From the Superintendent:
The year 2015/2016 has been an exciting year for Toronto City Schools. We continue to see a positive
growth in enrollment, mostly through open enrollment. We continue to gain more and lose less
students to neighboring districts.
Our sports program has had its best year in the recent past. This is throughout all sports and even if one
sport was down the athletes never gave up. A new softball field is being developed through cooperative
efforts with the city of Toronto. A new athletic building for weightlifting and wrestling was built from
donations. A new baseball scoreboard became a reality again by donations.
We are a city school district and are very close knit. The city of Toronto works so cooperatively with us.
In the preliminary plans are a new addition to the 2012 building. This will house PS-05. The best part, if
all goes well as expected, our 39% will come from new state money and at no cost to taxpayers. The
other 61% will come from the Ohio State Facilities Commission.
Where did our share come from? In the current two year budget we received 1.4 million and 1.9 million
respectively. This was based on a growing population of over 10% in the past six year, the highest
property taxes in Jefferson County, a lower income of families, a mil brings in a low amount (est.
$65,000) and a history of support for the schools by the voters. This last one makes us most proud. Our
voters support our schools. Education of the students of today continues to be the responsibility of
taxpayers. Our voters take this as a responsibility and an opportunity.
We look forward to a safe environment for learning and a friendly atmosphere for students and families.
Being as Red Knight and accepting those responsibilities is what our constituents continue to provide.
~~ Fred Burns
Superintendent
The year 2015/2016 has been an exciting year for Toronto City Schools. We continue to see a positive
growth in enrollment, mostly through open enrollment. We continue to gain more and lose less
students to neighboring districts.
Our sports program has had its best year in the recent past. This is throughout all sports and even if one
sport was down the athletes never gave up. A new softball field is being developed through cooperative
efforts with the city of Toronto. A new athletic building for weightlifting and wrestling was built from
donations. A new baseball scoreboard became a reality again by donations.
We are a city school district and are very close knit. The city of Toronto works so cooperatively with us.
In the preliminary plans are a new addition to the 2012 building. This will house PS-05. The best part, if
all goes well as expected, our 39% will come from new state money and at no cost to taxpayers. The
other 61% will come from the Ohio State Facilities Commission.
Where did our share come from? In the current two year budget we received 1.4 million and 1.9 million
respectively. This was based on a growing population of over 10% in the past six year, the highest
property taxes in Jefferson County, a lower income of families, a mil brings in a low amount (est.
$65,000) and a history of support for the schools by the voters. This last one makes us most proud. Our
voters support our schools. Education of the students of today continues to be the responsibility of
taxpayers. Our voters take this as a responsibility and an opportunity.
We look forward to a safe environment for learning and a friendly atmosphere for students and families.
Being as Red Knight and accepting those responsibilities is what our constituents continue to provide.
~~ Fred Burns
Superintendent
Best Practice Grants Augment Instruction
TORONTO-The Jefferson County Educational Service Center awarded grant funds to Toronto City School teachers which will augment instruction for students.
Teachers from Karaffa Elementary and Toronto Jr./Sr. High School received more than $1,600 in in Best Practice Grants during the Nov. 19 school board meeting. The district has participated in the grant program since 2010 and three of its seven applications were approved this year. Representatives of JCESC distributed three grants to Nichole Locke, Katie Mitchell, Theresa Cooper, Denise Keffer and Lynne Donahue during the session to enhance learning.
Locke, who instructs music at Karaffa Elementary, plans to utilize the funding for her 400 general music students. “Musical Instruments for General Music” is the name of her project and includes purchasing Boomwhackers and Percussion Hand Drum sets.
“This is my first year of teaching here at Karaffa Elementary School,” she said. “I believe that students need a hands-on education, and without certain instruments in my classroom, I cannot give the students the hands-on education they deserve. I was interested in providing instruments for all of my classes and this allows the students to learn music in another form than just singing. They will be able to play instruments and sing and I am also interested in adding these instruments to school performances to challenge the more advanced students while others can focus on just singing our songs. Students will be able to show in multiple ways their understanding of the music being taught. I will be also able to add in differentiated instruction to my classes, adding more advanced parts on instruments while I am still helping the other students learn the words or rhythm to the music.”
Locke added that this was her first grant and had never written a grant before, noting her surprise when she learned she was chosen.
“I am thankful for the opportunity to expand my classroom instrument collection with the money from this grant. It will benefit my students and their education as they grow musically.”
Mitchell, Cooper and Keffer united for a project to assist 100 students in cognitive, social and emotional domains with “ELLs Matter Too.” They applied for the grant to purchase some much-needed multicultural materials in their preschool classrooms based on the current student population. Mitchell said they lacked resources and needed a variety of materials to help support English Language Learners (ELL) students.
“We came up with this project due to the recent implementation of Step Up To Quality in the preschool programs. A classroom assessment known as the Ohio Classroom Observation Tool (OCOT) must be completed annually and assesses the environment of each classroom and the materials used to support the learning environment,” she added. “One area that we are currently lacking in our classroom in regards to the OCOT assessment is the use of materials that reflect the children and families while offering additional diversity for other races, cultures, genders and abilities. We do not have any multicultural toys, posters, books, clothing, art supplies, or play food that supports this area in our classrooms.”
She added that they currently have three English language learners who only speak their native language. With the recent gas and oil boom in the area, they expect to have more non-English speaking students joining their classrooms in the future.
This was the first time the trio received a Best Practice Grant and they looked forward to using the funds to make the necessary additions to benefit their classes, especially the ELL students.
“We would like to thank the Jefferson County ESC for the offering of this grant and know it will greatly benefit our students,” Mitchell concluded.
Donahue’s project, “Classroom Interactive Aids and Texts,” will aid some 165 Language Arts students in her classroom. The intent is to acquire items to aid differentiated instruction, such as audio and visual aids, extra novels, and kinesthetic activities.
“My project involves a multitude of items that cater to differentiated instruction and multiple learning styles. There are two sets of classroom novels along with lesson plans that are common core-centered, plus posters, interactive games, and extra lesson plan items,” she noted. “This project spawned from the new state standards as well as a focus on differentiated instruction here at Toronto High School. I have really been concentrating on reaching all of my learners with my lesson plans, not just a few.”
This is her second such grant award and Donahue was excited to receive the financial support. She thanked the JCESC for giving her the opportunity.
JCESC Supervisor Ron Sismondo praised the educators, saying their projects ran the gamut when instructing their pupils.
“Music and language-based learning formed the crux of Toronto’s projects, and they offer unique ways of augmenting instruction,” Sismondo said.
JCESC Superintendent Dr. Chuck Kokiko echoed those sentiments.
“The Jefferson County Educational Service Center has long worked with school districts and administrators and this grant is a positive way to spark innovative ideas from educators and help teachers improve student learning in the classroom,” Dr. Kokiko added.
Sixty-nine applications were submitted this year and 22 grants totaling $12,100 were awarded to area school districts, which also include Buckeye Local, Edison Local, Indian Creek, Harrison Hills City, Steubenville City, Southern Local, and the Utica Shale Academy.
Patty Ferrell, intervention specialist and teacher mentor/preschool supervisor for the Jefferson County Educational Service Center, presented $550 Best Practice Grants for three educational projects during the Toronto City School Board of Education meeting on Nov. 19. Pictured are, from left, Ferrell, Nichole Locke, Michelle Blazek accepting for Lynne Donohue, Teresa Cooper, Katie Mitchell, and Denise Keffer.)
Toronto City School Board Recognized
TORONTO-The Toronto City School Board of Education is spotlighting its members in observance of School Board Recognition Month for January.
The board includes Karen Walker, who has served since 2006; Tim Starr, who has participated since 2005; Bob Reeves, a member since 2010; Julie Ault, who has served since 2013; and Jay Foster, a member since 2011. They marked the occasion with a board recognition dinner on Jan. 14 by Nutrition, Inc.
Superintendent Fred Burns said their main accomplishments have included a year of enrollment stability and gaining financially from the state budget. Future plans include exploring the completion of the new school building by adding Pre-K through fifth grade and still using part of KES due to increased enrollment.
“This would not require any additional voter approval or costs since our share, if we proceed, will be through the money we have gained,” said Burns.
He added that the members’ goal is to provide the best educational opportunities possible, noting that all five are graduates of Toronto City Schools. The district currently has 985 students and covers 4 ¼ miles.
January is School Board Recognition Month and elected members of the Toronto City School Board of Education are being highlighted for their dedication to education. Pictured are, front from left, Karen Walker, Julie Ault and Treasurer Coleen Wickham. Back: Superintendent Fred Burns, Robert Reeves, board President Jay Foster and Tim Starr.)
Lions good award
Lions Club G.O.O.D. Award Ceremony Held
Nine KES students were presented with the Lion’s Club G.O.O.D. Award.
Lions Club G.O.O.D. Award Ceremony Held
The Lion's Club GOOD Awards were presented at Karaffa Elementary School. The GOOD Award was created by Ron Derry. Mr. Derry developed this award with the belief that more emphasis should be placed on student behaviors within the school environment. He created a list of ten behaviors, which he thought would enable students to become GOOD citizens. The ten behaviors were: student attends school regularly; student completes homework assignments on time; student displays neatness and accuracy with all written work; student shows preparation for all announced tests; student shows interest in learning through means of appropriate questions; student is a good listener in class; student constantly shows respect for administrators, teachers, and all other school personnel; Student does his/her part to see the classroom is conducive to a good learning environment; student displays acts of good citizenship on a daily basis; and student has shown an act of caring towards another person in a difficult situation. These ten behaviors became the criteria for the GOOD award. Teachers at Karaffa Elementary School were asked to select one student in their third, fourth, or fifth grade class who best exemplified these behaviors. Students who had previously won the GOOD award were not eligible to receive it again.
The 2016 G.O.O.D. Award recipient were third grader Blair Allison, daughter of Scott Allison and Angie Allison, third grader Xander Rockhold, son of Tabitha Rockhold, third grader Baylie Jeffers, daughter of Tiffany Carpenter, fourth grader Leah Gibson, daughter of Bobbie Bailey and Ryan Gibson, fourth grader Riley Fisher, daughter of Bill and Jill Fisher, fourth grader Tanner Ensell, son of Jim and Beth Ensell, fifth grader Maryn Donnelly, daughter of Richard and Elizabeth Donnelly, and fifth grader Lily Firm, daughter of Adam and Heather Firm, and fifth grader D.J. Swick son of Dan and Beth Swick. Toronto Lions Club members Bob Woodside, Denise Woodside, Jim Coffey, Dick Carter, and Brant Boka participated in the awards ceremony. Bob Woodside, Toronto Lion’s Club member, was the keynote speaker.
Mr. Chris Dopp, principal of Karaffa Elementary School, congratulated each of the honored students and their parents and thanked the Lions Club for sponsoring the G.O.O.D. program at Karaffa Elementary School.
Lions Club G.O.O.D. Award Ceremony Held
Nine KES students were presented with the Lion’s Club G.O.O.D. Award.
Lions Club G.O.O.D. Award Ceremony Held
The Lion's Club GOOD Awards were presented at Karaffa Elementary School. The GOOD Award was created by Ron Derry. Mr. Derry developed this award with the belief that more emphasis should be placed on student behaviors within the school environment. He created a list of ten behaviors, which he thought would enable students to become GOOD citizens. The ten behaviors were: student attends school regularly; student completes homework assignments on time; student displays neatness and accuracy with all written work; student shows preparation for all announced tests; student shows interest in learning through means of appropriate questions; student is a good listener in class; student constantly shows respect for administrators, teachers, and all other school personnel; Student does his/her part to see the classroom is conducive to a good learning environment; student displays acts of good citizenship on a daily basis; and student has shown an act of caring towards another person in a difficult situation. These ten behaviors became the criteria for the GOOD award. Teachers at Karaffa Elementary School were asked to select one student in their third, fourth, or fifth grade class who best exemplified these behaviors. Students who had previously won the GOOD award were not eligible to receive it again.
The 2016 G.O.O.D. Award recipient were third grader Blair Allison, daughter of Scott Allison and Angie Allison, third grader Xander Rockhold, son of Tabitha Rockhold, third grader Baylie Jeffers, daughter of Tiffany Carpenter, fourth grader Leah Gibson, daughter of Bobbie Bailey and Ryan Gibson, fourth grader Riley Fisher, daughter of Bill and Jill Fisher, fourth grader Tanner Ensell, son of Jim and Beth Ensell, fifth grader Maryn Donnelly, daughter of Richard and Elizabeth Donnelly, and fifth grader Lily Firm, daughter of Adam and Heather Firm, and fifth grader D.J. Swick son of Dan and Beth Swick. Toronto Lions Club members Bob Woodside, Denise Woodside, Jim Coffey, Dick Carter, and Brant Boka participated in the awards ceremony. Bob Woodside, Toronto Lion’s Club member, was the keynote speaker.
Mr. Chris Dopp, principal of Karaffa Elementary School, congratulated each of the honored students and their parents and thanked the Lions Club for sponsoring the G.O.O.D. program at Karaffa Elementary School.
Cindy Hinerman is the 2016 Joseph and Anna Marie Karaffa Award for Excellence in Education Recipient
Cindy Hinerman was the 2016 recipient of the Joseph and Anna Marie Karaffa Award for Excellence in Education. Mrs. Hinerman has worked in the Toronto City School District since 2000. She has worked as an instructional aide, Title I teacher, reading teacher, and currently serves as the Success For All Reading Facilitator at Karaffa Elementary School. Mrs. Hinerman received her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Franciscan University of Steubenville and her Master’s Degree in Special Education from West Virginia University.
Mrs. Hinerman received numerous nominations for the award from current students and colleagues. Susan Karaffa Schnell, daughter of Joseph and Anna Marie Karaffa said, “Common threads in all the nominations received for Mrs. Hinerman are that she cares deeply about students; goes above and beyond to help students, parents, and colleagues; wears many hats; and always wants to do more, without recognition or compensation.” According to one nominator, “Learning is so important, but you need someone who can spark that want and interest in a child’s mind. Mrs. Hinerman has encouraged so many children to reach for higher goals for themselves rather than taking another path.”
The Joseph and Anna Marie Karaffa Award for Excellence in Education is presented annually to a teacher or administrator active in Toronto City Schools. The award was established to recognize the efforts of an outstanding teacher or administrator for creating an environment where teaching and learning is valued. Past recipients include: Kirk George (2015), Sally George (2015), Jane Brower (2013), Jennifer Dickinson (2012), Donna McCasland (2011), Ellen Hughes (2010), Mary Jo Kuhn (2009), Lynda Glenn (2008), Charlene Starr (2007), Linda Blair (2006), Linda Antonucci (2005), Gary Fisher (2004), Maureen Taggart (2003), James Ray (2002), Susan Buckham (2001), Barbara Carter (2000), Kirk George (1999), and Barbara Pritts (1998). Nominations for the award were accepted from students, teachers, administrators, parents, and alumni.
Eagle Rock Professional Development Center
Toronto City School District is partnering with Eagle Rock Professional Development Center. Eagle Rock is located in Estes Park, Colorado and works with schools, school districts, and youth service organizations across the United States to help those entities create healthy, high-functioning learning environments, with the aim to improve student engagement. These services are offered completely free of charge to school districts across the country. The Toronto City School District is partnering with Eagle Rock to learn to use protocols to improve data driven dialogue and decision making which will lead to improved instruction and student achievement. Eagle Rock began working with the district on December 17, 2015 during the Building Leadership Team meetings and will continue this partnership for the 2016-2017 school year.
Danielle Smoot Shares Anti-Drug Abuse Message
Danielle Smoot of Cole’s Warriors, visited Toronto Jr.-Sr. High School to share the sad story of her son, Cole Ryan Smoot. Cole was a typical 16 year old sophomore at Tecumseh High School in New Carlisle, Ohio. He was in honors classes, was a wrestler, an active member of the Junior Air Force Reserve Officer Training Cadet (ROTC) program, a great friend, an amazing older brother, and a loving son. Cole was an adventurous child who was continually in search of the next big adventure. On February 12, 2011, Cole decided to join his friends in what would be his last adventure. That evening, Cole, for the first and last time, decided to take a prescription drug that was not his. When displaying symptoms of drug ingestion, his parents took him to the emergency room where he was tested, evaluated, and released. A few short hours later, Cole was found dead, lying in his bed. He had stopped breathing sometime during the night. Cole took Methadone, and just one pill killed him.
Danielle Smoot reminded the students that one bad decision can lead to tragedy. She shared her experiences coping with the loss of her son and the impact his bad decision had on his friends, family, and community. Mrs. Smoot discussed some of the misconceptions surrounding the use of prescription drugs. She stated that some people have the belief that prescription drugs are safe because there are prescribed by a doctor but taking someone else’s prescription can be deadly. She also encouraged students who may be innocent bystanders to speak up and tell a trusted adult if they have friends in situations similar to Cole’s.
The staff and students of Toronto Jr.-Sr. High School thank the Valley Youth Workers Network for bringing Danielle Smoot’s assembly to the school.
Modern World History Class Visits Heinz History Center
Students in Ms. Fletcher’s Modern World History class visited the Senator John Heinz History Center. The main purpose of the visit was to see a special exhibit called “We Can Do It: WWII”. This exhibit allowed students to explore Pittsburgh’s role on both the home front and the battlefield during World War II.
The exhibition showed the development of the jeep, a uniquely American invention produced by the American Bantam Car Company in Butler, Pa., and revealed the stories behind real-life “Rosie the Riveters” and local Tuskegee Airmen whose contributions made an unquestionable impact on the war effort. The “We Can Do It: WWII” featured nearly 300 artifacts, four life-like museum figures, and interactive displays that brought the 1940s to life as the nation commemorates the 75th anniversary of the start of WWII. The History Center partnered with several organizations to develop the exhibit, including the Smithsonian Institution, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Soldiers and Sailors Museum, Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh, Veteran’s Voices, Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival, Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Fort Pitt Chapter, the Tuskegee Airmen of the Western Pennsylvania Region, Zippo/Case Museum, First Frontier Mechanized Cavalry, and more.
A special thank you to Mike Biasi from Valley Converting and Jay Foster from J.E. Foster Funeral Homes for sponsoring this field trip and providing this unique educational experience for our students.
SENIORS HONORS ASSEMBLY
The Toronto High School Honors Assembly was held on Wednesday, May 25, 2016. Many awards and scholarships were presented to graduating seniors. The Toronto City School District truly appreciates the generosity of the local businesses, community organizations, and citizens who sponsor these awards each year.
Recipients of the Diploma with Honors were Drew Bigler, Matthew Emery, and Erin Heaton. The recipients of the President’s Education Award were Emily Anderson, Drew Bigler, Mollie Chetock, Matthew Emery, Erin Heaton, and Josey Jones.
Erin Heaton was named the valedictorian of the Class of 2016. Drew Bigler was named the Salutatorian of the Class of 2016. The remainder of the Top Ten of the Class of 2016 was Emily Anderson (3), Josey Jones (4), Matthew Emery (5), Mollie Chetock (6), Blaisen Glenn (7), Emma Brousseau (8), Elyse Price (9) and Sydney Troski (10). The Class of 2016 Honor students were Lucas Anderson, Carlie Elson, Haley Gorney, Logan Pethtel, Kenneth Reese, Samantha Roberts, and Shannan Schramm.
Students who earned academic letters were Emily Anderson, Bethany Beswick, Drew Bigler, Matthew Emery, Blaisen Glenn, Haley Gorney, Erin Heaton, Josey Jones, Kenneth Reese, Samantha Roberts, Shannan Schramm, Sydney Troski, Karley Weaver, and Kelsey Weaver. A perfect attendance award was presented to Sean Spence. An outstanding attendance award was presented to Drew Bigler. Rotary Club Scholarship went to Blaisen Glenn.
T.H.S. Alumni Scholarships were awarded to Drew Lowery, Sydney Troski, Haley Gorney, Drew Bigler, Samantha Roberts, and Bethany Beswick. The recipient of the T.H.S. Alumni Association Foundation Scholarship was Matthew Emery. Robert T. Hughes Memorial Grant went to Erin Heaton. Dr. Verne McConnell Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Emily Anderson. Jason Motto Memorial Award went to Josey Jones. The recipient of the Cliff and Hazel Walker Award was Kenneth Reese. Bill and Betty Davis Award went to Lindsey Winstel. Titan Cheerleader Award recipient was Alexis McVicker. Titan Football Player Award recipient was Hank Clegg. Blaisen Glenn received the Dr. Jane Shaffer Award. Richard and Betty Hughes Award was given to Carlie Elson. Nathan Carter received the Kris Kelly Award. The Janet Kruise Scholarship went to Emma Brousseau. Miranda Robinson received the Ed Gray Award. The Carolyn Argentine Byers Scholarship was presented to Elyse Price.
Hugh O’Brien Leadership Award was awarded to Nathan Keenan. The recipient of the Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award was Sante Carducci. The George Gundling Award went to Blaisen Glenn. Eastern Gateway Community College Scholarship was awarded to Mollie Chetock. T.E.A. Scholarship was awarded to Erin Heaton. Rod Henry Kiwanis Club Scholarship was awarded to Jordan Haight and Cierra Firm. Mike Shuma Scholarship was given to Blaisen Glenn. American Legion Scholarship was awarded to Erin Heaton. Blaner Gift Scholarship was awarded to Sydney Troski and Samantha Roberts. Kenneth Reese received the Dawn Holt Anderson Award. The Class of 1975 Scholarship in Memory of Clarence “BUD” Means was presented to Haley Gorney. Miranda Robinson received the Noah Long Memorial Scholarship.
Sante Carducci, Dustin Henry, Jack Karaffa, Noah Smith, Maddie Robins, Desiree Meadows were announced as Buckeye Boys and Girls State Delegates.
The recipient of the Student Senate Scholarship was Lucas Anderson. Activity Account Scholarship was awarded to Donnie Starkey. Toronto Masonic Lodge 583 Award went to Carlie Elson.
Kathryn Hammond Award was presented to Josey Jones. Larry Herdman Award went to Blaisen Glenn. Frank “Windy” Kestner Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Drew Lowery. OHSAA Courageous Student Award was presented to Lindsey Winstel. OHSAA Scholar/Athlete Award went to Drew Bigler and Emily Anderson. Archie Griffin Awards went to Miranda Robinson and Blaine Rawson. The recipients of the Athletic Boosters Awards were Sydney Troski and Riley Keirsey. Blaisen Glenn and Sydney Troski were the recipients of the Larry “Pappy” Coil Award.
The D.W. Hoover Award was presented to Drew Bigler. John Phillips Sousa Award was presented to Drew Bigler. Erin Heaton received the Barry Stewart Memorial Scholarship. Arion Award was presented to Erin Heaton. James D. Crawford Award went to Logan Pethtel. Barbara Craven Award was presented to Lindsey Winstel. Drew Bigler was the recipient of the Kirk W. and Sally George Music Award.
Reanne K. Phillips Scholarship was awarded to Emily Anderson and Emma Brousseau. Lucille Campbell Award went to Shannan Schramm. The recipient of the Three Arts Award was Drew Bigler. Recipients of the Charles M. Pugliese and Thelma M. Pugliese Foundation Scholarships were Matthew Emery, Lucas Anderson, Mollie Chetock, and Josey Jones. The Don Chichilo Music Scholarship was presented to Kenneth Reese. Lucas Anderson received the Red Cross Scholarship Award.
Focus In Toronto Community Service Award in Memory of Glenn Blanton was presented to Kenneth Reese. The Youth Basketball Award was presented to Blaisen Glenn. Kenneth Young Memorial Scholarship went to Drew Lowery and Emily Anderson. Senior athletic plagues were presented to Emily Anderson, Drake Barry, Drew Bigler, Hank Clegg, Mollie Chetock, Blaisen Glenn, Alex Ganger, Tyler Hill, Nick Ighnat, Josey Jones, Joe Jordan, Riley Keirsey, Cody King, Drew Lowery, Brandon Mitchell, Will Newbold, Elyse Price, Blaine Rawson, Miranda Robinson, Gavin Roche, Jerry Savage, Donnie Starkey, Justin Starkey, Sydney Troski, and Lindsey Winstel. The Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Certificate was awarded to Erin Heaton.
Relay for Life Held May 13th
Mrs. Mosti presented Mayley Board with a trophy for being the top fundraiser for the THS Relay for Life
Relay for Life Held May 13th
The Toronto City School District held its annual Relay for Life on Friday, May 13th. Students raised funds for the Jefferson County Unit of the American Cancer Society and awareness about cancer prevention and treatment. This year’s relay theme was “Picture A Cure”. A shirt was designed to commemorate the event. Students participated in an afternoon walk on the school grounds while listening to popular music and viewing the signs in honor or in memory of their loved ones who have battled cancer. Students in grades 6-12 walked approximately 560 miles and raised $1,708.65. The Relay for Life was coordinated by the THS Math Department and the Student Senate.
Mrs. Mosti presented Mayley Board with a trophy for being the top fundraiser for the THS Relay for Life
Relay for Life Held May 13th
The Toronto City School District held its annual Relay for Life on Friday, May 13th. Students raised funds for the Jefferson County Unit of the American Cancer Society and awareness about cancer prevention and treatment. This year’s relay theme was “Picture A Cure”. A shirt was designed to commemorate the event. Students participated in an afternoon walk on the school grounds while listening to popular music and viewing the signs in honor or in memory of their loved ones who have battled cancer. Students in grades 6-12 walked approximately 560 miles and raised $1,708.65. The Relay for Life was coordinated by the THS Math Department and the Student Senate.
Alex Morale and Miranda Robinson are displaying Adrian Branch’s championship rings.
L.A. Laker Adrian Branch Visits THS
Adrian Branch, former Los Angeles Laker and current ESPN analyst, gave a presentation to a packed house at Toronto Jr.-Sr. High School. Mr. Branch’s theme was “You are not born a winner or a loser. You are born a chooser.” He shared his personal stories about the pressures of growing up as a stand-out athlete, the temptations he confronted while playing basketball in college and the NBA, and the decisions he had to make to stay on the right path.
This assembly was through Sports World, sponsored by the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference, and offered free of charge to the district. Sports World sends professional athletes to share personal life experiences with students, helping them to recognize the consequences of their choices while challenging them with a message of hope. Sports World’s focus is to help students see the value of making positive choices in their life. Thank you to the OVAC for providing three Sports World assemblies in our schools over the past three years-New York Giant Lee Rouson, Pittsburgh Steeler Tim Lester, and this year Los Angeles Laker Adrian Branch.
L.A. Laker Adrian Branch Visits THS
Adrian Branch, former Los Angeles Laker and current ESPN analyst, gave a presentation to a packed house at Toronto Jr.-Sr. High School. Mr. Branch’s theme was “You are not born a winner or a loser. You are born a chooser.” He shared his personal stories about the pressures of growing up as a stand-out athlete, the temptations he confronted while playing basketball in college and the NBA, and the decisions he had to make to stay on the right path.
This assembly was through Sports World, sponsored by the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference, and offered free of charge to the district. Sports World sends professional athletes to share personal life experiences with students, helping them to recognize the consequences of their choices while challenging them with a message of hope. Sports World’s focus is to help students see the value of making positive choices in their life. Thank you to the OVAC for providing three Sports World assemblies in our schools over the past three years-New York Giant Lee Rouson, Pittsburgh Steeler Tim Lester, and this year Los Angeles Laker Adrian Branch.
THS Knight Baseball Complex receives New Scoreboard
The Knight Baseball Complex has a new scoreboard thanks to the generosity of several local individuals and businesses. The old scoreboard was in need of repair but parts were no longer available to fix it. Coach Brian Perkins began a campaign to raise the funds needed to replace the board. The six major scoreboard sponsors included Valley Converting, Foster Funeral Homes, Judge Lisa Ferguson, John Ratti/State Farm, NC Sportz of Follansbee, and Trinity Express Care. The new scoreboard cost approximately $25,000 and features LED lighting and displays HOME and GUEST team scores for up to 10 innings, total RUNS and HITS to 99 and ERR (errors) to nine for each team, AT BAT to 99, BALL to three, STRIKE to two, OUT to two and H/E (hit or error) with field position number for the error. To acknowledge the support of our sponsors, their names are permanently displayed across the bottom of the scoreboard. The scoreboard was installed with assistance from Mayor John Parker and City of Toronto. Thank you to all who contributed.
Senior Honors Assembly
SENIORS HONORS ASSEMBLY
Mrs. Christine Hargrave presented Erin Heaton with the Robert Hughes Memorial Grant during the Senior Honors Assembly.New Members Inducted Into NHS and Beta Club
A joint induction ceremony was held for the Toronto Jr.-Sr. High School National Honor Society and National Beta Club. The National Honor Society Chapter of Toronto Jr.-Sr. High School inducted fifteen new members including Lucas Anderson, Sante Carducci, Joseph Corrao, Crystal Ford, Senecca Fuller, Dustin Henry, Jack Karaffa, Allyson Kuntz, Ryan Long, Desiree Meadows, Joseph Nemitt, Hannah Parker, Meghan Rawson, Noah Smith, and Max Tice.
Miss Michelle Blazek, National Honor Society advisor, said students had to maintain a 3.3 grade point average or better for five consecutive semesters to be eligible for induction. Other principles of the National Honor Society are leadership and citizenship. According to the National Honor Society motto “nobility obligates”, students who are inducted are obligated to help those less fortunate then themselves. The National Honor Society chapter at Toronto Jr.-Sr. High School is quite active throughout the year with service projects.
The Toronto High School Beta Club inducted twenty-three new members including Ashley Anderson, Kaleigh Baker, Emily Best, Bailey Crain, Cole DeGarmo, Jaden Grimm, Kobe Herrick, Jozaeyah Jordan, Nathan Karaffa, Bianca McDonald, Marissa McDonald, Carson Meek, Hunter Moran, Madeline Perkins, Ciara Rice, Hollie Robinson, Nick Sninchak, Maisie Swartz, Sydney Taggart, Seth Watkins, Christina Westlake, Joshua Williamson, and Sara Yarosz. The purpose of the Beta Club is to recognize and promote high academic achievement, reward and nurture worthy character, foster leadership skills and encourage service to others. Beta is the second letter of the Greek alphabet. “B” represents “bios” (the Greek word for life). Dr. John W. Harris, the founder of the National Beta Club, wanted members to learn not just how to make a living, but how to actually make a life for themselves.
Blaze Glenn Becomes Toronto’s All-Time Leading Scorer
Blaze Glenn was congratulated by Tom “Chipper” Coulter.
Blaze Glenn Becomes Toronto’s All-Time Leading Scorer
Toronto Red Knight History was made on Friday, December 18, 2015 in Kunzler Memorial Gym as Blaze Glenn scored his 1,533rd career point with 4:19 in the third quarter against Oak Glen becoming Toronto’s new all-time leading scorer. Tom “Chipper” Coulter held the all-time leading scorer title for 51 years with 1,531 career points in 1964. Coulter was on hand to congratulate Blaze and present him with a commemorative game ball. Coach John Leary described Blaze as one of the best athletes in school history. He said he feels privileged to have coached an athlete like Blaze.
Blaze Glenn was congratulated by Tom “Chipper” Coulter.
Blaze Glenn Becomes Toronto’s All-Time Leading Scorer
Toronto Red Knight History was made on Friday, December 18, 2015 in Kunzler Memorial Gym as Blaze Glenn scored his 1,533rd career point with 4:19 in the third quarter against Oak Glen becoming Toronto’s new all-time leading scorer. Tom “Chipper” Coulter held the all-time leading scorer title for 51 years with 1,531 career points in 1964. Coulter was on hand to congratulate Blaze and present him with a commemorative game ball. Coach John Leary described Blaze as one of the best athletes in school history. He said he feels privileged to have coached an athlete like Blaze.
Toronto Baseball Team Among the Elite Eight
The THS Baseball Team had an outstanding season finishing the year with a 23-3 record. They were the state poll champs, OVAC regular season champs, OVAC 2A Tournament Champs, Sectional Champs (for the 22nd consecutive year), District Champs, Elite 8 State Tournament qualifiers, Regional Runner-Ups, and the WTOV 9 Top 9 Spring Sports Team. In addition, several players received post-season honors. Blaze Glenn was named to the O.V.A.C. All-Star Team, the Eastern District All-Star Team, 1st Team All-Ohio, and the Mizuno All-Star Baseball Team. Blaine Rawson was named to the O.V.A.C. All-Star Team and to the Eastern District All-Star Team. Hank Clegg and Riley Keirsey were named to the Eastern District All-Star Team. Dan Zdinak and Nolan Clegg named to the 1st Team All-Ohio. Coach Brian Perkins was named the Ohio State 2A Baseball Coach of the Year, OVAC Baseball Coach of the Year, Eastern District Baseball Coach of the Year, and selected to coach in the Mizuno All-Star Baseball Game. Congratulations to the THS Baseball team on this most historic season!
Ty West
Ty West Reaches State Meet
Ty West, state runner-up in the 200m
Ty West Reaches State Meet
Congratulations to Ty West on his amazing track season marked by personal best records in the 100 meter dash (10.9 seconds) and 200 meter dash (22.2 seconds); and a trip to the state track meet. He set the 1A-2A OVAC meet records in the 100 meter and 200 meter. Ty has collected various achievements throughout the season including Jefferson County Champion in the 100 meter, 200 meter, and 4x100 relay; unbeaten in the Ohio Valley Track League (OVTL) in the 100 meter and 200 meter; OVAC Champion in the 100 meter and 200 meter; Division 3 Eastern District Champion in the 100 meter and 200 meter; Division 3 Regional Champion 200 meter and 4th in the 100 Meter; and State Qualifier in both the 100 and 200 Meter. Ty finished eleventh in the state in the 100 meter dash with a time of 11.2 seconds. He placed second in the 200m dash with a time of 22.20 seconds. Ty was also recognized as one of the WTOV 9 Top 9 Spring Athletes.
Ty West Reaches State Meet
Ty West, state runner-up in the 200m
Ty West Reaches State Meet
Congratulations to Ty West on his amazing track season marked by personal best records in the 100 meter dash (10.9 seconds) and 200 meter dash (22.2 seconds); and a trip to the state track meet. He set the 1A-2A OVAC meet records in the 100 meter and 200 meter. Ty has collected various achievements throughout the season including Jefferson County Champion in the 100 meter, 200 meter, and 4x100 relay; unbeaten in the Ohio Valley Track League (OVTL) in the 100 meter and 200 meter; OVAC Champion in the 100 meter and 200 meter; Division 3 Eastern District Champion in the 100 meter and 200 meter; Division 3 Regional Champion 200 meter and 4th in the 100 Meter; and State Qualifier in both the 100 and 200 Meter. Ty finished eleventh in the state in the 100 meter dash with a time of 11.2 seconds. He placed second in the 200m dash with a time of 22.20 seconds. Ty was also recognized as one of the WTOV 9 Top 9 Spring Athletes.