May News and Updates

Get Ready for the State Amazing Shake Championship!

A group of exceptional students is preparing to represent their school in the statewide Amazing Shake competition, set to take place on May 8 at Akron Career Tech High School. The event, known for its focus on professional and social skill-building, will bring together top student competitors from across the state to compete for the title of State Amazing Shake Champion.

These students have spent months mastering real-world skills such as professional communication, leadership, networking and composure under pressure. During the competition, they will participate in a series of fast-paced, high-stakes simulations that test their ability to think on their feet and make strong first impressions.

More than just a contest, the Amazing Shake is a transformative program that equips students with vital soft skills often overlooked in traditional education. Participants learn the art of the handshake, proper interview etiquette and how to navigate professional environments with confidence and poise.

This competition bridges the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world application, preparing students for future academic, career and personal success. We are incredibly proud of our Amazing Shake champions. Their hard work and dedication have brought them to this exciting moment, and we can’t wait to see them shine on the state stage.

Winners will be announced following the conclusion of the competition on May 8.

Reaping the Benefits of Career Technical Education

From Pre-Apprentice to Full-Time at Marker Construction

OCA Senior, Jermontrez H. has secured a full-time position with Marker Construction following his successful pre-apprenticeship with them last week. This achievement underscores the power of Career Technical Education in paving the way for our students’ futures. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Jermontrez and commend the dedicated OCA team for their unwavering support and commitment to student success!

Castle East Student Shines with STNA Certification and Career Success

Castle High School East Campus is celebrating a standout student whose inspiring determination and drive are capturing hearts across the community. Ariza R., a student with a remarkable journey, has officially earned her State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) certification after passing the state exam, and she is already applying her skills at a local nursing home.

Ariza’s achievements do not stop there. In addition to her STNA credentials, she has completed the RISE Up program in Customer Service and Retail, as well as coursework in Cosmetology and Culinary Arts, showcasing her diverse talents and passion for learning.

What makes Ariza’s success especially powerful is her personal journey. Having been out of traditional public schools since ninth grade, she has a mission to succeed, and she has done just that. Her story is a testament to resilience, perseverance and the impact of supportive educators and engaging school programming.

The Castle East team is beaming with pride, applauding Ariza’s accomplishments and the role their staff played in guiding and empowering her. As Ariza steps confidently into the future, she serves as an inspiring reminder of what’s possible with hard work, passion and the right support.

Congratulations, Ariza — the future is yours!



A Spring Celebration and Enrollment Opportunity at South Side Academy

South Side Academy’s recent Bunny Brunch was a joyful occasion, bringing together current students and their families, along with many bright-eyed preschool children and their families from the area, and our supportive community partners. Beyond the fun and festivities, the brunch served as a key opportunity to welcome prospective families and share information about enrolling at South Side Academy for the next academic year.

A Special Visitor and a Big Heart at A+ Maybury

The students at A+ Maybury were filled with joy during a recent surprise visit from the Easter Bunny (who, we can now reveal, was the fantastic Mr. Ealy). The giving did not end with Easter treats. Our students also took the initiative to organize a coin drive, pooling their resources to make a thoughtful donation to the local Ronald McDonald House. This heartwarming effort, in alignment with EEG’s Community Engagement pillar, demonstrates our students’ compassion and community spirit.



Empowered Tech High School: Launching a Bold Vision for Student Success

In an exciting new chapter for Bridge Gate High School, the school is undergoing a major transformation, both in name and mission. Now officially renamed Empowered Tech High School (ETHS), the campus will expand to serve grades 9–12 with a renewed focus on preparing students for real-world success through innovative, career-focused learning.

Empowered Tech High School is more than just a name — it’s a promise. The school will blend rigorous academics with hands-on learning, offering students access to multiple career pathways, enrichment programs and unique educational experiences. Each student will benefit from a personalized, high-quality education designed to unlock their full potential.

Our goal is to provide every student with every opportunity to thrive.



We are building a school environment where students gain not only academic knowledge, but also the life skills, occupational certifications and job readiness they need to excel in college, personal careers and beyond. With its focus on empowerment, real-world learning and individualized support, Empowered Tech High School aims to become a model for how education can evolve to meet the needs of today’s students and tomorrow’s workforce.



Magical Theater Brings Drama to Life in Akron Schools

Students at The Steel Academy and Middlebury Academy in Akron are experiencing the magic of live theater in a whole new way, thanks to a dynamic partnership with The Magical Theater Company. Based in Barberton, Ohio, the renowned theater has launched an educational outreach program that brings professional actors directly into classrooms, transforming traditional lessons into engaging, performance-based learning experiences.

Through this program, teaching artists from Magical Theater work alongside students and educators to integrate drama into the school curriculum. From acting and improvisation to creative dramatics, students are learning foundational theater skills while building confidence, creativity, empathy and collaboration — all essential tools for academic and personal success.

Drama has the power to make learning more impactful and meaningful. It allows students to express themselves, connect with others and engage in new ways. The response from students at both schools has been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the experience as inspiring and fun. Sandy Calvert, school leadership teams and The Magical Theater are committed to continuing and growing this beneficial partnership, giving more young learners the chance to discover the transformative power of the performing arts.

The Health Corner

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to support those navigating mental health challenges. It is important to remember that nearly half of all adults in the U.S. will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime.

Here are a few simple yet effective ways to nurture your mental health:

• Practice Gratitude
• Engage in Acts of Kindness
• Move Your Body: Exercise benefits both your physical and mental health by reducing anxiety and boosting self-esteem.
• Prioritize Sleep
• Connect with Nature

If you have concerns about your mental well-being, please reach out to your primary care physician or a mental health professional.

Also, in this month’s issue of Live Well, Work Well, discover helpful tips to change up your routine and reduce processed foods for improved well-being.