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Dear Parents and Guardians, What a fantastic start we've had to the school year! Our classrooms and hallways are once again buzzing with energy and excitement, and it's wonderful to see our athletic teams in full swing. Our teachers, counselors, and staff have been working diligently to help our seventh graders and students new to Ottawa Hills make a successful and positive transition. It's truly inspiring to witness everyone working together to provide a smooth welcome for our newest members of the Green Bear family. I would also like to provide an update on the changes to our junior high backpack policy. Our goal with this initiative is to help students become well-organized and prepared for the day, transition between classes easily, and develop essential executive functioning skills. I recognize that our initial communication on this change could have been better, and we are working to make sure we meet the needs of all students. One of our top priorities is to make the Foundry a warm and welcoming place where all students can collaborate, get additional support, and feel at home, no matter what their needs are. We are thrilled to see students and staff utilizing this space and look forward to its continued growth as a collaborative center for our school and community. We also want to give a warm welcome to our new math tutors in the Foundry: Deb Drouillard, Randall Johnson, and Sue Bisonette. In addition, our math teachers, Patty Dowd, Joan Keckler, Janelle Fowler, and Jacob Hall, are also available to support students. As a special resource, Mrs. Keckler holds a Math Lab in the morning from 7-8 a.m. on all days but "A" days. For questions about the availability of tutoring, please contact Lead Tutor Jessica Loudermilk via email JLoudermilk@OHSchools.org. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events! Sincerely, Ben McMurray
Principal, Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School |
Dear Parents and Guardians, What a fantastic start we've had to the school year! Our classrooms and hallways are once again buzzing with energy and excitement, and it's wonderful to see our athletic teams in full swing. Our teachers, counselors, and staff have been working diligently to help our seventh graders and students new to Ottawa Hills make a successful and positive transition. It's truly inspiring to witness everyone working together to provide a smooth welcome for our newest members of the Green Bear family. I would also like to provide an update on the changes to our junior high backpack policy. Our goal with this initiative is to help students become well-organized and prepared for the day, transition between classes easily, and develop essential executive functioning skills. I recognize that our initial communication on this change could have been better, and we are working to make sure we meet the needs of all students. One of our top priorities is to make the Foundry a warm and welcoming place where all students can collaborate, get additional support, and feel at home, no matter what their needs are. We are thrilled to see students and staff utilizing this space and look forward to its continued growth as a collaborative center for our school and community. We also want to give a warm welcome to our new math tutors in the Foundry: Deb Drouillard, Randall Johnson, and Sue Bisonette. In addition, our math teachers, Patty Dowd, Joan Keckler, Janelle Fowler, and Jacob Hall, are also available to support students. As a special resource, Mrs. Keckler holds a Math Lab in the morning from 7-8 a.m. on all days but "A" days. For questions about the availability of tutoring, please contact Lead Tutor Jessica Loudermilk via email JLoudermilk@OHSchools.org. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events! Sincerely, Ben McMurray
Principal, Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School |
 | 1. School Photos & Sports Photos Your student will receive a photo card. We highly recommend ordering all school photos and athletic photos together at one time as to avoid multiple shipping charges. Here is how to do that... - Go to ipschoolphotos.com
- click "Find School Photos"
- Enter the code from the card that was sent home with your student
- Choose options and add to cart
- If you have multiple students, then click "View Another Gallery" and repeat process
- If adding sports photos, click "View Another Gallery" and use code "Ottawa Hills"
When are picture retakes? Wednesday, September 24 What about senior portraits? Wednesday, October 15
More details coming soon! |
2. Fall Festival Click here to volunteer and buy tickets! https://ohspa.membershiptoolkit.com/fallfest25 |
2. Fall Festival Click here to volunteer and buy tickets! https://ohspa.membershiptoolkit.com/fallfest25 |
 | 3. Late Start Wednesday, September 17 Students can enter the building at 10:00am. |
4. Newsies Parent Meeting Wednesday, September 3 6:00pm Foundry |
4. Newsies Parent Meeting Wednesday, September 3 6:00pm Foundry |
5. Boys Basketball Meeting Today |
5. Boys Basketball Meeting Today |
Get Involved! Did your student miss involvement day? It it not too late to get involved in clubs or activites. Click here to see a list and who to contact for each extracurricular. Click here to see the whole list:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1c7YPPoI15BWdlX1PWscLOiOWkDl2sAdwBs2L2-HAO_M/edit?usp=sharing |
Get Involved! Did your student miss involvement day? It it not too late to get involved in clubs or activites. Click here to see a list and who to contact for each extracurricular. Click here to see the whole list:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1c7YPPoI15BWdlX1PWscLOiOWkDl2sAdwBs2L2-HAO_M/edit?usp=sharing |
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Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School Earns Prestigious Governor's Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education DUBLIN, OH – Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School is proud to announce it has been selected by The Ohio Academy of Science to receive the Governor's Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education and Student Research for the 2024-2025 school year. Our school is among 76 across Ohio to be recognized for its commitment to stimulating student research and providing valuable experiential learning opportunities that extend beyond the traditional classroom. The award recognizes schools and teachers who meet specific criteria that demonstrate a robust commitment to STEM education. To qualify, a school must have students participate in a local science fair and a Regional Science Day. Additionally, students must engage in at least one other youth science opportunity outside of the classroom. STEM education at Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School is more than just an acronym; it's a philosophy that integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Our curriculum focuses on project-based learning, encouraging students to develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. "We are incredibly proud to receive this award, as it validates our ongoing commitment to excellence in STEM education," said Ben McMurray, Principal of Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School. "Our teachers and students have worked tirelessly to push the boundaries of traditional learning, and this recognition is a testament to their dedication and hard work." A special congratulations to the following teachers who were recognized for their outstanding contributions: Chris Gajewicz, Dan Feuerstein, Diane Drabek, Gerry Davis, Gloria Kreischer-Gajewicz, Jeremy Nixon, Joan Keckler, Kristin Johnson, Michael Leeds, Nicole Silvers, Caitlin Shawaker, Paige Bergsma, Patty Dowd, Paul Genzman, Tim Adkins, and Trevor Hug. The Governor's Thomas Edison Awards were first established in 1985 to honor schools and educators who are preparing students for the future workforce. The program is a partnership with The Ohio Academy of Science, The Office of Technology Investments, and The Ohio Department of Development, and aims to recognize excellence in STEM education and student scientific research. "The brilliant minds in today’s classrooms are laying the groundwork for our state’s future economic success," said Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "We’re deeply grateful to the schools and educators molding these young scientists into the problem-solvers and visionaries who will create a brighter tomorrow across Ohio." Each teacher involved in our award-winning program will receive a complimentary membership to The Ohio Academy of Science in recognition of their efforts. About The Ohio Academy of Science Founded in 1891, The Ohio Academy of Science (OAS) is a membership-based, volunteer-driven, not-for-profit organization. The Academy is the leading organization in Ohio to foster curiosity, discovery, innovation, and problem-solving skills. For more information about the OAS, please visit its website athttp://www.ohiosci.org. |
Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School Earns Prestigious Governor's Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education DUBLIN, OH – Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School is proud to announce it has been selected by The Ohio Academy of Science to receive the Governor's Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education and Student Research for the 2024-2025 school year. Our school is among 76 across Ohio to be recognized for its commitment to stimulating student research and providing valuable experiential learning opportunities that extend beyond the traditional classroom. The award recognizes schools and teachers who meet specific criteria that demonstrate a robust commitment to STEM education. To qualify, a school must have students participate in a local science fair and a Regional Science Day. Additionally, students must engage in at least one other youth science opportunity outside of the classroom. STEM education at Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School is more than just an acronym; it's a philosophy that integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Our curriculum focuses on project-based learning, encouraging students to develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. "We are incredibly proud to receive this award, as it validates our ongoing commitment to excellence in STEM education," said Ben McMurray, Principal of Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School. "Our teachers and students have worked tirelessly to push the boundaries of traditional learning, and this recognition is a testament to their dedication and hard work." A special congratulations to the following teachers who were recognized for their outstanding contributions: Chris Gajewicz, Dan Feuerstein, Diane Drabek, Gerry Davis, Gloria Kreischer-Gajewicz, Jeremy Nixon, Joan Keckler, Kristin Johnson, Michael Leeds, Nicole Silvers, Caitlin Shawaker, Paige Bergsma, Patty Dowd, Paul Genzman, Tim Adkins, and Trevor Hug. The Governor's Thomas Edison Awards were first established in 1985 to honor schools and educators who are preparing students for the future workforce. The program is a partnership with The Ohio Academy of Science, The Office of Technology Investments, and The Ohio Department of Development, and aims to recognize excellence in STEM education and student scientific research. "The brilliant minds in today’s classrooms are laying the groundwork for our state’s future economic success," said Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "We’re deeply grateful to the schools and educators molding these young scientists into the problem-solvers and visionaries who will create a brighter tomorrow across Ohio." Each teacher involved in our award-winning program will receive a complimentary membership to The Ohio Academy of Science in recognition of their efforts. About The Ohio Academy of Science Founded in 1891, The Ohio Academy of Science (OAS) is a membership-based, volunteer-driven, not-for-profit organization. The Academy is the leading organization in Ohio to foster curiosity, discovery, innovation, and problem-solving skills. For more information about the OAS, please visit its website athttp://www.ohiosci.org. |
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New Math Tutor Joins the Foundry Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Debbie Drouillard, our newest math tutor in the Foundry! Ms. Drouillard brings a wealth of experience, having spent more than 20 years as a math teacher and tutor in southeast Michigan. Along with the other math teachers in the Foundry, Ms. Drouillard hopes to assist students in strengthening their math skills, building confidence, and developing effective strategies for tests and quizzes. A graduate of Eastern Michigan University, Ms. Drouillard will be available in the Foundry from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., Monday through Friday. We are thrilled to have her on our team. |
New Math Tutor Joins the Foundry Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Debbie Drouillard, our newest math tutor in the Foundry! Ms. Drouillard brings a wealth of experience, having spent more than 20 years as a math teacher and tutor in southeast Michigan. Along with the other math teachers in the Foundry, Ms. Drouillard hopes to assist students in strengthening their math skills, building confidence, and developing effective strategies for tests and quizzes. A graduate of Eastern Michigan University, Ms. Drouillard will be available in the Foundry from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., Monday through Friday. We are thrilled to have her on our team. |
 | Ottawa Hills Student Honored at International Symposium A huge congratulations to Ottawa Hills seventh grader Bismann Singh for earning the Distinguished Speaker Award at the International Sikh Youth Symposium held this past summer in Bakersfield, California. The international competition features speeches and discussions on Sikh history and its importance to interfaith harmony. Out of over 2,100 contestants from across North America, Bismann was one of just 68 to advance to the final round. “His presentation drew critical acclaim from a panel of judges and was praised by the audience,” according to Kuldeep Singh, President of the Sikh Youth Alliance of North America. Bismann hopes to continue to improve his speech, debate, and critical thinking skills in his courses at Ottawa Hills and perhaps join the OHHS Speech and Debate team. Congratulations, Bismann! |
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Involvement Day 2025 Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School hosted its annual Involvement Day last week, welcoming students to explore a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities. More than 30 official school-sponsored and student-led organizations were on hand to encourage students to sign up and get involved. A full list of the organizations and their faculty advisors can be found on the school website. The event was a great way for students to learn about the many ways they can connect with their peers and community. We look forward to seeing all the great things our students will accomplish this year. Special thanks to all of our advisors, student leaders, and Amanda Neuendorf for helping to coordinate Involvement Day. |
Involvement Day 2025 Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School hosted its annual Involvement Day last week, welcoming students to explore a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities. More than 30 official school-sponsored and student-led organizations were on hand to encourage students to sign up and get involved. A full list of the organizations and their faculty advisors can be found on the school website. The event was a great way for students to learn about the many ways they can connect with their peers and community. We look forward to seeing all the great things our students will accomplish this year. Special thanks to all of our advisors, student leaders, and Amanda Neuendorf for helping to coordinate Involvement Day. |
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Meet Your Student Council and Their Vision for the Year The Student Council executive board includes seniors President Nina Clark, Vice President Trace Douglas, Treasurer Joe Davis, Secretary Karis Connelly, and Sergeant at Arms Piper Downing. Click here to read President Clark’s message to the student body. On opening day, President Clark shared the following with students: “That’s something I hope we all remember this year—to be intentional with our time. School can be more than something you just survive. If we are truly present—whether it's in the classroom, in the hallway, at practices, performances, games, or at lunch—if we do that, we can walk away from this experience knowing that we gave it our best shot.” Looking forward to seeing the positive impact our Student Council will make on our school climate and culture. |
Meet Your Student Council and Their Vision for the Year The Student Council executive board includes seniors President Nina Clark, Vice President Trace Douglas, Treasurer Joe Davis, Secretary Karis Connelly, and Sergeant at Arms Piper Downing. Click here to read President Clark’s message to the student body. On opening day, President Clark shared the following with students: “That’s something I hope we all remember this year—to be intentional with our time. School can be more than something you just survive. If we are truly present—whether it's in the classroom, in the hallway, at practices, performances, games, or at lunch—if we do that, we can walk away from this experience knowing that we gave it our best shot.” Looking forward to seeing the positive impact our Student Council will make on our school climate and culture. |
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The World’s at Our Fingertips! A Message from Your Senior Leaders The senior class is led by President Emma Friedman, Vice-President Josef Duley, Secretary Sahil Parikh, Treasurer Emily Timmerman, and Senators Sharon Lim and Joan Seo. With 81 members as of September 1, the senior class has chosen "Class of 26, The World’s at Our Fingertips!" as their motto. To the seniors, Emma shared, “I am beyond excited to spend this year with each and every one of you. We have the power to make it the best year yet. I want to hear all our ideas, and we have created a system that will help us do that! The senior planning committee will be open to anybody. Bring your ideas, your dreams for this year, and let’s make it happen. Details are coming soon, so keep an eye out if you are interested.” |
The World’s at Our Fingertips! A Message from Your Senior Leaders The senior class is led by President Emma Friedman, Vice-President Josef Duley, Secretary Sahil Parikh, Treasurer Emily Timmerman, and Senators Sharon Lim and Joan Seo. With 81 members as of September 1, the senior class has chosen "Class of 26, The World’s at Our Fingertips!" as their motto. To the seniors, Emma shared, “I am beyond excited to spend this year with each and every one of you. We have the power to make it the best year yet. I want to hear all our ideas, and we have created a system that will help us do that! The senior planning committee will be open to anybody. Bring your ideas, your dreams for this year, and let’s make it happen. Details are coming soon, so keep an eye out if you are interested.” |
 | Ottawa Hills Senior Quinton Smith Achieves Perfect ACT Score Senior Quinton Smith has achieved a perfect score on the ACT, a truly remarkable accomplishment. This achievement is a testament not only to his intellectual curiosity and hard work, but also to the guidance of the dedicated teachers who have nurtured his talent. In addition to his academic pursuits, Quinton is a proud member of the XC and Track and Field teams, Model United Nations, and is collaborating with the Foundry staff to assist with our peer tutoring program.
Please join us in congratulating Quinton. We celebrate his incredible persistence and intellect and look forward to his continued success. |
Save the Date
Tuesday, September 2: OHSPA Hot Lunches Begin Friday, September 19: Distinguished Alumni & Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Saturday, September 20: Fall Festival Wednesday, September 24: Picture Retakes Wednesday, October 8 : Testing Day: EARLY RELEASE Friday, October 10: Village Life Parade Saturday, October 11: Homecoming Wednesday, October 15: Senior Portraits Sunday, October 19: Fall Collage Concert Wednesday, October 22: Early Release Thursday & Friday, October 23-24: Parents/Teacher Conferences: NO SCHOOL Tuesday, November 4: No School-Voting Day |
Save the Date
Tuesday, September 2: OHSPA Hot Lunches Begin Friday, September 19: Distinguished Alumni & Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Saturday, September 20: Fall Festival Wednesday, September 24: Picture Retakes Wednesday, October 8 : Testing Day: EARLY RELEASE Friday, October 10: Village Life Parade Saturday, October 11: Homecoming Wednesday, October 15: Senior Portraits Sunday, October 19: Fall Collage Concert Wednesday, October 22: Early Release Thursday & Friday, October 23-24: Parents/Teacher Conferences: NO SCHOOL Tuesday, November 4: No School-Voting Day |
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