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17419 Snyder Road, Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023-2730
Phone: 440-543-9677 Fax: 440-543-8634 |
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November 21, 2025
Dear Kenston Community,
As we near Thanksgiving, I am reminded of the deep importance of gratitude, the character trait we are highlighting across our district this month. Gratitude helps us see the good in our lives, appreciate those who support us, and build a stronger sense of community. I want to sincerely thank our students, families, staff, and community partners for their ongoing dedication to our schools. Your support forms the foundation that allows our district to grow, succeed, and provide meaningful learning experiences for every student.
The upcoming Thanksgiving break is a great opportunity for all of us to pause, reset, and recharge. I encourage families to take this time to rest, reflect, and enjoy special moments together. Even a short break can make a big difference, and I am confident that our students will come back energized and prepared to finish the final weeks of the first semester on a strong note.
With Gratitude,
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Dr. Bruce Willingham, Jr.
Superintendent |
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At the November 10, 2025, Board of Education Meeting, Treasurer Seth Cales shared with the board and stakeholders about potential tax changes under House Bill 96 and the impact on the five-year forecast shared in October. On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, Dr. Willingham and Mr. Cales attended a meeting with the Geauga County Auditor and Commissioners, where the elected officials voted unanimously to decline the “piggyback” property tax exemption.
The following is a summary of an email that was sent to the community:
We extend our sincere gratitude to our parents, staff, residents, and community partners for their outreach to Geauga County officials regarding House Bill 96, which helped influence a critical outcome. On November 18, 2025, in response to the thoughtful feedback from taxing authorities across the county, Commissioners Carolyn Brakey, James Dvorak, and Ralph Spidalieri unanimously declined to implement the “piggyback” property tax exemption, a decision that prevents Kenston Local Schools from losing more than $900,000 annually, facing immediate deficit spending, and needing an operating levy years earlier than expected. While framed as tax relief, the exemption would have shifted greater financial pressure onto communities over time, and we appreciate our commissioners’ foresight in recognizing the long-term consequences for schools and essential services.
We are deeply thankful for our stakeholders’ advocacy and for the commissioners’ leadership, as we remain committed to responsible financial stewardship, extending the timeline before an operating levy is necessary, and supporting balanced, meaningful property tax reform. We will continue to keep our community informed about state-level funding proposals, and we are truly grateful for your partnership in protecting the future of our students and schools.
To view the full email, click here.
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Kenston Foundation Update
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At the November 10, 2025, Board of Education Meeting, Kenston Foundation President Cheryl Spehar presented the annual Foundation update to the Board. The Kenston Foundation, established in 1983, provides a way for individual and corporate donors to support academic excellence through tax-deductible contributions.
It has awarded numerous grants to Kenston teachers over the years. In addition, the Foundation recognizes student achievement by offering annual scholarships to graduating seniors across a wide range of academic and personal interests.
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The Kenston Foundation invites the community to save the date to attend Purse Bingo on March 14, 2026.
To find more information about the Kenston Foundation, visit kenstonfoundation.org
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Reminder: Kenston Schools Closed for Thanksgiving Break |
Kenston Stadium and Tennis Courts Closed for the Season |
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As winter approaches with cold temperatures and wintry weather, please note that the Kenston Stadium (including the track) and Tennis Courts are closed for the season. The hazards of winter weather (including slippery surfaces, strong winds, and cold temperatures) require the facilities to be closed, which will extend their life. The stadium and tennis courts will reopen in the Spring of 2026.
The 1.5-mile Kenston trail is available year-round; however, it is open only during non-school hours and when not in use by a team. This trail provides many opportunities to enjoy nature and exercise, but only during non-school hours. Please also note that dogs are not permitted on the trail or on campus unless they are service dogs.
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Silver Bells Holiday Boutique and Jingle Bell Alley Craft Show |
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The annual holiday concerts at Kenston Schools are just around the corner. Since these performances are always a fan favorite, be sure to mark your calendar and save the dates. If you are unable to attend in person but would still like to enjoy the concerts, you can watch them using the livestream links below. |
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Musical Arts Association of Kenston (MAAK) is once again partnering with Lowe’s Greenhouse to offer beautiful seasonal poinsettias that will decorate the KHS stage for all the Holiday Concerts.
Poinsettias will be available for pickup after the concert on December 17, 2025, in the KHS hall/cafe area. You can also arrange with your student salesperson for them to deliver them to you.
Poinsettias: $15 each or 2 for $25
All payments should be sent to Julie Green at Kenston High School
*Note—If you don't know a Band/Choir student and still want to order a poinsettia, drop your payment in an envelope with your name on it at Julie Green at the KHS main office.
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Upcoming Board of Education Meetings |
Use the search feature in the upper right header. Minutes are available after approval in the following month's agenda. |
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