THE RETURN OF THE EYE

Welcome Spring

By: BHS News Staff

March 5, 2024

Welcome to a new month, Brooklyn. It is hard to believe that this school year will conclude in less than three months. Time flies when you are having fun, right?

Speaking of fun, senior pit crew member Zach Messeri is excited and ready for next week’s performance of The Little Mermaid.

In his final year with the pit band, Messeri is happy to spend the last few moments waiting for next week’s show to commence.

“This musical is exciting because it feels fresh and modern. There is a lot of hype around The Little Mermaid. My favorite memory of being a part of the pit is the feeling of opening night! Also, ‘Under the Sea’ is a fun number, which will be most exciting for the audience.”

Zach, good luck next week. You also need to break a leg!

Speaking of the musical, it’s showtime! Come out and support Brooklyn High School’s Drama Club for their annual Spring Musical. The Little Mermaid will be performed on Thursday, March 14 at 7:00, Friday, March 15 at 7:00, and Saturday, March 16 at 2:00 and 7:00. Tickets are $10 at the door.

For younger grades, come attend Ariel’s “Under the Sea” Tea Party. Have the best time making crafts, getting a Tea Party shirt, and most importantly, meet the cast. Ariel, Ursula, Flounder, Sebastian, and Scuttle will all be there to take pictures. The Tea Party cost is $25 and includes one ticket to the 2:00 Saturday show.

Last Thursday, we had an assembly with guest speaker Art Gelbart from the Kol Israel Foundation. Mr. Gelbart came to BHS to educate students about his experience as a Holocaust survivor in Poland when he was just 10-years-old. Detailing his life experiences and immigration to Cleveland, students were able to speak with a survivor and understand why it is important to continue to educate against antisemitism. Brooklyn students and staff were honored to be able to have Mr. Gelbart share his story.

For a full Cleveland Plain Dealer article on Mr. Gelbart’s presentation, click here.

Moving forward, Student Council is organizing another Blood Drive this Friday, March 8. Remember that you must be at least 16-years-old to sign up. Those under the age of 18 MUST have a parental permission slip. If there are any questions, see Mrs. Bader.

Reminder to all SENIORS and JUNIORS, Malley’s fundraiser money is due on March 22. If you would like more boxes, see Mrs. Holko immediately as there are only a few more boxes left. Your $50 prom deposit is also due on March 22.

Lastly, here is your March calendar:

March 6: SAT/PSAT
March 8: Blood Drive
March 14-16: Drama Club’s Production of The Little Mermaid
March 15: Teacher Records Day/Inservice (NO SCHOOL)
March 18: Hurricette Auditions
March 22: Prom Ticket Deposits/Malley’s Fundraiser Due
March 29: Good Friday (NO SCHOOL)

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, make sure to click here weekly.}

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Ullemeyer

*5th Grade Intervention Specialist*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

March 1, 2024

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Lana Ullemeyer. This is currently her first year in the Brooklyn City School District. Before coming to Brooklyn, she was an Intervention Specialist at Garfield Heights Middle School for 11 years. Prior to that, she was an event planner for a catering company, sometimes planning events for up to 1,300 people. In her free time, she can be found coaching figure skating for the Cleveland Ice Storm. She also loves going to Cavs games with her husband and two sons. A fun fact about Mrs. Ullemeyer is that she was in a Super Bowl Halftime Show!

Q: How do you assess a student’s progress?

A: “For the students on my caseload, I use a variety of ways to assess their progress. I use observations and work samples to assess them while they are learning a topic or concept. This helps me to pinpoint certain areas that they might need some extra help in. For progress monitoring, I use class quizzes and tests to assess their overall understanding.”

Q: How is student learning personalized?

A: “There is no doubt that everyone learns differently, and everyone learns at a different pace. Some ways that I have seen Brooklyn teachers personalize their students’ learning are through flexible seating, project-based learning, providing choice activities, and goal setting.”

Q: What is your perspective on homework?

A: “I see both sides to homework. I do think there are some benefits to homework. It helps to reinforce the things that you learned in class (especially Math) and also teaches skills like organization and time management. But at the same time, as a mother of a child with a learning disability and ADHD, I know that some kids are just done at the end of the school day.”

Q: What has been your clumsiest accident?

A: “I can’t think of one specific incident, but I have been known to stub my toes on furniture quite frequently.”

Q: What is a typical Saturday night like for you?

A: “A typical Saturday night for me would be relaxing with my family at home and watching a movie or a game.”

Q: What would your students be surprised to find out about you?

A: “My husband is a teacher, too. He teaches Physical Education at Garfield Heights Middle School. Yes, that is where we met.”

Q: If you could grow up in any decade, which would you choose?

A: “I really enjoyed growing up in the 80s and 90s, and I do not think that I would change that. I know what life was like before all of this technology, but I also see how technology has helped us in so many ways.”

Thank you for letting us interview you, Mrs. Ullemeyer. It was a pleasure getting to know more about you. The fact that you were in a Super Bowl Halftime Show is crazy and very cool!

Blue Devils Stun The Hurricanes

By: BHS Sports Staff

February 29, 2024

On Tuesday, the boys basketball team played their sectional semi-final game against conference rival, the Independence Blue Devils.

The Hurricanes tallied a record of 14-8, while the visiting Blue Devils came in with a sub .500 record of 10-12. The stakes were high in this matchup as the winner would move onto the sectional final tomorrow to play Wellington, and the loser would go home.

Right out the gate, the Blue Devils knocked down two three-pointers, and senior Jaiden Ramos picked up two early fouls. However, the Hurricanes were able to bounce back with great plays on both ends of the floor, hitting timely shots and locking down defensively. The hosts led by as many as seven points, but the Blue Devils were able to cut their deficit to five. After one quarter, the Canes led 17-12.

The energy in the building was unmatched with both student sections being loud and cheering on their teams. Simply, it was a great atmosphere with 24 minutes still to go.

In the second quarter, Brooklyn jumped out to a 7-2 run, but Independence answered back with a 7-0 run of their own. The rest of the quarter was back-and-forth, and the Blue Devils were able to tie up the score late in the half. But, it was the Hurricanes who went into the break with the lead, 30-28.

With two quarters left to play, which team would make the better adjustments and come through when it mattered most?

In the third quarter, the Hurricanes were able to keep a slight lead, but the Blue Devils would not go down easy. After Independence knocked down two consecutive threes, senior Anthony Pytel nailed a huge And-1 play to really get the home crowd going. And in games of this magnitude, things did get chippy. Late in the third, freshman Muhammad Manigat and Independence’s Noah Terrano got into a scuffle, leading to a double technical being called. After the scene settled down, Brooklyn held a three-point lead through three quarters with Pytel leading the way with 13, followed by Ramos with 10.

One quarter to play with the season on the line!

In the final quarter, the Hurricanes came out hot, knocking down three straight triples, forcing Independence to call a timeout. This really got the home crowd going as they led 54-47 with four minutes to go.

However, the momentum was beginning to shift in favor of the Blue Devils. The Hurricanes could not grab a rebound on the defensive side, giving Independence multiple shots. They also could not convert on the offensive side of the floor. In just two minutes, Independence erased the Hurricanes’ lead and took a lead of their own, 57-56. This would be their first lead since 6-2 early in the first quarter.

The Blue Devils continued to play mistake-free basketball through the final two minutes, holding the Hurricanes down. They also made their clutch free throws to seal the comeback victory.

Final Score: Independence 61, Brooklyn 56

The loss marks the end of the boys basketball season, as they finished 14-9. It was a rollercoaster of a season for the Canes, but they had a really good season overall, capped off with numerous big-time wins.

Nice job, boys!

In other sports news, good luck to sophomore Adam Cowper as he travels to Columbus tomorrow for the state bowling tournament.

Stay tuned for a Winter Sports Recap and a Spring Sports Preview.

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Senior Spotlight: Logan Cornwell

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

February 28, 2024

Chosen for this week’s second senior spotlight is Logan Cornwell. Logan is humorous, relaxed, and easy-going. He has been working at Piada Italian Street Food for the last 11 months. He is also a big baseball fan, but unfortunately, he roots for the Yankees. 👎🏻

Q: What are your plans after high school?

A: “I would like to go to college and study Criminology.”

Q: What character from a movie/TV show would you like to be?

A: “The life of Spiderman is sad in some aspects, but swinging around New York City, taking pictures, and fighting crime sounds like a pretty cool experience.”

Q: If you had one last meal, what would it be?

A: “Chocolate chip pancakes with French toast sticks, a side of sausage patties, my mom’s dinner rolls, an eight-ounce tomahawk steak, and garlic breadsticks.”

Q: Describe three ways that you have changed since your freshman year.

A: “I stopped playing basketball in high school, my maturity improved, and my interest in a bunch of different hobbies began while some ended.”

Q: What impact did the global Covid-19 pandemic have on your high school experience?

A: “Definitely impacted the way I learned. Learning became more independent while remote with there being a communication barrier; having to email a teacher for help could be a slow process. And, it slowed down the lesson’s progression. Social interactions also became minimal on remote learning with all of us being used to seeing each other every day.”

Q: If you could travel anywhere out of the country, where would it be?

A: “Honestly, Iceland just to be able to see the Blue Lagoon on top of the Northern Lights with plenty of falls to explore.”

Q: What is something that you believe every high school student should experience during their senior year?

A: “I believe every senior should experience the enjoyment of their last year with other seniors. Whether it’s planning a senior sunrise, going out for breakfast on days off, etc. This final year provides a chance to make countless memories and also gives you a chance to reflect on memories.”

Q: If you had a song play every time you walked into a room, what would it be?

A: “‘Party In The U.S.A.’ by Miley Cyrus. It’s hard not to jam to this song when it comes on. I mean, we could be in a room with 100 people, and when it comes on, you have yourself a concert.”

Q: Describe senioritis.

A: “Senioritis to me is feeling like you’ve already graduated. Once you realize you’re so close and have nothing really else to do, you’ll kind of just hang back and won’t do work or maybe won’t show up to school.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been the biggest inspiration and/or influence to you?

A: “Mrs. Bader, 100 percent! It’s hard not to love her when she’s everywhere, hosting different events, yelling at her students (not teaching), taking pictures for the yearbook, or maybe in the gym running the blood drive (never given blood herself). My point is she’s everywhere because of the amount of energy she brings everyday. The amount she puts into her projects that she has going on is admirable for multiple different reasons. She is an amazing teacher to go to when you just need a break, and she knows how to keep it real. The amount of memories Mrs. Bader and I have created from eighth grade to now will be cherished for a long time. Our connection is not going anywhere.”

Logan, thank you for your time. We hope that you achieve your short-term and long-term goals. By the way, Go Indians (Guardians)!

Senior Spotlight: Amber Rice

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

February 28, 2024

Chosen for this week’s first senior spotlight is Amber Rice. Amber is generous, kind, hard working, bossy, and very compassionate. She has been a host at The Aviator Pub & Event Center for eight months. Also, she has been a part of the play for numerous years. She was Gretchen in Freaky Friday, an acrobat/dancer in Matilda, Sister Mary Robert in Sister Act, and now Ariel in The Little Mermaid. She likes to watch TV shows, hangout with her sister, and play with her dogs.

Q: What are your plans after high school?

A: “After my schooling and training, I plan on becoming a Behavioral Therapist.”

Q: What has high school taught you about your future?

A: “High school has taught me many things like how to communicate with others and how important maturity is.”

Q: What high school memory stands out to you?

A: “My favorite memory from my high school experience has to be throwing my favorite teacher Mr. Kaspar a birthday party.”

Q: How do you manage your time with school, work, and the play?

A: “I make sure to get my work done when it’s assigned. I only work on the weekends, so I can have time for play practice. I also practice my lines with my sister for 30-45 minutes a day.”

Q: What impact did the global Covid-19 pandemic have on your high school experience?

A: “Covid-19 lowered my performance in school, and I just stopped caring about my grades. It also limited my social interactions with my friends and family.”

Q: How does it feel to have the lead role of Ariel in The Little Mermaid?

A: “I feel really excited, and I’m able to come out of my shell a little more and just proud to be part of the production and be able to make it come alive.”

Q: Describe senioritis.

A: “Senioritis, to me, is feeling tired and not wanting to come to school.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been the biggest inspiration and/or influence to you?

A: “Mr. Kaspar because I see him bringing things in to support students throughout the day, caring about others, teaching me new things I never would’ve thought I would be able to do, helping me discover new things about myself, pushing me to be the best that I can be, and just a good teacher, overall.”

Amber, we hope you achieve everything you want to this year. Best of luck in the play, and of course, break a leg!

The Little Mermaid: Crew Preview

By: BHS News Staff

February 27, 2024

As February winds down, we know that March will produce the Drama Club’s performance of Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Our first part preview revolves around the crew, led by senior Anisha Monger.

In her final year as a crew member, Monger is excited for this year’s performance but also knows the emotion of this year’s set-up because it will be her last here at BHS.

“It’s really exciting getting everything ready and seeing it all come together. I think it’s really cool to see how all the colors work with the lighting. It will definitely be a really cool set. A lot of my friends and some of the other seniors started learning sign language to connect with me, and when I first started, it helped me get used to things. I really value this and will miss being a part of the crew after I graduate.”

Thank you so much Anisha for your dedication and hard work. You and the crew do a wonderful job, and we cannot wait to see your efforts pay off.

In other news, Brooklyn is delighted to have the Kol Israel Foundation speak to grades 6-12 this Thursday. We will hear from a Holocaust Survivor who will speak to the next generation of students to make sure that the Holocaust is never forgotten or repeated. We are looking forward to this presentation.

Next, this Thursday is Spring Parent/Teacher Conferences, so please make sure that you are in high academic standing. Reminder, the third quarter closes on Thursday, March 14.

Also on Thursday, the second annual College and Career Resource Fair will be held from 5:00-7:00 in the high school cafeteria. Be sure to look professional and provide a resume, if possible. There will be many opportunities to chat with professionals and to grab literature from local colleges, companies, and military branches. It is never too early to begin thinking about your future.

Finally, on Wednesday, March 6, students will be taking the SAT/PSAT in grade levels 8-11. If you are a senior, make sure to check the 2024 Google Classroom for your schedule for March 6.

To cap it off, here is your calendar for the end of February/early March:

February 27: Group Photo Day
February 29: Spring Parent/Teacher Conferences
February 29: College and Career Resource Fair
March 1: NO SCHOOL
March 6: SAT/PSAT
March 8: Blood Drive
March 14-16: Drama Club’s Production of The Little Mermaid

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, make sure to click here weekly.}

Staff Spotlight: Miss McQuiston

*ELL Teacher*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

February 23, 2024

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Miss Emily McQuiston. This is currently her third year in the Brooklyn City School District. Before working here, Miss McQuiston taught for 10 years at the Ohio Migrant Education Center; she also taught in Costa Rica for two-and-a-half years. In her free time, she enjoys reading books, baking, hiking in the woods, and staying physically active. A fun fact about her is that she lived in three countries and went to South Africa last Summer.

Q: What inspired you to become an ELL instructor?

A: “I love working with English Language Learners. There are very unique challenges. They are very gifted, and they come to us with incredible gifts. They can share it with us. They come to us bilingual. It’s really powerful to see them having this amazing multi-lingual capacity. They just enrich my world. The more I learn about them and their families, their languages, and their culture, the more I love learning about the differences, so we know the ways that we are different and the ways that we are alike. I am always fascinated by how many different languages work.”

Q: How do you build relationships with your students?

A: “I learn as much as I can about them, connect with them as much as I can, and try to be friendly with their families as they are comfortable with me. It helps that I speak Spanish since we have a lot of kids who speak Spanish. Even with the kids when I don’t speak their home language, I just make sure that my space is as welcoming for them and wherever they are. I try to make sure that they are represented in everything by just talking to them and by eating lunch with them when I can.”

Q: How many different languages do you serve?

A: “It’s different every year. I think about 11 in total. Last year, we had Hindi, but we don’t have that this year.”

Q: Describe a good day at school.

A: “A good day is every day here. I am privileged to have a position here to work with such amazing students and staff. Testing: I test a lot. The days when I can be teaching the kids is great.”

Q: Is there a quote or saying that you live by?

A: “Trust in the Lord, every day.”

Q: Describe yourself using three words.

A: “Dedicated, Peaceful, and Caring.”

Q: Have you ever traveled outside of The United States?

A: “Yes, I have. I travel quite a bit. I have lived in Spain and Costa Rica. My first experience out of the U.S. was in France. I also studied in Mexico and Columbia, and went to Uruguay. I traveled to Nicaragua, and I have been to Italy, England, Switzerland, South Africa, Morocco, and Amsterdam. I have been able to travel quite a bit. When I lived in Spain, everything was a train right away or a lot cheaper to get around there.”

Q: What is your favorite cultural tradition?

A: “I like baking and going to see Christmas lights.”

Thank you for taking some time to let us interview you, Miss McQuiston. You have a gift to reach all English Language Learners, and we know that they are grateful for you. Have a great rest of the year, and keep traveling.

So Close

By: BHS Sports Staff

February 22, 2024

With the conference title up for grabs, this boys basketball season literally came down to one game with the winner being crowned as CVC Metro champions.

Last Friday, the Hurricanes traveled to Fairview in a winner-take-all matchup. The Canes have not won a conference title since 2005, and that was in the old MAC 8. So, this was a huge game for them.

The Hurricanes came into the contest as winners of their last six games, while the Warriors were coming off of a loss to Clearview.

Right out the gate, the Hurricanes knocked down multiple three-pointers, but the Warriors quickly responded with buckets of their own. The hosts played great defense in the first quarter and played well on both ends of the floor in this back-and-forth tussle. Senior Jaiden Ramos then knocked down a three in the final seconds to put Brooklyn within one possession.

After one, Fairview led 14-11.

In the second quarter, the Warriors jumped out to a 7-2 run, but multiple threes by junior Tyler Cox got the Hurricanes back in the game. With just a few seconds left before halftime, Ramos threw down a fastbreak dunk to get the Brooklyn faithful pumped up.

Heading into the locker room, the Hurricanes had the momentum, only trailing by two, 25-23.

With one half to play, who would cut down the nets?

The answer was Fairview as they started off the third quarter on an 18-3 run. The Hurricanes struggled on both ends of the floor, and the Warriors led by as much as 17. The visitors, however, did not stop fighting and clawed their way back, erasing the 17-point deficit to eight points.

After three, the Warriors led 45-37 with the final quarter to come.

In the fourth quarter, the Hurricanes kept battling as they brought the lead all the way down to four, but they could not come back down the stretch as Fairview locked up the Metro Title, their fourth championship in the last six seasons.

Final Score: Fairview 63, Brooklyn 53

With the loss, the Hurricanes dropped to 13-8 overall (5-3 in the conference), but the regular season is not over as they play host tonight against Max Hayes at 6:45.

Even though the loss to Fairview stings, the boys still have a lot to play for, beginning next Tuesday as they host the Independence Blue Devils in the OHSAA Sectional Semi-Finals. Tip-off is at 7:00, so come on out to root the boys on as they look to advance in the postseason.

Finally, the girls basketball team travels to Chippewa on Saturday for their Sectional Final matchup. Tip-off is at 1:00. Good luck, Lady Canes!

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Senior Spotlight: Jaiden Ramos

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

February 21, 2024

Chosen for this week’s second senior spotlight is Jaiden Ramos. Jaiden is outgoing, determined, and athletic. His hobbies include basketball, hanging out with friends, and playing video games. He has been involved in basketball for almost 11 years, now.

Q: What is one rule that you live by?

A: “Strive for greatness!”

Q: What are your plans after high school?

A: “I plan to attend Toledo University to major in Exercise Science and to play basketball.”

Q: What has been the most challenging aspect of your senior year?

A: “The most challenging thing for me is probably coming to school on time, everyday.”

Q: Do you think high school has prepared you for the real world?

A: “Yes, a lot of the teachers are true about the real world.”

Q: What would you do if you won $10 million?

A: “I would go to every Lakers game, courtside.”

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world with anyone, who would it be?

A: “I would go to Cancun with LeBron James because he is my idol, and I would love to spend quality time with him.”

Q: What is your go-to meal?
A: “Chicken tenders with fries, BBQ sauce, and sweet tea.”

Q: Describe senioritis.

A: “It’s the motivation to not come to school because the end is so close.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been the biggest inspiration and/or influence to you?

A: “I would say Mr. Holko because he always keeps it real with me and always keeps me on track with school, especially my senior year.”

Jaiden, good luck with your future plans at Toledo. In the meantime, finish off your high school career in a dominant fashion.

Senior Spotlight: Ashlyn Dyson

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

February 21, 2024

Chosen for this week’s first senior spotlight is Ashlyn Dyson. Ashlyn is generous, athletic, and caring. In her free time, she enjoys working out, trying new food spots, getting acai bowls, and going to parks, especially to watch the sunset. Ashlyn has been playing basketball since fifth grade beginning with the Junior Canes and is now breaking her own records at BHS.

Q: What are your plans after high school?

A: “I’m going to Marietta College to major in Psychology and to play basketball.”

Q: Who inspires you the most?

A: “My little brother, Cameron, because he always has a positive attitude throughout anything, and he always stays true to himself, no matter what.”

Q: What advice do you have for next year’s incoming freshmen?

A: “My advice is to build your own path; don’t follow all of the trends and what’s popular because what’s popular is not always what’s best. Stay true to yourself, and do what makes you happy.”

Q: What is your dream vacation?

A: “I would say Colorado because I’ve always wanted to see the mountains and the landmarks that they have there. The weather seems nice, too.”

Q: How do you manage your time with school, work, and sports?

A: “I prioritize what’s important to me. I make sure school stuff is handled and then work on basketball. After that, I fit work into my schedule.”

Q: What was your favorite memory during high school?

A: “I would say the beginning of my senior year because my peers and I did a lot of senior activities, which brought us closer together. It was also nice to get to know some people I wasn’t as close with.”

Q: Have you ever predicted an event and then it happened?

A: “It happens all the time. It’s hard for me to narrow down just one time.”

Q: Describe senioritis.

A: “It’s kind of like an unmotivating motivation because you’re motivated that you’re at the end of your required schooling, but at the same time, you’re so close that you just want to jump to the end.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been the biggest inspiration and/or influence to you?

A: “Mrs. Raglow from Brunswick because she always kept it real with us and was a mother to her students. She was funny, inspirational, gave life advice, and supported our futures.”

Ashlyn, we hope that you have an amazing rest of your senior year. We are blessed to have you here at BHS. Best of luck at Marietta and beyond.

Honoring Our Own

By: BHS News Staff

February 20, 2024

Hello, Brooklyn!

Typically every week, the BHS News Staff provides our loyal readers with information on upcoming events and dates. This week, however, will be different as a notable Hurricane alum takes the spotlight after celebrating her 75th wedding anniversary.

Last Thursday, we had the exciting opportunity to interview an extraordinary Brooklyn alumni. Irene (Novak) Wootton is from the class of 1947. She was her class’s salutatorian, a varsity cheerleader, a member of the Honors Society, and had perfect attendance for all four years of high school.

She was also a cheerleader for the first football game at Brooklyn High School in 1946 and the first Brooklyn Queen during both her sophomore and junior years. In our interview with her, she said that school spirit was very high when she was a student, and football games and other events had school-wide participation.

Novak was definitely a busy student, both in-and-out of the classroom. So, how did she manage her time?

“I don’t know, everything just kinda flowed. It just seems like a long time ago. We didn’t go anywhere and had no phones, so school was everything. I loved school and was always involved in everything. I jumped hurdles, and I played basketball. My mother worked in the cafeteria, so for money, we would do the dishes to help out. We would go to the store after school for ice cream with our earnings. Life was good and simple.”

Novak fondly remembers growing up in Brooklyn, which she referenced as a very close-knit community.

“I grew up in a farmhouse down on Biddulph Road. Growing up in the Great Depression, we fed a lot of people from our garden; we had four cows and sold milk, along with eggs and vegetables. My mother sewed all our clothes throughout our younger years. Growing up, I babysat down the street for a dollar. I had four brothers, and one of them passed at 13-years-old. Our town was so small that everyone came to the funeral, so people remember it to this day. That’s how everything was with our town, though; we were just a small village with a graduation class size of 28 or 29 students. We all knew each other and did everything together from Sock Hops in the gym to just hanging out. For Christmas, we would get popcorn or oranges, and we were in heaven! We were poor, but we didn’t know it.”

After high school, Irene Novak became Irene Wootton, as she married her husband and later became the mother of four children. Outside of family, she drove the Parma School Bus for 45 years. She enjoyed the kindergartens along with having the Summers off.

When asked about her family, she was very excited to share her lineage.

“My whole family went to Brooklyn, including my husband. My husband and I just celebrated our 75th wedding anniversary. He was a surgical technician in the service, and when he got out, he started working at Republic Steel. I met him when we went Polka dancing one night at the Homestead. He came and picked me up, and we danced all night, and after that was history! We dated for about nine months and then got married in 1949 and had our first girl in 1951. We have four kids, all currently in different job fields. When the kids were growing up, we went seasonal camping as a family. We played Bocce, square-danced, and went swimming. Great memories! I also have nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren with one more on the way. Having such a big family, there is always something to look forward to.”

Currently in her 90s, Wootton has not slowed down, and she does not plan to slow down any time soon.

“My husband and I watch TV, we go on the computer, and we read the newspaper. We don’t have a lot of friends left with us anymore, so we meet with some of the people still around. I do my housework. I like to iron, and I cook three meals a day which I hate because I don’t like to cook! The kids come over a lot, and we have lots of parties because we party for everything. I still drive occasionally to run some errands, and tomorrow, I am going to the hairdresser. My daughter won’t be happy, but what can she do about it?” 😂

In such a fast-paced society with a busy daily calendar, it is refreshing to hear from someone who came before us and how proud she is to have grown up in Brooklyn. Listening to her tell stories about her past, her fond memories, and her family was a breath of fresh air.

Simply, it was an honor to interview Mrs. Irene (Novak) Wootton. She is Brooklyn and makes Brooklyn proud. In her own words, “Brooklyn will always be my forever home!”

Happy 75 years of marriage! May you two be blessed with many more celebrations.

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Lee

*Preschool Teacher*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

February 16, 2024

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Sarah Lee. This is currently her third year teaching third grade in the Brooklyn School. Previously, she taught first grade for seven years at Westpark Community Elementary in Cleveland. Mrs. Lee likes to travel with her family, along with camping, hiking, and swimming. A fun fact about her is that she lived in Australia during college, and she got to scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef.

Q: What do you like most about being a preschool teacher?

A: “I love the laughter that comes from all of the kids, daily. I also love all the singing, playing, and art. These little ones remind me to enjoy the simple things in life.”

Q: What are the key responsibilities in your job?

A: “You have many responsibilities as a preschool teacher. You are a child’s first teacher. You make a big impression, a difference, and impact the lives of their families. We focus on their social skills and how they interact with each other. We focus on the basic academic skills that set them up for success in Kindergarten, and we focus on serving families and introducing them to the school environment.”

Q: What do you think is one of the most challenging issues facing young children today?

A: “I think children are required to learn a lot more than they are ready to learn at such a young age. I also think children are spending too much time on screens and not enough time outside. Basically, after years of teaching, I think kids need to play more.”

Q: What does your classroom look like on a typical day?

A: “We are very routine in preschool. We have circle time, gross motor time (which is either outside or in the motor room), brain time, story time, snack time, and most importantly, play time where children can choose their centers and where they want to play. I love art, so we always have fun art projects going on, and there is always something fun at the Dramatic Play Center. Right now, it is a Donut Shop. We teach in themes in preschool, so we change our centers to fit our themes, and the children love that.”

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve?

A: “People driving too slow on the highway, so I am normally running late.”

Q: Spring break plans?

A: “I plan on taking my kids to Great Wolf Lodge.”

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

A: “I would go to Bali; I want to stay in one of those really small beach huts right on the clear, blue water. I love the ocean.”

Q: If you won the lottery, what would you do with your money?

A: “If I won the lottery, I would build myself a big house in the country, but I would also want to build one for everyone in my family. I know I would try to help as many people as I could. I would also go to as many concerts as possible.”

Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions, Mrs. Lee. We wish you all the best throughout the rest of the year and wish you a great Spring break. By the way, scuba diving in the Great Barrier is awesome!