The creativity and talent of Lorain City Schools students were on full display at this year’s Young Authors Conference, held Tuesday morning at Elyria High School’s Performing Arts Center and hosted by the Educational Service Center of Lorain County.

Among hundreds of participants from across the county, Imani Musawwir, a 5th-grade student at Helen Steiner Rice Elementary, earned top honors—Best in Show for 5th Grade Illustrator—for her imaginative piece Firefly and His Journey Into Space.

Imani was one of several talented students from Lorain recognized as finalists in this year’s competition, including:
 

• Madelyn Evans-Hilson, 3rd Grade Author, Memoir of a Nerdy Dog – Larkmoor Elementary
• Ariel Chiorazzi, 4th Grade Author, Wasted Years – Helen Steiner Rice Elementary
• Toni Gonzalez-Sanchez, 5th Grade Author, The Deep Depth – Helen Steiner Rice Elementary
• Brycen Howell, 6th Grade Author, The Council of Protectors – General Johnnie Wilson Middle School
• Sebastian Medina, 3rd Grade Illustrator, Field Trip to the Moon – Larkmoor Elementary School
• Aniylah Barker, 4th Grade Illustrator, Christmas Night – Toni Morrison Elementary School
• Lana Thompson, 6th Grade Illustrator, Freedom – General Johnnie Wilson Middle School
   

In total, nearly 125 Lorain students attended the event from Helen Steiner Rice, Larkmoor, Toni Morrison, General Johnnie Wilson, Longfellow, and Southview. Each student was selected through a rubric-based process that celebrated creativity, originality and storytelling.

The conference gave students more than recognition—it gave them inspiration. They had the opportunity to learn directly from two professionals who shared their personal journeys and creative advice: Jenn Bishop, award-winning author of five novels for young readers, and David Spencer, illustrator of The Epic Adventures of Huggie and Stick and founder of Mischief Factory.

Bishop encouraged students to draw from their own lives, sharing how her love for storytelling began with doodling characters and inventing backstories as a child in Massachusetts. Now living in Cincinnati and cheering on the Bearcats and Reds, she reminded students that “stories can come from anywhere—even a pet rock.”

Meanwhile, Spencer brought energy and laughter to the room with a live storytelling and illustration session. As he sketched in real-time, students shouted out creative ideas, helping him build a brand-new story on the spot. His message: embrace your imagination, and don’t be afraid to be playful with your art.

As our young authors and illustrators returned home, they carried with them more than awards and accolades—they brought back renewed confidence, bold ideas and the powerful reminder that their stories matter.

MEDIA

Lorain City Schools has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for their outstanding support and commitment to music education. Now in its 26th year, the Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement for providing music access and education to all students.

Two awards are given each year: Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) for school districts and the SupportMusic Merit Award (SMMA) for individual school sites. Both reach K-12 schools and districts throughout the U.S. and offer opportunities to increase awareness and support for music programs. Over 1,000 districts and individual school sites (public, private, charter, parochial) were recognized for having the highest commitment to producing exceptional music programs.

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Lorain City Schools answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs. Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by the leading arts educational research firm, WolfBrown.

Lorain City Schools serves approximately 6,000 students across 14 schools in Lorain, Ohio. The district's comprehensive music education program begins in preschool and continues through high school, offering instrumental, vocal, and general music instruction. The district's award-winning ensembles regularly perform throughout the community and participate in regional and state competitions.

About The NAMM Foundation
The NAMM Foundation is the charitable arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, the global trade association for the music products industry. The foundation works to remove systemic barriers that limit access to music-making and career pathways in the music industry. By investing in bold ideas and innovative solutions, we strive to build inclusive and thriving musical communities. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.

Larkmoor Elementary’s youngest students had a special opportunity to dream big during Kindergarten Career Day — and this time, the spotlight was on some of Lorain’s real-life heroes.

Representatives from the Lorain Police Department and Lorain Fire Department visited the school to share how their careers are all about helping others, staying safe and making a difference in the community. For many of these kindergarteners, it was their first up-close look at the people — and vehicles — behind the uniforms.

The police officers brought a patrol car and gave students a tour, letting them peek inside and explore the tools officers use to keep the city safe. The fire department rolled up in a fire truck, complete with sirens and gear, sparking wide-eyed wonder as students learned how firefighters respond to emergencies.

School counselor Sharon Willis, who organizes the event, explained that experiences like these help students see how careers in public service — like firefighting and law enforcement — are all about helping others, and that seeing real-life heroes up close can spark dreams of doing the same one day.

More than just a fun field trip across the parking lot, Career Day planted seeds of aspiration and service in the minds of these young learners. Whether it's putting out fires, protecting neighborhoods or simply offering a helping hand, our kindergarteners are learning early that there are many ways to make the world a better place.

Thank you to the Lorain Police Department and Lorain Fire Department for inspiring the next generation of community helpers!

LORAIN - School Resource Officer Dave Kusznir paid a special visit to Helen Steiner Rice Elementary today to talk with second-grade students about a very important topic: bullying and how to prevent it.

With warmth and humor, Officer Kusznir led an engaging conversation that helped students understand what bullying looks like, why it happens, and how they can respond in kind and constructive ways. From the start, he encouraged students to speak up and share their thoughts.

“What do you think a bully is?” he asked. Hands shot up around the room as students chimed in: “Someone who’s mean to everybody,” said one child. “Someone might be jealous,” added another. “Maybe something’s going on at home,” one student thoughtfully offered.

Kusznir praised their insights and used real-world examples to help them better understand how bullying affects others. He acted out a scenario where a student moves to a new school and is mocked every day for his appearance. “How do you think that would make me feel?” he asked. The students quickly responded: “Really bad.”

The conversation turned to what students can do when they see someone being bullied. Suggestions included talking to a trusted adult, offering kindness, standing up for others, and including everyone in activities—like inviting a new classmate to play soccer during recess.

“Do you know what it means to accept someone?” Kusznir asked. “It means to include them. It can make a big difference when someone feels left out.”

Officer Kusznir also talked about the concept of a bystander—someone who sees bullying happening but doesn’t do anything. “If someone is getting pushed every day and no one speaks up, how do you think that makes them feel?” he asked. The students agreed that being silent can make things worse and that standing together as a class can help stop bullying.

The conversation even touched on name-calling and how words can hurt, especially when they’re aimed at someone’s family. “Why do you think people get upset when someone talks about their parents?” Kusznir asked. One student responded, “Because they care for you,” while another added, “You don’t want people being mean to them.”

Perhaps one of the most powerful lessons Officer Kusznir shared was about not giving bullies “free rent in your head.”

“When someone says something mean to you, you can choose not to let it get to you,” he said. “Don’t give them the power to make you upset.”

The session ended with laughter, learning, and a renewed sense of community among the students. Kusznir’s visit was part of an ongoing effort by Lorain City Schools to foster safe environments and support students’ emotional and social growth.

“You’re all in this school together,” Kusznir told them. “So let’s make it the best it can be—by treating each other with kindness, respect, and understanding.”
 

MEDIA

Lorain, OH — While nearly 2,000 people packed Lorain High School’s Performing Arts Center and gymnasium Tuesday night for a town hall hosted by the Ohio Democratic Party, two Titans made sure student voices were heard on a national stage.

Lorain High School senior Liz Alvarez and junior Sie’Aira Casey interviewed Minnesota Governor Tim Walz ahead of the event for a segment produced by TV20, the district’s in-house media production team. The interview gave students a rare opportunity to question a sitting governor on topics ranging from public education to civic leadership.

The student journalists were guided by LHS teachers Steven Cawthon, who helped them craft their questions, and Terry Traut, who directed the TV20 segment. The Governor, a former teacher and high school football coach, immediately connected with the students and praised their professionalism.

“Thank you for doing this in a high school,” Walz said as he took the stage later that evening. “The only other place I’m more comfortable is in my living room.”

Education remained front and center during the evening. As Ohio debates potential cuts to public school funding and increased support for private school vouchers, Walz spoke passionately about the role of public schools in strengthening the middle class. “You can either buy school buses or prison buses,” he said. “You make the choice.”

Former Ohio Supreme Court Justice Melody Stewart moderated the discussion. Among the audience were educators, students, families, and local community members eager to share their concerns and ask questions.

Although the event featured a high-profile political figure, the moment belonged to Lorain’s students, who demonstrated what it means to be informed, articulate and engaged.

Friday morning, the two students sat down with LHS Principal Melissa Cheers to talk about their experience. You can view that video here.

As Lorain continues to shine a light on student achievement through real-world opportunities like this, the message is clear: the future is not only coming—it’s already here, and it's wearing Titan blue.

Larkmoor Elementary second-grade students had the hands-on opportunity to learn about careers in conservation and environmental science during a special visit from representatives of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). The event was part of the Career Day Speaker Series hosted by school counselor Sharon Willis.

The guest speakers included Tanya Allen from the Division of Wildlife and Aquatics, Geologist Molly Hunt and Heather Sheets from the Division of Forestry. Each speaker shared insights into their careers, the tools they use, and the impact their work has on Ohio’s natural resources.

ODNR’s mission is "to ensure a balance between the wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all." The department consists of various divisions, including State Parks & Watercraft, Wildlife, Forestry and Geological Survey, among others.

Molly Hunt captivated students with an interactive presentation about geology. She demonstrated the use of a hand lens, a tool geologists use to examine rock particles closely. Students were intrigued as she pulled out maps, field notebooks, safety glasses and rock bags, explaining how geologists conduct field studies to learn more about Ohio’s land and natural history.

When asked what geologists study, students eagerly guessed "dinosaurs" and "bones." Hunt explained that while paleontologists study fossils, geologists focus on rocks, minerals and the Earth’s processes.

"Scientists don’t always have the answers right away," she said. "We make educated guesses and learn through research and fieldwork."

Heather Sheets introduced students to the importance of Ohio’s forests and the role of forestry professionals in maintaining them. She engaged students by asking them how trees benefit people and the environment. Responses ranged from providing clean air to offering shade for picnics. Sheets emphasized that forests are essential habitats for wildlife and play a crucial role in water conservation.

Tanya Allen discussed careers in wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting Ohio’s diverse species. She encouraged students to consider how human actions affect wildlife and explained how ODNR’s Division of Wildlife works to preserve habitats and maintain ecological balance.

At the end of the presentation, students had the opportunity to ask questions about careers in ODNR. They learned that ODNR professionals collaborate to study and protect natural resources across Ohio. Whether through geology, forestry or wildlife conservation, the department offers a wide range of career paths for those passionate about nature.

The Career Day Speaker Series continues to provide Larkmoor Elementary students with valuable exposure to different professions, helping them envision their futures and discover new interests. With ODNR’s visit, students left with a greater appreciation for Ohio’s natural resources and the people dedicated to protecting them.

MEDIA

Lorain, OH – Award-winning author Mindy McGinnis visited Lorain High School’s Book Club on February 26 to share insights into her writing process, inspirations and literary career. The event, held in the school’s media center, provided students with the opportunity to engage with McGinnis, who is known for her gripping young adult novels that explore complex themes with authenticity.

McGinnis, the author of books such as Not a Drop to Drink, The Female of the Species, and A Madness So Discreet, spoke candidly about her experiences as a writer. She discussed her fascination with storytelling, emphasizing the importance of originality in literature despite the notion that all stories stem from seven fundamental plots. She encouraged aspiring writers to embrace their unique voices and explore fresh perspectives.

During her talk, McGinnis also shared humorous anecdotes about her audiobook listening habits and long road trips, illustrating how she continuously absorbs and analyzes narratives. She reflected on her upbringing in rural Ohio and how it has influenced her storytelling, particularly in crafting settings that highlight small-town life and rural poverty.

Students had the chance to ask questions and discuss their favorite books with the author, who emphasized perseverance in both writing and life. She also introduced her latest novel, Under This Red Rock, a murder mystery set in a cave system, explaining how real-life events and observations often inspire her stories.

McGinnis, a former school librarian, remains committed to making literature accessible to young readers. Her visit to Lorain High School reinforced her dedication to fostering a love of reading and storytelling among students.

The book club presented McGinnis with a Lorain High School Book Club t-shirt and writing pad.

For more information about Mindy McGinnis and her work, visit www.mindymcginnis.com.

MEDIA

LORAIN – Students in Steven Cawthon’s American National Government class at Lorain High School had a unique opportunity to engage with local government firsthand when Mallory Santiago, Lorain’s city prosecutor, visited their classroom.

Santiago spoke to students about the structure of government and her role in the city’s legal system. She provided insight into both civil and criminal law, offering students a real-world perspective on how the justice system operates at the municipal level, while highlighting the importance of local government and how the municipal court plays a critical role in serving the community.

“It was a very productive engagement,” Cawthon said. “Ms. Santiago interacted very well with the class and answered a variety of student questions.”

After her discussion, students had the chance to ask questions, making for an interactive and engaging learning experience.

Her visit to Lorain High School provided students with a firsthand look at civic leadership in action and encouraged them to take an active interest in government and the legal system.

“It was a great experience for our students,” Cawthon said. “We appreciate Ms. Santiago taking the time to share her knowledge and experiences with them.”

Santiago is a lifelong Lorain resident and graduate of Admiral King High School.

MEDIA

Lorain City Schools is taking proactive steps to ensure student and community safety by equipping staff with life-saving skills. Recently, district bus drivers participated in a QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Prevention Training, led by Safety Officer Santiago Ruiz.

The training, developed by the QPR Institute, teaches individuals how to recognize warning signs of a mental health crisis, intervene effectively and connect those in need with professional resources. 

The initiative aligns with the district’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for students, staff, and the broader Lorain community.

Rueben Figueroa, Executive Director of Safety & Security for Lorain City Schools, joined Officer Ruiz in congratulating the newly certified bus drivers, who now have the knowledge and tools to respond to potential crises.

Because bus drivers interact with students daily and build relationships with them, having the training to recognize signs of distress equips them to provide support when it’s needed most.

By investing in QPR training, Lorain City Schools continues to prioritize safety and mental health awareness, ensuring that staff are prepared to support students beyond the classroom.

When Cochelle Cervenak tells her Family & Consumer Science students at Lorain High School they can achieve their dreams, she speaks from experience. The Lorain native has just published her first children's book, "Pretend Play Day," a story about believing in limitless possibilities.

"You can be anything," is more than just a line from her book – it's a message Cervenak shares with her students every day in the classroom. That spirit of endless potential shines through in her main character, Chloe, a young girl whose imagination leads her on an adventure to become a pilot.

Cervenak's own journey has been equally dynamic. Before joining the Lorain City Schools family, she served nearly nine years in the United States Air Force. Her 15-year career in education followed, where she discovered that her students' stories were as compelling as any novel.

"My creative ideas come from growing up in Lorain and from the amazing students I see in my classroom," Cervenak explains. Her passion for storytelling started early in life, with her childhood days spent creating stories, writing poems, and exploring her neighborhood.

"As early as I can remember, I loved using my imagination," she shares. That creative spirit found new life in the classroom, especially during her time as a middle school language arts teacher. "Every quarter was like a chapter in a YA novel and my students were the funniest, most unique characters ever!"

In "Pretend Play Day," young readers follow Chloe as she searches for the perfect co-pilot for her flying adventures. The story mirrors the kind of encouragement Cervenak offers her high school students as they explore their own future paths.

The publication of her first book marks a full-circle moment for Cervenak, bringing together her love of teaching, storytelling, and inspiring young minds. Through her work both in the classroom and on the page, she continues to show Lorain's students that their dreams are within reach.

Larkmoor Elementary School hosted a Career Day today for its third-grade students, offering them a glimpse into a variety of career paths through engaging presentations. The event, facilitated by school counselor Sharon Willis, featured guest speakers from the Great Lakes Science Center, Lorain Mayor Jack Bradley, and representatives from the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Each guest provided students with valuable insights into their respective fields, sparking curiosity and inspiration.

Students rotated through three different classrooms, where each guest speaker led an interactive session, providing fresh insights and unique perspectives before moving on to the next group.

JonDarr Bradshaw, Professional Science Center Educator and Aerospace Education Consultant with the Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland, led students through an interactive demonstration about space and vacuums. Using a small vacuum chamber, he showed how sound behaves in a vacuum, how marshmallows expand without air pressure, and how bubbles form in water due to changing atmospheric conditions. The experiments brought complex scientific concepts to life, leaving students eager to learn more about space and physics.

Lorain Mayor Jack Bradley introduced students to the role of local government and the many careers that keep a city running. He emphasized the importance of public safety, discussing how firefighters respond to emergencies and explaining why smoke detectors are essential in every home. He encouraged students to remind their families to regularly check and replace smoke detector batteries. His visit provided a practical perspective on civic responsibility and public service careers.

Education Specialists in Community Engagement from the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Fernanda and Emma, shared their backgrounds in biology and anthropology. They introduced students to the wide range of careers within a zoo, beyond just animal caretakers. From veterinary medicine and habitat maintenance to guest services and educational outreach, the speakers highlighted the many ways professionals contribute to animal care and conservation efforts. Their talk broadened students’ understanding of the skills and education needed for careers in science and wildlife management.

Career Day at Larkmoor Elementary left a lasting impression on students, providing them with real-world applications of their classroom learning. Events like these help young learners connect their studies to future career opportunities, encouraging them to explore new interests and dream big about what they can achieve. 

MEDIA

LORAIN, OH – Lorain High School counselor Dara Perry-Brutton delivered an inspiring presentation to student-athletes in honor of National Girls & Women in Sports Day. Her message focused on empowerment, career planning and the evolving opportunities available to female athletes in today’s sports landscape.

Perry-Brutton emphasized the challenges student-athletes, particularly women of color, may face and encouraged them to embrace their identities while preparing for the future. She highlighted the NCAA’s recent changes that allow student-athletes to profit from their name, image and likeness (NIL), urging students to be mindful of their personal brands and social media presence.

During her talk, she shared statistics on the percentage of female athletes who advance to the collegiate level, noting that while opportunities exist, dedication and academic excellence are key factors in achieving success. “Who you are can easily be misconstrued,” she said. “Protect who you are, protect what you stand for, and empower yourselves.”

In addition to discussing athletic opportunities, Perry-Brutton introduced key elements of career development, emphasizing the importance of planning for life beyond sports. She encouraged students to take advantage of career assessments, personality surveys and vocational opportunities available at Lorain High School.

As a former collegiate athlete herself, Perry-Brutton reassured students that she would personally advocate for them, provided they put in the effort academically and athletically. “Give me something to put my name behind,” she challenged them. “Show up, show out, and I promise you, the world is in your hands.”

The presentation concluded with a video on the impact of women in sports, reinforcing the idea that female athletes have the power to redefine the game and their futures. The event served as a motivational call to action, reminding students that their athletic journeys are just one part of their larger potential.

MEDIA

The meeting, led by 9th Grade Assistant Principal Tamara Jones and 9th Grade School Counselor Dara Perry-Brutton included panel discussions made up of student volunteers, safety officers, wellness coaches and guests from the Lorain County Urban League.

"Nobody's perfect, and nobody expects you to be," Jones addressed the students. "The goal is to end your freshman year on track and ready to succeed throughout high school."

Students were encouraged to view data about current grades and attendance, presented as a starting point for self-reflection. With the school’s motto, "Rise Together," serving as a guiding principle, the meeting highlighted the importance of staying on track academically and building a strong foundation for the future. Teachers and staff encouraged students to take advantage of the many support systems available.

Lorain High School offers a variety of resources to help students succeed. From tutoring sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays to mentorship programs and wellness support, students were reminded that help is always within reach. Staff emphasized that seeking help is a sign of strength and that students can even serve as peer tutors to support one another.

"You’re not here by yourself. You're not on an island," wellness coach Andre Hopewell told the studnets. "Find someone you trust—whether it’s a teacher, mentor, or peer—and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance."

The meeting celebrated the progress of students who are excelling and reminded everyone that their efforts are paving the way for future success. Upcoming events like college tours, a talent show and student advisory opportunities were announced, reinforcing the importance of balancing hard work with fun and engagement.

The session concluded with a powerful call to action: set goals and strive for something meaningful. Students were urged to identify their objectives for the remainder of the school year and commit to achieving them.

With a focus on self-reflection, resourcefulness, and resilience, Lorain High School’s freshman class is poised to rise above challenges and seize the opportunities ahead. The staff’s unwavering support and the students' potential to grow together ensure a bright future for the Titans Class of 2028.

MEDIA

A new year brought an exciting milestone for the Lorain Unified Special Olympics team as they joined the Amherst Exempted Village Schools Unified team for a bowling event at Rebman Recreation on Oberlin Avenue on January 10, 2024. The event was a celebration of inclusion, teamwork and the transformative power of sports.

Unified Sports is a Special Olympics program that brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team. The initiative promotes social inclusion through shared training and competition, fostering friendships and breaking down stereotypes in the process.

The bowling event was filled with teamwork and encouragement as students supported their peers and cheered each other on. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and inclusion, with participants coming together to celebrate each other’s efforts andsimply enjoy the spirit of friendly competition.

Unified Sports has been championed globally, with over a million participants worldwide and the backing of organizations like ESPN, the NBA, and FIFA. Programs like this one at Lorain City Schools help create inclusive communities where students of all abilities can thrive together.

MEDIA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 22, 2025

Below, I've included an evergreen media kit with a ready-to-air package and a finished package that can be re-tracked, along with additional sound bites and B-roll.

Lorain High School students build workplace confidence one cup at a time through a community partnership with local Biggby Coffee owner
 

LORAIN, Ohio — At Lorain High School, a student-run coffee counter is doing more than serving a morning pick-me-up. Titan Grounds, a work-training initiative housed within Lorain High School’s Career Tech program, gives students real, daily practice with the habits that matter most in the workplace: showing up on time, communicating clearly, following steps and taking pride in the result.

That real-world learning is now strengthened through a community partnership with local Biggby Coffee owner Rick Loera, who owns several Biggby Coffee locations, including the Leavitt Road store in Lorain. After hearing about Titan Grounds through a family connection at the school, Loera stepped in to support students by supplying Biggby’s Best Blend, the same beans served at area Biggby locations.

This is a feel-good, community-first story about students gaining confidence through consistent work, and a local business owner choosing to invest in what students are building.

For staff members like Lorain City Schools Health Services Supervisor Chiquita Cannon Jones, Titan Grounds has become a daily connection point with students across the building.

“I try to come every morning,” Jones said. “It’s just my thing of having a personal relationship with the students.”

Students say the experience is changing how they see themselves and what they can do next.

“I learned how to make coffee, make customers happy every day,” said Gabriela, a Lorain High School senior. “It’s really been improving me to be more comfortable around people that I don’t know.”

Loera said the goal goes beyond a transaction.

“Not just giving them a job,” Loera said. “Let’s get them to grow. Let’s get them to develop. Let’s make them into leaders.”

Broadcast-ready story package available

Lorain City Schools has a ready-to-air, feel-good news package that includes nat sound, student and staff interviews, and b-roll from Titan Grounds. The story highlights workforce readiness, student growth, and a local business partnership.

What’s available upon request:

• Fully edited VO/SOT package (approx. 2:30)
• B-roll and nat sound
• Still photos
• Script and suggested lower thirds

Suggested placement: Education, Community, Feel Good, Local Business, Workforce Development

All media assets, including a ready-to-air package and finished package that can be re-tracked, along with additional sound bites and B-roll, are available on the following Google Drive for media outlets to access:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1eHiW7yuRQ_ooux1wJHiqJlmShk-j0Sum?usp=sharing 

Media Contact:
Michael Paciotti
Multimedia Production Coordinator, Lorain City Schools
mpaciotti@lorainschools.org
(440) 830-4126