LOVELAND MAGAZINE

News and Events from the Loveland, Ohio Area

Without fear or favor
Since 2004

Tag: loveland tigers

  • I grew up with White Privilege in Loveland in the 80’s and 90’s

    I grew up with White Privilege in Loveland in the 80’s and 90’s

    As I reflect on what I can do as white woman in America to change our society, I am overwhelmed with doubt and uncertainty.

    by Trinity Mahan Walsh

    I grew up with White Privilege that I didn’t even know I had. Growing up in Loveland in the 80’s and 90’s, it was a pretty white town. I went to Loveland Schools for 13 years, with maybe 3-5 classmates of color. It never seemed weird to me, but I did notice. We really didn’t talk about race in my house. Not because we were afraid to talk about it or my parents are bad people (they are loving and wonderful), but it just wasn’t anything we “needed” to consider. White privilege.

    Trinity Mahan Walsh grew up in Loveland, Ohio, graduated LHS in 1994, and is now a Guidance Counselor at Highlands High School in Fort Thomas, Kentucky.

    I often thought about what it was like for my black classmates to live in Loveland. To be a very, very small minority in our school and town. It wasn’t until I was in high school, I had my first real black friend. Yep… HIGH SCHOOL! I wasn’t as brave as I am now to ask the question, “How do you feel living here?” I am sure it was hard, but I am grateful for her seeing me as “safe” and accepting. I wanted to be her friend because she is awesome and not because she is black.

    I’ve always considered myself to be accepting of everyone and the least racist person around. As I reflect on my friend choices over the years, I must have known early on who had the same types of life views as me, as I am still friends with several of those people today. But still, my circle of friends doesn’t include too many people of color. I’d like to believe that this isn’t a choice, it’s just how my life is, but now as I really think about it, it is a choice.

    I live in a predominantly white community and work at a predominately white school. Searching out friends of color to say that I have diverse friends seems disingenuous. I don’t avoid it, my life is such that I very rarely travel in circles where my diversity factor could even be expanded.

    Why did I move to a town much like where I grew up? Comfort. Is that bad to say? I don’t think so. We all want to live where we are comfortable. Does it help expand our understanding of each other as human beings? Not necessarily, but we can choose to find other ways to make sure we do find ways to understand each other. 

    I don’t mind if I look “stupid” because I can guarantee that these white faced teenagers have the same questions as me.

    Trinity Mahan Walsh and fellow educator Elise Carter

    One of the greatest blessings in my life has been my friendship with Elise Carter. You guessed it… she’s black. She and I have the most frank and honest conversations about what it’s like to be a person of color, especially working in a predominately white school.

    She has opened my eyes to issues that I didn’t know existed… not because I chose to look the other way, but as a part of my white privilege I never had to consider. And, what I consider to be the most powerful part of our friendship is that we OPENLY talk about race issues.

    At the high school where we work, she and I often have very honest and frank conversations in front of students. I don’t mind if I look “stupid” because I can guarantee that these white faced teenagers have the same questions as me. And, like I was in high school with my friend, they are too ashamed and scared to ask the questions. So I will ask for them.

    I want them to see that she and I can have real conversations about what it’s like to be a person of color in America. She will be the first to tell the students, “I am not a spokesperson for the black community, but I will give you my perspective.” Probably one of the most powerful conversations we can have with the students is to tell them, it’s OK to call her black. She IS black! “Guys, you can call me black. I know I am! Are you offended when I call you white?” This is a common phrase from her. 

    One of the most heartbreaking conversations that we have ever had is about “the talk.”

    One of the most heartbreaking conversations that we have ever had is about “the talk.” As we started that conversation, I honestly and truly thought we were having a totally different conversation. I couldn’t understand why she was talking to me about giving her then 5-year-old son “the talk.”

    As a mother of white boys “the talk” is about sex.

    As a mother of black boys “the talk” is VERY different. It was never something I had ever thought about; I didn’t have to. And if you are like me, and are still wondering what “the talk” is, ask yourself these questions: Do I have to warn my son about the way he approaches a white woman? Do I have to warn my son that when he is running, it might appear that he is not just getting exercise? Do I have to warn my son that when he is 16 and gets pulled over for going a few miles over the speed limit, the situation can turn ugly very, very quickly? Do I have to warn my son that when he is hanging out with his white friends and things get rowdy, he might be the one blamed for anything that might go wrong?

    And this list goes on and on. 

    I want to break into tears when I think about anyone ever wanting to harm her son just because of the color of his skin. It hurts me to my core. He is kind, loving, inquisitive, and hilarious – just the same as any other 7-year-old boy. And it isn’t just her son, but every mother’s black son.

    If you’re a dumb white girl with white privilege like me, start asking questions.

    I am grateful every day that she is willing to be my friend and continues to educate this white girl about the reality of the world. If you’re a dumb white girl with white privilege like me, start asking questions. IT IS OK! We can only get better as a society when we start asking each other what it’s like to be them. You may not be able to relate personally, but you certainly can try and understand. 

    I am trying, and when I don’t hit the mark, I hope that someone calls me out on it.

    I wasn’t raised to be racist or not racist. And now recognizing that white privilege, I am trying to make some different choices in raising my children with open and honest conversations about the world we live in. I am trying, and when I don’t hit the mark, I hope that someone calls me out on it. 

    You may judge what is happening with riots in your own personal way. You don’t have to agree with what is happening around our country, but just consider the why.

    As I reflect on what I can do as white woman in America to change our society, I am overwhelmed with doubt and uncertainty. What I know I can do is to keep having those open and frank conversations with Elise and with our students. I am an educator, and that is my gift. This is one way that I can use it. You don’t need to be a trained educator though to have these conversations, too.

    I’ll leave you with this one last thought…

    I’ll leave you with this one last thought… do not surround yourselves with people only like you. Your face-to-face personal interactions, but even easier on social media. I am “friends” with so many different types of people with so many different perspectives on the world on social media. I actively choose to not de-friend people who have sometimes very different views than me. Yes, sometimes what they post makes me mad – raging mad – but I cannot grow as a person if I do not read what they are saying, consider it, and then come to my own conclusion. The greatest gift we can give each other is agreeing to disagree, but at the same time agree to just be good and loving humans. 

    If you need some more perspective on the issue of “the talk,” take a few minutes to read this powerful article:

    When My Beautiful Black Boy Grows from Cute to a Threat

  • [Video] LHS’s Class of 2020 Celebrated in a Moving Assembly Through Loveland!

    [Video] LHS’s Class of 2020 Celebrated in a Moving Assembly Through Loveland!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – Many High School Seniors across Ohio didn’t get the graduation they had in mind this year, so several High Schools are now taking the initiative to honor their Seniors through virtual graduation ceremonies or moving assemblies through the town in which the High School is located. Loveland High  Seniors recently celebrated with a moving assembly that took place on Friday, May 22nd at 7 PM.

    During the 2020 LHS Senior Class Moving Assembly each Senior’s “quaranTEAM” drove through previously selected Loveland neighborhoods so that the community could not only celebrate the Seniors but also wish them luck with their future endeavors! The moving assembly began at LHS, while of course keeping in mind Ohio’s social distancing requirements, and proceeded using 1 pre-planned 52 minutes route with 4 sections through all of Loveland. Below is the route the LHS “quaranTEAM’s” took last Friday!

    The Entire Route Map

    Loveland was covered in orange and black as many LHS Seniors wearing their cap and gown and their “quaranTEAM” paraded throughout the community in their decorated cars! LHS’s Seniors were encouraged to be creative when decorating their cars so many vehicles included the grad’s name on the window followed by something “Loveland” inspired, military flags, or the college the grad would be attending in the Fall. As the procession made its way through Loveland several Seniors and their teams “laid” on the horns and cranked their radios in celebration of the class of 2020!

    Loveland Magazine was lucky enough to capture the 2020 LHS Seniors in action during the entirety of their moving assembly last Friday as it crossed the Loveland Bike Trail in Historic Loveland! Join us in congratulating LHS’s class of 2020 by enjoying the moving assembly video below!

  • “My Voice, My Choice”student recognition for creating a culture of kindness at Loveland

    “My Voice, My Choice”student recognition for creating a culture of kindness at Loveland

    Loveland, Ohio – “My Voice, My Choice” is a Loveland District student recognition program where teachers and staff nominate students who, “contribute to a more compassionate culture at their school through their good deeds and kind words.” The program is focused on creating a positive school climate by encouraging students to “stand up for their peers” in both words and actions. It is an anti-bullying initiative.

    The honorees are typically brought to half-court or the 50-yard line at a varsity basketball or football game so they can be given a certificate and be held in high esteem before a large crowd.

    This Spring, because of all of the many COVID 19 changes in the practices of the District, the awards were announced at last night’s “Zoom/YouTube” Board meeting when a video that was produced by high school counselor and Chair of the program Jamie Gordon was “Zoomed” for people who had tuned in to watch the meeting.

    Because the meeting was only available to viewers in “real-time” while the meeting was taking place, Loveland Magazine brings it to you so the students and their parents can now watch it at their leisure and share it with friends and family. The District deletes their meeting videos as soon as they are adjourned.

    During the meeting there was also discussion about the students before and after the video was shown. That discussion is also now available because LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV captured the meeting and it is now archived. You can watch the entire Board meeting HERE on our Facebook Page or see just the “My Voice, My Choice” discussion at 1:08 minute of our video.

  • Update: Loveland “All About Art” Summer Art Camp

    Update: Loveland “All About Art” Summer Art Camp

    by Kim Richardson

    Greetings to our Loveland “All About Art” Summer Art Camp families, past and present. We hope this article finds you and your family safe and healthy during this unprecedented time. Although we are sad to cancel art camp this year, we look forward to holding camp next summer in 2021 with the same “Spaced Out” theme we had planned to use this year.

    Kim Richardson is an”All About Art” Summer Camp Art Instructor and Loveland Parent

    The Loveland “All About Art” Summer Art Camp, which is sponsored by the Loveland Elementary PTA, has been holding art camps every summer since 2005, serving Loveland area school children in Kindergarten through 8th grade. Several talented certified art educators with years of classroom teaching experience have helped run this camp over the last 15 years. And next summer… Jennifer Drydyk, Aly Mardin, and myself will be teaching art camp. 

    Art projects and art adventures center on a new theme each year. Our art camp is a great way for young artists to extend their artistic learning into the summer months by enjoying visually enriching adventures and experiences as they explore the many intriguing aspects of art through sculpture, painting, drawing, mixed-media, printmaking, video, and so much more!  

    NEW for NEXT SUMMER’S ART CAMP

    Next year we are going to open up art camp to 9th graders for one year only. These students are part of the current 8th grade class who are missing out on their last year of eligibility for this year’s summer art camp. Parents-if you are interested in getting your K-8th grade child on a waiting list for next summer, please email Jennifer Drydyk at jdrydyk@mac.com.

    A chair design project

    Although the camp is sponsored by the Loveland Elementary PTA, the camp is available for all children regardless of the child’s school district. However, Loveland City School children will have priority registration.

    Until we meet again, please stay safe, healthy, and artistically creative! We look forward to seeing you next summer in 2021.

    Click to learn more about the Loveland Elementary PTA and how you can support them.

    Like and Follow the Loveland Elementary PTA on Facebook

    The Loveland Elementary PTA exists because…

    They go beyond books & budgets

    School fees and district budgets only go so far. Through our members and volunteers, we organize, fund and put on many of the activities and events our kids get to experience when they aren’t in class, so they develop a love of learning and have fun at the same time.

    Engaging our kids takes more than activities and assemblies. And we all agree, Loveland Tiger Teachers and staff are the best! So we also provide funds to each of them for use to add classroom supplies, school necessities and curriculum enhancements. Last year we were able to give over $24,000 to our teachers and staff.

    They go full S.T.E.A.M. ahead

    This year at LPS and LES, our kids will have a chance to ‘MAKE’ learning fun in the new technology enabled Maker-spaces at each school thanks to funds provided from the LEPTA!

     

    They make every day great

    From the day each new school year begins, the LEPTA is there to inspire our kids love of fun and learning. We help our teachers and staff bring subjects to life and engage every child in new ways.
    Each year, the funds we raise through the LEPTA FUNdraisers help us provide the following

    • Author visits
    • COSI on Wheels
    • Field Trips:
      • Zoo
      • Green Acres
      • Parky’s Farm
      • And more…
    • Kona Ice Truck
    • Roy G. Biv
    • Science Day
    • Career Day
    • Track and field day
    • Roller Skating day
  • Good Morning America features Loveland school bus drivers

    Good Morning America features Loveland school bus drivers

    Loveland, Ohio – The aerial video greeting from Loveland school bus drivers to the Class of 2020 shot by Loveland High School art and photography teacher Jim Barrett has been featured by ABC News Internet Ventures and GMA.

    GMA said the school bus drivers at Loveland City Schools in Ohio honored students in an “epic way.”

    Watch below or Click Here View Video on GMA

    The original publishing of the video by the Loveland Schools came with this message from the District Transportation Department:

    Congratulations to Loveland High School class of 2020! On behalf of Loveland Transportation, we salute you for achieving a very important milestone! Stand tall and be proud of yourselves.

    “Some of us have been around long enough to transport these kids since Kindergarten and some of us have only been working with the district for a few years, but the one thing we all have in common is the love for our students. This is a huge accomplishment and anyway we can show them some love, we will do it. So here’s to the Class of 2020.  Your bus drivers are proud of all of you.”
    – Jennifer Bloom Bowman

    “Being a school bus driver is not just a job, it’s an adventure ! The love for our students is unconditional and each one will always hold a special place in our hearts. Every story, every hug, every laugh and every tear with them are memories and sometimes even lessons. To the kids of the past, the present and the future, this is for you!” – Michele Winter

    Thank you to the following bus drivers for helping make this project happen:

    Lisa Moorhead
    Michele Winter
    Jennifer Bloom Bowman
    Tara Patterson Hollandsworth
    Kelli Czachor Ramsey
    Lori Schultz-Stulz
    Lindsay Centers

  • A video message from LHS Senior William Heard about his $socks4homeless2020 sock drive

    A video message from LHS Senior William Heard about his $socks4homeless2020 sock drive

    Loveland, Ohio – Instead of having a graduation party, Loveland High School Senior William Heard decided, “that because of the virus” he should hold a sock drive to lift the spirits of those who have few material possessions.

    For the graduation year of 2020, William would like to collect 2,020 pairs of new socks, or more, by the time he turns 18.

    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.

     

    Hello!

    I just wanted to give a quick update about the sock drive so far. I have currently received from the Loveland community 307 pairs of socks and $1,203 in monetary donations, of which I used to purchase 1,356 pairs of socks and I

    cassie mattia,

    The deadline to bring socks/donations is on June 11 and I plan on delivering socks between Monday, June 15 and Saturday, June 20. Thank you so much for helping push the word out!

    Sincerely,
    William Heard

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

    Venmo

    Paypal

    Cashapp: $socks4homeless2020

  • It’s “Official” – Loveland school levy fails

    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

  • The awards, honors, and scholarships for the LHS Class of 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

  • Introducing the honors awarded the LHS Class of 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

  • Treasurer Hawley talks about State funding reductions for the Loveland District

    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 10th 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.