Smore logo
remove_red_eye 1.5K
page background
Logo

Worthingway Weekly

February 6, 2026

Worthingway Weekly February 6, 2026

Principal's Message Principal's Message

It was wonderful to see so many of you during our first round of conferences earlier this week! Thank you for taking the time to sit down with us; those conversations are the highlight of our week and provide invaluable insights into your children’s lives.


If you weren’t able to make it, please know that we missed you, but we completely understand. Life is a balancing act, and a single time slot on a calendar doesn’t define your involvement in your child’s education. Our "open door" doesn't close just because conference week ends.


If we missed each other:

  • Stay Connected: You can always reach out to teachers via email with specific questions.

  • Infinite Campus and Schoology: Our teachers use Infinite Campus to record grades and mark missing assignments. Our teachers use Schoology to post assignments. Click here for a guide on how to access both.

  • Request a Check-in: If you have a pressing concern, feel free to contact the front office to schedule a brief phone call or virtual check-in at a later date.


Whether we spoke in person or are connecting through this newsletter, please know we value your partnership and are cheered on by your support.


In middle school, the "bridge" is more important than ever. These years are a whirlwind of growth, discovery, and—let’s be honest—the occasional growing pain. We know that for a student to truly thrive, the school and the family must move in sync.


Conferences aren’t just a time to review grades or check off boxes. They are a vital opportunity to:

  • Align our Support: Ensuring we are sending the same encouraging messages at home and at school.

  • Celebrate the Whole Child: Sharing the wins—both academic and social—that happen when no one is looking.

  • Strengthen the Connection: Deepening the trust that allows us to navigate challenges as a united front.


We value your insight because you are the expert on your child. Your perspective helps us tailor our approach and ensures that every student feels seen, heard, and supported.


Here are a few quick questions you can consider when preparing for and participating in Family Conferences:

  • Talk to Your Student First: Ask them, "What are you most proud of in this class?" and "Is there anything you’re finding tricky that we should ask about?"
  • Focus on the "Whole Student": While grades are important, don't hesitate to ask about their social-emotional growth. (e.g., "How do they interact with their peers during group work?")
  • The "One Thing" Question: If time is running short, try asking: "What is the one thing my child could do this month to see the most growth?"

Important UPDATES Important UPDATES

This Week

  • This week we saw...
    • ..our students welcome new students to our building by taking them on our tours, helping with lockers, ensuring they have someone to sit with at lunch.
    • ..our winter student-athletes finished their seasons strong
    • ..our 7th grade girls basketball team won the Pride Bracket in their tournament!
    • ..our 8th grade girls basketball team got runner-up in the Silver Bracket of their tournament!
    • ..our Locked In Learners (improved at least one letter grade in one class from quarter one to quarter two) enjoy a free Snapple courtesy of our PTA
    • ..our Honor Roll students decorated their lockers!
    • ..our staff collaborated with each other during a staff meeting learning more about important work that supports our students' academic growth
    • ..our staff connected with families during conferences to continue to bridge relationships and support our students


Family Conferences

  • We will host Conferences again on February 11th from 4:45-6:45pm.
  • Click here to sign up
  • Click here for more information


THANK YOU PTA

  • Our staff would like to thank our amazing PTA for sponsoring dinners during Conference nights! It is greatly appreciated.


Yearbook Ordering!

  • Yearbook orders are now live! Please reserve your yearbook for $27 at book.hrimaging.com. The deadline to order is February 27, 2026. Your student will also be coming home with a paper ordering form as well if you would rather submit a check or cash.


CONGRATULATIONS - MATH COUNTS TEAM!!

  • Our Math Counts Team brought back the Golden Calculator award this year
  • Worthingway team members include: Thomas Becker, Molly Bunner, Lillian Keisel, Zach Van Buskirk, Warner Yeh, James Scully, Eliza Southerland, Samuel Johnson and Samuel Knight
  • James Scully won the countdown round competition!
  • Competing at the Regional Competition will be: James Scully, Eliza Southerland, Samuel Johnson and Samuel Knight
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size

8th Grade Scheduling for TWHS 8th Grade Scheduling for TWHS

As a way to prepare for the high school scheduling/registration process, we thought it might be helpful to share a timeline of events as well as some helpful resources that you can review as a family. High school scheduling is essentially broken up into 3 different parts with Mrs.Todd going into ELA classes to lead each component. Please see below:


Part 1: Mrs. Todd will visit 8th grade ELA classes the week of February 2nd. She will visit Mr. Falter's classes on February 2nd and Mrs. Heydinger's classes on February 4th. In this portion, she will go over a presentation regarding high school courses and walk students through the 9th grade registration form. Each student will have their own form that she will pass out on this day. Students will have ONE week to complete their registration form and be ready to turn it into their ELA class for part 2. All students MUST have their registration form signed by a parent/guardian.


Part 2: During part 2, Mrs. Todd will go back into ELA classes (Mr. Falter's classes on February 9th and Mrs. Heydinger's classes on February 11th) to walk students through the registration process on Infinite Campus. Students will enter their courses from the registration form into Infinite Campus and turn in their registration form.


Part 3: Mrs. Todd will go back into ELA classes on February 17th (for Mr. Falter) and February 18th (For Mrs. Heydinger) to answer any additional questions students may have.

*8th grade teachers are submitting core classes recommendations and those recommendations have been shared with Mrs. Todd. Mrs. Todd will also be in the lunchroom during this period of time to answer more questions.


Here are some additional resources:

- Students interested in Linworth can email Mrs. Todd with a preferred date and time for a tour and she will be sure to connect with Linworth directly.

- For students who are inquiring about courses to "Get Ahead" over the summer, please click HERE for that information

- We will also be providing a tour day to Delaware Area Career Center (DACC) in late March so please be on the lookout for additional details around Mid-February.

- Please see the link for High School Courses & Descriptions at Thomas Worthington High School

- You will want to consult with your high school counselor regarding graduation requirements

- Please see the link for High School Courses & Registration


Linworth

  • 1 in 3 Linworth students participate in co-curricular sports and activities at WKHS & TWHS.

  • Our ethos of Take Care of Yourself, Take Care of Each Other, and Take Care of This Place creates a self-governing body of students who participate in their educational process via schedule building, school policies, and student/staff co-created and taught classes.

  • Linworth Walkabouts have happened on six continents and dozens of states.

  • Linworth has hundreds of alumni living in the district and started in 1973.

  • Watch our TedTalk, a message from the Superintendent, or a message from students and staff.

  • Interested in Linworth? Apply here!

  • You can schedule a half-day visit to Linworth with Mrs. Todd in the office or here.



TWHS STEM TEAM

  • We are thrilled to share an exciting opportunity for our students—the TWHS Freshman STEM Team! This innovative program blends rigorous academic content with real-world applications, helping students develop critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in a dynamic and engaging environment.

  • While designed for students interested in STEM fields, the STEM Team prepares all students for any college or career path. Students also have access to unique opportunities, including advanced technology, internships with companies like Abbott Labs and Honda, and partnerships with universities such as The Ohio State University and the University of Cincinnati. We hope you’ll consider this incredible opportunity for your child!

  • This program provides a solid foundation for students’ futures, whether in STEM or any other field.

  • STEM Team Overview

  • STEM Team Flowchart


8th Grade Transition to Thomas Worthington High School

  • We were excited and encouraged to see all of the 8th grade students and parents visit Thomas Worthington High School in January to explore the school and gain information on academic offerings. Throughout the remainder of the school year and summer there will be events that will support 8th grade students and families as they prepare to transition to Thomas Worthington. Please refer to the TWHS Class of 2030 INFORMATIONAL FLYER for information regarding 8th to 9th grade orientation activities that have taken place and are still to come.
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size

Staff Spotlight Staff Spotlight

User uploaded image
zoom_out_map

Andy Falter

What subject/grade do you teach?

  • ELA (grade 8)


When did you start teaching?

  • 2000


What is your favorite part about Worthingway?

  • The students


What is your favorite part about teaching?

  • Building relationships and learning about others interests


What are your hobbies?

  • Gardening, running/walking, drumming


What is your favorite food/drink?

  • Coffee


What are you most proud of?

  • My daughter


What is the most adventurous thing you've ever done?

  • I've jumped out of a perfectly good airplane


What is your favorite music?

  • Spotify said that I listened to 162 different genres last year, with number one being "Yacht Rock."


What is something unique or interesting about you that most people might not know?

  • I've performed at the White House six times during the Obama administration.


What is your favorite corny joke?

  • Why couldn't Batman go fishing? Because Robin ate all the worms.
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size
pdf
insert_drive_file
WABFE JAN26 Newsletter.pdf
Download
1.2 MB

Dental Clinic

Worthington Schools is happy to be partnering once again with Ohio Dental Outreach, to offer in-school dental care. The dates for Worthington Estates and Worthingway Students are Wednesday February 11, 2026. The services will be performed at Worthington Estates Elementary (Worthingway students will walk over accompanied by school staff). Dental care includes a complete dental exam, x-rays, cleaning, fluoride and sealants when necessary, and in some cases, restorative care such as fillings, all occurring during the school day. All insurance is accepted including Medicaid and CHIP. For those without insurance, a self- pay option is available for $71 (ages 13 or younger), or you may also request donated care to cover the cost.


Permission slips are available at your school office. These need to be completed and returned as soon as possible, or you may complete the form online -- the links for each school are found below. Parent/Guardian signature is required in order to treat your student on the day of the clinic. We need as many students as possible to complete permission slip by February 4, 2026, although students will be accepted after that date.


If you have any questions please contact Joyce Casey, our School Nurse at 614-450-4300 or jcasey@wscloud.org.


Worthingway Middle School: https://www.myschooldentist.com/WNWCOH_schsrm

User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size

Important REMINDERS Important REMINDERS

Recognize a Staff Member with a Cardinal Compliment

  • Has a teacher, counselor, or staff member made a positive impact on your child? We want to hear about it! Take a moment to fill out our form to recognize a Worthingway staff member who has gone above and beyond. Your kind words mean a lot and help us celebrate the amazing work happening every day in our school community.


Bell Schedule

  • Click here for our bell schedule


Schoology

  • Schoology is our LMS (Learning Management System). Basically that means it is the "website" that our teachers use to house and communicate learning goals, assignments, and even some assessments.
    • Parent Guide: Schoology
    • What is Schoology?


Infinite Campus

  • Infinite Campus is where you can access your students' grades, attendance, etc.
  • Parent Guide: Infinite Campus


Securly Home

  • You can download the Securly app to keep your student safe while using their school issued chromebook at home. Click here to learn more.


Best Resource!!!

  • Click here for a comprehensive document that will help you with Schoology and Infinite Campus and Securly Home.

PTA Update PTA Update

Want to Help?

There’s still time to contribute! Use our Amazon Wish List to send a game or two. Even a small purchase goes a long way in creating inclusive, shared fun:


Click here for our Wish List


Become a Cards Helper!

Whether it’s donating items, chaperoning an event, or lending your talents behind the scenes - We’d love to have you!


This is low-commitment, high-impact involvement that makes a big difference.

Sign Up to Help https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfYq5-2XuC-B5j3uiXctN5hAHXyioj_MhPVYN6kYCCL4QG_8w/viewform?usp=header


More Ways to Support Worthingway PTA

Kroger Community Rewards
Link your Kroger card to Worthingway PTA (NPO #RF924), and a portion of your regular grocery spending helps support our school—at no cost to you!


Donate or Join the PTA
Every dollar and every member matters.

  • Donate to the PTA

  • Join the PTA


Stay Connected

  • Read this section of the principal’s newsletter each week

  • Visit our website: worthingwaypta.my.canva.site

  • Join the conversation: Search “Worthingway PTA” on Facebook


Jennifer Johnson
PTA President
Worthingway Middle School

User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size

Athletics Athletics

  • All student-athletes must be registered in Final Forms in order to receive athletic communications and participate in any athletic tryouts, open gyms/fields, and practices.
  • Worthington students in grades 6-12 who provide their student ID will be admitted free into any home Worthington athletic contest.
  • You may use this link to purchase tickets for athletic events through Hometown Ticketing.
  • Check out our athletic website for more information
  • Team schedules can be found here
  • WORTHINGWAY WINTER SPORTS SCHEDULES
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size

Pick Up and Drop Off Pick Up and Drop Off

Students that are dropped off or picked up by car will enter via our main office entrance (Rieber Street). Buses will drop off and and pick up at our 6th grade entrance (Guyer Street side). Important notes:


  • Student Safety is our top priority. Please be mindful of our walkers and bike riders (we have bike racks on our bus drop off side). If you exit on the Guyer Street side, please yield to crossing students AND incoming buses.
  • Doors open at 8:50 for student drop off. Students will be instructed to remain in the cafeteria or gym until 9:03. Classes begin at 9:10 and end at 3:50.
  • We ask families to pull all the way forward to the end of our main lot at pick up time. Cars that stop at the front doors can create backups that extend onto Rieber St.
  • You may notice one or two cars in the bus loop at the beginning and end of the day. These vehicles have special permission to be here for their students' transportation needs.
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map Show in original size

Upcoming Dates Upcoming Dates

User uploaded image
zoom_out_map
  • District Calendar for 2025-26


Wednesday, February 11

  • Family Conferences (4:45-6:45)
  • Information Night (7:00-8:15) - for current 5th grade students and families

Friday, February 13

  • No School

Monday, February 16

  • No School
User uploaded image
zoom_out_map

Worthingway Middle School

Mr. Todd Keenan, principal (tkeenan@wscloud.org)

Mrs. Abby Jinks, assistant principal (ajinks@wscloud.org)

Ms. Lara Ruffing, mental health specialist (lruffing@wscloud.org)

Mr. Nick Wiedenhoft, athletic director (nwiedenhoft@wscloud.org)

Mrs. Paula Lee, administrative assistant (plee@wscloud.org)

Ms. Amanda DeBernardi, administrative assistant (adebernardi@wscloud.org)

Mrs. Jodi Hill, attendance and testing (wayattend@wscloud.org or click here)

Mrs. Joyce Casey, school nurse (jcasey@wscloud.org)


Location: 6625 Guyer Street, Worthington, OH


Phone: 614-450-4300

School Website

Todd Keenan
Todd is using Smore to create beautiful newsletters
Loading indicator

close

Created with

Communicate quickly and effectively with interactive newsletters.

Smore empowers educators to connect with their community, streamline school communications,
and increase engagement.

Create a newsletter