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“Russian Rocks! Just Say Da!” read the students' shirts at the cultural program of Language and Music “Discover Languages – Discover Russian!“ at Craigmont High School, an event that marked an emerging partnership between the Memphis City Schools” Russian program and the Rhodes College Russian Studies program, the most developed Russian college-level program in the Mid-South. Students and faculty of Craigmont High and Rhodes put together a celebration of the Russian language and culture through singing of folklore and contemporary songs, dancing, student testimonials, a Russian opera singer’s performance, and presentations by the professors of Russian, an eye-opening experience for the International Studies program students of Craigmont High. The program was directed by the Craigmont High teacher of Russian, Anna Karpovich.
Above, Craigmont students Crystal Welch and Cornelius Davis share their experiences with the audience.
Below, students enjoyed seeing a Russian gypsy dance.
Music by Lauren Cain and Professor Arndt of Rhodes, below, made the event festive.
On February 15 at the University of Memphis, more than a dozen Craigmont High students were selected for awards in regional competition of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA).
Student winners from Craigmont are:
Jeremy turner and Jamarius Rickett – third place – Desktop Publishing
Jamye Carter – first place – Word Processing II
D’ron Jones – third place – Impromptu Speaking
Brodrick Stevens – fourth place – Business Math
Chrisqueria Bragg – first place – Accounting I
Kayla Wright – second place – Business Communication
Dennis Aiken – first place – Introduction to Tech Concepts
John Hawkins – fourth place – Cisco
Corey Lewis – fifth place – Cisco
Marissa McLaren – second place – Hospitality Tourism
Chelsy Street – fourth place – Hospitality Tourism
John Hawkins – sixth place – Hospitality Tourism
John Hawkins – second place – Parliamentary Procedure
Terrance Price – fourth place – Sports Marketing and Management
Terrance Price – second place – Advertising
In 1994, an idealistic and driven teacher named Erin Gruwell was assigned a group of students that were labeled as "unteachable, at-risk" teenagers. This class of diverse students proved to be one of Erin Gruwell’s biggest challenges and greatest accomplishments. The students were defiant and prepared to prove to Ms. Gruwell that they were not interested in learning. She proved them very wrong! A classroom prank prompted Erin Gruwell to take action and prove to her students that everyone has a purpose. She allowed her students the voice and freedom of expression no one else had ever provided. The Freedom Writers Diaries was the result of their hard work, dedication and perseverance. The inspiring story of the Freedom Writers has been used by classroom teachers to promote literacy at all grade levels in schools across the United States.
Recently, Ridgeway Middle School was chosen as the only local school visit to receive a school visit by Erin Gruwell, due in part to the overwhelming participation from the school’s student body. Over a six-week period, the entire student body at RMS participated in the serialized excerpts and corresponding curricula that was published in The Commercial Appeal. RMS students embraced the writings of Ms. Gruwell and her students and their stories encouraged them to create many quality works that were highlighted throughout the school. Students were particularly surprised and elated when Maria Reyes, one of Ms. Gruwell’s students, also spoke during the assembly. Hearing Ms. Reyes’ story allowed the students to fully understand and realize that any hardships in life can be overcome, especially when one is driven to succeed and encouraged by teachers.
Pictured left to right are: Maria Reyes, RMS Principal, Lisa Henry, Erin Gruwell and Hal Harmon, PDSCC
On March 27, 2008, Jake the Science Guy from Discovery will visit Ridgeway Middle School. During the assembly, students will learn why Science Matters. Students will also receive Astronaut Ice cream and one lucky student will receive a telescope through a drawing. Students will have their pictures taken by placing their faces in cutouts of life size astronauts. As part of the presentation, Ridgeway Middle School received a $5,000 check. The money will be used to purchase a mobile computer lab to help students with their research projects.
Mrs. Hall, RMS Librarian/Media Specialist shows off the $5,000 check from the Discovery Channel.
On February 27, Ms. Tosha Spears, Frayser Elementary guidance counselor, and four sixth grade students were invited to participate in the Federal Bureau of Investigation Memphis/U.S. Postal Services Annual Black History Commemoration. Elijah A. (shown below) from Ms. Tonya Bowles' class read a poem he had written for the occasion and was presented a commemorative First African American Heritage Stamp Collection. The FBI is one of Frayser Elementary’sadopters.
The Central Gulf Black Professionals Association visited the students of Manassas High School on February 28 to speak about the many career opportunities in operations and sales for Frito-Lay. Frito-Lay’s Key Account Manager, Warren Swift organized the visitation of about 24 company associates who traveled from all areas of the Southern region of the United States. Teams of young black men and women told the students of the success they have obtained while working various positions within the Frito-Lay Company. Many of the Manassas High School students displayed great interest in the possible career opportunities and valuable information offered by members of the Central BPA. Most of all, the students were given a since of pride and hope from seeing the success and positive gains of other young black men and women.
First grade students Shada Harris and Alondre Maxwell proudly stood with their principal Cindy Saulsberry, displaying their some of their favorite Dr. Seuss books. Students celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday on Monday, March 3 by role-playing characters, identifying rhyming words, reading, and writing summaries about many Dr. Seuss books, including Green Eggs and Ham, The Foot Book, and The Cat in the Hat. First grade students wore Dr. Seuss hats to celebrate their excitement for reading. Way to go first graders!!
Lester’s seventh grade students had a fun-filled day of learning at Memphis Botanic Gardens discovering science and plant life on February 19. The Botanic Gardens has a customized program for seventh graders which meets state Science standards for identifying plant parts and describing pollination and cross pollination. Lester students, shown below, truly enjoyed this hand-on learning experience!
Seventh grade students from Lester visited and toured the Medical Education and Research Institute (MERI) recently. Located on Cleveland Street in Memphis, MERI specializes in medical education research by receiving cadavers from around the country and then filming experimental surgeries on them in a theatre setting for interested surgeons, both domestic and international. Lester students viewed this facility and were allowed to put on gloves and analyze real human body parts, evaluate smoker and non-smoker lungs, hearts, and brains. This trip supported the TCAP Science standards of identifying organs and organ systems for grade seven.
On Monday, March 3, Lincoln Elementary School kicked off the celebration with its school Poetry Club compiling creative poetry to be analyzed by visiting readers. A number of prominent citizens came to the school as visiting readers, such as U.S. Representative Steve Cohen, City Court Clerk Thomas Long, Steve Selby, a broadcaster with Memphis RedBirds, Tony Nickelson, author of “110 Tasks Every Young Man Should Know by 9th Grade,” WKNO’s Mr. Chuck, MEA President Yvonne Acey, Ms. Susanne Jackson, UniServ Director, and Marc Taylor, engineer with Smith & Nephew.
The day was topped off with “A Character Parade” of Lincoln staff dressed as their favorite book characters. Lincoln Elementary continues its long history of promoting literacy through a variety of activities and celebrations.
This year, Lincoln was fortunate to be the only Memphis city school selected for a reading by author John Erickson, who wrote the “Hank the Cowdog” series.
“Holmes' Heavenly Harpists" from Springdale Memphis Magnet Elementary School will conduct their first out of school performance on March 30 at Cummings Street Missionary Baptist Church during the 11:30 a.m. service. The fifth Sunday of every month is children's Sunday when members of the church and other students get the opportunity to perform. Mrs. Erica Ball-Holmes is a member of this church and is the Orff Music teacher at Springdale where she also has harp classes.
Pathways to Success' was the theme for the Chickasaw Middle School Career Day on Wednesday, March 5 in the Library. The students decorated the library with footprints bearing their names and career goals,. Business leaders from our community provided information on specific careers. The focus on careers was culminated the following week with winners selected for an essay writing contest, an art project, and other special demonstrations of the students' personal plans for success.
The business leaders and students enjoyed the day.
Mansears Alexander of Pinnacle Airlines gives the students information on his job as a Ground Service Agent.
The East High School HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) Chapter received a grant from Memphis City Schools to help with the promotion of its 2007-2008 Service Learning Project, which is Diabetes Education.
Diabetes was chosen as the Service Learning Project because statistics show that by 2010, 2 out of 3 African Americans will have diabetes. To promote the project, the East High Community Awareness Team participated and hosted various Events and activities to enhance the knowledge of our local school system and surrounding community concerning Diabetes. These events included:
Many of the students at East High School did not have the understanding that Diabetes is an inherited disease that one receives from his or her parents. The foods that an individual eats only make the signs and symptoms of Diabetes worse.
Their goals are to educate as many people as possible concerning the facts about Diabetes and to eradicate any myths that are prevalent that deals with Diabetes and at the same time support victims who are suffering from Diabetes.
On March 12, the East High HOSA hosted a Diabetes Day at East High School. During the month of September 2007, the health science students developed various recipes for those who have Diabetes. The students used Diabetes Day to cook these meals and pass out their recipes.
(Left to right) Mr. Crouse, Mr. Brooks. Principal: Dr. Green, Mr. Sproces, Mr. Collins: Welding teacher, Mr. Thorn
On Thursday, March 6, guest speakers form the welding field including corporate recruiters and local union representatives talked to students in Mr. George Collins Welding class at the East Career and Technology Center. The guest speakers were Mr. Greg Crouse, Apprenticeship Coordinator, Ironworker’s Local Union#167; Mr. Roosevelt Brooks, Corporate Recruiter, Barnhart Crane Service; Mr. Robert Sproces, Business Agent, Steamfitters’ Local Union 614; Mike Thorn, Union Organizer, Sheet metal Workers Local Union #4. The guest speakers talked to students about careers in welding and about the local unions and how important it is to be apart of your labor union.
On Thursday, February 28, 63 Wooddale Middle School’s students, teachers and parents toured the National Civil Rights Museum. The students were complimented on their well-maintained behavior several times and enjoyed live performances of the past and viewed the many exhibits throughout the museum.
Upon leaving the museum, the students headed to The Spaghetti Warehouse for lunch. The students represented Wooddale Middle School in a positive way.
Wooddale Middle School had an opportunity to look back in history on Thursday, February 28, during the school’s Black History Celebration. The event was filled with memories that still linger on in the minds of many who were present and was well attended by parents, students, and members of the community.
The speaker for the occasion was Minister Zedrick Clayton, Associate Minister, Olivet Baptist Church. The event also featured performances by The Watoto De Afrika, the Wooddale Middle School Choir, the Wooddale Middle School Step Team, and poetic renditions by the Wooddale Middle School Students.
Germanshire Elementary presented “the ultimate” Black History Program on February 28. It began with the African American National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Afterward, the Germanshire Chorus sang “Wade in the Water.” Students from all grade levels portrayed inventors, athletes, actors, educators, entertainers, mathematicians and politicians. The big finale included amazing student performances of the Motown/ Stax Reunion: Carla Thomas, The Temptations, Jackie Wilson, The Impressions, Sam Cooke, The Supremes, Sam & Dave, Stevie Wonder, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Isaac Hayes, The Staple Singers and Al Green.
Germanshire Elementary Kindergarten students took the whole school on a trip to Australia and Antarctica. Penguins sang and moved all over. Kangaroos hopped too. Teachers say everyone learned more about these two continents as the students continue to travel around the world in 180 days.
Treadwell students Adrianne Leggett, Cherelle Williams, Idella Bass and Jasmine Edwards were invited to breakfast at the Crescent Club to read essays they had submitted for an Optimist Club contest. The topic was “Why Me? Why Not Me?” All of the young ladies received a framed certificate of appreciation for their participation. In addition, Adrianne Leggett received a bronze medal for her submission.
Treadwell High School held its Black History Program during the month of February. The theme was “Are You a Part of the Legacy?” After the presenting of colors by the JROTC, the band led the student body in renditions of the Star Spangled Banner as well as Lift Every Voice and Sing. Performances throughout the program included a dramatic interpretation, mime, and a civil rights video clip. In addition, the dance and step teams performed. Guest speaker was Mrs. Beverly C. Robertson, president of the National Civil Rights Museum. Mrs. Robertson delivered a very impassioned message to the students to always pursue their goals with passion and purpose. The program was a culmination of activities and studies during Black History Month.
What is the difference in a liquid and a solid? How do we hear a sound? Use chocolate candies to show 9 + 7. How many are there? These and many other problems were presented and solved during the Raleigh-Bartlett Meadows Elementary “Family Math and Science Night” held Wednesday, March 4.
Parents and students worked together to find solutions to fun activities provided by the different grades. One activity was called “Oobleck.” Mixing cornstarch and water, you grab the resulting mixture with your hands and it acts like a solid; however, when the substance feels the warmth of skin, it turns into a liquid!
Over 150 people enjoyed the math and science activities and dinner that followed. The night was also a part of Memphis City Schools’ “School Choice Week” activities. Parents and community members were invited to tour the school and see the many opportunities offered at Raleigh-Bartlett Meadows. A slide presentation of the school, news articles, a presentation of the librarian’s Japan trip, schoolwork by children, and a tour of the building were available for viewing throughout the evening. The event was a great success and is always eagerly anticipated by students and parents alike.
First grade teacher, Deb Dedrick, helps kindergartner, Katlyn Hunter, learn about sound and vibrations during Raleigh-Bartlett Meadows “Family Math and Science Night” on March 4.
Second grader, Adalaide May, works with second grade teacher, Pam Pratt, on “Math in a Bag” as part of “Family Math and Science Night” at Raleigh-Bartlett Meadows Elementary.
Colonial Middle School presented five original one-act plays using 79 CAPA Drama students. The plays were based on Classical Literature such as Romeo and Juliet, and the Drama students planned to present the plays again.
Colonial Middle CAPA Choir students are Touring and Performing a Friendship Concert with a local choir from the Children's Palace of Dongcheng District in China. The Choir students left March 5 and returned March 11.
Drama students at Colonial presented plays based on classical literature.
Fourth and fifth grade students at Sea Isle Elementary attended a concert presented by the Memphis Symphony Orchestra at Hutchison School on February 14. The trip culminated an integrated unit of study entitled “Sounds of the City,” which included lessons in music, creative writing, and art. This unit was prepared by Memphis City Schools staff and was aligned with Memphis City Schools standards. It was a collaborative effort between the Memphis Symphony Orchestra and Memphis City Schools. The unit includes a pre-visit and a post-visit to Sea Isle by members of the Memphis
Symphony Orchestra.
The compositions performed were written by various composers who were inspired either by their own country or a country that they had visited. The program included Respighi’s “Fountains of Rome,” Ibert’s “Tunis,” Bernstein’s “Times Square 1944” from On The Town, Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1,” and an orchestral arrangement of W.C. Handy’s “Memphis Blues” arranged by Richens.
Art students under the direction of Sea Isle Art Instructor, Miss Seung Hee Clifton, submitted entries of works which depicted a local landmark, the Hernando DeSoto Bridge. Exemplary artwork was featured in an exhibition in the auditorium at Hutchinson School. The artwork is currently on display at the Memphis Board of Education. Winners from Sea Isle Elementary included: Elijah Ellis, Jessica Kent, Holly Berry, John Cortes, Abby McVey, and Johnathan Bushart, shown below.
On Tuesday, March 25, KK students will see "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" at the Orpheum Theatre. On Wednesday, March 26, the Sea Isle PTO is sponsoring Chick-Fil-A Night at the Chick-Fil-A on Poplar at Mendenhall, and Sea Isle Faculty and Staff eat dinner with parents and students. On Thursday, March 27, Sea Isle second graders will see Dr. Seuss's "Horton Hears a Who."
Carver High held its second Sober Cobras "Reality Check 2" Carnival on March 14, with the theme "You can have a ball, Without Alcohol."
The Sober Cobras are Carver High School students trying to bring awareness about the dangers related to the abuse of alcohol and all the other risky behaviors that are part of the abuse, including the fact that 41% of all school absences, as well as poor academics, are related to the abuse of alcohol.
Dunbar Elementary held a Winter Extravaganza, in which the King and Queen of Dunbar were crowned. The pageant was a fundraiser for the school. The students who raised the most money were crowned as king and queen. Students were dressed for the occasion and walked down the aisle proudly displaying their attire. Participants received a trophy and bag of goodies for their efforts in the fundraiser.
Getwell Elementary first grade students visited the Memphis Children's Museum during the week of March 10, where they learned about many different things. They most enjoyed the airplane and treehouse. Students enjoyed the art room and creating projects using recycled goods. Thanks to CMOM for having such a great place for kids to visit and learn.
Getwell Elementary students attended the Conference USA Tournament on Friday, March 14. Getwell would like to thank Nike and Conference USA for providing Getwell students with tickets and transportation to attend the game at the FedEx Forum. We would also like to thank everyone involved for the great t-shirts. The students had a great time!
At South Park Elementary, art teacher Melissa Crown, guest artist Kelly Rout, and many of the students are creating an original mural on the wall in the music and art room. The mural is approximately 20 feet long and features likenesses of some of the students in the characters' faces. We are all looking forward to the "unveiling" of this collaborative mural.
Dr. Seuss was on the loose at South Park! To celebrate his birthday, the Student Advisory Board sponsored the Dr. Seuss Cafe where cookies and pink lemonade were served. The "waiters," student advisory board members, read Dr. Seuss stories to students in grades K - 2. Many of the teachers got in on the fun as well, as shown below.
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