February 21, 2025
West Geauga High School was buzzing with excitement this past week as students and staff celebrated the highly anticipated Battle of 306 Spirit Week. Each day brought a new wave of school spirit, friendly competition, and unforgettable moments leading up to the grand showdown against Kirtland High School.
Spirit Week kicked off with themed dress days that had students and staff showing off their creativity. From patriotic pride on USA Day to monochrome madness on Groutfit Day and a neon explosion on Neon Day, the halls of West G were alive with energy and school spirit.
Daily pep rallies in the gym pumped up the crowd with thrilling games and activities. Highlights included Musical Chair Knockout, an intense round of Dodgeball, and the ever-popular Jollyball. The competition wasn't just for students—teachers got in on the action, too! In one of the most talked-about moments of the week, faculty members faced off in bumper balls, bringing plenty of laughs and epic showdowns.
Adding to the spirit of giving, students and staff from both schools also participated in a donation drive for the Ronald McDonald House, collecting over 400 items to support families in need. The overwhelming generosity of the West Geauga and Kirtland communities showcased the power of unity and kindness.
All of the week's excitement built up to the main event on Friday when West G welcomed Kirtland High School into our gym for the long-awaited Battle of 306. The Wolverines and the Hornets went head-to-head in a series of games, each one inching their school closer to victory. With the coveted Principal’s Cup trophy on the line, the competition was fierce, and the score remained neck and neck throughout the event.
The grand finale was none other than the highly anticipated Desk Chair Jousting match between Mr. Puskas and Mr. Patti. With the score tied, the pressure was on. Mr. Puskas claimed the first round, but Mr. Patti answered back with a win in the second. In a thrilling tiebreaker, Mr. Patti came out victorious, securing the Principal's Cup for the Wolverines!
Thank you to everyone who participated and made the Battle of 306 an event to remember.
25/26 Scheduling Update
Wolverines,
I want to share important information about the upcoming course selection process for the 2024-25 school year.
Beginning February 21st, the Academic Plan portal will open for students to begin their course selection process. We ask that you take time to review both the teacher's course recommendations and your student's elective choices. Students should enter their elective selections into Infinite Campus before meeting with their counselor.
Our counseling team will meet with students during their English classes according to the following schedule:
Current Juniors: Week of February 24th
Current Sophomores: Week of March 3rd
Current Freshmen: Week of March 10th
If your student does not have an English class at WGHS, they should reach out directly to their counselor to schedule a meeting time.
For students interested in College Credit Plus (CCP) courses for next year, there will be a mandatory information session during the Wolverine Period on February 25th. All students considering CCP must attend this session, even if they are currently enrolled in CCP courses. This session will provide crucial information about program requirements and expectations for the upcoming school year.
Please ensure your student completes their course selections and attend both their scheduled counseling meeting and, if applicable, the CCP information session. These steps are essential for proper course placement and scheduling for next year.
If you have any questions about the scheduling process, please don't hesitate to contact your student's counselor.
Best,
Ryan
On March 12th, Juniors will be taking the ACT during school. Now is a great time to start prepping for the assessment whenever you find that you have a bit of free time. Not only is this a high school graduation requirement BUT it is an excellent opportunity to earn scholarships!
IMPORTANT: Your login for your ACT account will be the one you use for the rest of your high school career. Please use the linked document to help you store the information in a safe place.
The following link should force you to make a copy of the ACT Test Prep Google Doc that will be saved to your Google Drive. This G.Doc has many fabulous resources to help you prep for the ACT. This can only help you so that you will be better prepared when March 12th comes around.
If you have any questions, please reach out to your counselor!
February 25th
CCP Information Presentation (during Wolverine Period)
March 7th
OMEA Large Group Contest @ Mentor HS
March 12th
ACT Test All Juniors
No School for Grades 9, 10, 12
March 20th
End of Quarter
March 20th
Jazz Band/Steel Band Interact Benefit Concert @ WGHS Gym
7:00pm
March 21st
No School for Students
March 24th-28th
Spring Break
The CommUNITY Room is requesting donations of individual snack bags of goldfish, cheese-its or other snacks as well as granola bars to keep on hand for students. Donations can be dropped off at the Main Office to the attention of Deborah Nanny.
The Battle of 306 brought epic competition, school spirit, and unforgettable moments! From thrilling games to the final showdown, West Geauga gave it their all. Congratulations to everyone who participated in this incredible event!
Last weekend Robotics Club participated in the FIRST Tech Challenge qualifying event at Kent State University. The students were awarded with the judges choice award. Judges were impressed with their collaboration and teamwork as well as their design of their robot. This was a new club for us this year so they started halfway through the season. The Judges were impressed with the design of their robot and how well it performed with so little time before the competitions. The judges commented that they are excited to see what next year will bring for our club.
The West G bands combined forces with the BBHHS groups to put on an outstanding performance featuring two ensembles from each school, and a combined WG/BBH concert band and a combined symphonic band as well! The concert also featured guest conductor Dr. Helton from CWRU.
The Snow Ball made a comeback this year! Students enjoyed a night of dancing, laughter, and winter magic. A special thanks to the PTO for their incredible decorations and contributions that made the night unforgettable!
WG Band Student Lauren Palecek auditioned for the OMEA All-State Band and was accepted! This is a tough audition involving hundreds of students from all over Ohio and a very selective process to make it into the group. Lauren’s outstanding audition led to her performing with the “All State Band” at the 2025 OMEA Professional Development Conference.
We're delighted to announce the arrival of Mrs. Palus's new baby (this is the third new Wolverine to arrive this year, and one more still to come)!
While she enjoys her maternity leave, we welcome Mr. David Peterjohn as her temporary replacement. Mr. Peterjohn brings 35 years of education experience, including 28 years as a School Counselor. Interestingly, he previously served at WGHS from 1995-1998.
Please reach out to Mr. Peterjohn directly (david.peterjohn@westg.org) with any counseling needs or questions.
Calling all High School Sophomores and Juniors!
Are you ready to develop your leadership skills, gain real-world experience, and set yourself up for future success? The Leadership Geauga Youth Leadership Institute is back for 2025, and the Chester Township Board is excited to sponsor two outstanding students for this transformative experience.What’s in it for you?
Improve Interpersonal Skills and Confidence – Take the Clifton Strengths assessment and participate in team-based activities designed to help you understand your strengths.
Interact with Local Leaders – Meet professionals from businesses, government, and community organizations—connections that often lead to internships and shadowing opportunities.
Go Behind the Scenes – Tour some of Geauga County’s top businesses and organizations to see leadership in action.
Engage with Diverse Peers – Work alongside students from different ethnic, economic, and social backgrounds, broadening your perspective and understanding.
Program Details:
Dates:
Monday, June 16
Wednesday, June 18
Friday, June 20
Monday, June 23
Wednesday, June 25
Thursday, June 26 – Mentorship Day
Friday, June 27 – Graduation
Time: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to build leadership skills, expand your network, and gain valuable experience that will set you apart for college and career opportunities. Apply now through the Leadership Geauga Form to take the first step toward unlocking your leadership potential!
Click Here to watch program videos on the Excel Tecc YouTube Channel.
Click Here for the presentation given to all Sophomores.
Click Here for the latest Excel Tecc Newsletter
All Scholarship Opportunities are posted in the Class of 2025 Google Classroom
under Scholarships
Protect Geauga Parks Scholarship
Protect Geauga Parks announces its eighth annual Bob McCullough Memorial Scholarship. Up to three recipients will receive $1000 each.
While nature and the environment remain our main focus we have expanded this year’s scholarship search to include students who will be attending four and two year college programs. We are also looking at students who might choose to attend non degree technical programs that focus on environmental sustainability.
Applications are available at our website:
ProtectGeaugaparks.us.
If you have questions, please email to :
info.protectgeaugaparks@gmail.com
or call 216-346-4025 or 216-570-4131
The deadline to receive applications is midnight Sunday, March 16, 2025
Wolverines interested in CCP - we will be having a CCP Information session in the library on Tuesday, February 25th during Wolverine period!
Please check-in with your Wolverine period teacher and then join us in the cafeteria. The presentation will begin promptly at 9:55am. We will review the CCP program, possible benefits, possible risks, and the next steps for registration.
College Now helps high school students achieve their dreams of going to and succeeding in certificate, two-year and four-year degree programs.
Click Here to schedule a Financial Aid One-on-One Meeting with a College Now Advisor.
Click Here for the latest College Now Student Newsletter
FAFSA Family Size Issue
Please note the following important issue on the Parent contributor side of your FAFSA. After your tax information is imported into your FAFSA, you will come across the question: “Is the family size different from the number of individuals claimed on your 2023 tax return?” The box will be checked to “no”. To ensure that the family size information is being reported correctly, check “yes” and the screen will then show you what family size is being reported. If the number is not correct, you can add the number of additional family members to adjust the total family size on this screen. If the number is correct, you can just go back and re-check the “no” box. Once you’ve confirmed this information, you can continue completing the FAFSA.
It is easy to correct this issue if you have already submitted your FAFSA. You can login and start a correction, review the information, and submit and sign it again. It is still early in the process. If you need assistance in completing your FAFSA or checking the family size that you reported, please reach out to Heidi Spangler, our College Now Advisor, at heidispangler@collegenowgc.org or call/text:216-200-4780
A few helpful links:
Click Here to create your FSA ID. Use your personal email to create your account. Do not use your school email.
Click Here to determine which parent should contribute to your FAFSA form.
Click Here if you think you might be an independent student.
Follow @westgathletics on Instagram for full athletic coverage
SENIORS! You have made it so now let's show these colleges and universities what we've got!
Here is the Senior Year Presentation with information about the College Application Process and other additional helpful links! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out or stop by the Counseling Office to see your school counselor.
The MEDCAMP program is accepting applications from highly motivated students 18 years and older who have graduated high school by the time of MEDCAMP and be enrolled at a college or university entering their 1st, 2nd, or 3rd year of undergraduate education, and GPA of 3.0 or greater.
Participants selected to participate in MEDCAMP must be a United States citizen, a permanent resident of the United States, or a United States National and reside or go to school in Ashland, Ashtabula, Carroll, Columbiana, Crawford, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Holmes, Lake, Lorain, Mahoning, Medina, Portage, Richland, Stark, Summit, Tuscarawas, Trumbull or Wayne Counties. First consideration is given to applicants from areas that are underrepresented in health care professions, especially rural and those areas in Appalachia.
Required Application Materials
Latest transcript from high school or undergraduate institution with GPA.
A letter of recommendation from a science, math teacher, guidance counselor, faculty member or a community member relating to your interest in a health career.
Personal statement describing your future desired career in a health profession.
Important Dates
February 2025: Application opens
April 18, 2025: Application deadline
May 16, 2025: Acceptance notification
West Geauga High School is committed to supporting students' continued success. The Senior Internship program, designed in collaboration with the administration and supported by the Board of Education, offers eligible senior students an opportunity to engage in a meaningful, independent project of their choice and design. All participating students will be exempt from the final two weeks of the school year. Final grades for the grading period and semester exams for participating seniors will be calculated before the internship begins.
Dear Senior Parents and Guardians,
We’re excited to share details about our upcoming After Prom event on May 2, 2025! This special celebration will run from midnight to 2:00 AM at WhirlyBall in Bedford, with bus transportation provided from the West Geauga High School (this is a correction from the last communication which stated the buses would transport from Generations Reception and Event Center/Guidos). ALL seniors and their guests are welcome to attend After Prom, even if they don't attend the prom itself.
To make this safe, memorable celebration possible, the After Prom Committee is requesting a suggested donation of $35 per student. Your support will help provide entertainment, food, prizes, transportation, and security while keeping ticket prices affordable for all students.
Donations can be made either:
By check: Payable to "West Geauga After Prom" and mailed to PO Box 1014, Chesterland, OH 44026
Online: Through Cheddar Up at https://my.cheddarup.com/c/parent-letter/items?cart
Additionally, we're seeking parent volunteers to help make this night unforgettable. If you'd like to get involved, please email wghsafterprom@gmail.com with your contact information.
The deadline for donations is March 1, 2025. Questions? Contact the After Prom Committee at wghsafterprom@gmail.com.
Thank you for helping us create a safe and memorable celebration for our seniors!
The yearbook staff is hard at work and does not want you to miss out on this year's book: Wolverine Country. Time is running out to pre-order your 2025 yearbook for the $65 discounted rate! Please order here directly through Jostens today. If you're unsure if you've already ordered, contact Kelly.Klampe@westg.org. The price goes up to $80 when pre-ordering ends in early April.
ATTENTION PTO MEMBERS!
We have several committees that need more helpers!
Many hands make light work, so grab a friend and join a committee!
Bring all your exciting new ideas - we LOVE to hear them!
MS Spring Dance Committee: The Middle School Spring Dance will be here before we know it! We need someone to take the lead on planning and decorating for this highly anticipated event. Don't worry, we have lots of tips and tricks from the past few years and will be here to help. We need a point person and some other folks to help do the legwork on this one! Tentative date is May 9th.
Senior/Kindergarten T-Shirt Exchange: Prior to graduation, Seniors present Kindergarteners with a student-designed commemorative "Class of" t-shirt in a heart-warming ceremony held during the school day. Parents are welcome to attend and additional shirts will be available for sale. We are beyond excited for this new tradition to begin this Spring 2025!
Teacher Appreciation Week: May 5th-9th, 2025. Share your suggestions, assist with the organization of the week, or even volunteer to manage one day. You can never get started too early on this kinda thing!
Color Run Committee: An annual FUNdraising event for WGMS, students receive a white t-shirt which, during the run/walk, gets tie-dyed with non-toxic colored powder thrown at them by friends, faculty, and parents! Prizes are awarded to biggest fundraisers. Slated for Spring 2025 (but open to discussion on timing).
Parent Engagement: Want a behind-the-scenes peek into your kiddo's school day? This new committee volunteers to support teachers in their classrooms, attend to the teachers' lounges, and create an open and welcome environment for parents during the school day. All ideas, no matter how grand, are welcome and accepted!
Thank you in advance!
-Your West G Upper PTO Board-
On behalf of everyone at West Geauga High School, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to the Upper School PTO for all of your hard work in making this year’s Snow Ball such a huge success! From the beautiful decorations that transformed the space, to the well-stocked concession stand, the fun and engaging games, and the dedicated chaperones who helped ensure everything ran smoothly—none of it would have been possible without your time, effort, and commitment.
Your dedication and generosity truly made this event special for our students, creating memories that will last a lifetime. We are so lucky to have such an amazing PTO that continuously goes above and beyond to support our school community.
West Geauga High School
440-729-5950
www.westg.org