Mustang Moments

Monday, December 9 & Tuesday, December 10 - 7:00pm
A Christmas Carol: A Radio Play
Strongsville High School Auditorium
FREE Performance by SHS Beginning Drama & Theatre Classes

Wednesday, December 11 - 7:00pm
SMS Winter Choral Concert
Strongsville Middle School Auditorium

Thursday, December 12 - 6:30pm
SHS Winter Band Concert
Strongsville High School Auditorium

Thursday, December 12 - 7:00pm
Strongsville Board of Education Meeting*
SCS Administrative Offices (18199 Cook Ave.)
* SCS Board of Education Meetings are live streamed HERE

Friday, December 20
NO SCHOOL for Grades 6-12 (Records Day for Grades 6-12 staff)
School IN SESSION for Grades PreK-5th

Monday, December 23 - Friday, January 3
NO SCHOOL - Winter Break

The month of December provides so many different opportunities to experience the musical talents of our students at all grade levels. In this week’s episode, we hear from high school students about what it means to perform in their winter concerts. Click HERE to hear more about their passion and excitement in bringing holiday music to our District.

‘Running with the Mustangs’ is a new video series to celebrate the “heartbeat of Strongsville City Schools.” This new series highlights students, staff, and programs that make SCS a special and unique place. Click HERE for this week’s episode and learn more about the special “SMS Gives Back” program that has been a part of the holiday season for middle school students and staff for a number of years.

This is the first time we have had an academic calendar that contains two days when some students have school and others do not. Friday, December 20th is the first day this will occur. Only students in Grs. K-5 will attend school on Friday, December 20th. The last school day for students in Grs. 6-12 prior to winter break is Thursday, December 19th.

Come join Mr. Jenkins' Beginning Drama & Theatre SHS classes as they perform A Christmas Carol: A Radio Play. Performances will take place on both Monday, 12/9 and Tuesday, 12/10 at 7pm in the SHS Auditorium. In the tradition of Reader's Theatre, students will have the scripts in front of them as they tell the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge with some live sound effects. The objective is to capture the art of storytelling through the voice, facial expressions, and gestures in a low-stakes atmosphere. Performances are free to the public, but donations will be accepted to support the theatre program and recoup funds used for licensing rights, specialized costumes, props, and sound effects.

There is still time to sign up for the “IEP by the Numbers” Parent Workshop on Thursday, December 12th from 6:30pm - 8:00pm. The workshop includes breaking down the IEP by the numbers (sections). Attendees are encouraged to bring their child's IEP as a guide. This is an informal meeting that will provide additional awareness of items that should be in each section of the IEP. The workshop will be held at the SCS Administrative Offices (18199 Cook Ave.). Please RSVP to SCS Parent Mentor Teresa Karsnak (tkarsnak@scsmustangs.org / 440.572.6593) if you plan to attend.

Mr. Nick Howard is in his third year with Strongsville City Schools and as Surrarrer Elementary’s Physical Education teacher. In addition to his daily interactions with Surrarrer students, Mr. Howard is also an assistant coach for the 8th grade football team at Strongsville Middle School. He earned his undergraduate degree from Kent State University and has his graduate degree in Sports Administration from the University of Cincinnati.

“I love working with Surrarrer students because I get to see their joy and excitement for physical activity. It's incredibly rewarding to watch them develop their skills, build confidence, and learn the importance of teamwork. One of my favorite aspects is getting to know each student individually and building strong relationships with them. Creating a fun and inclusive environment where every student feels encouraged to participate is essential to me. Their energy and enthusiasm inspire me to keep finding new ways to engage and motivate them to stay active.”

“I have the greatest job in the world! I get to come to work every day, play games, and interact with all of my students. I also work with the best Physical Education colleagues across our District and collaborate with them to bring new ideas to life to make our students’ experiences that much more exciting. My motto has always been "anything for the kids." In a world full of black and white, I get to be the color red - whether that's wearing a different pair of shoes every day or bleaching my hair at the end of the year to boost morale. Who doesn't like PE class - am I right?”

Thank you Mr. Howard for always bringing your energy and enthusiasm to class and providing authentic experiences for your students! #ModelMustang

There are a number of different job openings for Strongsville City Schools. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the Human Resources page at www.scsmustangs.org. Our District is also in need of school nurses. Please click the links below for additional information and to apply.

MIDDLE SCHOOL: (BOTH SHIFTS LISTED)

LPN - Strongsville Middle School Health Clinic - Immediate Need

https://psi-solutions.isolvedhire.com/jobs/1336280-294367.html

SAME POSITIONS - ADDITIONAL LISTING:

LPN - Strongsville Middle School Health Clinic

https://psi-solutions.isolvedhire.com/jobs/1335769-294367.html

Whitney:

LPN - Whitney Elementary School Clinic - Hiring Immediately

https://psi-solutions.isolvedhire.com/jobs/1371490-294367.html

The Strongsville Athletic Department is excited to introduce an opportunity for students at SHS. The Inclusive Dance Team will be for students of all abilities and neurotypes who enjoy dancing, music, and expressing themselves through movement. No prior dance experience is necessary. This team will be a wonderful opportunity to dance, try something new, make new friends, experience the joy of dance and music, and have fun! Dance also offers many other benefits including helping to develop skills in the areas of coordination, self-esteem, balance, fitness, following directions, memory, rhythm and musicality, social connection, and teamwork. The Strongsville Athletic Department is pleased to introduce and gain interest for potential students interested in an inclusive dance team for students with and without disabilities to come together and promote school spirit.

Please click HERE and complete the registration form if you are interested in being part of this first ever group of talented students. There will be an informational meeting regarding all the details about this new group at a later date.

Order awesome Mustangs Gear from ‘The Derby’ at Strongsville High School! ‘The Derby’ is a student operated spirit shop located in the SHS cafeteria, providing job training opportunities for students to develop skills necessary for future success - including independence, workplace readiness, job training, communication, problem solving, and leadership!

Check out ‘The Derby’ for items to add to your Strongsville wardrobe - made by SHS students. Items can be personalized and orders can be placed if the item is not available. Items can also be delivered to individual schools or picked up at the high school. SHS students can shop and order at ‘The Derby’ during lunch periods (10:00am - 1:30pm). All proceeds are given back to the Life Skills Employment Readiness Program for continued vocational training. Online orders can be placed using the QR code below or by clicking HERE. Contact thederbyshop@scsmustangs.org with any questions on custom apparel.

The SHS Theatre Department is collaborating with Playhouse Square to sell a block of tickets for the upcoming tour of & Juliet on Sunday March 9, 2025 at 6:30pm. The jukebox musical stars SHS alum, Corey Mach, as Shakespeare. This fundraiser will go toward some of the expenses for SHS's spring musical. Purchasing tickets for the show at Playhouse Square is currently live and will remain open until 12/13/24. SHS FUNdraiser prices range from $32.50 - $107.50 and the SHS Theatre Department will receive $10 for every ticket sold. Please visit https://tickets.playhousesquare.org/g08 and follow the instructions on how to purchase tickets. You must enter the promo code SHSMUSICAL in the purple box on the top left. That will open up the ticket purchase below when the web page refreshes. Thank you for your support of the SHS Theatre Department!

Stream and watch SHS athletic events from the SHS Main Gym on the new HUDL TV. Simply search for Strongsville High School at fan.hudl.com or download the HUDL Fan app in your app store. Right now, you can utilize the following promo codes and receive special discounts for Mustang Athletics action on HUDL TV:

• $5 Off All-Access Day Pass: Enjoy all Mustang games with a day pass for just $7.50 using the promo code Mustangs$5.

• $100 Off Annual Pass: Get unlimited access to Mustang Athletics for the entire school year for just $95 with promo code Mustangs$100.

Both promo codes are reusable and valid through the Winter Sports season, so don't miss out! Catch every play, cheer on your favorite teams, and save while you stream. Stay tuned in and show your Mustang pride through HUDL TV!

Our District has expanded its partnership with Blocksi to include student content filtering and alerts. We no longer utilize SecURLy for these services.

Click HERE to view an informational flier about joining the Blocksi Parent Portal to gain insights on your student’s online behavior with their scsmustangs account, as well as set parental controls beyond the school. If you have any questions, contact Dave Binkley - Director of Instructional Technology - at dbinkley@scsmustangs.org.

Right At School is once again providing care for SCS K-5 students before and after school at each of our elementary buildings. For more information on registering with Right at School for the 2024-2025 school year, click HERE.

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).

Strongsville Rec Department - Winter Tennis Lessons

Register NOW for Winter Tennis lessons at the Strongsville Recreation Center. Lessons are designed for beginner to intermediate players with a focus on fundamental skill development. Through dynamic and engaging lessons, players will work with USPTA Certified Instructor Jamie Matic to master their tennis game. Click HERE for additional information.

A Leg Up Ballet Academy Presents “The Nutcracker”

Join A Leg Up Ballet Academy as they present the timeless holiday classic “The Nutcracker” at Strongsville Middle School on Saturday, December 14. Our hard working students - many attend SCS - bring the story to life in our unique presentation of this classic story. Make The Nutcracker a part of your holiday traditions this year! Two showtimes: 1pm & 5pm. Click HERE for additional information and to purchase tickets in advance.

Youth Lacrosse Spring Registration - NOW OPEN
Registration is now open for Youth Spring Lacrosse! Beat the winter blues and register for Spring Lacrosse. Ready to play the fastest game on two feet? Whether you’re new or a returning player, our program offers a supportive environment to challenge and grow your skills. Compete against teams from across Northeast Ohio and experience the excitement of three local tournaments! This youth lacrosse opportunity is open to Grades 3-8 (2nd graders can play up to 3rd grade) for residents of Strongsville, Columbia Station, Grafton, North Royalton, and all Strongsville students. Indoor Skills & Conditioning starts Feb 22-23 at Manta Fieldhouse and Outdoor Season Kicks off early April with practices and games weekly. Jump in, make friends, and represent the Mustangs! Secure your spot today and be part of a community-driven program where everyone plays with pride. Register NOW by clicking here! (Limited spots available).

Treehouse Berea Programming

Treehouse Berea is offering many activities and opportunities for students in the month of January. From Coding to Robotics to Game Design - there's lots of great STEAM based enrichment experiences for kids ages 6-12. Visit treehouseberea.com to learn more or click HERE for the current flyer about available activities.

Strongsville Chamber of Commerce

UPCOMING EVENTS

December Holiday Luncheon

Featuring Holiday Music Provided by the SHS Women’s Chorale

Ehrnfelt Rec & Senior Center - 18100 Royalton Road / Strongsville

Tuesday, December 17, 2024

11:30am – 1:00pm

Please bring an unwrapped toy to support Operation Toy Soldier, benefitting children of active military members.

Strongsville Library

Please note the following December 2024 events presented by the Strongsville Branch Library. 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.

* The Library and Administration Office will be closed on Tuesday, December 24th and Wednesday, December 25th for the Christmas Holiday. We will resume normal business hours on Thursday, December 26th at 9:00 a.m.

*The Library and Administration Office will be closed on Tuesday, December 31st and Wednesday, January 1st for the New Year's Holiday. We will resume normal business hours on Thursday, January 2nd at 9:00 a.m.

CCPL Program Guide The Cuyahoga County Public Library program guide is now digital! Want to find out about all the amazing library programs and resources happening around the system? You can view our Program information by going to cuyahogalibrary.org and click on Research & Discover to use the Press Reader resource here:

https://cuyahogalibrary.org/research-discover/resources-a-z/pressreader

Storytimes - Are on hiatus for the month of December. Winter Storytimes will resume in January. Please see program guide or website for details.

English as a Second Language Classes by Aspire Greater Cleveland. If you need to learn English or improve your language skills, we can help. Aspire Greater Cleveland offers FREE beginner, intermediate and advanced-level English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes. Strongsville Branch will be hosting morning classes on Thursdays and Fridays. Please call 833.ASPIRE2 (1.833.277.4732) to register or visit https://cuyahogalibrary.org/services/adult-education/aspire-greater-cleveland for more information.

The Making of It's a Wonderful Life. Saturday, December 7th / 2:00 p.m. The story behind the making of the 1946 Christmas classic from first idea to movie production to box office disappointment to eventual holiday favorite. Local speaker Carl Quatraro will share this fun and interactive presentation.

Technology Training Class: Adobe In Design Basics. Monday, December 9th / 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Learn the basics of Adobe InDesign, the industry-leading layout and page design software for print and digital media. It can be used to create works such as posters, flyers, brochures, magazines, newspapers, presentations, books and eBooks. InDesign can also publish content suitable for tablet devices in conjunction with Adobe Digital Publishing Suite.

Digital Navigator at Strongsville Branch. Tuesday, December 10th from 1:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Call us at 216.749.9420 to make an appointment with one of our Digital Navigators at a CCPL branch. Cuyahoga County Public Library’s Digital Navigators service offers one-on-one assistance to help you – or someone you know – connect to the internet, get a device, set up a telehealth appointment and more.

Southwest General Health Talk: Nourish Your Mind, Body, & Soul. Wednesday, December 11th / 10:00 a.m. Food can have a transformative effect on our lives, beyond just satisfying our hunger. It can influence our mood, energy levels, and quality of life, as well as our mental and emotional states. It can also bring people together, evoke feelings of comfort or nostalgia, and be part of celebrations. Join us for this special Southwest General Health Talk. Judy Steffes; MS, RDN, LD, will discuss heart healthy diet and looks at good diet and meal preparation ideas to help people eat healthy for body, mind and soul.

Toddler Sensory Art Play. Ages 1 - 3 with a Caregiver. Friday, December 13th / 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Engage your little one’s senses, develop skills, and build brain connections though open-ended art using a variety of tactile materials.

Audio & Video Studio Orientation. Ages 11 & up. Saturday, December 14th / 10:00 a.m. VIRTUAL or on Monday, December 16th / 7:00 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 session.

A Wintery School Age Storytime. Primarily for grades 1 - 3 but all ages welcome. Saturday, December 14th / 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Warm up this chilly December afternoon with laughter from these silly stories and songs.

Blow off some S.T.E.A.M. After School. Grades 1 - 4. Wednesday, December 18th / 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Ignite your curiosity and creativity through this exploration of all things STEAM. Discover the elements of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math through hands on activities and exploration. Boost your problem solving and teamwork skills in this program.

Sewing Basics for Adults. Wednesday, December 18th / 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Learn the basics of using a sewing machine and get a hands-on opportunity to create a simple project. All materials and equipment are provided. No prior experience necessary. Registration is required.

Blood Drive. Friday, December 20th / 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 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).

Strongsville High School * Muraski Elementary *

Strongsville Middle School * Surrarrer Elementary *

Chapman Elementary * Whitney Elementary *

Kinsner Elementary * Early Learning Preschool

Website: www.scsmustangs.org
Location: Strongsville City Schools, 18199 Cook Avenue, Strongsville, OH, United States
Phone: (440) 572-7000
Facebook: facebook.com/strongsvillecs
Instagram: @strongsvillecs

Twitter / X: @strongsvillecs