Doherty Blast Feb 2, 2024
Dear Doherty Families,
It is hard to believe that we are approaching February. I am not sure where January went!
I hope you had the chance to attend the STEAM event over the weekend. The Middle School students showcased incredible work, collaborating seamlessly with our students. This experience allowed our students to delve into the world of science and engineering. A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in organizing this event; we recognize the tremendous effort that went into it. Middle School students, you truly made Seven Hills proud!
Our science adventures continued beyond the STEAM event. On Tuesday, several seventh graders, along with their teacher Kristen Suer, visited our campus to meet with first graders. These seventh graders, who have been researching the solar system, were tasked with creating fictional stories suitable for first graders based on their findings. The Unit I students enjoyed listening to the stories and interacting with their older peers.
Looking ahead to Feb. 9, our first through fifth graders will participate in a school-wide field trip to Perfect North Slopes for a morning of tubing. Please refer to the field trip information form and ensure the timely return of the waiver forms by Tuesday, Feb. 6.
A reminder about parking on the street: We continue to receive complaints from neighbors who face challenges getting to and from their homes during drop-off and dismissal. Kindly refrain from parking on Johnstone Place on either side of the road between the playground and the school. We’ve observed cars parking on the school side of the road, especially in the morning, and on the corner of the driveway. If your vehicle is not entirely inside the driveway gate, please do not leave it there. Waiting on the right side of the road to enter the driveway is acceptable. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated.
Parent teacher conferences are just around the corner. On Feb. 12, you will receive an invitation to sign up for your child’s parent teacher conference. If you do not receive this, please let us know.
Have a great weekend!
Tracy
Key Dates & Events
Friday, Feb. 16 — Faculty Professional Development Day. No Classes.
Monday, Feb. 19 — Presidents Day. No School. All buildings and offices are closed.
Thursday, Feb. 22 — Early Dismissal for Grades 1-5. Dismiss at 11:30 a.m.
Thursday, Feb. 22 — Conferences Grades 1-5, 12-8 p.m. Conferences Grades Pre-K and K, 4-8 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 23 — Conferences All Grades 8 a.m.-12 p.m. No Classes.
Announcements
Lost & Found
There are quite a few coats, hats, gloves, etc. in the lost and found. If your child is missing anything, please stop by Jones Hall to see if there are any items you can claim.
Delay The Phone! Parent Meeting — Thursday, Feb. 8
All fourth and fifth grade parents are invited to a community meeting, along with Middle School parents, on Feb. 8, starting at 7 p.m. in The Schiff Center on the Hillsdale Campus, to understand the serious and detrimental effects that smartphones and social media have on our children’s social and emotional development. As a part of understanding this important issue, Head of Middle School Bill Waskowitz will also be introducing the Wait Until 8th parent program to help reduce the pressure felt by both students and parents over kids having smartphones. No need to RSVP; just show up for this important meeting that is focused on what is best for our children.
Holiday Care
We are now on a waitlist for all February Holiday Care dates. Please email Jill Romerill and Christina O’Donnell to be added.
Summer Program 2024 — Mark Your Calendars
Make 2024 the best summer ever! Make friends, discover new passions, and create memories that last a lifetime! With eight weeks of action packed camps, beginning June 17 through Aug. 9, there are all kinds of adventures and opportunities for your child to explore to make this the best summer ever. Priority registration for Seven Hills families opens at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13.
New Summer Program: Middle School Expeditions: Caves
Dates: June 24-28
Grades: 6-8
Instructor: Shane Marsan
Camp Snapshot: Embark on a dynamic, five-day, four-night Middle School summer course, departing from Cincinnati for an adventure-filled journey to Mammoth Cave in Kentucky. This well-rounded itinerary seamlessly blends educational exploration and outdoor excitement, offering students a mix of guided cave tours, zip-lining adventures, and interactive outdoor activities. The week culminates with a return journey to Cincinnati, marked by a farewell dinner that encapsulates the camaraderie and memories forged during this enriching and unforgettable summer experience. This program is exclusively offered for Seven Hills students and will be released with the brochure. Please contact Shane Marsan with any questions and info about registration.
Academic Kick Start — New Summer Enrichment Program
Elevate your child’s learning experience this summer with our specialized program designed for academic excellence called Academic Kick Start. The program will run from July 15 to Aug. 2 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. There will be classes for first and second graders, third and fourth graders, and fifth and sixth graders. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention, fostering a focused and supportive environment throughout the entire camp. Dive deep into core subjects, including reading, writing, and math, with an emphasis on individualized instruction. Unlike traditional camps, Academic Kick Start maintains small class sizes for the entire duration, allowing for continuous engagement and targeted academic growth. Prepare your child for the upcoming school year with a curriculum tailored to their needs and led by experienced educators. Join us for a unique educational journey that goes beyond the ordinary camp experience.
This program is run by Shane Marsan and will have a separate registration from the Summer Program, but is offered simultaneously with other Summer Programs. Contact Shane Marsan about registration. These class sizes are limited and for Seven Hills families only.
Planning for Solar Eclipse on April 8
As you no doubt already know, Cincinnati will experience a total solar eclipse on April 8. Particularly since the eclipse’s totality will coincide with afternoon dismissal, the school’s administration is discussing various options, including schedule modifications, to make sure that students are safe throughout the event. We’ll include in an upcoming Blast a detailed plan for April 8.
PC Corner
Winter Family Social
Please join us on Friday, Feb. 16, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at Urban Air Adventure Park. The entire space will be closed to the public at this time and will be just for Doherty students and their families. The school will be closed for professional development so this will be a good way to get some energy out! Attractions include trampolines, warrior courses, climbing walls, tubes playground, ropes courses, and much more (some height restrictions apply). Sign up for Urban Air.
The cost is $20 for ultimate tickets (age 6 and older). Ultimate tickets are valid for all attractions in the facility. The cost is $10 for deluxe tickets (age 5 and younger). Deluxe tickets do not include access to the climbing wall (must be 41” tall), sky rider and ropes course (must be 48” tall), or laser tag. If your 5-year-old or younger child is tall enough and wants to participate in ultimate attractions, you will need to purchase an ultimate ticket instead.
Parents and chaperones do not need to purchase a ticket for themselves if they are not participating. If the cost of attending this event prevents your child from participating, please contact Tracy Murch to discuss financial assistance. All requests are strictly confidential. Tickets are limited and must be purchased by end-of-day Feb. 8!
PC Meeting
Interested in learning more about our Carnival event and how to volunteer? Join us on Friday, Feb. 9, at 8:30 a.m. at Bean & Barley right down the road from school at 2005 1/2 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208.