11/5 Election Day

11/6 BMHS Memory Garden Dedication

11/11 Veterans Day

11/18 Board of Education Meeting/Be A Titan Recognition

11/21-11/23 Fall Play: BMHS presents The Great Gatsby

11/27-11-29 Thanksgiving Break

Please also check your child’s school newsletter for additional important dates that pertain to your student.

2024-2025 School Year Calendar

Left to Right: Julie Kadri representing Dave Tressel, Rob Verhest and Christina Silea representing Del Verhest, Dennis Kushlak (BHS ‘59), Marianna Peris, Major Jason Cole (BHS ‘98), Fred Bolden (MHS ‘91), Paul Angelo (MHS ‘02), Anthony Kleem (BHS ‘83), and Gary Puntel.

The 2024 Berea City School District Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame event, held on October 17, honored an impressive group of individuals for their outstanding contributions to education, public service, the arts, and the military. These inductees, whose achievements span a wide array of fields, exemplify the competencies of a Portrait of a Titan. Here’s a summary of the inductees:

Paul Angelo, Ph.D. (Midpark High School, Class of 2002)

Paul Angelo is a true example of academic and professional excellence. A U.S. Naval Academy graduate, Rhodes Scholar, and Truman Scholar, Paul earned advanced degrees from Oxford and University College London. His career in the U.S. Navy has seen him serve globally, focusing on Latin American relations, security, and governance. Currently, he is the Director of the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies at the National Defense University and continues to serve in the Navy Reserve. Paul’s work has been recognized with the Guatemalan government’s “Monja Blanca” medal, and his recent book has become an Amazon bestseller.

Fred Bolden (Midpark High School, Class of 1991)

Fred Bolden’s career in education is marked by his leadership as Superintendent of Solon City Schools, one of Ohio’s top-performing districts. Under his guidance, Solon City Schools have repeatedly ranked first in Ohio for student achievement. Fred has implemented strategic initiatives in social-emotional learning and instructional innovation, ensuring the district’s academic success and community engagement. His work continues to impact the educational landscape in Ohio.

Major Jason “C4” Cole (Berea High School, Class of 1998)

Major Jason Cole, a Berea native, serves as Chief of Air Defense Operations for the Continental United States NORAD Region and First Air Force. Since joining the Air Force in 2004, Jason has risen through the ranks, holding key leadership roles and receiving numerous accolades, including Airman of the Year awards. His commitment to defending the homeland and mentoring the next generation of leaders reflects his deep dedication to his country and community.

Anthony Kleem (Berea High School, Class of 1983)

Anthony Kleem is a celebrated Americana artist whose nostalgic, storytelling style has earned him national recognition. A dedicated educator for over three decades, Anthony has also received numerous awards for his teaching. His artwork has been showcased across the country, including exhibitions in New York and Ohio. Anthony’s work continues to inspire and evoke the essence of simpler times, making him one of America’s most cherished living artists.

Dennis Kushlak (Berea High School, Class of 1959)

Dennis Kushlak’s lifelong commitment to Berea and its community has left a significant mark. A distinguished educator and coach, Dennis has served on numerous committees and councils throughout his life. His dedication to Berea High School’s legacy and his service to various organizations have earned him multiple awards, including the Berea Chamber of Commerce Grindstone Award and inductions into athletic halls of fame.

Marianna Peris (Staff)

Marianna Peris spent over 30 years serving the Berea City School District in various roles, from school bus driver to secretary. Her passion for helping students extended beyond the classroom, where she coordinated community service programs and led initiatives supporting students and staff. Marianna’s contributions to the district have had a lasting impact, and she continues to serve her community through her involvement in various organizations.

Gary Puntel (Staff)

With over 40 years of service in education, Gary Puntel’s career has been defined by his commitment to students and staff. As a teacher, administrator, and director, Gary has left a profound impact on Berea City Schools, mentoring future leaders and fostering strong relationships throughout his career. His dedication to education and public service continues to be a hallmark of his legacy.

Dave Tressel (Staff, Posthumous)

Dave Tressel, a lifelong educator and coach, dedicated 35 years to Berea City Schools and continued his service as a school board member. Known for his work as a mentor, volunteer, and active community member, Dave’s contributions extended far beyond the classroom. His legacy of kindness, leadership, and dedication to his community lives on through the many lives he touched.

Del Verhest (Staff, Posthumous)

Del Verhest, a retired Master Sergeant from the U.S. Air Force, served the Berea City School District for over a decade as a custodian. His commitment to public service and passion for working on cars and woodworking made him a beloved figure in the community. Del’s legacy of dedication and service lives on through his family and the generations he inspired.

This year’s inductees have not only achieved personal and professional success but have also dedicated their lives to making a difference in their communities and beyond. The Berea City School District proudly recognizes their contributions and celebrates their lasting impact on the world.

The Berea City School District is excited to announce the formation of the Titan Voices Advisory Board, designed to strengthen collaboration between the district and its community. This board will serve as a diverse group of voices, providing feedback and insights to assist the Superintendent in addressing community priorities and enhancing transparency in decision-making. All meetings will be virtual.

Purpose and Goals:

• Facilitate open dialogue between the district and the community.
• Identify and address district-wide concerns through collaborative problem-solving.
• Strengthen community trust and transparency in the district’s decision-making process.

If you are interested in helping shape the future of our district, we invite you to apply below.

Apply for the Titan Voices Advisory Board

Applications are open until December 1, 2024.

During the month of November, Berea City School District will honor veterans through various school-led initiatives. Planned activities include assemblies and breakfasts where veterans are invited to join, with student performances showcasing appreciation. Additionally, classrooms will participate in projects or lessons focused on the significance of Veterans Day, helping students gain a deeper understanding and respect for veterans' service.

Our district is going to begin using Securly for Parents, and you should receive an email no later than November 8th with instructions.

The Securly Parent Portal gives parents the ability to view online activity outside of the classroom, such as sites browsed, social media use and activity, and items searched. Parents can also set controls outside school hours. We encourage parents to download the Securly Home app. The app will help to safeguard your child’s online activity when devices come home and give you more control.

Please visit our website for more information: https://www.berea.k12.oh.us/departments-services/technology/chromebook-info-parent-help-ticket/securly

Please join us and the Cleveland Clinic School Mental Health Program to discuss three important topics that impact the development and well-being of our children and teens.

Please join us in-person or virtual!

Berea-Midpark Middle School

7000 Paul Drive, Middleburg Heights

Download the complete flyer

We’re thrilled to announce that Berea-Midpark High School teacher Carrie Rice has been recognized as the Outstanding Classroom Teacher of Mathematics by the Greater Cleveland Council of Teachers of Mathematics! This award celebrates her dedication, passion, and exceptional skill in making mathematics engaging and accessible for her students.

Thank you, Mrs. Rice, for inspiring your students every day. We’re so proud to have such an outstanding educator in our district!

The Portrait of a Titan is a collective vision that articulates aspirations for ALL of our students. The Portrait identifies six key competencies that every student in the Berea City School District should possess by the time they graduate. These competencies are nurtured at every grade level. They are adaptable, communicator, critical thinker, empathetic, innovative, and leader. Our educators are inspiring students to cultivate these essential skills.

Berea-Midpark High School hosted its 7th Annual “Immigration: This is My Story” assembly, an inspiring event where students and staff come together to share the journeys that brought their families to the United States.

With stories representing countries like Puerto Rico, Palestine, India, Colombia, Syria, Japan, and Germany, each individual offered a unique perspective while highlighting shared values of courage, resilience, and opportunity.

This assembly remains a powerful experience for students, encouraging meaningful conversations and embodying our Portrait of a Titan competency of empathy. Events like these strengthen our Titan community, celebrating our diverse backgrounds and creating connections built on understanding and kindness.

The grand opening of Berea-Midpark Middle School's Titans Spirit Store, made possible through funding from Berea Kiwanis, GPD, and the Education Foundation, offers students more than Titans gear, snacks, and rewards. It provides a real-world setting where students can redeem their PBIS points and celebrate achievements while stepping into leadership roles.

Student leaders like Store Manager Brianna and Assistant Manager Davion are building essential leadership skills, embodying the Portrait of a Titan competency of Leader. Through managing inventory, assisting peers, and making decisions, they’re learning what it means to take initiative, communicate effectively, and lead by example in their school community.

Earning and redeeming PBIS points also empowers students to make positive choices and celebrate their achievements.

• Berea City Schools, City of Berea, DiGeronimo Companies, Haslam Sports Group and University Hospitals partner on District 46 at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus in Berea

• Berea-Midpark Middle School students learn about Lake Erie at Stone Laboratory: Growing STEM

• Berea City Schools maintains 4-star state report card rating

BCSD uses Peachjar, an electronic flyer posting and distribution system to distribute school flyers and approved flyers from community groups and organizations that sponsor activities of an educational/enrichment nature for students and staff >> view current flyers

The Berea Board of Education holds regular community conversations to give the public access to board members outside of the formal public participation setting of a meeting. Residents will have the opportunity to meet and discuss any concerns they may have with two board members during a 30 minute time-slot set aside prior to each regular scheduled Board of Education meeting. The goal of this effort is to more effectively connect with the public and learn more about the community.

Additional district financial information such as our annual financial reports, forecasts, budget documents, etc., can be found on the district website under the Treasurer's Department page.