Bee Informed

The Bee Informed is a newsletter for Medina City Schools' parents, students and community members in an effort to keep the District informed of important information and events.

After several rounds of interviews that initially included approximately 32 candidates, Superintendent Aaron Sable recommended Elisa Tedona as the next principal of Medina High School and received Board approval during the Monday, May 17 regular meeting of the Board of Education. “I am excited and eager to serve Medina High School and the Medina community. I cannot wait to meet all of the staff, students, parents, and community members,” stated Tedona.

Ms. Tedona has experience in both the classroom at the middle school level and in administrative leadership roles at the middle and high school levels while at the Chesterfield County Public Schools in Virginia and most recently as assistant principal in the Columbus City School District. She will bring a well-rounded variety of experience to Medina City Schools and Medina High School.

Ms. Tedona received her Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Liberal Studies from James Madison University in 2011 and a Master of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Richmond in 2017. She is currently working on her Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Justice Studies with a projected graduation date of August 2021 from Virginia Commonwealth University. Ms. Tedona will replace interim principal Dr. Kristine Quallich. She temporarily filled the position in the spring while continuing her duties as assistant superintendent due to the vacancy when Jeff Harrison was named superintendent of Buckeye Local Schools.

“We are excited to have Ms. Tedona as part of the Medina High School staff. She brings great enthusiasm, experience, and knowledge to the District. We look forward to the next chapter,” said Superintendent, Aaron Sable.

The Medina High School Athletic Department is pleased to announce Jason Rutkowski will be recommended to the Board of Education as the new Varsity girls soccer head coach at the June 21, 2021, regular meeting. Pending the board’s approval, Rutkowski will take the helm and lead the Lady Bees in the 2021 season. He will replace former head coach Brad Wojnarowsky. Medina City Schools Athletic Director, Todd Hodkey, shared, “Coach Rutkowski brings with him the experience, demeanor, and leadership that the committee was looking for in our next Varsity girls soccer head coach.”

Rutkowski will be entering his 17th season coaching at the high school level with his most recent run at North Royalton High School as head Varsity girls soccer coach. His past coaching experience includes head Varsity girls soccer coach at Highland High School for the 2008-2009 seasons and assistant Varsity boys soccer coach at Strongsville for the 2014 season. A familiar face with Medina boys soccer, Rutkowski was an assistant varsity boys soccer coach for the 2005-2007 and the 2010-2013 seasons.

During his time at North Royalton, he was a two-time Suburban League Conference Coach of the Year. Over six seasons, his team won 65 matches and crowned two-time Suburban Conference Champions. While part of the Medina boys coaching staff, they were two-time regional finalists, won the District tournament three times, and took home the conference championship. “Returning to coaching in Medina, my hometown, has always been a thought of mine. I am excited about the opportunity for my family and me to be a part of Medina soccer again. Some of my best memories in my twenty-two years of coaching have been within Medina,” said Rutkowski.

Rutkowski’s coaching style has always been a “player first” approach. “My goal is to provide a positive experience for the players while continuing our (Medina’s) successful tradition. We will look to win on the field, in the classroom, and within the community,” he explained. In addition to his vast coaching experience, Rutkowski currently serves as the Greater Akron Scholastic Soccer Coaches Association (GASSCA) Vice President, North Royalton Soccer Club Trustee, and North Royalton High School Youth Soccer Camp Director. He has also served Board of Directors roles with the American Amateur Soccer League (AASL), Ohio Youth Soccer State Association, Medina Soccer Association, and Brunswick Soccer Association. He also brings to Medina experience coaching at the club level with Team Challenger Footbul Club, Columbus Crew, Jrs., Northern Ohio Elite Soccer Association, Medina Soccer Association, and Brunswick Soccer Association.

“Medina is a fantastic soccer community. ‘The Swarm’ is the best student body around and a school district with a proud tradition of athletic excellence.”

Medina High School junior Donald (Jason) Darrell has been named May Student of the Month. He is described as intelligent, hardworking, mature, and polite. He demonstrates leadership in both victory and defeat. Jason can balance scholastic obligation with his extracurricular activities and is always an excellent representative of Medina High School.

Jason’s class schedule consists of Advance Placement and College Credit Plus courses. He is a member of the National Honor Society, Link Crew, HUDDLE/SHUDDLE, Junior Leadership Medina County, Penguin Bowl/National Ocean Sciences Bowl, and Ohio Math League.

This summer, Jason will be attending American Legion Buckeye Boys State, a hands-on experience in the operation of the democratic form of government and the organization of Ohio political parties. He is a member of Boy Scouts of America, Troop 507, earning his Eagle Scout Award in 2020. He is a former member of the Medina High School Boys Soccer Team. This year, he ran Cross Country and is a three-year member of the Medina High School Track Team. Jason is also a member of the Medina High School Symphonic Band playing Baritone Saxophone, a two-year member of Stardusters, and a two-year member of the Encore Pit Band. In his spare time, he volunteers at First Baptist Church vacation bible school and various Boy Scout community service projects.

Jason will be applying to West Point Military Academy and has qualified for the Summer Leader Experience: Cadet Life at West Point. He plans to major in biochemistry/pre-med and hopes to pursue Track and Field at the United States Military Academy. He is the son of Jason and Gretchen Darrell.

On Tuesday, May 18, Medina High Schools seniors were recognized during this year's senior awards assembly in the Performing Arts Center. This year's seniors were awarded more than $5.8 million in scholarships. To view the presentation, click here.

Medina High School seniors enjoyed an evening at the Parthenon at the high school on Saturday, May 15. Thank you to the student council for planning a great event and the After Prom Committee and the many volunteers for planning and providing the students with a safe and fun option to continue the fun.

On Saturday, May 22 at 11:00 AM, the Class of 2021 had a memorable graduation at Medina High School in Ken Dukes Stadium. The class of approximately 539 was addressed by classmates Mitchell Harold and Zoie Pettitto. "This has been a memorable experience for the students to graduate on their home turf. We are looking forward to the possibility of making this the new normal," said Superintendent Aaron Sable. The ceremony can be seen on YouTube. Congratulations Class of 2021!

On Monday, May 17, 2021, the Department of Pupil Services honored Medina High School language arts teacher Anne Fortney as the 2020-2021 Inclusion Teacher of the Year.

This award is given annually to a general education teacher who provides exemplary service to students with disabilities in his or her classroom. Anne, nominated by Kelly Miller, intervention specialist, co-teaches alongside Anne in the classroom. In her nomination, Kelly describes Anne as “welcoming to all, giving each student an equal opportunity to learn. Anne’s willingness to help students and sharing teaching responsibilities with her co-teacher Anne is the ideal educator and coworker. Anne recognizes student strengths and weaknesses and takes the time to individualize her teaching. She thoughtfully plans lessons that include best practices and rigorous expectations while carefully considering students’ needs. Anne embodies all of the qualities of an exemplary inclusion teacher; dedicated, hardworking, and supportive.”

Pictured below are:

From left to right: Katie Hartung, coordinator of special education, Anne Fortney, Kelly Miller, Ronda French, assistant director of pupil services, and Mine Pazitka, director of pupil services

The Kiwanis Club recently held a writing contest with the prompt of "What Does Peace Mean?". Two 5th grade MODA students won the first-place prize of $100.

Bryce Young and Kelsey Imars were honored during a ceremony on May 12 where the Medina Peace Stone was placed at Jump Park.

Food distribution will continue through the 2020-2021 school year. Distribution will not take place during the summer months. Meals are free to all children ages 1-18 and include one breakfast and one lunch per day. Click here for ordering information and pick-up times and locations.

The Intradistrict Open Enrollment Option is still available to all Medina City Schools’ students who wish to attend an elementary or middle school other than the one they are assigned within the school district during the 2021-2022 school year. This option is based on enrollment numbers, as well as space and staff availability. Class assignments are made only to those grades that are at the District class size less one.

Intradistrict Open Enrollment requests are now available on the Medina City Schools website at http://www.medinabees.org by clicking on the Student Registration tab in the green bar at the top of the website then click on the link to Intradistrict Open Enrollment. Requests will be accepted via online submission through Saturday, May 29, 2021, for the 2021-2022 school year. Parents will be notified in writing of their child’s acceptance/non-acceptance no later than the second week of August 2021. Assignments may be revoked in reverse order of date received (last in, first out) if enrollment figures no longer allow for additional classroom space.

Parents whose children are approved for this Intradistrict Open Enrollment Option are responsible for transporting their own children to and from the school.

As a matter of information, Medina City Schools does not allow students from other school districts to enroll in the Medina City School District under the Intradistrict Open Enrollment Option. However, Medina City Schools does allow students to leave the District to attend another district.

For more information, please contact the Office of Registration at 330-636-3100 or email at rottingl@medinabees.org.

The Medina PACE (Parents for Academic Challenge and Enrichment) Team annually seeks to recognize teachers for their outstanding contribution and investment in gifted students within and beyond the school day. PACE Award winners get to know students to encourage each one to excel. These individuals also take the initiative to grow and develop programs to challenge and inspire our students. Written nominations for this award are accepted from any parent or student in the District.

This year’s recipients are band director Jason Locher and assistant band directors Margaret Blasko and Megan Snide. Shayna Samosky, coordinator of gifted services, and Deb Chester, president of PACE presented the award sharing these comments, “This year’s nominee represents himself and his department in an exemplary manner. He and his assistants work tirelessly to bring out the best in each student. They dedicate long hours and seemingly are never finished with all of their duties and extracurricular involvement. You will see them at every fundraiser, at every competition, supporting their students.

Their expectations are high and students rise to meet them as they know these teachers are spurring them to success. In constant work mode, these individuals labor in the heat, the cold, long days, and sometimes longer evenings and weekends. Even during the pandemic, they made the best of a difficult situation, going above and beyond to provide a safe opportunity for students to participate. Their dedication is unmatched in reaching the whole child; education must always be inclusive of the arts and never underestimate the power of students’ lives. Our musically talented students here in Medina have been nurtured with passion, kindness and encouragement under their direction.”

Pictured below are:

From left to right: PACE president, Deb Chester, assistant band director, Megan Snide, band director, Jason Locher, assistant band director, Margaret Blasko, and coordinator of gift services, Shayna Samosky

Monday, June 7, 2021

Board of Education Work Session

6:00 PM-Medina High School/Professional Development Center

Monday, June 21, 2021

Board of Education Regular Meeting

6:00 PM-Medina High School/Professional Development Center

The Board of Education meetings will be held at Medina High School in the Professional Development Center and will be open to the public. Meetings may also be viewed live on Medina City Schools' YouTube channel and Armstrong channel 201.

Replays of the meeting will also be available on Medina City Schools' YouTube Channel and Armstrong Channel 201.

Medina City Schools is proud to announce that Mason Harper, Assistant Athletic Director, has successfully completed the Leadership Medina County LEAD Institute. Congratulations on your accomplishment.

On Wednesday, March 10th, 2021, Medina High School Latin students took the 44th Annual National Latin Exam. Over 88,000 students took this exam which the American Classical League sponsors. The exam is administered internationally in a total of twenty different countries, including such nations as Australia, Belize, Canada, China, France, Germany, Ghana, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Spain, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Zimbabwe.

Students can earn various levels of awards based on their achievement on the exam. The questions are selected from several different curricula and include questions about Latin Grammar, Roman Life, Roman History, Vocabulary and Derivatives, and Reading Comprehension.

This year, Medina students brought home 29 awards of Cum Laude or higher. An additional three students attained an Honorable Mention (missing Cum Laude by one point). The following students will receive certificates and medals for Gold and Silver and certificates at all other levels.

Gold Summa Cum Laude Brandon Schramm (AP Latin IV), Abbi Acurio (Latin III), William Kissner (Latin III), Sydney Kindrat (Latin III), and Elizabeth Toth (Latin III).

Silver Maxima Cum Laude Rachel Harris (AP Latin IV); Otto Weight (AP Latin IV); Alexander Brenneman (AP Latin IV), Abigail Hovorka (Latin III), Spencer Berry (Latin III), Zachary Bohmer (Latin III), Caleb Nedoma (Latin III), Marina Halkiadakis (Latin II).

Magna Cum Laude Anna Fletcher (AP Latin IV), Lilly Sency (AP Latin IV), Maxwell Gabrielsen (Latin III), Catherine Bechen (Latin III), Harrison Mancini (Latin III), Nailah Williams (Latin III), Emma Nemerovsky (Latin III), Kylie Hosey (Latin II), Jordan Hawkins (Latin II), and Isabelle Oehler (Latin I).

Cum Laude William Hach (AP Latin IV), Elijah Schmeller (AP Latin IV), Thomas Furey (AP Latin IV), Abigayle Trombley (Latin III), and Andrew Altiere (Latin II). Honorable Mention Kaitlyn Pierce (Latin III), Noah Banner (Latin I), and Zachary Kurt (Latin I).

Gratulationes, Discipuli! (Congratulations, Students) Optime! (Very well done!)

The Free Clinic of Medina County is offering FREE physicals through the free youth physical exam program. For more information, please see the flyer to the left.

Medina City Schools Transportation Department is offering equipment for sale. To view the details, please visit https://medinabees.org and go to Announcements on the front page. Bids are due on or before 12:00 PM local time on Friday, May 28, 2021. Late bids will not be accepted. Successful bidders will be notified by phone.

Be sure to check Flyer Central to see what's happening around our community from youth sports programs to other community events.

The following camps are still taking registrations. Click on the links for additional information.

Tennis Camp

Girls Lacrosse

Girls Lacrosse Camp Registration

Medina Girls Basketball Middle School Clinics: 7th & 8th Graders

Boys Soccer Youth Camp

Medina Girls Basketball Youth Camp: Grades 3-6

Medina Boys Basketball Skills Camp: Grades K-6

Medina Boys Middle School Basketball Camp: Grades 7-8

Medina Girls Volleyball Skills Camp: Grades 4-8

Medina Gold Track: Ages 10-17

On Friday, April 30, 2021, Medina High School Student Council hosted a Middle School Leadership Workshop for over 60 leaders from Medina High School and Claggett Middle Student Councils. High school members Rowan McDonald, Mitchell Herold, and Lexi Davis- Romine helped organize the event, lead the large group in energizers, team-building activities, and discussions.

The following Leadership Labs filled the evening:

Lab 1 – Goal Setting: Going for the “Goal-d” Discussion leaders: Ella DiCola, Delaney Fogle

Lab 2 – Taking Positive Risks: No Risk, No Reward Discussion leaders: Kiley Ehlers, Paul Ceccoli

Lab 3 – Communication: Communication Station Discussion leaders: Carissa Hodoba, Ella Spangler, Katie Sunday

Lab 4 – Time Management: Tick Tock on the Clock Discussion leaders: Lexi Davis-Romine, Emma Spangler

Lab 5 – Teamwork: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work Discussion leaders: Alex Henry, Bryn Heath

Lab 6 – Confidence: What’s Wrong with Being Confident?

Discussion leaders: Kaitlyn Pierce, Olivia Hartman, Brian Kerrigan

Student Council advisors Mrs. Calaiacovo, Mrs. Komar, Dr. Brantner, Mrs. Marsala, and Mrs. Gabrielsen worked hard to bring this event together to create a memorable evening for all of the young leaders.

Check out the upcoming Camp Invention program

https://www.invent.org/programs/camp-invention

Congratulations to Brandon Schramm, named Mr. Medina 2021.

The Summer Reinforcement Program is getting ready to enter its 47th year. This classroom setting tutoring program is open to any child in Medina County with an emphasis on math and reading. For more information on the program, please click here.

Recognizing the importance of musical theater and arts education in Northeast Ohio high schools, Playhouse Square proudly has hosted the Dazzle Awards presented by Pat and John Chapman since 2015. Although COVID-19 forced the cancellation of last year’s awards ceremony, Playhouse Square was determined to find a way to hold the program this year.

“So many of us have been missing that connective power of the arts this past year,” said Daniel Hahn, Vice President of Community Engagement & Education at Playhouse Square. “We committed to continuing to serve our Dazzle Awards schools with educational opportunities and helping students to grow their skills. Like many other organizations and programs, we made the pivot to online offerings. Though it is certainly not the same as being together in person, I am so proud of the work the students and their directors have done this year.”

Throughout the 2020-21 program, Playhouse Square offered students of participating schools 12 master classes and three panel discussions with Broadway professionals and three audition workshops, all online. The culminating awards ceremony will be a virtual broadcast on Tuesday, June 1 at 7 p.m.

Not every participating school was able to produce a full musical, so out of the 15 typical categories, only the Best Actor and Best Actress Dazzle Awards will be given this year. The Best Actor and Best Actress will represent Northeast Ohio at The Jimmy Awards®/The National High School Musical Theatre Awards® this summer.

The 2021 Dazzle Award Nominees:

Best Actor

Daniel Blum, Mayfield High School

Tyler DiFranco, Midview High School

Anthony Ghali, Lutheran High School West

Wilson Ha, Hawken School

Mason Kacmar, Aurora High School

Connor McFalls, The Akron School for the Arts at Firestone CLC

Emmanuel Stewart, Thomas W. Harvey High School

Best Actress

Lauren Claxton, Wadsworth High School

Gabrielle Ilg, Medina High School

Eve Jursinski, Saint Joseph Academy

Katie Kapp, Orange High School

Aalliyah Plass, Eastlake North High School

Hannah Tramonte, Highland High School

Calista Zajac, Magnificat High School

Tickets for the June 1 Dazzle Awards virtual broadcast are $10 and are available online at playhousesquare.org or by calling 216-241-6000.

Area high school seniors were recognized at the Medina County Share Cluster’s annual breakfast award celebration held Friday, April 23 at Williams on the Lake.

Medina County Commissioners Steve Hambley, Colleen Swedyk, and Bill Hutson attended the celebration to present each student with a Resolution of Commendation for being chosen as an Outstanding Senior by the Medina County Share Cluster for 2021. The following 16 students were recognized as Outstanding Seniors:

• Emmit Kolowski and Carly England, Black River High School
• Angela Case and Margaret McGinnis, Brunswick High School
• Matthew Baumiller and Lilly Porta, Buckeye High School
• Colton Sadowski and Colette Laughlin, Cloverleaf High School
• Molly Stillwagon and Chase Marquis, Highland High School
• Emily Watkins and Collin Kalina, Medina County Career Center
• Rowan McDonald and Weston Mansier, Medina High School
• Alexander Miller and Cara Griffin, Wadsworth High School

Outstanding seniors are selected from high school seniors who demonstrate an ability to excel in many pursuits and have set a commendable example for others to follow. Their accomplishments as advocates and role models for tobacco, alcohol, and drug abuse prevention are a justifiable source of pride and an excellent reflection on their families, schools, and the county.

The Medina County Share Cluster Organization consists of members including representatives from all Medina County school districts as well as many other nonprofit and community agencies in the county who are committed to improving the lives of youth. The mission of the Medina County Share Cluster is to enhance the lives of Medina County youth through collaborative efforts designed to promote non-violent, drug-free living. Share Cluster activities each year are funded and supported by the Medina County ADAMH Board.

In order to help support our students after the learning disruptions over the past year and a half due to the pandemic, Medina City Schools has organized multiple opportunities for students to keep their skills sharp over the summer. The District will offer organized summer schools and independent practice students can do free of charge to all of our District families. For details and registration information, please click here.

The transition to kindergarten is an important milestone for your child and family. The Department of Instruction, the elementary principals, and kindergarten teachers have put together a variety of resources and ideas that can be incorporated into everyday routines to continue to support your child as they prepare to start kindergarten. To view the latest information, please visit the Get Ready for Kindergarten website that is located on the Department of Instruction page. We look forward to welcoming your child to our Medina City Schools Community.

Medina City Schools' online student enrollment for the 2021-2022 school year is now open. Please visit https://www.medinabees.org/Page/1851 for information on how to enroll your student.

Website: https://www.medinabees.org/Page/1851
Location: 739 Weymouth Road, Medina, OH, USA
Phone: 330.636.3100

Medina High School junior Elizabeth High recently had the opportunity to shadow Medina County Commissioner, Colleen Swedyk. "I had an amazing experience shadowing Medina County Commissioner, Colleen Swedyk! During my eight weeks, I was able to watch every Commissioners’ meeting, virtually or in person, tour many government offices, and learn about each role of Medina County’s government. I was also able to complete the training to become certified in Sunshine Laws.

At the Administration Building, I was able to meet countless members of government each week. I had the opportunity to meet all three Medina County Commissioners, as well as the Medina County Recorder, Auditor, and Treasurer. I was also able to visit the planning department, the finance department, the print shop, the human resources department, and tax maps. The employees of each department explained to me what their role in local government was, and many of them also gave me a tour of their department. I was able to gain insight into each department and learn about how important each department is in keeping our County running. We also visited many departments outside of the Administration Building. We toured the Courthouse, the Prosecutor’s Office, the County Home, the Office for Older Adults, Transit, and many more government buildings. At each of these buildings, I was able to get a better understanding of the impact that the departments have on Medina County. My favorite part about touring these buildings was getting to listen to the people that work in these buildings, and seeing how even the smallest jobs can have an enormous effect on our community. I also loved getting to see how the departments function and see how they are currently helping the citizens of Medina County. Overall, I had an incredible time shadowing at the Commissioners’ Office. I learned a lot about local government, and feel that it will help me greatly as I prepare for my senior year and college in the future. I am so grateful for this wonderful opportunity," Elizabeth shared.

Want Medina City Schools information right at your finger tips? Download the mobile app available on the Apple Store and Google Play.

Medina City Schools has immediate openings for bus drivers. For more information, please call 330.636.4360.

Great things continue to happen in the Hive. The Medina Athletic Boosters has secured two more sponsors for the Soccer Scoreboard at Memorial Stadium. Thank you to National Design Mart and Landry Dentistry for becoming Champions of Medina and adding your businesses to the Medina Athletics family.

The Boosters have also brought a new fundraising opportunity to the fans of our student-athletes at Jo Jo’s Sports Grille & Dominic’s at 221 South Jefferson Street. We’ve introduced a new pull-tab game system which allows patrons to win prizes, which can be found near the front of the establishment. All the proceeds from the game go to benefit Medina’s student-athletes and the Medina Athletic Department in the purchasing of new uniforms, equipment, and scholarships. Please stop by Jo Jo’s Sports Grille & Dominic’s and support our Bees.

Congratulations and thank you to our Boosters Executive Board and committee chairs who won re-election or were re-appointed at May’s Boosters Meeting:

• President – Tom Delac
• VP/Sponsorship – Crell Johns
• VP/Membership – Dawn Allar
• Secretary – Daniella Hensley
• Treasurer – Mary Lynn Shingle
• Concessions – Autumn Giddens
• PCA Chairman – Jim Smigel
• Communications – Ron Glasenapp

If you would like to help the Boosters in any of our committees, please contact any Boosters board members or send a note to boosters@medinabees.org.

Email: busbya@medinabees.org
Website: www.medinabees.org
Location: 739 Weymouth Road, Medina, OH, USA
Phone: 330.725.8831
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedinaCitySchools
Twitter: @MCScomm1