The Panther Post

As we enter the final quarter of the school year, we are reminded what makes Miami Trace a special place - the people! The genuine care individuals show for one another and the meaningful opportunities created for students set Panther Nation apart from other districts. The emphasis on relationships and opportunities is not just language in the mission statement; it is something our entire school community lives out each day.

When we strive for excellence in serving our students and families, we prioritize healthy relationships and authentic engagement among all stakeholders. It is through these connections that doors open, experiences expand, and students grow not only academically but as people!

We hope you enjoy viewing Panthers in Pictures as they represent this sense of togetherness built at MT!

High school students present elective opportunities to next year’s incoming freshman class, helping them see the many opportunities and pathways available to them.

Through the Ohio Optometric Association, the iSee program supports many of our students by providing full eye exams and glasses, helping remove barriers and expand opportunities for success.

Construction Trades students have many opportunities throughout their time in the program to explore career pathways and network with potential future employers.

Throughout their time at Miami Trace, Panthers have many opportunities to participate in unique and enriching experiences. For MTES students, the annual visit from the Columbus Zoo is always a highlight.

Eighth graders spend the day at Laurel Oaks exploring a wide range of programs and discovering career paths they may not have considered before.

High school students can intern with staff members across campus, gaining hands-on experience aligned with their interests and potential career paths. As part of this program, communications interns helped facilitate the district-wide Safe Streets Safe Schools campaign.

The Big Panther Little Panther program fosters connection and growth across the district by bringing together high school and elementary students to support learning.

Miami Trace teachers continue to create opportunities that encourage student growth both in and out of the classroom. The sixth-grade reading fluency challenge inspired students to read more at home while also spending meaningful time with family, friends, and even pets.

Each year, our 5th graders participate in Junior Achievement of Central Ohio’s BizTown, an immersive experience where they step into the roles of business owners, bankers, elected officials, and employees for a day of real-world learning.

Sarah Easter Strayer, Class of 1999

Colonel | United States Army Veterinary Corps

Assistant Deputy for Health Affairs | Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs

I am an action officer for medical and health policies in the US Army. My focus is primarily on veterinary medicine and public health, though I often support other health affairs efforts.

What would you like to share about your life and journey since graduating from Miami Trace?

I quickly learned that life’s path is rarely a straight line. Through personal loss and career-defining transitions, I learned to be resilient, flexible, and to trust God’s plan, especially when it conflicted with my own.

What is one personal or professional achievement you are most proud of since graduating from Miami Trace?

If you had told my high school self that I would one day serve as a Colonel in the US Army, I wouldn’t have believed it. My proudest professional achievement is realizing that, with the support of my faith and loved ones, I have achieved things I never even dared to consider. Personally, I am most proud of the life my husband and I have built together. For over 20 years, Grant has kept me grounded through life's challenges.

What is your favorite memory from your time at Miami Trace?

I cherish the community and work ethic of Fayette County and Miami Trace. I owe a debt of gratitude to Miss Sollars for honing my logical thinking, Señorita Andrews for awakening my love of cultures, and Mr. Glass for encouraging my creative drive through choir and musicals. These mentors and my time at Miami Trace provided the grounded foundation I needed before stepping out into the world.

What advice would you give to current Miami Trace students as they prepare for their future?

Trust the foundation you’ve built here at MTHS. Find mentors who are successful in your areas of interest, ask them questions, and really listen. Most importantly, dare to say yes to the unexpected.

Improvements to the Registration Process

Registration for the 2026–27 school year is officially open for ALL students!

At Miami Trace, we continually evaluate our processes to improve efficiency and enhance families' experiences. Please review the following updates to registration:

Open Enrollment Applications are now available online through our website. Paper applications will no longer be accepted or mailed to current open-enrolled families.
The Open Enrollment window has been extended to May 31.
After submitting the Open Enrollment Application, parents/guardians must also complete FinalForms registration by May 31.
Registration for current students will open earlier this year and must be completed by July 17.
Student schedules (grades 1–12) will be available in ProgressBook on July 20 for students whose FinalForms registration is complete.

Whether you’re enrolling a new Kindergartener, applying for Open Enrollment, or registering a new or returning student, you can begin the process on the Miami Trace website!

Kindergarten Registration

March 1 - April 30

Open Enrollment (non-residents)

March 1 - May 31

New & Returning Student Registration

March 1 - July 17

Questions? We're happy to help!

📞 740-335-3010

Following spring break, staff and students will be preparing for end-of-year assessments. Teachers will be wrapping up key lessons and reviewing important skills with students. These assessments include both district and state-level tests. We encourage families to review the Testing Schedules available on the district website.

State of the District Address | 2026

Topics Covered:

New and Evolving Opportunities and Experiences for Miami Trace Students
Community Engagement and Planning for the Future
Miami Trace’s Current Financial Outlook

Brought to you by Fayette County Public Health

March is National Kidney Month — a great time to raise awareness about the important role our kidneys play in keeping us healthy. These hardworking organs help filter waste, regulate blood pressure, balance minerals, and more. We encourage you to review the risk factors and symptoms of kidney disease, and consider talking with your healthcare provider about routine blood and urine tests. Early detection can make a meaningful difference in long-term health.

Infographic containing information about kidney problems, risks, symptoms, and ways to keep it healthy.

If you have any health-related questions or concerns, contact your school clinic to speak with any of our nurses.

Miami Trace Local School District

https://www.miamitrace.k12.oh.us/

3818 State Route 41 NW

Washington Court House, OH
740-335-3010

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