INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – Youngsters at Independence Primary School have been enjoying technical and artistic challenges.
In their design technology classes, teacher Kerry Morosko challenged the children to create swing sets with construction equipment to combine imagination and problem solving skills.
Meanwhile, in art with teacher Mike Gruber, they explored color schemes by creating vibrant outdoor scenes. Both projects encouraged students to express their ideas in unique and meaningful ways.
Mental health education recognized at Independence High School
INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – National mental health non-profit Erika’s Lighthouse has recognized Independence High School for its work with student mental health.
The non-profit focuses on mental health education and suicide prevention resources at no cost and has given Independence High School an honorable mention in educating and empowering students.
The recognition celebrates schools that are committed to equipping students with skills-based programming to support their mental health.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our teachers, staff, and families, who work together to make mental health a priority for our students,” said Principal Mike Janatovich. “Together, we are helping our students feel seen, supported, and empowered to take care of themselves and each other.”
During the last school year, the school implemented Erika’s Lighthouse’s tier-1 mental health curriculum and classroom education. These lessons are designed to help students better understand mental health, reduce stigma, and build resilience.
As part of the recognition process, Independence High School successfully integrated Erika’s Lighthouse Classroom Education, which focuses on reducing stigma around mental health, encouraging students to talk openly about feelings and reinforcing that seeking help is a sign of strength.
The program also focuses on building skills by providing age-appropriate resources to help students manage stress, cope with anxiety, and develop healthy strategies, and creating an inclusive school community by fostering a culture where students feel safe to reach out for help for themselves or their peers.
A school statement said: “Independence High School has earned the honorable mention award for empowering students through the Erika’s Lighthouse Club. The club is open for all students to join and teaches them how to recognize warning signs, promote getting help and referring friends to a trusted adult in time of need. The students spend time learning and performing activities to promote mental health wellness, while reducing stigmas.”
“Erika’s Lighthouse believes every student should have the knowledge and tools they need to care for their mental health. By offering comprehensive, evidence-informed programming to schools across the country, the organization helps districts like Independence Local Schools promote early identification of mental health disorders and suicide prevention in a proactive, supportive way.”
Independence Local Schools selects Garmann Miller as facilities planning partner
INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – Nationally recognized architecture and design firm Garmann Miller has been chosen to work with Independence Local Schools in developing its long-term facilities planning.
The collaboration will include scheduling and programming studies, along with recommendations to guide the district’s future decision-making.
“This partnership with Garmann Miller represents an important step in our commitment to cultivating a legacy of excellence,” said Superintendent Kelli Cogan. “By thoughtfully assessing our facilities and planning for the future, we are ensuring that our students and staff have updated spaces and infrastructure that support today’s classroom and building needs.”
“Our role is to listen, learn, and collaborate,” added Eric Baltzell, Garmann Miller chief executive. “We’re excited to work alongside Independence Local Schools to develop solutions that reflect the district’s vision and values.”
A school statement said: “The work directly supports the district’s strategic vision, which emphasizes aligning resources and expertise to foster collaborative growth. Modern, well-planned facilities play a key role in that mission by ensuring that learning, teaching, and community spaces continue to meet the evolving needs of students, staff, and families.”