In a spirited display of student engagement and extracurricular diversity, Chagrin Falls Intermediate School (CFIS) took center stage at the Sept. 18 Board of Education regular meeting...
Club Showcase at BOE Meeting
In a spirited display of student engagement and extracurricular diversity, Chagrin Falls Intermediate School (CFIS) took center stage at the Sept. 18 Board of Education regular meeting. Principal Curtis Howell led a presentation that put the spotlight squarely on the school’s flourishing club activities, with students themselves stepping up to the microphone to share their experiences.
The evening kicked off with Howell expressing gratitude to families for their support and acknowledging the dedication of teachers who run the various clubs. “We couldn’t run clubs without our staff,” Howell emphasized, setting the tone for a night of appreciation and showcase.
From artistic pursuits to community service, the presentation painted a vivid picture of life beyond the classroom at CFIS. Students from 10 different clubs, including the newly formed Club Create, took turns describing their activities and the impact these programs have had on their school experience.
The Art Club representatives spoke of taking creative risks and decorating school halls, while the CFIS Newspaper team highlighted their thrice-yearly digital publications. Social-emotional learning took center stage with Club Connect Junior, focusing on skills like emotional regulation and conflict resolution.
Community engagement shone through with PAWS (People Always Willing to Serve), where students organize charity collections and participate in service projects. The presentation also featured academically enriching activities like Rocket Club, complete with launches, and Running Club, which trains students for 5K races.
Performing arts were well-represented by the Select Choir and Tiger Beats, showcasing the school’s commitment to musical education and community building through song. The Student Council rounded out the presentations, emphasizing their role in amplifying student voices and fostering school spirit.
Each student presentation was accompanied by photos from previous years, offering a visual journey through the clubs’ activities and achievements.
Students that presented included: Quentin Howell, Maria Bell, Rachel Shaffer, Tate Canter, Jack Thompson, Josie Bird, Tommy Muir, Winnie Fuller, Savannah Thather, Jade Borger and Leona Bright.
This comprehensive overview not only highlighted the diverse interests of CFIS students but also underscored the school’s commitment to providing well-rounded educational experiences. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that Chagrin Falls Intermediate School is nurturing not just academic growth, but also creativity, leadership, and community involvement in its young learners.
CFMS Named Blue Ribbon School
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona today designated Chagrin Falls Middle School as one of the 356 schools in the nation to be named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School. This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.
The school shared this exciting announcement with teachers, staff members and students on the afternoon of Sept. 23. The staff enjoyed a celebratory lunch and everyone received blue ribbon cupcakes. The middle school entrance has been decorated with blue lights, bows and pinwheels. A banner was hung while a blue confetti cannon burst and the alumni bell rang.
“This is an incredible honor for Chagrin Falls Middle School,” said Superintendent Jennifer Penczarski. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teachers, staff, administrators, students, and families. It reflects our commitment to the goals outlined in our Strategic Plan: promoting high-quality learning experiences and inspiring all to grow and thrive.”
“The National Blue Ribbon Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”
The 2024 National Blue Ribbon reflects the full diversity of American education and serves students from all backgrounds. While awardees represent a wide array of schools, they share common traits. National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success.
“Chagrin Falls Middle School is such a special place where we strive to build instructional connections, systems and meaningful, positive relationships,” said Principal Laila Discenza. “Our high achievement roots in the foundation of belonging, value and collaboration in order for students to be most likely to succeed. I am beyond proud and excited that we have been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School as this prestigious honor reflects the hard work, dedication, and excellence that define us.”
On Sept. 23, the school entrance was decorated in blue for the announcement and all students and staff celebrated with blue cookies. On Sept. 27, the seventh- and eighth-graders, along with the current ninth- and 10th-graders, plan to wear blue and capture this momentous occasion with a picture at Harris Stadium, in addition to ringing the victory bell.
Chagrin Falls Middle School also was honored with this recognition in 2010. This year, of the 353 schools recognized nationally, 14 were from Ohio. Just as impressive, only 43 middle schools across the nation earned the distinction this year.
All 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools will be honored at a national awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. Nov. 7-8. The school looks forward to raising the Blue Ribbon flag they will receive at the ceremony when they return and plan to incorporate a week of activities chosen by students, concluding with a school dance.
“We are also collaborating with the Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop to make a blue popcorn named CFMS National Blue Ribbon for the community to share in this achievement,” said Discenza.
The Department recognizes all schools based on student performance data including assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories:
Exemplary High Performing Schools: These schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools: These schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body.
Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, curriculum, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.
“The National Blue Ribbon Award is a testament to the innovative teaching methods and dedication to student growth that Chagrin Falls Middle School teachers, staff, students, and families embrace,” said President Lori Bendall, Chagrin Falls Board of Education. “This recognition is well-deserved and a moment for our entire Chagrin Falls community to celebrate.”
