The Holmes High School Class of 2023 took a stroll down memory lane on Thursday as they walked around the Covington elementary schools and Holmes Middle School. Future Bulldogs cheered on the soon-to-be graduates with applause, music and signs. Hugs, smiles and tears by both seniors and staff members could be found at every school.

The Class of 2023 will graduate on Friday, June 9.

Bulldogs give back in a big way at the third annual Bulldogs Give Back Day of Service. More than 600 students from Holmes High School participated in a community-wide day of service on Friday, May 26.

The students worked throughout Covington planting flowers, picking up trash, sorting donations, working with elementary students, cleaning classrooms, painting hallways and more.

Nick Spearman has traveled the world, capturing major sporting events that are watched by millions of viewers. Spearman, who graduated from Holmes High School in 2013, is a freelance video engineer who has helped produce sporting events such as the Tokyo Olympics, Women’s US Open, Masters Tournament, NASCAR, PGA, tennis, Sunday Night Football, NBA All-Star Games and the Kentucky Derby.

“It’s a pretty neat job,” Spearman said. “Holmes put me on the path to me getting where I am currently.  “I’ve been lucky and blessed to continue on and learn different positions.”

Join us for the Holmes High School Arts and Culture Showcase on Friday, May 19, 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. on the Holmes campus. Stop by the library to get a glimpse of the amazing artwork created by Holmes students and enjoy a concert performance by high school and middle school band students at 5 p.m. in the auditorium. The concert is followed by an International Food Festival and a cooking contest.

Schools and offices are closed on Tuesday, May 16 for Election Day. Students will return to school on Wednesday, May 17.

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

22-23 Annual Title One Survey ~ English 

Para servir mejor a los estudiantes de nuestra escuela, nos gustaría su opinión. El aporte de esta encuesta nos ayudará a satisfacer mejor las necesidades de su estudiante. Por favor llene una para cada una de las escuelas a las que asisten sus hijos. Este formulario se puede utilizar varias veces. Agradecemos su tiempo, comentarios y sugerencias.

22-23 Annual Title One Survey ~ Spanish 

Veteran educator Rachel Jenkins will serve as the next principal of Ninth District Elementary School in Covington.

Mrs. Jenkins has worked in Covington Independent Public Schools for 18 years. Before becoming an Instructional Coach at Ninth District this school year, she served as a teacher at Glenn O. Swing Elementary School for 17 years.

Covington’s Antaya Epps says it's important to be a role model. The senior at Holmes High School has a 4.6 GPA and is ranked number one in her class at the oldest public high school in the state. She said she is “very proud, it's something that not a lot of people can say. It's great.”

Greetings CIPS staff:
The Covington Board of Education Thursday night approved a 4 percent salary increase for nearly all employees for the upcoming school year. The salary increase, coupled with a normal step increase, will amount to even more funds for most employees. A step increase is approximately 1.9 percent for most employees.

Holmes High School icon Gary Huhn has been named the 2023 Kentucky Athletic Administrators' Association Dr. Rudy Ellis Distinguished Service Award Recipient. Mr. Huhn's outstanding contributions to high school athletics over the years, and his service to athletic administrators, student-athletes and the community paved the way for this award.

Mr. Huhn has played a major part in Holmes High School athletics and academics for over 55 years.

Congratulations, Mr. Huhn!

Reminder:  School resumes Tuesday, April 11.

We hope you enjoyed your Spring Break!

March 28, 2023 ~ The purpose of this update is to communicate directly with you important information related to our school district and to do so with as much honesty and transparency as we can.

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.

Holmes High School junior Misha Salaah recently participated in Legislative Page Day at the state capitol in Frankfort. She was selected by completing an application and a short essay about "What I want my legislators to know about FRYSC" (Family Resource/Youth Services Center). She got to tour the Capitol building, ate lunch in the cafeteria, and was given some instructions before being introduced to Senator Shelley Funke Frommeyer. Misha sat on the senate floor with Senator Frommeyer and had several great interactions during the proceedings.

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.  

The Holmes High School carpentry class led by Eric Breetz was recognized by the Board of Education on Thursday night. They have been doing some amazing things this year such as designing and building a parade float for the BLINK and Findlay Market Opening Day parades, completing the OSHA Construction Safety training program, building the set for the Holmes Middle School play, and participating in the CTE Showcase at the state capitol. 

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.

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.

Today is Read Across America Day. Several Covington schools celebrated with Spirit Week activities and special guest speakers and readers.

Holmes High School senior heavyweight Emauryon Arnold finished 4th at the KHSAA State Wrestling Championships Saturday, the highest state placement for a Bulldog wrestler since 1993.

Holmes High School carpentry students have had quite the week. On Tuesday, students participated in the Career and Technical Education Showcase at the Kentucky state capital in Frankfort.

Our students showcased two projects they designed and constructed as they interacted with legislators and members of the Kentucky Department of Education. The projects feature a Holmes Castle elevator plus a workbench with a variety of modern and antique carpentry tools.

Due to numerous injuries, the Holmes High School girls varsity district basketball game against Holy Cross on Tuesday, February 21 has been canceled. The game will count as a forfeit and will not be rescheduled, thus ending the season for Holmes.

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.

Congratulations to senior heavyweight Emauryon Arnold who won the wrestling Regional Title on Saturday and was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Wrestler. Arnold (47-5) and two Bulldog juniors, Reese Hill (4th place at 132) and Robert Cameron (3rd place at 144) will compete at the KHSAA State Tournament. Wrestling begins at the Semi-State Tournament at Ryle High School on Saturday, February 18. The top 8 wrestlers from each Semi-State will compete at the State Finals on February 25. The Bulldogs are coached by Andy Price.

Go Bulldogs!

Members of the Holmes Middle School Student Council received some valuable training today when they met with officials who run the City of Covington. 

The students took a tour of the City Building and heard presentations from Ron Washington, Commissioner; Stacey Hoeter, Human Resources; Ben Oldiges, Parks and Recreation; Keith Bales, Public Works; Steve Webb, Finance; and Kyle Snyder, Economic Development. The students asked questions about area parks, potholes, stray cats and farmer’s markets. They learned about the city’s budget, future plans for parks, how to run for city commissioner and how taxes fund our city.

Students also met with Mayor Joe Meyer and received a book about our great city.

We thank teachers Ms. Sorterup and Mr. Clemons who worked with Washington to make this event happen.

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.

Senior Night for basketball, wrestling, swimming, and E-sports will be Friday, February 10 at 7 p.m. vs Beechwood. This is a change from the original date of Tuesday, February 7.

Congratulations to Holmes High School senior Xaria Foster, who was awarded the St. Elizabeth Healthcare NAACP Dr. King scholarship during the King celebration Monday afternoon. Xaria plans on majoring in nursing when she attends college in the fall.

Congratulations to the Holmes Wrestling Team who qualified for the Kentucky Wrestling Coaches Association State Duals Championships for the first time in school history on Saturday by finishing second at the 1A Sectional Tournament.

The Bulldogs posted a 3-1 record, defeating Newport 52-18, Louisville Western 42-36, and Covington Catholic 42-24. Holmes dropped a 52-24 dual to Walton-Verona in the championship.

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

Students at Glenn O. Swing Elementary School enjoyed Holiday Crafts with Cops on Thursday evening. Covington police officers joined students and their families for cookies, hot chocolate, crafts and pictures with Santa.

A Holmes High School student has been arrested in conjunction with a weapon found on campus on Monday, November 28. The student will face both criminal and school disciplinary charges.  

“We take these matters seriously,” said Superintendent Alvin Garrison. “The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority. The student will be punished to the fullest extent of the law.”

Update.

The lockdown on the Holmes campus has been lifted. Police determined that the campus is safe and students could return to class. After lunch, students will return to their normal schedule of classes. We thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.

Out of an abundance of caution, the Holmes campus was placed on lockdown after a weapon was found on campus. No threat was made and the weapon has been secured. The campus will remain on lockdown until police complete its investigation.

As we receive more information, we will share it with you.

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.

On Tuesday, November 1, several Holmes High School and Middle School students were recognized by the Kenton County Alliance as youth who have been good role models in the prevention of substance misuse.

Throughout the year programs and campaigns are held to encourage students to be substance free. These students were chosen to represent Holmes for their anti-drug actions. These students serve as positive role models in the school and community.

Happy 247th Birthday, United States Marine Corps!

November 10 is celebrated by Marines around the globe as an annual renewal of each Marine’s commitment to the Corps and the Corps’ commitment to our nation's quest for peace and freedom worldwide.

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.

Cheer on the Holmes High School Bulldogs as they take on Bourbon County in the first round of the playoffs, Friday, November 4, at 7 p.m. at Holmes.

Admission is $5 at the gate.

Go Bulldogs!

It was an exciting day at Holmes High School on Tuesday as the students and staff welcomed a very special visitor.

Governor Andy Beshear visited the Holmes campus to deliver nearly $16 million in infrastructure and education funding to Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties. The funding comes through the Governor’s Better Schools Program, his Cleaner Water Program, Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Response funds, and the Energy and Environment Cabinet.

On Monday, October 31, several Holmes High School students reported receiving an anonymous threat of violence on their devices via AirDrop. Out of an abundance of caution and to secure the building to keep students and staff safe, the Holmes campus was placed on lockdown for approximately 30 minutes.
  
Police and school security investigated the potential threat and found nothing unusual while conducting a thorough external and interior search of the building. Students returned to their regular schedule after the lockdown was lifted. Officials noted that schools across the nation have been receiving threats through the AirDrop feature.

As you may know, our school is committed to the safety and education of all students and our priority is to keep students safe at all times. We must take all threats seriously. We apologize for any inconvenience while we thank you for your patience and for your understanding during this time.

Sincerely, 

Alvin Garrison, Superintendent

The Bulldogs play Lloyd at Lloyd on Thursday, October 27 in place of the game vs. Bellevue originally scheduled for Friday, October 28. The game begins at 7 p.m.

Holmes was well represented in the BLINK parade on Thursday night in front of a large crowd of spectators. Holmes Middle School principal, Lee Turner, was a torch bearer leading the way for the Holmes High School Marching Band, ROTC Color Guard, and SkillsUSA members.

Due to Bellevue High School canceling the remainder of its varsity football season, Holmes will now play Lloyd High School on Thursday, October 27 at 7 p.m. The game will be played at Lloyd. The Bulldogs were originally scheduled to play Bellevue on Friday, October 28 at Holmes. Please note the change in date and location.

Go Bulldogs!

Holmes and Bellevue will now play football on Thursday, October 27 at Holmes High School. The game was originally scheduled for Friday, October 28. Please make note of the change in schedule.

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.

Support the American Cancer Society while cheering on the Bulldogs in a powder puff football game featuring the Holmes High School staff against the Holmes Middle School Staff. The game kicks off on Tuesday, October 4 at 6 p.m. at Holmes stadium. Admission is $2 and all proceeds go to the American Cancer Society. Go Bulldogs!

The Holmes vs. Rowan County Homecoming football game will be broadcast live on https://www.859sportsradio.com/

When you hear the Holmes High School Fight Song, stand up, clap, and sing along.

To make sure you are ready for Homecoming on Friday, the Holmes High School band has recorded the song for you. Conrad Krieger, band director, gives an example of the melody.

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.

Vote for Holmes senior Curtez Hill for the TriStateFootball.com Player of the Week. Curtez ran for 166 yards on 15 carries, amassed 224 all-purpose yards, and had an interception and a pair of rushing touchdowns in the Bulldogs' 40-27 victory over Holy Cross.

Vote once per hour here.

Also, Curtez and the Holmes varsity football team are up for the Cincinnati.com Athletes of the Week.

Please vote here for both Curtez and the team once per hour per device until Friday at 4 p.m.

Congratulations to the Holmes senior soccer players who celebrated Senior Night on Monday. Good luck in your future endeavors. Remember, Once a Bulldog, Always a Bulldog!

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).

Stop what you are doing and vote for not one, not two, but three Holmes High School nominees as the Cincinnati Enquirer Team/Athlete of the Week.

Curtez Hill (NKY football player of the week) rushed for 114 yards and caught a 55-yard touchdown pass in the Bulldogs’ 32-28 win over Newport that improved their record to 3-1.

A big shoutout to the Cincinnati Bengals who stopped by John G. Carlisle today to drop off some flag football equipment. Cornerback Mike Hilton, Offensive Lineman Ted Karras, and Who-Dey joined a gym class and took the students through some passing and fancy footwork drills. The students also participated in a relay race by putting on a Bengals uniform and scoring a touchdown. The smiles on everyone's faces show how much fun they had.

It's a great night for soccer. Come out to Holmes High School tonight for Soccer Alumni Night. The Lady Bulldogs look to continue their winning streak as they take on St. Patrick in the first match beginning at 5:30 p.m. followed by the boys' match at approximately 7 p.m.

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.

September is Attendance Awareness Month. Students learn more when they are in school. Please make sure your child is in school every day. Let's make this a great year!

Welcome back to our wonderful students and families. We were so glad to see so many smiling faces. We are going to have an amazing school year.

To see more pictures from our first day of school, visit our Facebook page.

Several Holmes High School seniors gathered on the football field early this morning to watch the sunrise together as they begin their last year of high school. They will gather again on the last day of school to watch the sunset. What a great way to celebrate the beginning and end of their senior year.

If you are a Bulldog sports fan, you can catch a lot of action in the next three days. The Holmes High School volleyball team plays Heritage Academy on Thursday at 6 p.m. in the field house. At the same time, the girls' soccer team will face Gallatin County followed by the boys' soccer team against Grant County, both games at Holmes.

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.

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

Students and Families,

We are so excited for the 2022-2023 school year, and we can’t wait to see all of our bulldogs back at school on our first day, August 29th. Administrators, counselors, teachers, custodians, and staff have been working hard this summer to ensure a great start to the school year.

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

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.

It’s a hot Monday morning in June at David Evans Gymnasium.

The banners stand out on both ends of the gym located at Holmes High School, the oldest public high school in Kentucky. On the floor, Bulldogs boys basketball head coach Tony Perkins and his assistants commend the returning players on how much they’ve improved since Perkins took the job in May.

A lot of magic has happened over the years on that floor.

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!

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

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.

Boys basketball coach

Tony Perkins, who led the Holmes girls’ basketball team to three regional finals and two state tournament appearances, will now serve as the head basketball coach for the Holmes boys’ basketball team.

“I like a challenge and I am looking forward to being able to make a difference on the floor, in school and in life in general for our students,” Perkins said. Perkins replaces Brad Carr, who resigned earlier this year.

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

Tracy Pope is the new head coach of the Holmes Lady Bulldogs.

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

by Northern Kentucky Tribune

Sixth District Elementary School in Covington will have a new leader next school year. Joe Moran, who now serves as the school’s assistant principal, will be the principal of the school. He replaces Brian Walz, who is retiring after 27 years in education.

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.

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.

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.

Congratulations to Holmes senior Damian Green on receiving the Anthony Munoz Foundation "Straight A" Scholarship. Damian played football and wrestled for the Bulldogs and carries a 4.1 GPA. He will attend the University of Kentucky this fall to major in mechanical engineering. Damian was selected from over 350 candidates.

Congratulations to the Holmes SkillsUSA students who competed in the SkillsUSA State Competition last week in Louisville.

Need a job? Holmes High School is hosting a community job fair Tuesday, April 19, 2022, in the fieldhouse. Come talk with employers in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, construction, business, and many other areas. Students can attend the job fair 2:30-3:30 p.m. and it will open to the community at 3:30.

Vote for Holmes High School's fastpitch softball team for Team of the Week. The Lady Bulldogs have outscored their last three opponents 51-5 in just 10 innings, most recently a 16-1 defeat of Augusta on April 4.

You can vote once per hour per device until 4 p.m. Friday. Click here to vote.

Go Bulldogs!

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

COVINGTON, Ky. (WKRC) – Local high school students are using their trade skills to help fight fires.

Their skills require precision and problem-solving. That's why Milo Marshal is invested in his carpentry class at Holmes High School.

The class's newest project is a big collaboration with the Covington Fire Department.

Students at Glenn O. Swing Elementary will work remotely today, Thursday, March 31 due to a power outage. Please do not report to the school.

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.

A Holmes High School student was taken into custody this morning (Tuesday, March 29, 2022) after a fake gun was found in his possession.

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.

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!

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.

Holmes High School seniors Geoffrey Johnson and DaShaun Stevenson competed at the KHSAA State Wrestling Tournament at George Rogers Clark High School this past Friday and Saturday.

Johnson went 1-2 at 215 pounds, capping off an amazing senior season with a record of 31-11.

Stevenson, wrestling at Heavyweight, earned 6th place in the State of Kentucky, finishing his senior season with a record of 27-4.

Congratulations!

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.

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.

COVINGTON, Ky. (WXIX) - During Black History Month, Holmes Middle School staff members are honoring their grandmothers and the roles women have in building a strong family.

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.

Kay and Mike Murphy had a special love for Holmes High School.

 The two were very involved in school. Both were on the student council. He lettered in four sports – football, basketball, baseball and track, and also won a state championship in pole vaulting.

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

The Holmes girls' JV/varsity basketball games scheduled for Thursday, February 3 at Holy Cross are postponed. The game is rescheduled for Tuesday, February 8 at 5:30 p.m. at Holy Cross. This new date will be a varsity game only. Go Bulldogs! 

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:

 

Students in the Bloomerang program at Latonia Elementary School presented flowers to members of the Covington Board of Education for Board Appreciation Month. Each arrangement was designed and created by a member of the after-school program. Thank you, students and board members.

The Holmes High School boys and girls basketball games scheduled for this evening, Friday, January 28, are canceled due to inclement weather.

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:

Holmes High School celebrated long-time teacher and scorekeeper, Gary Huhn, on Friday with Mr. Huhn Night. Mr. Huhn was honored between the JV and Varsity basketball games. He received a letterman's jacket, a proclamation from the city of Covington and a block made by Holmes' carpentry students from the old gym floor. The night was topped off by the unveiling of the new Gary Huhn Scorer's Table.

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

Congratulations to Ben Nevels who was honored by the Northern Kentucky Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People at its annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration.

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.

The high school and middle school wrestling meet against Campbell County and Highlands is canceled for Wednesday, January 12, 2022.

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."

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.

The Holmes High School girls' JV and varsity games vs Lloyd for Friday, January 7 have been canceled.

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.

Congratulations to the Holmes Lady Bulldogs for starting the season with a win. The Lady Dogs beat Boone County 71-42 on Monday on the Rebels' home court.

Holmes boys' varsity and JV tip off the season tonight against Bracken County. The Dogs play at Holmes at 6 and 7:30 p.m.

Go Bulldogs!

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.

This past Saturday, nearly 200 people showed up for the COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic held in the fieldhouse of Holmes High School. Covington Schools partnered with the NFL Alumni, NFL Alumni Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky Health Department, St. Elizabeth Healthcare, and the City of Covington to educate and vaccinate individuals still needing a COVID vaccine or booster shot. In all, 88 people received a shot.

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.

REMINDER:

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

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.

The Holmes Bulldogs need your vote! The Holmes varsity football team is nominated for Team of the Week after the big win on Friday against Newport. Vote once per hour per device until 5 p.m. on Friday. Go Bulldogs!

Click here to vote

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. 

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.

Ellen Peach, who began her educational career at Glenn O. Swing Elementary School as a kindergarten teacher 12 years ago, will now serve as principal of the school.
 

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.

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

Holmes High School's Class of 2021 graduated on Friday, June 4 in a beautiful ceremony in Tom Ellis Stadium. The 151 graduates earned 250 college credits and numerous scholarships to help them in the next chapter of their lives. Kyndall Miller was the valedictorian and Chrystie Cadet was the salutatorian.

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

Congratulations to the Holmes High School track team on success at the regional track meet on Tuesday.

Regional Winners and automatic State Qualifiers:

Boys 100 Meter Dash
1st Place - Abdul Salaah
2nd Place - Curtez Hill

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 students spent the last day of school participating in the first Bulldogs Give Back Day of Service. Students in grades 9-12 spent the afternoon painting fences and murals, picking up trash along the Licking River, helping other district schools with field day and graduations, planting flowers, building little libraries, and packing bags for incoming freshmen and preschoolers.

The Holmes band provided musical entertainment as the students worked. It was a wonderful day to give back to the Covington community.

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!

The third annual HESPY Awards took place on Thursday, May 20 at Holmes High School. The athletes walked the red carpet before the ceremony recognized student-athletes for their commitment and athletic and academic success.

Congratulations to all nominees and winners.

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

Covington Independent Public Schools announced Wednesday that Maranda Meyer will be the new principal at Latonia Elementary.

Marching band is open to all 2021-22 high school students. Contact conrad.krieger@covington.kyschools.us for more information.

Happy Nurses' Week to our school nurses!

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

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.

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:

Eighth graders from Holmes Middle School visited the Freshman Fair today to give them an idea of what to expect next year at Holmes High School. Students were able to get a look at different career pathways including Health Sciences, Biomedical, Media Arts, Business, ROTC, Carpentry, and Welding.

The incoming freshmen also had the chance to sign up to participate next year in clubs, sports teams, and marching band.

The Freshman Fair was coordinated by students in the Holmes Successful Bulldog Enterprise.

When Alaria Long was in fourth grade at Glenn O. Swing Elementary School in 2009, she sat in the classroom of her favorite teacher, Rachel Jenkins, who taught her reading, writing and math.



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

Holmes High School competed in its first Unified track meet on Thursday at Scott High School.

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.

Teo Jordan says he just wanted to help when he heard a cashier tell a man that he did not have enough money to cover his grocery bill. Teo, an 18-year-old Holmes High School senior was working as a bagger at Kroger in Covington when he reached into his own pocket and gave the cashier all the money he had -- $35 to cover the man’s bill.

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:

Holmes High School senior Kyndall Miller has been awarded a full scholarship to the University of Louisville.

She is the recipient of the Brown Fellows Scholarship, which is designed to support students’ unique personal, academic, and career goals while producing outstanding ambassadors for the state of Kentucky. It is open to students with a 29 ACT or 1330 SAT and 3.5 grade point average.

Congratulations to Holmes High School athletic director Ken Ellis for being named the 9th Region Athletic Director of the Year by the Kentucky High School Athletic Directors' Association.

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!

Congratulations to Holmes wrestlers Noah Stanley and Blake DeMoss for qualifying for the wrestling state tournament.

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.  

The Holmes Bulldogs will play Covington Catholic on Tuesday, March 16, at 5:30 p.m. at Holmes High School in the first round of the 35th District Tournament.

Tickets will be sold beginning Monday, March 15, at 9:30 a.m. in the main office. 

The Holmes Lady Bulldogs will play Holy Cross on Wednesday, March 17, at 8 p.m. also at Holmes.

Tickets for this game will be sold beginning Tuesday, March 16, at 9:30 a.m. in the main office.

All tickets are $6 each. Please bring exact change when purchasing tickets.

Congratulations to Holmes High School's senior basketball players, cheerleaders and band members who celebrated senior night on Monday with a win over Walton Verona.

High school or middle school students interested in playing high school volleyball for the 2021 season should attend a virtual meeting on Thursday, March 11, at 3:30 p.m. Contact Coach Pam Brewer at pam.brewer@covington.kyschools.us for the google meet code.

Conditioning begins on Tuesday, March 16 at 3:30 and will be held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Congratulations to Holmes High School senior swimmer Gracie Mount who was recognized at the senior swim meet on Saturday.

March is Youth Art Month. A time for celebration of visual arts! Access to art class is integral in education. Art provides a platform for experiences that build 21st century skills within our students such as problem solving, creativity, observation, visualization, and communication.

Tonight's game for the Holmes Lady Bulldogs vs. St. Henry has been moved to 6:30 p.m. Watch a live stream of the game on the Holmes Athletics YouTube channel.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqADJHSkriIE2XWQQcnHNOA

Congratulations to Quantez Calloway on scoring his 1,000th point as a Bulldog!

Congratulations to the Holmes High School Esports team. On Thursday, February 25, the Bulldogs beat St. Francis School of Louisville in the first scrimmage match of the season. Go Bulldogs!

For more information on the Esports team click here.

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.

Sixteen-year-old Haidyn Legner has never been part of a school sporting team, until now. The sophomore at Holmes High School has joined the schools’ Esports, a new sport that is taking Kentucky students by storm.

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

https://youtu.be/RN384qRpnqw

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.

Catch the Lady Bulldogs as they face Holy Cross in an important district game tonight at 6 p.m. at Holmes High School.

The game will be streamed live at

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=holmes+athletics

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.

Holmes Middle School eighth grade basketball players and cheerleaders were recognized on Saturday, February 13. Congratulations on your success. We can't wait to see you at the high school.

The Holmes High School boys JV and varsity basketball games scheduled for Monday, February 15 at Holmes vs Campbell County, are cancelled due to impending 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.

Watch both varsity games here:

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=holmes+athletics

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. 

Vote for Holmes High School senior wrestler Noah Stanley, as Wrestler of the Week. Noah went 4-0 at the sectional duals on February 6 in the 120-pound weight class.

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!

Catch the Lady Bulldogs in action tonight, Friday, February 5, against Dixie at 6 p.m.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVCx6p8zLauhGYVx7JecKiw?fbclid=IwAR0dXj001kkOH0TB2jvzb6tG6E3km7ruaOM9DPIzfbElmgufSOPhjZ_4LsA

The Lady Bulldogs' game scheduled at Augusta for tonight has been cancelled due to inclement weather.

Congratulations to the Holmes High School wrestling team. The Bulldogs finished in 2nd place out of 11 teams at the Jessamine County Clash.

Individual results:

Noah Stanley - 1st place

Damien Green - 1st place

Emauryon Arnold - 2nd place

Braiden Green - 2nd place

Alex Floyd - 3rd place

DaShaun Stevenson - 3rd place

Go Bulldogs!

Today's Holmes boys JV/Varsity basketball games have been postponed due to impending inclement weather.

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.

Vote for Holmes High School basketball player Nejai Lewis for the Cincinnati Enquirer Player of the Week. The sophomore had 18 points and 18 rebounds in a win over St. Patrick on January 22, which was Holmes’ fourth straight.

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/high-school/player-of-the-week/2021/01/26/vote-cincinnati-enquirer-high-school-athletes-week-jan-25/6699638002/

Vote once per hour per device. Voting ends Friday at 5 p.m.

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.

Catch all the action virtually as the varsity Bulldogs take on the Tigers of Louisville St. Xavier tonight at 6:30 p.m.

https://www.meridix.com/event/180527

Go Bulldogs!

Two Northern Kentucky students were honored as award winners at the 2021 Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards, hosted by the Martin Luther King, Jr. State Commission during a video ceremony on Monday in honor of the civil rights leader.

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.

Holmes High School sophomore Nejai Lewis pulled down 18 rebounds and scored 13 points against Simon Kenton this week. She is averaging a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds per game.

The Lady Bulldogs are back in action Wednesday night against Ludlow at Holmes. The JV plays at 6 p.m. followed by the varsity at 7:30.

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. 

The Holmes High School boys varsity basketball team is 2 - 0 after wins against Ludlow and Bracken County. The Bulldogs are led by Eian Elmer who is averaging 18 points per game.

Congratulations to Holmes High School wrestling senior Noah Stanley for going 2-0 on Senior Night. The Bulldogs lost to Sycamore and Conner but will be back in action Saturday vs. Scott and Mt. Healthy.

Go Bulldogs!

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.

When COVID-19 keeps students away from school, the staff members at Sixth District Elementary School go to the students. Teachers, principals, Santa and the Grinch paraded through the streets of Covington to wish the Dolphin students a very Merry Christmas. It was hard to tell who was more excited - the students or the teachers.

Friday, December 18 is the last day of school before winter break. Happy Holidays!

Santa and the staff members at James E. Biggs Early Childhood Education Center braved the winter weather on Wednesday to wish their preschoolers a Merry Christmas. The students with their families drove through the bus lane to receive candy, books, meals and a gift from Santa.

Santa and his elves will be back at Biggs on Thursday, noon - 1 p.m., to greet more students with holiday cheer.

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. 

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.

PARENTS PLEASE SELECT INSTRUCTIONAL OPTIONS FOR NEXT SEMESTER

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.

In a year of limited practices and many obstacles, the Holmes High School football team rallied to a 7-3 record, and landed three players and a coach on the list of the best in Northern Kentucky. 

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.

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.



The Holmes Bulldogs take on Boyd County in the first round of the playoffs on Saturday, November 21, at 4 p.m. at Holmes High School.

Tickets are available in the high school lobby beginning at 9 a.m. on Friday. All tickets are $5. Please bring the correct change.

Watch the game live at www.meridix.com/event/176543.

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.

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.

Can't make it to the football game? Follow the live stream of the Holmes Bulldogs (6-2) as they travel to Newport Central Catholic (6-1) tonight at meridix.com/event/175941.

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.

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.

Covington Independent Public Schools has saved nearly $500,000 in energy costs since completing its energy savings project two years ago. The district’s project included renovating building systems, converting the district’s interior and exterior lights to LED high-efficiency lighting, and installing solar panels at two of its schools.

The Holmes Bulldogs are District Champions after going 4-0 in district play this season. The Dogs beat Scott High School 50-25 Friday night to cap an incredible run earning them the #1 seed in the playoffs.

Go Bulldogs!

A Covington teenager is being applauded for an act of kindness.

“Just treat people the way you want to be treated (and) always help out if someone needs it,” Teo Jordan said.

As promised, we are updating you on the communications you received yesterday regarding an individual in our school who recently tested positive for COVID19.

Late this weekend, Holmes High School received notification that an individual in the school 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.

The Bulldogs are 2-0 in district play as they travel to Harrison County this week. Tickets for the game can be purchased in the high school office Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. No tickets will be sold at the game.

Go Bulldogs!

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.

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.

It's football time in the C-O-V. The Holmes High School Bulldogs are ready to get started and win some games. The Dogs play Louisville Holy Cross Friday, September 11 at 7 p.m. at Holmes. For more information on supporting the Bulldogs, please carefully read the guidelines below.

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.

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.

Any Holmes High School student interested in becoming a member of the 2020-2021 JV/Varsity Cheerleading squad should pick up an information packet on Tuesday, July 21. Coaches and packets will be available from 3 - 4 p.m. under the connector on Campus Drive. If you have a current physical, please bring a copy with you. Go Bulldogs!

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?

Holmes High School is considering adding a girls soccer team for the 2020 season. If you are a high school girl interested in playing soccer for the Bulldogs, please contact Ken Ellis at ken.ellis@covington.kyschools.us or Tina Stevens at tina.stevens@covington.kyschools.us. 

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.

Holmes High School is proud to present the second annual HESPY Awards.

“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.”

Holmes High School students interested in playing a fall sport should stop by the school to pick up a packet of information outlining details of physicals, conditioning, practices, and the season at the scheduled time and place. Contact the coach if you or a parent are unable to pick up the details.

Holmes Middle School team info will be coming out at a later date.

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

The Holmes High School Class of 2020 graduation video is taking longer to upload than anticipated. The video will be posted as soon as the upload is complete. Thank you for your patience.

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

Holmes High School continues to honor the Class of 2020.

Banners recognizing each graduate flank the school's front entrance on Madison Avenue. Each student will receive their banner when they are removed at the end of the summer.

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.

Students at Holmes select a career pathway to follow during their high school tenure. Incoming freshmen normally are offered on-site tours of the pathway programs so they can make an informed decision about their choice before they enter ninth grade. Because schools were closed, the tours were not possible. However, teachers and students produced videos and informational slides to let future Bulldogs know of all the great possibilities.  

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.

(FRANKFORT, KY) - Kentucky high school seniors and teachers are encouraged to share their stories and participate in the national “Graduate Together” telecast at 8 p.m. ET this Saturday, May 16.

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.

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

The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce (NKY Chamber) is pleased to announce the 46 high school juniors selected for the 2021 Regional Youth Leadership (RYL) class. The students, who come from 34 high schools across Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati, are rising juniors and leaders within their communities.

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. 

Senior Spotlight - Betty Ramirez

Plans After High School
My plan after high school is to go to college in the fall. I will be doing the Gateway2NKU program.

Senior Spotlight - Phillip Madison

Plans After High School
I plan to attend Union College and play football.

Senior Spotlight - Malaysia Chames

Plans After High School
I hope to attend Northern Kentucky University and pursue a business degree.

Senior Spotlight - Madeline Whaley

Plans After High School
I plan on attending the University of Cincinnati in the Fall and majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders. I also plan on getting my Master’s Degree in Speech Pathology and becoming a Speech Pathologist.

Senior Spotlight - Asiago Lattimore

Plans After High School

I’m taking a gap year but the following school year I’m going to Mount Saint Joseph University to study Music Education.

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.

Attention Juniors and Seniors:
Don't miss out on college visits. Visit over 600 colleges from your home.
https://www.youvisit.com/collegesearch/

At 20:20 military time (8:20 p.m.) on Wednesday, Holmes High School, along with other area high schools, honored the Class of 2020 by lighting up the football stadium for 20 minutes and 20 seconds.

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)

The Transformational Learning Center of Covington Independent  Public Schools and the Children's Home of Northern Kentucky are featured on KET for the unique services they are providing.

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.

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. 
 

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.

Congratulations to Holmes High School welding students on medaling at the SkillsUSA regional competition this weekend.

Luke Richter - 1st place in Welding

Brandon Smith - 3rd place in Welding

Eli Pennington - 1st place in Welding 1

Damien Green - 2nd place in Welding 1

Richter, Pennington, and Green will advance to the SkillsUSA state competition in April.

Members of sororities and fraternities from the Devine Nine were on the Holmes High School campus Thursday as part of the school’s Black History Month activities. The members, which included staff members and a graduate of Holmes, explained to students the history of the organizations and the importance – such as scholarship, community service and sister- and brother-hood. They then put on a magnificent step show that students enjoyed immensely.

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

When Gary Kathman saw a post about Holmes High School students getting jobs in the construction field, he said to himself, “they need proper boots for those jobs and I know they are expensive.” 

Covington schools are on a normal schedule

The Holmes boys varsity basketball team is on a 3-game winning streak. Please vote for the Bulldogs as Cincinnati Enquirer's Team of the Week.

Voters can cast one vote per hour per device until 5 p.m. Friday.

Go Bulldogs!

Congratulations to Holmes wrestlers Caige Spicer and Leshawn Simmons on Senior Night. The boys have combined for over 200 wins over their careers and a lot of great memories!

The team celebrated with two wins: 48-33 over Talawanda & 60-12 over Mt. Healthy.

Go Bulldogs!

On Saturday, Holmes Middle School and Glenn O. Swing Elementary participated in the NKCCA Cheer Competition at Ryle High School. Both teams won first place in their divisions. HMS is coached by Karissa Pickens and Chelsea Fischer. GOS is coached by Karissa Pickens, Vicki Lickert, and Rheannon Peterson.

Congratulations to both teams on their big wins!

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.  

It's National Reading Day!

Students at John G. Carlisle have a lot to read after a visit from WCPO-TV, Scripps and Scholastic Books. As part of the Scripps Howard Foundation's "If you give a child a book!" campaign each student got to choose four free books from the Scholastic book fair.

Students at John G. Carlisle discovered that learning is cool when FC Cincinnati player, Brandon Vazquez, and the FCC mascot visited their school promoting the "Learning Is Cool" program.

Holmes High School's baseball and softball teams received a donation of equipment for the upcoming season. St. Elizabeth Healthcare and the Reds Community Fund distributed $22,500 worth of baseball and softball equipment to 12 Northern Kentucky high schools and three youth organizations.

Holmes High School students, their history teacher, Derek Gaiser, Covington Board Member, Tom Wherry and Superintendent Alvin Garrison attend the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. luncheon at the Syndicate in Newport. The event is the 17th annual luncheon sponsored by the Northern Kentucky NAACP.

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.

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.

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.

The Covington Schools cheerleading competition was held on Saturday. All teams did a fantastic job.

Congratulations to Glenn O. Swing on winning first place and Sixth District Elementary on second place.

Due to incoming weather the Girls Varsity Basketball game at Scott Co. has been postponed until tomorrow evening.

The Freshmen game originally scheduled for today has been moved to Monday 12/23 at 11:30 a.m.

Ken Ellis, a former teacher, coach, referee, principal, and superintendent will serve as the interim athletic director for Holmes High School.

Two seniors at Holmes High School are taking advantage of the skills they have learned in carpentry class by working in paid co op positions with a local construction company.

Congratulations to Holmes High School athletes Montasia Jones and Hunter McGill. Montasia was a finalist for the Dena Gosney Scholarship award in volleyball. She was 1 of 5 finalists nominated by coaches. She received a monetary award. 

Montasia was also selected to the All-Conference Team as an honorable mention. 

Hunter made the Honorable Mention All-Region All-Star Soccer Team as a defender. This award is voted on by area high school coaches.

Thank you to Toyota Boshoku America, Inc. for their continued support of Project Home and the students of Covington Schools.  They collected and donated 175 Thanksgiving food bags to assist students and families in our district. 

Covington Independent Public Schools Superintendent Alvin Garrison announced two co-interim principals for Holmes High School on Wednesday.

Students lined the hallways today to show their support for the Holmes football team in the second round of the playoffs. Unfortunately, the Bulldogs exciting season came to an end with a 40-29 loss to Scott.

Congratulations Bulldogs on a great season! You make us proud.

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. 

TIME CHANGE!

Friday's football playoff game against Scott has been changed to 7 p.m. Please make note of the new time and come out to support the Bulldogs.

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

Holmes Middle School students, in coordination with Chapman Child Development Center and Holmes High School ROTC and IB History students, observed Veterans Day by honoring U.S. Navy veteran Guy Collins, a 1942 Holmes High School graduate.

Before last Friday night, Holmes football had not won a playoff game since 2009.

But Head Coach Ben Nevels has the Bulldogs in the midst of their best season in years.

And they keep on winning!

The Holmes varsity football team beat Harrison County 21-0 on Friday night to post its first playoff win since 2009. The Bulldogs will play Scott in the second round this Friday at Holmes High School at 7:30 p.m. Come out and support the Bulldogs!

Holmes High School principal Scott Hornblower requested a change in assignment Wednesday afternoon.

The sudden death of Stan Steidel on Monday will be sad news all across the state of Kentucky. For the last 29 years, he directed the All “A” Classic that provided high school athletes from Paducah to Pikeville a chance to compete for state titles in several sports.

Holmes High School sophomore Camia West will be recognized at the NAACP's Freedom Fund Gala this Saturday. Camia created a video displaying Rhetorical Strategies in her English II class with Mr. Beiersdorfer.

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.

The Covington Board of Education reviewed a summer program known as Kings Leadership Program, which included eleven boys.

Holmes football teams haven’t had much to celebrate since winning back-to-back district titles in 2009 and 2010, but happy days are here again for the Bulldogs. On Friday, Holmes players were literally jumping for joy after defeating Scott, 50-36, to finish on top in the Class 4A, District 6 standings.

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.

Students from Holmes High School in Covington worked on an interactive display to coincide with last weekend's massive BLINK light and art show event in the city and in Cincinnati. 

The students' work was showcased at 12th and Holman streets in Covington on Friday and Saturday evening.

John G. Carlisle Annual Bully-Free Parade will take place on Friday, October 18 at 9 a.m. Parents and guardians are invited to walk in the parade with their 3rd, 4th or 5th grade student! Please make sure your student has returned their signed permission form. All Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade students will remain on campus to watch the parade and cheer. The parade route is as follows

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.

No school enjoys a more loyal and proud body of alumni than Holmes High School. The alumni contribute significantly to our city, state and nation. The Covington Education Foundation will honor five outstanding graduates at its annual Hall of Honors celebration on October 9. We will highlight each nominee in the coming days.

No school enjoys a more loyal and proud body of alumni than Holmes High School. The alumni contribute significantly to our city, state and nation. The Covington Education Foundation will honor five outstanding graduates at its annual Hall of Honors celebration on October 9. We will highlight each nominee in the coming days.

No school enjoys a more loyal and proud body of alumni than Holmes High School. The alumni contribute significantly to our city, state and nation. The Covington Education Foundation will honor five outstanding graduates at its annual Hall of Honors celebration on October 9. We will highlight each nominee in the coming days.

No school enjoys a more loyal and proud body of alumni than Holmes High School. The alumni contribute significantly to our city, state and nation. The Covington Education Foundation will honor five outstanding graduates at its annual Hall of Honors celebration on October 9. We will highlight each nominee in the coming days.

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.

Homecoming 2019 was a success.  Students enjoyed spirit week, a pep rally complete with a staff vs. students flag football game, followed by a parade, the football game, and a dance.  Holmes seniors Jamir Ruff and Deara Stowers were crowned Homecoming King and Queen during halftime of the game. 

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.

Holmes Middle School 6th graders attended an NFL Play 60 event hosted by the Cincinnati Bengals and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Students got to meet current Bengals players, do various football drills and activities on the field in Paul Brown Stadium, and meet the cheerleaders. 

They did an amazing job and really showed their Bulldog Pride!

Holmes junior slot back Tayquan Calloway joined the list of the state’s leading scorers in football last week when he got five touchdowns and a two-point conversion in his team’s 58-6 win over Owen County.

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.

Amber Lowe and Mel Tackett, Holmes graduates and employees of the Crescent Springs Home Depot, are responsible for what started out as a store event but turned into a huge community project.

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.

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

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. 

Holmes High School has a new band director. 

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

It was a great night of learning and fun during the third session of the Born Learning Communities workshop Tuesday night at Eastside Neighborhood Early Childhood Education Center. 

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.
 

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.

Latonia students in the Herbmania program will be selling flowers and plants Friday, June 14,  5 to 7 p.m., and Saturday,  June 15, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
 

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

Alissa Brown, who coached the Holmes Junior Varsity Girls basketball this past season, is now the head coach of the varsity Lady Bulldogs Basketball team.
 

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.

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!

Holmes High School is rolling out the red carpet to shine a spotlight on students and teams who excel in academics, athletics and service.  
  

Congratulations to Holmes High School seniors Molly Morgan and Destinee Matthews for their recognition at the Excellence in Education Celebration this week.

A huge THANK YOU goes to The Motz Corporation who built a five-sided turf soccer court on the Holmes campus as part of their Service Day 2019. The court is located in the tennis area of campus near Madison Avenue.

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

Congratulations to Holmes High School SkillsUSA students on a great week at the state competition.

Holmes Middle School students and staff members are participating in a 30-day kindness challenge. Each staff member is wearing a button that says either Be, Say, or Ask.

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.

Students at James E. Biggs Early Childhood Education Center enjoyed hearing from Kentucky State Rep. Buddy Wheatley, who read from books that contained one of his favorite topics - firefighters.

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.


Congratulations to Holmes High School Lady Bulldog Kamari Graham on being named a Division II ALL-Conference honoree in basketball.

Stephen Lickert, an award-winning high school football player and coach, will be one of six inductees into the Northern Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame during a ceremony at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Villa Hills Civic Club that is open to the public.

Superintendent Alvin Garrison was one of the panelists at the Community and Restorative Justice Conference

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

Congratulations to Holmes track stars Vanity Ingram (9th Grade), JB Hoskins (12th grade), and Ja Nia Johnson (7th grade).

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.

Congratulations to Holmes High School junior Luke Richter, who placed first in the SkillsUSA regional welding competition. Luke will advance to the state competition in Louisville in April. Good luck, Luke!

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

Congratulations to Ja'Maja Spencer for being chosen for the Youth of the Year Award through the Boys and Girls Club.

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!

Every student at John G. Carlisle received four free books thanks to The Scripps Foundation, WCPO - 9 On Your Side, and Scholastic Books.

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” - Dr. Seuss.

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! 

The Tom Ellis Athletic Memorial Foundation announced that it will again be hosting the Covington Public Schools Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony and celebration for the seventh year in a row.

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.

Please vote for Holmes High School's Quantez Calloway and Kamari Graham as Player of the Week and Diontae Rone as Wrestler of the Week.

Vote here

Congratulations to Holmes senior Diontae Rone on becoming the Bulldogs' first Regional Champion in wrestling since 2007.

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

Kentucky’s Commissioner of Agriculture didn’t know what to expect upon his visit Monday to the Herbmania and Urban Garden at Latonia Elementary School. Commissioner Ryan Quarles left in    awe..

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 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.

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,

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.

Holmes High School's baseball and softball teams received an early boost to the season yesterday with a large donation of equipment.

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.

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.

The 1978 state championship basketball game between Holmes High School and Shelby County is still one of the most talked about basketball games in the commonwealth of Kentucky - mostly because of a non-goaltending call that took place late in the game. A picture that ran in newspapers throughout the state clearly shows the Shelby County player’s arm extended through the basketball’s rim, his hand rejecting the ball. It was goaltending, but the refs did not call it.

Remember the worst "no goaltending call" in the history of Kentucky basketball?

A newly-elected member to the Covington Board of Education was sworn in, as the board said goodbye to one of its long time members.

 

"You are not defined by the wrong you have done or the wrong that has been done to you. You are one of a kind. You are unique. There will never be another you."

This year, employees bought, wrapped and delivered presents for 30 children at the James E. Biggs Early Childhood Center, along with a dozen or so coats. The preschool is located on Scott Boulevard a stone’s throw from the Company 1 Fire Station.

 

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!

Shiela Jackson and Alexis Saunders represented Holmes High School's Outdoor Adventure Club at the Cincinnati re-launch party on Wednesday.  The students  met with donors and party goers to discuss their experience with the Outdoor Adventure Club program.  Holmes High School is a partner school with Outdoor Adventure Clubs of Greater Cincinnati.  They provide outdoor education opportunities for students in urban settings.  Students attend monthly outdoor "adventure" activities on Saturdays such as kayaking, biking, orienteering, skiing, and hiking.  Students from various schools throughout Greater Cincinnati also attend.

Congratulations to the Holmes Girls Basketball team who defeated Cooper Wednesday night on a last second shot by Kamari Graham. Way to go Lady Bulldogs.

The Marine Corps Reserves from I & I Cincinnati held a toy drive at Paul Brown Stadium in advance of the Bengals vs. Broncos football game.

Fans attending the game were encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy, or donate to the Marine Corps Reserves, Toys-for-Tots.

Holmes High School hosted its first wrestling invitational, the Bulldog Battle for the Bone on Saturday. The Bulldogs finished seventh in the eleven team tournament including three top 15 Kentucky programs and top teams from Cincinnati and West Virginia.

Congratulations to the Covington Schools communications department for receiving awards for the district website, Facebook page and photography/videography communications. 

Debra Vance, Director of Communications and Shawn Wood, Media Specialist received the awards today at the annual meeting of the Kentucky Schools Public Relations Association.

On Saturday, December 1 Holmes High School will host its first wrestling invitational, the "Bulldog Battle for the Bone," an 11-team tournament. The tournament will feature three top fifteen Kentucky teams - #6 Louisville Male, #11 Scott and #15 Conner. A team from Parkersburg WV, who finished third in the state last year will also be present.

Basketball season begins this week for the Holmes High School varsity and junior varsity boys and girls teams.

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.

Jeff Haney from Holmes High School received the highest honor given to PLTW teachers – PLTW Outstanding Teacher – at the Project Lead The Way national conference – PLTW Summit.

Students at Glenn O. Swing Elementary School can shop for clothes and shoes during the school day and not have to pay for anything, thanks to the nonprofit organization called the Care Closet.

The school and Care Closet held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday to officially announce the partnership.  

Six Holmes High School students attended Young Women LEAD, a one-day leadership conference at Northern Kentucky University, on Friday, November 2, 2018.

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

Congratulations to Sarah Graman , who was honored yesterday at the Kentucky Association for Psychology in the Schools (KAPS) Fall Conference in Louisville.

Students from Holmes High School participated in the STEM+H Conference at Northern Kentucky University on Friday, October 26, 2018

The students participated in a large group presentation from Wendy Rice, Cincinnati Zoo Animal Caretaker and Fiona Care Team Member, followed by smaller breakout sessions. The students were then provided lunch and finished the day with a presentation from a panel of NKU students majoring in areas of STEM.

Congratulations to Holmes Middle School's 8th-grade football team - Northern Kentucky Middle School Athletic Association Champions!

The Bulldogs beat Sharp Middle School 27-6 to win the title. This team won the championship last year as 7th graders as well. The future is bright for the Bulldogs.

HMS 8th Grade Football Team plays Sharp Middle School in the Championship Game. 

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

Covington Independent Public Schools will  close for Fall Break  on Thursday, October 4 and Friday, October 5. School will resume on Monday, October 8.
 

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. 

The Annie Hargraves Park, Basil Lewis Park, and the new George Stone basketball court is reopening on Saturday, September 22,

More than 300 recent Northern Kentucky high school graduates have been named Senator Jeff Green Scholars by the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA).  Congratulations Jada Cummings, Chase Dietz, Trey Egan, Joseph Morgan.

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. 

Holmes High School students got a lesson on self-worth when they heard from Erin Gruwell, an English teacher from Long Beach, California.

Danielle Wells, an assistant on the Holmes girls basketball coaching staff last season, has been put in charge of the highly successful Bulldogs program.

Wells was hired to replace Greg Ash, who resigned as Holmes head coach after just one season. His team was 9th Region runner-up and finished with a 21-8 record.

The Holmes High School varsity football team will be back in action tonight.  The Bulldogs will play the home opener against Walton Verona at 7 p.m. at Tom Ellis Stadium.  The Bulldogs enter the game with a 0-1 record after a tough loss to Bishop Brossart last week. 

Senior McKeem Robinson and the rest of the Bulldogs hope to see you at the game cheering the team to victory.

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.



Students at John G. Carlisle were treated to a performance by UniverSoul Circus. The group is in town celebrating 25 years of hip-hop under the big top.

The students enjoyed dance and acrobatic acts by performers from all over the globe. UniverSoul Circus will present its entire show at MidPointe Crossing in Cincinnati through September 4.

Tickets are available at www.universoulcircus.com/tix.

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

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.

Holmes High School in Covington is one of the oldest public schools in Kentucky. It has had 150 graduating classes. Class of 2018 had 144 students.

A few days ago, Stanley Niceley finished off his high school football career playing in the St. Elizabeth Healthcare East-West All-Star Game. At halftime, he received the Chris Vier Courage Award for overcoming those obstacles he faced to become an exceptional student-athlete. Niceley was on the straight “A” honor roll at Holmes and received the Most Outstanding Student Award in this year’s graduating class. He will attend the University of Louisville on an academic scholarship and plans to major in business management before applying to dental school.

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.

The Covington Board of Education may lower the number of credits required for high school graduation from 24 to 22.

Holmes High School principal Scott Hornblower and instructional coach Tony Magner spoke to the board at its most recent meeting, reporting that the school's site-based decision-making council recommended a six-period day for the high school next year, instead of seven.

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 Holmes High School Lady Bulldog Tyrah Englemon. Tyrah accepted a full scholarship to play basketball at Lindsey Wilson College.

A Covington police officer will soon be assigned permanently to the campus of Holmes High School and Middle School. 

The Covington City Commission voted 5-0 Wednesday to approve an agreement between the City and Covington Independent Public Schools authorizing the officer's assignment and defining his role.

After weeks of working with the Department of Justice, city commissioners agreed Tuesday to move forward with an agreement to station a police officer in Holmes Middle and Holmes High School.

In March, the Covington Independent School Board voted unanimously to enter into an agreement with the Covington Police Department to provide an officer for the Holmes campus for the school year for $80,000, which was necessary after the county sheriff pulled out of its agreement with the school for the year.

Congratulations to Holmes Middle School Track and Field Team on hosting the first middle school track meet ever in the Holmes new sports complex. The Bulldogs finished in second place with 24 medals.

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.

Three Holmes High School students have been selected to the Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program. Majdaah Salaah, Catherine Brown, and Julio Ramirez, juniors at Holmes, will participate in the competitive summer class that provides academic and personal growth through the balance of a strong liberal arts program with a full co-curricular and residential life experience. 

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.

This coming school year, students at Holmes Middle School will be able to take computer science classes and learn to create their own computer applications, thanks to a $20,000 grant from Project Lead The Way and the Verizon Foundation.

Holmes Middle is one of 72 schools across the country receiving part of a $3 million grant that is designed to increase students’ access to computer science curriculum and help students develop the in-demand knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the rapidly advancing, technology-based economy.

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

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.

When a coworker suddenly collapsed and went unconscious at Holmes High School, special education teacher Denise Henson, responded with Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) which helped to save her coworker’s life.   Mrs. Henson’s heroic effort hasn't gone unnoticed.  At the Covington City Commission meeting Tuesday night, David J. Geiger, Covington Emergency Medical Services Director, presented Mrs. Henson with the Covington Fire Department’s “Citizen Lifesaver Award.”  The award recognizes citizens who perform the necessary skills to save a life, said Geiger who praised Mrs. Henson for her skills and her willingness to help. 

Brad Carr will resume his boys basketball coaching career at the high school where it all began for him.

Carr, a 1987 graduate of Holmes High School, was named head coach of the Bulldogs on Monday. This is the first time that a Holmes graduate and former player has been hired for that position.

Holmes Middle School wrestler, DaShaun Stevenson, finished with a 4-3 record at National Duals beating wrestlers from Illinois, Nebraska and Indiana. Team Kentucky won the bronze division with a 36-34 comeback victory.

Congratulations DaShaun!

Congratulations to the Covington Public Schools Athletic Hall of Fame 2018 inductees!

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.

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

Congratulations to Holmes High School sophomore Andre Willoughby for his winning design of a Bulldog superhero to fight substance abuse. 

The Kenton County Alliance sponsored a design and creativity contest for students to incorporate their high school mascots into superheroes.

Andre was one of five students from Kenton County recognized. The superheroes will be featured on banners displayed around schools and communities.

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.

Congratulations Lady Bulldogs - Ninth Region Runners-up! Congratulations to Laila Johnson and Tyrah Englemon on being named to the Ninth Region All-Tournament Team.

On to the finals! The Lady Bulldogs beat Conner 55-43. Pre-sale tickets for Sunday's 2 p.m. championship game will be available in the Fieldhouse on Saturday 9-11 a.m. Go Lady Bulldogs!

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.

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

Despite a slow first half, two-time defending 9th Region champion Holmes’ defensive tenacity proved to be the deciding factor in a 51-37 victory over St. Henry in a regional first-round game on Monday at BB&T arena.

Tickets will go on sale from 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday at Holmes High School for the Lady Bulldogs vs Conner game.  The teams will play at 7 p.m.,  Friday, at Northern Kentucky University.   

Holmes senior guard Laila Johnson made the game-winning shot, but defense was the deciding factor in her team’s  34-33 win over Holy Cross in the championship game of the 35th District girls’ basketball tournament on Thursday at Notre Dame.

Limiting Holy Cross to just one point during the final 11 minutes put the Bulldogs in position to win the game in the closing seconds. Johnson drove into the lane and arched a shot over the outstretched arms of a 6-foot-5 defender that dropped though the net to give her team the one-point lead with 4.5 seconds remaining.

Three teams from Covington schools were honored by the Covington Board of Education Thursday night for their recent successes.  The Holmes Middle School Wrestling Team was recognized for its most successful season in program history.  The team celebrated a number of accomplishments, including four members of the team competing in the Regional Finals for the first time; six Bulldogs qualified for Middle School State, the most ever to qualify. At the state tournament, the team had two fifth places finishers, Taejuan Huff and Thomas Long.   Dashaun Stevenson was a state champion, only the second state wrestling champion  in Holmes history.   As a team, the Bulldogs earned its first trophy ever at state, placing fourth in the school division and 11^th among teams.

Attention Latonia Elementary School Families
 

Latonia Elementary School will be closed at 2 p.m. today, Thursday, February 22, because of a water main break.  Please know, first and foremost, that our number one concern is the safety and health of our students. Parents may begin to pick up students any time after 1 p.m.

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 Holmes High School SBDM Budget Meeting scheduled for today, Tuesday, February 20, has been rescheduled for Tuesday, February 27, at 3:15.

Mr. Jerry Boyd Moore, former Holmes High School student enlisted in the service in October of 1969 until October of 1973.

He enlisted in the Navy as an Airman then promoted to Third Class Petty Officer.

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.

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.

WCPO

LATONIA, Ky. - Fifth-graders get real-life lessons in growing plants and selling them in Bob Runyan's economics class at Latonia Elementary.

Every student has a job to do.

"I keep track of the water temps, the PH levels," says Carsan Hehman as he shows off the garden. "Basil, cilantro, chives, parsley…"

COVINGTON, Ky. — WLWT-TV

When Ethan Workman tried out for the Holmes basketball team in seventh grade, he had a pretty good idea he wasn't going to make it.

"Honestly, at that moment it was like, I do not have the skills to do this," Ethan said.

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.

RCN NEWSDESK

Ten local high schools received $20,000 worth of baseball and softball equipment from the Reds Community Fund and St. Elizabeth Healthcare.

An event was held Wednesday at Town & Country Athletic Center in Wilder.

Holmes High School boys’ varsity basketball coach, Mike Listerman, reached a milestone that many coaches just dream about – he won his 300^th game as a head coach. The Bulldogs beat Bishop Brossart on January 18 to put Coach Listerman over the threshold.

“Reaching 300 is certainly a milestone, a certain level of excellence, and yet it is only a number. As a coach, you work to win the next game. After you win that game, it's about the next game. It is always about ‘the next game,’” he said. “Just one game at a time, then one day you are at 300, and you're going ‘Wow, have I been at it this long?’”

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.

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.

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

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 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.

Holmes High School senior Jada Cummings is the recipient of the QuestBridge Scholarship which is valued at more than $280,000 over four years. The QuestBridge College Match is a national program that pairs high achieving, low income high school seniors with full scholarships to the top colleges in the nation. In October, Jada, was notified she was a one of 5,759 finalists chosen from 15,606 applicants. She has been notified that she is among the 918 winners.

It's been a good week for the Holmes varsity basketball teams so far.

The Lady Bulldogs started their season with a win by beating Boone County Monday night 73-53. It was a big night for the four seniors. Laila Johnson had a double-double with 29 points and 12 rebounds. Tyrah Englemon scored 15 points and Megan Beckett scored 14. Latavia Kieth had 10 rebounds. 

Seven families of students at Covington's Transformational Learning Center will enjoy a Thanksgiving feast this week thanks to staff members of the school and Children's Home of Northern Kentucky. Toyota and United Methodist Ministries also made donations to the cause.

The families received a turkey and all the fixings, side items, drinks, and dessert. Happy Thanksgiving!

The Holmes Middle School Band will host its Fall Concert on Thursday, November 2 at 7 p.m. in the Jack Moreland Auditorium at the high school. 

This year's beginner band is the largest in several years with 72 students. Please come out and support the Bulldogs.

The Holmes High School Book Club is reading Angie Thomas' "The Hate U Give," a novel about an ordinary girl in extraordinary circumstances addressing issues of racism and police violence with intelligence, heart, and unflinching honesty. 

Over 3.2 million students are victims of bullying each year, and 64% of youth who are bullied do not report the incidents. The percentage of individuals who have experienced cyberbullying has doubled over the past few years, and 74% of LGBTQ students admit being bullied because of their sexual orientation. More than half of bullying situations (57%) stop when a peer intervenes on behalf of the student being bullied, yet bystanders of bullying tend to succumb to what they believe is peer pressure to support bullying behavior and fear of becoming the victim.

Congratulations to Holmes High School senior Jada Cummings, who was recently selected as a finalist for the QuestBridge National College Match, which provides high-achieving high school students with full-tuition scholarships to some of the best colleges in the country. Jada is one of 5,000 finalists chosen from more than 15,000 applicants.

Taft Museum of Art and their Duncanson Artist-in-Residence visited the after-school program at Glenn O. Swing. Stafford Berry, who is serving his eighth year as the Associate Professor of Dance and Black Studies at Denison University in Columbus, Ohio, taught the students rhythmic claps and routines. 

Senior Night 2017

Senior football players, cheerleaders, cross country runners, and band members were recognized before the Holmes vs. Scott football game Friday.

The Holmes Middles School 6th and 7th grade football team is the Northern Kentucky Middle School Champion. The Bulldogs beat Twenhofel in the championship game 19-13. Javier Ward, Emaryion Arnold, and Ein Elmer scored for the Bulldogs to lead them to the title.

After going 3-4 during the season and 3-2 in division play, the Bulldogs revenged their two division loses by beating Campbell County in the first round of the playoffs and Twenhofel in the championship game. Holmes was the #2 seed in the playoffs.

It’s a day Latonia Elementary students and Carlos Dunlap won’t soon forget. Dunlap is a defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals and he is tackling bullying one AFC city at a time. 

Students in the after school program at Latonia read the book “Malik, the Difference Maker” by Cincinnati author LaMarque Ward. The book is about a young boy who was bullied and how he handled the situation. Dunlap and Ward met with the students to discuss the book and how it can relate to their own situations.

The 2016-17 Holmes High School yearbooks are here! If you are interested in purchasing a yearbook for $45, contact Shawn Wood at shawn.wood@covington.kyschools.us.

Several yearbooks from previous years are also available.

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.

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

“We are proud of the improvements in some of our schools,’’ said Superintendent Alvin Garrison. “Covington saw major gains at Holmes Middle School and John G. Carlisle Elementary School. The middle school improved its Gap score by 52 points, its Achievement score 7.9 points and Growth score by 10 points from the 2016. The percentage of students scoring proficient and distinguished in Reading and Math was higher in 2017 than in any of the six previous years of the current K-PREP assessment.

“We are extremely pleased with John G.’s progress,’’ Garrison continued. “The average score of Achievement, Gap and Growth for 2017 was 65.5, an increase of 13.2 points from last year.  Glenn O. Swing Elementary continues to be one of the top performing elementary schools in the state of Kentucky. Latonia Elementary also continued to improve its level of excellence from the previous year. 

“In some areas, we made significant gains,’’ Garrison said. “We will celebrate our successes and get back to work in those areas where we did not get the results we wanted.’’

Congratulations to the Holmes Chess Dogs who earned the 1st Place team trophy at the 2nd Annual Covington Classic Chess Competition.

Team members include Ashton Weidle (4th place individual), Adam Mason, Nathan Parlier (1st place Rising Star), Majdaah Salaah, Trey Gaither, Anthony Thomas, Robert Moore, Dakota Lake, and Parker Floyd. The team is coached by Holmes Librarian, Renata Kennison.

Holmes High School senior Jada Cummings was recognized as a finalist in the STLP Video Documentary Contest for "Holmes High School - A Basketball Tradition." The contest was part of the KHSAA Centennial Celebration this past summer. The video will be archived in the new Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame which opened in Elizabethtown in July.

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

The City of Covington hired four students from Holmes High School to study water quality, stormwater and green infrastructure. The students will present their Licking River Greenway and Trails project proposal and discuss how Covington can address stormwater issues through green infrastructure.

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.

Brighton Center announces that a $25,000 grant award from the Elsa Heisel Sule Foundation will allow for operations of its Youth Leadership Development program with Case Manager activities for the families at the Holmes Junior High School in Covington.

Youth Leadership Development (YLD) is an after school program for youth ages 11-15 to build leadership skills and conduct community service projects.

"Talent is cheap, but passion is priceless."

That is the message Eric and Chad Sandy stressed to the Holmes Middle School eighth graders on Friday. The Sandy twins graduated from Holmes in 2004 and now work at the Nike Corporation in Portland, Oregon.

Amazon, partnering with Holmes Middle School, made a $10,000 donation today to work in our STEM classrooms. Among the items are two 3D printers! Thank you Amazon!

It has been a weekend of firsts - first kickoff, first football game, first soccer game, first goal, first win.

The Bulldogs stayed close to Bishop Brossart in the first football game on the new turf field, but the Mustangs were just too much for the Dogs and went on to win 13-0. The Holmes soccer team, however, blanked Covington Latin with a 5-0 victory in the first soccer game in the new stadium.

August 24, 2017 marked an historic day for high school sports at Holmes High School. The ribbon was cut and the new stadium was opened.

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!

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.

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 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.

 

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. 

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.
 

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


 

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.

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.     

Covington Superintendent Alvin Garrison delivered the keynote address to more than 250 Kentucky high school student ambassadors Saturday at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar at Transylvania University.

The ambassadors included Holmes High School students Tatiana Phillips and Molly Morgan.  In addition, three volunteers from Covington attended the seminar – Brian Benito, a 2017 Holmes High School graduate and Glenn O. Swing Elementary teachers, Karissa Pickens and Elizabeth Bravo.  

 

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.

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.

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.

After leading the Holmes High School Boys’ Soccer Team in its most successful season in Bulldog history, Tom Haggard is resigning as head coach.

The team finished the fall campaign 11-6-2 and set school records for most wins, fewest losses, most goals scored and fewest goals allowed in a season.

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.‘’

Steven Gregory, a junior at Holmes High School, has been accepted to the elite Senior Leadership Capstone Camp in Missouri Military Academy in Mexico, Missouri. Only 100 of the 32,000 Marine Corps JROTC members nationwide were selected to attend the camp in June. 

"It's a huge accomplishment for me, especially being a kid from Covington, to get to travel across the country to exercise my leadership and use what I have learned in ROTC," said Steven, a cadet in the Holmes High School Marine Corps JROTC program.

Congratulations to Holmes High School seniors Kerry Nolasco and Josh Lemus on signing a letter of intent to play soccer at Spalding University.

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

Sign up now for the Lady Bulldog Summer Basketball Camp.

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. 
 

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.”

Eighty-four Holmes High School seniors signed a letter of intent with one of 26 colleges, universities, or the military. The Holmes Class of 2017 will be well represented at higher education institutions such as Thomas More College, the University of Louisville, American University, and the United States Marine Corps.

The Holmes Girls' Fastpitch Softball Team had multiple objectives coming into the 2017 season, established from the first non-mandatory practice in September, by new Head Coach John Ellis. Good grades, discipline, and learning how to play the game the right way are a few of those main objectives.

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.

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.

Congratulations to Jada Cummings, a junior at Holmes High School, who was recently honored with the prestigious QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship. The QuestBridge College Prep Scholars Program gives outstand