Preschoolers from James E. Biggs Class of 2023 got a look at their future yesterday as they took a tour of the elementary school where they will attend kindergarten. The students, along with their parents, visited key areas of the schools including the cafeteria, gym, playground, library and nurse's office. They also got a taste of kindergarten with a coloring activity, with assistance from current kindergarten students.

Kindergarten registration for the 2023-2024 school year is now open. If your child turns 5 before August 1, 2023, call the District Enrollment Office or register online at http://bit.ly/CIPSRegistration. You will receive a free backpack with supplies upon full completion of enrollment.

Today we spotlight Mr. Tim Roberts, one of our Special Education teachers and our school technology coordinator.

Today we spotlight, Ms. Dylicia McGee, our 4th grade Science Teacher.

The soccer team defeated the Sixth District - B squad last night.

Check out the following if you're interested in playing baseball!

Kindergarten registration for the 2023-2024 school year is now open!

Dear Parents/Guardians:  

We are writing to inform you of an unfortunate incident this week regarding fruit cups in our cafeterias. The district has pulled all fruit cups related to this matter from cafeterias after worm-like insects were discovered by students in four cups on Wednesday.  

Nearly 6,000 pre-packaged fruit cups were recently delivered to the school district from Tabatchnick Fine Foods, Inc. in Somerset, New Jersey. The district has filed a complaint with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, which will forward the complaint to the United States Department of Agriculture.  

Ms. Amberly Behrens, a first grade teacher, is our last Staff Spotlight for the week!

The Soccer season kicks off today!

Today's Staff Spotlight is Mr. Jonah Smith, our Physical Education teacher!

Today, our staff spotlight highlights Ms. Kloie Johnson, a 2nd grade teacher.

Students in Covington Schools do not have school on Thursday, March 9, or Friday, March 10. Staff must report to work as normal on Thursday for a Staff Equivalency Day. Enjoy your long weekend.

No school on Thursday March 8th and Friday March 9th.

Students were all smiles as they took to Meinken Field on Sunday for the 2023 Baseball Jamboree. Covington elementary students learned fundamental ball skills from Holmes baseball and softball players and coaches. The students took turns at different stations to work on hitting, fielding, throwing and base running. Ninety students attended the free event and took home a hat and wristbands provided by the Cincinnati Reds Community Fund. The perfect weather also allowed for a special visit by Mr. Red.

Covington Independent Public Schools will be closing early today, Friday, March 3, due to weather-related conditions. The governor has declared a state of emergency and has closed all government offices. Parents may begin picking up their children at 12:45. Walkers will be dismissed beginning at 12:45 and bus riders will be dismissed beginning at 1:30. If you should have questions, please call your child's school. 

All after-school programs and activities are canceled.

Dismissing early on March 3, 2023

New Staff Spotlight Feature

It's not too late to attend! NO registration is required!!

Congratulations to Rachel Blackwood, a Holmes Middle School science teacher, who was named a finalist for the Gold Star Chili Teacher Award.

Mrs. Blackwood was surprised yesterday, February 15, when representatives of Gold Star visited Holmes and announced that she was among the ten finalists selected from 800 nominations. Mrs. Blackwood was surrounded by students and staff when the announcement was made.

Happy National School Counselor's Week

The role of a school counselor is often overlooked, but these professionals play a vital role in the well-being and success of students. They provide a listening ear, guidance, and resources to help students overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. In Covington Schools, our counselors go above and beyond to make sure that our students receive the support they need to thrive. They offer individual counseling, manage students' schedules, and collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to ensure that every student has access to the resources they need.

It is Family Resource and Youth Service Center Appreciation week and we are grateful to have some of the very best in Covington Schools. These individuals go above and beyond to ensure our students and their families have the resources they need. Please join us in thanking our FRYSC team for all they do for our kids, families, and our community.

Denise Brown, Sixth District

Kionte Earley, Ninth District

Sarah Hunt, Glenn O. Swing

Abbie Gillespie, John G. Carlisle

Jennifer Rusconi, Latonia Elementary

Renata Watts, Holmes Middle School

Jarrett Spisak, Holmes High School

Stephanie Fieler, James E. Biggs

Holly Dickens, Holmes High School, Holmes Middle School, and Sixth District

Several girls at Ninth District Elementary School received their pearls last week as part of the Girls with Pearls program.

Girls with Pearls is a female empowerment program designed to foster leadership for girls, grades 4-6, and help them plan for a bright future through education, personal responsibility and social awareness. Each girl receives a strand of imitation pearls to proudly wear to outwardly identify her as a leader.

The PEARLS values are Purpose, Empowerment, Attitude, Responsibility, Leadership and Service.

Details on "They Have to Play Us" Bengals Spirit Week

At its organizational meeting this week the Covington Board of Education elected Tom Haggard as board chair and Stephen Gastright as board vice-chair. The following members will serve on the selected committees for 2023:

Budget Committee - Tom Haggard and Kareem Simpson

Covington Education Foundation Committee - Stephen Gastright and Tom Haggard

TEAM Foundation Committee - Kareem Simpson and Stephen Gastright

Calendar Committee - Hannah Edelen and Glenda Huff

Student Code of Conduct Committee - Hannah Edelen and Kareem Simpson

Local Planning Committee - Stephen Gastright and Tom Haggard

Covington Schools is proud to welcome Hannah Edelen and Kareem Simpson to the Covington Board of Education. Edelen and Simpson were sworn-in in December and will serve in their first meeting tonight, Wednesday, January 4. The meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. at 25 East Seventh Street in Covington.

Winter break is Wednesday, December 21, 2022, through Tuesday, January 3, 2023. Students return to school on Wednesday, January 4, 2023. Happy Holidays and have a safe and healthy break.

Holmes High School has an outstanding history of students who have made significant differences in their communities. The time has come to recognize and honor our alumni. The Covington Board of Education is seeking nominations for the Holmes Hall of Distinction and the Holmes Outstanding Young Alumnus Award.

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2023 Class Act Awards. Each year Covington Schools recognizes the “Class Acts” in our school system. These classified employees go beyond the call of duty. They change ordinary moments into memorable ones. They are self-motivated and lead by example. They demonstrate every day that they value the Covington community, students, and co-workers. These “Class Acts” know that others are counting on them, so they seldom miss work. They know that their contributions are important and truly stand out as exemplary staff members. They see each day as an opportunity to make a difference.

December 15, 2022 ~ Covington Independent Public Schools is in the process of developing a plan to identify district priority needs, strategically allocate resources, and monitor results to meet the needs of all students and close achievement gaps among identified subgroups.  We would like your feedback on the plan, called the Comprehensive District Improvement Plan (CDIP). 

When developed through a collaborative process involving multiple stakeholders and implemented with fidelity, the plan cultivates an environment that promotes student growth and achievement. That’s why we would love your feedback as a family, staff and community member of Covington Schools.  Your input is vital to our success.

Click below to review the Comprehensive District Improvement Plan (CDIP). 

CDIP English Version
CDIP Spanish Version

Click below to provide your input:

Feedback ~ English Form
Feedback ~ Spanish Form

The Covington Board of Education is looking for three Covington business or community leaders to serve on the district's facilities planning committee. The committee is charged with setting priorities and needs for facilities in the district. This committee will meet no more than 5 times between December 2022 and April 2023. At the first meeting, the committee will establish meeting times.

If you are interested in serving, please submit a letter of interest by November 22, 2022, to Ken Kippenbrock, 25 E. Seventh Street, Covington, Ky 41011.

Join us in honoring and thanking Mrs. Clemons, our ELL teacher for her service to our country!!

There is no school for students on Monday, November 7 and Tuesday, November 8. Monday is a Staff Equivalency Day and staff is to report to work as normal. Tuesday is Election Day and all schools and offices are closed. Enjoy your long weekend.

No Viking Zone on October 31st!!

Join us this Thursday!

Join us this Friday!

Save the Date!!!

Fall Break is this week. There is no school for students on Thursday, October 6, Friday, October 7, or Monday, October 10. We will see everyone back in school on Tuesday, October 11. Have a safe and healthy break.

Families, students and staff on the Holmes campus enjoy the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. Besides food and dance, community partners distributed useful information to families.

It's Homecoming Week 2022!

Holmes High School will celebrate Homecoming 2022 on Friday, September 30. Don't miss all the action beginning with the parade at 5 p.m. followed by the football game vs. Rowan County at 7:30, and the crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen at halftime.

The parade route will follow Eastern Avenue to Wallace, to Greenup, to 20th Street, to Madison Avenue, and return to campus.

Join us for an exciting day of events.

Come visit your child's classroom and see what they are doing and learning about in their class!

Don't miss a chance to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at Holmes High School. A fun-filled event including music, dancing, and arts and crafts will take place on Monday, September 26, 4-6 p.m. The event is being coordinated by the family resource offices of Holmes High School, Holmes Middle School, Ninth District Elementary, and Newport High School.

Happy National IT Professional Day to the best IT group in the business. We appreciate you, Jamarcus White, Rick Brock, Joe White, Jared Laney (not pictured), and Brian Baird (not pictured).

Tomorrow only, September 14th, Kindergarten dismissal will take place on the back playground, so that you can fill out a parent report form before signing out your child.

Join us to celebrate Grandparent's Day tomorrow!!

The Covington Independent Schools board of education lowered its property tax rate by 17% Thursday evening. But because of rising property assessments in the city, the district will see an increase in revenue to its general fund for teacher and staff salaries, updated technology and other student needs. 

Superintendent Alvin Garrison said the district's tax rate has not been this low since 2003. He recommended a tax rate of 89.5 cents, 18.6 cents less than last year’s property tax rate. But Covington’s finance director Annette Burtschy said not all property owners will see a tax decrease, since the rate is determined by the value assessment of individual homes. 

Covington Independent Public Schools is expected to lower its property tax rate.

Superintendent Alvin Garrison is recommending a tax rate of 89.5 cents, a reduction of 18.6 cents from last year’s rate of 108.1 cents on real property.

Viking Zone registration is now open!!

We are in the process of collecting survey information to develop our new strategic plan. Please use the QR code or link to complete the survey. https://forms.gle/xZ7dy8vS6gDM5FzQ8. The survey will close on September 9.

More than 700 Covington Independent Public Schools employees kicked off the school year at the Opening Day ceremonies at Holmes High School on Monday. Staff members heard from Superintendent Alvin Garrison, KEA representatives and guest speaker Larry Bell, a national presenter, author and educator working in the field of education for over 30 years.

Back to School Night is next Tuesday, August 16th!!!

School supplies for each grade are now available!

The Family Resource and Youth Services Coalition of Kentucky (FRYSCKy) encourages you to support the EKY flood relief and recovery effort.   

Check the schedule for your back-to-school events.

Looking for a place to work on and improve your basketball skills?  Check out these sessions from the City's Parks & Rec Department's Covington Basketball Club.

Register by July 31st, to be eligible to receive supplies the weekend of August 13-14.  

Covington Independent Schools has found the next leader of their Transformational Learning Center.

Sean Bohannon, a 26-year veteran of Covington Schools is replacing Lorie Duffy, who recently retired. Bohannon is a graduate of Holmes High School.

To better serve the students at our school, we would like your feedback. The input from this survey will help us best meet the needs of your student. Please fill out one for each of the schools your children attend. This form can be used multiple times. We appreciate your time, comments, and suggestions.

Congratulations to the Holmes High School Class of 2022 who graduated on Friday, June 3. Once a Bulldog, Always a Bulldog!

The Covington Education Foundation recognized some outstanding Holmes High School alumni on Wednesday evening at the Hall of Honors Dinner.

Dr. Kayla Kinker Suma, Class of 2007, and Georgetta Rice, Class of 2005, were recognized as Outstanding Young Alumni. William H. Blackburn, Class of 1965, Judge Steven Jaeger, Sr, Class of 1970, and Faith Tupman, Class of 1990, were inducted into the Holmes Hall of Distinction.

Bob Sanders, Class of 1965, was honored as the Person of the Year.

Congratulations!

There is still time to sign your child up for Camp Covington!!

The Covington Board of Education approved a 5 percent salary increase for all employees at its board meeting Thursday night. The salary increase takes effect July 1. 

HMS Summer Skills Competition

June 1^st and June 2^nd 9:30 am - 2:00 pm

Incoming 6^th , 7^th, 8^th grade students interested in showing off their athletic skills, competing and having fun.

Congratulations to Stacie Strotman, executive director of Covington Partners, who was honored with the 2022 Helen Carroll Champion of Education award.  

Schools and offices are CLOSED on Tuesday, May 17, for the primary election.

Congratulations to Lori Knochelmann, who received the Thomas More Service Award this past weekend. Lori is the Project Home Coordinator for Covington Schools, where she manages the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Program. She works with over 680 students and their families in the program, and partners with outside resources to assist families in crisis. Lori is a 2015 graduate of Thomas More University.

Congratulations to our 2022 Excellence in Education award winners.

Brian Moore, Holmes High School teacher, received a Golden Apple Award. The Golden Apple Award honors elementary, middle, and high school teachers in Northern Kentucky that are exceptional educators and respected leaders.

Do you know a child who will be 5 on or before August 1? If so, now is the time to register for kindergarten. Please visit the District Enrollment Center, 212 Lavassor Place, Covington, to register in person. To register online, click here and follow the steps described. Make sure you have the proper paperwork before you try to register. For questions, contact the District Enrollment Center at 859-292-5864.

Save the Date!!

Spring Break 2022 is April 11-15. School will resume on Monday, April 18. Enjoy your break.

Effective April 7, 2022, Covington Board of Education meetings will start at 5:30 p.m. instead of 5 p.m. Regular meetings will be held at 25 East 7^th Street, Covington, Kentucky, and streamed by video teleconferencing via our website www.covington.kyschools.us.

As part of an effort to attract diverse educators, Northern Kentucky University and Covington Independent Public Schools (CIPS) announced a new partnership offering a scholarship for students in the university’s master of arts in teaching (MAT) program.

NKU will contribute $10,000 towards the scholarship while CIPS will add $4,000. The total $14,000 is the approximate cost of the full MAT program.

Coming Saturday April 9th!!

The majority of Covington students who showed up for a one-day baseball camp on Sunday had never played the game and don’t own a baseball glove. But the Baseball Jamboree, created by Holmes High School teacher Jason Moore, changed that. After the cold weather postponed the event on Saturday, nearly 150 students in grades K-5 took to Meinken Field and learned some fundamentals of the game.

Attention registrants: Due to the weather, the Baseball Jamboree has been postponed to Sunday, March 20 at the same place and time.

Third-grade boys at Ninth District were given shirts and ties this week as part of the Guys with Ties program, teaching them the skills to be successful in society.

“I feel all grown up,” said one student as he proudly stood up straight sporting his new white shirt and black tie.

Reminder:  School is in session Friday, March 18. All students must report to school. 

At the Covington Independent Public Schools board meeting Thursday, Cognia, a nonprofit organization that accredits primary and secondary schools presented the findings of its newest accreditation report — and it was good news for the district.

Beginning, Monday, March 14, 2022, Covington Independent Public Schools students will no longer be required to wear masks on school buses.

Justin Crutchfield looked up and down as he slowly walked while dragging his index finger across the many books on the shelves in Jill Baird’s room at Ninth District Elementary School.

He stopped and pulled the book If you Give a Moose a Muffin.

“I want a book like this,” he said.

Students at Ninth District Elementary enjoyed a special visit from Covington board member Glenda Huff as part of the Read Across America celebration. National Read Across America Week was established to help get kids excited about reading. The week occurs each year during the birthday of beloved children’s book author Dr. Seuss.

Thank you Ms. Huff!

Citing a decline in the number of COVID-19 cases, Covington Independent Public Schools is changing its mask policy from mandatory to recommended.

The mask recommended policy becomes effective Monday, February 28, 2022. Students and staff can still wear masks if they prefer, but they are not required to. The Covington Board of Education approved the change at its board meeting Thursday night.

Join us every Wednesday evening in March for family nights on building healthy families.  

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2022 Class Act Awards. Each year Covington Schools recognizes the “Class Acts” in our school system. These classified employees go beyond the call of duty. They change ordinary moments into memorable ones. They are self-motivated and lead by example. They demonstrate every day that they value the Covington community, students, and co-workers. These “Class Acts” know that others are counting on them, so they seldom miss work. They know that their contributions are important and truly stand out as exemplary staff members. They see each day as an opportunity to make a difference.

As a tribute to Black History Month, Holmes High School invites you to attend Lincoln Grant Night, Friday, February 18. The Lady Bulldogs varsity team plays at 6 p.m. followed by the boys varsity at 7:30. Alumni from Lincoln Grant High School will be recognized between the two games along with our senior athletes. A reception will take place at 6 p.m. in the Hartman Room. If you attended Lincoln Grant High School, please contact Coach Brad Carr at brad.carr@covington.kyschools.us for more information.

It is National School Counselors' Week!
We are excited to recognize our school counselors for the incredible job they do supporting our students, families and schools.

The following athletic events involving Covington Independent Public Schools  have been canceled due to the inclement weather.

Covington Independent Public Schools is making changes to its schedule due to the upcoming winter weather and other events. Please make the following changes to your calendar:

 

Due to inclement weather, Covington Independent Public Schools will operate on a 2-hour delay today, Friday, January 28.

The top three classrooms in the Mayor's Holiday Reading Challenge were from the same school and the same grade level. First graders at Ninth District Elementary were rewarded on Wednesday with a special visit from the Covington Fire Department. The students in Ms. Childers', Ms. Zeis', and Ms. Marshall's classes got an up-close experience with some fire equipment and a fire truck. Ms. Childers' students also received happy meals from McDonald's for their first-place finish. Congratulations to all the students and teachers. Great job!

Kentucky has released new guidance for schools amid the omicron surge. The following is what it means for Covington Independent Public Schools:

As we return to in-person instruction, please continue to follow the district protocols outlined below:

Covington Independent Public Schools has made the decision to extend remote learning for another week.

We invite all current and former teachers, students, players, coaches and friends to join us as we honor a Holmes High School legend.

Friday, January 21, 2022 is Mr. Huhn Night as the Bulldogs take on the Camels of Campbell County. Mr. Huhn will be recognized between the JV and varsity games for his 50 years of dedication to Holmes High School scorekeeping and statistics.

Wear red and show your support for everyone's favorite math teacher and statistician.

At its organizational meeting last week, the Covington Board of Education selected Sarah Flerlage as the board chair and Jerry Avery as vice-chair. Flerlage, who has been on the board for three years, said "I'm excited about the challenge, and opportunity to continue to serve the Covington community in this new capacity. I look forward to teaming with Mr. Garrison, the leadership team, and our incredible board, to keep improving the lives and education of the children in our district."

Letter to families about our NTI plan for this coming week.

Greetings,

As you may know, the safety of our students and staff is a priority of Covington Independent Public Schools. Therefore, the district has decided to remain closed to in-person instruction next week due to the high number of COVID-19 related illness. Monday, January 10, 2022, will be a teacher/staff workday. Students will not report.  The district has opted to use NTI (non-traditional instruction, or remote learning) days Tuesday – Friday, January 11-14, 2022. Monday, January 17, 2022 is a holiday. As of now, students are expected to return to in-person classes on Tuesday, January 18.

A COVID-19 vaccination clinic will be held on Saturday, January 8 at Glenn O. Swing Elementary School, 501 W. 19th St., Covington, KY. This clinic is for children ages 5-11. Children may receive their first or second dose. Hours for the clinic are 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

The clinic originally scheduled at Ninth District Elementary School has been canceled. Students who have an appointment scheduled at Ninth District should report to Glenn O. Swing.

Greetings,

Covington Independent Public Schools has made the difficult decision to close schools Thursday and Friday, January 6 and 7, due to the high number of staff COVID-19 related illnesses.

We hope this time will allow our employees to get well and return to the important work of teaching and learning on Monday, January 10, 2022.

Thank you and see you Monday.

Alvin L. Garrison,
Superintendent

Greetings Parents/Caregivers,

Happy New Year! I hope all had a wonderful, restful holiday season with family and a few friends.

As we begin the second half of the school year, we want to remind everyone that the health, safety, and well-being of our school community remain our top priority. During this pandemic, our goal is to keep our children and employees safe and our schools open.

Covington Independent Public Schools is partnering with the Northern Kentucky Educational Services Cooperative to help the communities in Western Kentucky impacted by the tornadoes.

Students, friends, and community members who are ages 5-11 can get a Covid-19 vaccine at Glenn O. Swing or Ninth District Elementary School on Saturday, December 18.

Use the website or QR code below to register for the vaccine. Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is preferred.

Please note that the vaccine will only be given to children between the ages of 5-11. Adult vaccine doses will not be available.

Due to a water main break on campus, the Holmes vs. Newport boys' basketball games tonight have been canceled.

The Bulldog Battle for the Bone wrestling tournament scheduled for Saturday, December 3 has also been canceled.

We will let you know when these events are rescheduled.

Schools will be closed on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, November 24-26, 2021 for the Thanksgiving holiday. Schools will reopen on Monday, November 29. Have a safe and healthy holiday weekend!

Announcing the Mayor’s 2021 Holiday Reading Challenge

Sunday, November 21 – Friday, December 31, 2021

PreK – Grade 3 children using Footsteps2Brilliance & Clever Kids University

Children ages 5-11 can now get a COVID-19 vaccine. The Federal Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control have approved the emergency use of the Pfizer vaccine for 5-11 year olds. Children aged 12 and up are already eligible to receive the Pfizer vaccine.

Happy National School Psychology Week!

Thank you, Jill Baird, Julie Capeci, Shelby Montgomery, Susan Parsons, Teresa Rose, Kathy Alexander, Candace Bone, and Julie Stava, for all you do for our students. We appreciate you!

This is a reminder that all Covington schools are closed on Monday, November 1, and Tuesday, November 2. Staff members must report as normal on Monday. School will resume on Wednesday, November 3. Have a safe weekend!

Covington Superintendent Alvin Garrison is staying at the helm of Covington Independent Public Schools for at least another four years.

The Covington Board of Education approved a four-year contract extension for Garrison at its board meeting Thursday.

Congratulations to Covington Board of Education member, Tom Haggard, who was recognized Thursday, October 21, 2021, by the Cincinnati Business Courier as one of the region's young talent through its Forty Under 40 Award.

Several Cincinnati Bengal legends will join forces with local health officials on Oct. 16 in Covington to encourage Northern Kentuckians to protect themselves and those around them from COVID-19.

A free vaccination clinic at Holmes High School -- that will also include food, music and giveaways – will feature the chance for photographs and autographs with former star players Anthony Muñoz, Jim Breech, David Fulcher, Solomon Wilcots, Robert Jackson, and David Wilkins.

Last evening, the Covington Board of Education so graciously approved the amending of the district calendar by adding four teacher-planning days.

Miss Rumphius by Ms. Jennifer from the Kenton County Public Library.

Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters.

REMINDER:

Fall Break - Friday, October 8 and Monday, October 11

Join us as we celebrate #LightsOnAfterSchool throughout the month of October!

Since completing its energy savings project three years ago, Covington Independent Public Schools has saved over $818,000 in utility costs. The district’s project included: renovating building systems, converting its interior and exterior lights to LED high-efficiency lighting, and installing solar panels at two schools.

The Covington board of education voted unanimously Thursday to increase the daily rate of pay for substitute teachers in the school district.

Many districts are struggling to find substitute teachers, so Covington Independent Public Schools will now offer $200 per day, up from the previous daily rate of $135.

This is the 13th year for the Class Act Awards, where Covington Independent Public Schools recognizes classified employees who go beyond the call of duty. The Class Act awards were started because we have so many wonderful employees who often go unrecognized for the great work that they do. A committee determines the criteria for the award and selects the winners. Some of the criteria include being self-motivated, leading by example, demonstrating every day that they value the Covington community, students, and co-workers, and seeing each day as an opportunity to make a difference. The employees also must have good attitudes and good attendance.

September 15, 2021 - The Covington Board of Education approved the mask mandate for Covington Schools on August 12, 2021. The district will continue to require masks or face coverings for all students and staff while inside of district buildings and on all school and TANK buses. COVID-19 is still present in our community, and we must do what we can to keep our students and staff as healthy as possible. We will update you with any changes. Thank you for your cooperation. 

Registration for Viking Zone is open!!

At Holmes Middle School, one student said he could not concentrate while online, another worried that he would not pass to 8th grade as he failed many classes, while yet another did not want to come back in in-person classes.

When school starts this week, a team of teachers and counselors at Holmes will be on hand to help students navigate through the trauma they experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Covington Board of Education Thursday evening recognized members of the district’s health services team for their outstanding work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Get your COVID-19 vaccine on Thursday at Holmes High School. No appointment is necessary.

Parents, staff, students, and community members believe Covington Independent Public Schools should use COVID-19 funds to meet the needs and provide activities for a range of children in the district.

Scott Alter, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, said the district will do just that.

Summer is coming to an end and it's time for our Back to School events to begin.

Ninth District - August 3, 4 - 6 p.m.

Sixth District - August 10, 5 - 6:30 p.m.

Holmes Middle School - August 11 & 12, 4 - 6 p.m.

Latonia - August 12, 4 - 6 p.m.

Holmes High School - August 12, Grades 9 and 12, August 13, Grades 10 and 11, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

John G. Carlisle - August 16, 4 - 7 p.m.

Glenn O. Swing - August 17, 3 - 5 p.m.

TLC & Biggs Early Childhood Center, August Individual parent orientation meetings

Here is a chance to get your child vaccinated before school starts on August 19.

Wild Health will be administering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at Holmes High School in partnership with Team Kentucky. This vaccination clinic is for anyone ages 12 and older, including students, staff, and members of the community.

Covington Independent Public Schools looks forward to the start of the new school year on August 19, 2021. Team Covington is committed to in-person instruction, five days a week for the 2021-22 school year. The team developed this plan with our guiding principle at the forefront: The safety and well-being of our students, staff, families and community will always be our top priority. As we venture into another school year with COVID-19, we wanted to address some common questions and concerns regarding the upcoming school year. Please note: our reopening plan is a living document and is subject to change throughout the school year. We will update this document as needed.

Readifest is coming!!!

Covington Independent Public Schools has job openings for teachers, counselors, instructional assistants, bus drivers, monitors, nutrition assistants and more. 

Covington Superintendent Alvin L. Garrison delivered the keynote address Monday at Northern Kentucky University’s workshop entitled “Courageous Conversations: A One-Day Workshop on Diversity and Equity in Education

In collaboration with Wild Health, 43 people received the COVID-19 vaccine at Holmes High School today. Staff members, students, parents, community members, and even students from 4 other school districts came to Holmes to be vaccinated.

The next clinic is August 12 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Fieldhouse. Anyone 12 and older is welcome, by appointment or walk-in, regardless of needing the first or second dose. Look for more information in the coming weeks.

Holmes High School and Holmes Middle School are excited to announce the continuation of our online learning option for students in grades 6-12. Over the past two years, we have learned how to provide a quality education for our students virtually, and we are proud to offer this solution for students and families who learn better virtually.

Please see the information about the online program below along with the student profile to determine if this is the best learning environment for your student. If it is, please complete the application process.

Here is a chance to get your child vaccinated before school starts on August 19.

Wild Health will be administering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at Holmes High School in partnership with Team Kentucky. This vaccination clinic is for anyone ages 12 and older, including students, staff, and members of the community.

Lee Turner was named principal at Holmes Middle School, Covington Independent Public Schools announced Friday.

He previously worked in the district for seventeen years and is currently assistant principal at Scott High School in Taylor Mill, part of the Kenton County School District.

1,008 backpacks stuffed with new school supplies will be given away in drive-thru appointments August 14-15 at Be Concerned, 1100 Pike St., Covington. If more than 1,008 students sign up, winners will be chosen by random drawing in early August. Winners will be emailed or texted pick-up times for their kids’ backpacks the week of August 9.

Please note that parents will have to register this year for the backpack giveaway.

Holmes High School has an outstanding history of students who have made significant differences in their communities. The time has come to recognize and honor our alumni. The Covington Board of Education is seeking nominations for the Holmes Hall of Distinction and the Holmes Outstanding Young Alumnus Award.

Camp Covington is off to a great start!!!

Covington Independent Public Schools (CIPS) will apply for ESSER III funds by the application deadline of July 31, 2021. The purpose of these funds is to address the impact that COVID-19 has had and continues to have on elementary and secondary schools and students. The district is seeking input from its students, families, teachers and staff, administrators, other school-level leaders, and community members on how to spend these funds.

Please complete the survey below:

English version

Spanish version

Below are the pick-up and drop-off times for Camp Covington that starts tomorrow!

Congratulations to the Covington Independent Public Schools 2021 retirees! Enjoy your retirement.

Covington Independent Public Schools is doubling the amount it pays summer school teachers in an effort to keep them on board during an unusually crowded summer semester.

Holmes High School's Class of 2021 took a walk in the past today as they went back to where it all began. The seniors visited the district's elementary schools and were greeted with signs, cheering, and lots of hugs. Many happy tears were shed by students and teachers alike. At one stop the seniors were able to view their graduation video from back in the fifth grade.

Walk proudly Class of 2021!

To better serve the students of our school, we would like your feedback. The input from this survey will help us best meet the needs of your student. Please fill out one for each of the schools your children attend. This form can be used multiple times. We appreciate your time, comments and suggestions.

https://forms.gle/EVZ5VvTqBaxWjiAr5

Happy Nurses' Week to our school nurses!

Thank you for all you do to keep our students safe and healthy!

Travel the world with Camp Covington!  Camp Covington is a dynamic six-week summer program
that provides students access to academic support, fitness activities, and enrichment opportunities.
The FREE program is open to Covington Independent Public School Students Entering Grades K-5 in Fall 2021.

Covington Schools has the best employees. It has been a pleasure to treat our teachers and staff members with food, treats and gifts this week in observance of Teacher Appreciation Week.

Join us for a night of virtual cooking fun!

Covington Schools has received updated guidance from the Kentucky Department of Education and the state health department regarding wearing masks while outside

Covington now offers free Wi-Fi for students and their families in areas of these neighborhoods: Eastside, Helentown, Austinburg, Peaselburg, Levassor Park, Lewisburg, Latonia, and West Covington.

Covington Schools is proud to announce our 2021 Excellence in Education award winners:

Students at Ninth District Elementary School celebrated Earth Day in a big way.

Beginning the week of April 26, weekly meal bags can be picked up on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Meal pickup is will no longer be available on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays or Fridays.

Reminder: All students in all grades return to school on Monday, April 19. All Covington Virtual Academy students will remain in remote learning.

Covington City Schools Director of Community and Family Engagement Stacie Strotman says the district has 3,800 students.

The Covington Board of Education is accepting applications from families who are interested in having their children repeat this school year. Submitting an application is      not automatic approval as the board has until June 1 to decide to accept all or none of the the submitted applications.  

Meal pickups will not be available during Spring Break. Regular meal pickup times will resume on April 19.

I am pleased to announce that students in Covington Independent Public Schools will have the opportunity to attend school four days a week when they return from Spring Break.

Do you know a classified employee who goes beyond the call of duty? Then nominate him or her for the district’s Class Act Award. Covington Independent Public Schools is now accepting nominations for this award. The winners will be recognized during opening day in August 2021. The deadline for submission is April 30, 2021. For more information and nomination forms, go to https://www.covington.kyschools.us/Content2/1530.

Welcome Class of 2034. We can’t wait for you to start Kindergarten next fall. You can enroll Monday, March 29 – Friday, April 9 for the upcoming 2021-2022 school year one of two ways:

We'd like your input!!  Families who complete the survey will be entered into a drawing!!

There is no school or remote learning on Friday, March 19 due to a professional development day. Classes will resume on Monday, March 22 with Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 6th, and 12th graders attending in-person every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. All other Group A students continue to attend in-person on Mondays and Tuesdays and Group B students on Thursdays and Fridays.

Enjoy your long weekend!

Drive Thru Egging taking place on March 27th.

In our quest to get students back in our school buildings, Covington Independent Public Schools will begin a phased-in approach to return more children to in-person learning.  

Welcome Back!

Group B students were excited to see their teachers, friends and the sun as they returned to in-person instruction today, Thursday, February 25.

Covington Schools remains on a hybrid schedule. Group A students attend in-person instruction on Mondays and Tuesdays while Group B students attend on Thursdays and Fridays.

It's the first day of school, again. Schools welcomed back Group A students today, Monday, February 22. Group B students return to in-person instruction on Thursday, February 25.

Reminder:

Students return to school Monday, February 22.

Group A students attend in-person instruction on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Group B students attend in-person instruction on Thursdays and Fridays.

Victor the Viking has made his return to Ninth District!

Check out our video as we welcome students back to school on Monday, February 22.

https://youtu.be/RN384qRpnqw

As we return to our Hybrid model this coming Monday, February 22nd, here is a letter from Mrs. Ferguson.

As Covington Independent Public Schools prepares to return to in-person instruction on Monday, February, 22, we kindly ask that all staff, students, families, and community members continue to follow the best health practices as recommended by the Northern Kentucky Health Department.

I can truly say, I have missed seeing our wonderful students in Covington Independent Public Schools. The administration, board, teachers and staff look forward to having our students in classrooms on Monday, February 22, 2021 (weather permitting) as we return to in-person instruction under the “A/B” Hybrid Model.

All Covington Schools will remain on remote learning for Thursday, February 18 with no in-person instruction.

Meal pickup services will be offered, but due to inclement weather, transportation services will not be offered.

Meal pick up services will be offered Wednesday, February 17, but due to inclement weather, transportation services will not be offered, including meal deliveries to City Heights.

All Covington Schools students will remain on remote learning for Tuesday, February 16.

There will be no meal pickup or bus service due to inclement weather.

Happy Valentine's Day! Many Covington Schools employees received the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine today, February 14.

There is no school or remote learning on Monday, February 15 in observance of Presidents Day. Remote learning continues Tuesday thru Friday, February 16-19.

Students return to the A/B hybrid schedule on Monday, February 22.

The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce invites you to join us in recognizing the leaders making history in our region.

There is no school or remote learning on Friday, February 12 or Monday, February 15. Meal pickup is available on Friday only. Enjoy your long weekend.

Thirty years ago, Marilynn Arnold was a stay-at-home mom volunteering at the district’s preschool center where her four-year-old attended. During this time, the Kentucky General Assembly created the Family Resource Youth Services Centers as an integral part of the Kentucky Education Reform Act. A year later, Ms. Arnold decided to join the workforce and use her education and experience to help Covington families. 

Due to inclement weather, there will be no meal pickup or bus service on Thursday, February 11.

Students will remain on remote learning.

PLEASE NOTE:

Due to impending inclement weather, there will be no meal pickup or bus service on Wednesday, February 10, 2021.

Students will remain on remote learning.

All Covington Schools are on remote learning today, Tuesday, February 9. Due to inclement weather, there is no meal pickup or bus service.

In recognition of National School Counselors' Week, we honor the counselors for Covington Independent Public Schools. They are the best!

Shout out to Mrs. Fruchtenicht, our counselor!!

Do you have tax preparation questions?  Get them answered at this Virtual Tax Preparation Event.

There is free tax prep help that you can get and also ask any questions that you may have.

Dear Parents/Guardians/Staff: 

Covington Independent Public Schools will return to in-person instruction on February 22 operating on the “A/B” Hybrid Model. 

This means students who are assigned to the “A” rotation will attend school in person on Mondays and Tuesdays. Students assigned to the “B” rotation will attend school in person on Thursdays and Fridays. Students will continue to log in and complete assignments online on days in which they are not scheduled to attend in person.

All Covington Independent Public Schools will be on a virtual learning schedule today, Thursday, January 28. No bus services or in-person services will be offered. Families can still pick up meals between 8 - 11 a.m. at the high school and elementary schools only.

Congratulations to the winners of the Mayor's Winter Reading Challenge sponsored by Read Ready Covington.

Students in preschool thru third grade were challenged to use the apps Footsteps2Brilliance and Clever Kids University to improve their reading skills. The challenge took place November 16 - December 31, 2020 and was open to any student attending school in the city of Covington.

Superintendent Garrison and Covington Schools employees received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine on Sunday. Thank you St. Elizabeth Healthcare for making educators a priority.

In observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, all schools and offices are closed Monday, January 18.

Citing active COVID cases and the number of staff under quarantine, the Covington Board of Education in conjunction with Superintendent Alvin Garrison decided that all students would continue with virtual learning and not transition to the hybrid schedule at this time. During the board meeting Thursday, board members said they would further discuss return-to-school options when the board meets again on January 28.

To keep our staff and families informed, Covington Independent Public Schools has emailed or called the appropriate group each time a student or staff member tested positive for COVID-19. 

Long time board member Glenda Huff was selected as chair of the Covington Board of Education at its organizational meeting on Tuesday.

Holmes High School has created a YouTube channel to allow you to view a live-stream of sporting events. However, the channel must have 1,000 subscribers to make this happen. Please go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqADJHSkriIE2XWQQcnHNOA and subscribe to the channel.

Thanks for your support! Go Bulldogs!

When the Covington Board of Education meets on January 5, two graduates of Holmes High School will attend their first official meeting as board members.

Remote Learning will resume on Monday, January 4 for all students.

Meal pickup will resume on January 4. Families can pick up meals 8 - 11 a.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays and 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Wednesdays at the high school and elementary schools only.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:  Call 859-392-1028 OR 859-655-5299

Covington Independent Public Schools is adjusting its schedule once again. With COVID-19 positive cases rising, the district has made the difficult decision for all students to remain on remote learning January 4-15, 2021. We are targeting the return to in-person instruction on January 19, 2021 if health conditions allow.

Viking Families, we invite you to join us for a yoga session.

Two members of the Covington Board of Education were recognized for their outstanding service at the board meeting Thursday evening.

Superintendent Alvin Garrison praised outgoing board members April Brockhoff and Tom Wherry for their years of dedication to the students of Covington.

K-2 families and students, you are invited for a virtual math game night!!

As we look to the second half of the school year beginning on January 4, 2021, we would like to start planning at the school and district level for hybrid in-person learners and full remote learners who enroll in the Covington Virtual Academy. Covington Independent Public Schools will offer again the option for students to be in person or fully remote. Below explains the options and how to apply for each. The deadline to fill out the application is Wednesday, December 16. 

Want to know more about challenging behaviors and how to better respond to them? Check out this virtual webinar that is taking place.  

This weekend, Ninth District Elementary School was notified that an individual in our school has recently tested positive for COVID-19.

All students in grades K-12 in Covington Independent Public Schools will soon have an I-pad or Chromebook to work on from home. The Covington Board of Education at its meeting on Thursday, November 19, approved the purchase of an additional 600 Chromebooks.

PARENTS PLEASE SELECT INSTRUCTIONAL OPTIONS FOR NEXT SEMESTER

This past Tuesday, our 5th grade students learned about implicit bias.

Covington Independent Public Schools is grateful for the support it has been receiving from community partners this school year - especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our partners have always been generous, but as needs have increased, so has the giving.

Signup for our virtual Viking Zone!

Second grade meets Covington Mayor, Mr. Joe Meyer!!

Since Covington Independent Public Schools are working remotely until January 4, 2021, snow days will not be granted. Students and staff will continue to work remotely in times of inclement weather.

During this season of Thanksgiving, I would like to take the time to give thanks and express my personal gratitude to the teachers and staff, volunteers, students and families of Covington Independent Public Schools. I am grateful to work in such a supportive community that deeply cares about our students.

Student meals will continue during remote instruction. However, next week, pickups will only take place on Monday, November 23, and Tuesday, November 24, from 8 - 11 a.m. due to the Thanksgiving holiday. These pickups will be at James E. Biggs and the elementary schools only.

Seventeen-year-old Gavriel Null knows classmates who are homeless.
 A mother with an infant has moved in with 17-year-old Kaylee McManama’s family because of hard times.
 Amir Rice, 18, sees the pain on students’ faces and recognizes the pressure.



Yesterday, November 17th, Ninth District Elementary School was notified that an individual in our school has recently tested positive for COVID-19.

Parents/Staff, please take a few moments to complete this survey regarding the Afterschool program. Your feedback means a lot to us.

https://forms.gle/pJWFKs7epzjpmcjf7

The Mayor's Winter Reading Challenge has kicked off!!

When Covington Independent Public Schools communicated with you a few days ago, we were hopeful of having our students return to in-person instruction. Unfortunately, this is not possible at this time. Covington Schools will continue with remote-only instruction until the end of winter break. We return on January 4, 2021.

Yesterday, Wednesday, November 11, Ninth District Elementary School was notified that an individual in our school has recently tested positive for COVID-19.

Covington Independent Public Schools will return to in-person instruction on Monday, November 16, 2020, for families who opted for the hybrid model. Families that selected the Covington Virtual Academy will continue with remote learning.

It’s said that reading supercharges the imagination. For Covington schoolchildren over the next few months, it could energize their piggybanks as well – in a big way.

During the two weeks that Covington Independent Public Schools students are on remote learning, families can pick up meals at their child's school 8 - 11 a.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Next week, we are celebrating Red Ribbon Week. See the flyer below on daily themes, and post your pictures using the hashtags or send them to your teacher via Dojo to share!!

Today, Tuesday, October 27, Ninth District Elementary School was notified that an individual in our school has recently tested positive for COVID-19.

In an effort to keep our families and community informed, Covington Independent Public Schools is publishing its COVID-related cases on a dashboard that can be accessed on the district website, www.covington.kyschools.us by clicking COVID dashboard. The dashboard will show the number of cases by each school.

Today, Monday, October 26, Ninth District Elementary School was notified that an individual in our school has recently tested positive for COVID-19.

This weekend, Ninth District Elementary School was notified that an individual in our school has recently tested positive for COVID-19.  

The city of Covington is smashing the digital divide by installing WiFi hotspots throughout its neighborhoods.

So far, 12 devices have been installed on the outside of various homes and buildings, including the Covington Fire Department.

Are you having a difficult time helping your child with remote learning? Be sure to attend the Digital Assistance Workshop at Holmes High School on Wednesday, October 14. Choose from two sessions, 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. For a virtual option, please contact the high school at 859-655-9545.

Schools will be closed for Fall Break on Friday, October 9, and Monday, October 12. Meals will not be available on these days. Regular meal service will resume on Tuesday, October 13.

Schools will close Friday, October 9 and Monday, October 12 for Fall Break. Students will not report to school in person or remotely on these days. Enjoy your days off.

Covington Schools will continue to feed students while in school or working remotely. Parents need to pick up meals once per week following the schedule below:

OrthoCincy and others delivered over 2,000 masks to Covington Schools this week as part of Kentucky First Lady Britainy Beshear’s “Coverings for Kids” initiative to bring in mask donations for each school district state-wide. 

September 21, 2020

Dear Parents/Guardians/Staff:

Covington Independent Public Schools will return to in-person learning on September 28, operating on the “A/B” Hybrid Model.

The after school program is going virtual.

Additional information can be found at the registration link HERE.

Already registered? Ready to begin your virtual program journey? Click HERE for the all-new virtual program site.

Covington Independent Public Schools will participate in Kentucky First Lady Britainy Beshear’s “Coverings for Kids” initiative to bring in mask donations for each school district state-wide. Covington is now collecting mask donations at Central Office.

Ninth District Families, do you need technology support?

In the era of coronavirus, schools have to make split-second decisions based on the latest information they're given.

At Covington Schools, they recognized a need. They have now found a solution.

Dear Families:

First and foremost thank you for your support, patience and understanding as we are starting the second week of school amid COVID-19. Last week, schools held orientation, passed out laptops, conducted testing and met new parents and students. This week, online learning begins.

Register your child now to be a part of the Viking Zone after school program.

The 2020-21 school year has started. Be sure to check out our Parents Resources page for information on helping your child during remote learning. Also, check out this useful link on logging in to our learning management systems.

Parent Resources

Learning Management Systems login information

Covington Schools begins school remotely on Tuesday, September 1. The district has posted its Return to School Roadmap that addresses school plans during the pandemic. Click here to view the roadmap.

Dear Families:

Covington Independent Public Schools’ Nutrition Services and Transportation departments will partner to deliver meals to our students while they are learning remotely. The deliveries will be made three days a week beginning Wednesday, September 9. To receive meals, parents/guardians must complete the Google form at the link below by September 4. By completing this form, you are opting to receive meal deliveries of breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack. We ask that families complete a form for each child that you are requesting meals for, even if the children reside in the same household.

Come show your support for the Bulldogs. Holmes High School varsity/JV cheerleading tryouts for grades 9 thru12 are Tuesday, September 1, and Thursday, September 3, from 3:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the gazebo. Students must attend both sessions. Please bring a copy of a current sports physical to be eligible to tryout.

Be ready for remote learning. Register to win a free computer.

For more information contact Jon Adkins at jadkins@hacov.org.

Covington Independent Public Schools will follow Gov. Andy Beshear’s recommendation to delay the start of in-person classes until September 28.

Please join us for packet pick-up for all incoming kindergarten and preschool students at the District Enrollment Center (212 Levassor Place). Packet pick up will be held on Tuesday, August 4 from 8 am to 12 pm, Wednesday, August 5 from 10 am to 2 pm. and Thursday, August 6 from 3 pm to 6 pm.

Children enrolling at the James E. Biggs Early Childhood Education Center will have options for attending the pre school this fall

Congratulations to our Excellence in Education award winners.

Dear Families:

For the past several months, Covington Independent Public Schools has been planning for the start of the 2020-21 school year. Because of COVID-19, we will begin school on September 1 in an unprecedented way that includes new health protocols, physical distancing and more. The Covington Board of Education approved the district’s reopening plan at its board meeting on July 23.

As Covington Independent Public Schools returns to some form of in-person instruction, we understand that not all families will want to send their children to school. Based on your feedback from our surveys this summer, we learned that approximately 30% of our families would choose a remote option for their children.

As the school year ended with remote learning and the focus turned to summer programming, two big questions emerged for Covington Independent Public Schools: How does the district provide a virtual summer program and will students attend after all the weeks of online learning?

The City of Covington and six partners are investing over $2.5 million in an aggressive push to demolish one of the biggest obstacles to economic opportunity for its families — the lack of ready and reliable internet access.

Covington Independent Public Schools Superintendent Alvin Garrison was appointed by Governor Andy Beshear as a member of the Kentucky Center for African-American Heritage.

Dear Kentucky Public School Families:

As discussions continue about reopening schools in the fall, I am sharing with you Kentucky’s Healthy at School guidance released Wednesday.

The Department for Public Health guidelines state that all students will be expected to wear a mask on buses and at school except for kindergartners and students with medical conditions that prevent them from wearing masks. Masks will be required when 6 feet of space can’t be maintained in classrooms and while moving through buildings. Schools will be asked to mark 6 feet in distance, much like what is occurring now in our stores, groceries and other businesses.

“We’re going to make sure that our families have confidence that the schools are safe and ready for students to return. We miss them.”

Camp Covington may not be in-person this year, but that doesn't mean the exciting, hands-on activities stop.

Watch the Holmes High School Class of 2020 graduate Friday at 7 p.m.

Help Ninth District choose a new mission statement.

Summer feeding program begins today, Monday, June 1, 4:30-5:30 p.m., John G. Carlisle Elementary School.

Covington Schools and community partners are working diligently to provide an alternative two-week virtual program.

As you may know, in-person kindergarten registration had to be canceled because of COVID-19.  However, we have several options to register your child for kindergarten and preschool. 

Reminder:

Friday, May 22 is the last day of student meal distribution.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Call 859-392-1028 or 859-655-5299

James E. Biggs Early Childhood Education Center is now accepting pre-registration information for the 2020-2021 school year. The free, half-day preschool program is for 3- and 4-year-olds who qualify based on screening results. Children who are 4 on or before August 1, 2020, may qualify based on family income. 

Today is Day 39 of Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI) Learning. For your child's assignments, please go to https://sites.google.com/covington.kyscho…/covingtonnti/home.

Deborah Winkler, media specialist at Holmes Middle School, was recently selected as the 2020 Kentucky Education Association’s Education Support Professional of the Year. This award is given annually to a KEA member who exhibits excellence in areas such as professional practice, member advocacy and association involvement and community engagement.

Today is Day 38 of Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI) Learning. For your child's assignments, please go to https://sites.google.com/covington.kyscho…/covingtonnti/home.

Today is Day 37 of Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI) Learning. For your child's assignments, please go to https://sites.google.com/covington.kyscho…/covingtonnti/home.

Dr. Janice Wilkerson, Assistant Superintendent for Covington Independent Public Schools, discussed COVID-19’s impact on public education and what the next few months look like for Covington’s schools with Judge/Executive Kris Knochelmann.  

Today is Day 36 of Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI) Learning. For your child's assignments, please go to https://sites.google.com/covington.kyscho…/covingtonnti/home.

Today is Day 35 of Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI) Learning. For your child's assignments, please go to https://sites.google.com/covington.kyscho…/covingtonnti/home.
 

A tribute to the 2020 class and our wonderful staff.

Covington Independent Public Schools appreciates our teachers and staff. Thank you for all you do.

The last day of school for students and the last day of NTI work is Friday, May 15. Nutrition Services will continue distribution of student meals on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays through Friday, May 22. 

Our porch parade scheduled for tomorrow has been postponed.

Congratulations to the winners of the 2020 Read Across Covington Mayor’s Challenge.

1st Prize: Owen Tobergta- James E. Biggs

2nd Prize: Cris Perez Tomas- Glenn O. Swing

3rd Prize: Alithea Gates – Sixth District

4th Prize: Micah Lewis – John G. Carlisle

Beginning Wednesday, April 29, Covington Schools will distribute student meals and NTI packets at Rosedale Mobile Home Park in Latonia. Meals and packets will be available for pickup at the normal bus stop on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. For more information call 859-392-1028 or 859-655-5299.

Join us next week in our Virtual Spirit Week!!!

Help Ninth District in creating a school mission statement.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear on Monday told superintendents that K-12 schools would not reopen for in-person classes for the remainder of the 2019-2020 academic year.

At his daily news conference, Beshear said he knew the news was hard, especially for high school seniors.

Covington Independent Public Schools will be able to provide more help for families during the COVID-19 crisis, thanks to donations from Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Kentucky Medicaid.

A few items included in the student meals must be heated at home. Cooking instructions are included in the meal bag as well as here for your convenience.

Cooking Instructions

A message from Covington Superintendent Garrison:

Hello students, staff and teachers - welcome back.  I hope your Spring Break was restful and enjoyable.  We are now back in session – that means we are back to our NTI days – working on packets at home or online with our computers. We also will continue feeding our students at the school and community sites.

I must say that I am proud of the work that we are doing. This has been a learning experience for us all and we have come together to do what is best for our students and families.  Please keep up the good work at completing school assignments and staying safe.

1. Using an iPhone or Android go to Google.com.Type the word "lion" into the Google search bar and then hit search.

2. Scroll down to where it says "Meet a life-sized..." and press "View in 3D."

3. After accessing your camera, a few seconds later you have that animal in your house.

4. Take a photo with the animal and allow it to walk around.

5. Also try it with a tiger, cheetah, shark, hedgehog, duck, emperor penguin, wolf, angler fish, rottweiler, snakes, eagle, bear, alligator, horse, shetland pony, macaw, pug, turtle, cat, octopus, dog, and golden retriever.

Stay home and have some fun on spring break.

ART AND CULTURE

Take tours of famous museums, locales, and national parks.

https://artsandculture.google.com/explore

NATURE

Watch nature-themed streams that include

weather, domestic animals, safaris and ocean creatures.

https://explore.org/livecams

Thank you for working so hard on NTI the past two weeks. Spring Break is April 6-10.

Governor Andy Beshear today recommended that all Kentucky schools extend their closures until May 1. Once again, Covington Independent Public Schools will follow the governor's recommendation. 

A few items included in the student meals must be heated at home. Cooking instructions are included in the meal bag as well as here for your convenience.

Beginning March 30 - Pick up will happen ONLY on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at all sites and from 11:30-12:00, there will not be a morning pickup. 

 On Mondays, each child will receive 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches (4 meals).

 On Wednesdays, each child will receive 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches (4 meals)

 On Fridays, each child will receive 3 breakfasts and 3 lunches (6 meals)

For the fifth time, the alternative program of Covington Independent Public Schools is being recognized for its high quality educational services. The program has been designated an Alternative Program of Distinction by the Kentucky Department of Education.

Lunchtime brings a new kind of sound these days.

A Covington Independent Schools bus filled with something close to magic -- the magic of another meal rolling in.

Kim Kennett has four children in Covington Independent Schools.

Gov. Andy Beshear on Friday recommended that all schools in Kentucky extend their closure dates until at least April 20. Covington Independent Public Schools will follow his recommendation.

A Message to Viking families and students.

As schools across the area remain closed, districts are facing challenges making sure children continue learning.

Staff members at John G. Carlisle school in Covington are working to make sure kids get what they need during this uncertain time.

Please note, as scheduled on our school calendar, Friday, March 20 is a Schools Closed Day. No NTI assignments will be due, tomorrow March 20. 

Student meals will continue to be provided on Friday, March 20 at the same locations.

We will resume NTI assignments on Monday, March 23 for NTI day #5.

For information on student meal locations and times, visit our website at covington.kyschools.us. If you have any questions, you can email your child’s teacher, call your child’s school or call our Central Office at 859-392-1000.

During this vital time, please consider helping us meet the needs of our Most Valuable People: our children and families. There are three ways you can help:

1.) DONATE ITEMS AT DROP-OFF SITES
Mon.  | Tues. | Wed.
10 AM - 2 PM

Lakeside Christian Church
195 Buttermilk Pike | Lakeside Park, KY
859.577.7518

Latonia Baptist Church
3800 Church St. | Covington, KY
859.431.8004

Covington Partners
257 W. Pike St. | Covington, KY
859.392.3172

List of accepted items can be found on the Covington Partners Page.
Please note that only new items can be accepted and updates will be made to the list weekly.

2.) PURCHASE ITEMS FROM AMAZON WISHLIST
Purchase items from the wishlist on Amazon.
Items will be delivered directly to Covington Partners.

3.) MAKE A MONETARY DONATION
Make a monetary donation to Covington Partners. 
All donations will directly benefit our Most Valuable People through Operation: MVP.

For more information, please visit the Covington Partners Page.

Thank you!

It's great to see our students and to check on them as they pick up their meals. 

Remember, beginning tomorrow, Wednesday, March 18, an additional food distribution time of 7:30 – 8 a.m. is being added to accommodate numerous requests from working parents. This distribution will be at elementary schools only – NOT at the community sites.

Any child under the age of 19 can pick up a free breakfast and lunch Monday - Friday, 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the following locations:
All Covington Independent Public Elementary Covington Schools, Latonia Terrace Parking Lot, City Heights Parking Lot, Ninth Street Baptist Church, Southside Baptist Church, and St. John's Congregational Church.

Bagged meals can be picked up and taken from the site. Children cannot eat at the pick-up location.

Mayor Joe Meyer is offering children in PreK- 3^rd grade a reading challenge.

Using F2B/CKU, Covington kids will keep their learning on track, especially during the school shutdown timeframe and as part of the 2020 Read Across Covington Challenge

Top five students will receive monetary awards!
1^st place: $500.00   
2^nd place: $400.00
3^rd place: $300.00
4^nd place: $200.00
5^th place: $100.00

Click here for more information

Dear Parents:

As you may know, the governor of Kentucky Thursday recommended that all schools in the commonwealth cease in-person instruction for 10 days to help combat the spread of the coronavirus. Covington Schools will follow the governor’s recommendation. The district will close beginning Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 27. As of now, students will return to school on Monday, March 30.   

The governor of Kentucky today recommended that all schools in the commonwealth cease in-person classes for 10 days to help combat the spread of the coronavirus. Covington Schools will follow the governor’s recommendation. The district will close beginning Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 27.

In the event that schools close, we have prepared action plans to provide required grade-appropriate educational activities for students. 
 

Soccer tryouts are this Thursday!!

Next week is Dr. Seuss Week - Read Across America Week!!

The Northern Kentucky Health Department has released a fact sheet to help you prepare in the event the virus begins to spread.

Tim Roberts is the new technology guru at Ninth District.

Covington schools are on a normal schedule

Ninth District Elementary invites you to attend our World Culture Fair.  It takes place this Wednesday, January 29th, 2020 from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.  

The Holmes High School 2009 Boys Basketball State Champions were celebrated on Friday night. The team was recognized at halftime of the Holmes vs Scott basketball game. During the ceremony Covington Mayor Joe Meyer presented the team with a road sign. The sign will be placed near 5th and Philadelphia Streets in Covington.

Schools and offices are closed on Monday, January 20 in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Students and staff will return on Tuesday, January 21.

Members of the Covington Board of Education at their last meeting were treated to chocolate and cake in celebration of School Board Member Appreciation Month.

Help us celebrate the Holmes High School 2009 State Basketball Champions on Friday, January 17 during the Holmes vs. Scott basketball game at 7:30 p.m.

It's a RED OUT - The first 200 fans wearing a red shirt to the game will receive a FREE slice of pizza!

It's been more than 10 years since the 2009 Holmes High School basketball team went on a magical run that ended with a double overtime victory over Louisville Central to take home the trophy for the best high school team in the entire state of Kentucky.

To recognize and remember this remarkable feat, Covington Independent Public Schools will honor the championship squad on January 17, 2020 at the Holmes vs. Scott basketball game.

Northern Kentucky University partners with local schools to shine a light on barriers to education facing youth experiencing homelessness. The event, “An Evening of Hope,” takes place on Nov. 19, in Greaves Hall. 

Fee. Fi. Fo. Fum. We smell another wonderful fairytale brought to life by the students of Holmes Middle School's Community Learning Center.

Schools and offices will be closed on Tuesday, November 5 in observance of Election Day.

Schools and offices will be open as normal on Monday, November 4.

Dear Parents/Guardians,

As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we would like your feedback through a survey.  The survey results will help us to celebrate our strengths, and grow in areas of need.

Please take 10 minutes to complete this survey: 

http://bit.ly/NinthParentSurvey

Sincerely,

Eddy Bushelman

Principal, Ninth District Elementary

Please join us in celebrating our afterschool programs on Friday, October 18. All students, staff, and families are invited to stop by the Holmes High School gazebo before the football game. The event will offer trivia questions related to afterschool programs, prizes, and an opportunity to learn about teenage alcohol use. Everyone will be able to participate in a simulation activity using fatal vision goggles.

Covington Schools will be closed on Friday, October 11 and Monday, October 14. Have a safe and enjoyable extended weekend. School will resume on Tuesday, October 15.

For the eighth consecutive year, Covington Board of Education opted not to increase its property tax rate.

At its meeting earlier this month, the board voted to take the minimum compensating tax rate, instead of the allowable 4 percent tax increase.

Covington Independent Public Schools has opened its District Enrollment Center so that parents/guardians can register all their children at the same time and place.



You are cordially invited to the Covington Education Foundation’s Hall of Honors – an amazing event that combines the foundation’s Person of the Year and the Hall of Distinction honorees.

A reminder to all students and parents that Covington Independent Public Schools starts on Tuesday, September 3. We are excited to begin the 2019-20 school year.  

Free lunch is being provided for any child under the age of 18, Monday - Friday, August 19-30, at Latonia Elementary, Sixth District Elementary, Ninth District Elementary, Glenn O. Swing Elementary and John G. Carlisle Elementary. The hours for the lunch are 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Any questions, contact 859-392-1028.

Summer services are being extended in Covington due to the delay in the start of school.

Due to the change in the start of the school year, some Back to School events have been changed.  The schedule is as follows:

Holmes High School, August 7, 4-6 p.m.

As a result of several facility-related complications in our district, the start of school has been changed to Tuesday, September 3, 2019.
 

Thanks to our many supporters and employees who brought by school supplies for Covington students during the Chick-fil-A “Stuff the Bus” challenge on Monday, July 29.

Middle school students worked on projects that involved welding, plumbing, surveying, laser measuring and construction during the Rosie's Girls’ three week camp on the Holmes High School campus. 

The principal and assistant principal at Glenn O. Swing Elementary School are taking on greater leadership roles in Covington Independent Public Schools.

It is not too late to sign up and attend the next Born Learning Communities workshop, which will be held at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday July 9.

Covington students and families experiencing homelessness receive help to stay in school.
 

Covington Independent Public Schools will again participate in Chick-fil-A’s Stuff the Bus challenge to provide school supplies for  students

The Holmes High School 2019-20 volleyball season begins on July 15.

The Covington Education Foundation has named Polly Lusk Page, a longtime advocate for education, as the organization’s 2019 Person of the Year.

Covington Independent Public Schools is looking for talented people to join our team.

Covington Independent Public Schools is already reaping benefits from its energy savings project,

Mark your calendars as the Camp Covington Summer Program Begins June 17th!

Holmes High School has an outstanding history of students who have made significant differences in their communities. Time has come to recognize and honor our alumni.  The Covington Board of Education is seeking nominations for the Holmes Hall of Distinction and the Holmes Outstanding Young Alumnus Award.

First Grade Enjoys Trip to the Cincinnati Zoo

Ninth District students enjoy Field Day on their last day of school!

Kindergarten and 5th Grade Graduation Ceremonies are this week. 

First Graders Enjoy an Author Study!

Students Love Animal Charades!!

Great Day for the Ninth District Girls On the Run Team!! 

Soccer Season Ends With Heartbreaking Tournament Loss to Sixth District. 

National School Nurse Day is Wednesday, May 8, 2019. School nurses lead the way in advocating for the health needs of their students, as well as supporting education, by ensuring that students are safe, healthy & ready to learn. Let’s celebrate our Covington school nurses today and always!

Ninth District Student Wins Coloring Contest!!

Students Work on Recycling Project

Writing Through A Mask Activity Helps Students Use Personification in their Writing.

First Graders at Ninth District Elementary Create "Eggs" - travagant Descriptive Writing!

Don’t forget to get your shots and turn in your immunization records to your school by May 24.

Using Interactive Activities Helps First Graders With Their Writing!

Ninth District Elementary is hosting a Gardening and Cookout Event on Saturday, April 27th. 

Ninth District's Girls on the Run are having a coloring book/crayon drive for Cincinnati Children's Hospital. 

The Girls With Pearls Attend "Aladdin" at the Aronoff Center

Soccer Team's First Game Ends in a Tie -- Saturday, March 30 Game Postponed to Thursday, April 4

First Graders Working Hard on Writing Pieces

Preschoolers from James E. Biggs took a trip to visit the elementary school where they will attend kindergarten next year. The students and their parents participated in a current kindergarten class and toured the gym, cafeteria, and computer lab.

Ninth District Kindergarteners Are Superheroes in Disguise!!

Covington Independent Public Schools has set aside a special evening so that parents of incoming kindergarten children can meet principals and teachers, tour schools, ask questions and complete enrollment forms.


Ninth District's Soccer Team Kicks Off the Season With Their First Game Today!

Holmes High School has an outstanding history of students who have made significant differences in their communities. It honors its alumni with the Holmes Hall of Distinction and the Holmes Outstanding Young Alumnus awards.

Ninth District Elementary Students Enjoy Visit From Kathy Wade!

3rd Quarter Report Cards Go Home on Wednesday, March 20

Holmes Middle School CLC's presentation of Willy Wonka, Jr. has been rescheduled for March 19 at 6 p.m. in the Holmes High School auditorium. Please come out to see these students in this great performance. You don't want to miss it! 

Families at Ninth District Elementary enjoyed another wonderful family night event this past Wednesday!

All evening activities in Covington Independent Public Schools will be canceled today, March 14, due to the predicted weather.

Holmes students captivated the audience as they performed the musical, Willy Wonka, Jr., Tuesday afternoon

First Graders Use Their Measurement Skills Outdoors!

The Girls With Pearls Program at Ninth District Elementary Receives A Visit from Officer Davis and Tours UC's Campus

School will be in session on Friday, March 15 to make up for the snow day on Thursday, January 31.

Covington Independent Public Schools will be on a two hour delay today, Friday, March 8. Transportation will run two hours later.

Students at Ninth District enjoyed an all day Club Day last Friday! 

Ninth District Elementary will be hosting a "Night At The Museum" on Wednesday, March 13, 2019.   

Members of the Covington Board of Education and district administrators met on Saturday, March 2,  for a board retreat.

Join us as we watch students from the Holmes Middle School Community Learning Center after-school program turn dreams into gobstoppers on stage at Jack Moreland Auditorium. Directed by The Carnegie, students will light up the stage in a captivating adaptation of Roald Dahl's fantastical tale. There are two chances to witness the magic of Willy Wonka Jr.: Wednesday, March 13 at 3:30 p.m. and Thursday, March 14 at 6 p.m.. Both performances are free and open to the public.

Please note that the dates have been changed!

Dr. Seuss Week at Ninth District!!

Covington Police Officer Reads to First Grade Students!

Ninth District Celebrates Black History Month!

First grade students in Ms. Detzel's class perform contraction surgery!

Stay connected and download the Covington Independent Public Schools new app. Search "Covington Independent" in the App Store or Google Play Store. After downloading the FREE app, you can customize which schools you wish to follow.

Families Enjoy Red Carpet Night! 

Ninth District Students Honored at STAR Awards Day!

Another successful Club Day at Ninth District!!

Students from Ninth District Elementary help the community. 

Covington Independent Public Schools is excited to announce the release of the district’s new mobile app.

January is School Board Recognition Month, a time to celebrate and thank board members for the countless hours they spend working to provide the best possible education for our students. We most certainly appreciate members of the Covington Board of Education who not only serve as advocates for children but also for public schools.

The Girls On the Run 5K will be on Saturday, May 11, 2019. Registration forms are due by February 1st. 

Students Celebrate the 100th Day of School!!

Covington Independent Public Schools will be closed Wednesday, January 30, due to inclement weather.

I recently read the book, Our Kids: The American Dream in Crisis by Robert Putnam.   

The author of this New York Times bestseller follows his 1959 high school graduating class from Port Clinton, Ohio. He discovered his class as a whole was successful. However, the kids and grandkids of his classmates seemed to have less opportunity to improve on that success. Hard work and talent were not paying off. This opportunity gap reminded me Covington and our students in Covington Independent Public Schools.

Ninth District students now have access to MyON in the classroom.

Ninth District students sing at Lexus dealership in Covington

Red Carpet Family Night Event has been resceduled for Wednesday, February 6th. 

The Friday evening basketball game between Holmes High School and Covington Catholic High School has been canceled and will be played at a later date.

January is School Board Recognition Month, a time to celebrate and thank board members for the countless hours they spend working to provide the best possible education for our students. We most certainly appreciate members of the Covington Board of Education who not only serve as advocates for children but also for public schools.

Covington Independent Public Schools is always looking for substitute teachers to work in our system
 

Congratulations to Tatiana Phillips and Barbara Hill who were recognized during the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration on Monday afternoon,

With winter weather upon us, we would like to remind you how Covington Independent Public Schools makes decisions about school closings, delays, or early dismissals, and communicates weather-related announcements.  We always try to make weather-related decisions in a timely fashion.

January is School Board Recognition Month, a time to celebrate and thank board members for the countless hours they spend working to provide the best possible education for our students. We most certainly appreciate members of the Covington Board of Education who not only serve as advocates for children but also for public schools.

January is School Board Recognition Month, a time to celebrate and thank board members for the countless hours they spend working to provide the best possible education for our students. We most certainly appreciate members of the Covington Board of Education who not only serve as advocates for children but also for public schools.

Families enjoyed Holidays Around the World during a Family Night Event.

Students learn through extended enrichment opportunities. 

Thank you Officer Petri and the Covington police department for all you do to keep our students, staff, and schools safe! 

Today is National Law-Enforcement Appreciation Day. Take time to say thank you!

January is School Board Recognition Month, a time to celebrate and thank board members for the countless hours they spend working to provide the best possible education for our students. We most certainly appreciate members of the Covington Board of Education who not only serve as advocates for children but also for public schools.

Congratulations to Tom Wherry, who was elected chairman of the Covington Board of Education at a special meeting Thursday night. Glenda Huff was elected vice chair of the board.

Happy New Year. School resumes Thursday, January 3. 

Winter Break is December 20, 2018 - January 2, 2019.  School will resume on Thursday, January 3.

Holidays Around the World is This Tuesday, December 18th!

Miss Kentucky Visits Ninth District!

Students in Ms. Tedford's Room Learn How to Start Their Own Business

Ms. Troher's Kindergarten class is getting into the Holiday spirit!!

Cheerleaders from the five Covington elementary schools participated in the annual cheerleading competition on Saturday. Each team showed tremendous spirit and skill. Glenn O. Swing Elementary School finished in first place followed by John G. Carlisle Elementary School in second. Congratulations to all the cheerleaders involved!

Girls Basketball Team Wins in First Round of Tournament!! 

A big thank you to Toyota Boshoku America for donating 160 bags of food to Covington students. This yearly donation helps relieve a burden for some of our families during the Thanksgiving holiday.

Meet the Holmes High School basketball players, coaches and cheerleaders at Bulldog Madness on Thursday, November 15 at 7 p.m. in the Fieldhouse.

Ninth District will host its annual Vocabulary Parade on Wednesday, October 31st!!

The Covington Fire Department will conduct a Fire Safety Presentation at Ninth District Elementary School for each grade level on October 16 and 19.

Ninth District Elementary School is hosting Parent-Teacher Conferences, a Book Fair, and a Health and Fitness Fair on Thursday, October 25 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.  

Five former Holmes students will be recognized at Hall of Honors event from 6-9 p.m., October 10, at the Drees Pavilion.

Elizabethtown Inde­­pen­dent Schools recognized eight of its graduates, including Covington Superintendent Alvin Garrison,  Saturday night during its annual Tra­di­tion of  Excellence Alu­mni Awards ceremony. The honorees toured the school Friday and attended a pep rally as part of the festivities.

Covington Schools celebrated "High Attendance Day" yesterday with pajama and popcorn parties. The overall attendance rate for the district was 96.52 percent. Great job everyone.

The Kentucky Directors of Pupil Personnel has designated September 20 as “High Attendance Day” across the state of Kentucky.
Elementary, middle and high schools will compete for the highest percentage of attendance that day.   The school with the highest attendance rate will be awarded $500 from the state. 

Holmes High School's Homecoming 2018 is Friday, September 21.  The celebration will include a full day of fun with a pep rally, parade, tailgate party, football game, crowning ceremony, and a dance. 

A letter regarding enhanced school  safety in Covington Independent Public Schools was sent home with students last week. If you did not receive the letter, please click here to read a copy. 

Thank You.
 

Holmes High School graduate Garry Edmondson will be honored by the Covington Education Foundation as its 2018 “Person of the Year.”

The foundation raises funds and awards college scholarships to students at Holmes High School. It also provides program support for Covington Independent Public Schools.



The first day of school for students isThursday,  August 16, 2018.  Welcome back.  

The email system for Covington Independent Public Schools will be down beginning at 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 22 and ending on Monday, March 26. Parents will be unable to email district staff members during this time.

For more information, please call (859) 392-1000.

The Holmes Lady Bulldogs Varsity and JV basketball games scheduled for this evening, Tuesday, January 16, have been canceled.

Covington Schools will dismiss early on Friday, January 12 due to weather.

Walkers, drivers and pick-ups will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m. 

The below schedule is for bus riders: 

· Adult High School: 12:00
· TLC: 12:15 
· Holmes High School: 12:20
· Holmes Middle School: 12:45
· Elementary Schools: 1:15

All after school programs and activities are canceled. Holmes High School's boys basketball game at BB&T Arena is canceled.

Because weather can change quickly and forecasts aren't always certain, our district may be faced with early dismissal on Friday, January 12. As of now, the National Weather Service has posted a Winter Weather Advisory for our area for tomorrow. Snow is expected to begin falling in the afternoon.

Covington Independent Public Schools will be closed on Monday, January 8, due to inclement weather.

The results of the district Nutrition and Physical Activity Report will be discussed at the board meeting Thursday, December 14 at 6 p.m. at Latonia Elementary School.  The public is invited to join the discussion with any comments or suggestions.

Covington Independent Public Schools will be back in session Wednesday, August 23. Elementary school students should report to school before 8 a.m., middle school students 7:45 a.m., and high school students 8:10 a.m.

Let's make this the best school year yet in our district!

Due to the weather forecast that includes severe weather and potential flooding, all elementary soccer games are cancelled for April 29.

Ninth District Elementary School will be hosting a "Math Carnival" family night on Wednesday, January 25, 2017.  This family night will take place from 5:30-7:00 p.m.  Students and parents are invited to attend.  Come out for food, fun, and math games.  Permission slips are available here.

Each week during the winter season, Enquirer readers have the chance to vote on the top players of the week in basketball, swimming and diving, wrestling and bowling.  This week Holmes Lady Bulldog Jaynice Stovall is nominated.  Jaynice is a senior at Holmes High School and a member of the Lady Bulldog basketball team.  She recently scored her 1,000th career point and is helping lead the Lady Bulldogs to a second straight Ninth Region Championship.

Ballots come out early in the week and voting ends at 3 p.m. Fridays, with the results posted by 5 p.m. Vote for Jaynice!

Ninth District Elementary School will be hosting a "Holidays Around The World" family night on Thursday, December 15, 2016.  This family night will take place from 6-7:30 p.m.  Students and parents are invited to attend.  Come out for food, fun, and a tour of several countries.  You can sign up by clicking here.

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING

COVINGTON BOARD OF EDUCATION

Pursuant to KRS 160.270 the Covington Board of Education has been called to a special meeting by Mr. Alvin L. Garrison, Secretary to the Board, upon petition of Ms. Julie Geisen Scheper, Chairman of the Board.  The meeting will be held Wednesday, December 7, 2016, 5:30 p.m., at the Instructional Service Center, 212 Levassor Avenue, Covington, Kentucky  41014.  Should a request for accommodations due to physical disability be received, then such meeting will be conducted at another site in the Covington Independent Public School District at the above time and date or as soon thereafter as may be convenient.

December 5, 2016

Covington Board of Education 

Meeting Cancellation Notice

By Terry Boehmker
NKyTribune sports reporter

Tony Perkins considered retiring from coaching after his Holmes girls’ basketball team won the 9th Region championship and made it to the quarterfinals of the state tournament last March. He certainly wasn’t disappointed with the season, and he knew there would be a lot of talent returning for the Bulldogs. The veteran coach just wanted to make sure he could keep the program going in a positive direction before he signed up for another season.

Covington Police reported Tuesday that a suspicious person has been seen in the area of two local schools and may have attempted to abduct a child.

In a news release, the police department stated that the incidents were reported near Sixth District School in Austinburg and John G. Carlisle School downtown. One young victim reported that the suspicious person attempted to take her by the arm on the 1700 block of Maryland Avenue near Sixth District. 

The girl was able to kick the man and run away.

This morning, (Friday, September 30), a student from Covington Independent Public Schools falsely reported that she was attacked by a clown while on her way to school.  After being interviewed by district officials, the student admitted that she made up the story.
 

Because of the attention that this issue has generated, we would like to emphasize that there was no clown and no attack whatsoever. If you should have questions or concerns, please call central office, 859-392-1000.

Sincerely,
Alvin Garrison,
Superintendent
Covington Independent Public Schools 

While studies show that socioeconomic factors can have significant impact on a child’s vocabulary, and ultimately, their success in school, a whole new equalizer may well be found in the palm of a child’s hand.

Covington children are demonstrating that access to achievement can be found on a Smart phone and iPad.

In December 2015, Covington Independent Schools, along with help from generous members of the community, launched Footsteps2Brilliance, a free web-based literacy program app that is loaded with more than 1,000 children’s books, nursery rhymes, songs and educational games.

The program, which is available to children in preschool through the third grade and can be accessed on cell phones, computers, iPads and other mobile devices, is free to families in Covington with children in preschool through third grade.

Since Covington Independent Public Schools launched a free web based literacy program in December,  Covington children are reading and playing more games that help them improve their reading skills. 

Covington children have read 139,190 books for a total of 37,739,348 words. They have logged 9,836 hours on the community-wide initiative -   footsteps2brilliance.

The district, private and parochial schools and day care centers throughout the Covington community will celebrate the progress that children are making on the program when it meets today, September 21, at 5 p.m. at the Life Learning Center, 20 W. 18^th St., Covington.

Vote for Seth!

Holmes High School senior football player, Seth Hille, has been nominated for the Mercy Ortho/WCPO 9 On Your Side Player of the Week.

Former Covington Mayor Chuck Scheper says local businesses have a huge stake in the achievement growth of Covington Schools.

Scheper, an advocate for Covington Independent Schools (CIPS), will discuss the issue Thursday, September 15th when he moderates a discussion with Superintendent Alvin Garrison and Covington Partners Executive Director Stacie Strotman at the Covington Business Council monthly luncheon at the Madison Events Center.

Scheper says the latest state testing scores shows Covington Independent Schools boasts the highest rated elementary school in Kenton County in Glenn O. Swing Elementary

The Covington Board of Education voted unanimously to take the compensating rate, and not to increase its property tax rate by up to the 4 percent allowed without a public vote.

This is the fifth consecutive year that the Covington Independent Public School District has opted to take the compensating rate - which adjusts the tax rate to meet the increase in property value so as to collect close to the similar amount as the previous year - instead of the full 4 percent.

Board member Glenda Huff cited the district's implementation of an ongoing process of reviewing the budget, which she says has "netted great results".

“We have been diligent and responsible in making sure taxpayers’ money is well spent,’’ Huff said in a statement. “By adopting the compensating rate, we will actually lower the tax rates.’’

I am excited to share some great news with you!  Work will soon begin to bring major upgrades to the Holmes High School stadium. The track will be replaced, the football field is getting artificial turf and a new press box and scoreboard will be installed.

With this project in mind, we will not be able to host any home games this fall.  However, we still want you to come out and support the Bulldogs. Our first football game is tonight, Friday, August 19, 5:30 p.m., at Covington Catholic.

Thanking you in advance for your understanding.  Have a great school year.  Go Bulldogs!

Sincerely,

Stan Steidel,
Director of Athletics and Student Activities

We hope you enjoyed your time off during the summer break, but it's time for school again. The first day of school for students in Covington Independent Public Schools is tomorrow, Wednesday, August 17.  

Elementary schools begin at 8 a.m, Holmes Middle School starts at 7:45 a.m. and Holmes High School starts at 8:05 a.m.

Welcome back.

Covington Mayor Sherry Carran on Thursday proclaimed "Summer Learning Day,'' in the city after touring the Covington Summer Scholars Program at John G. Carlisle Elementary School.

Every elementary school in Covington Independent Public Schools hosts a five week Summer Scholars Program where students have fun learning about different countries and cultures while practicing reading skills and math facts. Summer learning programs, like Covington Summer Scholars, are proven to maintain and advance students’ academic and social growth, keep children safe and healthy during the summer, and send young people back to school ready to learn.

Kenton County Police Chief Col. Michael "Spike" Jones has been selected as the Covington Education Foundation’s 2016 Person of the Year.

The foundation, which awards college scholarships to students at Holmes High School and program support for Covington Independent Public Schools, will honor Jones at a luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesday, June 8, 2016 at the Dress Pavilion in Covington’s Devou Park.

Educators and students from Covington Independent Public Schools were among the those receiving awards during the 2016 Education in Excellence Celebration sponsored by the Northern Kentucky Education Council and the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.

Scott Alter, principal of Glenn O. Swing Elementary School, received the A.D. Albright Outstanding Administrator Leader Award. Alter was recognized for leading his school to academic success.  For the past two testing cycles, Glenn O. ranked in the 99^th percentile of all schools statewide. The school is Distinguished. Only three elementary schools in Northern Kentucky and 29 of the 720 elementary schools throughout the state posted higher scores than Glenn O. Swing in 2013-14.

Sherry Lindberg, who works as a teacher and assistant principal at Glenn O. Swing was honored with the Golden Apple award.. Ms. Lindberg teaches social studies.  For several years, students in her class have scored 100 percent on the social studies portion on the state test.
 

The Holmes Cross Country Team will be signing up 5th grade students who will be attending Holmes Middle School as 6th graders next school year (2016-2017).  Students that will be in grades 6-12 next school year and are interested in competing should sign-up. Sign-ups will be held on Holmes Campus, Thursday, May 12th at 3:15 p.m. between the field house and football field. 

Coach Joe Mueller
Coach Nicole Winkler
Cross Country Boys & Girls Coach
"To be successful on the field you must first be successful in the classroom"
http://www.covington.kyschools.us
Facebook (search): Holmes Cross Country

The March Madness Million Word Challenge at our elementary schools was a huge success. Between March 17- April 6, the children of Covington were exposed to 18,623,297 words which correlates to 4,008 hours, 31 minutes and 48 seconds of students being engaged in literacy activities.

School Winner: John G. Carlisle Word Total : 6,092,019 Usage: 1,034 hr 19 min 6 seconds

Covington Independent Public Schools announces its annual Kindergarten Registration event for the 2016-17 school year.  Registration will be open April 4 - 8 from 9 - 11 a.m. at all five elementary schools in the district.

An Evening of Kindergarten event will be held at each school on Wednesday, April 6 from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. to allow parents to learn about the kindergarten experience as well as the school your child will attend. A special presentation will begin at 5:30 p.m. Parents and children will be able to meet principals, teachers, and staff, tour the school, visit kindergarten classrooms, and ask questions.

Elementary schools in the Covington district include:
     Glenn O. Swing Elementary - 501 W. 19th Street
     John G. Carlisle Elementary - 910 Holman Avenue
     Sixth District Elementary - 1910 Maryland Avenue
     Latonia Elementary - 3901 Huntington Avenue
     Ninth District Elementary - 2800 Indiana Avenue

Students must be 5 years old by October 1, 2016 to be eligible for kindergarten.

To register your child please bring your child's birth certificate, social security card, immunization records, proof of residency, and a parent/guardian's driver's license.

For additional information, please contact Suzanne Thompson (859) 669-1105.

In honor of the Lady Bulldogs winning the Ninth Region Basketball Championship and earning a berth in the state Sweet 16 Tournament, we are declaring Wednesday, March 9, as Red and White Day in all of Covington Independent Public Schools. 

Students and staff are encouraged to wear the Holmes High School colors as we celebrate the Lady Bulldogs with an exciting sendoff.  The sendoff begins at 9:15 Wednesday morning as the team is greeted by the community and middle and high school students and staff.

Congratulations to the Covington Independent Pulic Schools elementary students who competed in the Governor's Cup competition. The winnners are:

Ninth District Elementary School is hosting an academic family night on February10,2016, from 4:30 to 6:45 p.m.  At this event, you will learn more about your child's testing needs, intervention strategies, and ways that you can help your child at home.  

Covington Independent Public Schools, with the help of generous members of our community, is providing FREE unlimited access to the program, Footsteps2Brilliance, to every child who lives in Covington or attends a preschool or school in the city. The program is designed to help Covington children to become proficient readers by third grade. 

The district launched the city-wide initiative in December at the Life Learning Center in Covington with parents, school and city officials, students from Covington public and parochial schools, day care centers and preschools.
 
The web-based platform accelerates learning through more than 1,000 interactive books, games, and songs, and is available any time of day, every day, to maximize learning opportunities.  It is designed for children pre-K through third grade.

For the fourth year in a row, the Covington Board of Education has decided not to increase its property tax rate.  At its meeting Wednesday night, the board voted 5-0 to take the minimum compensating tax instead of an allowable 4 percent increase. 

Superintendent Alvin Garrison credited board leadership with not having to increase the tax rate. He said the district's budget committee, which includes two board members, the district's finance director and other district personnel, meets throughout the year to review the budget - looking at spending patterns and ways to reduce costs. 

Teachers and coaches at St. Bernard-Elmwood Place High School in the Greater Cincinnati area influenced Eddy Bushelman to become an educator. “They pushed me to reach new heights -- to be a better player, student and person,’’ Bushelman said. “The positive impact that these coaches and teachers had on my life created a desire for me to do the same as an adult.’’ Bushelman, who has been teaching, leading schools and coaching for 15 years, has not lost the desire to help students to become better. Bushelman is the new principal of Ninth District Elementary School. 

Thanks to everyone who contributed pencils, papers, glue, binders and other school supplies during Chick Fil-A’s Stuff the Bus challenge yesterday. Covington and other river city school districts will share the nearly 7,000 items collected at the Chick-Fil-A Newport Pavilion.

Reminder: The Chick-fil-A’s Stuff the Bus challenge is today, Tuesday, July 31. Please join Covington Schools from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. by bringing school supplies to the Chick-fil-A in Newport.  We will are part of the river city school districts.  

Holmes High School has an outstanding history of students who have made significant differences in their communities. Time has come to recognize and honor our alumni.  The Covington Board of Education is seeking nominations for the Holmes Hall of Distinction and the Holmes Outstanding Young Alumnus Award.

Covington Independent Public Schools will participate in Chick-fil-A’s Stuff the Bus challenge this year. Please join us on Tuesday, July 31, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. to help fill our bus with school supplies at the Chick-fil-A in Newport.  We will be part of the river city school districts.  Stop by with three or more items and receive a FREE Chick-fil-A sandwich.  All proceeds go to students.  In addition, the school district that collects the most supplies will win a monetary donation.  Please come and help Covington stuff the bus.


 

Congratulations to Covington Superintendent Alvin Garrison who will serve as president of the Northern Kentucky Cooperative for Educational Services for the 2018-19 school year. Garrison, who is beginning his sixth year as Covington’s superintendent, said he is thankful for the trust that his fellow superintendents have placed in him.

Rosie’s Girls® is a unique summer program for 11-13-year-old girls designed to introduce girls to STEM-related careers and build self-esteem, physical confidence, interpersonal cooperation and leadership through learning and applying basic skills in carpentry and other technical trades.

Covington Independent Public Schools was made aware of a threat to Holmes High School this morning. Covington police were notified immediately. We cooperated with police throughout the day. This evening police made an arrest in the matter. A juvenile has been charged with terroristic threatening. We are thankful for the quick work of our police department as school safety is our priority. Have a good evening and we will see everyone at school tomorrow.

Covington Independent Public Schools is proud to collaborate with Covington Partners this summer to host multiple summer learning opportunities for students of all ages at school sites throughout the district.  The summer fun begins this week. Free breakfast and lunch ill also be provided. 

The Holmes High School Class of 2018 spent some time on the last day of school visiting their past and encouraging future Bulldogs. The students took one last walk through the halls of the district's five elementary schools and Holmes Middle School. The Class of 2018 will graduate on Friday, June 8.

Third graders in Karissa Pickens’ classroom at Glenn O. Swing Elementary are reading an article about the flu — how to avoid it, or, should a scratchy throat or bleary eyes strike, how to respond to the symptoms. Graphs and tables accompany the piece, and they are the point of the morning’s review.

Congratulations to Donna Chuhran on being awarded a 2018 Golden Apple Award. Ms. Chuhran is a Special Education teacher at Glenn O. Swing Elementary School.

Due to continued construction work and uncertainty of road conditions in the City Heights area, beginning Wednesday, January 3, 2018, the Transportation Department of Covington Schools will use the following schedule.

The Covington Board of Education approved the district's plan to make up the days we missed due to inclement weather. 

Covington Schools closed January 5, 8, 16 and February 7, 2018 due to inclement weather.

Make up days are Friday, March 16, Friday, June 1, Monday, June 4 and Tuesday June 5.

June 5, 2018 will be the last attendance day for students.

Students will not make up the two missed days due to high teacher absenteeism.

We most certainly appreciate your understanding our efforts to ensure students are in school for the full calendar year. Should you have questions, please contact your child’s school. For changes or important dates, please visit our website at covington.kyschools.us.

With the collaborative efforts of Covington Partners, district educators, and members of National Honor Society and Bulldogs GIVE Back at Holmes High School, a free brown bag lunch will be provided to our students and families on Monday, April 2, 2018. Students and families can stop by the Holmes High School cafeteria between 11:30 AM-12:30 PM on Monday, April 2 to receive the lunch.

 All Covington Schools will close Tuesday, April 3  due to high teacher absenteeism and lack of substitute coverage. 

Covington Independent Public Schools was awarded $1.165 million in grants from the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program.

Dear Families: 

Please be advised that Covington Independent Public Schools has made changes to its academic calendar for this school year to make up for time missed due to inclement weather.

All schools in Covington Independent are working concertedly to tackle poverty in education.

It’s hard to argue that poverty does not adversely affect education. Would you agree that a child who has the burden of worrying about where she is going to receive her next meal, or a child who doesn’t know where he is going to sleep that night, may have increased difficulty learning their ABCs?

The Holmes Middle School Drama Club witll present "The Little Mermaid Jr." on March 14 and 15 at 6 p.m. in the Holmes High School auditorium. Admission is FREE so bring your family and friends for a splashing good time.

The first day of school for students in Covington Independent Public Schools is August 23.  Schools are hosting Back-to-School events for students/parents/guardians to meet teachers, principals and administrators, tour schools, learn requirements and expectations and to make sure all paperwork is completed so students can start school the first day.

 

Beginning July 1, 2018, all students in kindergarten through grade twelve must have two doses of Hepatitis A vaccine. Additionally, all students age 16 years or older must have two doses of Meningococcal ACWY. These are new requirements in Kentucky's law.

The Holmes High School Golf Team is looking for members. Team is open to Covington Independent Public School students in grades 6-12. This is an excellent opportunity for your son or daughter to learn and play golf. 

All golfers, beginners and advanced, are welcome to participate.  Clubs will be provided and there is no charge for playing. 

A self-defense seminar will be held on Wednesday, March 7, 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Holmes High School Fieldhouse. 

Family Resource and Youth Services Centers coordinators and advocates from Covington Schools presented today, Tuesday, July 18, 2017, during the statewide conference entitled “Victory Over Violence.”   The conference, sponsored the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, was held at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Covington. 

Playing off the theme “More than a Caterer,” Covington FRYCs discussed ways they engage staff, use resources, initiatives and volunteers to help families and students to be successful and to overcome barriers.  Congratulations and thanks for representing Covington well – Shelly Duncan, Holmes High School; Renata Watts, Holmes Middle; Denise Brown, Sixth District; Kerry McHugh, John G; Marilynn Arnold, Ninth District; Marshelle Blackwell, Latonia;  Stephanie Fieler, Biggs; Holly Dickens Sixth District & Holmes Campus, Wanda Hoeter, Biggs, and Sarah Hunt, Glenn O. Swing.
 

February 20, 2018

Dear families,

As we continue to think about the schools and families affected by the tragedies in Parkland, Fla. and in Marshall County, we most certainly understand that these events can cause anxiety among our students, parents and staff members.  

The Covington Board of Education is extremely proud to announce the opening of the new Holmes High School Stadium.  We would like to invite you and the entire Covington community to join us as we celebrate the opening of the upgraded stadium at 7 p.m., on August 24.

The celebration will continue on August 25 at 7 p.m. with the Bulldogs playing their first football game at the new stadium and on August 26 with the first soccer games on the field starting at 7 p.m. p.m.

It’s been nearly a year since work began on the athletic complex that now includes artificial turf, a new press box, a new track surface and new fencing.

In Covington, we believe that facilities such as this new stadium have a place in education.  Facilities like this play a role in keeping our students engaged and active in the classroom and on the field.  Actually, this upgraded facility does much more than that.  It sends a message that our students and community are worth it.

We are so proud of the new stadium.  Please, come and celebrate with us.


Sincerely,




Alvin Garrison
Superintendent
Covington Independent Public Schools


 

It's been 25 years since the first Holmes girls' basketball team went to the state tournament. The 1993 Lady Bulldogs will be honored during halftime of the varsity game on Tuesday, February 6 when the current Lady Bulldogs take on the Highlands Bluebirds. 

Come out and support the Lady Bulldogs of 2018 and 1993! The JV game will start at 6 p.m. followed by the varsity game at 7:30.

Covington Partners, in partnership with the National Summer Learning Association (NSLA), highlighted the importance of summer learning opportunities at a Summer Success Tour last week.

Led by the National Summer Learning Association (NSLA), National Summer Learning Day is an advocacy day aimed at elevating the importance of keeping all kids learning, healthy and safe during the summer.

On this day each year, the country unites in advocacy efforts and celebrations hosted by hundreds of partner organizations from libraries to parks and recreation centers and civic and non-profit groups – all to promote awareness of the importance of keeping kids healthy and engaged during the summer. This year’s goal was to reach two million youth.
 
Community and business leaders joined Covington Partners and Covington Independent Public Schools for a Summer Success Tour on Thursday.

Sign up now for the Lady Bulldog Summer Basketball Camp.

January is School Board Member Recognition Month. Here in Covington we appreciate our school board members. Thank you for all you do for the children of Covington.

If you see a school board member, take a minute to give your thanks.

The alternative program of Covington Independent Public Schools was recognized by the Kentucky Department of Education as an Alternative Program of Distinction.

The program was among 11 recognized at the board meeting of the Kentucky Board of Education last month.

Covington Alternative Program include the Transformational Learning Center, Computer Based Learning, Children’s Home of Northern Kentucky Classes, Youth Build, Work Force, Covington Adult High School, Covington’s Alternative to Suspension (CATS), Substance Use Disorder Program and Graduation Track.

 

It's still time to get your foursome ready for the 18th annual Tom Ellis Golf Classic sponsored by the TEAM Foundation.  The outing will take place at Twin Oaks Golf Course starting at 8 a.m. on August 5, 2017.

Cost is $90 per golfer.  Proceeds will benefit Holmes HIgh School athletics. 

Should you have questions, please contact Ray Murphy, 859 431-5250.     

April Brockhoff is the new chairperson of the Covington Board of Education. During a special board meeting last week, the board voted 5-0 for Mrs. Brockhoff to lead the group. The board also selected board member, Tom Wherry, to serve as vice chair.

The Latino Youth Leadership Summit will be held June 5-9 at Gateway Community and Technical College in Covington. The week is a joint effort between 21^st Century and the HHS EL department. Approximately 16 Covington students will participate.

The mornings will consist of additional instruction in English and Math led by Marina Burchett and Dr. Vivian Gonzalez-Bodden.  The afternoons will include leadership and cultural events led by Mayra Guzman and Christian Reyes.

The Marvin Lewis Learning is Cool program has kicked off another year in Covington Schools. This program recognizes students for their "A" honor roll achievements by sending quarterly rewards. Students achieving "A" honor roll twice in a school year will be invited to join Marvin Lewis and the Cincinnati Bengals at the Cincinnati Zoo.

Covington Independent Public Schools Family Resource and Youth Service Center Coordinators were recognized at a Celebration of 25 Years of FRYSC in Kentucky.  Our Center Coordinators and Family Advocates provide much needed support for our children and their families.  We are most fortunate to have them in our schools.

Barry Harasan is the financial manager for TANK, but on his lunch break he is a One to One reading coach. Barry volunteers at 9th District Elementary School once a week for 35 minutes. Barry chose this school because it is located close to his work and he can easily volunteer during his lunch hour. He works with one second grade for the year.

Barry heard about the One to One opportunity five years ago, during a TANK meeting. Two representatives came into his meeting and discussed the One to One program. When asked, who would like to volunteer Barry said his hand shot straight up; he saw this as an opportunity to give back to the community.

“You always see things on TV about giving back. This was my opportunity to do that,” Barry

Beginning with the 2017-2018 school year, children must turn age five on or before August 1 in order to enroll in kindergarten (KRS 158.031). In accordance with the law and Board of Education policy, the following procedures are in place for consideration for early entrance for those children who have mastered kindergarten readiness standards. It is important to note that young children develop at different rates and very few children are ready to begin school early.

Covington Independent Public Schools received its official accreditation today during the Continuous Improvement Summit sponsored by the Kentucky Department of Education and AdvancED. 

When Tara Bell moved to Kentucky 16 years ago to begin her teaching career, she immediately fell in love with the students and families of Covington.

“My desire has always been to see the students of Covington reach their full potential and achieve their dreams,’’ she said. “I believe that all students can learn at high levels and that all students deserve to attend high performing schools. Several years ago my passion and love for teaching and the students of Covington led me to seek a degree in administration and move to Covington to help serve the community.‘’

At Covington Partners’ Founder’s Breakfast at the Metropolitan Club this week, a full house celebrated 18 years of student support services for students and families in Covington Independent Public Schools. 

The event, attended by education, community and business leaders from around the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region, highlighted the stories behind the numbers. 

Dr. Janice Wilkerson, founder of Covington Partners, presented Johnna Reeder with the Founder’s Award to recognize her incredible dedication to students, families and the organization. Ms. Reeder was the first Chair of the Covington Partners Board of Directors. 
 
Covington Partners Executive Director and Dr. Wilkerson then led the audience through the history of the organization while highlighting the impact for students and families.

Mayra Sidler Guzman, a community liaison and interpreter for Covington Independent  Public Schools, is among the finalists for the LEGACY 2017 Next Generation Leader Award in the education catgory.    

The Next Generation Leader Awards (NGLA) are designed to salute the region’s young professionals under the age of 40 for significant accomplishments in their chosen professional field, demonstrated leadership, as well as their contribution to the community.

The NGLAs are sponsored by Northern Kentucky University’s Executive Leadership and Organizational Change graduate program

It is with sincere enthusiasm and great pride that I welcome you to the 2017-18 school year. For parents and guardians whose children are entering our schools for the first time, a special welcome and a heartfelt thank you for the trust that you have placed in us.

As we look forward to the first day of school for students on Wednesday, August 23, I would like to take this opportunity to share information about the upcoming school year. Our Board of Education, teachers, staff and administrators have worked hard throughout the summer to improve outcomes for our students by attending workshops, upgrading schools and planning for the future.

Covington Independent Public Schools has been awarded more than $1 million in grants for reading, math and early childhood initiatives.

“We are thrilled to receive these grants as they will help us continue to meet the needs of our students,’’ said Covington Superintendent Alvin Garrison.  “The grants will not only support reading and math, but will help us increase school readiness for our youngest learners.’’
 
Two schools, Sixth District Elementary and Ninth District Elementary - were awarded the Math Achievement Fund Grant from the Kentucky Department of Education. The grant provides teacher training and programming for intervention services for primary students.  The grant is for $50,000 per year over a four year period totaling $200,000 per school. The district will use the grant funds to hire a full time math interventionist who will use a research-based math intervention program to meet the needs of students. 
 

Due to planned construction this summer at 9th District Elementary School, students who would normally attend the Covington Summer Scholars at Ninth will instead attend the program at Sixth District Elementary School, 1901 Maryland Ave.

Covington Independent Public Schools will save an estimated $65,000 a year in electrical costs with the installation of two solar panel systems. The roof-top mounted solar panels were recently installed at John G. Carlisle Elementary School and at the Science Building of Holmes High School. The solar panels will improve the schools’ energy efficiency and environmental quality.

 “The return on the district’s investment into solar is already evident with the reduction in electrical costs,’’ said Covington Superintendent Alvin Garrison.  “Over time the savings could amount to millions of dollars in reduced costs.’’

The solar panels are part of a larger guaranteed energy savings project that the district is completing with Performance Services, an Indiana-based company specializing in construction, energy savings and optimal learning environments. The project is expected to be completed in September

Superintendent Alvin Garrison announced today that Covington Independent Public Schools was granted AdvancED School System Accreditation from the AdvancED Accreditation Commission, the national commission that confers the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI) accreditation seal.

This means that the system and all of its schools are accredited, and that Covington Independent Public Schools is recognized across the nation as a quality school system.

“I am extremely elated about our accreditation,’’ Mr. Garrison said.  “It validates our board’s leadership and the work of our faculty and staff who show up daily to do what’s best for students.  This is another piece of evidence that confirms Covington is on the right track to district improvement.”

March Madness has come to an end and the scores are in.

The winner of the F2B March Madness, with a 2,073,065 word total is JOHN G. CARLISLE!

The tablet winner is MALIYAH MAYS from Ninth District Elementary in Ms. Harnishfeger's class.

Congratulations to all!

Covington Independent Public Schools Elementary Soccer Championship Week is here! Thanks to our players, coaches, and parents for a great (and weather-challenged) regular season.

K-Prep Testing will begin at 9th District Elementary on May 10, 2017.  Here are some suggestions to help your child be successful on test day!  

Covington Independent Public Schools is sponsoring a Million Word Challenge March 27 – April 6, 2017 during March Madness.

Students and families are encouraged to log onto Footsteps2Brilliance to “Shoot for a Million Words.”

The school that reads the most words by April 6 will win a KONA ICE party and an extra recess.

Each student participant will be entered in a drawing to win a tablet.

The winner will be announced on April 7.

Ninth District Elementary School presents Vikings Rising on Monday, May 8,2017.  Students and parents are invited to attend.  Come out for dinner, information, and prizes.

Fifth-grade students at Ninth District Elementary School got to meet some pretty important people at their career fair.

The students spent three weeks researching different careers that interested them. They learned information regarding future education, salary, and job skills.

At the career fair, students asked professionals in their field what they like and don't like about their job. Some students even got to feel what it is like to be a professional.

A bomber pilot, a doctor, a philanthropist, a lawyer and a public relations expert will be inducted into the Holmes High School Hall of Distinction in June. The hall was established in 2000 to honor distinguished graduates and/or friends of Covington Schools for their achievements and contributions to society.

The Covington Board of Education is seeking nominations to the Holmes Hall of Distinction. This year, the board has added a new honor for the Hall – the Holmes High School Outstanding Young Alumnus Award. It is designed to honor Holmes graduates who are 35 years and younger who have made outstanding contributions to society.  

The Covington Summer Scholars program, a collaborative effort between Covington Independent Public Schools, Covington Partners and the City of Covington is hiring Summer Youth Workers.  The position is open to any student who attends school (Holmes, Holy Cross, and Covington Latin) and/or lives in the city of Covington. 

Jaynice Stovall ended her high school career Saturday, one of the winningest careers of anyone in the history of Holmes girls basketball or the state of Kentucky, period.

Stovall and the Bulldogs couldn’t keep up with the high-flying Flyers of Franklin County in the state semifinals of the St. Elizabeth Healthcare/KHSAA Sweet 16 at BB&T Arena. Franklin (33-5) won 51-36 and advanced to Sunday’s 2 p.m. final against Mercer County. Holmes, in its second trip to the state semis (2002), finished 29-6.

The 9th District Science Fair will take place on April 20, 2017.  This event is for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders.  The posters will be on display in the gym from 5:00-6:00 p.m.  A Snack will be provided.  We hope to see you there.

The 2017 Battle of the Bulldogs Talent Show is here. Mark your calendars, write it in your planners, and type reminders on your phones—on Saturday, March 25, at 2 p.m., Holmes High School students will strut their stuff across the Jack Moreland Auditorium stage. Acts include singing sophomores, dancing dudes, guitar-strumming seniors, and acts so incredible you may not even believe your eyes and ears. Do not miss this once in a lifetime experience. Be there. #DropTheMic #DidWeSayItIsFree #BulldogTalent

Parents and guardians of 5-year-old children are encouraged to attend Covington Independent Public Schools’ “Evening of Kindergarten,’’ at 4:30-6:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 5 at each of the district’s elementary schools.

During the evening, parents will receive details about the kindergarten program and a registration packet. They can take a tour the schools and, talk to teachers.

In addition, principals and administrators will be on hand to answer questions about Covington’s Free All-Day Kindergarten program. Parents who attend will receive a Kindergarten Activity Kit and will be entered into a drawing for a Tablet 

When his team fell behind in the first quarter, Holmes girls’ basketball coach Tony Perkins realized he made a mistake coming out in a zone defense against Henderson County in a quarterfinal game of the St. Elizabeth Healthcare/KHSAA state tournament on Friday at BB&T Arena.

Holmes guard Kamari Graham launches a jump shot during her team’s state tournament game against Henderson County.

Holmes junior guard Laila Johnson is one of the best defensive players in the state, according to coach Tony Perkins. He should be pretty happy with what she can do on the offensive side as well.

Holmes junior guard Laila Johnson scored six points during a 13-0 run in the third quarter against Grayson County. 

Ticket sales for the Lady Bulldogs' Sweet 16 tournament game tonight at 8 p.m. at NKU will end at 12:30 today. Regional championship t-shirts are sold out, but other spirit wear is available in the bookstore.

Holmes basketball players got together in a circle and did a little victory dance after their 58-52 win over Cooper in the championship game of the 9th Region girls’ tournament on Sunday at BB&T Arena. After being ranked No. 1 in the region all season, they were excited about taking the title for the second consecutive year — and a little relieved.

“We’ve had a target on our back since game one,” said Holmes senior point guard Jaynice Stovall. “We just had to stay strong and finish strong.”

This is the first time that Holmes has won back-to-back 9th Region championships in girls’ basketball. The last team to do that was Boone County in 2009 and 2010. The Bulldogs will return to the state tournament at BB&T Arena and play 3rd Region champion Grayson County in a first-round game at 8 p.m. Thursday.

Stovall is the only senior among the Holmes starting five that’s on the court for nearly every minute in every game. Her play-making ability and aggressive defense have been a big part of the team’s success this season. No one was surprised when she was named most valuable player after the regional final.

But it was a good team effort that carried Holmes to the win over Cooper. The Bulldogs had three players score in double figures and they passed the ball well enough to get 14 assists on 21 field goals. They also played solid half-court defense after their usual full-court pressure didn’t work.

Alvin L. Garrison will continue his work as superintendent of Covington Independent Public Schools for at least 4 more years.