These are short news bits (listed newest to oldest)
about successes and achievements of South-Western students and staff.
If you have any newsworthy items, please send them to info@swcs.us
Be sure to include contact information for follow-up.
2013 PRIDE Awards
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The South-Western City School District Board of Education is honored to host this special event to recognize the many accomplishments of its high school students. These students represent some of the finest young women and men in the State of Ohio. They have demonstrated their excellence in the areas of academics, athletics, visual and performing arts, leadership, technical skills, and recognized awards of distinction.
Click here to view a copy of the event program and list of awards.
CCHS PowderPuff Game
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CCHS held its first annual PowderPuff game on May 9 to collect donations for the Mid-Ohio Food Bank. Congratulations to the senior girls, pictured here after their win! |
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Congratulations to bus drivers Phil Dillard, Doug Cress and Dede Colley who placed 2nd, 3rd and 5th respectively in the 2013 Central Ohio Regional Bus Road-E-O this past weekend. They will all compete in the State Road-E-O on Saturday, May 18. |
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Congratulations to the bus driver team of Bill Belcher, Steve Rucker, Dede Colley and Jim Ryan who took second place in the 2013 Central Ohio Regional School Bus Road-E-O this past weekend! |
200 Students Pledge to not Text and Drive
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Nearly 200 students and staff members took the pledge to not text and drive as part of the AT&T "It Can Wait" contest. Shown holding the signed banner are senior Alyssa Whitlock and junior Austin Albert. |
2013 Employee Awards Recognition Night
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Click here for a list of the award recipients.
The Westland Chorale received straight superior "1" ratings at the Ohio Music Education Association's Large Group State Adjudicated Event on Friday, May 3.
The Westland AFJROTC Drill Team placed third in the Advanced Unarmed IDR multi-state regional competition this weekend. Cadet James Hobson placed third and Cadet Mercedes Bird placed fourth in the Advance Knockout Competition.
The SWCS Board of Education has proclaimed May 6-10 as Staff Appreciation Week in the South-Western City Schools! Thank you to our wonderful, caring staff members!
- Monday, May 6 is Bus Driver Appreciation Day in Ohio.
- Wednesday, May 8 is National Teacher Day.
- Wednesday, May 8 is National School Nurse Day.
Westland High School AFJROTC Color Guard presented the Colors at the Ohio Theater
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The Westland High School AFJROTC Color Guard presented the Colors at the Ohio Theater for the opening of the broadway production of War Horse to honor our service members! |
Hayes Intermediate Students Recognized for Artistic Excellence
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Congratulations to Hayes Intermediate School students Lilly Trimble and Courtney Mix for being recognized for their artistic excellence by the Central Region Leaders of the Ohio Art Education Association. They are shown with their art teacher Dr. Cam McComb. |
SWCS is the recipient of an AEP Ohio - Energy Efficiency Champion Award. As a result of its retrofitting measures in both 2011 and 2012, the district achieved an annual energy savings of 3,994,225 kilowatt hours.
Congratulations to the 2013 National Honor Society Inductees at CCHS
Congratulations to the 2013 National Honor Society Inductees at CCHS: Natalie Bolanos-Cruz, Matthew Chamblin, Michael Chamblin Sarah Chipps, Harley Donahue, Alexa Doudna, Olivia Downing, Brendan Eal, Jacquelyn Fowler, Mitchell Fulton, Rachel Hagenbarth, Jessica Heckethorn, Megan Hendershot, Angely Hererra-Castro, Chance Hodges, Stephanie Karnes, Nicholas Keil, Rose LeVally, Kayleigh Mahoney, Caleb Mosley, Patricia Puddoc, Kylie Rezes, Kelsie Rivers, Isse Roble, Marc Russell, Erin Scott, Kesar Som, Hunter Taylor, Alexandra Weyers and Wendy Weyers!
Monterey Aide Sue Zeszotek selected as the 2013 Ohio PTA District 10 Helping Hands Award Recipient
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Congratulations to Monterey Aide Sue Zeszotek for being selected as the 2013 Ohio PTA District 10 Helping Hands Award Recipient. She was honored at the Ohio PTA Convention over the weekend. Sue is shown here with National PTA President Betsy Landers (l) and Ohio PTA President Gloria Cazan (r). |
North Franklin Principal Elaine Lawless selected as the 2013 Ohio PTA District 10 Outstanding Educator
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Congratulations to North Franklin Principal Elaine Lawless for being selected as the 2013 Ohio PTA District 10 Outstanding Educator! Mrs. Lawless was honored at the Ohio PTA Convention over the weekend! She is shown in this picture with National PTA President Betsy Landers (L) and Ohio PTA President Gloria Cazan (R). |
GCHS Student Photos Accepted into the Ohio Governor's Youth Regional Arts Exhibition
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Congratulations to GCHS Photo II students Madison Jarrell, Laura Reis, Mat Pierce and Vinh Peters, whose photographs were accepted into the Ohio Governor's Youth Regional Arts Exhibition. Their photography will be on display at the McConnell Arts Center in Worthington from May 9 through June 23. |
SWCS District Collects over 10,000 books for Reach Out and Read
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The district collected more than 10,296 books for the Reach Our and Read Across Our Community Program! |
Congratulations to Our Newly Appointed Administrators
Congratulations to our newly appointed administrators - Stephanie Baker (Principal at Highland Park Elementary School), Brett Harmon (Principal at Pleasant View Middle School), Andrew Jados (Principal at Franklin Heights High School), Lori Mesi (Assistant Principal at Central Crossing High School), and Andrew Stotz (Principal at Franklin Woods Intermediate School. They will begin serving in their new positions next school year.
Congratulations to our latest School Bell Award recipients
Congratulations to our latest School Bell Award recipients Mary Mulvany (FMS), Todd Parker, Stephen Chawla and Reggie Wagstaff (WHS), and Lisa Morris (Transportation)!
Congratulations to our Ohio PTA Reflections winners!
Congratulations to our Ohio PTA Reflections winners! Great job!
*Visual Arts, Primary, Award of Excellence- Haley Young, Alton Hall Elementary
*Visual Arts, Intermediate, Honorable Mention - Paige Jones, Alton Hall Elementary
*Music, Senior, Honorable Mention - Udit Basu, Grove City High School
*Photography, Primary, Award of Merit - Tyson Evans, Buckeye Woods Elementary
GCHS Student WIns Silver Medal in 2013 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
Congratulations to GCHS student Madison Jarrell who won a silver medal in the 2013 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards for the photo "Crowd of Masks." This recognition demonstrates that Madison is among the most talented young artists and writers in the nation. This year, 230,000 works of art and writing were submitted with only the top 1% being recognized. Madison has been invited to attend a ceremony at Carnegie Hall on May 31, which will be webcast live at 6:00 p.m. ET at artandwriting.org.
Galloway Ridge Safety Patrol Members inducted in 2013 AAA School Safety Patrol Hall of Fame
Congratulations to Galloway Ridge Safety Patrol Members Caleb Cline, Ben Dixon and Isaac Henn for being inducted into the 2013 AAA School Safety Patrol Hall of Fame. They were chosen for their commitment and dedication to the GRIS Safety Patrol Program over the past two years.
GCHS Freshman completes Franklin County Sheriff's Office Explorers Program!
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Congratulations to GCHS freshman Nick Holmes, Nick Holmes, who graduated from the Franklin County Sheriff's Office Explorers Program last month! |
WHS Senior Earns National Recognition in The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards of 2013
The Westland High School art department is pleased to announce that senior Sydney Brown has earned national recognition in The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards of 2013. Sydney earned a silver medal for her photograph, "Rhythm and Blues." Sydney was identified by panels of creative professionals as one of the most talented young artists and writers in the nation. This year, 230,000 works of art and writing were submitted. Only the top 1% were recognized at the national level. Sydney and the other winners have been invited to attend a ceremony at the world-famous Carnegie Hall on Friday, May 31. The Carnegie Hall Ceremony will also be webcast live at 6:00 p.m. EST.
FHHS students learn improv:
Click here to read the full article.
GCHS Junior completes Franklin County Sheriff's Office Explorers Program!
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Congratulations to GCHS junior Taylor Shawver, who recently completed the Franklin County Sheriff's office Explorers Program! |
GCHS Student Qualifies for State Chemistry Competition
Congratulations to GCHS student Cody Fritchen! Cody competed in the Central Ohio Region National Chemistry Olympiad and qualified to compete in the State Competition in April! 150 students from 20 Central Ohio high schools competed at the regional level with the top 11 qualifying to move on.
Three SWCS Board of Education Members earn OSBA Award of Achievement
Congratulations to SWCS School Board President Randy Reisling, Vice President Mindy Garverick and Member Cathy Johnson for earning the Ohio School Boards Association Award of Achievement at the OSBA Central Region Conference last evening. SWCS was the only district with three members recognized for this award!
Hayes Student's Artwork Selected to Hang in the Ohio Art Education Association Young People's Art Exhibition
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Congratulations to Hayes student Grace Fisher! Grace's print was selected to hang in the Ohio Art Education Association Young People's Art Exhibition during the month of March at the Rhodes State Office Tower. It will then travel to Toledo, where it will be on display for the Ohio Art Education Association Conference in November. |
Hayes Student's Artwork Selected to Hang in the Ohio Art Education Association Youth Art Month Exhibition
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Congratulations to Hayes student Andrew Cotton! Andrew's print was selected to hang in the Ohio Art Education Association Youth Art Month Exhibition at the State Teacher's Retirement Building in downtown Columbus. |
Central Crossing Relief Drive for Sandy Hook Families
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CCHS students and staff were involved in a relief drive to assist the families of the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings. The drive was spearheaded by the CCHS NJROTC unit. They collected more than $2,200. Those who contributed signed an Ohio Flag, which was sent with the funds and 26 knitted caps to the Sandy Hook Board of Education. |
Westland Student takes First Place at Arnold Classic
Congratulations to Westland's Greg Rummel! Greg competed at the Arnold Classic and took first place in Kata and Kumite and also won the $2,000 college scholarship for Martial Arts given by the Rotary Club! If Karate gets the Olympic bid this year, Greg is first seed in his division to go to Rio in 2016 for the exhibition matches and his GPA. Greg will be competing in the US Open and Junior International Cup on March 26 at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas.
Westland High School Symphonic Band competed at the OMEA District 15 Large Group Adjudicated Event
The Westland High School Symphonic Band competed at the OMEA District 15 Large Group Adjudicated Event on March 8. The group received an excellent "II" rating.
Westland High School Chorale competed at the OMEA District 15 Large Group Adjudicated Event
The Westland High School Chorale competed at the OMEA District 15 Large Group Adjudicated Event on March 9. The group received superior "I" ratings from all three floor adjudicators, and an overall superior "I" rating. The Chorale now qualifies for the State level competition in early May!
Three Franklin Heights Inprov Teams Compete at the Hilliard Davidson Improv Competition
On Friday, March 8, three Improv Teams from FHHS will be competing at the Hilliard Davidson Improv Competition. The team captains are Bella Ott, Erin Widener and Lily Schwarz. The competition begins at 7:00 p.m. at Hilliard Davidson High School. Tickets are $5 per person.
Central Crossing Hosts 49 Winter Guard and Percussion Ensembles from around the State
CCHS will host 49 winter guard and percussion ensembles from around the state at the Annual Ohio Indoor Performance Association Competition on March 10. Performances begin at 10:00 a.m. Tickets are $8.
Tackle Illiteracy
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South-Western City School District Rated EXCELLENT by the Ohio Department of Education for the Third Year in a Row!
Congratulations to the students, staff, parents and community of the South-Western City School District! It's official! We're rated EXCELLENT for the third year in a row! And our Value-Added score ranks us 12th in the State! This is certainly a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, staff, parents and community!
Central Crossing BPA Team Raises $1,293 for Special Olypmics
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Congratulations to the CCHS BPA team that raised $1,293 for Special Olympics by participating in the Polar Plunge at the Columbus Zoo. The CCHS team was the TOP fundraising team in the school group category and they will be receiving a trophy for this honor. |
PTAs Honor Helping Hands Recipients
On Tuesday, February 26, 2013, the South-Western City Schools Council of PTAs and its member units honored the 2013 Helping Hands recipients from across the South-Western City School District. Recipients of the award are actively involved with their local PTA unit or council and have made a positive impact on the lives of children through activities involving children and youth. The 2013 recipients by PTA unit are:
Central Crossing High School................................................................. Debi Campbell |
Brookpark Middle School........................................................................ Earl Groves |
Franklin Woods Intermediate School...................................................... Theresa Meyer |
Alton Hall Elementary School.................................................................. Jennifer Miller |
South-Western City Schools Council of PTAs........................................ Sue Zeszotek |
Click here to view the press release.
Grove City Sophomore Qualifies to Compete in OHSAA Gymnastics Meet
Congratulations to GCHS sophomore Erin Maynard for qualifying to compete in the OHSAA Gymnastics meet this Saturday (3/2) in the All-Around event! She scored a 35.2 to qualify! Good Luck Erin!
Central Crossing Sophomore cast in "Rent"
Congratulations to CCHS sophomore Crystal Turner, who was recently cast in the All-Ohio show "Rent" produced by the International Thespian Society! Crystal was one of 85 students from across Ohio who auditioned for the show.!
Grove City High School Concert Orchestra Received an "Excellent Rating at the Ohio Music Education's State Contest
The Grove City High School Concert Orchestra received an "Excellent rating at the Ohio Music Education's State Contest. The GCHS Symphony Orchestra received a rating of "Superior" in Class A for the fifth consecutive year. Congratulations to the students in both orchestras!
Westland High School Chamber Orchestra Received an "Excellent" Rating at the Ohio Music Education Association's State Contest
The Westland High School Chamber Orchestra received an "Excellent" rating at the Ohio Music Education Association's State Contest. The orchestra members worked very hard and performed well. Congratulations on a job well done!
Elementary Construction Project Community Meetings
Want to learn more about the elementary construction project? It's getting exciting! The first four buildings to be replaced are Alton Hall, Harmon, Monterey and Prairie Norton Elementary Schools. Each building will be hosting a community meeting to review the process, explain next steps, show photos of the exterior and interior rooms of the buildings, and allow community members to ask questions about the project. Join us on one of the following dates at 6:30 p.m.:
- March 7 at Alton Hall, 1000 Alton Road, Galloway
- March 11 at Harmon, 2090 Frank Road, Columbus
- March 12 at Monterey, 2584 Dennis Lane, Grove City
- March 12 at Prairie Norton, 117 Norton Road, Columbus
Grove City City Council Members Kick Off the 2013 Reach Out and Read Across Our Community program
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Grove City City Council members helped kick of the 2013 Reach Out and Read Across Our Community program with a proclamation! |
GCHS Senior Advances to State Swimming Championships
Congratulations to GCHS senior Jack Bailey, who has advanced to State Swimming Championships! He will compete in the 100-meter freestyle on Friday, February 22 at Canton McKinley H.S. Jack previously competed in the state meet during his freshman year as a member of the 200-meter freestyle relay team.
Grove City High School Music Students Earn High Rating at Ohio Music Education Association Solo and Ensemble Contest
On February 16th, the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) District XV Solo and Ensemble Contest was held at Pickerington North High School. Students prepared and performed solo and ensemble musical literature and were evaluated using a five-point OMEA rating system with one ("Superior") being the highest rating. The Grove City High School Music Department had a total of 172 music events with 122 events earning a "Superior" (I) rating and 40 events earning an "Excellent" (II) rating.
- GCHS music students who performed a solo and earned a “Superior” (I) rating in class “A” (the most difficult music) were:
- Robert Adams, Tenor Saxophone
- Owen Baker, Tuba
- Philip Baltzer, Cello
- Mallory Boswell, Bb Clarinet
- Nick Bova, Melodic Percussion
- Bailey Clanin, Bb Clarinet
- Jennifer Colborn, Flute
- Lauren Cook, Bb Clarinet
- Michael Corbett, Euphonium
- Kristen Costlow, Oboe
- Emily Cotton, Trumpet
- David Coulter, Tuba
- Michael Cowan, Bass
- Brandon Davenport, Euphonium
- Andrew Decker, Snare Drum
- Jake Fields, Melodic Percussion
- Andrew Graham, Snare Drum
- Jeremiah Haines, Trombone
- Matt Hakes, Alto Saxophone
- Megan Hirth, Flute
- Heather Hobbs, Trumpet
- Hilary Hobbs, Oboe
- Evie Jenkins, Oboe
- Ellen Johnston, Euphonium
- Wyatt Kinsinger, Melodic Percussion
- Amber Kocks, Violin
- Erica Kruse, Oboe
- Lydia Ledbetter, Melodic Percussion
- Rebecca Lehman, Soprano
- Tarah Mason, Soprano
- Natalie McCormick, Alto Saxophone
- Joshua McMurray, Bass
- Joshua McMurray, Oboe
- Allison McNeely, Mezzo Soprano
- Tyler McNeil, Bassoon
- Kristen Mesler, Trumpet
- Olivia Mesler, Melodic Percussion
- Mary Miller, Bb Clarinet
- Becca Mix, Flute
- Rebecca Mix, Soprano
- JT Nance, Snare Drum
- Jordan Payne, Bassoon
- Augusta Reisling, French Horn
- David Saunders, Snare Drum
- Nicholas Shew, Trombone
- Jacob Smith, Tenor Saxophone
- Trey Smith, Melodic Percussion
- Jacob Stuckert, French Horn
- Abby Swearingen, Piano
- Elizabeth Tolar, Violin
- David Tucker, Bassoon
- Hannah Welch, Piano
- Hannah Welch, Trumpet
- Tristan White, Bb Clarinet
- Hannah Wittenberg, Oboe
- Emma Wooldridge, Euphonium
- Abby Yeater, Trumpet
- Nicholas Young, Tenor Saxophone
- Sarah Zonders, French Horn
- GCHS music students who performed in an ensemble and earned a “Superior” (I) rating in class “A” (the most difficult music) were:
- Brass Sextet- Andy Colborn, Isaac Cook, David England, Josh Mathews, Ryan Ripley, Joseph Smith
- Brass Sextet- Owen Baker, Calvin Clark, Michael Corbett, Emily Cotton, Cyler McClure, Sarah Zonders
- Brass Sextet- Katy Butler, David Coulter, Brandon Davenport, Heather Hobbs, Kristen Mesler, Eric Rogers
- Clarinet Choir- Latanya Adams, Mallory Boswell, Bailey Clannin, Lauren Cook, Kristen Costlow, Aaron Gue, Katie Haines, Eden Humphrey, Kennedi McCoy, Mary Miller, Sarah Pennington, Katie Perkins, Abby Rhonemus, Elise Seeley, Katie Sheets
- Horn Quartet- Katy Butler, Melissa Kauffman, Augusta Reisling, Sarah Zonders
- Saxophone Quartet- Natalie McCormick, Josh McMurray, Jordan Payne, Sarah Wilson
- Trumpet Trio- Emily Cotton, Heather Hobbs, Kristen Mesler
- Woodwind Quintet- Katy Butler, Megan Hirth, Hilary Hobbs, Jordan Payne, Katie Sheets
- Woodwind Quintet- Erica Kruse, Sarah Zonders, Lexi Ledbetter, David Tucker, Bailey Clanin
- Woodwind Trio- Kelsey Allmon, Hilary Hobbs, Becky Sutton
- Woodwind Trio- Jordan Payne, Adam Steere, David Tucker
- Percussion Ensemble- Matthew Baltzer, Andrew Bollinger, Nick Bova, David Coulter, Brandon Davenport, Andrew Decker, Jake Fields, Will Horner, Blake Kelly, Wyatt Kinsinger, Lydia Ledbetter, Tommy Leimgruber, Olivia Mesler, Andrew Miller, JT Nance, Tyler NcNeil, Trey Smith, Nathaniel Ward
- Percussion Ensemble- Matthew Baltzer, Andrew Bollinger, Nick Bova, Andrew Decker, Jake Fields, Blake Kelly, Wyatt Kinsinger, Lydia Ledbetter, Tommy Leimgruber, Olivia Mesler, JT Nance, Trey Smith, Nathaniel Ward
- Tenor/Bass Vocal Ensemble- Jeremiah Haines, Josh McMurray, Jacob Stuckert, Will Horner
- GCHS music students who performed a solo and earned an “Excellent” (II) rating in class “A” (the most difficult music) were:
- Hannah Bailey, Oboe
- Katie Banghoff, Alto Saxophone
- Udit Basu, Violin
- Holly Blankenship, Alto
- Katy Butler, French Horn
- Emily Carter, Soprano
- Anne Hammen, Trombone
- Lauren Singleton, Violin
- Becky Sutton, Flute
- Amber Vorys, Alto Saxophone
- Alex Wenger, Trombone
- Sarah Wooldridge, Trombone
- Dylan Yurco, Tenor
- GCHS music students who performed in an ensemble and earned an “Excellent” (II) rating in class “A” (the most difficult music) were:
- Flute Trio- Carley Hanlon, Kayla Heacock, Sara Stoll
- Trombone Quartet- Jeremiah Haines, Anne Hammen, Eric Rogers, Nick Shew
- Trumpet Trio- Jacob Bailey, Abby Montgomery, Hannah Welch.
- GCHS music students who performed a solo and earned a “Superior” (I) rating in class “B” were:
- Philip Baltzer, Piano
- Philip Baltzer, Tuba
- Emily Bertsch, Euphonium
- Jenna Bryant, Bb Clarinet
- Andy Colborn, French Horn
- David England, Trombone
- Aaron Gue, Bb Clarinet
- Sarah Hipple, Euphonium
- Emily Hirth, Alto Saxophone
- Maddie Hughes, Oboe
- Melissa Kauffman, French Horn
- Blake Kelly, Snare Drum
- Brice Knapp, Bassoon
- Haley Lash, Euphonium
- Lexi Ledbetter, Flute
- Rebecca Lehman, Piano
- Kennedi McCoy, Bb Clarinet
- Andy Miller, Snare Drum
- Abby Montgomery, Trumpet
- Taylor Nolan, Euphonium
- Chad Pennington, Violin
- Elizabeth Pierce, Trumpet
- Kayla Ranney, Bb Clarinet
- Brent Reichert, Alto Saxophone
- Peyton Sheets, Flute
- Chelsea Smith, Alto
- Joseph Smith, Euphonium
- Brendan Walters, Trombone
- Tyler Welch, Trumpet
- Katie Wilhelm, French Horn
- Alyssa Yeater, Euphonium
- GCHS music students who performed in an ensemble and earned a “Superior” (I) rating in class “B” were:
- Clarinet Quartet- Aaron Gue, Katie Haines, Kayla Ranney, Abby Rhonemus
- Trumpet Ensemble- Heather Hobbs, Jordan Sullivan, Tyler Welch, Abby Yeater.
- GCHS music students who performed a solo and earned an “Excellent” (II) rating in class “B” were:
- Jacob Bailey, Trumpet
- Matthew Baltzer, Snare Drum
- Megan Barr, Flute
- Isaac Cook, Tuba
- David Coulter, Melodic Percussion
- Ian Jewell, French Horn
- Megan Landis, Flute
- Thomas Leimgruber, Timpani
- Allison Marolt, Mezzo Soprano
- Joshua Mathews, Trumpet
- Kathryn McGue, Bb Clarinet
- Tyler McNeil, Timpani
- Elyssa Scott, Alto Saxophone
- Jacob Stuckert, Piano
- Andy Troyan, Trumpet
- GCHS music students who performed in an ensemble and earned an “Excellent” (II) rating in class “B” were:
- Brass Quartet- Alex Boyd, Abby Montgomery, Sarah Wooldridge, Alyssa Yeater
- Brass Sextet- Zach Haines, Emily Ross, Andy Troyan, Brendan Walters, Doug Wolfe, Alyssa Yeater
- Clarinet Quartet- Lilly Gardner, Kaleigh Hayes, Abby Roberts, Jenna Rutan
- Saxophone Quartet- Nicholas Sanders, Jake Smith, Adam Steere, Nicholas Young
- Woodwind Quintet-Karson Curry, Melissa Kauffman, Josh McMurray, Becca Mix, Abby Rhonemus.
- GCHS music students who performed a solo and earned a “Superior” (I) rating in class “C” were:
- Miranda Borden, Alto
- Alex Boyd, Trumpet
- Amber Kocks, Piano
- Allison McNeely, Mezzo Soprano
- Allison Rife, Soprano
- Jake Wenger, Alto Saxophone
- GCHS music students who performed in an ensemble and earned a “Superior” (I) rating in class “C” were:
- Clarinet Quartet- Delaney Conley, Kennedi McCoy, Kathryn McGue, Mary Miller
- Clarinet Trio- Jenna Bryant, Katie Haines, Jenna Bryant
- Flute Quartet- Amanda Denino, Brittany Spradling, Maddie Hire, Kaylee Burdette
- Violin Trio- Mason Sturm, Erin Hays, Paige Cordero
- Percussion Ensemble- David Coulter, Brandon Davenport, Will Horner, Tyler McNeil, Mary Miller, Taylor Nolan, Alex Wenger
- Violin Duet- Mackenzie Marcum, Lauren Singleton
- GCHS music students who performed a solo and earned an “Excellent” (II) rating in class “C” were:
- Matthew Baltzer, Piano
- Zachary Haines, Trumpet
- Kasey Lash, Trombone
- Mason K. Warner, Melodic Percussion
- GCHS music students who performed in an ensemble and earned an “Excellent” (II) rating in class “C” were:
- Saxophone Quartet- Katie Banghoff, Cyler McClure, Jacob Stevenson, Matt Hakes
Westland High School Music Students earn high ratings at the Ohio Music Education Association Solo & Ensemble Event
On February 16, 2013, the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) District XV Solo & Ensemble event was held at Pickerington North High School. Students prepared and performed solo and ensemble musical literature and were evaluated using a five-point OMEA rating system. Receiving a rating of I (Superior) means that a student performed at the highest level. Students selected music from three different classifications which are based on the difficulty of the music. Class A is the most difficult and is considered to be at the "state" level.
- Class A Solo
- Superior Rating:
- Alexandria Hixenbaugh – Mezzo Soprano
- Fernando Arteta – Tenor
- Lucas Rowe - Trumpet
- Excellent Rating
- Justin Pettis - Tuba
- Superior Rating:
- Class A Ensemble
- Superior Rating
- Westland High School Chorale – SATB Chamber Ensemble
- Saxophone Quintet – Paul Olear, Megan Matheny, Treston Warren, Ryan Covington, Zach Marlowe
- Brass Quintet – Lucas Rowe, Delaney Brochowski, Ali Hixenbaugh, Eric Farris, Justin Pettis
- Excellent Rating
- Clarinet Quartet 1 – Megan Comer, Cierra Snodgres, Elizabeth Maynard, Becki Nauta
- Superior Rating
- Class B Solo
- Superior Rating
- Rayna Powell – Soprano
- Erin Bower – Mezzo Soprano
- Ashlyn Hill – Mezzo Soprano
- Kassidy Brindley – Mezzo Soprano
- Excellent Rating
- Michaela Williams – Mezzo Soprano
- Jessica Eckle – Alto
- Kyle Snyder – Tenor
- Krista Boop – Flute
- Sarah Wright – Viola
- Superior Rating
- Class B Ensemble
- Superior Rating
- Westland Upperclassmen Men's Ensemble – TTBB Ensemble
- Flute Trio – Kristalyn France, Bailey Steward, Chelsea Myers
- Clarinet Choir – Cierra Snodgres, Megan Comer, Elizabeth Maynard, Amber Templin, Kaitlyn Bennett, Laura Perez, Kayci Berkhemer, Becki Nauta, Ahnisea Gardner, Jenni Moscato
- Excellent Rating
- Violin Duet – Liudeli Torres and Ethan Swisher
- Superior Rating
- Class C Solo
- Superior Rating
- Elizabeth Maynard – Alto
- Sarah Wright – Alto
- Justin Pettis – Bass
- Superior Rating
- Class C Ensemble
- Superior Rating
- Flute Choir – Bailey Steward, Chelsea Myers, Kristalyn France, Hannah Matheny, Katelyn Ohrman, Rachel Benedum
- Excellent Rating
- Clarinet Quartet 2 – Kaitlyn Bennett, Kayci Berkhemer, Laura Perez, Jenni Moscato
- Saxophone Choir – Tyler Hoffman, Noah Woodson, Ashley Reyes, Roman Novikov, Jimi Kefauver, Sean Ponce, Riley Swincher
- Superior Rating
Autism awareness
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Tackle Illiteracy
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Park Street students host visitors from Hong Kong
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Four Westland Photography Students Recognized at Ohio’s Central Region Show of the National Scholastic Art and Writing Competition
Westland had four photography students recognized at Ohio’s Central Region Show of the National Scholastic Art and Writing Competition. The gold key awarded photos will now move on to the state level of competition. The following students were honored at the Columbus College of Art and Design on January 27:
- Sydney Brown, 12th Grade, Photography, Gold Key Award
- Brooke Patterson, 12th Grade, Digital Art, Gold Key Award
- Evan Hlava, 11th Grade, Photography, (2) Silver Key Award
- Evan Hlava, 11th Grade, Photography, (2) Honorable Mentions
- Destinie Ford, 10th Grade, Digital Art, Honorable Mention
Congratulations to Westland Area Library Photo Contest Finalists
The Westland Area Library hosted its second photo contest. Congratulations to:
- 1st Place-Sydney Brown-WHS
- 2nd Place-Colyn Taylor-WHS
- 3rd Place-Evan Hlava-WHS
- 1st Honorable Mention-Tyler Engard-GCHS
- 2nd Honorable Mention-Tiffany Legg-SWCA
- 3rd Honorable Mention-Sasha Bovaroy-WHS
GCHS Senior named 2013 National Merit Scholarship Finalist
Congratulations to GCHS senior Kelsey Allmon for being named a 2013 National Merit Scholarship Finalist. Out of 1.5 million seniors nationwide, Kelsey made the cut to the final 1% to be named a finalist.
Park Street Intermediate School welcomes 12 students from Hong Kong
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Park Street Intermediate School welcomes 12 students from Hong Kong this week. At the welcoming ceremony, PSIS students sang the Chinese New song while the Hong Kong students sang Auld Lang Syne. Attached is a photo of Grove City Mayor Richard "Ike" Stage with the visiting students and teachers. |
Visiting author inspires teacher, students at Franklin Woods
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Local service members part of inauguration history
Marine Master Sgt. Randall Riffle, 1980 GCHS graduate, is part of the Marine Band that played at the President's Inauguration.
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Grove City band wins top Fiesta Bowl prizes
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Congratulations Grove City High School Marching Band
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The Grove City High School Marching Band is the first band in nine years to win both the Fiesta Bowl Parade Competition and the Fiesta Bowl National Band Championship! They won their second GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP again today: Fiesta Bowl National Band Championship results:
Fiesta Bowl Parade Competition results:
Way to go GCHS Marching Band! Click here to see additional pictures. |
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Carter's Law becomes a reality
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Westland Cougars read at the Westland Area Library.
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GCHS Senior Named 2012 Nationwide Children's Hospital "Tomorrow's Scientist" Award recipient
GCHS senior Darria Streeter has been named the 2012 Nationwide Children's Hospital "Tomorrow's Scientist" Award recipient! The award is presented to the most outstanding student participating in the Summer Scientist Internship Program. Congratulations Darria!.
McComb named Outstanding Art Teacher
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Welcome Home Anthony Hahn! Thank You!
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Last year third graders in Jen Kuhn-Lawson's third grade class at Finland Elementary School began corresponding with former Finland student Anthony Hahn while he was serving in Afghanistan. This year Ms. Kuhn-Lawson's current third graders and former students got to meet Anthony and thank him in person for his service to our country. |
School Board Finalizes Land Purchase
At its December 10, 2012 regularly scheduled meeting, the South-Western City School District Board of Education completed a purchase agreement for 43.383 acres of land, located adjacent to the corner of Holt and Big Run South Roads in the City of Columbus. This will become the site of the replacement building for North Franklin Elementary School, as part of the district's construction project with Ohio School Facilities Commission (OSFC).
Click here to view the press release.
BPOE Lodge #37 donates dictionaries to SWCS 3rd Graders
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Thank you to BPOE Lodge #37 for donating personal dictionaries to all third graders in the South-Western City Schools! The Elks are partnering with the SWCS PTA units to distribute the dictionaries at the schools. |
Carl "Blackie" Black visits BMS
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Sgt. Carl "Blackie" Black, a WWII Army medic, visited Mrs. Ranney's classes at Brookpark Middle School on Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day to share his experiences during the war. Blackie is 95 years young! He shared many memories, military memorabilia and stories of the places he was stationed during the war. |
Congratulations to the FHHS 2012-2013 National Honor Society Inductees
Congratulations to the FHHS 2012-2013 National Honor Society Inductees: Juniors - Anna Bratton, Yana Burdak, Mary-Katherine Butlerwion, Evan Byrnes, Alex Campbell, Alexandra Durrie, Aissata Diallo, Megan Donovan, Amaria Gardner, Alex Gifford, Brandon Hackenberg, Ahmad Hasan, Alaa Hussein, Emma Jones, Kayla Kerns, Gabriella King, Kaity Mullins, Austin Murdoch, Brannon Oiler, Joseph Ozias, Nick Rich, Taylor Ringle, Breanna Salyer, Danya Trejo, Eric Thornton, Amira, Turner and Seniors - Ricky Johnson, Kyle Nelson, Randall Scott, David Skaggs.
CCHS SADD Field Trip
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CCHS SADD members Brittany Woods, Courtney O'Conner, Nevauda Leach, Spencer Edwards, Cynthia Layne, Marc Russell, Andrew Russell, Jackie Fowler, Kelsie Rivers, Matt Miller, Caleb Mosley and Savannah Bigelow visitied students at J.C. Sommer, West Franklin, Holt Crossing and Darbydale to discuss Anty-Bullying with the younger students. |
Speaker urges students to make a difference
Click here to read the full article.
A lesson in perserverance
Click here to read the full article.
Local teacher's experience on "The Price is Right"
Click here to read the full article.
Hayes Art Teacher receives OAEA Outstanding Art Teacher Award
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Congratulations to Dr. Camilla McComb, Hayes art teacher, who is the 2012 recipient of the Ohio Art Education Association – Central Region – Outstanding Art Teacher award! She received her "Oscar" at the 2012 OAEA Conference in Cincinnati. Dr. McComb was selected from all OAEA members within the central region of Ohio for her outstanding work and advocacy for the arts in education. |
Harmon Elementary earns SOAR Award
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Congratulations to the students and staff of Harmon Elementary School for earning a Battelle for Kids High Progress School SOAR Award! To earn this award, a school must be among the top schools of all participating SOAR schools showing above average progress in math and reading. |
Brookpark Middle School Student to perform in BalletMet Columbus The Nutcracker
Congratulations to Brookpark student Mackenzie LaFlamme! Mackenzie will be performing in the BalletMet Columbus production of The Nutcracker in December.
Central Crossing High School Marching Band heading to Nationals
The Central Crossing High School Marching Band will be leaving Thursday to compete their show "Unchained" at Nationals in Indianapolis at the Lucus Oil Stadium, representing the South-Western City Schools! They will compete against 100 of the best bands in the Nation! Please wish them the best of luck as they worked really hard to make it here! GO COMETS!!!
Westland High School Marching Band earns Superior rating at 2012 OMEA contest
Congratulations to the Westland High School Marching Band for earning an Excellent rating at the 2012 OMEA contest at Hilliard Bradley HS!
SWCS Alumni featured in GQ magazine
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Alumni News: SWCS graduate Corbin Clay is one of five national finalists featured in the November issue of GQ Magazine. He's being recognized as an entrepreneur for his business, The Azure Furniture Company. More information can be found online at AGentlemansCall.com. Corbin is the son of retired SWCS teacher Jane Clay. |
GCHS raises money for ALS research
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GCHS raised more than $900 for ALS research as a pre-game cornhole tournament. Shown in the picture (L-R) are: GCHS Principal Mike Starner, ALS patient Dave Starner, OSU Researcher Dr. Stephen Kolb, GCHS student Sam Timmons and GCHS teacher John Bova. |
Franklin Heights High School Marching Band earns Superior rating at 2012 OMEA contest
Congratulations to the Franklin Heights Golden Falcon Marching Band for earning a Superior rating at the 2012 OMEA contest at Hilliard Bradley HS!
Central Crossing High School Marching Band earns Superior rating at 2012 OMEA contest
Congratulations to the Central Crossing Marching Band for earning a Superior rating at the OMEA State Finals at Hilliard Bradley HS!!
ALS Awareness at Hayes Intermediate School
Click here to read the full article.
Franklin Heights High School Marching Band earns Grand Champions Title at Tri-Valley Band Classic
Congratulations also to the Franklin Heights Golden Falcons Marching Band! They competed in the Tri-Valley Band Classic on Saturday, October 20 and earned First Place in Class A, First Place in Marching and GRAND CHAMPIONS Overall.
Westland High School Marching Band received a "Superior" rating to qualify for State Marching Band Finals
The Westland High School Marching Band competed at the Tri-Valley Marching Festivall on Saturday, October 20. The band received a Superior rating, which qualifies them for a performance at the State Marching Band Finals next Saturday. The band placed third in its class and the percussion section received the award for "Best Percussion," scoring the highest out of the 21 bands that competed.
Grove City High School Marching Band earns Grand Champions Title in Brunswick Sound Spectacular
The Grove City High School Marching Band competed in Brunswisk Sound Spectacular on Saturday, October 20. The Band earned Best Color Guard Class AA, Best Percussion Class AA, First Place Class AA, Best Color Guard Overall, Best Music Overall, Best General Effect Overall, Best Visual Effect Overall, and GRAND CHAMPIONS Overall.
Central Crossing High School Marching Band earns Grand Champions Title in Westerville North HS Mid States
Congratulations to the Central Crossing High School Marching Band for their Outstanding Performanceon Saturday, October 20 at Westerville North HS Mid States! The Band earned Overall Best Percussion, Overall Best Auxiliary, Overall Best Visual, Overall Best Music, Overall General Effect and was crowned Overall GRAND CHAMPION out of nine other talented bands. The Band took home a total of 12 Trophies!
Jackson volleyball players support coach
Click here to read the full article.
Grove City High School Art Club students create mural
Click here to read the full article.
2012 SWCS Marching Band Showcase videos |
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School Fight Songs and Trophey Presentation You can also view the videos on the SWCSDistrict YouTube channel |
CCHS NJROTC Rifle Team Cadet breaks record
Congratulations to CCHS NJROTC Rifle Team cadet Daylin Van Steenburg, who broke the old CCHS record in shooting at the Montgomery Bell Academy Rifle Classic in Nashville, TN this past weekend to win the GOLD MEDAL!! She earned a score of 557 to break Jim Fitz' 2006 record of 549.
Grove City Marching Band performed at the OSU Invitational and Teays Valley Invitational
The GCHS Marching Band performed at the OSU Invitational yesterday in the SHOE. They won Best Music, Best General Effect, Best Marching, Highest overall Score. Then later in day to Teays Valley Invitational. Best Percussion, Best Color Guard, Best Field Commanders, Best Music, Best General Effect, Best Marching, 1st Place Class AA, overall Grand Champs! OUTSTANDING!
Congratulations to FWI School student Sydney Cooley
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Congratulations to Franklin Woods Intermediate School student Sydney Cooley, who was selected to participate in the opening ceremony with the USA Gold Medalists in the Kellogg's Tour of Gymnastics Champions! The event takes place on November 4 at the Schottenstein Center. |
Congratulations to our 2012 GED Graduates
For a full listing of our graduates' names, click here.
Fire Safety for Kids
October 7-13 is Fire Protection Week. The Fire Safety for Kids Website teaches kids basic home fire safety. The site discusses the importance of smoke alarms and what children should do when the smoke alarm goes off. The site also teaches the importance of having a family escape plan and practicing it regularly to increase the likelihood that if a fire breaks out, children will know how to respond appropriately.
Franklin Heights Golden Falcon Marching Band received a "Superior" rating to qualify for OMEA State Finalist Competition
The Franklin Heights Golden Falcon Marching Band received a "Superior" rating to qualify for the OMEA State Finalist Competition to be held at Hilliard Bradley H. S. on October 27. The Band received its Superior rating at its very first competition also held at Hilliard Bradley. This marks the 21st year in a row that the Band has qualified for State Finals - one of the longest runs in the state! Don't miss the Band as it performs at the 2012 Marching Band Showcase at Grove City High School on Tuesday, October 16 at 7:00 p.m.
Staff recognized at Central Region OSBA Fall Conference
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North Franklin second grade teacher Rebecca Headington was honored as an outstanding educator of the Central Region of the Ohio School Boards Association. Rebecca started the 2011-12 school year with 34.7% of her students below grade level in reading and finished the year with 100% of the students reading at or above grade level. |
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Steven J. Smith, Jr. was recognized at the Central Ohio OSBA Fall Conference. Steve donated his time to develop and file the necessary paperwork for the Success Beyond the Classroom Foundation to obtain its 501(c)(3) status as well as created a 70+page template for other districts to use when creating similar foundations. |
Westland High School Marching Band places second overall at the Medowbrook Invitational
The Westland High School Marching Band competed at the Meadowbrook Invitational on Saturday, September 29. The band placed second overall, and first overall in percussion. The band also placed second in visual effect and general effect, first in visual performance, and third in music and colorguard. The band's score improved five points from their previous show. Go cougars!
Westland High School Marching Band receives Superior Rating
The Westland High School Marching Band competed at the Canal Winchester marching invitational on Saturday, September 22. The band received a Superior rating, which qualifies them for a performance at the State Marching Band Finals in late October. The band placed third in its class and the percussion section received the award for "Best Percussion", scoring the highest out of the 12 bands that competed. The Westland Band will also compete Saturday, September 29 at Meadowbrook High School.
SWCS officials anticipating best school report card from state
Click here to read the full article.
Congratulations to Board Vice President Randy Reisling
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Congratulations to Board Vice President Randy Reisling, who was recognized by the Ohio School Boards Association for his service to the organization. |
Congratulations to the Central Crossing Cheerleaders!
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Congratulations to the Central Crossing Cheerleaders! They competed at the Americheer Camp at Ohio Dominican University. The freshmen received an overall excellent award and the Varsity received the highest honor of the overall superior award. All teams received a spirit stick and first place for crowd crazies as well as third place for the home dance. |
Central Crossing Students Attempt to Break World Record
Click here to read the full article.
Congratulations to the members of the 2012 CCHS Homecoming Court!
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Back Row (Left to Right): Casey McManaway (So.), Caleb Mosley (Jr.), Evan Fogle (Sr.), Zach Wyatt (Sr.), Will Bohne (Sr.), Nader Akrouche (Sr.), Austin Albert (Jr.), Noah Stephens (Fr.) Front Row (Left to Right): Angel Akabuaku (Fr.), Hannah Wackernagle (Jr.), Kayleigh Mahoney (Sr.), Megan Hendershot (Sr.), Becca Heavener (Sr.), Sarah Chole (Sr.), Jackie Fowler (Jr.), McKenzie Swain (Fr.) |
GCHS Student Named 2013 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist
Congratulations to GCHS student Kelsey Allmon for being named a semifinalist in the 2013 National Merit Scholarship Competition!
WHS Freshmen Commit to Graduate
Click here to see the photo gallery.
Congratulations to our new Master Teachers
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Congratulations to our new Master Teachers: James Farthing, Julie Mainella, Erin McCloskey, Alison Plotts and Jane White! |
The School Day Just Got Healthier!
Click here to read the full article.
Another story about WHS student Greg Rummel!
Click here to read the full article.
Westland sophomore ties black around waist; someday hopes to hang gold from neck
Click here to read the full article.
Be the Difference, Make a Difference.
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Westland High School's theme for the year is "Be the Difference, Make a Difference." This year, on the first day of school, Westland hosted three WHS graduates, who addressed students about staying in school and having a plan for the future : Barrett Brooks - WHS and University of Findlay graduate and inductee into the Westland Athletic Hall of Fame; Mark Kay - WHS and Cornell graduate; and Tony Jackson - WHS and OSU graduate and football alumni. As a follow-up to this, freshman students will be signing a "Commit to Graduate" banner in September. |
CCHS Staff Members raise money at 2012 Pelatonia for Cancer Research
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Congratulations to CCHS staff members, Captain Peter MacKay, Bryan O'Shea and Jodi Brown, who rode their bicycles in the 2012 Pelatonia on August 11, 2012. They raised nearly $5,000 and rode 250 miles for the James Cancer Hospital at The Ohio State University. |
Central Crossing Marching Band participates in Grand Opening
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Members of the Central Crossing High School Marching Band participated in the City of Grove City's grand opening and first official drive on the new single-point urban interchange at 71 and 665. |
Congratulations 2012 Summer Graduates!
Central Crossing NJROTC Team places 2nd in the National Junior Olympic Air Rifle Championships
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The Central Crossing NJROTC Team recently competed in the National Junior Olympic Air Rifle Championships in Anniston, Alabama. The team placed second out of the top 23 sporter air rifle teams from around the country. Their total score of 2,147 on the first day of the two-day competition set a new CCHS team record from 2006. The team, led by Rifle Team Commander Eric Bohanan, was comprised of a representative from each grade. Bohanan, a recently graduated senior, junior Justus Parsley, sophomore Rebekah Slane and freshman Daylin VanSteenburg. This is the highest finish by the the Comets at this prestigious national air rifle event. |
2012 SWCS PTA Scholarship Awards
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The PTA units in the South-Western City Schools PTA Council have generously supported the graduating seniors of the South-Western City School District for more than four decades.
Click here for the full 2012 scholarship listing.
Congratulations Class of 2012! We're proud of you! |
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2012 PRIDE Awards
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The South-Western City School District Board of Education is honored to host this special event to recognize the many accomplishments of its high school students. These students represent some of the finest young women and men in the State of Ohio. They have demonstrated their excellence in the areas of academics, athletics, visual and performing arts, leadership, technical skills, and recognized awards of distinction.
Click here to view a copy of the event program and list of awards.
GCHS Jazz Band Finishes First in Class AA
Congratulations to the GCHS Jazz Band for its outstanding performance this past Saturday at the Music in the Park Competition at the Oak Harbor site of Cedar Point. They finished 1st in Class AA for high school jazz bands and were recognized for the Best Overall Performance. Will England was named as the Best Jazz Soloist. The group also earned a Superior rating with an overall score of 98.6! Great job GCHS Jazz Band!!!
CCHS Jazz Band Finishes First in Class AA
Congratulations to the CCHS Jazz Band for its tremendous performance this past Saturday at the Music in the Park Competition at Cedar Point. They finished 1st in Class AA for high school jazz bands and were recognized for the Best Overall Performance. Hannah Wilhelm was named as the Best Jazz Soloist. The group also earned a Superior rating with an overall score of 98.25! Way to go CCHS Jazz Band!!!
Finland Middle School 7th & 8th Grade Mixed Choir earns Superior and First Place Award
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Congratulations to the Finland Middle School 7th and 8th Grade Mixed Choir for their unanimous Superior Ratings and First Place Award at Kings High School on May 19! The students performed two pieces from memory for two college judges to earn a total of four Superior ratings at the event. Outstanding! |
GCHS senior earns Notre Dame scholarship
Click here to read the full article.
Holt Crossing Intermediate and SWCS mentioned in SOAR Collaborative report
Battelle for Kids recently completed the SOAR Collaborative: Stories of High Growth and 10 Lessons Learned paper that highlights and details the value of the SOAR Collaborative. Holt Crossing Intermediate School and SWCS are mentioned on pages 3 and 5. SWCS had the fourth highest value-added composite index of the 610 districts in the state with value-added information.
Click here for the full report.
PVMS 7th and 8th Grade Bands receive Superior Rating at OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Event
The Pleasant View Middle School Instrumental Music Program sent two bands, 7th and 8th grade, to the Ohio Music Education Association Large Group Adjudicated Event on Friday, May 11th, 2012 at Central Crossing High School. Bands, orchestras, and choirs from all over Central Ohio were evaluated by 3 judges based on their achievement of musical excellence. Both the 7th Grade Band and the 8th Grade Band received the highest rating, 'SUPERIOR', from all three judges, and were praised for their attention to detail and musicianship. Congratulations to both groups on their outstanding performances!
SWCS Bus Driver Sara Baer has been named the Driver of the Year
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Congratulations to SWCS Bus Driver Sara Baer! Sara has been named the Driver of the Year by the Ohio Association of Pupil Transportation Central Region! Sara has been a bus driver for 14 years and has never missed a day of work. Sara was nominated for the award by fellow driver Linda Ross-Ruff. |
May 7 is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
Stan Heffner, State Superintendent of public instruction, reminds Ohioans that Monday, May 7, 2012, is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day in Ohio.
"Safely transporting students to and from school is vital to education," said Heffner. "The professionalism of Ohio's 15,000 school bus drivers is why the school bus remains – by far – the safest way for students to get to school.
Ohio school bus drivers transport over 900,000 students daily, travelling 1 million miles per day to accomplish that task. At the same time, the school bus safety record is unsurpassed, greatly exceeding that of automobiles, commercial buses and even passenger trains,
To qualify to become a school bus driver in Ohio, an applicant must complete pre-service training and certified on-bus training, pass a driving evaluation and obtain a commercial driver's license. In addition, drivers must pass pre-employment background and drug screenings. Drivers are required to be recertified every six years.
The Ohio Legislature designated the first Monday in May as School Bus Driver Appreciation Day to "increase public recognition of the important function that school bus drivers serve in safely transporting children to and from school."
2012 Employee Awards Recognition Night
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Click here for a list of the award recipients.
2012 National Technical Honor Society Induction
Congratulations new inductees: Tyler Austin, Yesenia Cortes, Ismahan Hassan, Kristen O'Quinn, Zachary Boggs, Courtney Campbell, Kelsi Cavanaugh, Jacob Funk, Serena Lam, Shawna Moore, Meghan Ray, Nancy Ruiz-Chagolla, Brittany Smith, Daquana Sullivan, Loren Svede, Aracely Valdez-Salgado and Rachel Wolford!
South-Western Council of PTAs Honor 2012 Outstanding Educators
On Tuesday, April 24, 2012, the South-Western Council of PTAs and its member units honored the 2012 Outstanding Educators from across the South-Western City School District. The 2012 Outstanding Educators by PTA unit are:
Central Crossing High School.................................................................Justin Gottshall |
Brookpark Middle School........................................................................Courtney Brisco |
Franklin Woods Intermediate School......................................................Susan DeGraaf |
Alton Hall Elementary School..................................................................Stephanie Mills |
South-Western Preschool........................................................................Mary Pat Fisher |
Franklin Heights Symphonic Band Earns Straight Superior Ratings
The Franklin Heights Symphonic Band scored straight "Superior" ratings at the OMEA District Large Group Adjudicated Event held March 17. The Band, competing in Class A, was given the top rating from all three stage judges plus the sight-reading judge. This honor qualifies the Band for the State Large Group Adjudicated Event on April 27/28. Congratulations!
Grove City Presented $1.68 Million to South-Western City Schools
 | Grove City Mayor Richard L. "Ike" Stage presented the South-Western City School District (SWCS) with more than $1.68 million of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds on Monday, March 26, based on an ongoing agreement between SWCS and the City. Click here for the full story. |
Westland Symphonic Band Earns Superior Rating
The Westland High School Symphonic Band earned a Superior rating at the Ohio Music Education Association's District Band Contest on Friday, March 16. The band performed in class "A," which is the second highest classification. The band earned praise for their preparation of a demanding contest program. This is the Symphonic Band's second Superior rating in three years. The symphonic band's contest repertoire included "Ignition" by Todd Stalter, "Them Basses" by G.F. Huffine, and "Havendance" by David Holsinger.
South-Western Students Eating Healthier at School
Click here for the full story.
South-Western gets Money for School Buildings
Click here for the full story.
Grove City High School Orchestra Earns Top Rating at State Contest
Congratulations to the Grove City High School Orchestra for their superior rating at the Ohio Music Education Association State Adjudicated Event on March 2 at Granville High School. The orchestra performed in class "A" (the highest classification with the most difficult music) and was awarded the top mark for their technical preparation and artistic interpretation of the music.
The students performed as a full orchestra, meaning the ensemble included strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion. This was the fourth consecutive superior rating in the highest class for the orchestra. The Grove City High School Orchestra and Boardman High School Symphony Orchestra are the the only two full orchestras in the state of Ohio to have earned the top rating in the top class four successive years.
The group's contest repertoire included Hector Berlioz's "Hungarian March, Bedrich Smetana's "The Moldau", and Jean Sibelius's "Finlandia".
PTAs Honor Helping Hands Recipients and Past Council Presidents
On Tuesday, February 28, 2012, the South-Western City Schools Council of PTAs and its member units honored the 2012 Helping Hands recipients from across the South-Western City School District. Recipients of the award are actively involved with their local PTA unit or council and have made a positive impact on the lives of children through activities involving children and youth. The 2012 recipients by PTA unit are:
| Central Crossing High School................................................................. Roxanne Chaney Franklin Heights High School.................................................................. Meta Swisher Grove City High School........................................................................... Sandra Straight Westland High School............................................................................. Elayne Swackhammer South-Western Career Academy............................................................ Karen Anthony |
| Brookpark Middle School........................................................................ Ranae Stevenson Finland Middle School............................................................................. Todd Reed Jackson Middle School........................................................................... Kay Turner Norton Middle School.............................................................................. Jim & Mary Meyer Pleasant View Middle School.................................................................. Carrie Thompson |
| Franklin Woods Intermediate School...................................................... Tammy Flowers Galloway Ridge Intermediate School...................................................... Heather Justice Hayes Intermediate School..................................................................... Joe Thum Holt Crossing Intermediate School.......................................................... Edgar Hatfield Park Street Intermediate School............................................................. Steve Rinehart |
| Alton Hall Elementary School.................................................................. Angelina Carson Buckeye Woods Elementary School...................................................... Jackie Wallace & Robin Parker Darbydale Elementary School................................................................ Rose Fout Darby Woods Elementary School........................................................... Tony DeMarco East Franklin Elementary School............................................................ Rob Wiggall Finland Elementary School..................................................................... Stephanie Jacobs Harmon Elementary School.................................................................... Carrie Weikert Highland Park Elementary School.......................................................... James Brooks Monterey Elementary School.................................................................. Cari Maynard North Franklin Elementary School.......................................................... Patricia Morales Prairie Lincoln Elementary School.......................................................... Jennifer Helser Prairie Norton Elementary School........................................................... Jackie Keaton Richard Avenue Elementary School....................................................... Patty Ruby J.C. Sommer Elementary School........................................................... Wes Denny Stiles Elementary School........................................................................ Jasmine Pike West Franklin Elementary School........................................................... Mike Kerins South-Western Preschool........................................................................ Norma Perkins |
| South-Western City Schools Council of PTAs........................................ Sandy Nekoloff |
| Westland High School Air Quality Reports |
Air Quality Testing Preliminary Report DRAFTAir Quality Testing Preliminary Report AppendixBureau of Workers' Comp Report WHS |
Teamwork emphasized on CCHS Special Olympics basketball team
Some Central Crossing High School special needs students are building teamwork skills while participating in the school's recently created Special Olympics basketball team.
Click here for the full story.
South-Western school bus drivers observed following 'no idling' policy
Click here for the full story.
Grove City High School Instrumental Students
Earn Exceptionally High Ratings
On February 4, 2012, the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) District XV Solo and Ensemble Contest was held at Pickerington North High School. Students prepared and performed solo and ensemble musical literature and were evaluated using a five-point OMEA rating system; I ("Superior") being the highest rating. Students performed music from three different classifications, which are based on the difficulty of the music selected. Class A is the most difficult and considered at the “state” level. The Grove City High School Instrumental Music Department had a total of 146 music events with 96 events earning a "Superior" (I) rating and 43 events earning an "Excellent" (II) rating, and 5 receiving a “Good” rating (III).
For more information, click here.
South-Western City School District Announces
2012 Kindergarten Registration Information
On Monday, February 6, 2012 all South-Western City School District elementary schools will begin taking calls to schedule kindergarten registration and screening appointments for the 2012-2013 school year.
To enter kindergarten, a child must be five years of age by September 30, 2012.
Parents are encouraged to call the elementary school in their attendance area to schedule an appointment to register their child for the 2012-2013 school year and also to schedule a screening/assessment appointment for their child.
- Kindergarten registration will take place at the South-Western City School District Student Enrollment Center, located at 4079 Gantz Road, Suite C2 in Grove City.
- Screening/assessment activities will be hosted at the student's home school.
After making the necessary appointments, the school will mail a Student Enrollment Packet to the parent(s).
For more information, click here.
South-Western District Leadership Team gets results
(See page 19 for the full article)
College Goal Sunday event
Sunday, February 12, 2012 at 2:00 p.m.
The free event, presented by the Ohio Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (OASFAA) and endorsed by the Ohio Board of Regents, assists students and parents with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is the federal application that is required to receive federal financial aid including the Federal Pell Grant and student loans as well as the need-based state grants.
Due to the great demand expected for assistance in completing the FASFA, families are encouraged to register for the free event at http://www.ohiocollegegoalsunday.org or by calling 1-800-233-6734. The FAFSA is the key to funding a college education and helping families to overcome financial barriers that otherwise prevent students from attending the institution they want to. Studies show that a student is 50% more likely to attend college when they complete the FAFSA. While walk-ins are welcome, registration is encouraged. Record numbers are expected to be in attendance.
Student's eagerness to learn impresses
At 12 months old, Udit Basu started watching video tapes his parents rented from the library. He was writing at 18 months old.
Now a 13-year-old Jackson Middle School student, he has passed high school algebra I and accelerated geometry courses, and currently is two years ahead of the typical college prep student in math and science, school officials said.
No one in The South-Western City School District "has yet accelerated through our math and science programs as quickly as Udit has," said Erik Shuey, executive director for high schools.
Click here for the full story.
Congratulations to the following Westland High School students for receiving awards at the Scholastic Art Competition
- Kristen Mazzara received a Gold Key award which is the highest honor and an Honorable Mention. Her Gold Key drawing will advance to national competition.
- Allie Lukacs received a Silver Key award.
- Denise Tiller received three Honorable Mention awards.
- Geovanny Pablo received an Honorable Mention award.
The artwork will be displayed at The Columbus College of Art and Design in the Canzani Center from January 20 through February 4 and can be viewed by the public from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily.
Board Seeks Southwest Public Library Trustee Applicants
Grove City – Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 3375.15, the South-Western City School District Board of Education is seeking applicants to fill a vacant Southwest Public Library Trustee seat resulting from the resignation of Marc Mays.
Mays' unfinished term extends through December 31, 2014. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and reside within the geographical boundaries of the South-Western City School District.
Applicants are asked to submit a letter of intent and resume to: SPL Trustee, C/O South-Western Board of Education, 3805 Marlane Drive, Grove City, Ohio 43123. All information must be received by the Board of Education no later than January 19, 2012.
South-Western City School District Board of Education Elects Officers
At its January 9, 2012 Organizational Meeting, the South-Western City School District Board of Education elected board member Mindy Garverick as president and board member Randy Reisling as vice president for the year 2012.
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The Oath of Office was administered to Mindy Garverick by Hugh W. Garside, Jr. |
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The Oath of Office was administered to Randy Reisling by Cathy Johnson. |
The board also adopted its 2012 meeting calendar.
Click here to view the press release.
South-Western City Schools Place Issue on Ballot
State to pay 50% of costs for renovated and new school buildings
On Monday, November 28, 2011, at its regularly scheduled meeting, the South-Western City School District Board of Education voted to place a "No New Millage" bond issue on the March 6, 2012 ballot for school facilities. The State, through the Ohio School Facilities Commission (OSFC), will pay $120,000,000 million toward the project, if the bond issue passes to fund the district's local share.
Click here to view the press release.
Franklin Academy to Open in South-Western City Schools
The Educational Service Center of Central Ohio (ESCCO) is partnering with the South-Western City School District to open a new alternative education program, which will be named the Franklin Academy. The Academy will open in January 2012 at 3225 Kingston Avenue in Grove City. This program will provide comprehensive services for elementary through high school age students who are at-risk for or may have emotional and behavioral challenges.
Click here to view the press release.
The South-Western City School District received a 2011 SOAR Award from Battelle for Kids.
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| 2011 SOAR Award for Significant Progress Districts |
Holt Crossing Intermediate School receives 2011 SOAR Awards from Battelle for Kids.
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| 2011 SOAR Award for School-Wise Subject-Area in Mathematics. |
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| 2011 SOAR Award for High Progress Schools |
SWCS Honor Choir Performs at OSBA Capital Conference
The SWCS Honor Choir performed at the 2011 Ohio School Boards Capital Conference. If you would like to hear both the SWCS Honor Choir and Honor Band perform, please plan to attend the 2011 South-Western Educational Foundation Benefit Concert on Thursday, November 17 at 7:00 p.m. in the Central Crossing High School Auditorium. Tickets are $10 each (tax deductible).
Fourth Grade Students Honor Veterans
Fourth grade students at Highland Park Elementary School honored Veterans of all branches of the Armed Services today!
District Receives Auditor of the State Award with Distinction
Brian Mead, from the Auditor of State's Office, congratulates SWCS Treasurer Hugh W. Garside, Jr. on receiving the Auditor of State Award with Distinction for receiving a 'clean' audit report.
South-Western is on the Cutting Edge of Radio Technology
(See page 12 for the full article)
Westland Key Club Students Host Library Reading Hour
Congratulations to our 2011 GED Graduates
For a full listing of our graduates' names, click here.
Jackson Middle School students take on Rachel's Challenge
School Board Recognizes AP Scholars and National Merit Semi-Finalists
At its October 10, 2011 regular meeting, the South-Western City School District Board of Education recognized 31 students for achieving Advanced Placement (AP) and two students for earning National Merit Semi-Finalist status.
Advanced Placement Scholars
The following students were recognized as an Advanced Placement Scholar, having earned a three or higher on three or more advanced placement exams:
Franklin Heights High School
| Alexandria Caplinger | Eddie Kayira | Reygan Simpson |
Grove City High School
| Sarah Blackburn | Zylyftar Gorica | Nicholas Patton |
| Richard Brown | Nathan McCormick | Austin Taliaferro |
| William England | Elisa Monhemius |
Westland High School
| Melissa Basel | Exodus King | Preshuslee Thompson |
| Nola Colegrove | Lindsay Snider |
Central Crossing High School
| Brittney Butler | Taylor Mathews | Autumn Stasheen |
| Jacob Cunagin | Esther Mburu | Abigail Tanner |
| Brandon Doherty | Jennifer Meyer | Andrea Vannoy |
| Jessica Howard | Edward Momot | Seth Wieging |
| Trisha Howard | Yuliya Prokopyuk | Heather Yoho |
The following students were recognized as an Advanced Placement Scholar with Honor, having received an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken and scores of three or higher on four or more exams:
Franklin Heights High School
| Kayla Diaz | Abigael Gast |
Grove City High School
| Andrew Bennett | Ty Payne | Lindsey Scarberry |
| Emily Mulvany | Adam Plank | Shelby Snashall |
Central Crossing
| Megan Ruffley | Tia Smith |
The following students were recognized as an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction, having received an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and scores of three or higher on five or more exams:
Grove City High School
| John Banghoff | Abbegail Wells |
Central Crossing High School
| Nathaniel Combs | Corey Meyer |
National Merit Semi-Finalists
In October of 2010, Grove City High School students Erin Tolar and William England took the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test along with 1,500,000 other high school juniors planning to enter college in 2012. Of those students, there were 50,000 “High Scorers” selected based on index scores. Of those 50,000 students, 34,000 were recognized as “Commended Students” for their outstanding academic promise. Of the 34,000 students, 16,000 are selected as “Semi-Finalists” based on earning the highest scores in their respective states.
South-Western is proud to have two National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalists who may continue to be selected as “Finalists” in February 2012. Congratulations to Erin Tolar and William England on this outstanding accomplishment!
Rachel's Challenge comes to Jackson Middle School
GCHS 2011 Homecoming Court
Grove City High School is proud to announce the members of its 2011 Homecoming Court. Front (L to R): Abby Wilson, Alex Kursinskis, Elayna Brizendine, Genna Crump, Miranda Inscho, Olivia Akers and Holly Colburn. Back: Rusty Woodworth, Jimmy Gravett, Tyler Kent, Luke Oman, Sam Coachman, Max Moore, and David Fraser.
The king and queen will be crowned before the home football game on Friday, September 30, 2011. The Homecoming dance will be on Saturday, October 1. This year's theme is "Red Carpet Affair."
WHS Key Club Return to School with International Award
Key Club members, Sinai Cruz-Santos, President, Haley Wihl, Secretary and Danielle White, Historian attended the Key Club International Convention in Phoenix, AZ June 28-July 3, 2011. While there, they accepted the International Key Club Third Place trophy for the “Major Emphasis” Club Project. The club project was based on the theme, “Children: their Future, Our Focus.”
WHS Magic Key Story Hour at the Westland Area Library is the monthly project/event that was entered by the club at the Ohio District level where it did not place. However, when entered to the International level, Westland High School received recognition for the dedication of members to the library event.
The Westland High School Key Club Magic Key Story Hour provides both reading and creative crafts. Magic Key Story Hour is marketed to children ages preschool through first grade children with dramatic story reading, hand-puppet stories and creative crafts centered on a fun seasonal theme, and always a snack. Themes (Pumpkins-a-Plenty, Fall Sports, Singing with Santa, Snow, Valentines) were generated to encourage children to dream, think creatively and develop social skills all through reading. The event takes place one Saturday a month from 1-2.
Upcoming dates are October 15, November 12, and December 10. Please plan to attend and stop by the display case at the Westland Area Library and take a look at the trophy and photos from previous Magic Key Story Hour.
Note: WHS Key Club is sponsored by Grove City Kiwanis Club.
Leading the Cheer for Acceptance!
School District Community Advisory Group Seeks Applicants for Three-Year Term
The Community Advisory Group is seeking applicants to serve for a three-year term. Applications may be sent to the District Service Center, 3805 Marlane Drive, Grove City, Ohio, 43123 (c/o David Riddle) or e-mailed to info@swcs.us. The deadline for applications is September 15, 2011.
In 2009, a Community Advisory Group was formed to assist the South-Western City School District's administration by providing input in the following areas:
- Increasing community awareness, understanding and education of the District's goals and objectives;
- Identifying short-term and long-term solutions, on a recommendation basis, to improve the overall educational quality and efficiency of the District;
- Recommending programs directed at recruiting and retaining excellent educators; and
- Identifying fiscal and funding alternative options, making recommendations to the District for long-term efficiency and financial stability.
Congratulations to the SWCA Pre-Engineering Team
Congratulations to the SWCA Pre-Engineering Team of Khadar Mohamed, Kyled McLaughlin and Katie Rucker for earning the BRONZE MEDAL at the SkillsUSA NATIONAL competition in Kansas City, KS! Congratulations to teachers Bill Henning and Dave Williams and advisor Bruce Kottman too. Job well done!
2010-2011 Retirees of the South-Western City School District
Congratulations to all of our employees on their retirement! You will be missed!
Click here for the full listing of 2010-2011 retirees.
South-Western Board and SWAA Reach Agreement
On Monday, June 13, 2011, the South-Western City School District Board of Education voted to enter into a new contract with the South-Western Administrators Association (SWAA).
The current contract ends June 30, 2011. The new agreement takes effect July 1, 2011 and will expire June 30, 2013.
Click here to view the press release.
SWCA Holds Career Passport Ceremony
South-Western Career Academy held its Annual Career Passport Ceremony on Thursday, May 26. The Career Passport is the communication link between school and the workplace. It is a portfolio containing documents that identify and describe the marketable skills of the career-technical completer. The Passport is designed to assist the graduate in making the transition from school to work, in job seeking, and in career planning. It is intended to help employers evaluate a person's capacity to perform the job.
Click here to view the program.
South-Western City Schools Host Christina’s Smile
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On May 31 through June 2, 2011 the South-Western City Schools hosted the Christina’s Smile dental clinic at Norton Middle School, 215 Norton Road, Columbus. The 2011 Christina’s Smile Children’s Dental Clinic at Norton Middle School is being co-sponsored by the Westland Area Business Association.
Now in its ninth year in the South-Western City Schools, Christina’s Smile is a free mobile dental clinic, run by Texas dentist Dr. Richard Garza, which services children between the ages of six and sixteen with no dental insurance. Dr. Garza, who treated many under-privileged children in his Austin, Texas dental practice for 22 years, conceived Christina’s Smile Children’s Dental Clinic in 1989.
Eighteen local dentists and dental assistants volunteer their time and talents to deliver high quality dental care to 120 South-Western students during the three-day clinic. Approximately $50-$60,000 worth of free dentistry is delivered during each three-day clinic. This year, the clinic served its 1000th South-Western student.
Click here for the full story.
