News roundup for July 7

Sarah Cutright named associate principal at A.I. Root Middle School Pending approval by the Medina Board of Education, Sarah Cutright has been appointed as the new associate principal at A.I. Root Middle School. She will succeed Haley Mueller who recently accepted the role of principal at Independence Middle School. Cutright holds a bachelor's degree from Walsh University, a master's degree in special education from Miami University and a master's degree in educational leadership from the American College of Education. Throughout her career, Cutright has served in a variety of roles including as a grades seven through 12 social studies teacher, intervention specialist and dean of students. Most recently, she worked as the student services coordinator for Revere Schools where she focused on supporting the academic, social and emotional needs of students. "We are excited to welcome Sarah to Medina City Schools and the A.I. Root Middle School team," Principal Cindy Grice said. "Her experience and passion for working with middle school students will make her a valuable addition to our school community." Medina County Board of Development Disabilities offers new summer playgroup for toddlers The Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities is hosting a toddler summer splash party for families with children ages 3 and younger 11 a.m. Wednesday at Fred Greenwood Park and Splash Pad at 350 W. Sturbridge Drive in Medina. The board's early intervention staff will provide opportunities for sensory play, songs, toddler activities, early childhood development information and snacks. The goal of the group is to provide fun and informal community gatherings, based on a specific theme, which gives young families a chance to meet, form connections and share their experience raising toddlers. "Young children learn best from each other, which is why activities like our play, learn and grow group are great opportunities for families of young children to gather, have some fun with their child and meet and learn from new toddler playmates," said Celeste Bajorek, director of children's services. The splash party is free and open to any family with children ages 3 and younger regardless of if they have a disability. No registration is needed. Families are reminded to wear clothes that can get wet and to bring a towel if they will be using the splash pad. In case of rain, event updates will be posted at mcbdd.org. For more information or questions, contact early intervention staff at (330) 725-7751, Option 1. NOACA to host annual Commuter Choice Awards The Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency will hold the annual 2025 Northeast Ohio Commuter Choice Awards. It is a regional competition that recognizes and rewards employers who promote environmentally friendly commuting options like walking, cycling, carpool, public transportation or telecommuting. The 2025 campaign, "Join the Movement: Commute for a Better Tomorrow" encourages employers to provide sustainable commuting options while raising awareness of the environmental and social impacts of commuting. Northeast Ohio companies and organizations in Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain and Medina counties, regardless of size, are eligible for the competition. Companies are encouraged to sign up by July 30 for the competition, which runs through August. Participating organizations are eligible to win gold, silver and bronze prizes based on their overall performance and introduction of creative ways to reduce emissions. Winners will be announced in December and recognized at the NOACA January 2026 Board of Directors meeting. Gohio Commute is a program from the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency that helps organizations design and implement custom commuter programs for their employees. Employers, schools and universities can create their own subsite community within the platform to help bring employees seeking commuting alternatives together. Car and vanpool matching services, detailed maps and routes, bicycle and pedestrian routes and public transit options are available. For more information on the NEO Commuter Choice Awards and how to participate, review the requirements at tinyurl.com/5fvtey5u.