Schools

Paying it forward

Kensington Intermediate School’s new principal, Heath Horton, who began his tenure in August 2021, looks forward to helping students reach their potential in all facets of life.

BY LINDA FEAGLER

Report Card: Before taking the helm at Kensington Intermediate School, Heath Horton served as assistant principal of Rocky River High School and Brooklyn High School. He also taught language arts in the South Euclid/Lyndhurst City Schools district. A graduate of Elyria High School, the principal earned his bachelor’s degree in middle childhood education at Kent State University and master’s degree in educational administration from Ashland University. He’s currently working toward his doctorate in educational administration from the University of Findlay. “I had many wonderful teachers throughout my education who definitely left an impact on me, and I want to pay that forward,” he says. “I love helping future generations find their way.” Support System: Horton is a strong advocate for the Positive Behavior Intervention Support Program created by the U.S. Department of Education to address students’ social, emotional and mental health. “It’s one of my great priorities to help students be successful in school beyond the academic circle,” he says. Making the Grade: Horton takes pride in the fact that more than 90% of Kensington’s third graders are on track with scores in the Ohio Department of Education’s Third Grade Reading Guarantee. “That’s phenomenal,” he says. “Our kids are truly engaged from the time they walk into the building, participating in all of the student-centered activities and lessons taking place.” Free Time: A world traveler, Horton has been to every continent except Antarctica. “I love meeting new people and learning about various cultures,” he says.

Help people who are Help people who are homeless. Donate today. homeless. Donate today.

Community West Foundation started the SocksPLUS initiative after learning that socks were, and still are, the number one requested item by people experiencing homelessness.

A gift of just $10 will help us purchase 10 pairs of socks. A larger donation provides socks PLUS gloves, hats, boots and other necessities that are so desperately needed. Help keep the homeless men, women and children in our community warmer this winter. Most needed items: • New Socks • New Underwear • Toiletries • Winter Hats • Winter Gloves • Backpacks • Sleeping Bags • Tents

Visit SocksPlus.org or text SocksPlus to 44321

GOOD NEIGHBOR THRIFT SHOP

Donation Drop Off Locations:

• Common Threads • 22049 Lorain Road • Fairview Park • 440.641.1311 • Good Neighbor Thrift Shop • 158 Lear Road • Avon Lake • 440.933.8627

Please mark your donation “SocksPLUS” . SocksPlus.org