The Shaker Heights Middle School Robotics students have embarked on another design-thinking activity while preparing for the robotics state-level competition. The augmented reality (AR) project combines 3D visualization applications with a hands-on sandbox exhibit to teach earth science concepts. The AR sandbox allows students to create topography models by shaping real sand, which is then augmented in real time by an elevation color map, topographic contour lines and simulated water. The system teaches geographic, geologic and hydrologic concepts such as how to read a topography map, the meaning of contour lines, watersheds, catchment areas, levees, etc.

The students will use their problem-solving skills to build a computer, program the operating system of the computer and create a sandbox from scratch using the design cycle. The design team consists of the Middle School robotics members, the District technology team and Middle School design chair Dexter Lindsey.

Congratulations to SHHS seniors Lyle Yost and Chachi Gustafson! At the February 23 OHSAA Division I Swimming and Diving State Championships, Lyle became the first boys diving champion since 1961 to win back-to-back-to-back state titles and Chachi finished second in the 100-yard butterfly after an exciting outside-lane-come-from-behind swim! Excellent season, Lyle and Chachi, and way to finish off your careers as Raiders. Good luck to Lyle and Chachi next year, when they compete as Buckeyes on the Ohio State Men's Swimming and Diving team!

Dr. Erin Herbruck is a career Shaker educator who currently serves as the Director of Professional Learning and, just last month, was named Project Manager on the High School Principal Search. She has been with Shaker Heights Schools for 24 years -- 15 years as a Middle School teacher and the past nine in various central office roles. Later this spring, she will replace Dr. Lois Cavucci, Director of Human Resources, and will be part of a transition plan to merge the office of Professional Learning with Human Resources. 

When Dr. Herbruck isn't at work or spending time with her family, she devotes time to her passion for yoga as an instructor and daily practitioner.  Learn more about Dr. Herbruck.

Nearly 600 friends of Shaker Height Schools attended the 27th Annual A Night for the Red & White on Saturday March 2 at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown. Since 1992, this annual gala has raised more than $2.7 million for educational enrichment opportunities focusing on STEAM initiatives, arts, technology and health and fitness for all students of Shaker schools. 

This year's event featured Shaker resident Russ Mitchell of WKYC-TV, who served as emcee, a silent auction and student artwork and performances. A special presentation about the District's new i3  Initiative (Inquiry, Innovation and Imagination) raised more than $42,000 for the initiative during the evening! 

Learn more about the Shaker Schools Foundation.

Do you know of an illustrious Shaker Schools alumnus who deserves to be recognized for his or her contributions? Please consider making a nomination for the Class of 2019 Shaker Schools Alumni Hall of Fame. More than 275 Shaker Heights High School graduates have been inducted since its inception in 1986. These distinguished alumni represent excellence and achievement in all walks of life, including business, medicine, law, education, the fine and performing arts, government and public service, among other pursuits. View a complete list of inductees.

The 2019 festivities will include a Hall of Fame high school assembly the morning of Friday, October 11 and a dinner honoring the inductees on the evening of Saturday, October 12. Nominees must be available to attend on those dates.  To make a nomination, please complete the Nomination Form and submit by April 30, 2019.