Orange High School Celebrates Outstanding Achievements in Robotics and Music
A Night of Recognition in Pepper Pike
PEPPER PIKE, Ohio – The Orange High School community gathered in the auditorium on May 27 for a special Board of Education meeting to celebrate remarkable accomplishments by its robotics team and three musical ensembles. The meeting had to be relocated to accommodate the large number of honorees, showcasing the school’s commitment to excellence in both technology and the arts.
Robotics Team Triumphs Again
The Orange High School robotics team, known as the Flying Circuits and Team 1787, has made history by clinching its third consecutive state title at the recent FIRST Robotics State Competition held May 9-10 in New Albany. Under the dedicated guidance of advisers Ryan McMonigle and Jon Rice, the team earned its spot at state by winning the Buckeye Regional title in Cleveland.
Demonstrating Excellence With Larry Long Lengthenstein
During the meeting, members of the robotics team showcased their impressive robot, Larry Long Lengthenstein. The robot performed a demonstration that involved picking up white PVC pipes—referred to as "corals"—and placing them on an imaginary "reef" in a game called Reefscape. Team president Ben Wei, a senior, emphasized the significance of the task, stating, "While we don’t have the ‘reef’ with us today, the idea is to score points by assembling corals."
Leadership in Action
The robot was controlled by a proficient drive team, which included Duncan Ford, Amarachi Udeh, Dima Dolgov, and Wei himself. With Ben being the first member to join the team for six years, McMonigle reflected on his journey, highlighting the students’ dedication and innovation. "These kids put in literally hundreds of hours from January to May," he said.
Building a Legacy of Teamwork
As McMonigle introduced the team’s 27 members, 16 of whom were present to receive certificates of recognition, fellow board member Scott Bilsky remarked on their incredible teamwork. "The way they work together is absolutely stunning. Every year, they train the next generation of leaders and drivers," he noted, emphasizing the tradition and legacy they have built.
Excellence in Musical Performance
In addition to the robotics accolades, the Orange High School wind ensemble, symphonic band, and string orchestra were also recognized for achieving Superior (I) ratings at state competitions, further illustrating the school’s diverse talent pool. This marked the wind ensemble’s fourth consecutive Superior rating at the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) state event, held on May 2 at North Royalton High School.
A Historic First for the Symphonic Band
For the symphonic band, this year was especially noteworthy as it earned its first Superior rating at the state level. The success illustrates the growth of musical expertise in a program that just nine years ago struggled to even compete at the OMEA large-group contest. Assistant band director Jake Robinson expressed immense pride, remarking on the evolution of the group from its humble beginnings to now excelling at state competitions.
String Orchestra Makes History
Equally impressive, the orange string orchestra also earned a Superior (I) rating at the OMEA State Orchestra Contest earlier in February, marking a first for the orchestra program. Director Rebecca Ellsworth introduced the orchestra members at the meeting, highlighting this as a significant milestone in their history.
Honoring Transportation Staff
Recognizing achievements beyond academia, the Board honored nine bus drivers from Orange Schools who excelled in the North Region School Bus Safety Road-e-o. Their team, consisting of Jasmin Griswold, Teresa Jaszczak, Larry Germovsek, and Deb Burns, secured a first-place finish at the regional event, with Burns also winning individually.
A Testament to Teamwork and Commitment
The success continued into the State Road-e-o, held on May 10 in Galloway, where the team achieved a commendable third place. Director of Transportation Sheila Dikowicz praised the transportation team, emphasizing the camaraderie developed through participation in events like the Road-e-o.
Celebrating Staff Achievements
The meeting also provided an opportunity to recognize 15 staff members who will retire at the end of the school year, as well as three teachers awarded continuing contracts, signifying their commitment to the institution. This renewal of educators fosters an environment rich in expertise and mentorship.
Welcoming New Talent to the District
Looking forward, the Board approved contracts for four new teachers for the upcoming 2025-26 school year. These educators include Scott Gibson and Kyle McMahon, who will teach at Brady Middle School, along with Emily Jackson and Amber Smalley, who will serve as intervention specialists at Moreland Hills Elementary School. Their hiring indicates the school district’s commitment to bolstering its educational framework.
Pointing Toward the Future
The Board also accepted the retirement of Mary Massey, a dedicated nurse at Orange High School, set to be effective June 30, marking the end of a significant chapter in her career.
Building on Traditions of Excellence
The incredible achievements highlighted at the meeting not only reflect the hard work and dedication of students and staff but also underscore Orange High School’s continuing legacy of excellence across a range of disciplines—from robotics and music to education and transportation.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
As the Orange High School community continues to celebrate such outstanding achievements across various fields, it’s clear that the future holds great promise. With dedicated educators, talented students, and a history of perseverance, Orange High School is set to foster many more remarkable accomplishments in the coming years. The achievements celebrated during this momentous meeting highlight the power of community, teamwork, and commitment to excellence.
