In Nicole Martorello's eighth-grade classroom at Chagrin Falls Middle School, linear equations met their match in an exciting game of Lucky Duck Pond...
Lucky Duck Pond Challenge
In Nicole Martorello’s eighth-grade classroom at Chagrin Falls Middle School, linear equations met their match in an exciting game of Lucky Duck Pond. Students dove into learning with enthusiasm as they tackled rotating review slides filled with challenging math problems.
The innovative review session, designed by Nicole Martorello and instructional coach Matt Volk, transformed traditional test preparation into an engaging adventure. Each correct answer earned students a chance to select a rubber duck from the “pond,” with prizes ranging from colorful lollipops to tasty LifeSavers and decorative stickers.
But the real magic happened during the problem-solving process. As students worked through equations, teachers moved throughout the classroom, providing one-on-one guidance and ensuring everyone grasped the concepts. The rotating slide format kept the pace lively and minds engaged.
“When students are having fun, they’re more willing to take risks and tackle challenging problems,” explains Volk. “The Lucky Duck Pond turned what could have been a stressful review session into a memorable learning experience.”
Martorello adds, “The smiles on their faces were worth every minute of preparation. But more importantly, the students were actively participating and helping each other understand the material. That’s what learning is all about!”
With the success of the Lucky Duck Pond review, it’s clear that at Chagrin Falls Middle School, innovative teaching methods are making waves in mathematics education.
Garden Club Plants 100 Daffodil Bulbs
The Gurney Elementary Garden Club at Chagrin Falls Schools, led by Mrs. Sandra Goodin and Mrs. Ann Kehrier, planted 100 daffodil bulbs the week of Nov. 11, thanks to a generous PTO grant. This spring, these bulbs will bloom into beautiful daffodils, which garden club members will turn into bouquets for the Gurney Service Learning Club to deliver to seniors at Hamlet. Along the way, Chagrin students are learning about patience, teamwork and the life cycle of plants—turning the project into a meaningful lesson in both science and kindness.
Rotary Student of the Month
The Chagrin Valley Rotary Club has recognized Cam Mateyo as its Student of the Month for November, highlighting his exceptional blend of athletic success, academic excellence and community service commitment.
Mateyo, a senior at Chagrin Falls High School, has made waves both in and out of the pool, earning six All-Ohio swimming awards and clinching six Chagrin Valley Conference titles. His aquatic achievements extend to two Speedo Sectional awards, while maintaining his status as a four-time letter winner for the school’s swim team.
In the classroom, Mateyo’s academic record is equally impressive. An AP Scholar with Distinction, he has tackled 10 Advanced Placement courses, including AP Physics 2, AP Calculus BC, AP English Literature, AP Spanish, and AP Statistics. His consistent academic performance has earned him a place on the High Honor Roll.
Beyond academics and athletics, Mateyo demonstrates a diverse range of interests and commitments. As a member of Link Crew, he helps guide underclassmen through their high school transition. His unique combination of activities includes archery training and serving as a writing intern. A talented musician, he also finds time to play guitar.
Mateyo’s work experience showcases his responsibility and leadership skills. He has served his community as a lifeguard and swim instructor, sharing his aquatic expertise with others, while also working as a caddie.
His commitment to service is evident through his volunteer work with Empower Sports, an organization that provides sporting opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, Mateyo serves on the Hearts for Guatemala Student Board, demonstrating his engagement with international humanitarian causes.
Looking ahead, Mateyo plans to pursue engineering while minoring in entrepreneurship, a path that will utilize both his analytical skills and creative thinking abilities.
“Cam’s balance of academic excellence, athletic achievement, and community service embodies the Rotary’s principles of leadership and service above self,” said Principal Amanda Rassi.
Senior Honored as One of Crain’s Cleveland’s “5 Under 18”
Chagrin Falls High School’s senior Cooper Bottcher has been selected as one of Crain’s Cleveland’s “5 Under 18” – a prestigious feature showcasing five exceptional students making an impact in Northeast Ohio.
Bottcher was nominated for the recognition by his business teacher, John Bakalar, and was chosen from a competitive pool of applicants across the region. The “5 Under 18” feature, presented in partnership with Junior Achievement, spotlights the next wave of young talent demonstrating remarkable leadership and innovation.
As the captain of the soccer team and co-president of the Business Professionals of America club, Bottcher has already established himself as a driven and multifaceted student leader. But his accomplishments stretch far beyond the classroom and extracurriculars – he also owns and operates his own landscaping company, C.O. Landscaping.
“Cooper is the embodiment of what it means to be a well-rounded, engaged, and passionate student,” said Bakalar. “His ability to balance academics, athletics, community involvement, and entrepreneurship is truly inspiring, and I’m thrilled to see him receive this well-deserved recognition.”
On October 31, Bottcher joined the four other “5 Under 18” honorees for a special luncheon at Crain’s Cleveland’s downtown offices. There, the students had the opportunity to meet and network with professionals recently recognized on the publication’s “40 Under 40” list, gaining valuable insights and advice about future career paths.
“It was an incredible experience to connect with the ‘Crain’s 40 Under 40’ honorees and learn from their success stories,” said Bottcher. “I’m humbled to be included in this group of talented students, and I’m excited to see how this recognition might open new doors for me as I prepare for the next chapter.”
Chagrin Falls High School Principal Amanda Rassi commended Bottcher’s achievements, stating, “Cooper’s drive, creativity, and commitment to making a positive impact in his community are truly admirable. We are honored to have him representing Chagrin Falls High School, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this exceptional young leader.”
The “5 Under 18” feature, highlighting Cooper Bottcher and his fellow honorees, will be published in the Nov. 18th edition of “Crain’s Cleveland Business.”
