On March 6, the Northeast Region of the Ohio Middle Level Association continued the tradition of hosting a Breakfast of Champions in Independence to honor some of the finest students for their character, leadership, scholarship and service...
Breakfast of Champions
On March 6, the Northeast Region of the Ohio Middle Level Association continued the tradition of hosting a Breakfast of Champions in Independence to honor some of the finest students for their character, leadership, scholarship and service. They also inspire others to grow and thrive through their connection, creation, and acceptance of challenges.
Two students from Chagrin Falls Middle School (CFMS) were recognized –eighth-grader Audrey Bricker and seventh-grader Dominic Giordano. Each student attended with their parents and the teacher-advocate, Kathleen Aranavage.
Giordano demonstrates strength of character in the way that he treats his peers with kindness and respect. Dominic is a hard-working student-athlete who gives 100% in the classroom and on the athletic mat. He is an excellent sportsman and leader on the wrestling team. He always competes to the best of his ability and shows respect for teammates, opponents, coaches and officials. Dom puts forth effort in everything he does. He is a creative problem solver and a role model for his peers participating in class, supporting others, and keeping a positive attitude. As a photojournalist, Dom thrives. He knows how to plan and capture extraordinary photographs. Further, his communication skills and ability to follow through are unmatched. Dominic earns high marks and has been a Student of the Month. Staff and students are grateful for his eagerness to learn and commitment to a positive school culture.
Bricker demonstrates strength of character in the way that she treats her peers with kindness and respect. She is respected for her integrity, always choosing to do what’s right, even when no one is watching. Audrey is one of the most creative videographers CFMS has seen. She takes on tough projects and always produces high quality work, even when working under strict deadlines. Audrey is a very bright and talented young problem solver. She is creative in her approach and always willing to try new things. She works well independently and as part of a team. Audrey will be a great engineer someday if she chooses that path. Audrey’s attention to detail is remarkable in both her reading and writing skills. She also articulates herself with great poise. Audrey works diligently on every assignment and project. Audrey is helpful to all, a Student of the Month, and Tiger Trailblazer. You will never find a day that Audrey is not wearing her big smile. She is truly respected by staff and peers alike and is admired for her extra work in world language.
New Principal Named
At a special board of education meeting held on April 7 at 8:30 a.m., the Chagrin Falls Exempted Village School District officially approved the hiring of Patrick Carpenter as the next principal of Gurney Elementary School.
Mr. Carpenter brings with him more than a decade of experience in elementary education, including six years of service as principal of Noble Elementary School in the Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District. His leadership experience also includes working as a ReadOhio Literacy Coach with the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, where he supported schools statewide in implementing evidence-based reading instruction.
Mr. Carpenter began his career in Boston, Mass., teaching second grade while completing postgraduate studies at Boston College. Upon returning to Northeast Ohio, he continued his educational work as a third-grade teacher and building reading specialist in Cleveland Heights-University Heights, further deepening his dedication to literacy and student success.
“Patrick Carpenter’s deep belief in child-centered learning and literacy-rich environments aligns beautifully with the values of Gurney Elementary and the Chagrin Falls Schools,” said Superintendent Jennifer Penczarski. “We are excited to welcome him to our team and confident that his leadership will continue to strengthen the student experience at Gurney.”
Mr. Carpenter shared his enthusiasm for the role, stating, “It is a privilege to join the Gurney community and help carry forward its strong traditions. I look forward to partnering with students, staff, families and the greater community to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences for all children.”
Mr. Carpenter holds a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Boston College, an Administrative Licensure from Cleveland State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from John Carroll University.
He will officially begin his tenure as Gurney Elementary principal Aug. 1.
