Chagrin Falls School News

November 12, 2020 by Staff Report

Outstanding Educator Award

Chagrin Falls High School teachers Carolyn Petite and Kenneth Kasee were selected for University of Chicago’s Outstanding Educator Award. Petite was nominated by Parker Broz, class of 2020, and Kasee was nominated by Maggie Mills, class of 2020.

The distinguished award has existed for more than three decades. Students accepted into the University of Chicago class of 2024 were asked to nominate an educator whose guidance has helped them along the path toward intellectual growth. Responses were received from thousands of students in recognition of educators who have positively impacted their lives.

A virtual event to celebrate these teachers took place on Oct. 21. Petite and Kasee will receive a commemorative award, certificate and letter that includes details from the student nomination.

Mills wrote, “Mr. Kasee remained a steadfast mentor, always there to guide me and answer any questions that I may have had. It was through his teaching and coaching that I learned the importance of hard work, creativity and confidence. Mr. Kasee goes above and beyond what is expected from ‘educators’ because he does not merely ‘educate’ his students. He cares about them, believes in them, and inspires them to attain their full potential.”

Broz wrote, “I am glad to have had a teacher so committed to her students. Mrs. Petite showed us the importance of passion and character. She was a caring mentor as well as a phenomenal educator. Mrs. Petite helped make computer science a life-shaping passion for me.”

CFMS Students of the Month

The Student of the Month award at Chagrin Falls Middle School acknowledges students for their outstanding performance and rewards them for their efforts. The students were chosen by seventh- and eighth-grade teams to be a “Tiger of the Month.” The students exemplify the Tiger Techniques of Think, Integrity, Grit, Effort and Responsibility. They receive personalized tiger water bottles from the PTO.

Chagrin Falls Middle School October Students of the Month are seventh-graders Ella Beatty and Jack Gellin and eighth-graders Grace Mossad and Charlie Polllock.

Ella Beatty has made the best out of a difficult situation and excelled in the CFMS Virtual Academy. She has shined among other students because she pays careful attention to her classmate’s work and makes insightful and kind comments. Ella has been a leader in Project Lead the Way (PLTW) by engaging in discussions and being a diligent worker who goes the extra mile. Even as a virtual-only student, Ella’s presence has been felt. Her creativity and love of reading show in class discussions and her enthusiasm for creative writing is contagious. She always participates in Spanish class and her skills in the language are impressive, as is her ability to connect with her classmates and provide encouragement to her peers.

Jack Gellin’s work shows his effort and understanding. His assignments are completed on time and are well done. He is friendly and helpful to his fellow classmates and does a great job participating both in the classroom and online. The school appreciates his efforts to stay engaged in learning, whether he’s attending virtually or in a hybrid setting. He works hard, follows along in class, and advocates for himself when he needs something. Jack works well with other students and is responsible for his preparation for class.

Grace Mossad understands material quickly and creates exemplary projects. She is personable, attentive and makes each group she is part of better. Grace was consistent in PLTW and her positive attitude and caring nature made the class a fun place to be. She did her best and was consistent for the entire quarter. She is a positive force in school and inspires others to explore and be curious. Grace is a leader in the classroom and pays attention to the details. She shows strong leadership in the choir program where she understands her part quickly and jumps in to help other students with theirs. She has a great work ethic that is exemplified by her quality work. Grace is hardworking, positive and helpful to peers and adults alike.

The morning announcements would not be as great as they are without Charlie Pollock. He is responsible, hardworking and dependable. He brings creative ideas to class and confidently shares them with peers in a high-pressure setting. Charlie gives his best effort every day in algebra and contributes to class discussions. He is polite, respectful and kind and an overall pleasure to have in class. He arrives ready to learn and exudes a positive attitude to those around him. Charlie is an outstanding vice president in the Student Council and interacts well with staff and peers. He is conscientious in his schoolwork and activities outside the classroom and is an overall exemplary leader.