Cedar Cliff Local Schools

Superintendent’s Newsletter

August 2020

It is the mission of Cedarville Schools to “Provide students with the best well-rounded education that teaches, challenges and develops the mind, body and character and prepares responsible graduates who contribute within society.”

Flexibility Will be the Key!

It is the beginning of August. School “officially” begins on Wednesday, August 26, but

the beginning of this year comes with an unprecedented amount of uncertainty and questions—for all

of us!

I would have to admit, I did not expect to have this uncertainty entering into the year when

school was finalized at the end of the 2019-2020 academic school year. I was hoping there would be

more “normalcy” when we returned. Sadly, this is just not going to be the case.

Over 25 years of education I have never experienced anything like this pandemic and all that

accompanies the response. I do know and believe this, with all my heart, kids need to be in school—

and that is not just about academics. There are a myriad of reasons why students need to be with

teachers and around their peers. Those reasons have all been well-documented and espoused over

the last few weeks/months.

However, there are also a myriad of reasons why, for the health and safety of the students and

staff, that students should not be in the building for face-to-face instruction and not be returning. It

is for this reason school districts across the state have come to many different decisions on what

school should “look like” for the 2020-2021 academic year. Some are planning to come back for a

regular start with safety measures put into place, others are planning on a hybrid approach where

students and building capacities are limited, while others are planning on an all-remote start with

students not in the building. Who is correct is largely predicated on your own personal, professional,

and political beliefs.

(Flexibility…cont.)

I get to hear all the opinions as a Superintendent. I always smile when someone says, “It is

simple, you just…” As soon as someone says, “It is simple,” you often lose me. There is nothing

“simple” about these decisions, the issues, or the ripple effects associated with the path we choose

moving forward.

I have even heard folks say, “Just bring all schools back, allow everyone to get sick, get it

over with and allow ‘herd immunity’ to take effect.” I did the math on that one—consider this:

The CDC states that herd immunity is when 80% of the country or state has had the virus.

Let’s suppose we use half of that number—40% before we all have herd immunity—40%. There are

11.9 million people in the State of Ohio, 40% (roughly) comes to 4,640,000 people getting sick or

contracting the virus. Ohio currently, as of the date I write this, has 93,031 confirmed cases. To get

to 40% (and remember, the CDC recommends 80%) the State would need 4,546,969 more cases

before we reach the 40% threshold. That means, Ohio would need 12,457 more confirmed cases

every day for the next 365 days to reach the 40% threshold. Ohio’s current highest daily number—

1,733 (again, as I write this article). Critics of this argue, “But Mr. Mason, those numbers are

garbage!” That may be so, depending on what you believe, but the point is, it is not “simple” when

people say Superintendents should “just do this,” to make decisions.

There is a very good chance, whatever plan schools have—right now, in August—will

change throughout the year. Our teachers and staff will have to be very flexible as we proceed

through this year, as will our parents/community members, Board of Education members,

Administrators, and most importantly, our students. We will have many ups and downs throughout

the year—many. As I reflect, I hope we can send our students the message, Welcome to Life—ups

and downs—accomplishments and disappointments—adjusting and patience. We all need these

skills and sometimes we need reminded of the importance of those skills. Here’s to all of us honing

those skills as we proceed.

Let’s have a great year—no matter what it looks like!

Best Regards,

Chad Mason, Superintendent

Cedar Cliff Local Schools

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COVID Testing Availability

School Re-Opening Plans

For the most up-to-date plans regarding the start of the 2020-2021 school year, please visit the district

website at: https://www.cedarcliffschools.net/. The following chart illustrates how the district plans to adhere to

Greene County Public Health guidelines and alert status, but much greater detail is provided on the district

website.

A “Virtual/Remote” option is provided this year for parents reluctant to send their child back to school for

face-to-face instruction. Parents are reminded—the first week of August, 3-7, is the deadline for informing the

district should parents choose this option. Parents should inform their building principal if they desire for this

learning model for their child and, if they choose this option, are further reminded, they must continue this for the

entire first semester of the 2020-2021 school year.

Remaining Summer Office Hours:

The remaining weeks before school, the administrative offices at the elementary, high school, and central offices will be open from 8:00 am-3:30 pm.

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Pass along the Information!

If you know of someone who would like to receive the newsletter, feel free to forward

the information. We will also have copies available at the Board Office and the Senior Citizens’

Center if someone would like the traditional paper copy. Once again, you can sign up to receive

the newsletter from the Cedar Cliff Website at: http://www.cedarcliffschools.net/

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Drivers Needed

Have you ever thought about driving a school bus? We are currently looking for substitute bus

drivers who can be available on an as-needed basis. If interested in becoming a bus driver,

please send an email to our transportation supervisor, Tom Morgan: tmorgan@ccliff.org

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Interested???

The folks at the Greene County Public Library have a program to help with the

“summer slide” and keep children ready to learn. With the nature of the current

pandemic, this type of program is more important than ever! See the information

below from the Library’s summer program:

Prevent Summer Slide! Our Greene County Public Library’s SUMMER READING

PROGRAM is still going strong. It’s a great way to prepare your student for a great start

this Fall. For more information, visit www.greenelibrary.info/summer-reading.

Let’s Welcome the New Cedar Cliff Faculty and Staff!

Summer always brings movement in the educational profession. With this movement comes the

opportunity to welcome new additions to the Cedar Cliff family. The following are this year’s newest

members and we can’t wait to get started working with them!

New faculty joining the Elementary School include:

Mr. Justin Richardson (Miami University (OH) / Wright State University / Elementary Education

(1-8) and Special Education Licensure): Mr. Richardson will be assisting in our Special Education

department as well as teaching a Life Skills course in the Elementary. He comes to us from Lakota and

most recently Centerville and has 10 years of experience in the educational ranks. He has even served as

as an adjunct professor for Wright State University in the School of Education!

Ms. Ashley Fisher (Cedarville University / 4th and 5th Grade Language Arts): Ms. Fisher will be

joining the 4th and 5th grade team and returning “home” to Cedar Cliff. As a 2004 graduate from CHS,

Ms. Fisher was excited to return to her roots and re-join the Cedarville family! She will be the 4/5

Language Arts instructor for the upcoming school year. She has ten years’ experience in the educational

ranks and comes to Cedar Cliff from Springboro Community School District.

Mr. Brian DeHoff (University of Iowa): Mr. DeHoff will be serving as a first grade teacher for

this school year. He also holds endorsements in Reading and Language Arts instruction and comes to

Cedar Cliff with 6 years of teaching experience in Iowa and will now learn what it means to be a Buckeye

rather than a Hawkeye!

Ms. Abigail Wolford (Cedarville University): Ms. Wolford will be serving as the Elementary PE

teacher as well as the JV Volleyball Coach for Cedarville High School. A standout athlete at Cedarville

University, Ms. Wolford completed her student teaching experience at CHS and we are thrilled to have

her back in an official capacity!

Mr. Caleb Vanden Eynden (University of Dayton): Mr. Vanden Eynden comes to us from the

Dayton Area where he completed his student teaching with the Springboro Community School District.

He will be assisting with the Marching Band. After his experience in the same position with Chaminade-

Julienne HS, we are excited for him to assist the CHS stellar music program.

New support staff members include:

Ms. Heather Herbst (Classroom Aide/Athletic Trainer): Ms. Herbst is a 2011 CHS graduate and

will be filling in part-time in the classified staff ranks as well as assisting our athletic programs in

conjunction with Kettering Sports Medicine. She is a Cedarville University Graduate and we appreciate

her hard work and efforts to help us out in our time of need in the support staff ranks.

Mrs. Loraine Mitter (Wright State University): Mrs. Mitter holds certifications in School

Counseling, School Psychology, as well as Business Education. With over 30-years’ experience in the

educational ranks, we are excited for all she has to offer while serving as the district School Psychologist.

This has been a difficult position to fill in the past and we are excited to have her join the Cedar Cliff

family.

News from the Nurse!

The following information regarding immunizations and the adopted rules for school

vaccinations is now posted on the district website at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-

p0TBTyPwBAU2pZM1BKak1nNjg/view. Important information is highlighted below. Should

you have any questions, feel free to contact your doctor or pediatrician.

Immunization Information

Incoming 7th graders for the 2020-2021 school year are reminded that they must show proof

of the following immunizations before they may enter school. This coming fall, incoming 7th graders

will be required to have documentation of 1 dose of Tdap vaccine. In addition, Meningococcal

vaccine will also be required for the upcoming school year prior to entry to the 7th grade.

Please check with your family physician if you have any questions.

Proof of these immunizations may be delivered to the office any time. This will need to be

completed before students may enter school for the 2020-2021 school year. Once again,

immunization documentation can be turned in beginning this week, through the summer months.

Seniors (those entering 12th grade) will need an additional Meningococal Immunization (2 doses).

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Emergency Phone System

The Cedar Cliff Local School District utilizes the ONECALLNOW phone alert system

for emergency/active response purposes or for weather alerts regarding school activities. If you

do not receive these alerts and wish to do so, contact the central office at (937) 766-6000, and

ask that your name be added to the list.

2020-2021 school Calendar

The 2020-2021 school calendar can be found on the front page of the district website under the

“District” tab (see below): Please note, this calendar has been amended due to the current health crisis in

the U.S. and is not the same calendar originally distributed in May, 2020.

Medications

In order to have any kind of medication distributed to your child at school, a Medication

Administration Consent Form must be completed and turned into the office prior to the distribution

of the medication. (This includes over-the-counter medicines, cough drops, antacid tablets, etc.)

Forms are available upon request in the office or from the Nurse, Mrs. Joyce Hull.

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In Case You are in Need or Know of Someone Who is!

Keeping You Informed!

Kindergarten KRA Testing Moved to October for 2020-2021 School Year New Teacher Orientation August 12 All Day—Admin. Offices First Day for Teachers/Staff August 17 Meetings/Room Preparation—All Day Elementary / MS Open House August 19-21 By Appointment—more information will be

forthcoming.

MS Orientation (Students Only) August 24 Middle School Orientation - Students only More information will be forthcoming, as COVID has altered the normal procedure for this event.

Freshmen / New Student Orientation * August 24 Time--TBD

(Students Only) First Day of School (Students) August 26 Welcome Back! * This is for 9th graders and those High School students new to the district.

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FYI--Back to School Tax Holiday!

Ohio's sales tax holiday for back-to-school shopping will take place this weekend. Shoppers can

make purchases without paying state sales tax for:

Clothing items costing $75 or less;

School supplies costing $20 per item or less; and

School instructional materials priced at $20 per item or less.

The holiday opens at 12 a.m. Friday, Aug. 7, and ends at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9.

Refer to this link for further information: Sales Tax

Holiday https://tax.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/tax/help-center/faqs/sales-and-use-tax-sales-tax-holiday/sales%20and-use-tax-sales-tax-holiday

Update on the State of Sports and Extra-Curricular Activities

As of the date of this publication, and changes occur daily, the following activities are classified

as non-contact sporting events: Volleyball, Cross-Country, and Golf. Football is the only activity hosted

by Cedar Cliff Local School District that is categorized as a “contact” sport.

This distinction is important, as non-contact sports have been given the “green light” to proceed

with competition between school districts. As of the date of this publication, contact sports have not been

given this opportunity. This does not mean to imply that the opportunity will not take place, it simply

means the order has not been lifted to allow events at this time.

Cedarville MS/HS students participating in these events are currently practicing and preparing for

a Fall season with the hope and expectation the season will proceed. However, it is likely the season may

look “different” or shortened in some fashion.

Regarding spectators: Sporting events are considered “Social Gatherings” and the district is still

awaiting guidance as to the amount (if any) spectators will be permitted to attend the events. While this is

important for the community and parents, the district’s perspective remains, student participation is the

utmost important factor in a season—spectators are important, but the administration wants the students’

ability to participate to be the main focus on everyone’s mind. We understand how students feel about

these events and want to do everything we can to ensure the safest and most positive experience is had by

our students as we progress throughout the school year.

We will do our best to pass along any information we can. For the most up-to-date information,

community members are encouraged to go the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s website at:

https://ohsaa.org/

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Work Permits

All work permits are issued from the Cedar Cliff Board of Education offices.

Applications are available in the hallway outside the Superintendent’s office. Please

contact Martha Campbell, Secretary to the Superintendent, to assist you in having

your work permit completed.

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Notification Rights Under FERPA

You have a right to review your student's records by making a written request to

the principal. The request will be honored within a reasonable period of time (no more

than 10 working days). Exceptions to this time frame may be made, if necessary, during

school vacation periods. Review of student records may be prohibited by a court order

or other legally binding document.

Review of your student’s file shall take place in the presence of the school

principal or his designee. The request for review of your student’s records will be placed

in the student file as well as the date, time, and a list of individuals present at the time of

the review.

A nominal copying fee will be charged if copies of student records are needed,

and a receipt will be provided.

Parents and adult students have the right to amend a student record when they

believe that any of the information contained in the record is inaccurate, misleading, or

violates the student’s privacy. A parent or adult student must request the amendment of a

student record in writing and if the request is denied, the parent or adult student will be

informed of his/her right to a hearing on the matter.

Parents have the right to inspect upon request any instructional material used as a

part of the educational curriculum for their student. See Board Policy 2416 for the

procedures for making such a request. Any parent or student who believes that the

School District has failed to comply with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act

("FERPA") or the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment ("PPRA"), may file a

compliant directly with the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of

Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20202-8520. This Notice will

be transmitted to disabled parents and students or to non-English speaking parents and

students in a format designed to accommodate their disability or in their native language.

Feel free to contact the Office of the Superintendent at (937) 766-6000 with

questions regarding parental rights with respect to FERPA or for any assistance.

2020-2021 School Building Starting and Ending Times

School Hours Elementary 8:00-2:50 Middle School 7:55-3:00 High School 7:55-3:00

These are amended times from previous years. Please be aware!

Upcoming August Events

Wednesday, August 5 Cedarville Elementary Summer Intervention Greene County Fair

8:00am—HS GOLF (A) @ Dayton Christian High School (DC Invitational) Thursday, August 6 Cedarville Elementary Summer Intervention Greene County Fair

4:30pm—HS Golf (A) @ Greenon High School Friday, August 7 Cedarville Elementary Summer Intervention Greene County Fair

10:00am—HS Golf (A) @ Triad High School Saturday, August 8 Greene County Fair

12:00pm—HS Golf (A) @ Greeneview High School (Ram Invitational @ Locust Hills) Monday, August 10 Cedarville Elementary Summer Intervention Music Boosters

4:30pm—HS Golf (A) @ Southeastern HS Tuesday, August 11 Cedarville Elementary Summer Intervention

Fall Sports Pictures 4:30pm—HS Golf (A) @ Greeneview High School 5:00pm—HS Volleyball (A) vs. Milton Union High School (Scrimmage)

Wednesday, August 12 Cedarville Elementary Summer Intervention

5:00pm--MS Volleyball (A) vs. East Clinton High School (Scrimmage) 5:00pm—HS Volleyball (H) vs. Legacy Christian High School (Scrimmage)

Thursday, August 13 Cedarville Elementary Summer Intervention

4:30pm—HS Golf (A) vs. Catholic Central High School Friday, August 14 Cedarville Elementary Summer Intervention

Saturday, August 15 10:00am—JV Volleyball (A) Houston High School (Scrimmage) 10:00am-- MS Volleyball (H) vs. Wilmington (Scrimmage) 10:00am—HS Volleyball (A) vs. Lehman Catholic High School (Scrimmage) 1:30pm—HS Golf (A) vs. Tecumseh High School (Arrow Invitational @ Windy Knoll)

Monday, August 17 First Day for Teachers Regular Board Meeting (7:00)

4:30pm—HS Golf (H) vs. Madison Plains High School Thursday, August 20

4:30pm—HS Golf (H) vs. Mechanicsburg High School Monday, August 24

4:30pm—HS Golf (A) vs. Northeastern High School 5:30pm-- JV Volleyball (H) vs. Bradford High School 5:30pm--MS Volleyball (A) vs. Greeneview High School 7:00pm—HS Volleyball (H) vs. Bradford High School

Tuesday, August 25

4:30pm—HS Golf (H) vs. Fairbanks High School 5:30pm-- JV Volleyball (A) vs. Greenon High School 7:00pm—HS Volleyball (A) vs. Greenon High School

Wednesday, August 26 First Day of School

5:30pm--MS Volleyball (A) vs. Southeastern HS Thursday, August 27

5:30pm--JV Volleyball (H) vs. Madison Plains High School 7:00pm—HS Volleyball (H) vs. Madison Plains High School

Friday, August 28

7:00pm—(Tentative) HS Football (A) vs. Tri-Village HS Saturday, August 29

10:00am—HS Cross-Country (A) @ Milton Union High School (Milton Union Invitational) Monday, August 31

4:30pm—HS Golf (H) vs. West Jefferson High School 5:30pm--MS Volleyball (H) vs. Greenon High School

Tuesday, September 1

4:30pm—HS Golf (H) vs. Greenon High School 5:30pm--JV Volleyball (A) vs. Southeastern HS 7:00pm—HS Volleyball (A) vs. Southeastern HS