Attendance Reminders: With winter break approaching, we would like to take a moment to remind everyone about the importance of regular school attendance. When students are consistently present and on time to class, they are more likely to stay engaged, perform well academically, and build strong connections with their peers and teachers. Here are a few key reminders: - Email jhhsattendance@ohschools.org if your child is absent or leaving early for an appointment.
- For any students leaving during the school day, they must check in and out of the main office.
- Excessive unexcused absences or tardies may lead to academic challenges and potential attendance interventions.
- If your family has a pre-planned trip or sporting event, please email the attendance line to request a permissible absence form at least FIVE DAYS in advance so we can work together to ensure your student stays on track.
|
Attendance Reminders: With winter break approaching, we would like to take a moment to remind everyone about the importance of regular school attendance. When students are consistently present and on time to class, they are more likely to stay engaged, perform well academically, and build strong connections with their peers and teachers. Here are a few key reminders: - Email jhhsattendance@ohschools.org if your child is absent or leaving early for an appointment.
- For any students leaving during the school day, they must check in and out of the main office.
- Excessive unexcused absences or tardies may lead to academic challenges and potential attendance interventions.
- If your family has a pre-planned trip or sporting event, please email the attendance line to request a permissible absence form at least FIVE DAYS in advance so we can work together to ensure your student stays on track.
|
 | THANKSGIVING DAY RUN 2025
Please come out on Thanksgiving Day – Thursday, November 27th - at 9:00 AM for the 10th Annual Thanksgiving Day Meadow Fun Run. If you’ve joined before, it is the same course and same start/finish this year. If you have not, please check out the map.
Meg Walter, Villager and Owner of Kickback Coffee, has again offered to serve up a complimentary full coffee/drink menu to all runners. Meg’s Kickback Truck will be parked on Brookside from 8:30 – 10:30 for you to warm up before or after the run. The course will be marked out with orange painted arrows as in years past. If you get lost, just head back to the sledding hill for some coffee!
DETAILS:
Distance is approximately 5K.
Start time is 9:00 AM.
Start/Finish – Service Entry to the meadow on Brookside Rd. between Talmadge & Evergreen (SLEDDING HILL)
This is a non-sanctioned, unofficial, non-documented, untimed, wear your back up shoes, run-at-your-own-risk, fun “race” through the meadow. Runners/walkers of all ages/speeds welcome. |
 | Thanksgiving Break No School: Wednesday, November 26-Friday, November 28 |
8 Period Days: December 1-4 (Monday-Thursday) |
8 Period Days: December 1-4 (Monday-Thursday) |
Thank you for your flexibility and partnership as we continue this important work to find the best possible structure for our students' academic success. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding this trial, please feel free to reach out to me or the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, Dr. Bill Miller. Click here for more information. |
Thank you for your flexibility and partnership as we continue this important work to find the best possible structure for our students' academic success. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding this trial, please feel free to reach out to me or the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, Dr. Bill Miller. Click here for more information. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Bravo to the Cast and Crew of Little Shop of Horrors. Photos by Yarko Kuk
Congratulations to the talented cast and crew for delivering an outstanding production, featuring exceptional performances by dozens of high school students.
A huge thank you to Director Grace Wipfli, Music Director Hayley Hoss, Producer Darrin Broadway, and Choreographer Havin Hoobler for their incredible leadership and dedication. Special recognition goes to Set Designer Daniel Tobias, Technical Director Ace Medina, and Costume Designer Erica Kelm for their creative contributions. Additional thanks to Lighting Designer Claire Hawkins, Ticket Coordinator Joy Hajjar, Sound Designers Henry Lenahan and Eddie Phillips, and the amazing crew of parent volunteers who supported the show. We are grateful to our sponsors—Ottawa Hills Music Theater Association, OH Schools Foundation, Effler Schmitt Co., OHMTA, BAZ Group, Frankel Dentistry, Poco Piatti, The Beirut, Byblos, The Garden, Hannon’s Block, Venture Visionary Partners, Superior Credit Union, Pro-Pak Industries, and Jamieson Audio/Video for their generous support. A special thanks to OHMTA and our patrons for their ongoing support for our theater arts program and to the dozens of parent and student volunteers who helped make this production a resounding success. Bravo! |
Bravo to the Cast and Crew of Little Shop of Horrors. Photos by Yarko Kuk
Congratulations to the talented cast and crew for delivering an outstanding production, featuring exceptional performances by dozens of high school students.
A huge thank you to Director Grace Wipfli, Music Director Hayley Hoss, Producer Darrin Broadway, and Choreographer Havin Hoobler for their incredible leadership and dedication. Special recognition goes to Set Designer Daniel Tobias, Technical Director Ace Medina, and Costume Designer Erica Kelm for their creative contributions. Additional thanks to Lighting Designer Claire Hawkins, Ticket Coordinator Joy Hajjar, Sound Designers Henry Lenahan and Eddie Phillips, and the amazing crew of parent volunteers who supported the show. We are grateful to our sponsors—Ottawa Hills Music Theater Association, OH Schools Foundation, Effler Schmitt Co., OHMTA, BAZ Group, Frankel Dentistry, Poco Piatti, The Beirut, Byblos, The Garden, Hannon’s Block, Venture Visionary Partners, Superior Credit Union, Pro-Pak Industries, and Jamieson Audio/Video for their generous support. A special thanks to OHMTA and our patrons for their ongoing support for our theater arts program and to the dozens of parent and student volunteers who helped make this production a resounding success. Bravo! |
 |
8th Grade Class visit Washington, D.C.
This past week eighth graders visited Washington DC, saw monuments that commemorate our history, and made lifelong memories with friends and teachers. Traveling around the city the group visited the three branches of government with stops at Capitol Building, the Supreme Court (tour), and the White House. They learned about key moments in history with visits to the U.S. Holocaust Museum, American History Museum, Natural History Museum, Museum of African American History, Lincoln Memorial, the MLK Jr. Memorial, FDR Memorial, Korean Memorial, World War II Memorial, Airforce Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Women’s Memorial, US Marine Corps Memorial (Iwo Jima), and the Pentagon 9/11 Memorial. They had fun visiting the interactive Spy Museum, attended Ford’s Theater, and participated in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery. Mrs. Palko shares, “It’s wonderful to see our students make connections between the Capitol and the classroom. Our jam-packed itinerary enabled students to see so many historical sites, museums, and memorials, as well as deepen their understanding of our representative democracy, the political process, and our country’s history.” On the way home, the 8th graders visited the Gettysburg National Battlefield and museum, as well as the Shanksville, PA 9/11 Memorial. Special thanks to trip organizers Cheri Palko and chaperones Dylan Bush, Paul Genzman, Janelle Fowler, and Jessica Loudermilk. |
8th Grade Class visit Washington, D.C.
This past week eighth graders visited Washington DC, saw monuments that commemorate our history, and made lifelong memories with friends and teachers. Traveling around the city the group visited the three branches of government with stops at Capitol Building, the Supreme Court (tour), and the White House. They learned about key moments in history with visits to the U.S. Holocaust Museum, American History Museum, Natural History Museum, Museum of African American History, Lincoln Memorial, the MLK Jr. Memorial, FDR Memorial, Korean Memorial, World War II Memorial, Airforce Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Women’s Memorial, US Marine Corps Memorial (Iwo Jima), and the Pentagon 9/11 Memorial. They had fun visiting the interactive Spy Museum, attended Ford’s Theater, and participated in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery. Mrs. Palko shares, “It’s wonderful to see our students make connections between the Capitol and the classroom. Our jam-packed itinerary enabled students to see so many historical sites, museums, and memorials, as well as deepen their understanding of our representative democracy, the political process, and our country’s history.” On the way home, the 8th graders visited the Gettysburg National Battlefield and museum, as well as the Shanksville, PA 9/11 Memorial. Special thanks to trip organizers Cheri Palko and chaperones Dylan Bush, Paul Genzman, Janelle Fowler, and Jessica Loudermilk. |
 |
OHHS Students Sign Up to Fight Blood Cancer: Meet Our Student Visionaries!
Last week Blood Cancer United (formerly LLS) recently held their annual Student Visionaries of the Year National Signing Day! Ottawa Hills High School is proudly represented in the Northwest Ohio Student Visionaries of the Year program by Olivia Stumbo and Ellis Carter. Allison Boesel, advisor Campaign Development Manager, shares, “They join a legacy of students from our community who have taken on this challenging and rewarding effort. In a short amount of time, Olivia and Ellis have already demonstrated incredible drive, motivation, and a bold commitment to making a difference. They have set ambitious goals for themselves and their team, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish over the next few months.” To help them succeed, Olivia and Ellis will be mentored by Allison Boesel from Blood Cancer United and past OHHS Student Visionaries. In a special feature this year, Forbes magazine ran a digital article about the program, announcing all the committed candidates, including Ottawa Hills’ own Olivia and Ellis! You can check out the full feature and share it with the school community here: Forbes article: When Teens Fundraise to End Blood Cancer, They Change Lives—Including Their Own Stay tuned for more information on how you can support their campaign! Wishing Ellis and Olivia all the best! Thanks for all you do to fight blood cancer. |
OHHS Students Sign Up to Fight Blood Cancer: Meet Our Student Visionaries!
Last week Blood Cancer United (formerly LLS) recently held their annual Student Visionaries of the Year National Signing Day! Ottawa Hills High School is proudly represented in the Northwest Ohio Student Visionaries of the Year program by Olivia Stumbo and Ellis Carter. Allison Boesel, advisor Campaign Development Manager, shares, “They join a legacy of students from our community who have taken on this challenging and rewarding effort. In a short amount of time, Olivia and Ellis have already demonstrated incredible drive, motivation, and a bold commitment to making a difference. They have set ambitious goals for themselves and their team, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish over the next few months.” To help them succeed, Olivia and Ellis will be mentored by Allison Boesel from Blood Cancer United and past OHHS Student Visionaries. In a special feature this year, Forbes magazine ran a digital article about the program, announcing all the committed candidates, including Ottawa Hills’ own Olivia and Ellis! You can check out the full feature and share it with the school community here: Forbes article: When Teens Fundraise to End Blood Cancer, They Change Lives—Including Their Own Stay tuned for more information on how you can support their campaign! Wishing Ellis and Olivia all the best! Thanks for all you do to fight blood cancer. |
 |
Students Make a Difference: Volunteering with Food for Thought On November 20, students from Stacy Richards' health classes, joined by several junior high students, participated in a meaningful community service experience. The group volunteered with the local non-profit Food for Thought, working alongside employees from Lott Industries. Health teacher Stacy Richards organized the trip to provide students with a hands-on understanding of crucial community issues. The experience served as a practical application of the health curriculum, highlighting the real-world impact of food insecurity on the greater Toledo area. Mrs. Richards underscores the importance of helping students recognize these challenges and see how organizations like Food for Thought work to create systemic solutions for a healthier community. “The health of a community isn't just measured by physical fitness; it’s measured by how well we care for our most vulnerable neighbors. Our lesson today is that true wellness comes from nourishing each other, because when one person struggles with hunger, our whole community feels it,” shared Stacy Richards after the event. A heartfelt thank you to health teacher Stacy Richards for chaperoning this essential trip and connecting academic learning to civic responsibility. Special thanks are also extended to chaperone Kathy Bennecke and bus driver Eric Swisher for making this meaningful community service experience possible. |
Students Make a Difference: Volunteering with Food for Thought On November 20, students from Stacy Richards' health classes, joined by several junior high students, participated in a meaningful community service experience. The group volunteered with the local non-profit Food for Thought, working alongside employees from Lott Industries. Health teacher Stacy Richards organized the trip to provide students with a hands-on understanding of crucial community issues. The experience served as a practical application of the health curriculum, highlighting the real-world impact of food insecurity on the greater Toledo area. Mrs. Richards underscores the importance of helping students recognize these challenges and see how organizations like Food for Thought work to create systemic solutions for a healthier community. “The health of a community isn't just measured by physical fitness; it’s measured by how well we care for our most vulnerable neighbors. Our lesson today is that true wellness comes from nourishing each other, because when one person struggles with hunger, our whole community feels it,” shared Stacy Richards after the event. A heartfelt thank you to health teacher Stacy Richards for chaperoning this essential trip and connecting academic learning to civic responsibility. Special thanks are also extended to chaperone Kathy Bennecke and bus driver Eric Swisher for making this meaningful community service experience possible. |
 |
AP Art History Students Transform Learning at Toledo Museum of Art With their challenging May AP exam in sight, students from Caitlin Shawaker’s AP Art History class engaged in a high-impact learning experience during their recent visit to the Toledo Museum of Art (TMA). The trip, which took place today, Friday, November 21, was a strategic opportunity for students to move beyond classroom slides and textbooks. They spent the day immersed in the TMA’s vast collections, actively working to locate representative artworks and strengthen their grasp of the key themes and 250 required pieces they will study throughout the year. The value of this firsthand experience is significant. Ms. Shawaker shares: “We are fortunate to have such an amazing museum with such breadth to the collection. My students have the opportunity to see original work by artists that appear in their textbook and that we study in class. The trip to the museum is definitely an experience that enhances their learning and understanding.” By seeing these masterpieces in person, students were able to make concrete connections between the art and the specific concepts required for the AP curriculum. This crucial hands-on application is a vital component of their rigorous preparation schedule for the May exam. A special thanks to the Toledo Museum of Art for providing an essential, educational experience that supports our students as they strive for advanced placement success. Special thanks to Mr Swisher for transporting our students on this fabulous field trip. |
AP Art History Students Transform Learning at Toledo Museum of Art With their challenging May AP exam in sight, students from Caitlin Shawaker’s AP Art History class engaged in a high-impact learning experience during their recent visit to the Toledo Museum of Art (TMA). The trip, which took place today, Friday, November 21, was a strategic opportunity for students to move beyond classroom slides and textbooks. They spent the day immersed in the TMA’s vast collections, actively working to locate representative artworks and strengthen their grasp of the key themes and 250 required pieces they will study throughout the year. The value of this firsthand experience is significant. Ms. Shawaker shares: “We are fortunate to have such an amazing museum with such breadth to the collection. My students have the opportunity to see original work by artists that appear in their textbook and that we study in class. The trip to the museum is definitely an experience that enhances their learning and understanding.” By seeing these masterpieces in person, students were able to make concrete connections between the art and the specific concepts required for the AP curriculum. This crucial hands-on application is a vital component of their rigorous preparation schedule for the May exam. A special thanks to the Toledo Museum of Art for providing an essential, educational experience that supports our students as they strive for advanced placement success. Special thanks to Mr Swisher for transporting our students on this fabulous field trip. |
 |
Junior High Explorers Dive into Great Lakes History
This past week, some of our junior high students embarked on an enriching and exciting field trip downtown to the National Museum of the Great Lakes. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to step out of the classroom and explore the profound history and cultural significance of these waterways. The students were captivated by the museum's extensive collection, which brings the stories of the Great Lakes to life. They spent time exploring historic artifacts, such as pieces of recovered shipwrecks and tools used by sailors, for a hands-on look at the past. They also viewed striking photography, with large, powerful images showcasing the raw beauty and the dramatic events that have occurred on the lakes. Additionally, audiovisual and interactive displays helped the students grasp the vital role the Great Lakes have played, and continue to play, in the nation's history, economy, culture, and ecosystems. Our students learned about everything from maritime trade and famous shipwrecks to the importance of the lakes for transportation and natural resources. It was a truly powerful lesson in how this incredible natural feature has shaped our region and the country. A special thank you goes out to chaperones Kathy Benecke and Erica Silk, as well as bus driver Eric Swisher, who made this trip possible and ensured it was a safe and successful experience. |
Junior High Explorers Dive into Great Lakes History
This past week, some of our junior high students embarked on an enriching and exciting field trip downtown to the National Museum of the Great Lakes. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to step out of the classroom and explore the profound history and cultural significance of these waterways. The students were captivated by the museum's extensive collection, which brings the stories of the Great Lakes to life. They spent time exploring historic artifacts, such as pieces of recovered shipwrecks and tools used by sailors, for a hands-on look at the past. They also viewed striking photography, with large, powerful images showcasing the raw beauty and the dramatic events that have occurred on the lakes. Additionally, audiovisual and interactive displays helped the students grasp the vital role the Great Lakes have played, and continue to play, in the nation's history, economy, culture, and ecosystems. Our students learned about everything from maritime trade and famous shipwrecks to the importance of the lakes for transportation and natural resources. It was a truly powerful lesson in how this incredible natural feature has shaped our region and the country. A special thank you goes out to chaperones Kathy Benecke and Erica Silk, as well as bus driver Eric Swisher, who made this trip possible and ensured it was a safe and successful experience. |
 |
Home to Home: Ottawa Hills & Scott High School Students Unite for Chicago Adventure This past weekend, the "Home to Home" partnership—a unique collaboration between students from Scott High School and Ottawa Hills High School—took their bond on the road for an unforgettable expedition to Chicago, Illinois. From November 22–23, 2025, a group of curious and open-minded students traveled together to experience world-class culture, local history, and, most importantly, the power of connection. The trip began Saturday morning with a meaningful visit to the home of Ottawa Hills alumni Pete Kadens (’96) and Amy Kadens (’99). Mr. Kadens, a "Philanthrepreneur" and Chairman of The Kadens Family Foundation, hosted the group for lunch and a "talk back" session. Dedicated to closing wealth and education gaps in the U.S., Kadens offered the students a crash course in entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and activism. He challenged the students with powerful advice, urging them to encourage and help one another. He shared that being generous with time, intellect, and love is what truly makes a person rich, challenging the students to reach out to one another throughout the weekend to make lasting connections. Amy Kadens, a passionate philanthropist and activist, share insight about her most recent projects, early child education and diaper insecurity. She, too, encouraged students to develop deep and meaningful relationships and to find ways to give back to the community and the people Following the morning session, the group boarded their motor coach to take on the bustling streets of downtown Chicago. The itinerary was packed with educational and cultural experiences, including a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago to view masterpieces among the museum's 300,000 works. The group also visited the Shedd Aquarium to see the re-imagined Oceanarium and enjoy a "Penguins 4-D Experience." The evening was capped off with classic deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s followed by a performance of the hit musical Hell’s Kitchen at the James M. Nederlander Theater. Sunday morning offered a change of perspective as the group visited the John Hancock Building to experience 360° Chicago and "The Tilt," extending 1,000 feet over the Magnificent Mile for breathtaking views of the skyline and Lake Michigan. The trip concluded with a walk through Millennium Park to snap photos at the iconic Cloud Gate, known as "The Bean," and a lively 50s-style lunch at Ed Debevic’s, where the décor and waitstaff provided plenty of entertainment before the bus departed for home. Throughout the weekend, the group was fortunate to have David Bush, Youth Commissioner for the City of Toledo, join the trip to facilitate critical bonding moments. Using the theme “Ignite,” Mr. Bush led the students through leadership team-building activities designed to help them explore their personal “Why.” Students were encouraged to document their journey and reflections through photography, lively discussion, and journaling. These intentional moments were instrumental in strengthening the connections between the two schools, helping students bridge the gap and build lasting relationships. This trip was about more than just sightseeing; it was about strengthening the bond between two school communities. Hats off to this amazing group of students who demonstrated that the future is bright. "Home to Home" would not be possible without the generous support of the Kadens Family Leadership Series and the Ottawa Hills Schools Foundation for making these opportunities a reality. Special thanks also go to chaperones Erica Silk, Joseph Peterson, Ben McMurray, Nikiiah Wright, David Bush, and Daveion Beach for their leadership, as well as tour guide Keven Doerksen, and Mike Crandall from Bob Rogers Travel for coordinating the journey. |
Home to Home: Ottawa Hills & Scott High School Students Unite for Chicago Adventure This past weekend, the "Home to Home" partnership—a unique collaboration between students from Scott High School and Ottawa Hills High School—took their bond on the road for an unforgettable expedition to Chicago, Illinois. From November 22–23, 2025, a group of curious and open-minded students traveled together to experience world-class culture, local history, and, most importantly, the power of connection. The trip began Saturday morning with a meaningful visit to the home of Ottawa Hills alumni Pete Kadens (’96) and Amy Kadens (’99). Mr. Kadens, a "Philanthrepreneur" and Chairman of The Kadens Family Foundation, hosted the group for lunch and a "talk back" session. Dedicated to closing wealth and education gaps in the U.S., Kadens offered the students a crash course in entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and activism. He challenged the students with powerful advice, urging them to encourage and help one another. He shared that being generous with time, intellect, and love is what truly makes a person rich, challenging the students to reach out to one another throughout the weekend to make lasting connections. Amy Kadens, a passionate philanthropist and activist, share insight about her most recent projects, early child education and diaper insecurity. She, too, encouraged students to develop deep and meaningful relationships and to find ways to give back to the community and the people Following the morning session, the group boarded their motor coach to take on the bustling streets of downtown Chicago. The itinerary was packed with educational and cultural experiences, including a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago to view masterpieces among the museum's 300,000 works. The group also visited the Shedd Aquarium to see the re-imagined Oceanarium and enjoy a "Penguins 4-D Experience." The evening was capped off with classic deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s followed by a performance of the hit musical Hell’s Kitchen at the James M. Nederlander Theater. Sunday morning offered a change of perspective as the group visited the John Hancock Building to experience 360° Chicago and "The Tilt," extending 1,000 feet over the Magnificent Mile for breathtaking views of the skyline and Lake Michigan. The trip concluded with a walk through Millennium Park to snap photos at the iconic Cloud Gate, known as "The Bean," and a lively 50s-style lunch at Ed Debevic’s, where the décor and waitstaff provided plenty of entertainment before the bus departed for home. Throughout the weekend, the group was fortunate to have David Bush, Youth Commissioner for the City of Toledo, join the trip to facilitate critical bonding moments. Using the theme “Ignite,” Mr. Bush led the students through leadership team-building activities designed to help them explore their personal “Why.” Students were encouraged to document their journey and reflections through photography, lively discussion, and journaling. These intentional moments were instrumental in strengthening the connections between the two schools, helping students bridge the gap and build lasting relationships. This trip was about more than just sightseeing; it was about strengthening the bond between two school communities. Hats off to this amazing group of students who demonstrated that the future is bright. "Home to Home" would not be possible without the generous support of the Kadens Family Leadership Series and the Ottawa Hills Schools Foundation for making these opportunities a reality. Special thanks also go to chaperones Erica Silk, Joseph Peterson, Ben McMurray, Nikiiah Wright, David Bush, and Daveion Beach for their leadership, as well as tour guide Keven Doerksen, and Mike Crandall from Bob Rogers Travel for coordinating the journey. |
Save the Date Wednesday-Friday, November 26-28: Thanksgiving Break-No School Tuesday-Friday, December 16-19: Exams Monday, December 22-Friday, January 2: Winter Break Monday, January 5: School Resumes |
Save the Date Wednesday-Friday, November 26-28: Thanksgiving Break-No School Tuesday-Friday, December 16-19: Exams Monday, December 22-Friday, January 2: Winter Break Monday, January 5: School Resumes |
|
|
| |
