The Chagrin Falls Exempted Village School District launched the 2024-25 academic year with a series of engaging events that brought together students, families, and staff in a celebration of community and learning. The district's theme, "Inspiring All to Grow & Thrive," set the tone for a year focused on individualization, belonging, and partnerships.
The festivities began with a PTO-hosted playground meet-up for new Gurney Elementary families, followed by a special playdate for the Class of 2038 kindergarteners at South Russell Park. Mortimer, the district mascot, along with Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Penczarski and Board of Education members, were on hand to welcome the youngest learners.
Gurney Elementary held a student orientation on August 21, allowing children to meet their teachers and classmates before the official start of school. The first day featured a whole-school assembly focusing on the CARES program - emphasizing cooperation, assertiveness, responsibility, empathy, and self-control.
Chagrin Falls Intermediate School hosted an Ice Cream Social in partnership with Safe Routes to School, providing an opportunity for students and parents to tour the school and meet teachers. The Middle and High Schools kicked off the year with a well-attended "Meet the Teams" event, featuring the first performance of the High School Marching Band.
Chagrin Falls Middle School offered a Welcome Walkthrough for students to get acquainted with the school and schedule. Student leadership groups prepared information and prizes for their peers and everyone got to meet their teachers. There also were plenty of raffles on the first day of school for coveted prizes from Tiger Perk.
The High School welcomed the Class of 2028 with a Freshman Orientation, connecting new students with their LINK leaders who will guide them through their first year.
Throughout these events, the District emphasized its organizational drivers: Connect, Create, and Challenge, reinforcing the commitment to fostering growth and building strong community connections. As students returned to classrooms on August 22, the air was filled with excitement and anticipation for a year of learning and thriving together.
