As we look ahead to the final 33 days of the school year, there is a genuine sense of excitement and energy throughout our schools.
From our youngest learners in Kindergarten to our seniors preparing to graduate, our classrooms and hallways are filled with meaningful learning, growth, and pride in our accomplishments.
This is a special time of year—one that brings both celebration and reflection. Our Class of 2026 is eagerly anticipating graduation, marking the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance. Along the way, they will enjoy memorable milestones such as prom and their final weeks as high school students.
We also look forward to celebrating the incredible talents of our students through the final weekend of the MHS production of Cinderella from April 17–19, as well as the Fine Arts Showcase on April 25–26. These events highlight the creativity, dedication, and passion that define our school community.
Personally, I always find myself reflecting during this season with a great deal of pride and joy—thinking about where we began and how far we have come together.
The progress our students have made is remarkable, and it is a testament to the diligent work of our teachers and staff.
Be sure to give an extra "thank you" to our teachers and staff as we celebrate Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week May 4-8th.
While this time of year can feel fast-paced and even a bit overwhelming, I encourage everyone to embrace the excitement. Soon, the final bell will ring, and we will collectively celebrate a job well done.
Until then, Let's Go!
With appreciation and pride,
Dr. Michael J. Barnes
Superintendent
5 STAR RATING
Complete results of Mayfield City Schools 2024 Report Card can be found at the following link
This month we feature both CEVEC and EXCEL TECC students, teachers and staff sharing how their programs help to prepare them for college, technical schools, or careers through hands-on training and real-world experiences. CEVEC & EXCEL TECC will be the Building Spotlights at the regular meeting of the Board of Education Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 5:30 pm at the Mayfield Innovation Center, 6625 Wilson Mills Road, Mayfield Village. #mychoicemayfield #startwithyes
PAWS Mayfield Doggy Day Care
Mayfield Launches Innovative Student-Led Workforce Program
Mayfield City Schools proudly announce the launch of PAWS Mayfield Doggy Day Care, an innovative, student-led business designed to provide real-world workforce training for Mayfield High School students with disabilities while offering high-quality care for community dogs.
Aligned with the Ohio Means Jobs Work-Readiness Rubric and enriched as a Work-Based Learning (WBL) program, PAWS integrates 11 career fields and 15 workplace competencies into a dynamic, hands-on learning environment.
“We wanted to think outside of the box,” said Kati Tomco, CEVEC Principal and Coordinator of Special Education. “We want to teach, train, and grow our students to develop skills for independent living. We could have opened a coffee shop or sandwich stand—but PAWS Mayfield Doggy Day Care meets our students’ needs in an environment filled with tangible job and life skills, innovation and creativity. The sky is the limit.”
The program - which will open its doors in August 2026 - will serve students enrolled in the Mayfield Workforce Academy, equipping them with essential skills for independent living and future employment. The Mayfield Workforce Academy replaces CEVEC, effective at the end of the 2025-26 school year, as a result of participating districts choosing to provide vocational programs for students with disabilities in their home districts.
Students participating in PAWS will develop critical employability skills including reliability, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, professionalism, and leadership. Under the guidance of trained job coaches and staff, students will engage in meaningful, real-world tasks validated by mentors across school, community, and workplace settings.
The facility, which will be located in the current CEVEC space attached to the Mayfield Innovation Center, will include indoor play and care areas, outdoor play zones (weather permitting), and dedicated spaces for retail, kitchen, and housekeeping functions related to dog care. Comprehensive safeguards will be in place, including staff supervision, on-site cameras, daily sanitization, and individualized temperament assessments for each dog.
PAWS will initially serve up to 10 dogs owned by Mayfield staff, with plans to expand following a successful pilot phase. The cost is $25 per day.
While providing a safe, structured, and engaging environment for pets, PAWS also embraces its mission: a vocational and independent living training program for our students where every dog receives abundant care, attention, and affection.
Daily Schedule Highlights:
7:15–7:45 AM: Arrival and check-in
8:00–11:00 AM: Morning enrichment, play, and supervision
11:00 AM–12:00 PM: Outdoor play (weather permitting)
12:00–2:00 PM: Rest time with calming environment
2:00–3:00 PM: Afternoon play and enrichment
3:00–3:30 PM: Pickup and daily report cards
Enrollment requires a completed application, signed waiver, and up-to-date vaccination records. Each dog will participate in a trial day to ensure a safe and
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE
MMS Guidance Counselor John Paydo Named 2026 OMLA Educator of the Year
Congratulations to John Paydo, named the 2026 Educator of the Year by the Ohio Middle Level Association! Mr. Paydo was recently surprised with the incredible honor of being named the "2026 OMLA Educator of the Year" during a gathering in Cleveland, surrounded by family, friends, and colleagues. Nominated by his Mayfield peers and selected for this prestigious state-wide recognition, Mr. Paydo exemplifies excellence in middle-level education.
"His dedication to students, passion for teaching, and commitment to building strong relationships make a lasting impact every day," said MMS Principal Jackie McLaughlin. "John goes above and beyond to support student success and serve as a role model for both students and staff."
Mayfield City Schools is so proud and grateful for his work in our school community. We look forward to further celebrating Mr. Paydo's accomplishments at the OMLA State Conference this November. #startwithyes#mychoicemayfield
FIRST PITCH
In a true "Start With Yes" moment, Mayfield Middle School 7th grader Camilla D. will take to the mound at the April 18 Cleveland Guardians game to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Progressive Field!
Camilla earned this incredible opportunity after finishing in the Top 5 nationwide in the MLB Pitch, Hit & Run Competition and competing at the MLB World Series last fall.
We are so proud of Camilla for representing Mayfield on such a big stage with her talent, confidence and excellence. Way to go, Camilla! Your Mayfield family is really proud of you! #startwithyes#mychoicemayfield
CINDERELLA: Don't miss the magic! Final Weekend
Mayfield High School Vocal Music Boosters is bringing the classic musical Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella to the stage. Tickets are available online, so be sure to grab yours before they sell out!
This beloved musical tells the timeless story of Cinderella, a kind young woman who dreams of a better life and finds hope with a little help from her Fairy Godmother. The show features memorable songs like “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible,” and “Ten Minutes Ago.
FINAL WEEKEND:
Friday, 4/17 @ 7pm
Saturday, 4/18 @ 7pm
Sunday, 4/19 @ 2pm
Why you should go
Amazing student performers
Live musical numbers and choreography
Fun for families, friends, and the whole community
Tickets will also be available at the door starting one hour prior to showtime
We accept cash and credit card at the door.
Auditorium doors will open 30 minutes prior to the start of the performance.
All tickets are General Seating - No Assigned Seats
MAYFIELD FINE ARTS SHOWCASE
VIBE & VISION: April 25-26 @ MHS
SAVE THE DATES
Join us as we celebrate the incredible creativity and talent of our K–12 student artists and musicians at the Mayfield Fine Arts Showcase, “Vibe & Vision” April 25 - Noon-6 p.m. & April 26 - 1-6 p.m.
This special event will highlight the remarkable work of our students and the dedication of the teachers and directors who inspire them every day. From visual art to musical performances, the showcase reflects the passion, imagination, and hard work happening across our schools.
Mark your calendars and come experience the vibrant spirit of the arts in Mayfield.
We can’t wait to celebrate the vibe, the vision, and the extraordinary talent of our students together as a community.
FULL CIRCLE MOMENT
Learn and Earn students serve as guest judges
Over Spring Break, our Learn & Earn Home Builders students stepped into a new role at the Build Trades Exhibit at the IX Center—serving as guest judges for the Building Block Contest!
This event, powered by the Home Builders Association of Greater Cleveland and their Build Trades Program, is all about sparking curiosity in young minds and helping kids start exploring future career paths in the skilled trades.
And here’s what makes it special…
The very organization that once invested in our students—through hands-on training, mentorship, industry credentials, and even tools—welcomed them back as leaders.
From learners to leaders
From participants to judges
From being inspired to inspiring others
Our Mayfield High students didn’t just show up—they gave back. They encouraged creativity, asked thoughtful questions, and helped young builders see what’s possible.
This is what workforce development is all about: building skills, building confidence, and ultimately…building community.
CENTER ELEMENTARY HONORS
Congratulations to our CENTER Elementary students and staff who were honored at the regular Board of Education meeting March 18, 2026.
Center students: Darsh G., Jennisa M., & Peyton L.
Center staff: Carli McManus & Katie Boeshart, Interventionists, and Maureen McReynolds, Paraprofessional
around the district
CLASS OF 2039 WILDCATS
Kindergarten Registration for the 2026-2027 school year is open!
Under House Bill 114, signed in December 2025, children must be five years old by the first day of school to enroll in Kindergarten.
For the 2026–2027 school year, this means turning 5 years old on or before August 20, 2026.
At Mayfield, we believe every child deserves a strong start. Through Cubs Club and our partnership with Footsteps2Brilliance, we empower families and prepare young children in our community with the tools, skills, and confidence to thrive in Kindergarten and beyond. Together, we’re building the foundation for lifelong learning, for every child, every day - the Mayfield Way.
Research shows that regular attendance is one of the key factors in a child’s academic success. When students miss school, they miss valuable instruction, collaboration with peers, and learning experiences that simply cannot be replicated outside the classroom.
In the state of Ohio, a student is considered chronically absent if they miss 10% or more of the school year—for any reason, whether absences are excused or unexcused. It’s important to remember that absences are measured in minutes, not just days, so even partial-day absences can add up quickly.
To put this in perspective:
Missing just 10% of the school year — about 2 days each month — adds up to nearly a month of lost learning.
Students who miss 10% or more of school (around 18 days a year) lose the equivalent of almost 4 weeks of instruction.
Even a few absences each month can quickly add up — a student absent 2 days a month misses over 120 hours of class time in a year.
10% absenteeism = 1 month of lost instruction; 20% absenteeism = 2 months of lost instruction.
We understand that absences are sometimes unavoidable, such as when a child is ill. However, whenever possible, we encourage families to schedule doctor’s appointments, dental visits, and other commitments outside of school hours. Every minute in the classroom contributes to your child’s growth and success.
Our goal is to partner with families to support consistent attendance and address any barriers that may arise. Beginning this quarter, families will receive a weekly notification each Friday showing their child’s total number of absences for the school year, along with their attendance percentage as it relates to chronic absenteeism.
If you need any support for your child, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s counselor, principal, or classroom teacher. We are here to help and want to work together to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Thank you for your ongoing partnership and commitment to helping every student thrive.
Together, we can make every day of learning count.
COMMUNITY COMMUNICATIONS
We want to communicate with ALL of our residents!
STAY CONNECTED: Sign up for Mayfield City Schools Communications - Community Members without students
At Mayfield City Schools, our stakeholders include you – our residents of Gates Mills , Mayfield Village, Mayfield Heights, Highland Heights.
As part of our ongoing community outreach and engagement, we would like to invite community members without students to sign up through our Parent Square platform to receive communications from Mayfield City Schools, including Your Mayfield Schools newsletter, Quality Profile, Mayfield Monthly, and district events.
Click the link below to join our Community Communications.
At Mayfield City Schools, our mission—Every Student. Every Day.—is more than a statement. It's a daily promise. It's the heartbeat of our classrooms, our hallways, and our Wildcat community. One powerful belief that brings this mission to life is the mindset of “Start with Yes.”
This belief fuels the way we approach teaching, learning, and growing together. It’s about choosing to see potential before obstacles, and it aligns perfectly with who we are and who we aspire to be: creative thinkers, courageous learners, and collaborative leaders.
