The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce has named Preston Elementary School a Purple Star School for the Class of 2025, recognizing the school’s exceptional dedication to supporting military-connected students and their families.

The Purple Star designation is awarded to schools that go above and beyond in serving students and families tied to our nation’s armed forces. To earn this prestigious recognition, schools must meet a rigorous set of criteria established by Ohio’s Purple Star Advisory Board. Preston Elementary has not only met, but exceeded these expectations.

With this distinction, Preston Elementary joins Lincoln and Richardson Elementary schools as part of a growing network of Purple Star schools within the Cuyahoga Falls City School District—highlighting the district’s ongoing efforts to honor and support military-connected families.

“We are incredibly proud to receive the Purple Star School designation,” said Principal Tamara Brown. “Our team is devoted to creating a supportive and welcoming environment for all students, including those navigating the unique challenges that come with being part of a military family.”

Military-connected students often face frequent moves and school transitions, and the Purple Star designation reflects Preston Elementary’s proactive approach in helping these students feel seen, supported, and set up for success—both academically and emotionally.

“This award honors the work we’ve done to stand alongside our military families and help their children thrive,” added Peggy Whitcomb, the district’s military liaison. “We’re grateful to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce for this recognition and remain steadfast in our mission to serve those who serve our country.”

CUYAHOGA FALLS, OH (Date) – The Cuyahoga Falls City School District is excited to announce that beginning in the 2025-26 school year, the district will fully operate its half-day preschool program. This transition marks a significant step in enhancing early childhood education opportunities for our youngest Black Tigers.

The preschool program will be housed at its current location within the Schnee Learning Center, where students will benefit from a high-quality early learning experience designed to foster growth and development.

“This transition reflects our commitment to providing exceptional early education,” said Superintendent Andrea Celico. “We are eager to create an enriching environment where our youngest learners can thrive.”

Over the summer months, the district will be updating the Schnee Learning Center with new furnishings and curriculum enhancements to ensure a top-tier preschool experience.

Enrollment Information
Families interested in enrolling their child in the preschool program are encouraged to apply as soon as possible due to limited class sizes. To begin the application process, please visit the preschool enrollment website using this link.

For questions regarding the program or enrollment process, please contact the Student Services Department at 330-926-3800 ext. 502040 or 502096, or email [email protected].

Thanks to the dedication of Eagle Scout candidate Dennis Schaefer and the collaborative efforts of Security Supervisor Ben Gessford, every classroom in the Cuyahoga Falls City School District now has a safety bucket, an essential addition to the district’s emergency preparedness measures.

Dennis, a former Preston Elementary student, sought to complete an Eagle Scout project that would benefit the school community. During a Board of Education meeting, Mr. Gessford highlighted the need for lockdown safety buckets in classrooms, inspiring Dennis to take on the initiative.

The project required multiple levels of approval, including endorsements from his Boy Scout Troop 152, the school district, and the local Boy Scout Great Trail Council. Once approved, Dennis partnered with Mr. Gessford and District Nurse Krystal Nykaza to determine the contents of the buckets, which were designed as starter kits that schools could expand as needed.

Generous donations enabled Dennis to purchase essential supplies, including buckets, bottled water, toilet paper, candy, and storage bags. Additionally, Mr. Gessford secured a grant that provided first aid kits valued at $25,000, ensuring that each bucket was well-equipped with critical emergency supplies.

With the support of family and friends, Dennis dedicated significant time to preparing the buckets. Using the district’s bus garage as a workspace, the team thoroughly cleaned and dried repurposed pickle buckets before assembling and organizing them. The district’s maintenance team then distributed the completed buckets to classrooms across the district.

Dennis is the son of Board of Education member Carrie Schaefer, who expressed her gratitude for those who supported the project. “Dennis could not have completed this endeavor without the guidance and encouragement of Mr. Gessford and Maintenance Supervisor, Mr. Woodard,” said Mrs. Schaefer. “Their patience and dedication were instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.”

This initiative not only fulfilled his Eagle Scout requirement but also made a lasting contribution to the safety and preparedness of the Cuyahoga Falls City School District.