Put-in-Bay School Shares November Panther Newsletter Highlights

Put-in-Bay School has released its November 2025 Panther Newsletter, marking the end of the first nine weeks of the 2025–2026 school year. Superintendent and Principal Scott Mangas recapped a busy fall filled with volleyball, cross country, field trips, and staff professional development.

Volleyball

After losing two key seniors and fielding a team with no seniors for the 2025 season, the Panther Volleyball Team exceeded expectations. While the 4–9 record may not fully reflect their performance, the team’s resilience was evident—they lost four matches in five sets and showed steady improvement throughout the season.

The Panthers played their best volleyball late in the year, setting a strong foundation for next season. Coach Schuffenecker praised his team:

“The ladies worked hard to get better and, by the end of the year, really met their potential. I’m really excited to have everyone back next season. Thank you to all the parents and community for their support.”

Cross Country

The 2025 cross country season was filled with numerous successes, with runners continuously handling adversity throughout the year—whether that meant pushing through injuries, balancing schoolwork, or chasing new personal records each meet. Although the team lacked experience and age, they never struggled with motivation or drive.

Coach Goodwin said it was rewarding to see athletes grow in discipline and effort as the season progressed.

“From the beginning of the season to the end, it has been a pleasure as a coach to see the athletes understand that hard work and discipline do pay off,” Goodwin said. “I could not have asked for a better season from all of the kids and could not be more proud of how the team ended.”

The team also benefitted from strong leadership by captain Caleb Kowlaski, who showed up to every practice and meet, leading by example and holding teammates accountable each day.

The Junior High team—Eli Heineman, Beckett Dobos, Landon Dillon, Carlos Juarez, Melody O’Donnell, and Harper Scarpelli—showed tremendous growth from their first practice to their last meet. Both Melody O’Donnel and Harper Scarpeli brought home medals during the season. Harper placed 20th at Seneca East, and Melody placed 12th at the Huron Meet with a personal best of 14:47.

The team wrapped up its season competing at both the High School Districts and the 7th and 8th Grade Postseason Meet, where multiple new personal records were set by Beckette Dobos, Landon Dillion, Melody O’Donnel, and Carlos Juarez.

Field Trips

Elementary students enjoyed a fall adventure visiting Fleitz Pumpkin Farm and Witt’s Apple Orchard, where they shared donuts and apple juice together.

High school art classes traveled to Cleveland, visiting the Aquarium, a glass-blowing studio, and a paper-making conservatory. Pictured are students in front of the aquarium and Michael Steidl creating a glass candle holder during the workshop.

Thanxmas Concert

Mark your calendars: the Thanxmas Concert will be held on November 20 at 7 PM. This program celebrates the spirit of Christmas, and families and community members are invited to attend before the holiday break.

Staff Professional Development

On October 17, school staff participated in a full day of professional development:

• Morning: CPR training, provided by Put-in-Bay EMS — thank you to the team for this important service.

• Afternoon: Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) training, led by Susie Leone from Perkins Schools.

The district appreciates everyone who helped make this professional development day successful and beneficial for staff.

Looking Ahead

Put-in-Bay School is off to a great start and looks forward to a smooth, successful rest of the school year. Superintendent Scott Mangas thanked parents, staff, and the community for their continued support of Panther students.