student winners

Students from Chagrin Falls High School have achieved remarkable success in the global marketing arena, emerging as the grand prize winners in OverDrive's prestigious School Stars contest. Their innovative submission captivated the judges and earned them top honors among numerous entries from schools worldwide.

The winning team, consisting of Kazimierz Kanieski, Taein Kang, and Robert Mignogna, collaborated on their submission as part of a unit on library marketing co-taught by John Bakalar, business teacher, and Angie Jameson, library media specialist.

"I am excited to report that our high school marketing students have been recognized as the grand prize winners in this global marketing contest," said Jameson. “Chagrin Falls High School has placed in the Curricular Ties Category and have been recognized as an honorable mention in the past, but witnessing our students take the grand prize for the entire contest is incredible. Our marketing students have not only earned resources for our school, but they’ve also earned a great line on a professional resume.”

"Their achievement is a testament to their creativity, hard work, and the exceptional guidance provided by our dedicated teachers," said business teacher John Bakalar, Chagrin Falls High School.

As the grand prize winners, Chagrin Falls High School will receive $2,500 in digital books and audiobooks, 2,000 glitter Sora School Stars stickers, and a School Stars winner poster to proudly display within the school.

"We are incredibly proud of our students' accomplishments," said Principal Amanda Rassi. "Their success in this global competition showcases the exceptional talent and skills fostered within our school community. It is a remarkable achievement that will inspire and motivate their peers to pursue excellence in their endeavors."

Emily Balser, Integrated Marketing Specialist at OverDrive, expressed her excitement and congratulations to the winning team, stating, "Every year, it's amazing to see how our students are using Sora within their school communities. After submissions are received, the entire OverDrive company has the ability to vote for our winners, and Chagrin Falls Exempted Village Schools/High School emerged as the grand prize winner. Cue the confetti!"

The Chagrin Falls High School community celebrates this outstanding achievement and recognizes the dedication of the students, teachers, and administrators who have contributed to this remarkable success.