INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – New elementary students were at Independence Primary School were treated to a welcome breakfast.
Guidance counselor Brooke Gradert organized this event which aimed to help new students feel welcomed and connected to the school community and included activities and icebreakers.
“This breakfast was a wonderful opportunity for new students to acclimate to the IPS school environment and feel at home,” said principal TJ Ebert. “We have 18 new students in grades one to four and this did not include any new kindergarten students because they are all new.”
Independence football player and Independence firefighterSubmitted by Independence Local Schools
Football players at Independence Middle School enjoyed sharing a meal with first responders from Independence Fire Department last month.
The first responders shared their experiences as firefighters and were invited to a game by the team captains, where players wore red tape in honor of their guests. Players also got a tour of the firehouse.
“This event emphasized gratitude, community, and the importance of service,” said principal Jamie Vanek. “A big thank you to Independence Fire Department for their dedication and for fostering connections between our young athletes and those who protect our community every day.”
Representatives of OSBA along with Teacher and Military Family Liaison Michael Greene and Principal Jamie Vanek, both holding the plaque.Submitted by Independence Local Schools
A plaque marking Independence Middle School’s recognition as an official Ohio Purple Star School was presented to staff and students last week.
The honor was announced earlier this year and marks schools that have supported the unique wellness and academic needs of military-connected young people.
“This recognition is a true honor and a reflection of the hard work and compassion of our dedicated faculty and staff,” said principal Jamie Vanek. “We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all of our students, especially those with military connections, and this Purple Star designation underscores our unwavering commitment to that goal.”
Alberta Moreal and Sofia SmotekSubmitted by Independence Local Schools
Students at Independence High School are getting a more personalized educational experience leading to a surge in engagement.
In a new move, the school has opened its entire course catalogue allowing learners to pick any course that interested them.
“High school has opened me up to many new interests and hobbies and that is due to the ability to take a variety of different classes,” said senior Sofia Smotek. “I have found myself interested in new subjects that I would not have thought about before, and I owe that to the unlimited possibilities I am exposed to here and Independence High School.”
And fellow student senior Alberta Moreal said: “The array of opportunities and class variety has opened up so many doors for me at Independence High School.”
“Student involvement has increased, while students now want to learn and expand their talents. Speaking from experience, the electives have been a rewarding way for me to branch out of my comfort zone and challenge myself. I joined two woodshop classes last year, where I problem-solved, built multiple things like cutting boards and jewelry boxes while being artistically creative. This opportunity can help students like me and so many others to drive deep into new interests and create more well-rounded characteristics. It is a gift to have these choices and chances.”
As the school year progresses, school leaders plan to gather data on student performance and satisfaction to further improve. “This is just the beginning,” said principal Mike Janatovich. “We’re committed to continually improving how we serve our students’ educational needs and interests.”
