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It’s “Official” – Loveland school levy fails

Loveland, Ohio – The March 17 Primary Election results have now been reported by the Hamilton, Clermont, and Warren County Board of Elections.

On election night the preliminary result was 3,844 votes for the levy and 5,766 against the levy. After counting all votes there are 57 additional votes for the levy and 104 additional votes against the levy.

Below, are now the “Official” final results as reported by each BOE.

Hamilton County

For the Levy – 1,806

Against the Levy – 2,971

Clermont County

For the Levy – 2,018

Against the Levy – 2,795

Warren County

For the Levy – 77

Against the Levy – 104

TOTAL

For the Levy – 3,901

Against the Levy – 5,870

May 20, 2020
The awards, honors, and scholarships for the LHS Class of 2020

Academic Top 10

# 1 Ashley George Ohio State University

# 2 Sofia Dillhof University of Notre Dame

# 3 Nami Canon Ohio State University

# 4 Anthony Jerdack Ohio State University

# 5 Caroline Wagner Ohio State University

# 6 Nathan Dygert Ohio State University

# 7 Simon Grome Ohio State University

# 8 Jack Scuterud Ohio State University

# 9 Nathaniel Broelmann Ohio State University

# 10 Erin Dickman Ohio State University

Principal and Faculty Awards

Citizenship, Service, and Spirit Awards

The recipients of the Citizenship, Service and Spirit Awards are selected by the high school faculty. The Citizenship Award recognizes a student for his/her respectful and responsible behavior on campus and in the school community. This student maintains positive relationships with both peers and adults alike. The Service Award recognizes a student for his/her dedication to serving the needs of our school community. This student utilizes his/her talents, passions and expertise to make a difference on campus and in the community. This is a young person who truly takes pride in helping make a better world for others. The Spirit Award recognizes a student for his/her pride in all things Loveland Tigers. This student is involved in spirited support of school and extracurricular activities that affect the student body. A positive and upbeat attitude and a love of LHS is evident.

Citizenship Award – Sam Greenberg

Service Award – Jordan Sovik

Spirit Award – Kate Garry

Principal’s Awards

The recipients of the Principal’s Awards exemplify respect, responsibility, integrity and pride in actions that make LHS a better place. They are motivated to support students and faculty in building a school community that fills a need. They are role models and leaders of the Tiger Family.

Outstanding Female – Jillian Hayes

Outstanding Male – Collin Hedgepeth

Principal’s Award – Erin Dickman

Outstanding Senior Achievement

Faculty members in each academic area have selected senior students who have performed with a high degree of excellence in a particular area throughout their high school career. The students have been active participants in the classroom and have gone “in depth” into the subject for which they will receive the award. Students receiving this high recognition have been selected by an evaluation of all facets of their performance.

Applied Technology andBusinessEducation Department Award -Josh Anness

Art Department Award – Hannah Powers

Language Arts Department Award – Elizabeth Oh

Mathematics Department Award – Sam Greenberg

Music Department Award – Jett Stevens

Science Department Award – Zachary Case

Social Studies Department Award – Sam Greenberg

World Languages Department Award Perseverance Award – Joey Jeffcott

Perseverance Award – Donnie Riffle

National Merit Scholarship

Based upon CollegeBoard PSAT results, students are commended in recognition of their outstanding academic promise. Commended Students and Finalists are named on the basis of a nationally applied Selection Index score that may vary from year to year.

Commended Students for the Class of 2020

Zachary Case, Ashley George, Simon Grome, Daniel Hinrichsen, and Samantha James

National Merit Scholarship Winner/Ray Shaw Memorial Scholarship by American City Business Journals

Clare Daumeyer

The Overture Awards

The Overture Awards is a program that recognizes, encourages and rewards excellence in the arts among Greater Cincinnati students in grades 9-12. Its mission is to encourage arts education as an integral part of a student’s academic experience and to create an environment that encourages training in, and appreciation of the arts. The Overture Awards Competition is the area’s largest solo arts competition and offers awards in six artistic disciplines: creative writing, dance, instrumental music, theatre, visual art, and vocal music.

Visual Art: Tristan Dumas and Hunter Talbott

Creative Writing: Caitlin Elam

Semi-Finalist in Creative Writing: Elizabeth Oh

Great Oaks Pathways Graduates

The Great Oaks Pathway is awarded to seniors who have successfully completed all three Project Lead the Way courses offered at Loveland High School. These courses are a part of the Engineering Pathway offered in partnership with Great Oaks Career Campuses.

Tom Behling, Tyler Hughes, Ben Kavouras, Christian Kuhn, Ben Rupe, Matthew Rychlik, and Hunter Talbott.

Loveland City School District Awards

Student Representatives to the Loveland Board of Education are chosen from the junior and senior class by the Board Members and serve a one year term. The students attend Board of Education Meetings and give a monthly Board report. Their presence provides student input to the Board and allows these students to improve the educational process for all Loveland students.

Keller Walls

Scholarships

“Let Us Never Forget” Seth Mitchell Scholarship

Seth Mitchell was born in Charlotte, North Carolina and lived in that area until he was 11 years old. As a child, Seth participated in sports and school activities and loved water sports such as skiing and tubing. As a young boy, Seth wanted to be a pilot. Seth had a huge collection of planes. He even had them hanging from the ceiling in his room. Seth was usually seen with some sort of plane or helicopter on his shirts. When Seth and his family moved to Loveland, he continued his dream of flying by taking his first “solo” flight at the Waynesville airfield. Seth flew in a glider plane for his12th birthday. The instructor let Seth take the controls as the glider sailed through the air. He was hooked! At Loveland Middle School, Seth got his first taste of organized football. Seth graduated from Loveland High School where he played football, pole vaulted for the track team, was a member of the student council and was elected Class President for 1997. Seth called Loveland home because that is where he developed lifelong friendships and the skills, talent and character traits that guided his life. One turning point in Seth’s life was getting involved with Student Venture, the high school ministry of the Campus Crusade for Christ. Seth found his spiritual compass and developed leadership skills that would serve him well in future endeavors.

After high school, Seth enrolled at Virginia Tech and in the ROTC program. Seth was a member of Echo Company. He earned an ROTC scholarship after his freshman year and became the Executive Officer of Golf Company during his senior year. He was a member of the German Club, Ring Design Committee and member at large for the Class of 2001. After graduation, Seth entered the United States Marine Corps Officer Candidate School. Upon graduating from OCS,2nd Lt. Mitchell was assigned to Camp Lejeune, NC. While at CampLejeune, he served tours in Okinawa, Haiti and Iraq as part of an infantry unit. Seth was promoted to1st Lt. and on November 1st 2005, he achieved the rank of Captain.

Growing up he had dreamed of becoming a pilot but did not qualify for the military aviation program due to his eyesight. After corrective eye surgery, and while stationed at Camp Lejeune, Captain Mitchell achieved his private pilot’s license. Due to his determination, Captain Mitchell beat long odds and was awarded a Marine Aviation training spot after four years in the Marine Corps. Captain Mitchell began flight training in Pensacola, Florida, earning his wings in May 2007. He later qualified to fly the AH-1 Super Cobra Helicopter. Captain Mitchell had achieved and was living his dream of serving his country as a Marine aviator. Captain Mitchell loved to fly and did so during his second tour in Iraq in 2008. In very typical fashion, Captain Mitchell volunteered to report early to duty in Afghanistan to assist a unit short on manpower.

Captain Seth Mitchell, 30, was killed October 26, 2009, when two helicopters collided while supporting combat operations in Afghanistan’s Helmand province. Captain Mitchell was assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based out of Camp Pendleton, California.

The “Let Us Never Forget” Seth Mitchell Scholarship is awarded to the applicant who most embodies the spirit of Seth Mitchell.

A word from Seth’s parents, Steve and Connie Mitchell

The 2020 Let Us Never Forget Seth Mitchell/Mitchell Family scholarship recipient has a spirit similar to that of Seth Mitchell. She has a “do something” attitude, a strong work ethic, knows no stranger and is kind to all. She is not afraid to fail in pursuit of her dreams and is strong in the face of adversity.

We are proud to present the the $3,500 Let Us Never Forget Seth Mitchell/Mitchell Family scholarship to Jordan Collins.

Loveland Schools Foundation – Captain Seth Mitchell Memorial Scholarship

A 1997 graduate of Loveland High School, Captain David Seth Mitchell embodied the ideals of loyalty, friendship and selflessness. After graduation Seth attended Virginia Tech and ultimately attained his dream of becoming a pilot in the United States Marine Corps. He died serving his country in Afghanistan in October, 2009. Many of his classmates and friends in Loveland have established this scholarship in his memory. It goes to a graduating senior who embodies the same qualities as Seth, those of service and determination.

A word from the Scholarship Committee

The goal of the Capt. Seth Mitchell Scholarships and the HERO 5K is to keep Seth’s spirit and story alive in the Loveland Community. Seth’s spirit of service and friendship was endearing to all and allowed him to befriend everyone he met. Seth also set high goals and was determined to accomplish them. We are blessed each year with the opportunity to meet a handful of Seniors that embody the same characteristics. This year there were many worthy candidates, all of which would be worthy selections. We wish them all, and the rest of the Seniors best of luck on the next steps of their journeys.

This year’s winner was described by their references as being “self-motivated and goal oriented… and a fine example of caring more about their teammate than herself.” In her own essay, she describes her time with NEST. While she proclaims she has room for growth, during her time with NEST she has “become more self-aware, grown more connections, and come to a better understanding of the different demographics and home life circumstances in her community.” She also states how far a smile or a hug can go for someone. A motto that Seth would truly support.

She will be attending Ohio State University in the fall and would like to continue her service in the future with Doctors Without Borders. A goal we know she will achieve.

This year’s winner of the $3,500 Capt. Seth Mitchell Scholarship is Caroline Ginder.

Loveland School Foundation – Libby Walker Scholarship

Elizabeth “Libby” Walker was a graduate of Loveland High School who believed in the value of education and ethical business practices. Libby and her husband, Karl, owned and operated multiple, successful businesses based in Loveland, Ohio. This award is presented in Libby’s memory with the hope that the recipient can use the funds to realize their own success in the business world. This scholarship is awarded to a female student with a business oriented career path.

A $1000 Libby Walker Scholarship was awarded to Keller Walls.

Loveland Schools Foundation – Member Endowed Scholarship

This scholarship is made possible through the generous gifts to the Foundation by its members. Believing that a strong academic background puts better employees in the workplace and builds community responsibility, this scholarship is awarded for one year to a graduating senior of Loveland High School attending an accredited two or four year college or university or technical school.

A $1,000 Member Endowed Scholarship was awarded to Ashley George.

Loveland Schools Foundation – Smith/Shannon Scholarship

The Smith/Shannon scholarship is funded through a grant from Michael Shannon, M.D., class of 1967. Dr. Shannon, a Neurosurgeon who lives and maintains his medical practice in Zanesville, Ohio, is a founder and ex-officio board member of the Loveland Schools Foundation. Special mentors influence many of us at some time during our lives. One of Dr. Shannon’s mentors was Virgil Smith, a custodian at Loveland High School, and supervisor of the young part time employee at the school, Mike Shannon. A special bond developed between employer and employee and Dr. Shannon credits Mr. Smith with teaching him the discipline and work ethic that helped him excel throughout the rigors and demands of medical school and his profession.

The Smith/Shannon Scholarship of $1000 is for a Loveland High School graduating senior who plans to attend an accredited institution of higher learning and who has committed to a selected course of study, demonstrated an ability and desire to complete that course of study and has maintained an average to above average GPA may apply for this scholarship. All criteria being equal, selection is based on the need of the student.

A $1,000 Smith/Shannon Scholarship was awarded to Caroline Ginder, Katlyn Kramer, and Emily Molitor.

Loveland Schools Foundation – Stefan P. Talley Scholarship

Stefan P. Talley was described by many as a big teddy bear. He never met a person he didn’t like and always had a smile on his face. He loved sports, especially football and played for Loveland. He can be described as an inspirational and loving person that touched so many lives of so many people. By establishing this scholarship, his memory, his hopes and his dreams will be kept alive. Stefan attended the University of Cincinnati where he majored in and appreciated history. He enjoyed life, traveling, and learning new things. He also auditioned for the hit television show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, where he made it on the show and became a winner! Stefan was taken early from us as a result of cancer. Stefan was such an inspiration and had an amazing and positive impact on his friends, classmates and those who knew him.

The $1,000 Stefan P. Talley Scholarship was awarded to Samantha James.

Loveland Schools Foundation – Robert and Pauline Verkamp Williams Scholarship

This scholarship is made possible through the generous commitment to education by the Bryan Williams Family in memory of his parents Robert and Pauline Verkamp Williams. The scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior from Loveland High School who will be attending an institution of higher learning at an accredited university or college.

A $1,000 Verkamp Williams Scholarship was awarded to Jordan Collins.

Little Miami River Chamber Alliance Scholarship

The Little Miami River Chamber Alliance Scholarship is given annually to a student who demonstrates a personal commitment to community, reflected in their activities and local service projects.

The $1,000 Little Miami River Chamber Alliance Scholarship was awarded to Kirstin Thomas.

Loveland Education Association Scholarship

The Loveland Education Association Scholarship is given annually to a graduating senior who best exemplifies those qualities held in high esteem by the teachers of Loveland City Schools. Each teacher in the school district contributes annually to this fund. This year the fund allows for the awarding of two scholarships of $1500.

A $1,500 LEA Scholarships were awarded to Samantha James and Keller Walls.

Chuck Schmidt Memorial Scholarship

The teachers and staff at LHS are pleased to offer two $1000 non-renewable scholarships. Funds were raised through donations and various fundraising events. We are pleased to name our scholarship after our distinguished colleague, Mr. Chuck Schmidt.

A $1,000 “Chuck Schmidt” Scholarship was awarded to Rosa Karl-Chacon and Sophia Raby.

The DeWitt Scholarship

The purpose of this scholarship is to recognize a graduating senior who exhibits both academic excellence and extracurricular participation at LHS and/or in the community. The scholarship is a $500 non-renewable scholarship sponsored by Loveland Middle School staff and LMS student council.

The $500 DeWitt Scholarship was awarded to Aaron Earl.

Catherine and Walter Klein Valedictorian and Salutatorian Scholarship

The Catherine and Walter Klein Valedictorian and Salutatorian Scholarship is to recognize the many years of hard work and focus on academics necessary to attain the honor of Valedictorian and Salutatorian. Through the generosity of Catherine and Walter Klein, the recipients will receive a scholarship of $1,000.

The $1,000 Valedictorian Scholarship was awarded to Ashley George.

The $1,000 Salutatorian Scholarship was awarded to Sofia Dillhoff.

Heaven’s Game Impact Scholar Scholarship

Heaven’s Game Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to improving, enhancing and impacting the lives of those battling cancer. The Impact Scholar Award recipient is one who anticipates giving back to their community and embraces the mantra “leave it better than you found it”. This scholarship is in memory of John Dombroski who inspired the core value of the foundation.

A word from Chris Dombroski

Heaven’s Game was founded in honor of the passing of my father, John, from colon cancer in 2018. This year’s winner embodies his commitment to education and the passion for impacting the world that we look for in our Impact Scholar. Clara Planner, a graduate of Loveland High School’s class of 2020, has excelled in her career at Loveland carrying a 4.22 GPA in the classroom and showcasing her leadership and skillset on the volleyball court while volunteering at NEST in her free time. However, what sets her apart is her commitment to her family. When reflecting on an impactful person in her life, Clara told a heartfelt and moving story about her dad and how much he has inspired her through his passion, commitment, and dedication to everything he does in his life. In her words, her dad, “has shown me the epitome of determination, selflessness, and having a loving nature looks like”. Clara embodies the values of my father and has a very bright future ahead of her and we couldn’t be more proud to select her as this year’s Impact Scholar. Next fall, Clara plans to attend Ohio State University to study biology, the same university her Dad received his undergraduate education from.

The $1,000 Impact Scholar Scholarship was awarded to Clara Planner.

Shelter Insurance Foundation Scholarship

The Shelter Insurance Foundation Scholarship is offered through the generosity of Shelter Insurance.

The $2,000 Shelter Insurance Foundation Scholarship was awarded to Keller Walls.

Loveland Initiative Tracy Johnson Scholarship

The Loveland Initiative Tracy Johnson Scholarship honors the memory of Tracy Johnson. Throughout her struggle with Muscular Dystrophy, Tracy demonstrated courage and perseverance to further her educational goals. In honor of Tracy’s lifelong dream to attend college, this scholarship carries her name.

A word from the Scholarship Committee

On behalf of The Loveland Initiative Scholarship Committee, it is our pleasure to inform you that you have been selected as the 2020 recipient of the Tracy L. Johnson Scholarship. Like Tracy, you demonstrate a strong interest towards education and in serving your community. Congratulations on your achievements.

The $1,500 Loveland Initiative Tracy Johnson Scholarship was awarded to Keller Walls.

Loveland Woman’s Club – Viola Phillips Scholarship

Viola Phillips was Loveland’s first woman mayor. She was dedicated to the total spirit of Loveland. Viola was especially interested in community service and the quality of life for all residents. The Loveland Woman’s Club wishes to perpetuate her memory by awarding this scholarship to a graduating student who has demonstrated outstanding service to others a scholarship.

The $2,000 Viola Phillips Scholarship was awarded to Vivien Terselic.

Loveland Woman’s Club – Woman’s Club of Loveland Scholarship

The Loveland Woman’s Club has been an active organization in Loveland since 1912. For over 50 years, they have provided scholarships to deserving young women and young men residing in the Loveland area.

A $2,000 Woman’s Club of Loveland Scholarship was awarded to Sofia Dillhoff.

Loveland Music Boosters Scholarships

The Loveland Music Boosters takes great pride in awarding scholarships to four deserving seniors. Presentation of these awards is made possible through the fundraising efforts of the students and members who have toiled diligently throughout the school year. The winners are selected based upon their school achievements in the past four years, demonstration of their learned skills, and consensus review by their principal instructors.

The $1,000 Music Boosters Scholarships were awarded to Jett Stevens and Vivien Terselic.

Andrew and Marie McAuley Memorial Scholarship

The Andrew and Marie McAuley Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior member of the Loveland High School Chamber Orchestra. The scholarship is sponsored by Megan Pedicini, LHS Class of 2019, in memory of her maternal grandparents who dedicated their lives to hard work and the service of others. An orphan from age seven, Andrew was able to further his higher education through the synthesis of his own perseverance and the athletic and academic scholarships he was fortunate to receive at the generosity of others. Marie, whose father was a pianist before immigrating to the U.S., found great joy and meaning in the tones of the piano, and it is her genuine love for music that motivated Megan to engage in music of her own. Megan created this scholarship to recognize those students committed to excellence in both academics and music.

A word from Megan Pedicini

On behalf of Megan Pedicini, LHS Class of 2019, I would like to present the Andrew & Marie McAuley Memorial Scholarship. Andrew and Marie dedicated their lives to hard work and the service of others, and each of them displayed a genuine love for music that inspired and enabled their children and grandchildren to pursue music of their own. A $1,000 scholarship is dedicated in their name to recognize students committed to excellence in academics and music in the chamber orchestra at LHS.

The $1,000 Andrew and Marie McAuley Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Simon Grome.

Loveland Stage Company Creative Arts Scholarship

The Loveland Stage Company Creative Arts Scholarship is awarded to a high school graduate who resides in the Loveland City School District, or attends Loveland High School, or is the offspring of a Loveland Stage Company member. The Loveland Stage Company wishes to encourage and support local young talent by awarding this scholarship to a senior planning to further their education in pursuit of a career in the Creative Arts. They must also have demonstrated the ability to succeed academically in college, by being in the top third of their graduating class.

The $1,000 Loveland Stage Company Creative Arts Scholarship was awarded to Jett Stevens.

Kovacs Family Foundation Drama Scholarship

The Kovacs Family Foundation Drama Scholarship is presented through the Loveland Music Boosters to a graduating senior who has participated in the Loveland High School Drama program.

A $1,000 Kovacs Family Foundation Drama Scholarship was awarded to Vivien Terselic.

LHS Ski & Snowboard Club Scholarship

The LHS Ski & Snowboard Club Scholarship recognizes and honors outstanding club members for their high scholastic achievements and active participation.

A $500 LHS Ski & Snowboard Scholarship was awarded to Sofia Dillhoff, Drew Moore, and Benjamin Wenger.

Dawn DeHart Memorial Scholarship

This Scholarship is in memory of Dawn DeHart, who graduated from Loveland High School in 1983. Dawn was athletically involved at Loveland and the Montana State University, setting many records in Track and Field that still stand today. She was also a member of the National Honor Society. Dawn was friendly, outgoing, and had a great work ethic. This award personifies the attributes of Dawn DeHart.

The $500 Dawn DeHart Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Zoe Ott.

Loveland Youth Football and Cheerleading Scholarship

The Loveland Youth Football and Cheerleading Scholarships are awarded to one senior football player and one senior cheer organization member, each pursuing higher education. Academic achievement and community involvement are considered.

A $1,000 Loveland Youth Football and Cheerleading Scholarships were awarded to Megan Korniak and Ben Morrison.

Loveland Youth Basketball Association Scholarship

The Loveland Youth Basketball Association Scholarship is awarded for participation in the LYBA program. Loveland Youth Basketball honors scholarship and encourages an athlete to be well rounded in their school and in community activities. LYBA hopes that through athletics our recipient has benefited by learning lifelong lessons on and off the court.

The $1,000 Loveland Youth Basketball Association Scholarship was awarded to Samantha James.

Loveland Youth Soccer Association Scholarship

The LYSA Scholarship is awarded annually to two graduating high school seniors from the Loveland area who played, refereed and/or volunteered for Loveland Youth Soccer Association (including Loveland Storm Football Club). The recipients are determined by essays describing how LYSA has positively influenced their lives.

A $500 Loveland Youth Soccer Association Scholarship was awarded to Jeremy Massung and Clara Planner.

Loveland Athletic Boosters – Stanley L. McCoy Sr. Scholarship

The Stanley L. McCoy Sr. Scholarship is in honor of Stan McCoy, Sr. for his outstanding contribution to the Loveland City Schools and for his dedication to the children of Loveland. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. McCoy served as Assistant Superintendent, an LHS Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, teacher, football coach, mentor and friend. Mr. McCoy’s love, dedication and support to the athletes in Loveland will continue through this scholarship presented in his name. This scholarship is funded through donations to the Stanley L. McCoy, Sr. Scholarship Fund in conjunction with the Loveland Athletic Boosters.

A $1,000 Stanley L. McCoy Sr. Scholarship was awarded to Clara Planner and Cole Harter.

Loveland Athletic Boosters – Robert M. Williams Scholarship

This scholarship is in honor of Robert M. Williams for his contribution within the Loveland community. Mr. Williams served the community in many capacities. But his love of people and his involvement for athletics for his children, grandchildren and friends will live on with this scholarship. Robert M. Williams always knew the score of life and was dedicated to the individuals within these sports and not always the scoreboard. The Robert M. Williams Scholarship is for all Senior Athletes and Senior Sport Managers within the Loveland High School Athletic Department. As a reflection of how “Bob” lived his life, the recipient should possess a strong moral character that is reflected by their leadership, school spirit and positive attitude toward their teammates and coaches.

A $1,000 Robert M. Williams Scholarship was awarded to Anna Svitkovich and Sean McElveen.

Loveland Athletic Boosters Scholarship

The Loveland Athletic Boosters awards scholarships to graduating boy and girl student-athletes from Loveland High School. The recipients have competed at the varsity level for at least two years, have exhibited good sportsmanship and citizenship, and have shown the ability to succeed in the scholastic or technical area as indicated by grades, attitude and determination. This award is given to individuals who have shown the greatest improvement in his/her overall performance both in the classroom and on the field.

A $1,000 Loveland Athletic Boosters Scholarship was awarded to Jacob Cotsonas, Carson Deer, Zoe DeWitt, Erin Dickman, Samantha James, and Katlyn Kramer.

Athletic Department Awards

OHSAA Scholar Athlete Award

As part of the continuous quest to promote and encourage the pursuit of excellence in the classroom, the OHSAA Scholar Athlete Award is awarded to a senior boy and a senior girl with the highest GPA and who has received a minimum combined 4 varsity letters in at least 2 varsity sports.

The recipients of this award were Kaitlyn Andrews and Collin Hedgepeth.

OHSAA Archie Griffin Sportsmanship Award

The Ohio High School Athletic Association “Archie Griffin Sportsmanship Award” is presented to high school student-athletes who promoted and displayed exemplary sportsmanship while participating in interscholastic athletics.

The recipients of this award were Jillian Hayes, and Jacob Cotsonas.

The OHSAA/NFHS Award of Excellence

The National Federation of High Schools and the OHSAA have combined to sponsor an Award of Excellence to be presented to senior athletes who exhibit qualities that embody exemplary sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity.

The recipients of this award were Claire Massey and Nate Holman.

Courageous Student Award

The Courageous Student Award is given to a student who has overcome adversity and displayed tremendous courage against overwhelming odds to get themselves back on the playing field of competition.

The recipient of this award was Kate Garry.

Academic Pins and Medals

An ACADEMIC PIN is granted for an average of 3.5 to 3.99

A BRONZE medal is granted for an average of 4.0 or higher for the first time

A SILVER medal is granted for an average of 4.0 or higher for the second time

A GOLD medal is granted for an average of 4.0 or higher for the third time

Also watch this video Introducing the honors awarded the LHS Class of 2020

May 16, 2020
Introducing the honors awarded the LHS Class of 2020

Loveland, Ohio – On Wednesday, Loveland High School held a “virtual” Senior Awards Ceremony to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class. The celebration usually takes place annually before a standing-room crowd in the Ron DeWitt Auditorium.

Principal Peggy Johnson

The evening usually starts with a ceremonial procession of the scholars and they are greeted by the applause of their families and teachers. Then, Principal Peggy Johnson calls 10 of those seniors to sit in chairs on the stage under pennants representing the college or university each will attend. One-by-one the students are announced ending with the “Top Senior” of the graduating class.

This is also the night when students and parents receive the surprise announcement of awards and scholarships presented by local individuals, community groups, and even state and national honors. Hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarship dollars are announced on this nite.

The movie below was created by Loveland Magazine from a slide show the school put together to celebrate the accomplishments of their Senior Class.

Loveland Magazine sends our congratulations to the students, parents, teachers, counselors, and all the other staff who support these students. And, to Principal Johnson, her assistants, and supporting staff.

This has been a wonderful group of scholars to be around this year and we so appreciate the hospitality and respect they demonstrate toward us and their fellow students. Thank you, parents and teachers, for nurturing such an incredible group of young adults! We look forward to hearing about their promising future endeavors.

Read about the graduation plans for the Class of 2020, keeping in mind that the plan has evolved and has been tweaked, such as now allowing 6 family members to attend.

The LHS 2020 “Safe” Graduation will be May 23

May 15, 2020
Treasurer Hawley talks about State funding reductions for the Loveland District
Loveland, Ohio – The first week of May, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced budget cuts to balance the State budget.

Loveland City School District Treasurer Kevin Hawley

Due to the economic impact of COVID-19, Governor DeWine said that $775 million in reductions to Ohio’s General Revenue Fund are needed for the remainder of the Fiscal Year 2020 which ends on June 30.

DeWine said that Ohio is mandated to balance its budget each year, and in addition to identifying areas of savings, the following budget reductions will be made for the next two months:
- - Medicaid – $210 million
  - K12 Foundation Payment Reduction – $300 million
  - Other Education Budget Line Items – $55 million
  - Higher Education – $110 million
  - All Other Agencies – $100 million
Loveland Magazine reached out to the Loveland City School District Treasurer Kevin Hawley asking him to comment on the impact of the State cutting revenue to the District.

Thank you for reaching out. I can confirm pieces of this information. For your convenience, I have attached the list from The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) outlining the data for all districts in the state of Ohio. (K-12_Education (2)-1) The amount of the state revenue reduction is $1,010,855. The percentage you are referencing is how much the reduction in revenue is to our ODE calculated overall operating expenditures as stated on the form attached. The percentage decrease of our state revenue for this year is just below 8% and is a decrease of 2% from our overall operating revenue.

The current state funding cuts are for this fiscal year (July 2019 – June 2020) and will be deducted in the next couple months on our last three state payments. School districts receive their annual state revenue in 24 payments, twice a month. We have been instructed that these payments will be taken out equally from our second May payment and both of our payments in June to finish out the fiscal year. At this point in time there is not clarification from the state of Ohio as to whether there will be further revenue cuts for next year. The state’s budget is primarily funded through sales and income tax and those numbers are announced monthly around the 10^th of every month. I have not seen the April numbers at this point in time but my guess is that this current reduction is due to those numbers being much lower than projected pre-COVID. The May and June reports on sales and income tax revenue will be very revealing for how the state’s budget may be impacted next year and ultimately how that impacts K-12 education.

The Governor has stated that there is federal funding that may benefit local school districts. At the present time, there is approximately $300k in additional money through the state from the CARES Act. Ultimately, this will help with the reductions in state funding but does not close the gap.

We were anticipating news of potential revenue cuts from the state but were unsure of the size or which fiscal year it would impact. We are always evaluating ways to make our district more efficient and find ways to save and we will continue to do that work. Having just received the specific amount of the revenue cuts Wednesday morning (May 6) we were not factoring this decrease into the budget for next year’s planning and the Board of Education has not had the opportunity to discuss any potential cuts due to this. As we work through the overall financial impact and implications of this budget reduction, recently failed levy and other factors due to COVID-19 the Board will discuss if any future budget cuts are necessary.
May 15, 2020
OJFS to distribute SNAP benefits to 850,000 students across Ohio

“PANDEMIC EBT PLAN”

Families who relied on free or reduced-price meal programs when school was in session will receive approximately $300 to purchase healthy and nutritious foods to feed their children

Columbus, Ohio – Governor Mike DeWine announced that the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (OJFS) has received approval from the United States Department of Agriculture for its Pandemic EBT plan. The Pandemic EBT program was included in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act of 2020.

The approval will allow OJFS to distribute SNAP benefits to 850,000 students across Ohio who relied on free or reduced-price meal programs when school was in session to have access to a hot, nutritious meal. The benefits will be mailed directly to students, and families do not need to apply to be eligible.

Families will receive approximately $300 to purchase healthy and nutritious foods to feed their children.

May 12, 2020
Donate $socks4homeless2020

Dear Loveland Magazine Readers,

I’m William Gibbs-Heard, a graduating senior at Loveland High School, and instead of having a graduation party, I decided, because of the virus, that I should hold a sock drive.

For the graduation year of 2020, I would like to collect 2,020 pairs of new socks, or more, by the time I turn 18 on June 11th.

I want to do this in an effort to help those who are homeless and less fortunate than us. Due to all of the depression and fear surrounding the community in times like these, I want to be able to be a light in someone’s life by providing something to them that is so simple, yet very necessary.

I am accepting money donations through Paypal, Venmo, and Cashapp (all of which are listed below), as well as setting up a drop-off point at my house, 1205 W Main Street, Loveland, OH 45140.

Venmo

Paypal

Cashapp: $socks4homeless2020

Thank you for your time,

William Gibbs-Heard

For more information and to find out how you can help

EMAIL socks4homeless2020@gmail.com

May 9, 2020
[Video] Loveland School Board meeting of April 30

Loveland, Ohio – The Loveland Board of Education met on April 30.

Here is the meeting agenda: BoardDocs® Pro

Here are the LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV videos – Part 1 and 2.

May 7, 2020
Loveland Board of Education to fill 2 Vacancies
Loveland, Ohio – Loveland City School District board member Art Jarvis did not attend the April 30 Board meeting but instead resigned before it started. At the beginning of the meeting, President Kathy Lorenz read a letter Jarvis sent to the Board. You can watch a video clip of her reading the letter below.

Board member Ned Portune attended the meeting and resigned his position after it was over. You can read the statement he sent to Loveland Magazine the next morning below.

Both resignations were effective immediately and follow the apparent overwhelming defeat a vote on an operating levy announced the day before. (Loveland Levy apparently fails by wide margin)

According to a press release issued by the District the day after the meeting, the vacancies are expected to be filled at the May 12 board meeting.

The release also said that the board is now seeking candidates to replace Jarvis and Portune. It says that applicants should submit a “notice of interest” by Email to Treasurer Kevin Hawley (hawleyke@lovelandschools.org) by 5 PM on Monday, May 4.

Applicants should include biographical information, address, affirmation of voter registration, and a short statement describing qualifications and reasons for filling the role of Board Member of the Loveland City School District. Both of these positions would be for service through December 2021.

Remaining Board members are Dr. Kathryn Lorenz, Board President, Michele Pettit, and Eileen Washburn.
For Immediate Release. 5/1/2020

It is with sadness that I acknowledge my departure from the Loveland City Schools Board of Education. My resignation is for personal reasons, and should not be interpreted as a negative reflection of my faith in, and support of, the district leadership.

As I have said previously, students and teachers alike can’t be successful if they aren’t in the right culture of care, support, learning, and high expectations set by their administrators. And as such, our administrative team and educational staff have raised the bar of expectations at Loveland well beyond “average.” The improvements our district has experienced, and the achievements our students have accomplished over the past several years have been tremendous. Superintendent Dr. Amy Crouse and Treasurer Kevin Hawley are tireless champions for our students, and perform their roles with exceptional grace and integrity, as do Dr. Kathy Lorentz and the rest of the Board. I am grateful to have worked with this team.

As community members, we should all take pride in what we have accomplished together over the past several years, and the reputation for excellence that has been achieved by our schools. This success is only possible with support. I know I am proud to have been a part of a list that includes:

moving key state report card grades to A and B from C, D and F,

improving from 433rd (out of 610 districts) to 22nd in ODE’s Value Added rankings,

LES students performing on average 20% higher than the State average in Reading/Math for AIR and exceeding MAP projections, on average, at 20% higher than the National average,

100% of all third graders meeting the Third Grade Reading Guarantee for 3 consecutive years,

LIS students scoring 20% higher than the state average in 3 of 5 areas, and 15% higher in all 5,

8th grade foreign language curriculum increasing from 150 students receiving HS credit to 227 students, and foreign language exposure in 7th grade increasing from 0 students to 185,

LHS increasing AP offerings to 24 courses serving 428 students, up from 291 in 2016, and our students earning AP Honor Roll for 2 years (a distinction given only to the top 3% of districts in the US and Canada), with 80% scoring a 3 or higher,

Over 40% of our LHS seniors earning college credit through AP or CCP offerings,

LHS adding 20 new elective offerings, and adding Transition to Work programming with multiple community sites,

Developing 6-12 College and Career counseling programming, and adding class-leading Teaching, Business and IT programs,

LHS ranking in Cincinnati Magazine improving to 8th out of 80 local high schools, and receiving the Momentum Award from ODE for the last three years.

And this doesn’t begin to address the improvements in gifted and special education services, social-emotional support improvements, or individual awards and accolades our students and teachers themselves have received across all of our schools. Add to that the readiness and excellent implementation of remote learning which has kept our students learning during a time no one could have predicted. Our administrators and educators have truly moved the bar higher for our students, and we should all celebrate that accomplishment.

Today, the district, its staff, students, and parents are entering an unprecedented time in our history. The right thing to do is to be positive, helpful and supportive in keeping our schools operational and our students successful. I believe we as a community will do that moving forward.

It has been an honor and privilege to have had the opportunity to serve our schools and this great community with this Board. I will continue to be a fervent supporter of Loveland Schools and our students.

-Ned Portune
May 3, 2020
U. S. News: Best High Schools in Ohio
U. S. News has released its annual report on the nation’s high schools.

Ohio had 732 school districts supporting 902 high schools in the 2017-18 academic year. Students are assessed via mathematics and English proficiency tests.

Loveland High School is ranked 55th within Ohio out of 902 schools.

Ohio high school students must earn at least 20 credits in various subjects, including four credits of English language arts, four of math, three of science, and three of social studies. High schoolers in Ohio must also learn economics and financial literacy to graduate, as well as take two or more semesters of fine arts, according to the Ohio Department of Education.

How U. S. News Rank the Best High Schools »

Quick Stats for Loveland H.S.

Grades

9-12

Total Enrollment

1,443

Student-Teacher Ratio

18:1

Overview of Loveland High School

Loveland High School is ranked 55th within Ohio. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The AP participation rate at Loveland High School is 50%. The total minority enrollment is 7%, and 11% of students are economically disadvantaged.

#1,745 in National Rankings

Overall Score 90.19/100

Top Ranked Cincinnati Metro Area Schools
Top Ranked Ohio Schools
1. 1. #1Ottawa Hills High School
  2. #2 Walnut Hills High School
  3. #3 Bexley High School
  4. #4 Solon High School
  5. #5 Indian Hill High School
  6. #6 Wyoming High School
  7. #7 Chagrin Falls High School
  8. #8 Mariemont High School
  9. #9 Dublin Jerome High School
  10. #10 William Mason High School
  11. # 14 Turpin High School
May 3, 2020
Autism Society recognizes Loveland Schools’ Mary Frees as “Unsung Hero”

Mary Frees (front center) was recognized for her work serving individuals with autism and their families at “Faces of Autism” on March 5. Left to right: Heidi Terselic, Donna Ernst, Jane Miller, Lara Ferrer, Joe Frees, Taylor Reid, Mary Frees, Dr. Kathryn Lorenz, Dr. Amy Crouse, Helen Jones, Michelle Grafflin and Jennifer Forren.

Loveland, Ohio – The Regional Autism Advisory Council (RAAC) of Southwest Ohio celebrated its 20^th anniversary in March with “Faces of Autism”- an event presented in collaboration with Autism Society Greater Cincinnati to recognize autism “ambassadors and unsung heroes” in the region. Mary Frees, an intervention specialist at Loveland Elementary School (LES), was among those honored for their work serving individuals with autism and their families.

“When I learned about this special recognition, I was shocked, but felt so valued for doing what I love,” said Frees. “This just motivates and energizes me to continue to accomplish more for my students with autism and other special needs. My students make my job enjoyable each day and push me further to continue to learn more about this ever-changing field of special education.”

The Faces of Autism Unsung Hero nominees were selected for going above and beyond the expectations of their jobs in advocating for acceptance, community inclusion, relationship building, and community impact. 12 educators were recognized, two of whom represent public school districts – Loveland and Sycamore Schools.

“Mary is an outstanding educator who works tirelessly for her students, going above and beyond on a daily basis,” said LES Principal Jen Forren. “She works to ensure that her students and their families have an excellent experience at LES, both academically and socially. She established an ambassador program that matches her students with other students in the building to help them work on their social skills and it has been very impactful for everyone involved.”

Faces of Autism was presented by RAAC and the Autism Society Greater Cincinnati in partnership with several other organizations, including Cincinnati Children’s, Linden Grove School, and the Heidt Center of Excellence by The Children’s Home, among others.

About the Autism Society Greater Cincinnati and the Regional Autism Advisory Council (RAAC)

The Autism Society Greater Cincinnati is a leading resource and advocate for the local autism community, working to improve the lives of all who are affected by autism through education, support, and services. RAAC leads community partnerships to plan, develop, and implement a vibrant continuum of services that meets the lifelong needs of individuals with autism, their families, and those who serve them. The Advisory Council facilitates task forces on a range of subjects, such as early intervention, educational identification, and adult services.

May 2, 2020