Chagrin Falls Schools' kindergarten registration for the 2025-26 school year is underway...
Kindergarten Registration
Chagrin Falls Schools’ kindergarten registration for the 2025-26 school year is underway. Families should register by May 9 to secure a spot in the full-day kindergarten program. Visit chagrinschools.org/kindergarten for details and to begin the registration process.
Living Wax Museum
The cafeteria of Chagrin Falls Intermediate School transformed into a time machine on Feb. 7 as fourth graders brought historical figures to life in their first annual Living Wax Museum exhibition, marking a successful implementation of the school’s new English language arts curriculum.
Along with implementing a new program, teachers have also centered their instruction more towards personalized learning.
Principal Curtis Howell stated, “The fourth-grade team at the Intermediate School has continually taken on the idea of personalizing student learning with an excited, positive mindset. Their teamwork and collaboration has created a model for other teams and grade levels and their innovative approach exemplifies the district’s new strategic plan in action.”
The interactive museum, a first-time initiative stemming from the curriculum pilot program that fourth graders have been testing since fall, showcased students as prominent problem-solvers throughout history. At the press of a button, these young historians animated their characters, sharing compelling stories of innovation and impact.
“This new curriculum gave us an opportunity to try something different,” said Heather Reeder, English language arts teacher. “When we approached Mr. Howell with this idea, he immediately gave us the green light and told us to go for it. We loved the idea because students were not just memorizing facts; they were digging deep, researching, writing and truly connecting with the figures they chose. Museum Day was electric. Students were absolutely buzzing with excitement. We had a fantastic turn out, and we’re so grateful for the parents’ partnership in making this project such a success.”
Parents and visitors wandered through rows of “statues,” each representing a notable problem-solver from history. Highlights included Marie Curie explaining radioactivity with glowing test tubes, George Washington Carver showcasing peanut products, and Jane Goodall surrounded by plush chimpanzees. Each student, dressed as their character, created detailed tri-fold displays featuring their research and fielded questions from parents and visitors.
The event marked the culmination of a comprehensive biography research unit. Students developed crucial skills in research, writing, and public speaking while discovering how individuals can create positive change.
“Researching, writing an essay, and presenting information about an important historical figure allows students to develop critical thinking and analytical skills by evaluating sources and forming their own interpretations, said teacher Melinda Sawicki. “This deepened their understanding of history and its impact on the present, while also improving research, writing, and public speaking abilities. An additional hope is that exploring the life and contributions of a significant individual can inspire students into leadership, perseverance and the potential for positive change.”
“It was amazing to see how deeply the students connected with their historical figures,” said teacher Katie Adick. “This kind of immersive learning creates lasting impressions and demonstrates the potential of our new curriculum approach.”
BPA Region 18 Awards
Chagrin Falls High School’s Business Professionals of America (BPA) chapter delivered an impressive performance at the Region 18 Awards held on Jan. 31, at Valley Forge High School. Seventeen students competed in both tested and judged events, with eight advancing to the state competition on March 10 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
Several students earned top honors in their respective categories. First-place winners included Charlie Bazzone (Digital Marketing Concepts), Zach Flaiz (Health Research Presentation), Finn Johnson (Financial Math and Analysis Concepts), Durham Freese (Extemporaneous Speech), Andrew Strawn (Entrepreneurship) and Renner Matta (Personal Financial Management). The Small Business Management Team, consisting of Xander Burnight, Jack Medhurst, Tommy Mooney and Charlie Pollock, also secured a first-place finish.
Second-place finishes went to Anna Michalek, Darcy Osborn and Eloise Pulte (Global Marketing Team), Claire Rubin (Health Research Presentation) and Eric Goyzman (Financial Math and Analysis Concepts). Cooper Bottcher placed third in Financial Math and Analysis Concepts, while Zach Flaiz earned third in Health Administration Procedures. Peter Mitchell rounded out the top performers with a fourth-place finish in Business Law and Ethics.
The following students qualified for the state competition: Zach Flaiz, Durham Freese, Andrew Strawn, Xander Burnight, Jack Medhurst, Tommy Mooney, Charlie Pollock and Renner Matta.
Business Professionals of America is the nation’s leading Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) for students pursuing careers in business management, information technology, finance, accounting, office administration, and other business-related fields. Students compete in a variety of events that test their knowledge and skills, preparing them for future success in the business world.
Rotary Student of Month
Magnolia Howard, a senior specializing in licensed practical nursing at Chagrin Falls High School, has been selected as the Chagrin Valley Rotary Club’s February 2025 Student of the Month. Howard currently completes LPN clinicals at Lake West Hospital and Mentor Ridge nursing home, where she administers medications and provides direct patient care.
Howard’s academic achievements include membership in the National Technical Honor Society and being named Tiger of the Semester in 2021. Her artistic talents earned her the Golden Art Reward in 10th grade, complemented by orchestra awards in both ninth and 10th grade for her accomplishments as a cellist.
Her work experience spans healthcare and food service, currently serving residents at Hamlet retirement home in Chagrin Falls. Previously, she demonstrated leadership as Worker of the Month at Tiger Perks, the school’s cafe. Her community service includes volunteering at the South Russell Fall Festival and Town Hall Christmas gathering.
Howard’s career trajectory is clearly defined: she plans to attend Tri-C for an associate’s degree in sonography, specializing in cardiac care. She intends to leverage her LPN license to fund her education while considering additional certifications in registered nursing or sterile technique for operating room work.
“Maggie, you inspire us all with your drive, your kindness, and your compassion. On behalf of Chagrin Falls High School, I want to congratulate you on this well-deserved recognition. We are incredibly proud of you, and we know that your future is bright,” said Principal Amanda Rassi.
The Chagrin Valley Rotary Club honors students who exemplify service and leadership qualities, inviting them to attend their monthly meetings to connect with local business and professional leaders.
