Worthingway Weekly

We are immensely proud of our 8th grade Science teacher, Erica Hitshuzen, for being recognized as Teacher Leader of the Year by GrowNextGen. You can learn more about who Erica is as a person in our staff spotlight below. If you'd like to join us in congratulating Erica, please send her an email at ehitzhusen@wscloud.org

GrowNextGen (GNG), a project of Ohio’s soybean farmers and the Ohio Soybean Council (OSC), has named Erica Hitzhusen, an 8th-grade science teacher at Worthingway Middle School (Worthington City Schools), as its 2025 Teacher Leader of the Year. The award honors Ohio educators who elevate science teaching statewide through advocacy, peer professional learning, and classroom resources that connect curriculum to modern agriculture.

Hitzhusen’s leadership extends well beyond her own classroom. She uses GrowNextGen’s clear, standards-aligned lessons with her 8th graders and then shares what worked with colleagues. She has presented hands-on conference sessions to help teachers bring GrowNextGen lessons into their own classrooms. She connected suburban students and educators to Ohio researchers, industry partners, and real agricultural contexts. She also shares teacher-tested strategies on the Ohio AgNet network and in regional education forums.

“Erica Hitzhusen exemplifies teacher leadership through infectious curiosity, open-handed generosity, and actionable enthusiasm,” said Jane Hunt, GrowNextGen program director. “She shows how agriculture can be a practical, teachable context for science in any Ohio classroom.”

“Ohio’s soybean farmers are proud to support teacher leaders whose work strengthens classrooms, communities, and our state’s workforce,” said Tom Fontana, Director of Research and Education at the Ohio Soybean Council. “Erica’s advocacy and peer support embody the impact of the Teacher Leader of the Year.”

Hitzhusen will be recognized at the Ohio Soybean Council’s annual dinner on December 15, 2025.

About GrowNextGen

GrowNextGen connects Ohio students to science and careers in modern agriculture through free classroom curriculum, hands-on workshops, and teacher leadership—supported by the Ohio Soybean Council and Ohio soybean farmers. Learn more at grownextgen.org.

This Week

• This week, we saw:
• 8th grade student mentors met with 6th grade classes and talked about building healthy relationships
• staff and students welcomed new students to our building
• students stop and helped others in the hallway who dropped items
• staff engage in deep levels of learning and collaboration on Nov. 4
• families and staff collaborate together to have a valuable conversation about how to engage but also support students through productive struggle as they wrestle with academic rigor

In The News

Service is a Big Part of Game for KMS Volleyball

• KMS partnered with Worthingway to host a Volley for the Cure game on Sept. 30. Jess Minarchek (KMS Coach and Spanish teacher at KMS and Worthingway) and Christy Heydinger (Worthingway Coach and ELA teacher) did a great job at working together with both teams to make this happen.

Veterans Day Recognition

• We are celebrating Veterans Day at Worthingway by honoring the Veterans who are in our lives. Please complete this Google Form for each Veteran. Share details about their service to the Armed Forces and include a photo. These photos will be displayed at Worthingway during the week of Nov. 11. Please complete forms by Friday, November 8th. Thank you!

Resources for Families

• We are always looking for ways to ensure our students and families have resources if they are experiencing food insecurity. Whether your family can help or is in need of help, you have come to the right place!

  
  

  If you can help:

  We will be holding a food/household item drive in November, and if you can donate, it would be greatly appreciated! You may also make a donation to the Worthington Resource Pantry online OR collect items to have your child bring to school in November, if you can.

  
  

  If you need support:

  Worthington Resource Pantry and Resource Center

  Smoky Row Food Pantry

  Worthington Buddy Boxes

Our motto at Worthingway is to “Be Kind, Work Hard, Own It.” We have embedded this motto into the conversations we have with students in the classrooms, hallways, and common areas. We define Being Kind as "be kind with your words to and about others."

One of my least favorite parts of my job is when a student says something hurtful to someone else. However, one of my favorite parts of my job is helping students to grow and become better during those teachable moments. We have an obligation to teach students that our words matter.

On November 13th and 20th, we will facilitate a special lesson with our 6th grade students in their Social Studies classes. Our goal is to focus on harmful language and the impact it can have on people. Even if done unintentionally, the harm can have far reaching effects. The purpose of this lesson is to help students understand the history and impact of slurs, how to respond in situations in which slurs are used, and to set clear expectations that harmful language is not acceptable in our building.

Middle school is a formative time in the development of young adults. We want to partner with you to equip them with the knowledge and skills to make positive choices and properly navigate difficult situations with others. When we have these lessons in school, we will be providing supplemental materials ahead of time for you to process some of these concepts at home. We want to make sure we're all working together and transparently to make this school a safe and supportive space for all our students.

If you have any questions about the lesson or would like your child to opt out, please reach out to building principal, Todd Keenan.

This year, Worthington City Schools is excited to launch a new student survey: the Portrait of a Learner Survey. This tool is designed to help us understand and measure the durable skills our community values most, skills students carry with them throughout their time in Worthington and beyond.

Since 2017, we’ve partnered with Panorama to gather survey data. While Panorama has served us well, moving to an internal survey gives us more flexibility, control, and connection to the work that matters most in our district. Our new survey is designed to:

• Align directly to the Portrait of a Learner, highlighting the skills our community wants students to develop.

• Connect to our ongoing focus on executive function skills, including response inhibition, flexibility, task initiation, emotional control, sustained attention, and organization.

• Provide actionable insight for teachers, principals, and staff, helping us support students’ growth in these critical areas.

The survey is age-appropriate, tiered, and includes a lesson plan teachers will share with students prior to the survey.

• Grades 3–5: 15 questions

• Grades 6–8: 20 questions

• Grades 9–12: 25 questions

Our goal is to use the Portrait of a Learner Survey to create a clear picture of student growth in durable skills, identify areas where additional support may be needed, and connect this information directly to instruction and intervention. This survey isn’t just about data—it’s about understanding our students and supporting their continued growth in the skills that matter most to our community.

If you have any questions about the Portrait of a Learner survey, please don’t hesitate to contact us in the office at 614-450-4300.

The Ohio SAVE Act (HB 123 and ORC 3313.60) and Worthington City Schools Board Policy (5350) require that all students in grades 6-12 receive at least one hour or one standard class period per school year of evidence-based suicide awareness and prevention, safety training and violence prevention, and social inclusion instruction.

To align with the SAVE Act, we will deliver three lessons during nationally recognized awareness weeks. We will deliver these lessons during students' Wellness class:

• National Suicide Prevention Week (Sept. 8–12): Say Something: Suicide Prevention

• Start with Hello Week (Sept. 15–19): Start with Hello

• National Anti-Bullying Week (Nov. 10–14): Say Something

Although Ohio law requires these lessons, we recognize the sensitive nature of the topics. Families may choose to opt their student out of participation. If you prefer for your child not to receive this instruction, please contact your student’s principal or school counselor. Students who do not participate will be provided with an alternative activity.

If you have any questions about the SAVE Act requirements or the instructional materials, please contact Mr. Keenan at tkeenan@wscloud.org.

What year did you start teaching?

• I started in outdoor education in 1997 and became a classroom teacher in 2002.

What do you teach?

• 8th grade Science

What is your favorite part about Worthingway?

• The amazing people I get to work with everyday!

What is your favorite part about teaching?

• I love learning from others, whether it's from other adults or my students. I learn something new everyday.

What are you most proud of?

• My family

What are your hobbies?

• I love getting outside from kayaking to climbing mountains. I also love to garden and read.

What the most adventurous thing you've ever done?

• I jumped out of a plane - skydiving!

What is your favorite snack?

• Falafel and hummus are my favorite foods.

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

• I took horseback riding lessons (hunter/jumper) and worked on a horse farm for nine years when I was a kid.

What is your favorite corny joke?

• Why can't you hear a pterodactyl going to the bathroom? Because the "P" is silent!

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.

Looking to give your child the adventure of a lifetime while providing them a unique educational opportunity outside of the classroom? Discover the world through an educational travel experience!

Join us for a family information session where we’ll unveil the life-changing experiences awaiting Worthington. These trips are guaranteed to broaden horizons and create lasting memories. The 2027 trips will travel to a wide variety of countries including: Iceland, Peru, Japan, Costa Rica, Italy & Greece, London, Paris & Rome, and The Netherlands, Belgium, France & England.

Date: Monday, November 17th

Time: 7 - 8 PM Location: WKHS Commons/Cafeteria

Please register to attend the info session here: https://eftours.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cZT4x8BXuqG0kwm

See what Educational Leaders say about the impact of an educational tour.

As the holiday season approaches, we warmly invite you to join Worthington Connects, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families in need within the Worthington community. Our mission is to provide essential resources, spreading joy and hope to those facing challenges.

There are several meaningful ways you can give back this holiday season:

• Sponsor a Family: Provide gifts and essential items directly to a family in need.
• Donate a Laundry Basket of Essentials: Items like cleaning supplies, toiletries, and non-perishable food are always appreciated.
• Contribute to a Family Stocking: Gift cards, small gifts, and other stocking stuffers are wonderful ways to brighten someone’s holiday.
• Monetary or Gift Card Donations: Your financial contributions or gift cards help us address families' unique needs.

To learn more or to make a donation, please fill out this Google Form to let us know how you'd like to contribute.

Visit our website to make a financial contribution which will go towards supporting families in need this holiday season!

https://worthingtonconnects.org/

Thank you for your generosity and for helping make the holidays brighter for those in need!

Warm regards,
The Worthington Connects Team

Support Our Community: Food Drive Partnership with Student Council

We know these are trying times for many families in our community, and Worthingway PTA is committed to doing what we can to help.

That’s why we’re excited to partner with the Worthingway Student Council on their upcoming Fall Food Drive! While students will be encouraged to bring in tangible items (non-perishables, pantry goods, etc.) to donate, we also know that financial contributions go a long way.

Why monetary donations?

Every $1 donated to the Worthington Resource Pantry is stretched significantly farther thanks to the pantry’s direct partnerships with vendors and suppliers. It’s one of the most impactful ways to give!

Want to join in the classroom competition?

If you make a financial contribution directly to the pantry, simply email a copy or photo of your receipt to worthingwaypta@gmail.com.

In the email, please include:

- Your student’s name

- Their grade level

- Their Assist teacher's name

For every $1 donated, your student will receive 2 points toward their class’s total in the Student Council’s friendly competition!

This is a great way to support the pantry, boost your student’s team, and show the power of our Worthingway community.

Use the following link to donate: https://www.worthingtonresourcepantry.org/donate

Butterbraids Fundraiser – THANK YOU!!!!
We are thrilled to announce that this year’s Butterbraids fundraiser was our most successful ever - Thanks to YOU! Your support helped us raise more money for our school than any previous year. Every purchase makes a difference, and we’re so grateful.
Pickup Info:

• Be sure to pick up your Butterbraids orders on Tuesday, November 11th, in the Worthingway cafeteria from 4:00–6:00 PM.
• Please plan accordingly, especially for larger orders.

Dave’s Hot Chicken Fundraiser
Take a night off from cooking and help Worthingway at the same time!

• When: Sunday, November 9th, from 4:00–8:00 PM
• How: Use the QR code on the flyer to place your order ahead of time or simply walk into the store!
• Where: 3590 W. Dublin-Granville Road
• Why: 20% of all proceeds go back to Worthingway PTA to support our students and staff.

Help Us Build Our Indoor Game Collection

• As the weather cools down, we want to provide options for students who stay indoors during Community Time. We’ve created an Amazon Wish List with fun, student-friendly games that will stay at school for shared use!
• Even one small purchase goes a long way in helping create inclusive fun for all!

Want to Help? Become a Cards Helper!

• Whether it’s donating items, chaperoning an event, or pitching in behind the scenes, we'd love to have you!
• When you sign up, we’ll reach out when volunteer opportunities arise. It’s low-commitment, high-impact.
• Sign up HERE!

More Ways to Support Worthingway PTA

1. Kroger Community Rewards
   Link your Kroger card to Worthingway PTA (NPO #RF924) and a portion of your regular purchases supports our school - At no cost to you!

2. Donate or Join the PTA
   Every dollar and every member makes a difference.
   Donation Link: https://worthingway.givebacks.com/shop/items/115388
   Join the PTA: https://worthingway.givebacks.com/shop/items/116247

Stay Connected with Us

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

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

• Join our Facebook group: Search “Worthingway PTA”

Together, we’re building a stronger school community. Thank you for being part of it!

Jennifer Johnson
PTA President
Worthingway Middle School

• 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

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.

• District Calendar for 2025-26

November 13

• Fall Family and Community Resources Fair

November 26, 27, 28

• No School

December 9

• Winter MAP testing: MATH

December 10

• Winter MAP testing: ELA

December 19

• Last Day of Quarter 2

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

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

Mrs. Lyn Whitmer, counselor (lwhitmer@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