In recognition of a commitment to quality and an ongoing dedication to the learning and development of children, the Highland Local School District’s “Little Hornets” Preschool Program, located at Granger Elementary School, has received a 5-Star Step Up to Quality Award from the State of Ohio – the highest rating attainable. Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) is a 5-star quality rating and improvement system administered by the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. This is the second time the Highland preschool program has been awarded the 5-star rating. To learn more about the award and the preschool program, download the full story HERE.

It's not every day that a student has the opportunity to assume the role of their principal! But that's exactly what happened on December 4 when Sharon Elementary 1st grader Chloe Rennels took the lead at her school.

“Principal for A Day” was one of the many items auctioned off during the 15th Annual Highland Foundation Dinner held on November 2. Each elementary school participates in the auction and allows the students an up close look at what it's like to serve as a principal. Chloe had several responsibilities to take care of throughout the day including morning announcements, visiting classrooms, assisting in the holiday shop, serving as a guest reader, inspecting and touring the building, and of course eating lunch with the principal. Chloe, pictured with Sharon Principal Mrs. Katie Kowza, is the daughter of Matthew and Jill Rennels of Sharon Township.

On Tuesday, December 17, Highland Schools will hold a district wide fundraiser for the United Way of Medina County. The annual ”Holiday Hat Day” allows any student, teacher, bus driver, custodian, aide, secretary, etc. to donate $1 to wear his/her favorite holiday headgear (Santa hats, elf hats, scrooge hats, antlers and the like). Money will be collected at each building. The goal of the United Way of Medina County is to ensure that area children get a strong start in school, young adults have access to mental health services, and children do not go hungry. 

Since 2014 the United Way has:

• Helped 7,000 students focus on learning by providing kindergarten readiness programs, academic support, and nutritional food.
• Helped 17,000 youth by providing mental health access in schools. 

All proceeds collected from the Holiday Hat Day will benefit the United Way. Thank you!

Congratulations to Sharon Elementary 4th grader Jacob Arvanetes who won 3rd place in the 2019 Top Dog Essay Contest sponsored by Medina County Auditor Mike Kovack. Jacob was one of the top 5 winners in this year’s contest and was recognized during an awards ceremony on November 20 at the Medina County Administration Building where he had the opportunity to read his winning essay about his dog, Finley. Jacob is the son of Lauren and Jason Abbott of Sharon Township and Tim and Amanda Arvanetes of Winter Garden, Florida. Pictured with Jacob (and a photo of his dog, Finley) is Medina County Auditor Mike Kovack.

Registration now opne for the 2019-20 Winter Youth Basketball League! Open to boys and girls in grades 1-3. Games and practices are organized by Highland High School boys basketball coaching staff and players. This league offers an emphasis on skill development, basketball decision making and participation. All playing time on an equal basis with dates held at Highland High School in the Main and Aux Gyms.

• Times include practices and games: 9-10:30 a.m. on Saturdays December 21, 28, January 4, 11, 18, 25, February 1. 
• Cost is $75 per player and includes reversible jersey. Please pay at the door on December 21 with checks payable to Highland Local Schools.
• Any questions, email Coach Adam Cestaro at acestaro@highlandschools.org or Coach Jack Leslie at jack.leslie123@gmail.com. 
• Register your child HERE