It is such an exciting time to be a Wildcat! We have had a tremendous start to the school year with so many accomplishments in a short period of time. As we wrap up the first quarter, I want to take a moment to reflect on our incredible start.
The energy and excitement from the first day continues, and it has been inspiring to witness the dedication and passion that make our district such a special place.
I’ve had the privilege of spending meaningful time listening and learning from so many of you—our families, community members, staff, and, most importantly, our students. Whether in focus groups, coffee talks, or casual conversations, the insights you shared play a critical role in shaping the vision for our district’s future. This engagement provided us with valuable perspectives and information that will help set the priorities, direction, and the development of a Portrait of a Graduate.
We want to continue our two-way communication with you and provide MEANINGFUL and TRANSPARENT answers to your comments, concerns, and questions. To continue our commitment to seek and welcome feedback, I invite you to partake in the survey at the end of this newsletter. Thanks in advance!
In addition to the existing specials classes (art, PE, music, library) at KES, a new Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) class is having a positive impact on students!
The Character Strong curriculum, which drives our SEL classes, is designed to help students in numerous ways:
- Understand and Manage Emotions
- Build Relationships
- Show Empathy
- Make Responsible Decisions
The SEL course has three powerful outcomes: Be Kind, Be Strong, and Be Well. Thus far, students have focused on respect and responsibility and will center November's theme on gratitude.
School Counselor Kristen Lazard states, "We use the Character Strong curriculum for lesson and lecture portions of the class. We also have “circles,” in which each student gets a talking stick and a chance to share on the carpet; the topic is always what we are covering that month. We play games, have engaging stations, and read books. Each month's theme also comes with a song. Our parents have shared their feedback and said they are very grateful for the class and that their students are using the tools they learn in our SEL class at home!
KHS Family and Consumer Science Teacher Shannon Heffernan was elected as President of the Ohio Association of Family & Consumer Sciences (OAFCS). Shannon was previously in the role of Vice President of the Annual Conference and was in charge of planning nearly 2 days of their recent conference in Columbus.
During the conference, Shannon received the OAFCS Leader Award, which recognizes a FCS individual who has made significant contributions to the family and consumer sciences profession through association involvement and leadership at the national, state, and local levels. Congratulations Shannon on this outstanding accomplishment!
At NO extra COST to the District, and through a grant obtained from the Lorain County ESC, we are able to bring our families, students, and staff a Wellness and Success Coordinator. The position has been filled by Sarah McCall, our present social worker. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Bowling Green State University as well as a Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University.
In Sarah's new role, she will implement state and district wellness initiatives, focusing on providing students academic and behavioral support as well as strengthening their development of social and emotional wellness. She will build partnerships with community organizations to meet the needs of our students, families, and staff.
It's almost time for the Keystone Choirs' annual LIP SYNC BATTLE! Not only will our students get the chance to strut their stuff on stage, but we have a PARENTS AND FACULTY CATEGORY this year! Costumes, choreography, and props are highly encouraged. No talent is required 😅.
The Lip Sync Battle is Wednesday, November 20 at 6pm at Keystone High School. We will have categories for middle school, high school, and parents/faculty. Winners in each category will receive a prize! The audience will also vote for their favorite act. Performers must pay a $5 entry fee per person (so a group of 4 would pay $20 total). We will charge $2 admission at the door for spectators.
Performer registration forms are available from Mrs. Pearce and are due November 6.
