Pumpkin drop success at Independence High School

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – Beware falling pumpkins – physics and tech students at Independence High School have been dropping them from great heights.

An annual tradition, the students apply the theory they have learned on Newton's Laws to the practical world by designing protective devices to keep their pumpkins in one piece as they plummet to earth.

With altitude provided courtesy of a lift truck provided by the city's service department, the students put their ingenious devices to the practical test.

A statement said: "Students had to follow rules, such as prohibiting parachutes and bungee cords, ensuring at least half the pumpkin remained visible, and limiting total weight to 30 pounds. Despite these constraints, the students showcased their creativity and problem-solving skills."

Students got to develop their understanding of physics concepts while also developing their collaborative and engineering skills.

Independence educator honored with regional excellence award

Independence Middle School art and science teacher Michaela Bloam has been recognized as a top educator by the Ohio Middle Level Association.

She has been given a Regional Educator in Excellence award by the organization for her outstanding contributions at its fall conference.

"We are thrilled that Michaela Bloam's exceptional work has been honored with this distinguished award," said Principal Jamie Vanek. "In just three short years, she has made a remarkable impact on our staff and students, inspiring everyone around her with her passion and dedication to education."

He added she has become known for her innovative teaching methods, her ability to connect with students, and her leadership in driving positive change.

"She is the embodiment of excellence in education," added Vanek. "She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure our students receive the highest quality learning experiences, and her influence extends far beyond the classroom."

Kindness and resilience celebrated at Independence Primary School

Students and staff came together to celebrate their annual I-Pride Week focused on community, positivity and emotional growth.

A statement said: "Over the course of five days, the school explored themes of joy, togetherness, wellness, bravery, and kindness through a variety of colorful dress-up days and engaging classroom activities."

The event started on Monday, October 28, and featured students sharing things that brought them happiness while Tuesday everyone wore blue and discussed ways to cheer each other up. Members of the Independence High School Marching Band paid a visit for a pep rally. Wellness Wednesday saw the focus shifted to mindful breathing and coping skills for tough emotions.

Halloween was celebrated on Thursday, with costumes and a school-wide party. The week culminated on Fearless Friday, when students bravely shared personal stories of overcoming challenges, inspiring their peers with displays of resilience. Everyone enjoyed wearing purple or dressing like a superhero.

"As we celebrated I-Pride Week, our focus was on cultivating kindness, emotional resilience, and making core memories that will last a lifetime," said Counselor Brooke Gradert. "We stressed the importance of being kind to everyone, because we never know what others are going through. By helping our students handle big feelings and find joy in the day, we hope to empower them with the tools to build a more compassionate school community."