Would you be interested in helping students at Independence Local Schools with career exploration?  We are looking to connect with alumni who are willing to share their career journeys, participate in career panels, or offer job-shadowing opportunities to help students learn about different careers and pathways after high school. If you are interested in giving back by sharing your experiences and insights with the next generation of Independence students, please take a few minutes to complete this survey. (Google hosted.)

Completing the form does not commit you to participating in any particular activity. It simply helps us connect alumni with opportunities that match their interests and availability. Thank you for staying connected and supporting our students!

Rachel Barbiaux, MBA
Career Specialist
Cuyahoga Valley Career Center

Gertrude T. Schmidt, “Trudy”, passed away peacefully on Aug 23, 2026. Gertrude is the mother of alumni Gwendolyn ’68 , Martin ’71 & Michael ’77. She was instrumental in starting the nursery school in town, starred in many shows at the Independence Players and headed up St. Michael’s PTU for many years. A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday, August 31st. The Funeral Mass will be held the following day,Tuesday, September 1st. Click here or more details and the full obituary.

February 18, 2003
June 23, 2026

Jason C. Edwards

A talented musician and performer, he will be remembered for his kindness, intelligence, and unique sense of humor.

Jason grew up in Independence, Ohio, where he graduated from Independence High School in 2021. He was active in marching band, concert band, vocal ensemble, and drama club. Jason performed in Independence community theater and enjoyed serving as a band camp counselor.

Jason will be remembered for his ability to connect with crowds and individuals alike, whether friends, family, or strangers. Above all, his powerful and distinctive voice, immense kindness, intelligence, unique sense of humor, and big, beautiful heart will be missed.

Family and friends may gather for a Celebration of Life visitation on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at Vodrazka Golubski Deliberato Funeral Care, 6505 Brecksville Rd., Independence, from 4 – 8 p.m. Funeral service Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at St. Michael Church, 6912 Chestnut Rd., Independence, Ohio at 12 p.m

The I.H.S. Alumni Association Breakfast in the Park is open to all I.H.S. alumni, faculty, students, family, and friends. The event will include great food, raffles, door prizes, and camaraderie! This casual event has become a popular place to catch up with former classmates.

• Date: Sunday, August 9, 2026
• Time: 9 – 11:30 AM
• Tickets:
• Adults: $10
• IHS Students: $5
• Other Students & Children: FREE

Menu: Tony DiGeronimo’s (‘75) famous waffles, sausage, pastry, fresh fruit, coffee, and juice

Location: Kiwanis Pavilion, Elmwood Park 6363 Selig Drive, Independence, Ohio 44131

Reservations are not required and all tickets may be paid for at the door. However, if groups, such as Class Reunions, are planning to attend, please notify Bob Wagner (‘66):

Email: goawagner@aol.com

Phone: 757-202-7750 (call or text)

We are looking for volunteers to help at the Alumni Tent at Home Days on Friday, August 7, and Saturday, August 8! The gig is simple: greet people, have them sign the guestbook, give out alumni stickers, collect membership dues and sell raffle and brunch tickets. Shifts are less than two hours and available on Friday and Saturday. If all shifts are filled you can still come and help out as there’s always people to greet and memories to share!

Sign Up Here