Eagle Flyer

Dear Walnut Hills Community,

It’s always great to wrap up a Friday before a long weekend! Just a reminder that there will be no school on February 17th in observance of President’s Day.

Last Friday marked the end of midterm week for the third quarter, making this a great time to check your student’s progress on Focus. With short weeks and schedule interruptions, the third quarter can be challenging, so continued encouragement is important. While the end of the school year is in sight, there is still a quarter and a half left to make a meaningful impact on semester grades.

Winter athletics are wrapping up as teams head into the postseason, and the theatre production of Unsinkable Molly Brown opened last night, continuing through the weekend. We are incredibly proud of our students’ talents both inside and outside the classroom!

Optioning opened today, and we are officially off to the races in preparing for the upcoming school year. With an extra day off this weekend, we encourage students to log into Focus and update their course selections. And don’t forget—there are incentives on the line. Everyone loves a pizza party!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Rise to the Highest!

Ashley Morgan

Interim Principal

Sursum ad summum

Go Eagles!

February

14 Optioning Opens in Focus (details in Counseling Corner)

17 Schools Closed President's Day Holiday

18 Transition to High School Virtual Program (details in Counseling Corner)

21 WalnutFest

24 Sophomore/Junior College Night (details in Counseling Corner)

25 Juniors take the ACT during school

Illness is on the rise and students are coming to school not feeling well.

Please keep in mind, illness is an excused absence and students will be able to make up work they will miss. Please do not send ill students to school because they have a quiz or test.

Use the link below to access the CPS current Too Sick for School Policy.

Too Sick for School

Attention Juniors and Seniors. Our district Stop the Bleed training will take place on February 21, 2025, across all 7 bells. All 11th and 12th grade students, who have not completed the program, will report to the auditorium during their respective study hall bell. If they DO NOT have a study hall, they will need to complete the program during an elective class. There will be a makeup date set for February 28, 2025.

For more information please review this form: Stop The Bleed Information

A group of over 20 Walnut Hills students are joining together to raise money for cancer research through the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in honor of the battles of many, including student and faculty of our own. They are called Team Hope Hustlers, and are striving to reach their goal of $75,000 for cancer research. On March 8th, they are hosting a Benefit Gala at the Junior League of Cincinnati from 7-11pm to raise money for their cause. This gala is open to all families! They will have small bites from local restaurants, an open bar, a silent auction, and much more! Here is the link to purchase tickets! The deadline to purchase tickets is February 17th.

https://givebutter.com/LLSGala

If you prefer to donate directly to LLS here is the link as well.

https://events.lls.org/soh/svoycincy25/thopehustl

Sixteen students at Walnut Hills High School have been named National Merit Finalists in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. Congratulations to :

Roger Boerger, Taleh Fananapazir, Karna Gajjar, Leslie Gimbert, Luke Greiner, Eloise Griffin, Elisabeth Hou, Ian Leventhal, Andrew Liao, Jacob Menz, Tejas Mundhe, Jeev Sampath, Avery Schindel-Hassan, Addison Wagner, Jonathan Walker, and Sarah Wilson!

About 15,000 Finalists throughout the nation, out of 1.5 million Juniors who took the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise.

See below for the notification. Congratulations to all Gleam members!

It is my pleasure to inform you that your school’s literary magazine, Gleam 2024, has been selected to receive the rank of Distinguished in the 2024 NCTE Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines (REALM) program. From all of us at the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), congratulations to you and your students on this exceptional publication. We commend you for inspiring a love of writing that your students will remember for the rest of their lives.

Walnut Hill's FTC robotics team The NUTS! advanced to the State Championship this past weekend by winning the Kent State Qualifier. Along with being on the winning alliance they also won the Inspire Award which is the highest judged award a team can receive. Please congratulate them and wish them good luck in the State Championship which will be held March 8th.

Cast members of our 'The Unsinkable Molly Brown' production have been featured on the local news. Click on the links below to access their interviews. Caroline Lovelace and Clark Sayre did a fantastic job representing the theater department and our school.

FOX19

WKRC

Attention students and families. Please secure your belongings whenever you are parking on or near campus. There has been a recent increase in theft in the neighborhood. So lock up your belongings!

Parents of 11th and 12th grade students: Information about the upcoming ACT administration was distributed to students in their homeroom on 1/29. The ACT is for all current juniors, and will take place here at school on February 25, beginning promptly at 8:00 a.m. Please ask your student about the school attendance form they received in their homeroom for February 25. Extra forms are available in Office 2209, and completed forms should be returned to Office 2209 before February 21.

Seniors- THIS IS IT! You are in the LAST semester of your senior year! As we start to think about graduation, we are looking for photos of YOU! We would love to show as many faces as we can from the senior class on a slide show during the graduation ceremony, but we need your help! Please upload your photos here. They can be from 7th-12th grade!

Mark Your Calendars

Please look for the email with key testing dates for the rest of the school year. This email was sent Thursday, January 16th.

If you did not receive it you can find the content with details at this link:

WHHS Semester 2 Testing Information

All AP Exam fees have been posted to student accounts in Focus under the Purchase & Pay tab. We apologize in advance for any confusion with these fees. Please direct any questions to Penny Hedrick, school treasurer, at hedricp@cpsboe.k12.oh.us

If you have not already done so, PLEASE check your student’s account for AP fees. Payment can now be handled directly through Focus OR you may bring your cash or money order payment to the main office. We cannot accept personal checks. If you do not have an account in Focus, please go to this link: Parent Portal Registration

If you feel you would qualify for Reduced AP Fees but you do not see this reflected in your student’s account, you must provide our school treasurer with a letter of approval for Free or Reduced Lunch from Student Dining Services BEFORE the fees are due on March 31, 2025.

If you have not applied, please do so right away to allow time for processing the application.

Meal & Education Benefits Application and Information

Come join the fun and support our students!

WalnutFest 2025 is next week! It's not too late to join the fun. Tickets and sponsorships are available here.

[https://whhs.schoolauction.net/walnutfest2025/register/ticket_sales]

Can't make it to WalnutFest? You can still bid on some amazing silent auction items. Take a sneak peak at the online catalog here.

[https://whhs.schoolauction.net/walnutfest2025/catalog]

Please use this LINK to access information about WHHS Athletic Boosters and upcoming events/fundraisers.

Want to stay in know of everything related to Walnut Athletics? The Eagles Week is posted weekly on Sundays and can be found at Walnut Hills - Team Home Walnut Hills Eagles Sports (walnuthillseaglesathletics.com).

Have information to be added each week? Email your leads to whhseaglesweekly@gmail.com !

Please use this LINK to see how you can support the Walnut music program.

Please use the link below to see the School Counselor breakout and contact info. for 24/25.

Counseling Department 2024-2025

Due to District complications, optioning in Focus will now open on Feb. 14 and run until Feb. 28. We would like for all students to complete their optioning online by Friday Feb. 21. Check your email for details.

All optioning materials from the Counseling Department are accessible on the Walnut Hills website, under Optioning Materials 2025-2026 on the Counseling tab.

WHHS Counseling

Attention parents/guardians of 8th grade students:

Join us on Tuesday, February 18 at 7:00 for our virtual Transition to High School program for 8th grade families. Counselors will discuss the four year academic plan and the importance of selecting a course load appropriate for college aspirations and interests. The importance of the high school transcript is discussed as well.

Click HERE to join the meeting

Air Force ROTC representatives will be presenting to our 9th-12th graders on Friday, Feb. 21st. Mark your calendars! Come to the Conference Room during your lunch!

New program this year! Sophomore-Junior College Night, for all 10th and 11th graders and their parents. We’ll offer multiple presentations on a variety of college admissions topics, and you’ll choose 3 presentations to sit in on over the course of the evening. Mark your calendars! Feb 24th from 6:15-8. Come to the Auditorium. Register here.

Click on the link below to view the College Credit Plus (CCP) video and to access the Letter of Intent. Please see your school counselor with any questions. The deadline for signing the Letter of Intent is April 1.

Please watch this video as a requirement to take CCP classes.

During the sessions, we will cover important topics including Dual Enrollment State information and details regarding the University of Cincinnati application process. These sessions provide an excellent opportunity for students and families who may have missed their school's information session or for those interested in exploring a campus further, especially if they are considering taking courses in person. Each session will require families to sign in for attendance tracking.

Click HERE for location/meeting details and to register.

CIC Upcoming Wednesday Topics - during 2nd lunch in room 1109

February 19 - summer programs - Freshman to junior

February 26- Appealing Financial Aid Awards - Seniors only

Juniors, as you prepare for this winter and spring's sittings of the ACT and SAT, take advantage of Walnut's free test prep sessions during your lunch bell! Lunch Bunch meets Tuesdays and Thursdays in room 1109, and topics are announced weekly. Come for as many sessions as you'd like!

Hello senior families! Do you need help completing your FAFSA application? Sign up for our FAFSA Help Meetings for students and parents/guardians.

Last meeting is scheduled for March 11, 2025

College representatives will meet individually with parents and students to assist in completing the FAFSA application. Appointments must be pre-scheduled.

The earliest appointment for each session is 10am, and the latest is 5pm.

Here is the Registration Link.

College Aid Pro is hosting a FREE Financial Aid Webinar Series designed to answer your biggest questions about paying for college,
understanding financial aid, and making smart decisions for your family.

When: Every 2nd Tuesday of the month
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Register here to secure your spot and get the recording if you can’t attend live!

In this series, you’ll learn about:
The latest FAFSA changes and what they mean for your family
How to maximize financial aid and reduce college costs
Understanding scholarships, grants, and loans
Insider tips from financial aid experts

This is a great chance to get clear, practical advice—no strings attached. Whether your student is a freshman just starting to think about college or a senior finalizing decisions, there’s something here for everyone.

Spots are limited, so be sure to register today!

Use this LINK to access a list of local and national scholarship opportunities.

Use this LINK to access a list of summer opportunities for students.

If you are a parent of a junior or senior and still need to register for a Naviance account, send an email request including your student's name and grade level to Mrs. Christie (christt@cps-k12.org) to receive your registration code.

Senior Monthly Newsletters 24-25

Junior Monthly Newsletters 24-25

Gr. 9 & 10 Monthly Newsletters 24-25

Click HERE to access School Counselor Meeting LINKS. (Also available on the Counseling page of the Walnut website)

If you have any issues making an appointment, email your counselor.

All Students:

Ohio has new graduation requirements that took effect in 2022. Please make yourselves familiar with them. Direct any questions regarding graduation requirements to your school counselor.

Simply calling or texting 988 or chatting 988Lifeline.org will connect you to compassionate care and support for mental health-related distress. #988Lifeline

NPR's A Martinez talks to Dr. Pamela Cantor, founder of Turnaround for Children, about a Pew report that finds U.S. parents' biggest concern is the mental health of their children.

NPR Link (to transcript and sound recording)

Click on this LINK to learn more about FREE SAY EAST Referee Training

The 2025 Mayor's Career Expo is Saturday, February 15, 2025 9am - 2pm at TQL Stadium. There will be approximately 70 vendors there to hire youth ages 14-21.

The City will be hiring youth for CRC positions in Rec Centers, Police Cadets, Fire Cadets, and various Aquatics positions. Additionally, the Fire Dept. will be recruiting for Fire Recruits.

Western Golf Association Evans Scholars Foundation is partnering with local schools to connect high achieving and low-income students to caddying jobs at clubs such as Hyde Park Golf and Country Club. Specifically, I am offering an opportunity for 9th grade students to caddie as a summer job. Caddying is a great summer job where they will make great money outdoors, connect with leaders and successful people within their community, and develop a strong work ethic and personal skills that will serve them throughout their life and careers. There is then the potential reward for their hard work and commitment to caddying through the Evans Scholarship.

Click HERE for more information.

Spencer Groessl | Director, Caddie Recruitment

Western Golf Association | Evans Scholars Foundation

O: (224) 260-3767

groessl@wgaesf.org

ATTENTION Class of 2026, Class of 2027, and Class of 2028 students!

We are excited to announce an incredible and epic opportunity for students during Spring Break (March 2026): a cultural immersion trip to Spain and Morocco!

From exploring the vibrant streets of Madrid to experiencing the ancient wonders of Marrakesh and the coastal beauty of Tangier, this 11-day journey promises to be both an educational and unforgettable trip! Students will learn about the history and architecture of two fascinating countries (AND continents!) and gain a deeper understanding of global cultures through guided tours, local cuisine, and unique cultural activities. This trip is designed to broaden students’ perspectives and foster an appreciation for the diverse world we live in.

Spots are limited, so be sure to register soon for this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Join us for an adventure you'll never forget: Click to access the Tour Center page.

Contact Mr. Boshears (Room 1603) at (boshear@cpsboe.k12.oh.us) for more details and questions.

We are still looking for hosts/co-hosts for Walnut Gatherings in 2025, specifically for parents with students in the Class of 2028 (current 9th grade) and Class of 2029 (current 8th grade), plus 2-3 other fun events. Our goal is to offer 12-15 Walnut Gatherings in 2025 to raise $15,000 for the school, all while having fun with fellow parents and building community, and we need your help to do so!

Interested but feel unsure how to start? We can help you! We have party ideas and potential venues (see here for parties from 2024 for inspiration). If interested in hosting/co-hosting or if you have any questions, please fill out this form or email us at WalnutGatherings@gmail.com. Thank you!

Walnut Gatherings Committee

Becky Gash, Dawn Kurchak, Veronica Tollefson & John Twachtman

There has been an update to the cell phone policy to bring it more in line with what is currently taking place across the district. Please find the updated information below.

Cell phone policy:

1st offense confiscation of cell phone for the remainder of the day and parent pickup

2nd offense ALC and confiscation for the remainder of the day, and parent pickup

If a student lies about having a phone, they will receive the appropriate consequence as stated above, in addition to a Friday School for False Identification/dishonesty.

Students who arrive to school without a Yondr pouch will turn in their cell phone to the main office upon entering the building. After the third time of not having their pouch, the cell phone will be held until a parent is able to pick it up, or they purchase a new Yondr pouch.

The administration will continue to conduct Yondr classroom checks during the week.

As we enter the Fall and Winter seasons and the weather changes, please be advised that all students are expected to exit the building at 3:15 PM. If a student is waiting for their transportation after 3:15 PM, they will be doing so outside of the building. We appreciate your cooperation in making sure that students have arranged their transportation to pick them up by 3:15 PM.

We have an important update to our Early Dismissal procedures. If your student is unaware of their early dismissal before coming into the building, you must come in (with your ID) and check them out in the grade level office upon your arrival. Please note, depending on the timing of your arrival, it may take a while to find and retrieve your student, so please plan accordingly. Please see our full dismissal procedures here: LINK to Reporting Absences & Dismissals

Parents and students, please note the Walnut Hills Dress Code listed in the Student Handbook.

Click HERE to review

We are so grateful for our brand new cafeteria expansion. We love that all of our students are able to sit and enjoy lunch with their peers and we want to make sure everyone is doing their part to maintain our beautiful space. Please review the following expectations for the cafeteria and cafeteria hallway.

Cafeteria Expectations

Hallway and Lunch Line Expectations

Our goal is to maintain a continuous flow of traffic, so that our students can report to their classes on time. Please help us to achieve this by following these expectations:
If you are using the Blair Circle or Junior High Gymnasium Traffic Circle please make sure that you pull forward as far as you can in the circle prior to stopping and dropping off your student(s).
If you have entered the circle and all traffic in front of you is stopped, then you may proceed with dropping off your student.
All traffic entering and exiting must stay in one line; no cars should try and pass other cars that are in the circle.

Attention Families: Please click on this LINK to review Drop off/Pick-up directions and Dismissal details

Membership Fees for our 2024-25 clubs are now live on Final Forms. If your student participates in any number of our clubs, please submit the flat-rate payment of $25 as soon as possible. This funding will allow our school to continue to offer the variety of programming that you've come to expect! Please view this letter that explains the need for our membership fee.

During the PowerSchool to Focus rollover, some contact information has been scrambled. We want to make sure that all stakeholders are receiving our communications. It takes a village, and we appreciate those of you forwarding our emails to families who are not getting messages. Please share THIS LINK with anyone you know not receiving emails from Walnut, so we can gather accurate information and update our system.

For CPS students and their families, help is a phone call away by dialing the Family Technology Support Center, (513) 363-0688 or emailing fts@cps-k12.org. Tech support is available in English and Spanish from 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday when school is in session.

New to Walnut? Hearing about important events after the fact?

The Parent Association communicates using a system called Constant Contact, so join our mailing list using the attached link and get up-to-date information about what's happening at Walnut Hills! Get Connected

Reporting Absences and Dismissals

Grades 7-9 Information Google Site

Grades 10-12 Information Google Site

2024-2025 Student Handbook

2024-2025 Club List

WHHS Important Phone Numbers

WHHS Association Mailing List

Our community communicates using a system called Constant Contact, so join our mailing list using the link above and get up-to-date information about what's happening at Walnut Hills!

This summer our school decided to go in a different direction, looking for a new school-based mental health partnership. After interviewing several mental health organizations our mental health team representatives collectively decided Children's Hospital would be the best fit for our Walnut Hills community.

Please click HERE for more details.

Click HERE to meet our new therapists.

Email: whhsattendance@cpsboe.k12.oh.us
Website: walnuthillseagles.com
Location: 3250 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati, OH, USA
Phone: 513-363-8400
Twitter: @high_walnut