Cuyahoga Heights Elementary School (CHES) has been selected as one of 63 schools nationwide as a 2026 National Distinguished School, by the National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators. CHES was singled out for achievement gains that have been particularly significant for economically disadvantaged students and students with disabilities, reflecting the school’s focus on closing gaps rather than simply raising overall scores.
"This recognition reflects years of thoughtful, collaborative work by our entire staff,” said CHES Principal Joel Melvin. “We made a commitment to high-quality instruction, aligned curriculum, and data-informed decision-making. Every step was centered on thoroughly knowing our students and meeting their individual needs. We believe that data tells a story about a child, not just a number, and that belief drives everything we do.”
An ESEA Distinguished School is a federally recognized school that demonstrates exceptional work in equity and student achievement under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). CHES was nominated by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce in Category 2: Closing the Achievement Gaps Between Student Groups. (View video here.)
The nomination recognizes CHES’s comprehensive approach to literacy instruction and intervention, centered on its "walk-to-intervention" model implemented four years ago. This model shifted the school's Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) by having students move to targeted small-group instruction that precisely meets their needs. During intervention blocks, five to ten staff members work simultaneously with small groups of students, addressing specific skills identified through ongoing data analysis. Every classroom teacher, specialist, interventionist, and Title I staff member provides targeted instruction daily within this structure.
In addition, CHES adopted evidence-based literacy materials before state mandates required them, redesigned the master schedule to protect intervention time, used universal diagnostics to guide both core instruction and targeted support, and built staff capacity through job-embedded professional development rather than one-time workshops. These investments have strengthened instruction, ensured timely intervention, and built systems that deliver personalized support for every student.
Families and community partnerships have also played a critical role. Programs, such as VIP Day, Tuck-In Tuesday read-alouds, PBIS celebrations, STEM Day, and Goodies with Grands, strengthen the home-school connection, while literacy nights, data conversations, and regular communication help families to support learning at home.
“This recognition reflects years of intentional, collaborative work by the entire elementary staff to ensure every student receives the instruction they need to succeed,” said Superintendent Matt Young. “Our elementary staff has built a sustainable model that not only raises achievement but closes gaps for our most vulnerable learners. We are incredibly proud of the equity-driven work happening at CHES.”
In February 2026, Melvin and elementary teachers Carrie Martens, Nikki Kasmarcak, Courtney Dennison, Jessica Dindia and Kelly Cummins will attend the ESEA conference in Denver, Co. where all nominated schools will be officially recognized. The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce will provide up to $5,000 in additional Title I funds to support the team’s attendance. The school will also present its practices at the Ohio state conference in April 2026.
“This recognition belongs to our entire community,” said Melvin. “From our staff to our families and community, everyone has played a role in creating a learning environment where every child is known, supported, and provided the tools and confidence to succeed.”
