningful connections, and grow both academically and socially.
I’m excited about this new year, new semester, and possibilities that come from new beginnings. May we accomplish great things together in 2025!
Treasurer
On behalf of the Edgewood City School District, I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the generosity and unwavering support for our students. The donations of food, Christmas gifts, funds for pay-to-participate fees, lunch charges, and school fees have made a profound difference in the lives of so many. The kindness not only helps to meet essential needs but also ensures that students feel valued, included and supported. During this season of giving, these contributions have been a shining example of the extraordinary community that we are blessed to be part of.
We would also like to extend a special thank you to our corporate sponsors who have made generous contributions to support the improvement of our athletic facilities. Your support not only enhances the experiences of our student-athletes but also strengthens our entire community by fostering school spirit and prive.
If you would like to learn more about how you can help support our students and programs, please feel free to contact me at patti.bowers@edgewoodschools.net or 513-867-3400, ext. 1008.
Curriculum, Instruction, Assessments
Supporting one another in the learning journey is crucial for building a positive and productive educational environment. If you’re looking for some ideas on this topic, a few effective strategies are listed below:
Study Groups
Forming small groups allows students to collaborate, feel safe to ask questions and learn about different perspectives.
Peer Tutoring
Students that understand the concept being taught can offer great support to those that need additional support.
Sharing Resources
Students that miss school can gain important information by asking others to share their notes and study guides.
Encouragement and Motivation
Breaking things down into simple, achievable steps; encouraging others with positive feedback or encouragement will go a long way!
Open Communication
Open dialogue is a great way to create a positive environment where students feel safe and comfortable to ask questions. This is an essential skill!
Feedback and Constructive Criticism
Students providing each other with constructive feedback is another great way for students to learn and grow prior to turning in an assignment for a grade.
Creating Accountability Partners
Pairing up with a classmate to set goals and hold each other accountable is a good way for students to stay focused and motivated.
Establishing Emotional Support Systems
Having a peer that is a good listener is essential. Being present for one another during stressful times, like exams, high stake tests, big projects, etc., can provide comfort and improve overall well-being.
Facility Improvements
Edgewood is currently reviewing an updated roof assessment to plan for permanent improvement projects in the future. In addition, we will be looking into paving and repairing some of the building parking lots, and replacing HVAC equipment. These projects will be funded with Permanent Improvement funds. Permanent Improvement funds are not part of the general fund and can only be used for capital improvements.
We are also excited to be moving into Phase II of our Kumler Field Renovation Project. This phase will include a build-out addition to the existing concession stand. This project will be completely funded through corporate sponsorships (donations) that were designated for field renovation projects. The district general fund or permanent improvement funds will not be used for projects taking place at Kumler Field.
We are excited to have the opportunity to improve our facilities and infrastructure while remaining fiscally responsible.
Human Resources
Did you know that the Edgewood City Schools is one of the largest employers in the district? With more than 400 employees, the majority of our employees are teachers. Have you ever thought about available opportunities for those who are not teachers? We employ food service workers, bus drivers, paraprofessionals, secretaries, nurses, and custodians. If you are interested in learning more about employment with the Edgewood City Schools, please contact us via email at alesia.beckett@edgewoodschools.net
We are always looking for quality substitutes
Student Services
The special education program is crucial to the success of students with disabilities. In Ohio, districts and community schools receive an annual Special Education Rating, based on final Education Management Information System (EMIS) data, which results in one of four ratings: Meets Requirements, Needs Assistance, Needs Intervention, or Needs Substantial Intervention. The Edgewood City School District proudly earned the highest rating of "Meets Requirements" for the 2024 Special Education Rating, reflecting data from the 2022-2023 school year.
Additionally, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) established indicators to assess district performance for students with disabilities. The Ohio Department of Education sets annual performance targets for these indicators, and districts receive a Special Education Profile to track their progress.
The profile focuses on six key areas: kindergarten readiness, academic achievement, access to general education, post-high school preparation, services for students with disabilities, and equitable outcomes. These areas guide districts in using data to improve services and results for students with disabilities. The 2024 Special Education Profile will be released sometime in January 2025.
Athletics
Edgewood High School had 4 student/athletes that signed their letter of intent to continue their academic and athletic career next fall. Those student/athletes are: Riley Tice-Kentucky Christian University Golf, Kasey Kelhoffer Hiram College Soccer, Evelyn Henson Purdue University Fort Wayne Softball, and Isaiah Nichols Quincy University Wrestling.
The Edgewood Athletic Hall of Fame will be inducting three new members into the Hall of Fame on Thursday, January 16th. The new inductees are Tracy Hawkins class of 1989, David White class of 2000, and John Thomas 1975. Tickets for the Hall of Fame dinner are $25 and can be purchased at the Edgewood High School Athletic Office Monday through Friday 8:00am till 2:00pm or online at https://edgewood.headlinesadx.com/ticketing/
Social, Emotional Learning
The Edgewood Social Emotional Learning Team recognizes that the safety and well-being of our students is top priority. The SEL department understands that strong mental wellness plays a significant role in each student's success both in and outside of the classroom.
As a district we focus on the 5 Competencies of SEL
Self-Management
Managing emotions and behaviors to achieve one’s goals
Self Awareness
Recognizing one’s emotions and values as well as one’s strengths and challenges.
Social Awareness
Showing understanding and empathy for others
Relationship Skills
Forming positive relationships, working in teams, dealing effectively with conflict
Responsible Decision Making
Making ethical constructive choices, about personal and social behavior