Spring 2010 Chalkboard - College of Education

UNC CHARLOTTE

d r o a b k l a h C e Th Volume 7, Issue 1 April 22, 2010

Donald Barringer Speaks to UNCC Fellows Amber Gillespie Sophomore On February 25, 2010, UNCC Teaching Fellows were given the opportunity to hear from Donald Barringer, Teacher Advisor to Governor Bev Perdue. Barringer, a North Carolina Teaching Fellow alumnus, taught elementary school for seven years, was an adjunct instructor at North Carolina Central University, and was President of the Durham Association of Educators. In 2002, he was the Chancel-

lor‟s Trailblazer Award recipient. Donald is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and the Durham NAACP. Teaching Fellows had the

privilege of hearing from Barringer about the Governor‟s Education Agenda

entitled Career and College: Ready, Set, Go as well as the North Carolina Professional Teaching Standards. He took the opportunity to share advice that he has derived from his personal experiences. Career and College: Ready, Set, Go! In her education agenda, Governor Perdue states that “Every kid—no matter where he or she lives in North Carolina— must graduate from high school with what it really takes to succeed in a career, in a two- or four-year college or in technical training.”

UNCC‟s Woman of the Year! Kara Pickeral Freshman On March 19, Cassandra Haran, a junior Teaching Fellow, was awarded the prestigious title of Woman of the Year. She was nominated by her peers and ex-

ceeded the requirements to fill the position. The Office of Women‟s Programs presents the award to a nominee that exemplifies leadership, balance (with multiple roles), commitment to community service, and mentors

women through service. Lisa Dubois held a luncheon at the Bissell House to announce the recipients of the award. Haran, both shocked and honored, received the award. (cont‟d on page 2)

Inside this issue:

Milken Award Recipient

3

Austin Update

3

The Healing Force

4

Quotes

4

The Essential Book Talk

5

Lessons from a Student Teacher

5

Back in the USA

6-7

Ron Clark

8

New Additions

8

Honors College Gala

9

Vegas Night

9

Mr. Relay

10

Fantastic Fellows

11

Birthdays!

12

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Barringer Speaks (cont‟d from front page) All students are to be ready for school. Students need to be healthy and prepared with prerequisite knowledge gained in childhood development programs. Teachers will have technology to track student progress to ensure that students are on track to meet goals and graduate on time. All students are to be set. Effective teachers will be in every classroom for every subject matter, and there will be high standards to ensure that schools prepare students to be successful after high school. All students go. Schools will help students go on to a career, college, or technical school by providing a quality education that is filled with technology and real world experiences. The number of students graduating from colleges, universities, and community colleges will increase. Barringer explained that the governor‟s plan will give educators in North Carolina a goal to work toward and a reason to give students the best education possible. He also noted that North Carolina has applied for funding from the Race to the Top federal grant pro-

gram, which will help the state implement the governor‟s education agenda. Professional Teaching Standards Barringer also addressed the North Carolina Professional Teaching Standards and their importance to the field. Barringer told Fellows, “We have to change the minds of those already in the field” in order to be able to adequately prepare all students for life in the twenty-first century. Speaking to those entering the profession now and in the next few years, Barringer said, “You all have the opportunity to make that difference in the classrooms.” The Professional Teaching Standards give teachers a goal and a framework for preparing students for life success after school. Barringer emphasized the importance of leadership, especially how important it is for teachers to be leaders. “People respect leaders,” he said, “and when you are a teacher in the classroom, you are that leader.” He encouraged Fellows to seek leadership

positions now and to continue doing so wherever their careers take them, including continuing to be involved with the Teaching Fellows program. He advised, “whenever you leave the program you have the opportunity to give back;” which is exactly what he has done by giving workshops on classroom management and being involved in summer experiences. As always, Teaching Fellows were also able to glean a few classroom tips from Barringer‟s speech. Barringer said that there is a “difference between teaching to say you taught it and teaching so they learn.” He emphasized the importance of “never drop [ping] a skill” so that when it comes time to be tested, students know the information. Finally, Barringer left the Teaching Fellows with seven life philosophies that drive how he lives his life: (1) live every day with gratitude, (2) you control your success, (3) practice and accept the golden rule, (4) stay positive, (5) set high expectations, (6) share your wisdom with others, (7) fly like and eagle and soar beyond the rest. Following these philosophies can help current pre-service teachers become teachers with a vision, with a purpose, and with an impact.

Woman of the Year (cont‟d from front page) Haran is a Middle Grades education major with a concentration in English and Science. In her free time, she loves to volunteer. She volunteers at a homeless shelter on a regular basis, and also tutors students at UNCC. She attends United Christian Fellowship and enjoys doing activities and volunteer work with them as well. Haran is a mentor to an 8th grade student through Middle Grades University. She is also the Teaching Fellows Service Committee leader and is a member of Team Teach. Haran‟s parents have been the

greatest influence in her life. She says, “They have always taught me to love with all my heart, to care for others, to believe in myself, and that no matter what they love me and are always there to support me.” She has an awesome support system consisting of her parents, brother, and friends and says, “I could never be who I am today without all of them in my life.” Haran is a wonderful woman and has earned every bit of success she holds in the future. UNC-Charlotte is proud to name her Woman of the Year.

Cassandra Haran: UNCC Woman of the Year (2010)

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Milken Award Recipient Inspires Fellows Samantha Ragland Junior Single mom of two children (Caroline and John), Biology inclusion teacher at Hopewell High School, and current Milken Award Recipient, Cindy Rudolph, came to UNC-Charlotte to speak in the Distinguished Speaker Series. Rudolph‟s spirit is one of a kind and she is a force to be reckoned with in the classroom. She adds character to the learning environment by singing, dancing, and using all forms of art to bring learning to life. She provided the audience with a taste of her teaching practices by teaching us all the photosynthesis equation in 30 seconds. Rudolph explained that her students warmed to her teaching as a result of the classroom‟s interactive nature, repetition, devotion to hands-on learning, her fearlessness when it comes to being a “fool,” and the ability to start with the end in mind. Rudolph‟s classroom exemplifies aspects of William Glasser‟s The Choice Theory. She

takes into account that “What you think is what you are.” Rudolph‟s classroom has had much success with the innovative style that it is now open as a learning lab for new teachers.

ple, do what unsuccessful people refuse to do,” help to summarize the ideas behind her teaching style. She practices an intriguing way to educate the children living in this chaotic world,

Rudolph sees herself as a life-long learner, and wishes “someone had told [her] how to teach”. With the experience she has gained, she remarked that two of the defining teaching strategies are; the need to use our hearts, and acquiring knowledge and acting upon what is best for the child. Having a positive attitude, remembering that attitudes create habit, and knowing that the smartest child is not always going to be the most successful, are included in the observations Rudolph has developed through her years of teaching. Getting to know Rudolph and her story to success was nothing short of stimulating for a new teacher‟s eager drive to create the best classroom imaginable. Her classroom rule that states, “everybody needs to feel loved,” and her notion that, “successful peo-

and is the match that re-ignites the creative minds of children.

Be The One, Be The Match Kate Collishaw Junior On December 3, 2009, the Teaching Fellows hosted a Bone Marrow Drive in honor of Austin Reddick, a nineteen year old graduate of Trinity High School whose cancer returned after six years of remission. In a final attempt to save his life, his local community sought to find a bone marrow match. After attending the event herself and speaking with Reddick‟s teachers and family, junior Teaching Fellow, Kate Collishaw, was determined to not only increase the chances of a donor, but also raise awareness for the need of bone marrow donation. The National Bone Marrow Registry program, Be The Match, teamed with Teaching Fellows to host the event. Intensive planning

and long hours led to a successful event that exceeded the expectations of the Be The Match representative Addie Sanders and brought in 74 new bone marrow registry members.

donor remains anonymous until the process is complete.

This day was not only a success for UNC Charlotte, but also for Reddick. Recently, he received the transplant that would save his life. He is currently recovering Austin Reddick immediately after the from the bone marbone marrow procedure. row process and is responding very well to treatment. His

Regardless, there is much satisfaction in knowing that due to the random acts of kindness to help a total stranger so many people were able to unite in the hope of saving a life. Without the dedication and support of the UNC Charlotte Teaching Fellows this event would not have been possible.

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Healing Force Harmonizes with Audience

Shaylysea Fisher Junior During the month of February, the Charlotte Teaching Fellows were fortunate enough to have a visit from the four members of “The Healing Force.” The group consists of Joseph, Gail, Karim, and Sonji. Not only were we entertained by the captivating music and stories of Africa, we were also educated on the oral history of the continent and the importance of good character in a person. Throughout the evening, the family of four sang songs and introduced a variety of instruments. They took the time to explain the various names of each instrument, what they are made from, and how they were played. One segment of the performance the entire audience thoroughly enjoyed was the story of “The Turtle and the Eagles.” Joseph gave an enthusiastic

and engaging vocal performance of a turtle that longed so much to be another animal, instead of the slow creature with the “big, ol‟, heavy shell” on his back. He wanted nothing more than to soar in the sky with the eagles. But once he had the opportunity to do so, he realized just how good he had it as a turtle. Unfortunately, it is too late.

Joseph explained that the moral of the story was not to be concerned with what you do not have or what others have, but instead to be thankful for

what you have. At the end of the performance, the family concluded with the “Funga Jam.” This is a type of call-andresponse interaction between the performers and the audience. The performers begin by saying, “Welcome, from the heart,” and the audience replies with, “Yes, yes, that‟s right, we all agree.” During the interaction, the family also chose participants from the audience to play instruments, and learn the dance that accompanied the song, thus making it a “Funga Jam.” The family provided a very comfortable and rhythmic atmosphere for the evening, and the audience enjoyed the interaction between their peers and the performers. If you ever get the chance to experience this amazing quartet, please do so. I think you will find the entertainment they provide is engaging for teachers and students of all ages.

Quotes About Education “An understanding heart is everything in a teacher, and cannot be esteemed highly enough. One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feeling. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child.”

Carl Jung “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.”

Henry B. Adams “We teachers can only help the work going on, as servants wait upon a master.”

Maria Montessori “When Alexander the Great visited Diogenes and asked whether he could do anything for the famed teacher, Diogenes replied: 'Only stand out of my light.' Perhaps some day we shall know how to heighten creativity. Until then, one of the best things we can do for creative men and women is to stand out of their light.”

John W. Gardner

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The Essential Book Talk Courtney Frye Junior UNC Charlotte senior Teaching Fellows visited Ron Clark‟s Academy in Atlanta this year, sparking interest and excitement in the junior class about Ron Clark, his academy, and The Essential 55. Junior Fellows came together for a book talk, hosted by Teaching Fellows Director, Dr. Misty Hathcock. Every Fellow received a card from a deck of playing cards as he or she walked in the door. Dr. Hathcock announced various ways to group the cards that would also group the students into twos or threes to answer questions that were on the PowerPoint. A couple of the

questions included: “Which rules apply to lessons learned about life?” and “If you could pick only five of Ron‟s rules to incorporate into your classroom, which five would they be and why?” The junior Teaching Fellows gave thought-provoking responses, and many did not agree with all of Ron‟s rules. John Parker remarked, “I would love to hear more of his failed experiences.” Leanna Cook said, “Some rules are second nature, not stuff you would write down.” This was echoed by many of the students, but it also caused some hands to be raised. "A lot of teachers don't think they have to teach respect but they don't always get that at home,” Emily Graniero stated. Referring to the class

in Harlem, New York that Ron Clark taught, Sarah Hicks commented, “I had to remind myself of the type of kids he was working with.” Samantha Ragland had nothing but good words to say about The Essential 55, as she summed up, “Nobody is too good for these rules.” Many students agreed that the quantity of rules was simply too much, and the book could have easily been condensed to half the rules it contained. Overall, the junior Fellows enjoyed the book and were enthusiastic about the prospect of traveling to Ron Clark‟s academy as seniors. Dr. Hathcock‟s Book Talk was a royal flush in creating great discussions and creative cooperative grouping.

Lessons From a Student Teacher Emmanuel Ross

room. When asked how she felt about student teaching Smith said; “As for Sophomore preparation, I feel that I have been very For many Junior and Senior Teachinformed of expectations and guideing Fellows there is one word that can lines the university holds for me. Atstrike fear in hearts more than any tending the extra conferences and other thrown at us seminars has been by our degree plan; very beneficial be“As Teaching Fellows, I feel that student teaching. cause I feel that I can Most of the apprewe can [speak] the ‘lingo’ of communicate better hensive feelings education because of our outside with my co-workers toward student As experiences. “ and students. teaching come with Teaching Fellows, I feel the utter uncerthat we can [speak] tainty that lies ahead. We want to the „lingo‟ of education because of our know what our students and cooperatoutside experiences. “ ing teacher will be like, if we will know Smith also shared her insights on what to do and when, and most imporsome tricks of the trade. tantly we want to know if we can hanThe school days are long; I anticidle it. These thoughts are common pate them getting even longer as and warranted. But I come with a rethe duties of a full time teacher laxed mind and can tell you not to begin. worry. I highly recommend getting a nice I recently had a chance to talk to pair of relaxing shoes! Lindsey Smith, a Senior Teaching FelPay attention in your methods courses especially to differentialow that is currently doing her student tion and child psychology. teaching in a 2nd grade CMS class-

Get involved as much as you can in your clincials. Having one-onone communication with your clincial teacher and students will help you best prepare for the challenges in today's classroom. When asked about receiving placement for student teaching and seeing the placement through, Smith had this to say: “I would definitely say I am 110% satisfied in my student teaching placement; however, before you begin applying for yearlong or student teaching, do your research of the schools based on size, performance and location that suits you best. I chose to step out of my comfort zone in selecting a school based on size which has been rewarding and eye-opening for me.” So, relax. Student teaching is a gradual process. No one will throw you into the deep end and expect you to swim on your own. The program is designed not to overwhelm you by easing you into the 20 days of consecutive teaching. Brush up on your lesson planning and you will be just fine.

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Welcome Back to the USA! Annie‟s Memories

Vesna Pauler Junior Last semester, six of our Junior Teaching Fellows left North Carolina behind and headed off to Germany for an experience they will remember for a lifetime. Annie Carroll, Kelly Santore, Michelle Burnette, Amber Larsen, and JP experienced the German culture over a two month time frame. They took this once in a lifetime opportunity and embraced the challenges and the many joys of living and studying in a foreign land. Some recall their favorite places, some the culture, and others the lasting friendships they made. These are their stories and some of their favorite memories of Germany...

Kelly‟s Memories Studying abroad was never a “must do” on my list of college priorities. In fact, I really had no desire to travel to another country. However, the perfect opportunity presented itself to attend classes in Germany with UNC Charlotte professors, and I decided to embrace the potentially life-changing experience. On September 23rd, I stepped on the plane with many of my elementary education peers, leaving behind my

I could sit for hours telling you about the wonderful experiences I had traveling the country of Germany and surrounding countries, however, one of my greatest memories was becoming great friends with Anna Miller, a student from the university we attended in Germany. It was from day one I knew that Anna was something special, but didn‟t realize at the time that on November 19th, I would be leaving one of my very best friends

family and friends. This had to be the most difficult part of the experience, but little did I know, I was beginning two months of nonstop excitement and exhaustion. I lived in an apartment with five students from various countries, interacted with other students during a week-long reading/language arts study, embraced the German culture, and visited many amazing places. I traveled within Germany, visiting the Zugspitze, Neuschwanstein Castle, Dachau, Berlin, and Munich. I even attended Oktoberfest! Aside from the German excursions, I spent several days exploring the beautiful island of Santorini, Greece, toured Rome, viewed the Alps in Switzerland, and reached the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. November 19th came so quickly, and while I was so excited (an under-

behind. Anna revealed someone to me that I had never known in myself and truly changed me, for the better, as a person. Her genuine heart, sweet personality and love to learn made my experience amazing and without her I‟m not sure what my experience would have been like. It was our choice to become friends, but someone above had to have been looking out for me because there is no way Anna and I just met by chance; our friendship was meant to be.

statement) to see my family and friends and to return to the “American way” of living, where I could enjoy a sweet tea with ice or eat a sandwich at Chickfila or not have to pay for refills, I was leaving behind a country I had grown to know and love! I would urge anyone to look into a studying abroad experience; it truly changed my life, and I learned so much about cultures and the world outside of my comfort zone.

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Stories From Germany JP‟s Memories

Amanda‟s Memories

During my trip to Germany, I was able to go swimming in the Mediterranean Sea during Fall break in Greece/ Italy.

This is the best food we had in Germany. Michelle and I ate here 3 or 4 times. I am craving this food just by looking at it!

Michelle‟s Memories

This picture was taken our fist weekend in Germany. This was at our stop after Ocktoberfest in Munich and before going up to the top of the highest mountain in Germany, the Zugspitze. It was at the Neuschwanstein Castle, south of Munich. It was a very foggy day and we could not even see off of the mountain that the castle stands on. The fog could not hide how beautiful this place was, though!

(Cont.)

Amber‟s Memories Although I loved our cooperating peers, the food, and the culture in Germany - my favorite part of my time abroad was spent traveling. Two years ago, I never would have imagined that I would be able to see the places I have now seen. I was able to travel to Santorini (a Greek Island), Rome, Zurich, Berlin, Paris, as well as Stuttgart and its surrounding towns. By traveling to these places, I got the chance to see the Colusseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, the longest shopping street in Europe while in Zurich, the remains of the Berlin wall in Berlin, the Eiffel Tower and the Versailles Palace while in Paris, and had the opportunity to walk on a volcano and rent four-wheelers while in Santorini. My time abroad and traveling are the best memories in my life, and have influenced the person I am today.

These were our crazy shaped dorms. There were 4 buildings and they were all connected underground. You can also see the train station we used.

Are you interested in studying abroad in Germany? When? Fall 2011 What courses will be offered? [ELED 4255, ELED 4122, READ 3224, READ 3226] How much? ~$3,000 to 3,500 (excludes airline costs) If interested contact: Dr. Jack Piel, Dr. Stephen Hancock, or Dr. Paola Pilonieta

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The Ron Clark Experience Samantha Ragland Junior “I wake up with energy and excitement all through me!” With these words of a fifth grader from Ron Clark‟s very own class, I introduce you to a place that can only be described as a student‟s, teacher‟s, and parent‟s wildest dream. Ron Clark Academy is, in the words of Amber Ballard, a Senior Teaching Fellow who attended the trip to The Ron Clark Academy, nothing less than “absolutely incredible.” I recently spoke with Ballard about her experience this past January, when the senior class of Teaching Fellows visited Ron Clark‟s own personal creation in Atlanta, Georgia. The secrets she divulged of the one day journey into the world of RCA were priceless. This visit is a more recent tradition added to the UNC Charlotte Teaching Fellows experience, but one that is sure to last. Ballard previously read The Essential 55, Ron‟s memoir, and was

more than excited about the trip. In a short amount of time, she not only met, but spoke with Clark and some of his students in depth about their school and their experiences at the academy. Ballard was truly touched by the experience that allowed her to think about her own influence on the world as an educator and how she can make a difference like Clark did for so many. His students are wholly dedicated to their own education, are welcoming to all visitors, and will have had the opportunity to visit 6 out of the 7 continents by the time they graduate from RCA. In Clark‟s eyes, his students are being prepared to be the next men and

women in office. The examples he sets for his students bring learning to life with music, song, and dance. One child stated that if Clark did not inspire her to love learning she would not be interested in school. To not take advantage of this enlightening educational experience would simply be an opportunity wasted and I hope that all rising juniors take the time to research the academy and the man that stands behind it in order to be prepared and excited for the most magical and enchanting learning station in the new millennium—The Ron Clark Academy.

New Addi+ions to the Freshman Class Arielle Chambers

three received word of their scholarship at various times late last semesFreshman ter and have proved to be a wonderful As the spring 2010 semester beaddition to the already dynamic freshgan, Freshman Teaching Fellows gathman class. ered for seminar for the first time since Ariel Duke, English major with a winter break. The Secondary Eduoriginal Fellows cation minor, received a pleasThe Teaching Fellows Scholarship Program describes how ant surprise as she found out provides a “good solid base for [the] future.” new faces apshe was a recipipeared among the ent of the scholmore recognizable arship: “My dad ones. In addition to the original memcalled me on Halloween while I was at bers of the class, Ariel Duke, Shelby Scarowinds to tell me there as a big McManus, and Aimee Messier, smiled envelope from Teaching Fellows at the back at everyone else. Cheyenne house. I made him open [the enveOwens, also a newbie, but one who lope] and read [the letter] to me.” Bejoined before them, became aware she cause of the prestige behind the scholwas now not the newest student. The arship, the Halloween surprise surely

excited her. Ariel, along with the others, took the offer in stride, and now is a part of the distinguished Freshman Teaching Fellows‟ cohort. Now, mid-semester, the new Freshman Fellows have gotten better acquainted with the veterans; the class accepts them with open arms. The warm acceptance genuinely reflects the overall attitude of the class. And, in Ariel Duke‟s words, the Teaching Fellows Scholarship Program provides “a good solid base for [the] future,” and she “love[s] it” so far.

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Dancing with the Stars Marisa DiFronzo Sophomore Let‟s address the stereotypical assumption often associated with honors students. Who says honors students are too consumed in their books to have fun?! Teaching Fellows and students of UNC Charlotte‟s Honors College looked absolutely stunning and exuded happiness and excitement as they danced the night away. The Lowe‟s Motor Speedway Ballroom was extravagantly decorated and provided us all with the opportunity to reminiscence on our high school prom days. The night of March 27th allowed all of the students to continue building their relationships with one another. In the midst of the dancing and so-

cializing, the Honors College King and Queens were crowned halfway through the evening. Congratulations to Kenechukwu "Kene" Onwugbolu, who was named Honors College King, representing the Business Honors Program.

Cassandra Haran, a Teaching Fellow, and Shannon Sparks, who is a part of

the Business Honors Program, were named Honors College Queens due to a tie in the voting. The night was complete with laughter, great dancing, wonderful friends, delicious desserts, devoted, hard-working directors; and as a result, many memories were made on this ravishing evening. The Gala was a perfect way to conclude this year in the Teaching Fellows program as it allowed everyone to reflect on all the accomplishments Teaching Fellows have achieved this year. This night would not have been possible without a devoted, hard-working Director, Dr. Misty Hathcock, Program Assistant, Ericka Lugo, and Graduate Assistant and Freshman Advisor, Kelli Ussery. As a sophomore Teaching Fellow, I am looking forward to the Honors College Galas I will have the privilege to attend in my upcoming college years.

Vegas Night: A Royal Flush Meagan Adair Junior The old adage, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” did not apply to the Teaching Fellows Vegas Night. Once again, Teaching Fellows along with the Honors College created another night of fun and fancy for Vegas Night. With all the staples of Vegas, students and guests came to enjoy poker and Blackjack provided by the UNC Charlotte Poker Club, and even the King himself attended the festivities. This party came with all the trimmings. From mocktails mixed by one

our very own Teaching Fellows to Elvis‟s gyrating hips on the dance floor, no detail was overlooked. The evening was topped off with a drawing of wonderful prizes that were donated by many different organizations on campus. All the proceeds of ticket sales and drinks went to help fund Teaching Fellows‟ events such as the upcoming Mr. Relay pageant. Events like this one

allow Teaching Fellows to sponsor charity events and other social events that have become an essential part of our experience here at UNC Charlotte. While Vegas Night is now just a fond memory, thanks to the money raised we can look forward to many more to come.

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Mr. Relay Raises $450 for Cancer Research Shelby McManus Freshman On April 22, the first ever Mr. Relay Pageant was presented by the Enhancement Committee. Co-chairs Gabrielle Frontera and Cassandra Haran planned and executed the pageant that raised an estimated 450 dollars for The American Cancer Society Relay for Life program. Contestants Mark Navey, John Parker, Chris Lacey, Josh Gardner, and Justin Holshouser put on a show that pleased audience members and got the message a c ro s s about Relay for Life. The theme of this year‟s Mr. Relay Pageant correlated with the theme for this year‟s Relay for

Life—football. Contestants performed their opening number in the first quarter. It was a group choreographed dance with a mix of songs that flowed together so that each individual contestant could grab the judges‟ attention before the modeling and talent portion of the pageant commenced. The second quarter was all about personality and charisma. Each contestant was dressed in their best attire to catch the judges‟ eye and they were given the chance to strike a pose on the runway. Following the modeling portion, each competitor introduced himself to the judges, and responded to two questions that revealed their personalities. Third quarter was the talent portion.

Junior Mark Navey started it off with song and guitar accompaniment that earned him a standing ovation. Next, freshman Justin Holshouser blew the crowd away with his Elvis impersonation—costume and all. Junior John Parker nearly brought down the auditorium with his powerful voice. Sophomores Chris Lacy and Josh Gardner concluded the third quarter with a twist. With the help of Stephanie Bummgardener as lyrical author, the boys performed their take on the familiar “Hey Mickey” song by exchanging the lyrics to better fit the occasion. The night came to a close and after a difficult deliberation, the four judges (Dr. Hathcock, Kelli Ussery, Amanda Macon, and Tara Ellis) announced Josh Gardner the overall winner. However, there were several honorable mentions. In addition, The Viewer‟s Choice Award went to Justin Holshouser and all the proceeds from the donations went to Relay for Life in his name.

Poetry Corner: Words of Inspiration Unity By Cleo V. Swarat I dreamed I stood in a studio And watched two sculptors there, The clay they used was a young child‟s mind And they fashioned it with care. One was a teacher: the tools she used were books and music and art; One was a parent With a guiding hand and gentle loving heart. And when at last their work was done, They were proud of what they had wrought. For the things they had worked into the child Could never be sold or bought! And each agreed she would have failed if she had worked alone. For behind the parent stood the school, and behind the teacher stood the home!

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Fantastic Fellows

Enhancement Committee: Bridget Sluder

Communications Committee: Samantha Ragland

Fun Fact: “I am obsessed with ducks.”

Fun Fact: “I am a Southern Baptist. I love my Jesus.”

Favorite TF Moment: “Seeing your preparation pay off when you actually complete the job.”

Favorite TF Moment: “The committee meetings to make the newsletter. It‟s just so fun.”

Mentoring Committee: Amanda James Fun Fact: “I have eaten an entire package of Pillsbury cookies before. Definitely regretted that one.” Quote: “I try to do what I can to help others.”

Recruitment Committee: Davisha Covington Fun Fact: I look through various fashion magazines and put together outfits of my own that are similar. Quote: “Don‟t look down on anyone unless you‟re helping them up.”

Happy Birthday! Alicia

Womble

2/2

Zachary

Lewis

5/15

Leah

Chesson

2/3

Melissa

Pitz

5/16

Lindsey

Pyatt

2/5

Adam

Hasian, Jr.

5/18

Amber

Ballard

2/7

Stephanie

Bumgarner

5/18

Davisha

Covington 2/7

Paige

Daniels

5/22

Amber

Larsen

2/9

Chelsie

Kwah

5/22

Lauren

Gosnell

2/12

Rufus

Hill

5/25

Jessica

Schaeffer

2/13

Kelly

Santore

5/25

Morgan

Kernodle

2/16

Sydney

Sheaffer

5/29

Brandi

Starnes

2/16

Steven

Watson

5/29

Ashley

Simpson

2/20

Julie

Lindsey

6/1

Monica

Faircloth

2/22

Joshua

Gardner

6/7

Dorin

Hwang

2/22

Christopher Lacy

6/11

Emily

Wolf

2/23

Leanna

Cook

6/15

Tiffany

Fele

2/28

Kristen

Noto

6/17

Ashleigh

Worley

3/11

Kaitlin

Carswell

6/24

Arielle

Chambers

3/14

Courtney

Frye

6/26

Allison

Trotter

3/18

Bradley

Griffin

7/1

Jennifer

Ely

3/20

Abigail

Bierbaum

7/1

Janee

Gregory

4/1

Janel

House

7/8

Shaylysea Fisher

4/2

Margaret

Correia

7/9

Irma

Diaz

4/6

Ann

Carroll

7/10

Alinor

Jenkins

4/12

Lisa

Ramirez

7/13

Kaitlin

Lumston

4/18

Anna

Sipe

7/13

Lynzie

Stutler

4/23

Bridget

Sluder

7/14

John

Parker, II

4/25

Deidra

Adams

7/19

Erin

Bennett

4/30

Kevin

Still

7/20

Sarah

Williams

5/2

Jevaio

Fullenwider

7/22

Joshua

Aranda

5/10

Amanda

Craver

5/12

Cassandra Haran

5/13

Lindsey

5/15

Smith