INDEPENDENCE, Ohio: Seventh-grade students at Independence Middle School are stepping into the role of storm scientists as they explore the dynamic forces behind rotating weather systems.
Students have been investigating how low-pressure systems form powerful spiraling storms known as vortices—just like the tornadoes and hurricanes they see in real-world weather events
Through hands-on demonstrations and lively discussions in Rio Vincz’s science classes students learned how air pressure, temperature, and motion work together to create these dramatic natural phenomena.
A school statement said: “The classroom buzzed with excitement as students watched mini ‘storms’ take shape and tested their own hypotheses about how vortices behave.”
“Vincz’s energetic and inquiry-driven approach brings complex science concepts to life, helping students deepen their understanding through creativity, experimentation, and teamwork. It’s safe to say this unit on weather created quite a whirlwind of learning at Independence Middle School.”
College bound sports stars at Independence High School
INDEEPENDENCE, Ohio – Two star athletes at Independence High School have signed National Letters of Intent to play volleyball at college level.
The pair committed their signatures at the Fall Signing Day held last month where they were recognized as standout athletes.
Anna Jirmasek, a member of the girls’ volleyball team, signed her National Letter of Intent to play at Loyola University Chicago.
And Giada Spisak will take her talents to Kenyon College, competing in women’s volleyball, after signing her National Letter of Intent.
Superintendent Kelli Cogan congratulated the student-athletes and said: “We’re incredibly proud of these young women for their dedication and achievements both in the classroom and on the field. Their hard work and character represent the very best of Independence High School.”
Athletic Director Danny Zillich echoed that sentiment, noting that Signing Day is a celebration of years of commitment and passion.
He said: “This milestone reflects not only their athletic success but also their perseverance and academic excellence. You can see the joy that both players have for their school and for volleyball.”
Independence football players hold food drive
INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – More than 100 pounds of food was collected by dedicated football players in Independence.
The seventh- and eighth-graders and their families committed to supporting Audrey’s Outreach food pantry in Brook Park in what has become a tradition led by Coach David Weiss.
And a further fun element to the tradition – any donating player gets to throw water balloons at the coaching staff.
More than 300 balloons were launched after this year’s drive and Weiss said: “As a coaching staff, being soaked and a little sore from the water balloon pelting is a small price to pay to encourage service leadership, and we’ve found that throwing water balloons at the coaches is highly motivating for the players to donate.”
Additional donations were gathered at the Fall Sports Awards Night in a Thanksgiving initiative, this time supporting Weiss’ workplace the Positive Education Program Prentiss Autism Center.
“The response was overwhelming,” Weiss shared. “My colleagues at PEP were blown away by the compassion and generosity shown by our football families.”
The team has also helped individual families in need, collecting essentials when two families at PEP found themselves homeless.
In addition to these community drives, a group of about 10 players spent part of their summer volunteering at PEP’s annual Summer Special Olympics event.
“My principal at PEP has repeatedly expressed how impressed she is with the respect, kindness, and helpfulness our players show when volunteering,” Weiss said. “It’s incredible to see our athletes grow into leaders who care about others.”
Superintendent Kelli Cogan praised the program’s example of leadership and compassion. She said: “The examples you shared truly demonstrate the impact that comes from teaching our students the importance of volunteering, compassion, and caring for others. Those are some of the most meaningful lessons we can provide – and it’s clear that your leadership is instilling those values in our student-athletes.”