Welcome to the 2024-25 school year at Chagrin Falls Schools...
District Welcomes New Staff
Welcome to the 2024-25 school year at Chagrin Falls Schools. The district is thrilled to introduce its newest team members who will be joining its educational community. These talented individuals bring fresh perspectives, diverse experiences and a shared commitment to excellence in education.
District: Gregg Dickson, bus driver; Corey Hoynacke, principal of instruction, central office; and Kathy Mack, gifted instruction specialist, central office.
Gurney Elementary: Larissa Balachick, third-grade teacher; Stephanie Casper, intervention specialist; Paelyn Benz, preschool specialized student support aide; Rachel Jackman, kindergarten teacher; Samantha Koller, substitute teacher; Andrea Barch, aide; Katie Chapman, specialized student support aide; Shelby Goldstein, educational aide; Kali (Kaylee) Waddell, building aide; Hallie Wagner, specialized student support aide; Leia Bromfield, educational aide; and Kendyl Switzer, specialized student support aide.
Chagrin Falls Intermediate School: Megan Campbell, fourth-grade math, science, social studies teacher; Lisa Jackson, Gurney and CFIS school psychologist; and Ella Gartner, fifth-grade ELA teacher.
Chagrin Falls Middle School/High School: Nate Bachofsky, CFMS/CFHS choir director; Katie Murray, CFMS specialized student support aide; Valerie Yarmesch, CFHS computer science teacher; Emily Morgan, CFHS substitute teacher; Matthew Markusic, CFHS substitute teacher; Brittany Sorn, CFHS and Gurney speech language pathologist; and Nick Taddeo, CFHS health and physical education teacher.
Teacher of the Year
Chagrin Falls Schools announced that Kathleen Aranavage has been named the district’s Teacher of the Year for 2024. The announcement was made during the district’s annual convocation staff meeting on Aug. 15.
Aranavage, a Spanish teacher at Chagrin Falls Middle School, was recognized for her exceptional dedication, innovative teaching methods, and profound impact on students and colleagues alike. Known for her passion and commitment to excellence, Aranavage has distinguished herself through her meticulously crafted lessons and her ability to extend learning opportunities beyond the classroom walls.
Colleagues praised Aranavage’s teaching style, comparing her lessons to a musician performing their own composition or an artist expressing emotions through art. Her use of technology, including intercambios and Skype partnerships, has created engaging platforms for students to communicate globally, enhancing their understanding of different languages, norms, and ideas.
Beyond her classroom duties, Aranavage is celebrated for inspiring students to engage in volunteer work and service projects, fostering a more compassionate and inclusive worldview. She also plays a crucial role in developing student leadership skills through her work with the student council.
Aranavage’s influence extends to her fellow educators as well. She is recognized as a mentor to new teachers and a valuable collaborator on school improvement initiatives. Her leadership of the eighth-grade team has consistently led to excellent outcomes.
“Kathleen is not just an outstanding educator, but also an invaluable colleague,” said Principal Laila Discenza. “Her perfect transitions, questioning techniques, authentic activities, and aligned assessments serve as a model for both new and experienced teachers.”
Outside of her teaching duties, Aranavage is known for her competitive spirit, having won ribbons in the school’s “Souper Bowl” competition and leading her team to victory in a Wii bowling tournament.
As the Chagrin Falls Schools Teacher of the Year for 2024, Kathleen Aranavage embodies the district’s commitment to excellence in education. Her dedication, innovation and positive influence continue to shape the lives of students and inspire her colleagues.
“We are thrilled to honor Kathleen as Teacher of the Year,” said Superintendent Jennifer Penczarski. “Kathleen is a true cornerstone of Chagrin Falls Schools, whose unwavering dedication and leadership embody our vision to inspire all to grow and thrive. Her passion for teaching and commitment to her students resonate throughout our entire community. We are incredibly grateful for the lasting impact she makes on our students, staff, and families every single day.”
The Chagrin Falls Schools’ community congratulates Kathleen Aranavage on this well-deserved recognition and expresses gratitude for her outstanding contributions to the district.
Staff Member of the Year
At Chagrin Falls Schools’ Convocation Back-to-School staff meeting on Aug. 15, the district announced that Stacey Davis has been named the district’s Staff Member of the Year for 2024. Davis, a dedicated school bus driver, was recognized for her exceptional service, positive attitude and profound impact on students and colleagues alike.
Transportation Supervisor Mike Morgan shared glowing praise for Davis, describing her as uplifting, authentic, resilient, and inspirational. “Stacey greets each day with enthusiasm and optimism, regardless of circumstances,” Morgan noted. “She has a way of making everyone feel happy in her presence and builds deep trust with students, parents and coworkers.”
Colleagues highlighted Davis’s contagious positivity, unwavering commitment to excellence, and ability to take on challenges with assurance and calmness. One coworker remarked, “Her consistent awesomeness lifts the spirits of everyone around her while remaining humble and modest.”
Davis is often the first friendly face students see in the morning, setting a positive tone for their school day. Her empathy, understanding and genuine concern for others’ well-being have not gone unnoticed.
“Stacey is the embodiment of dedication and humility, and her caring, supportive nature touches the lives of our students, families and entire school community every day,” said Superintendent Penczarski. “She truly exemplifies our vision to inspire all to grow and thrive. We are deeply grateful for the positive impact she makes through her service.”
Known for her sense of humor, Davis often brightens her colleagues’ days with playful jokes and greetings. Her dedication extends beyond her official duties, as she consistently goes above and beyond to support her fellow employees both in and outside of work.
“It isn’t often you meet someone of her high caliber of character,” another coworker shared. “When you do, you never forget them, and they become an inspiration for how to live your own life every day.”
The Chagrin Falls Schools community congratulates Stacey Davis on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for her outstanding contributions to the district.
