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In Worthington Schools, “Be Kind to Kids” doesn’t mean lowering expectations. It means pairing high expectations with the support, encouragement, and belief students need to meet them.

That’s the Mentor Mindset, and Karmyn Metzger embodies it every day.

AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM SUPERINTENDENT TRENT BOWERS AND THE WORTHINGTON SCHOOL BOARD

Worthington Schools is proud to recognize four outstanding students named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists!

In his latest blog, Superintendent Trent Bowers highlights Laurie Barr, a longtime math teacher at Thomas Worthington High School, whose daily interactions with students embody this philosophy.

From greeting every student at her classroom door to reminding them that “You can do hard things,” Laurie demonstrates how meaningful connections and high standards go hand in hand.

What does it really mean to “Be Kind to Kids”?

It doesn’t mean lowering expectations or avoiding hard conversations. It means believing in our students and giving them the support they need to meet high expectations.

Superintendent Trent Bowers shares the story of Dave Murphy, a Worthington educator who has modeled this “Mentor Mindset” throughout his career—holding students accountable while always treating them with dignity, respect, and care.

When Worthington Kilbourne High School opened in 1991, an artist painted a picture of the new school. More than 30 years later, those prints are still proudly displayed in WKHS offices.

As the new Thomas Worthington High School neared completion, we wanted to create that same kind of lasting tradition, and there was no better artist than Bridget Taylor.