3.68 average GPA; 9 National Merit semifinalists; 67 Honors Diplomas; 923 AP courses completed among 27 AP courses offered; 814 college credits earned

 

As a reminder, Montrose Elementary School once again will serve as a polling place. Watch for extra traffic around the school. There are no classes for students on Election Day, so students will not be in the building. 

 

 

Sponsored by the Bexley Music Parents

 

The Cassingham Complex South parking lot, which is the lot closest to Fair Avenue, will be coned off completely with no access to any vehicles this Saturday and Sunday, November 2 and 3, in order to finish sealing and striping the lot. 

 

This area will be walkable once completely dry, which could take 3 to 5 hours depending on the weather and sunlight. Please be respectful and refrain from relocating or removing cones posted at any point during the weekend. 

The Middle School PBIS team recognized 418 students last week as part of its end-of-quarter recognition. Student recognition is earned for having zero tardies to class and for demonstrating consistent positive behavior.

 

The line was long and orderly – with very well behaved and patient students – who waited for a special Johnson’s Ice Cream treat, scooped by BMS staff members and one student.

 

Congratulations to all of the students – more than 70% of the school’s population – who were recognized! Way to model good school citizenship!

Members of the High School Key Club took part in short reading sessions with Cassingham 1st and 2nd graders this week as part of October’s National Bullying Prevention Month.

 

The high schoolers read the book, Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud to each of the 1st- and 2nd-grade classes. A book review of the piece says: “This heartwarming book encourages positive behavior as children see how rewarding it is to express daily kindness, appreciation, and love.”

Key Club members also worked with the young students to make kindness “buckets” to fill with compliments.

This week we recognize three high school students who were recognized for their care and support when a middle school student was injured on the way to school.

 

All three freshmen, Lucy Dunstan, Delaney Fitzgerald, and Sylvia Laing, were champions to the Baum family. Tracie Baum, the high school attendance secretary, shared her gratitude with the girls for their actions and support when Mrs. Baum’s son was injured.

She wrote in her nomination, “All 3 students showed empathy for a member of their school community, and responsibility in making sure that medical care was received, and crucial adults were alerted. We are so grateful for Sylvia, Lucy, and Delaney!”

 

The students’ nomination cited their Integrity as a reason for their champion awards. Integrity is one of the seven district values that also include Empathy, Equity, Inclusion, Respect, Responsibility, and Well-being.

 

Cassingham students received a special visit on Tuesday morning from the Columbus Symphony Orchestra.

 

The performance was a fun way for students to interact with musicians, hear their beautiful music, and learn about the various instruments and instrumental families, like strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion.

The event is part of the orchestra’s School Program, which takes Columbus Symphony’s more than 40 musicians to schools throughout the area for free concerts.

Last week Bexley Middle School 7th graders took part in workshops with staff from the Thurber House, where they were guided through the process of creative writing.

 

Meg Brown, Director of Children’s Education for the Thurber House, conducted the workshops in the Middle School library, where she led a lesson on story character development. When writing of a character, she encouraged the students to answer questions like, What’s their back story? What are their relationships? What are their personality traits? What makes them unique?

 

The Thurber House visit was funded by a grant from the Bexley Education Foundation, which awarded the grant to Rachel Riegler, Middle School librarian, who  proposed the workshops for “Finding Your Voice and Sharing Your Story through Creative Outlets.”

 

Columbus’s Thurber House offers creative writing experiences to students and adults to inspire innovation and critical thinking. Part of the organization’s mission is to promote excellence in writing.

Middle School Musical Crew Interviews, Friday, Nov. 1, 3:30 p.m., Schottenstein Theatre; more info; crew interview form

Fall Back! Daylight saving time ends, Sunday, Nov. 3, 2 a.m.

No Classes for Students & Teachers, Monday, Nov. 4

No Classes for Students, Teacher Professional Development Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5

Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5, polls are open from 6:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Montrose PTO Election Day Bake Sale, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 6 a.m. – Noon

Orchestra Program Election Day Cookout, Tuesday, Nov. 5, see details

Montrose PTO Meeting, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 7 p.m., School Library

Regular Board Meeting, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 6 p.m., Bexley City Hall

Maryland PTO Skate Night, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 6 p.m., United Skates of America

Middle School PTO Meeting, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 7 p.m., School Library

1. Issue 36, the levy request on the Nov. 5th ballot, is only for day-to-day operations of Bexley Schools. If passed, it would be for a continuing amount of time.
2. Revenue received from voter-approved levies is fixed. House Bill 920, passed in the 1970s, specifies that voter-approved property tax revenue that goes to schools does not increase with inflation or from property-value increases. 
3. The school district’s Five-Year Forecast – a state-required document – projects Bexley Schools will be out of money in fiscal year 2028, without additional revenue.

4. Bexley Schools receive about $1,900 per student from the state and even less money comes from the federal government, mainly through grants; more than 75% of Bexley Schools’ funding comes from Bexley residents through property taxes and a school district income tax.

5. More than two-thirds of our expenditures fund student instruction and support. This equals $.68 cents of every dollar we spend. The remaining expenditures provide staff support, utilities, and ensure safe and secure facilities. Data from the state shows our spending is proportional to that of all other public school districts in Ohio. As shown in the comparison charts below, we spend more than the state average on student instruction-related expenses, including teacher salaries; we spend about the same as the state average for administrators; and we spend less than other school districts on buildings and operations. The portion we spent on buildings and operations is less than most other public schools due to our lower transportation costs. See the comparison charts below for a complete picture of our expenditures.

Zoom in or click on the comparison charts to see the per-pupil spending details

6. It is expected that 30-60 staff positions would need to be cut to cover a projected $4-$7 million annual revenue shortfall if Issue 36 does not pass, according to a budget report presented to the Board in September. Cuts would go into effect during the 2025-2026 school year and would be among all staff categories – teachers, maintenance, custodial, secretaries, administrators, support staff, special education paraprofessionals, and regular building substitutes. 

7. Bexley Schools employ 356 faculty and staff members – nearly 74% are teachers and special education staff members. Another 21% are support staff like custodians and secretaries, while administrators total slightly more than 5% of the total staff.

8. Bexley’s last operating levy was approved by voters in 2019. During that year we received feedback from residents asking the district to find ways to ask for smaller requests. The incremental levy in Issue 36 allows the schools to receive funds when needed – not upfront like a traditional levy – thus lessening the taxpayer’s immediate financial impact.

Bexley Schools’ Treasurer/CFO Kyle Smith created information on how to determine your property tax estimate for Issue 36. Click on the image below to enlarge the graphic if needed.

Congratulations to Bexley’s Amiya Bowles for earning her third consecutive Division II state championship in girls’ singles tennis competition last Friday!

 

It took about 4 hours in her semifinal match at The College of Wooster to best Cincinnati Indian Hill junior Martha Thompson 6-7 (8-10), 6-4, 6-4. In the championship, Amiya swept Pepper Pike Orange freshman Genevieve Hayden 6-4, 6-1. The junior earned a 16-0 record this season and is 56-0 in her high school career.

Congratulations to High School World Language teacher Alina Pinney, who was recognized as a champion in Bexley Schools.

 

Ms. Pinney, who is in her first year teaching Spanish at Bexley High School, was recognized by a colleague for her warmth and kindness to students, faculty and staff alike. Her nominator wrote, “Her positive attitude is contagious and our school already feels like a kinder place because Ms. Pinney teaches here.”

The teacher was recognized for Demonstrating Kindness, one of three pillars of the school district’s mission statement to Learn with Curiosity, Demonstrate Kindness, and Embrace Equity. Way to BE Ms. Pinney!

Montrose students and staff gathered last Thursday for their first Moose Gathering of the year, when dozens of students were recognized.

 

The event included Bexley school and city officials who were on hand to recognize the 85 members of the Montrose safety patrol – the largest group in the last 10 years to volunteer to help keep their classmates and Montrose families safe during arrival and dismissal. Bexley Police Officer Clayton Adams administered the safety patrol oath to the 4th- and 5th-grade safety patrol students at the beginning of the assembly.

 

Following the safety patrol recognition, physical education teacher Adam Strait called the names of 50 students who were nominated by teachers or other staff members. The students were recognized for their display of either Kindness or Respect during the first grading period and received a certificate for their honor. 

 

The assembly ended with a fun video of the many students and family members who recently took part in the Montrose Cardboard Challenge.

Bexley Middle School’s PBIS Committee recently recognized its Staff and Student Core Value of the Month award winners for August/September. 

 

For this first recognition of the school year, staff nominated students who have been standouts for the core value of Respect   ?  “acting toward other people with the level of care and dignity you would want for yourself.” Students also nominated staff members who have made a difference in their lives and embodied respect.

 

Congratulations to the first Core Value of the Month award recipients: 6th grader Kayden Cain; 7th grader Max Bednar-Riggs; 8th grader Alisha Ranjitkar; and BMS math teacher Andrew DelRosso.

We recently have seen students riding motorized scooters on the turfed fields at the Cassingham Complex. Please inform your students that these activities can destroy our costly athletic fields.

 

As a reminder, no bicycles, scooters, or any wheeled vehicles are permitted on the turf. Also, only service animals are permitted on the turf, and no garbage, gum, or food waste should be left on the fields or on any school playgrounds.

 

Thank you for helping to protect our athletic field venues and school properties!

Blacktop maintenance will be done this weekend, beginning Saturday, Oct. 26, at about 8 a.m. and extending into Sunday, Oct. 27, for blacktop sealing and striping in areas around the Cassingham Complex.

 

The areas to be worked on include the north parking lot (off Elm Street), the walkway areas around the arts wing and stadium, and a portion of the parking lot behind the high school. These areas will be off limits for vehicles but will be walkable once completely dry, which could take 3 to 5 hours depending upon the weather and sunlight.

The Bexley Minority Parent Alliance (BMPA) will celebrate Black History Month in February by honoring African Americans who have made a difference in the community. In partnership with the City of Bexley, the BMPA will recognize current and former African American Bexley residents for their historical significance and/or positive impact on the community.

 

 

Current and former Bexley residents, Bexley High School graduates, and business or community leaders who identify as African American are eligible. 

 

According to the BMPA, potential nominees should demonstrate leadership and integrity and be respected by their peers. They may also be recognized for any of the following:

Fall Family/Teacher Conferences, Today & Tomorrow, Oct. 24-25; Times & schedules vary by school

Halloween Cabaret, Presented by the High School Vocal Ensemble, Saturday & Sunday, Oct. 26-27, Cassingham Complex cafeteria

Special Board of Education Meeting, Monday, Oct. 28, 5:30 p.m., Bexley City Hall; see public notice

Middle School Musical Auditions, Monday-Wednesday, Oct. 28-30, 3:30 p.m., Dargusch Theater; more info; audition form

Fall Family/Teacher Conferences, Tuesday, Oct. 29; Times & schedules vary by school

High School Jazz Concert, Tuesday, Oct. 29, 7 p.m., Schottenstein Theater

Middle School Musical Crew Interviews, Friday, Nov. 1, 3:30 p.m., Schottenstein Theatre; more info; crew interview form

Maryland Elementary students and staff took part in an enjoyable, yet moving event on Monday morning when Nashville singers-songwriters Eric Brace and Thomm Jutz performed two of their folk songs during a Mallard Meet-Up in the school gymnasium.

 

The feature performance was at the end, when the singers, along with the students, debuted “The Beautiful Dream,” a song commissioned and written in memory of Maryland’s beloved music teacher Jackie Batteiger, who taught at Maryland for more than 20 years. She passed away unexpectedly in the summer of 2023.

 

Monday’s acoustic version of the poignant song was meant to “speak to all of us  ?  to keep ‘the beautiful dream’ of music in our lives,” said Diane Paul, a longtime Bexley faculty member who now teaches music to Maryland students. 

Ms. Paul prepared the students well, as the students demonstrated when their loud and proud voices joined the songwriters in singing the chorus.

 

The singer-songwriters had a connection to Bexley from a past visit in 2015, and met Mrs. Batteiger at that time. Ms. Paul said, “When the music staff was looking for a songwriter for this commissioned piece, we thought of them. Their latest album, “Simple Motion,” hit #1 on the Folk DJ chart in March 2024.”

 

The commissioning of “The Beautiful Dream” was funded by a generous grant from the Bexley Education Foundation. The choral version of the song, which will debut during Bexley Schools’ February and March choral concerts, is currently with a choral arranger. That version will be published for choirs everywhere to sing.

 

You may listen to the students’ singing along with the songwriters of “The Beautiful Dream” in the video below. The piece also is available on the district’s YouTube channel.

Bexley High School recently named the Top Ten seniors in the running for the 2024 Homecoming Monarch. Eleven students actually were named, due to a tie for tenth place. Two Monarchs will be crowned during halftime of tomorrow evening’s Homecoming game against Bishop Ready.

 

Congratulations to the following seniors: Caroline Baldwin; Henry Elmore; Brian Ennin-Sampson; Marius Garcia; Elise Garrett; Carly Hanin; Griffin Heideman; Dylan Horn; Kendal Johnson; Jackson McMaster; and Sophia Spiess!

Bexley Schools’ operating levy will appear on the November 5th ballot as Issue 36. The schools’ levy webpage includes quick links to online tools from the Franklin County Auditor, which will help you learn your home’s value, estimate your taxes, and estimate the cost of the levy for your property.

 

You also can find information about Bexley Schools’ finances and how the district’s spending compares to other districts in the area and around the state. A third section also presents information about how schools are funded in Ohio.

 

Opening night is tonight for Bexley Middle School’s presentation of The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood at 7 p.m. in the Cassingham Theatre! There will also be performances Saturday, October 19, and Sunday, October 20. The play will not be performed tomorrow evening, October 18, due to the Homecoming football game.

Saturday’s performances are at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday’s performance is at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at the door or online.

Don’t miss next weekend’s annual Halloween Cabaret! This popular event features members of Bexley High School’s talented Vocal Ensemble in a fundraising event for the schools’ music program.

 

Three weekend performances will be Saturday, October 26 at 1 and 7 p.m. and on Sunday, October 27 at 1 p.m. The annual Halloween Cabaret is performed in the high school cafeteria and ticket prices include the cost of food and beverages. Doors open 30 minutes before each event.

 

Reserved and general admission seating are available at each event. Reserved seating for students and staff is $20, while the general admission price for students and staff is $15. Adult prices are $25 for reserved seating and $20 for general admission. You may pay by cash or check, with checks payable to the Bexley Music Parents.

 

Contact Choral Director Amy Blosser at [email protected] for tickets or questions.

This week we recognize two staff members as “champions.”

 

High School Assistant Principal Kristen Kearns was recognized by two colleagues, sharing that Mrs. Kearns demonstrates Empathy for others, especially students. Empathy is one of seven district values.

Her nominators wrote, “Mrs. Kearns has so much love and compassion for all of her students and staff. Working with her has been such a joy because she always has time to listen. She also makes time to laugh, which is wonderful. She treats students with respect and always meets them where they are.”

 

Also recognized for embracing Inclusion, another district value, is Middle School building substitute Nikki Barden. Mrs. Barden was recognized by a colleague who wrote in his nomination that she has jumped right in to meet the needs of students and staff at the middle school. “Even though she is new to the building, she has looked for ways to support students and staff. She makes students feel welcome, included, and cared for in the classroom. She has already been a life-saver!”

 

 

See the latest Foundation news in the Bexley Education Foundation’s October newsletter. This piece provides an update on its annual fund drive, the Youth Philanthropy program, and the Foundation’s support of the newly released song written in memory of beloved Maryland teacher Jackie Batteiger.

 

Next Friday, October 25, No Classes for Students, Family/Teacher Conferences

The Bexley Board of Education honored Bexley resident Kumi Walker with its 2024 Friend of Education award, and honored Mr. Walker and his family during yesterday evening’s meeting.

 

Board President Victoria Powers honored Mr. Walker in her remarks, saying she has known him to be an important thought leader and has worked with him on Strategic Planning and other district initiatives. “He brings a deep commitment, vast knowledge, and straight forward, no elbows, no ego, eyes-on-the-prize outlook I so admire.”

In recent years, Mr. Walker has been heavily involved in the district’s strategic planning, including serving as a member of the Strategic Planning Steering Committee, the Superintendent’s Advisory Committee, and the Subcommittee on Culture. He also is a member of the schools’ Futures Advisory Council, which works to envision what Bexley Schools could be in 50 years. He is a member of One Bexley, and was a featured Maryland Difference Maker last school year. He and his wife, Dr. Joy Walker, are strong supporters of the Bexley Education Foundation.

 

The Friend of Education award is an annual recognition and is given to an individual who has made a significant contribution to public education in the City of Bexley and who goes above and beyond to give their time to our schools. An engraved brick with Mr. Walker’s name and award will be added to the Alumni Piazza/Walkway at the Cassingham Complex.

During yesterday’s regular Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Dr. Jason Fine and Dr. Harley Williams, Director of Facilities & Operations, updated the Board on the status of acquiring more than 28 acres of land at 935 N. Cassady Ave., north of Bexley.

 

“This opportunity, in my opinion, can have a transformational impact on our entire district, and I believe it benefits all students,” Dr. Fine said at the beginning of the presentation.

 

Dr. Williams shared a history of how the school district has worked for years to develop use agreements for Bexley athletics with partner organizations like the Jewish Community Center, Bexley Parks & Rec, Columbus Parks & Rec, Capital University, and St. Catharine’s Church. His presentation showed that such efforts date back to the late 1990s and have continued regularly since that time.

 

Other information highlighted in Dr. Williams’ presentation includes: 

This week we recognize two 5th-grade students from Maryland Elementary for their kindness.

 

Elementary Instructional Coach Katie Appel made sure to let the students’ teachers and school officials know about a recent post on the Bexley Buzz praising the two boys, Jack W. and Charlie W., for championing a fellow student by being kind and placing his needs above their own. Not only did they encourage the student while walking to school, but they helped the child feel included and made sure he got to school safely. Way to BE Jack and Charlie!

Jack and Charlie were recognized by Ms. Appel, their teachers Margaret Cieply and Cynthia Throckmorton, and Dr. Jason Fine for Demonstrating Kindness, which is central to the schools’ mission to Learn with Curiosity, Demonstrate Kindness, and Embrace Equity.

Next week is Homecoming Week, a time of tremendous pride and school spirit in Bexley High School. History reminds us of things that families, students, and other residents should keep in mind for the week.

 

For example, it has been a tradition for seniors to toilet paper the front lawn of the high school and we see this as harmless fun. If this tradition continues this year, then seniors will be required to clean up the front lawn of the school on the following morning, so our custodial staff is not burdened.

 

As a further reminder, we will not condone the removal and/or damage of private or school property. Students who engage in these types of activities will be excluded from Homecoming weekend activities and may face additional disciplinary and/or legal consequences.

 

As a practical piece of advice to our community, we advise families to remove any yard signs or lawn decorations for the short term.

Students’ ingenuity and creativity were on display last Saturday when Cassingham and Montrose hosted their annual Cardboard Challenge. Dozens of families joined their students for the events.

 

The Cardboard Challenge is a global event, taking place in 80 countries. It began in East Los Angeles in 2012. According to the Imagination.org, the Global Cardboard Challenge is a celebration of child creativity, encouraging children to “Just build it!” The organization’s website says the annual event is “an opportunity for children to build anything they can dream up out of cardboard, recycled materials and imagination.”

 

This is the 10th year for Montrose to take part in the event, while Cassingham held its 7th Challenge this year.

Congratulations Dr. Jason Fine, who recently was recognized by the Central Ohio “Think Make Live Youth Organization.”

 

Dr. Fine is the recipient of a 2024 Central Ohio Social Justice Award for Education Advocacy and was honored along with others from throughout Central Ohio recently during a recent awards luncheon and ceremony.

 

Dr. Jonathan Baker, member of the Bexley Board of Education, and Bryan Drewry, executive director of the Bexley Chamber of Commerce, joined Dr. Fine at the event.

The week of October 14th is recognized as Digital Citizenship week throughout the world. We would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone of resources and efforts Bexley City Schools are making in Digital Wellness:

Many more opportunities and experiences are coming later this year as our schools work toward our technology-related goals in both our Strategic Plan and Technology Plan.

Join friends and neighbors for a special One Bexley dinner with this Sunday, October 13, from 5-7 p.m. 

 

One Bexley’s second Fall Dinner on Drexel gathering, which will take place on Drexel Avenue north of Main Street, will bring the community together for a night of shared food, conversation, and connections.

 

Participants will be assigned to a table that is hosted by a community member to help encourage fresh conversation and new connections!

 

Please RSVP for the event online.

Bexley Schools will host a District Financial Update meeting for the community this coming Tuesday, October 15. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at Jeffrey Mansion and is expected to last about an hour.

 

During this meeting, Bexley Schools Treasurer Kyle Smith and Superintendent Dr. Jason Fine will share information about the state of Bexley Schools’ finances and why the Board of Education placed a levy on the November 5th ballot. Treasurer Smith will also explain the levy cost to property owners. 

Cassingham PTO Meeting, Friday, October 11, 8:30 a.m.

High School Fall Choral Concert, Sunday, October 13, Schottenstein Theatre, 2 p.m.

One Bexley Dinner on Drexel, Sunday, October 13, 5-7 p.m.

Taste of Bexley, Monday, October 14, St. Charles Prep, 5:30 p.m.

District Financial Update Community Meeting, Tuesday, October 15, Jeffrey Mansion, 6:30 p.m.

Middle/High Schools Fall Orchestra Concert, Wednesday, October 16, Schottenstein Theatre, 7 p.m.

Middle School Play, The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood, Thursday, October 17 and Saturday-Sunday, October 19-20, Schottenstein Theatre; online tickets

Fall Family/Teacher Conferences, Thursday, October 24; Times & Schedules Vary by School

Halloween Cabaret, Presented by the High School Vocal Ensemble, Saturday and Sunday, October 26-27; ticketed event

Fall Family/Teacher Conferences, Tuesday, October 29; Times & Schedules Vary by School

 

October 18 (Fri.), No Classes for Students, Teacher Workday

October 25 (Fri.), No Classes for Students, Family/Teacher Conferences

Bexley Schools is happy to present our inaugural Embracing Equity newsletter. This new publication highlights the important work done every day in our schools to live our mission to Learn with Curiosity, Demonstrate Kindness, and Embrace Equity.

 

This first issue shares a brief history of Board policy as it relates to equity in our schools, as well as how we embrace equity within our culture to ensure all students receive the resources, attention, and support they need to meet their unique goals.

 

Pointing to the school district’s Strategic Plan, Superintendent Dr. Jason Fine writes, “Equity, in many ways, is the essence of this plan. It’s about more than just ensuring fairness; it’s about actively working to dismantle barriers and create opportunities for every student to succeed.”

This issue also shares how restorative practices can help create a strong sense of belonging and community in our schools. This Fall, each Bexley school will also launch its participation in the Anti-Defamation League’s “No Place for Hate” program – learn more inside – and The One Bexley Project is featured with a call to action for Bexley families to help everyone feel welcomed and thrive!

 

The Embracing Equity newsletter will be published three times each year.

It was a beautiful sunny day yesterday for Cassingham Elementary’s first Workout Wednesday. Cassingham students joined Principal David Schottner and staff members on the high school track during lunch recess for walking, running, and enjoying the gorgeous weather. Principal Schottner encouraged students and staff members to wear exercise clothes and join him for the hour of physical activity. 

Bexley Middle School will present The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood on October 17, 19, and 20 in the Cassingham Theatre.

 

The play will not be performed on Friday, October 18 due to the Homecoming football game.

 

Opening night is Thursday, October 17, at 7 p.m. 

The play also will be performed on Saturday, October 19, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, October 20, at 2 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door or online.

 

THE STORY: It sure is hard to be humble when you’re a swashbuckling, egocentric super-hero. But our gallant guy-in-green tries his best as he swaggers through The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood, a frantically funny, Monty Pythonesque retelling of the classic. This time around, the legendary legend, in his never-ending quest to aid the needy, encounters a lovely damsel-in-distress (oddly obsessed with skin conditions); an ever-scheming sheriff who would rather bowl a strike than hit a bull’s-eye; a gold-hoarding, bad-guy monarch wannabe; and a good-natured “Town’s Guy” who manages to make his way into every scene, whether he belongs there or not. Combine them with an expandable band of spoon-wielding Merry Men whose collective IQs equal six, and you’ve got an irreverent jaunt through Sherwood Forest you won’t soon forget! 

This week we recognize two members of Bexley Schools’ maintenance staff, Mark Cooper and Scott Hensley. Their nominator wrote of their kindness demonstrated on a daily basis with students and staff members, and specifically cited their help with classroom and greenhouse maintenance and their support of the high school’s environmental club.

 

Throughout the school year, Bexley Schools recognizes individuals – students and staff alike – for embodying the pillars of the school district’s mission to Learn with Curiosity, Demonstrate Kindness, and Embrace Equity. 

The champion awards may also recognize for demonstrating the schools’ values of Inclusion, Integrity, Empathy, Equity, Respect, Responsibility, and Well-being. Way to BE Mr. Cooper and Mr. Hensley!

Don’t miss “Dubbs’ Story” on Tuesday, October 8, when Bexley Schools will host 2003 Bexley graduate Dubbs Weinblatt at 6:30 p.m. at the Montrose Elementary School library. The event is intended for Bexley parents and guardians.

 

Weinblatt is the founder and CEO of Thank You For Coming Out, an organization that inspires connection, belonging, and community by uplifting and centering LGBTQIA+ stories and identities.

 

Mark your calendars for a special dinner with friends and neighbors on Sunday, October 13, from 5-7 p.m. Please note this is a new date from what was originally announced.

 

One Bexley’s second Fall Dinner on Drexel gathering, which will take place on Drexel Avenue north of Main Street, will bring the community together for a night of shared food, conversation, and connections. Participants will be assigned to a table that is hosted by a community member to help encourage fresh conversation and new connections!

 

Please RSVP for the event online.

 

Monday, October 7 is the voter registration deadline to vote in the November 5th general election. Need to register or update your address information? Go to voteohio.gov for information and the online form.

Bexley Schools will host a District Financial Update meeting for the community on Tuesday, October 15. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at Jeffrey Mansion and is expected to last about an hour.

 

During this meeting, Bexley Schools Treasurer Kyle Smith and Superintendent Dr. Jason Fine will share information about the state of Bexley Schools’ finances and why the Board of Education placed a levy on the November 5th ballot. Treasurer Smith will also explain the levy cost to property owners.

Cassingham Cardboard Challenge, Saturday, October 5, Cassingham Playground, 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Montrose Cardboard Challenge, Saturday, October 5, Montrose Playground, 9 a.m.-Noon

Maryland Fall Fun Fest, Sunday, October 6, Maryland Playground, 1-3 p.m.

“Dubb’s Story,” with Bexley Grad Dubbs Weinblatt, Tuesday, October 8, Montrose Library, 6:30 p.m.

Diverse Learning PTO Meeting, Tuesday, October 8, High School Library, 6:30 p.m.

Board of Education Regular Meeting, Wednesday, October 9, Bexley City Hall, 6 p.m.

Cassingham PTO Meeting, Friday, October 11, 8:30 a.m.

High School Fall Choral Concert, Saturday, October 13, Schottenstein Theatre, 2 p.m.

One Bexley Dinner on Drexel, Sunday, October 13, Drexel Avenue & Main Street, 5-7 p.m.

Taste of Bexley, Monday, October 14, St. Charles Prep, 5:30 p.m.

District Financial Update Community Meeting, Tuesday, October 15, Jeffrey Mansion, 6:30 p.m.

Montrose PTO Meeting, Tuesday, October 15, School Library, 6:30 p.m.

Middle School/High School Fall Orchestra Concert, Wednesday, October 16, Schottenstein Theatre, 7 p.m.

 

October 18 (Fri.), No Classes for Students, Teacher Workday

October 25 (Fri.), No Classes for Students, Family/Teacher Conferences

Music teacher Diane Paul’s Maryland Elementary’s students enjoyed learning a traditional folk dance recently in recognition of Hispanic Latinx Heritage Month.

 

Class started with a video of Hispanic dancers performing Los Machetes to introduce the students to the dance and the culture in which it is performed. Los Machetes is a Mexican folk dance from the Jalisco region of Mexico that was created by farm workers who used machetes as their sugar cane harvesting tool. The dance is usually performed in celebration of the harvest.

Students were quick to learn the basic steps and phases of the dance and once they got the hang of it, they added rhythm sticks to simulate the use of machetes in the dance. The students were quick learners and soon were performing the steps, kicks, and smiles in rhythm with the music.

In a new PBIS initiative, six middle school students were recognized recently after receiving “positive referrals” from teachers for their behavior.

 

PBIS – Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports – is practiced throughout Bexley Schools and recognizes positivity among students. Teachers are encouraged to recognize the helpful and encouraging student behavior, including for Cooperation, Courage, Creativity, Empathy, Equity, Gratitude, Honesty, Inclusion, Integrity, Perseverance, Respect, Safety, Well-being, Kindness, and Responsibility.

 

Congratulations to 6th grader Charles Lynch; 7th graders Leah Djourabchi, Evan Gertmenian, and Za’Ryiah Hedges; and 8th graders Alajuan Denny and Julian Morgan-Young.

 

Students who are recognized receive a “BMS FastPass,” which entitles the student to go to the front of the cafeteria line once. The students also will assist with making the school’s morning announcements.

This week we spotlight Bexley High School juniors Alex Gouke and Nick Gouke, who were recognized as “champions” for Demonstrating Kindness, one of the district’s three mission statement pillars.

 

Recognized by a former teacher, the two were cited for “exemplifying kindness” in their willingness to help others. “They lead in humility and are hard workers,” their nominator wrote.

Bexley Schools will host 2003 Bexley graduate Dubbs Weinblatt as they share “Dubbs’ Story” on Tuesday, October 8 at the Montrose Elementary School library. The event, which is intended for Bexley parents and guardians, begins at 6:30 p.m.

 

Weinblatt is the founder and CEO of Thank You For Coming Out, an organization that  inspires connection, belonging, and community by uplifting and centering LGBTQIA+ stories and identities.

The speaker, who is also a storyteller, podcaster, producer, and consultant, will share their story as a nonbinary, trans person who builds empathy and educates others about some of the most foundational LGBTQIA+ concepts. Weinblatt says, “Through the power of storytelling, humor, and both my expertise and lived experience, I connect with and educate audiences in hopes I can inspire change for a more equitable world.”

Mark your calendars for a special dinner with friends and neighbors on Sunday, October 13, from 5-7 p.m. Please note that this is a new date from what was originally announced.

 

One Bexley’s second Fall Dinner on Drexel gathering, which will take place on Drexel Avenue north of Main Street, will bring the community together for a night of shared food, conversation, and connections. Participants will be assigned to a table that is hosted by a community member to help encourage fresh conversation and new connections! Please RSVP for the event online.

 

Table hosts still are needed to prepare and serve a meal for eight to 10 people. If you're interested in hosting a table, some financial assistance may be available. Email Natalie Vawter for more details.

Bexley Schools will host a District Financial Update meeting for the community on Tuesday, October 15. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at Jeffrey Mansion and is expected to last about an hour.

 

During this meeting, Bexley Schools Treasurer Kyle Smith and Superintendent Dr. Jason Fine will share information about the state of Bexley Schools’ finances and why the Board of Education placed a levy on the November 5th ballot. Treasurer Smith will also explain the levy cost to property owners.

 

Tuesday, October 7 is the voter registration deadline to vote in the November 5th general election. Need to register or update your address information? Access the needed form online.

 

Bexley Schools maintains our Flier Connection on the district website as a resource for community and other events or notices. This “virtual backpack” allows us to share information from outside organizations on events, recreation sports leagues, and more. Don’t forget to check the Flier Connection on a regular basis. You can find the Flier Connection on the district home page under the “About” tab. You also may submit events or information for posting to our “Flier Connection.” The button to submit information is on the same webpage. 

 

The Bexley Education Foundation released its September electronic newsletter. Read the latest news and information from the Foundation, including a Save the Date call for Bravo! 2025.

Starts Tonight! - Grade 4/5 Musical, “Imagine a Dragon,” Thursday-Saturday, September 26-28, Schottenstein Theatre

High School Play Crew Interviews, Friday, September 27, 3:30 p.m., Schottenstein Theater

Cassingham Cardboard Challenge, Saturday, October 5, 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Montrose Cardboard Challenge, Saturday, October 5, 9 a.m.-Noon

Maryland Fall Fun Fest, Sunday, October 6, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

“Dubbs Story,” with Bexley Grad Dubbs Weinblatt, Tuesday, October 8, Montrose Library, 6:30 p.m.

Board of Education Regular Meeting, Wednesday, October 9, 6 p.m.

October 3 (Thurs.), No School for Students and Teachers

October 18 (Fri.), No Classes for Students, Teacher Workday

October 25 (Fri.), No Classes for Students, Family/Teacher Conferences

Bexley High School seniors Ella Hughes and Benjamin Montgomery recently were named National Merit semifinalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

 

National Merit finalists for the Class of 2025 will be notified in February.

 

Bexley Schools posted its 2023-2024 Quality Profile this week. The feature piece is available online on the