Chagrin Falls Intermediate School is proud to recognize its April Tigers of the Month for demonstrating this month’s theme: “The Time Is Now.”...
CFIS Celebrates April Tigers of the Month
Chagrin Falls Intermediate School is proud to recognize its April Tigers of the Month for demonstrating this month’s theme: “The Time Is Now.”
These students have shown the ability to embrace every moment, get in the zone and act with purpose throughout the school day and within the CFIS community.
The April Tigers of the Month are Lincoln Hartup, Fiona Furlong, Amelia Hanlon, Maddy Benzel, Isabel Olszewski, Yara Hurd, Eileen McGroaty, Amelia Vanwagner, Emerson Schron, Allison Partridge, Tyler Novy, Max Tolan, Emmett May, Marko Sluder, Eddie Gonzales, Ella Henn, Morgan Livingston and Aidan Zelznick.
CFMS Recognizes April 2026 Students of the Month
Chagrin Falls Middle School is proud to recognize its April 2026 Students of the Month for demonstrating outstanding character, leadership and dedication both inside and outside the classroom.
The mission of the Chagrin Falls Middle School Students of the Month program is to acknowledge and reward students for exemplary performance. Students selected embody the school’s Tiger Techniques: Think, Integrity, Grit, Effort and Responsibility. Each month, seventh- and eighth-grade teams collaborate to choose a male and female Tiger of the Month, and students receive tiger water bottles from the PTO.
The April 2026 Students of the Month are:
Representing eighth grade, Freya Hilbers is an accomplished cellist in the orchestra who stands out not only for her musical achievements but also for her leadership, positive attitude and commitment to excellence. She takes on challenges willingly, cares deeply about her learning and sets a good example for her peers by always doing the right thing. Ryan Babst is a confident student who works hard to get the most out of his education. He participates actively in class discussions, works well in a group and has done a strong job balancing schoolwork with extracurricular activities such as basketball, making him a great role model for his peers.
Representing seventh grade, Lilah Pace is a kindhearted and dedicated student who consistently strives to do her best in all she undertakes. She collaborates willingly and with genuine friendliness, and her thoughtful analysis and keen observational skills make her a strong problem solver. Everett Brugger is a polite and hardworking young man who demonstrates a strong commitment to learning in all that he does. He is consistently inclusive of his peers, puts forth full effort in every assignment and serves as a quiet leader, setting a strong example through his behavior, collaboration and willingness to support others.
Chagrin Valley Rotary Club’s Today’s Teacher Award
Two dedicated educators from Chagrin Falls Schools have been recognized with the 2026 Chagrin Valley Rotary Today’s Teacher Award. Middle School teacher Brian Johnson received the honor, while Intermediate School teacher Melinda Sawicki was named runner-up.
The Today’s Teacher Award, now celebrating its 20th year, recognizes outstanding teachers across local school districts who exemplify leadership, integrity, service and dedication to students. This year’s focus centered on educators at the intermediate and middle school levels.
Brian Johnson, a 19-year veteran of Chagrin Falls Middle School, earned the award for his diverse roles and commitment to service. Beyond his duties as a student support specialist and multi-sport coach, Johnson is the co-founder of the school’s 7th Grade Cardboard Regatta. This interdisciplinary STEM and service learning project has raised more than $143,000 in the past six years to fund the construction of seven freshwater wells in South Sudan. The initiative also earned the national Iron Giraffe Award for raising the most funds in the United States.
Melinda Sawicki, a fourth-grade teacher, was celebrated as runner-up for her 20-year career dedicated to literacy instruction and educator mentorship. Her nominators emphasized her deeply human approach, noting that she goes out of her way to ensure each student feels known, valued and supported.
Recipients of the Today’s Teacher Award are presented with a commemorative plaque, recognized with a display at the Board of Education office and receive a monetary award intended to support classroom expenses and professional development.
