In addition to learning academically, middle school is a time for social development and growth. Building positive peer relationships, practicing conversational skills, and learning to interact with classmates outside of their immediate friend groups, were the objectives of a Game Day Social held on Friday, February 27 at Cuyahoga Heights Middle School.
Sponsored by the district’s PTO, the event, held during the final 90 minutes of the school day, provided a variety of board games and social activities to promote teamwork, cooperation, sportsmanship, and competition in a safe, supervised environment where all students could participate and feel included.
“The Game Day Social reflects our shared commitment to building a school experience that is engaging, supportive, and centered on whole-child development,” noted High School/Middle School Principal Scott DeTray. “Rooted in the PTO’s mission to enrich the educational experience and foster student development, the day focused on strengthening connections and supporting the whole child.”
During the event, the cafeteria and south gym were transformed into 17 different game stations and activities, including cornhole, UNO, Battleship, Connect 4, Giant Jenga, Ping Pong, 3-point shootout, and more. Craft stations, such as beading and therapeutic coloring, offered calming outlets to support student well-being. Students provided input during the planning phase by ranking their preferences to nearly three dozen games. Each student received a personalized ticket for three games, refreshments and entry to a raffle for prizes.
Under the direction of PTO President and Cuyahoga Heights Schools Board Member Carolyn Pajestka, the PTO purchased the games and supplies, provided pizza, snacks, drinks, hundreds of prizes, and offered 35 gift cards to be raffled. Many food items and games were generously donated by PTO parents. DeTray and Middle School PTO Liaison Michelle Studier also helped coordinate aspects of the event. The Media Center staff helped print posters and provided tickets for games, refreshments, and raffles. Several PTO volunteers also assisted during the event.
“Students ended the day with positive memories, strengthened peer connections, and a deeper sense of belonging,” said DeTray about the event. His comments were echoed by Pajestka: “Students came away with a positive memory and meaningful experience, and, we hope, a stronger connection between themselves and their school.”
