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Kids Astrology: Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Virgo Sign

Happy birthday to your Virgo! This year, they’ll be curious about the earth and the stars. Celebrate at the Ritter Planetarium and Brooks Observatory in Toledo,where they can explore the wonders of the night sky and learn about constellations. Consider a Virgo themed cake with intricate details and earthy tones.

A perfect gift could be an educational science kit that encourages their love for
learning and discovery. This birthday will be a wonderful opportunity for your Virgo child to delve into their interests and enjoy a memorable celebration.

Letter From the Editor: A Fresh Season of Family Fun

Mary Genson and her husband Noah dressed up as peanut butter and jelly for Halloween.

The beginning of September marks the end of warm, care-free summer days and the start of busy school schedules. Luckily, fall comes with its own supply of family-fun. Growing up in Holland, we always went to MacQueen Orchards for apples and fall treats. We also used to love the Toledo Zoo’s Halloween events—activities I hope my daughter will enjoy soon.

It’s time to start thinking about costumes and make a plan for what trick-or-treats, corn mazes and pumpkin patches your family is going to visit this year. There are so many fun events and activities during this time of year for families. Our Halloween Haunts and Happenings Guide in this issue rounds up the Toledo area’s family-friendly events for fall fun.

As the school year kicks off, families can also explore a variety of educational options throughout the region. From public and private schools and other options, the Toledo area offers something for every student. Check out our Education Guide for a closer look at the resources available in our community.

Make sure to enter our giveaway online for a chance to win unique, STEAM inspired activities for kids. Visit Toledoparent.com to read online exclusive content for parents and families.

Best,

Mary Genson
Assignment Editor

2025 Education Guide

Explore Toledo’s best educational programs, including early childhood education, music, dance and specialized learning support. Each of these programs offers a nurturing environment where children can build confidence, develop skills and spark creativity, helping kids grow and thrive on their unique learning journeys. Find the perfect fit for your child and watch them succeed.

Forté Music School

3208 W Sylvania Ave, Toledo
419-471-2100
fortemusicandarts.com

Forté Music School offers flexible and personalized music education for students of all ages and skill levels. With over 50 experienced instructors and a large, well-equipped facility, Forté provides lessons on a wide variety of instruments—all in one convenient location. Their flexible scheduling, including availability seven days a week, allows students to fit music lessons into even the busiest lifestyles. Forté’s month-to-month enrollment means there’s no long-term commitment, making it easy to try out lessons to assure the right fit. Students benefit from tailored instruction that matches their individual goals, whether they’re beginners or advanced musicians. Performance opportunities are an important part of the experience, with two free Student Showcases each year giving students a chance to share their progress with family and friends. Forté Music School provides an inspiring and nurturing space where students are guided to build their skills, express creativity and cultivate a lasting appreciation for music.

Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts

4747 Heatherdowns Blvd.
(419) 471-0049
artstoledo.com/tapa-education

The Toledo Center for Live Arts is a vibrant home for youth education in music and dance, bringing together the Toledo Ballet, Toledo Symphony School of Music, and Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestras. The Toledo Ballet offers year-round training in ballet, jazz, tap, and modern dance, with performance opportunities in full-length productions accompanied by live music from the Toledo Symphony. The Toledo Symphony School of Music provides private lessons and group instruction for young musicians starting as early as age three, including foundational classes like Musically Me for toddlers. The Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestras serve advanced student musicians through ensemble rehearsals, coaching, and concerts that build artistry and collaboration. Under one roof, these programs create an inclusive and inspiring environment where children can explore, grow, and connect through the performing arts. To learn more, visit artstoledo.com.

Valentine Theatre

410 Adams Street, Toledo
419-242-2787
valentinetheatre.com

The Valentine Theatre’s Gretchen A. Zyndorf Sensory Friendly Family Series offers productions that are both entertaining and educational for all ages. This season includes “Faithful Friends,” a lively introduction to Shakespeare; “Mutts Gone Nuts – Unleashed,” a showcase of talented rescue dogs and “Dinosaur World Live, an interactive adventure where prehistoric creatures come to life on stage. Each performance is sensory-friendly and designed to spark imagination while keeping audiences engaged from start to finish. Tickets are affordably priced at $20 for adults and $15 for children. Full details and schedules are available at valentinetheatre.com.

Children’s Theatre Workshop

3106 Lagrange Street
419-244-5061
ctwtoledo.org

Children’s Theatre Workshop (CTW) is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) arts organization based in Toledo that is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive space for young people to explore the performing arts. Serving children and teens ages 3 through 18, CTW provides theatre education that goes far beyond the stage. Students gain experience in acting, production, and collaboration, while also developing important life skills such as confidence, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. Each season, the organization presents a series of productions that give youth the chance to shine in front of live audiences. In addition, CTW offers year-round classes, summer camps, and community programs that engage students at all levels of interest and experience. Classes begin Sept. 6. Guided by a mission rooted in creativity, equity and personal growth, CTW welcomes all youth to participate, ensuring that theatre remains meaningful for every child who wishes to be involved.

Partners in Education

709 Madison Ave #310, Toledo
419-242-2122
partnerstoledo.org

Helping Students Succeed—One Partnership at a Time
Since 1994, Partners in Education (PIE) of Toledo has been bringing the community together to support student success. We believe every child deserves the chance to read, succeed and thrive—and that it takes all of us to make that happen. PIE supports students with two programs: The Mentors in Toledo Schools Literacy Program works in area schools and pairs staff and volunteers with young readers to support literacy skills. PIE’s College & Career Ready, Set, Go! helps middle and high schoolers explore their passions, build real-world skills, and imagine what’s possible after graduation. The challenges students face are real—but so is the power of community. When we show up together, we can close gaps, open doors, and change lives. Join us! Be a mentor. Be a role model. Be the reason a student believes in their future. Visit partnerstoledo.org to learn more!

Children’s Discovery Center

6450 Weatherfield Ct. Suite 3, Maumee
419-867-8570
[email protected]
childrensdiscoverycenters.com

Children’s Discovery Center (CDC) provides exceptional early childhood education across five locations in the Toledo area. Rooted in respect for students, CDC creates a warm, Christian environment where children from infancy through school age can thrive. Infants receive attentive care that encourages sensory and motor skill development in a safe space. Toddlers grow in confidence and independence through hands-on exploration and consistent routines. CDC’s preschool and Pre-K programs embrace the Reggio Emilia philosophy, tailoring learning to each child’s interests while meeting Ohio’s educational standards. CDC also offers a comprehensive Private Kindergarten Program at our Waterville location, providing families from all our locations with a full-day, academically rich curriculum in a familiar, child-centered environment. Beyond kindergarten, we offer engaging after-school programs and dynamic summer camps that promote creative problem-solving, collaboration, and social-emotional development. Transportation is available for after school care, serving children from kindergarten through 4th grade. CDC’s passionate educators and strong community partnerships work together to inspire a lifelong love of learning and discovery in every child.

Toledo Public Schools

Multiple locations
tps.org

Toledo Public Schools (TPS) provides students across the city with a strong academic foundation while fostering personal growth and community engagement. The district emphasizes preparing students for success in college, careers and life. TPS offers an array of Career Technology pathways designed to provide students with hands-on experiences and a seamless transition to college or career. These programs are typically two-year tracks for juniors and seniors, though some extend through all four years of high school, including freshmen and sophomores. TPS Career Technology students engage in specialized fields such as accounting, aviation, cosmetology, fashion marketing, HVAC and more. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, critical thinking, and professional development, preparing students for high-growth careers in demand.

Hope Learning Academy

4234 Monroe St., Toledo
419-297-6313
[email protected]

At Hope Learning Academy of Toledo, the focus is on individualized learning for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. The school’s intentionally small classes—no more than ten students per room—allow teachers to adapt instruction to fit a wide range of learning styles and provide close, personal attention. Beyond the core curriculum, Hope Learning Academy offers reading and math interventions for students who need additional support. Specialized services are also available, including dyslexia resources, social skills development and sensory integration programs. The school places strong emphasis on fostering a growth mindset, encouraging students to face challenges with confidence and celebrate progress along the way. By combining high expectations with individualized support, Hope Learning Academy provides an environment where every child is given the tools to succeed.

Educare Academy

Multiple locations
419-704-2009
[email protected]
educareacademy.com/about

Educare Academy has over 50 years of experience providing high-quality early childhood education in Toledo. They serve children from infancy through school age through a diverse range of programs, including Early Head Start and Head Start. Infants receive nurturing care from an expert team that prioritizes strong communication with families. Toddlers learn through play and crafts, developing social-emotional skills such as sharing and independence. The Pre-K curriculum prepares children for kindergarten by building early literacy, writing, pattern recognition and listening skills. School-age children benefit from before and after school care, which includes homework help, educational games, and enrichment activities. With ten Gold Rated locations, Educare provides accessible, top-quality care that supports every stage of a child’s growth.

 

Toledo School for the Arts

7713, 333 14th St # 4, Toledo
419-246-8732
ts4arts.org

Toledo School for the Arts (TSA) is a public charter school that integrates academics with intensive arts education for students in grades 6 through 12. TSA offers programs in dance, music, theatre, visual art, video and writing, providing students with opportunities to study at various levels of proficiency. The school’s curriculum emphasizes the development of creativity, discipline and collaboration, preparing students for both collegiate and professional pursuits in the arts and beyond. TSA’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its recognition as a U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon School and its consistent rating of “Excellent” by the Ohio Department of Education. The school fosters an inclusive community where individual talents are celebrated and students are encouraged to achieve their full potential.

Multisensory Mentor

937-689-0913
yourmsm.com

Multisensory Mentor offers specialized educational support using a multisensory approach designed to engage multiple senses to enhance learning and retention. This method is especially helpful for students with learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD and executive functioning challenges. By combining movement-based activities with structured lessons, Multisensory Mentor helps stimulate brain areas critical for learning while promoting active engagement. Multisensory Mentor offers programming in Foundational Learning Support, Special Education Advocacy and Academics. Services are tailored to meet each student’s unique needs, providing flexible and individualized instruction. This holistic approach not only improves academic skills but also builds confidence and lifelong learning habits. Through its comprehensive and adaptive methods, Multisensory Mentor strives to create a supportive environment where students can thrive to unlock their full potential.

STEAM Toy Giveaway

ABLE to Offer Free Legal Advice to Parents

Photo from @ablelawinc on Instagram.

As Ohio’s new education laws take effect, a Toledo nonprofit is making sure families know their rights.

Advocates for Basic Legal Equality (ABLE) will host four free Education Legal Assistance Sessions.

Free sessions

  • Tuesday, Sept. 9 from 6-8pm at The West Toledo Branch Library
  • Thursday, Sept. 11 from 10am-noon at The West Toledo Branch Library
  • Tuesday, Oct. 14 from 6-8pm at The South Toledo Branch Library
  • Thursday, Oct. 16 from 10am-noon at The South Toledo Branch Library

The sessions are open to parents, guardians and caregivers of K-12 students who want to learn more about navigating the school system and protecting their children’s rights.

Topics will include:

  • Student rights under state and federal law
  • Discipline, suspension and expulsion procedures
  • Disability and immigrant student protections
  • Advocacy tips for families
  • Updates on recent legislation, such as House Bill 206 (permanent expulsion policy) and Senate Bill 104 (restricting bathroom use for transgender students)

Parents will also have the opportunity to meet with an education attorney for free consultations following the presentations.


RELATED: Vital Health—One Child and Family at a Time


“Suspension and expulsion often impact our communities with disabilities more than other students,” said Jennifer Martinez, supervising attorney for ABLE. “We want parents to understand how these new policies may affect their children.”

The library partnered with ABLE to provide space for the sessions. “When it comes to the education system, it can often feel overwhelming,” said Allison Fiscus, adult services coordinator for the Toledo Lucas County Public Library. “ABLE is here saying, ‘No question’s too big, no question’s too small.’”

Families needing further assistance can apply for free legal help through the Legal Aid Line at (888) 534-1432 (Monday–Friday, 9am–3pm) or online at LegalAidLine.org.