Consolidation Plan

This summer will be like no other. In the district’s growth years in the sixties and seventies, schools were built and prepared for students during the summer. In the eighties and nineties, we closed buildings or changed the way we use facilities.

This summer we will embark on a bold consolidation plan. Construction at Parma High School and Valley Forge High School will soon be in full swing. By the opening of school in late August, new computer and technology classrooms will be ready for students in both of these buildings. At the same time, space in these buildings will be renovated to house the administration offices at Parma High, and the maintenance department at Valley Forge. The renovation does not stop at these buildings. We will soon be installing a new telephone system that will replace our current outdated thirty-year old system. The new system will allow for better communications with parents and the public, and will improve our ability to communicate between buildings.

It does not matter what school or cluster you work in, have students in, or live in---these moves will impact you. The consolidation plan has three main purposes:

1. Use available space in existing buildings to the fullest. This helps to ensure that our three high school clusters stay in tact, and that our communities continue to enjoy neighborhood schools.

2. Save dollars now and in the future. Once we move out of the administration building on Ridge Road and the Arlington Learning Center, we will immediately begin saving on utilities and maintenance. Other savings will incur as the buildings are leased or sold.

3. Begin upgrading technology with a new telephone system to improve the operation of the district as well as upgraded computer equipment and facilities for students.

By the end of the next school year, the Parma City School District will have a new look. We will operate fewer buildings, we will have upgraded our technology and we will be saving dollars.

Even as we begin construction, we are fully aware that facilities only matter when we have excellent teachers and support staff, great students and parents and a community that supports our efforts. I believe we have all of these and I am very grateful to all of you for helping us move the district forward.

Please accept my best wishes for a wonderful and restful summer recess.

May is busy for ALP TOO students

As the school year winds down, middle school ALP TOO students have had a busy month. They attended a performance of "Gold Rush" at Playhouse Square depicting the conflicts of interest in a family with a teenage slave and the hopes and dreams of all involved.

A presentation at the Rock and Roll Hall of fame illuminated the importance of both the arranger in the production of songs and how classically trained musicians are crucial to "pop" and other forms of music. We’ll all be listening to music with a different ear now.

Seventh grade ALP TOO students had the opportunity to visit with sixth grade ALP elementary students at Parma Senior High for an enlightening lunch. The seventh graders did their best to impart their wisdom on the upcoming navigation of middle school, including ALP TOO, to the sixth graders.

Our last seminar day for the year was a college visit to Baldwin-Wallace. Admissions officer Carl Mazone spoke to the importance of rigor in coursework during middle and high school years. He also emphasized writing skills, extracurricular activities, and service to the community. B-W college students then took groups of ALP TOO students on a campus tour. We concluded our trip with lunch at the college before returning to school.

Elementary ALP activities

The third and fourth graders completed a critical thinking unit covering various aspects of the Old West. They studied groups of people who moved west and their reasons for moving, heroes and villains of the west, and the Gold Rush. As a culminating activity, they participated in an Oregon Trail simulation in State Road Park.

The fifth and sixth graders studied a critical thinking unit on Lake Erie's relationship with northern Ohio and the Lake Erie islands, tourism of the area, and the history of the area. The culminating activity of this unit was a fun-filled, educational field trip to South Bass Island. Both groups had a memorable ending to their ALP year.

Summer Beach Party

Thanks to everyone who attended and worked at the Summer Beach Party on Tuesday, May 30 at the Parma High cafeteria.  It was a great opportunity to share with parents and students the many ways they can incorporate education into their summer vacation.  The event featured demonstrations, games, stories and a picnic dinner. 

Have a great summer and we'll see you in the fall!

FREE SUMMER ESOL CLASSES - ENGLISH For Speakers of Other Languages

July 10 - August 18, 2006

CLASS INFORMATION

Classes are offered at two locations this summer:

- Monday & Thursday afternoons 12:00-2:00PM at the Parma Regional Library 7335 Ridge Road

- Tuesday & Thursday evenings 7:00-9:00PM at Divinity Lutheran Church 11877 Blossom Ave.

ORIENTATION / REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Students must attend the Orientation/Registration Session at a site below before they may begin attending classes.

Orientation/Registration Sessions are held at: Parma Regional Library July 10, 2006 at 12:00 Noon and at Valley Forge High School July 11, 2006 at 7:00PM

FREE SUMMER GED CLASSES

July 10 - August 18, 2006

CLASS INFORMATION

Classes are offered at four summer locations: Monday & Thursday mornings 9:30-11:30AM at the Parma Regional Library 7335 Ridge Road

Tuesday & Wednesday afternoons 2:30-4:30PM at Remington College 14445 Broadway Road

Tuesday & Thursday afternoons 1:00-3:00PM total Technical Institute 8720 Brookpark Road

Tuesday & Thursday evenings 7:00-9:00PM (July-Aug only) at Divinity Lutheran Church 11877 Blossom Avenue

ORIENTATION/REGISTRATION INFORMATION:

Students must attend an Orientation/Registration Session at one of the following locations before attending classes:

Parma Regional Library on July 10 at 9:30AM, 7335 Ridge Road Parma, OH 44129

Remington College-Cleve on July 11 at 2:00PM, 14445 Broadway Avenue Maple Hts, OH 44125

Total Technical Institute on July 11 at 1:00PM, 8720 Brookpark Road Brooklyn, OH 44129

Valley Forge High School on July 11 at 7:00PM, 9999 Independence Blvd. Parma Hts, OH 44130

Dr. Zatik reviews three significant events which recently took place that directly impacted our students and the community:

On Friday, May 5, the "Heroes in the Making" program took place at Parma High. This was an opportunity to recognize 78 of our students as well as seven adults from the community for displaying qualities that make them role models and heroes to those in their school, church, community or country. It was a very rewarding experience for me and I trust it was for everyone who attended. Thank you to the families of all of our student and adult heroes for their support and to each of the staff members, both classified and certified, who contributed to making this event a memorable one. Thank you also to district graduates Brian and Joe from WMVX Mix 106.5 FM and their band, the Endorsements, for doing a marvelous job of hosting the show.

Additional information and photos of the event are available under the "District News" header which can be found alphabetically below.

The Parma Council of PTAs, as always, has shown tremendous support for our district this year, as evidenced by the turnout at the statewide PTA convention in late April and the scholarship dinner in May. Congratulations to former Parma Council President Sandy Nekoloff for her well-deserved installation as Ohio PTA President and to all of our incoming and outgoing officers. Your work is truly appreciated.

Finally, the initial phase of the district’s television programming on Cox Communications Channel 45 began Wednesday, May 3. We currently have four time slots; 9:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m., each Monday through Friday in which we will be showing various types of information as we test our signals and processes. The PACT Network is a collaborative involving the cities of Parma, Parma Heights and Seven Hills, Parma Community General Hospital, the Cuyahoga County Public Library and Tri-C Western Campus. In the coming months, look for programming produced by the Radio-TV Production class, which is available to juniors and seniors and is taught by Mr. David Droes at Normandy.

Culinary Arts Awards

On May 17 and 18, the students from the Culinary Arts program competed in the Ohio Culinary Arts Invitational Tournament.  The five-member team earned 9 medals and a total of $12,000 in scholarship money.

Chris Guthrie - Gold medal in both Individual and Team competition and $6,000 in scholarship money.

Tom Hemerka - Silver medal in Individual

Ed Kmiecik - Bronze medal in Individual

Paul Ondo - Bronze medal in both Individual and Team and $2,000 in scholarship money.

Justin Snyder - Bronze medal in Individual, Silver medal in Team and $4,000 in scholarship money.

Congratulations to these students for their outstanding achievements!

The Parma City Schools has sponsored tuition-based childcare programs since 1983.  We care for children of working parents before school from 7:00 - 9:00 AM and after school until 6:00 PM in all elementary buildings.  We have three sites offering Kindergarten care from 11:45 AM  to 6:00 PM, and provide care for Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM in our Day Care Center housed in Normandy High School.

Our programs are licensed by the Ohio Department of Education and staffed by trained childcare providers.  Each program offers a variety of activities to support the healthy development of young children in an out-of-school environment. 

For additional information and tuition rates, please visit our websites:

www.parmacityschools.org/daycare

www.parmacityschools.org/edc

Back the Schools Committee Golf Outing

Please join us on Wednesday, June 21 at Ridgewood Golf Course for the 4th Annual Back the Schools Committee Golf Outing.  Check-in time starts at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start at 9 a.m.  Cost is $100 per person which includes your cart, golf, refreshments, breakfast, lunch and an Outback Steakhouse dinner at around 4:30 p.m. Tickets for the steak dinner only are available for $25.

Proceeds from this event will be used to support district activities and provide funding for school ballot issues such as the May 2005 levy campaign to which Back the Schools contributed over $100,000.  Back the Schools has served the district for nearly 40 years and needs your help to continue to keep our schools strong and financially stable.

Tickets and event details are available by calling co-chairs Bruce Basalla at 440-884-2282, Ron Durkin at 216-524-1024 or Kevin Kelley at 440-667-7305.  Payments may be mailed to:

The Back the Schools Committee of the Parma City School District c/o Bruce Basalla, 2710 Park Drive, Parma, OH 44134.

Thank you for your support!

Parma Area Chamber of Commerce Rib n Rock

The 16th Annual Rib n Rock will be held from June 8-11 at Parmatown Mall.  This event will feature national award-winning rib vendors and restaurants along with a variety of top-notch entertainment.  Times are 4-11 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 2-11 p.m. on Saturday and 1-11 p.m. on Sunday.

Other highlights include workshops, rides and games for kids, car shows on Saturday and Sunday, an MTV Veejay search, and a raffle sponsored by the Carpenters Union in which you could win a gazebo or shed for your backyard!

Tickets are available at the event and all proceeds benefit the Parma Area Chamber of Commerce scholarship fund.

Please join us for some great food and fun June 8-11 at Parmatown Mall!

City of Parma Band Concerts

Parma Mayor DePiero and the City of Parma's Recreation Department have an exciting season of Sunday night band concerts planned at Ridgewood Lake Park beginning on June 18 and running through September 3.  All concerts start at 6:30 p.m. with parking available across the street at Parmatown Mall.  Please bring your own lawn chair or blanket and enjoy some great music and fellowship with us!  More details are available by calling City Hall at 885-8000 or the Recreation Department at 885-8144.

Parma Senior Center Senior Showcase

On Friday, May 19, the Parma Senior Center held a dance contest as part of its two-day Senior Showcase.  Entertainment was provided by those amazing song and dance ladies called the Raisin Canes and a dance competition featuring some of the area's finest hoofers was held in the afternoon.  Dancers were judged on their skill in the Polka, Fox Trot, Rumba, Jitterbug and Waltz.  Judges were JoAnn Mason, Senior Center Director, Cheryl McIntosh from the Parma Area Chamber of Commerce and Kevin Brennan, Community Outreach Specialist from the Parma City School District.  The decisions were very difficult and the five winning couples truly earned their first-place finishes.

Pictured from left to right are: Jitterbug winners Sol Shack & Mary Resler, Fox Trot winners George Bodkin & Angel McGee, Waltz winners Karen Yocum & Paul Snyder, Polka winners Renee Black & Joe Cancillere and Rumba winners Tony & Pat Ehret.

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Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone who was involved in the Senior Showcase! 

ABLE Program is highest-rated in the state of Ohio

The Parma Adult Basic and Literacy Education (ABLE) Program has just been awarded a rating of EXEMPLARY by the Ohio Department of Education. In fact, Parma ABLE has received the highest rating of any of the 127 ABLE Programs in the state. This annual rating system by ODE evaluates the effectiveness of the ABLE Program based on the following performance measures:

• Student Achievement

- Student completion of the 12 Educational Functioning Levels

- Placement into post secondary education and training

- Obtainment of the GED

- Attainment of employment and retention of employment

- Achievement of family literacy goals

- Other performance measures (retention, enrollment, pre-test and post-test rates)

• Administrative Requirements

- compliance with state and federal standards

- compliance with grant requirements

Parma ABLE is very proud of this top notch rating! Over 1,000 adult students enter the program each year. This includes students who want to earn a GED, pass the US Citizenship Test, improve their English, and/or review basic skills. The many dedicated staff members and volunteer tutors who work in the Parma ABLE Program help these adults reach their goals. Congratulations to Program Coordinator Susan Sheehan and her staff on this outstanding accomplishment!

PEA honors Parma Police Detective

The Parma Education Association recently honored Parma Police Detective Tom Conner for his outstanding work as an advocate for safety in public education.  He was presented with a plaque and made an honorary member of the PEA.  Congratulations to Detective Conner for this honor and for his dedication to our children and our community. Pictured here are Parma Mayor DePiero, Detective Conner and PEA President Maureen Neville.

Heroes in the Making

A unique student recognition program called “Heroes in the Making” was held on May 5 at the Parma Senior High cafeteria.  78 students from pre-school through twelfth grade were honored for making positive contributions to their schools, churches, community and country.  Also on hand was a panel of seven adult heroes who were acknowledged for their history of outstanding work on behalf of others.

Two of the adult heroes shared a special bond.  U.S. Army Specialists Brian Regovich and Jonathan Rice served our country side by side as they both deployed to Iraq in January 2005.  After spending 12 months with the Bravo Company 612^th Engineer Battalion, they have formed a lasting friendship and are currently planning their futures.

Brian, a 2001 graduate of Parma High, and his wife recently purchased a home in Parma.  Brian is going to school to become a law enforcement officer.  Jonathan is attending the University of Cincinnati to become a doctor and lives with his wife in North Ridgeville.

The event was hosted by Brian and Joe from WMVX Mix 106.5 FM and featured their band, the Endorsements.  Students had a great time dancing and some even played with the band and sang along.  Dr. Zatik presented the two morning radio personalities, who are both graduates of the district, with the Superintendent’s School Bell Award in appreciation of their continued support of the Parma City School District.

In a heartfelt speech, Dr. Zatik thanked both the student and adult heroes for their ability to be “survivors, volunteers and leaders” as they act as role models and inspirations to their family, their peers and those they encounter every day.

Congratulations to this special group of students for showing the character and commitment to be considered “Heroes in the Making.”

Serve It Safe

In March of this year, 29 cafeteria staff members completed a ten hour evening training course called "Serve It Safe." Some of the topics covered in this course on safety and sanitation were: basic sanitation hazards in school food service, harmful microorganisms, potentially hazardous food, and the critical control points at each step in the flow of food preparation.

Among those recognized were:

Cheryl Negrey, Debra  Revock, Lynn Scott, Julianne M. Haas, Linda Krauss, Claudia Kay and Judith Holmes from Valley Forge

Donna Reynolds, Joanne Egyud, Shirley Kazimer and Ann Kriefall from Shiloh

Nafah Farraj, Carol Anderle, Gloria Dossa and Sheri Morchak from Hillside

Mia Kostandaras, Carol Soukup, Dorothy Dean, Vicki Reagle, Grace Pavia and Julie Kaiser from Greenbriar

Lisa Manzetti ‑ Pleasant Valley, Diane Martinez ‑ Pleasantview, Vickie Yates ‑ Pearl Road, Marilyn Ratusnik ‑ Renwood

and Pam Richards ‑ Ridge‑Brook.

Thanks to all of you for your dedication!

Have a safe summer and remember to eat your vegetables and to go outside and play!

Copy Center Details

The Copy Center will continue normal operations until Tuesday, June 6, 2005.

There will be no pick-ups on June 7 or June 8.  Final Copy Center deliveries

will be made on Wednesday, June 7.  The Copy Center will close for the

2005-2006 school year at the end of the day on Wednesday, June 7.

The Copy Center will open for the 2006-2007 school year on Monday, July 31,

2006.  Teachers may place Copy Center requests in the box at their building

or drop them off at the shop between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through

Thursday.  All Copy Center requests will be returned to the teacher's

school.  We are unable to store Copy Center requests at the shop for

pick-up.

Thank You!

The PTA would like to thank everyone who participated in the Geranium Sale for Scholarships.  This year's flowers were beautiful and all of the money certainly went toward a good cause.

Thank you also to those who assisted in making the Scholarship Award Dinner a great success.  Over 130 scholarships were awarded to a wonderful group of deserving students.

Please be sure to spread the word to any incoming kindergarten parents or new neighbors about their school's PTA.

See you next year! 

Student Registration

Incoming students for the 2006-07 school year must register with the Student Services office before August 23, the first day of classes.  The following items are necessary for registration:

1. Legal Birth Certificate

2. Immunization Records

3. Social Security Card or Number

4. Proof of Residency - in the event of divorce, a residential custody order is needed

5. IEP for Special Needs students

6. Green card or travel documents for foreign-born students

Please call our department at 885-8794 for more information.

Civil War Day

Dag Hammarskjold students, staff, and parent volunteers took part in a Civil War Day on May 12. The day was a culmination of the Civil War Week that was held to support the social studies curriculum in grades kindergarten though six. The day also supported many research-based best instructional practices as identified by Robert Marzano and others. The day involved presentations to students including soldier reenactments, a mercantile, fashion show, taffy pulling, string band, and a cannoner brigade. Students moved through presentations all day, and even though the weather was rainy and cold, everyone experienced a day to remember.

Volunteer Recognition

On May 19, Dag presented a Volunteer Recognition Program and Luncheon to over fifty parent volunteers. One hundred twenty volunteers were invited to this event held in recognition of the wide variety of volunteer endeavors provided by our families. Kindergarten students acted as hosts for the program, and students in grades 1-3 sang a song to the volunteers. The Dag Hammarskjold band performed three numbers for our guests. Student council members in grades 4-6 assisted in recognizing and distributing gift bags and certificates. Finally, a luncheon was served. This activity was a wonderful tribute to the level of support provided to Dag and its students by our corps of volunteers. Thank you!

May events at Dentzler

Grandpals’/Special Friends’ Day – Mr. Chris Folsom, vocal music teacher, Miss Amy Fridrich, art teacher, and Mr. Jeff Olle, physical education teacher, collaborated to create one of the finest Grandpals’/Special Friends’ Days at Dentzler School. The gymnasium was transformed into a Jazz Club called "The Nest" since our school mascot is an eagle. Three different grade level groups (K-2, 3-4 and 5-6) gave singing performances amid scenery of skyscraper buildings and a moonlit, starry night. Choir members served desserts to audience participants. After each performance, the grandpals/special friends visited the students in their classrooms.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters End of the Year Celebration – 25 Padua High School students have been tutoring 1st – 6th grade Dentzler students once a week throughout the year. All of the students enjoyed an end of the year celebration with a pizza party.

Poetry and Pizza Extravaganza – Mrs. Lidia Whited, our Title I teacher, and Miss Jennifer Broa, our ELL (English Language Learners) teacher, provided a special event for the families of their students. The children in each of their programs were videotaped as they chorally read poems and this presentation was shown at the event. The families enjoyed a pizza dinner and at the conclusion of the event all of the children in each family received books.

Accelerated Reader Party – Over 100 children were invited to a Pizza Party Luncheon (We love pizza!) to celebrate their achievement of reaching their Accelerated Reader grade level goals for the year.

Science Fair – Fourth and sixth graders participated in our annual Science Fair. Normandy high school students judged the students’ projects and ribbons were presented for top honors.

Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast – At the end of the month 85 Dentzler volunteers are being recognized for all the many activities they have performed to help our students throughout the year such as chaperoning field trips, helping with classroom parties, working in the OhioReads Program, tutoring students, volunteering at PTA activities, etc. All of these many volunteers make a difference in the lives of our students and may touch their lives forever.

Field Day – One of the students’ most popular days of the year is Field Day. Kindergarten – 6th grade students participated in many activities including parachute, flag tag, scooter races, baseball, volleyball, 50/100 yard dash, team handball and the obstacle course. Many parent and community volunteers helped to make this a great day for our Dentzler students.

Green Valley Heroes

Green Valley staff selected three heroes from our student body to be honored during the district-wide Heroes in the Making Program. Sladjana and Susana Gavrilovic recently became citizens of the United States. These twins arrived at Green Valley in kindergarten with no English. The girls had witnessed much oppression in their native country. The girls are now in fifth grade. They speak and comprehend English exceptionally well. They put forth much effort to earn good grades! The other hero selected was Christopher Heim. Christopher also came to us in kindergarten with physical challenges. His determination, self motivation, and positive attitude are inspirations to everyone at Green Valley. Christopher is also in grade 5. The picture below is of Suzana, Sladjana, Mrs. Gavrilovic, Christopher, Mr. & Mrs. Heim, and Dr. Mahoney.

Mathematics Contest

Green Valley had four teams participate in the Greater Cleveland Council of Mathematics Contest. Fifth and sixth graders were involved in this activity on Saturday, May 6. The advisors of the teams were Miss Reitz and Mrs.

Konecsni. The following students participated in either the preparation and/or the actual contest: Tommy Byrne, Adam Archacki, Daniel Connor, A.J. Crewdson, Lexi Eging, Keith Novak, John Stefan, Austin Stacho, Greg Raimondo, Alicia Spehar, Sal Alshabani, Kevin Novak, Paul Samplawski, Cole Kaiser, Jenna Bailey, Nicole Santabarbara, Nick Dodds, Dale Zawicki, Vincent Leung, Sarah Soboslay, and David Tirpak. The picture below shows the blue ribbon team of Cole Kaiser, Paul Samplawski, Kevin Novak, and Sal Alshabani.

Congratulations to our mathematicians and our heroes!

Green Valley community celebrates the 2005-2006 school year.

Our fabulous choir and recorder ensemble, under the direction of Ms. Mary Jo Oklessen, performed on the Normandy High School stage to a crowd of parents, grandparents, other relatives, and friends. The theme was a spring bouquet of songs. Students AND TEACHERS danced and sang. There were several student Elvis impersonators. Our custodian, Mr. Sweeney, joined the show as Elvis. His adoring, hysterical fans were Miss Seibel, Miss Reitz, and Miss Olenick.

Our student CREW, almost 200 students strong, sponsored a sock hop. Refreshments were sold and all profits were donated to the Morning Kiwanis Club for their Relay for Life Team. The CREW,is under the leadership of Mrs. Knerem and Miss Connors. The purpose of the Crew is to provide an avenue for students to become volunteers actively engaged in the community. Our CREW is in the process of becoming K KIDS, an extension of Kiwanis.

NatureFest at Green Valley celebrates the Earth and our environment. This whole day event was filled with music, history, and science. One fun activity was a mini fund raiser to support our outdoor educational land lab. This popular activity allowed students to "dunk" a teacher (many teachers participated) or our custodian.

Reading Celebration Day was a huge event on May 25th at Green Valley. Students, staff, and parents along with several board office administrators including Mrs. Watson and Mrs. Filipow, and Normandy High School students participated in a day of reading activities. We were celebrating our year long program, Books are Treasures, and the fact that we once again read more than ONE MILLION MINUTES!

These activities are made possible by an energetic staff whose passion is to provide a variety of learning opportunities for our students. Our strong family of Green Valley parents, and community members helped us catapult these special Green Valley days into realities for our students.

Knowledge Master Open

Greenbriar's Knowledge Master team competed April 11, 2006, in the international academic competition.  This was the school's seventh consecutive year of having a team compete.  The team placed 6^th out of 35 Ohio middle schools.  This year 820 middle schools competed in places like Hong Kong, Canada, and Korea.  Greenbriar's team placed 185^th.  The team members are:

Jane Adams                                                Brian Klosek

            Ramune Batuskaite *                                Neil Kyser

            Alyssa Bower *                                           Thai Le *

            Jessica Fitch                                               Derek Paxson *

            Paige Gotwald                                             Wali Ahmed Shariff

            Megan Hurley *                                           Andrew Steingass

            Shazeb Khan                                               Mark Torres

            Kent Kiffer *                                                  Samantha Williams *

            Abbey Kish                                                   Kelsey Zajac *

                                                                                                                       * Denotes 2^nd year team member

The advisors are teachers: Mrs. Danica Hayden (Social Studies) and Mrs. Donna Rosewicz (Media Specialist).

Summer Vacation

While your children would probably be happy spending their summer break watching television, hanging out with friends and sleeping late everyday, their minds and bodies need daily exercise. Here are some tips to help your child and your family have a fun and stimulating summer break:

* Look for educational moments- Many children will resist if you tell them you are planning an educational outing. Instead, look for educational moments during routine outings. On trips to the park, talk about nature and on trips to the grocery store, focus on math & nutrition.

* Hometown programs- Take advantage of free or inexpensive community sponsored programs at schools and recreation areas. These programs are usually a great blend of learning and fun. They also give children an opportunity to try new things.

* Try new sports together- Sports are a great way for families to bond and get in shape. Look for opportunities for the whole family- from beach volleyball to croquet to a neighborhood 10K walk/run.

* Grab those board games- Some days it's just too hot for active play outside. Make sure you have board games and puzzles on hand. These activities teach math, motor and social skills.

* Sneak in some science- All you really need to get your child interested in science is to let them experience the world around them. Point out flowers, trees, butterflies and clouds.

* Read- Reading should be a part of every child's daily routines. Set aside time both for family members to read alone and for the kids to read to you. Join the summer reading club at the local library.

* Don't overdo it- Children need time to relax. Try to leave plenty of free time so your children can jump through the sprinkler, watch the clouds drift by or just play with friends.

* Finally- The most valuable learning tool is you! Whether you work full-time, part-time or as a full time parent, try to spend as much time with your children as possible. You'll both learn a lot.

Paws vs. Claws

The Paws vs. Claws game for the second semester at Hillside Middle School turned out to be just as exciting as the first! Before the game even started, the poster-judging contest began for both girls and boys. Though all the posters in the running were artistically done, both the boy and girl winners were Paws - giving them the head start for the game. In the first basketball quarter, the Claws girls passed the Paws, making shot after shot.

After their time ran out, the second quarter boys came out and these teams seemed evenly matched. Both teams made a couple points, the Claws putting up a strong defense to match the Paws' skill.  The conclusion of the second quarter began the halftime show. The cheerleaders entertained us with a rousing cheer, preceding the pie-eating contest. Samantha Klima of Paws ate her way to extra points for her team, while Noah Norton of Claws did the same. Then came the Tug of War. The girls of Claws lost to the Paws, but the boys of their house made up for it with a seemingly endless pull to victory both times.

With Claws in the lead, the third quarter commenced. After several minutes of competitive play, it ended the way it had begun - the Claws leading. The entire seventh grade watched the fourth quarter attentively, Paws silently pleading for points and Claws hoping to remain in the lead. Finally, the game ended, with the Claws victorious again. A roar went up from the Claws side of the bleachers and the Claws teachers celebrated as well. Miss Doll even went as far as to do two one-handed cartwheels! Mrs. Butterfield showed her spirit by doing a few cartwheels as well! Good job to both teams!

Pride Prevails Over Spirit

On Friday, May 12, the 8th grade at Hillside Middle School competed in the bi-annual competition between houses sponsored by the Unified Arts Department. Pride retained the trophy from the fall by squeaking out victories in the boys' skiing and pie eating contest, the girls' tug of war and the main event basketball game. Spirit house won the boys' tug of war along with the girls' pie eating contest and skiing event. The Spirit house also won the poster contests for the boys 'and girls' competitions. The overall record now stands with eight wins for Spirit and 7 wins for Pride. Stay tuned next year to see if the Pride house can overtake Spirit in overall wins.

Hillside Weight Club

The Hillside Weight Club was established in 1990 by Mr. George Propkopovich and has been running strong every since. The Hillside school bench press record was set in 1991 by Joe Chuba with an incredible 240 lbs. Over the years, many club members have tried to tie or exceed this mark, but have failed. That is until May 12, 2006, in front of a packed gym, Brian Rypiak set a new school bench press record of 245 lbs. Brian trained very hard as a member of the Hillside Weight Club. We are all very proud of his record that will be remembered for a long time.

Happy 75th Birthday to John Muir Elementary!

Our 75th Anniversary was celebrated at the school on Sunday, May 21st. The program consisted of an Open House which also featured our Art Show. The Art Show was organized by Art Teacher, Mrs. Kelli Yurkiewicz. An Assembly was held in the gymnasium which included dignitaries such as Board of Education President Rosemary C. Gulick, Vice President Karen S. Dendorfer, and Deputy Superintendent Christina Dinklocker. Political officials Mayor Dean DePiero, Councilman Brian Day, and Representative Timothy DeGeeter each presented a Resolution or a Proclamation to Principal Denver Daniel in honor of the occasion. The school choir, led by Ms. Stephanie Danvir, Choir Director, sang our newly rediscovered school song.

The theme of the event was "Honoring our Past, Celebrating our Present, and Looking Toward our Future." Overall attendance was estimated to be about 400 people. Many former students who had attended the school as long ago as the 1930's honored us with their presence. The oldest former teacher in attendance was 99 years old.

After the program, everyone was invited to have cake and punch in the cafeteria. The day would not be complete without remembering the author, inventor, explorer and naturalist the school was named for. John Muir, 1838-1914, is credited with being the father of our national parks.

Heroes in the Making

Six students from Normandy were chosen for the Heroes in the making program on May 5 at Parma High.  Congratulations to these students and their families for this great honor:

Bobby Becka, Katelyn Blockinger, Jason Chambers, Caitlin Figaro, Dan Holztrager and Milanka Petrovic.

Parkview Tri-City Safety News

Students in Mrs. Glaser's, Mrs. Jacobson's and Mrs. Johnson's third grade classes were busy earning money for the Tri-City Safety Drive.  A week-long raffle ended with the giveaway of a $25 gift certificate to Build-a-Bear, two sets of books from the Andrew Lost series by J.C. Greenburg and also a six-wheeler bike.  Prizes were provided through community donations.  Lucky winners were: Katelyn Klepac, Gianpaolo Fiorino, Jordan Moore and Zack Cook.

The third graders also raised $279.55 by selling popsicles during lunch time.  Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone involved in this worthwhile cause.

Parma Park Pieces

As a fundraiser reward at Parma Park, select students were treated to an afternoon of mega fun! Three inflatables were set up in the gym for students to enjoy. The profit from our fundraiser will be used to purchase items for assemblies and other student incentives for the upcoming school year.

On May 24, the Parma Park Choir performed for the residents of Park Creek Retirement Center. The students were first treated to a picnic lunch. After lunch, the choir performed A Disney Spectacular under the direction of Mr. Steve Smith. The students were awesome. We are hoping this is the first of many performances for the residents.

The week before Memorial Day was Spirit Week at Parma Park. We wore pajamas and carried stuffed animals on Monday. On Tuesday we dressed for our future careers. Wednesday brought sports day. By far, our favorite day was Thursday: swap day. The students dressed as the teachers and the teachers dressed as the students. Check out our future principal and our future art teacher!

Parma High Alumni Meeting

The PSH ALUMNI ASSOCIATION will hold their  ANNUAL MEETING on Monday, July 10, 2006 at 6:30 pm at Schaaf Community Center located at 5983 West 54th Street, Parma, OH 44129

Look for posted signs for meeting location. All alumni are invited to attend. Year-end reports will be issued. Information will be distributed to those reunion chairpersons for events in 2007. Contact Dianna Kall at 216-741-2888 for further information.

Mrs. Wiles chosen as DARE Educator of the Year

Congratulations to Mrs. Wiles who has been selected Ohio's 2006 "D.A.R.E. Educator of the Year" by our D.A.R.E. Officer, Patrolman Jim Griffith and a committee of representatives from all over the state.  Mrs. Wiles will be honored at the Annual Retrainer June 27-30 in Dublin, Ohio. She and a guest will attend a banquet on June 29, 2006, where she will accept her award.

Cleveland Indians High Achievers program

We are excited to announce that our school participated in the Cleveland Indians High Achievers program.  Students that received GROW (grade 1), AIM, or PRIDE were eligible to be selected.  The following students won a voucher for two upper box seats to an Indians game:

Aaron Gureck, Ashley Navolanic, Jean Klefman, Katelyn Pearsall, Danielle Van Gieson, Kaylee Klefman, Ashley Moga, Patrick Nock, Taylor Higginbotham, Alexis Stadalsky. Jeremy Gripp, Sammi Benak, Alex Gruse, Madison Sasena, Natalie Czalkiewicz, Chris Panico, Steven Steingass, Amanda Hejl, Sara Page, Dustin Nelson, Andreas Tellman and Michael Nock.

Happenings at Renwood Elementary in May:

* Our Cafeteria Manager, Mrs. Marilyn Ratusnik was honored along with 28 employees of the food service department for participating in an After Hours Educational Program offered by the Ohio Department of Education Office of Safety, Health, and Nutrition. We are so proud of her and all she does to make our cafeteria healthy and safe each and everyday.

* Renwood Elementary honored Allison Graham (Gr. 6) and Jessica Ehlert (Gr. 5) in the Heroes In The Making Assembly on May 5.

* Lisa Votruba, our Title I teacher coordinated a Title I Parent Activity Night on May 11. Parents, Guardians, and other family members had a fun evening participating in Reading and Math games. They also had an opportunity to purchase items from Education Avenue.

* The Lyric Opera came to Renwood Elementary on May 12. Our 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th graders had a wonderful experience not only listening to some beautiful voices, but the members of the opera presented the material in a very fun, educational way and also included some of our students in the production.

* Renwood celebrated Right to Read Week during the week of May 8. We culminated the week on May 12 with "Dress as your favorite storybook character." Each classroom winner received a book of their choice. We had some very cute storybook characters show up that day.

* Our Science Fair was held on May 5. Our fifth & sixth graders had some excellent Science projects showcased in our multipurpose room for everyone to see. Many thanks again to Science teachers Jenny Siekaniec (6th grade) and Tom Brahler (fifth grade).

Ridge-Brook's 50th anniversary celebration

Please enjoy these pictures of student artwork displayed for the school's 50th birthday.

Poetry Alive

Poetry Alive visited Shiloh May 5 and for one hour poetry did come to life. The Friends of the Cuyahoga County Public Library brought this program to Shiloh. About 75 students were selected to attend by their English teachers. Two energetic performers, Jesse and Alan, brought about 15 poems to life with nothing but their voices, faces, and movements. At times, students were enlisted to act out the poems with the presenters. Students who attended have a new appreciation for poetry after "Poetry Alive’s" visit.

Shiloh Play

On Friday, May 19, students performed the original play "There’s No Place like Shiloh" written by Mrs. Sarah Egan-Reeves and drama club students.

Shiloh Recognition Night

Recognition Night for Shiloh was held on Thursday, May 25. Students received awards for their academic accomplishments such as Highest Honors, Honor Roll, Best overall student in each house, as well as perfect attendance. Parents, teachers, and administrators are proud of these students’ accomplishments this past year.

A World In Motion

Engineers from one of our school's community partners, General Motors, have been coming to Thoreau Park Elementary School these past few months to teach third graders about friction, force, measurement, predicting and inventing.  The program is called AWIM (A World In Motion). Students have been very busy working in teams to invent and build sails for a toy called a skimmer. The goal is to see which design goes the straightest and farthest.

With General Motors engineers instructing and looking on, teams of students design and then test the latest improvements to their skimmers.

Outstanding Math Teacher

Last month, the Greater Cleveland Council for Teachers of Mathematics (GCCTM) recognized our third grade teacher, Dina McSweeney, as the outstanding math teacher of the south district for 2006. Pictured below with Mrs. McSweeney (center) are Principal Mrs. Hronek and Assistant Principal Mrs. Marconi.

Senior Choir performs at Memorial Day tribute

The Valley Forge Senior Choir performed at the Memorial Day Tribute to Veterans on May 22 which was held at the Parma Veterans Center.  On a sunny but cold afternoon, the choir gave a wonderful performance under the direction of Mr. Jared Plasterer.

Among those addressing the crowd were Parma Mayor Dean DePiero and Ward 1 Councilwoman Mary Galinas.  Major Duffy Woodward was the keynote speaker and delivered a moving speech about what Memorial Day meant to him.