city schools
Hugh Mercer Elementary
Second-grade gifted and talented students are harvesting seeds from their garden. They have several different varieties of seeds but could use more. They plan to sell them in the spring as packaged seeds to raise money for the Hugh Mercer garden. You can help their effort by donating seeds or bulbs from your own garden. Please label your donation with the name of the plant and the name of the person who grew the plant. For details, contact gifted-talented resource teacher Michele Phillips, at
Email: mphillips@cityschools.com.
The school is participating in the Fredericksburg Food Bank's "Kids 'N' Kans" food drive to assist the needy in the area. The classroom that contributes the most canned goods or nonperishable food items by the end of this month will be treated to a cupcake and music party hosted by music teacher Chris Crowley.
In appreciation for assistance for vision-impaired students from the Fredericksburg Host Lions Club, Hugh Mercer is joining their fundraiser sale of this year's official White House Christmas ornament. You may purchase an ornament for $18 by contacting Cindy Hurley at 540/372-1115 or
Email: churley@cityschools.com. Profits from the sale of these ornaments are reinvested back into our community as charitable donations.
Parent volunteers are reading in their children's classrooms this week in support of Read Aloud Week.
Kindergartners celebrated Fire Safety Week with a special visit from the Fredericksburg Fire Department. Students learned about fire safety and were given a look inside a fire truck to see all the different instruments used to put out fires. Each student was given a fire safety booklet, a firefighter hat, and a badge. Kindergartners also visited Belvedere Plantation last week.
Second-graders are looking forward to Paul Rabatin's presentation Thursday about mapping.
Students will be dismissed at 12:45 p.m. Oct. 20. Please make the necessary arrangements for your child's early dismissal from school.
--Cindy Hurley
Lafayette Upper Elementary
All students have set their goal this year to "Run Across America." Every time the students go to physical education, they run for six minutes. Each quarter-mile lap is recorded and totaled weekly by physical education teachers. Each grade has picked a different location to run to, based on their classroom studies. The fifth grade is headed to Denver because they are studying the Rocky Mountains. Fourth grade is running all over Virginia since they are studying the regions of Virginia, and the third grade is headed to Quebec to support their study of Canada. Each week in health, the students' will map how far they ran that week and where they are on the map. When each grade reaches their goal, they will receive a special surprise.
Lion Fun Day will be Thursday. All students who have not received a discipline referral during the first seven weeks of school will be able to attend Lion Fun Day. This assembly will be a live performance on "Drumming in the Digital Age."
Picture Day has been rescheduled. School pictures will be taken tomorrow. Students should bring money with them to school that day in their picture envelope. These pictures will be used in the school yearbook.
Oct. 20 will be an early dismissal day. Students will be dismissed at 12:45 p.m. for faculty development.
SCA officers will be installed at a formal ceremony at 9 a.m. Oct. 27.
--Karen Duffy
Walker-Grant Middle
The recent Touching Bases conference session was well attended. Parents who missed this opportunity may plan to attend parent-teacher conferences Nov. 16. Please note that appointments are required and may be obtained by contacting guidance secretary Courtney McWhirt at 540/372-1145.
Flag Brigade members for last week were Akira Jones, Craig Lopez and Rachel Robey.
G/T Performing Arts students performed for their fellow students during lunch waves last Thursday.
Pumpkin grams are on sale for 50 cents each. Students may send greetings and a treat to their friends by purchasing pumpkin grams from NJHS members before school or during lunch.
SCA campaign speeches will be heard in a schoolwide assembly Thursday at 8 a.m., with final elections on Friday.
Oct. 20 is an early dismissal day for students.
The new physical fitness program and equipment will be introduced in a kickoff celebration Oct. 25, from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. This innovative fitness program is sponsored by Project Fit America and Sport & Health Clubs.
--Renee Embrey
James Monroe High
Twenty-three students at James Monroe High School have earned the designation of AP Scholar by the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement Program Exams.
Three students qualified for the National AP Scholar Award by earning an average grade of four or higher on a five-point scale on all AP exams taken, and grades of four or higher on eight or more of these exams. These students are Lucas Gillenwater, William Jacobs and Nathan Self.
Nine students qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and grades of three or higher on five or more of these exams. These students are David Betz, Rachel Bishop, Russell Culberson, Jeremy Fisher, Lucas Gillenwater, William Jacobs, Valerie Paquette, Kenneth Seaver and Nathan Self.
Two students qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken, and grades of three or higher on four or more of these exams. These students are Robert Calloway and Sarah Willard-Eroh.
Nine students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP exams with grades of three or higher. The AP Scholars are Carol Billingsley, Seth Haley, Cameron John, Jared Miller, Anna Mills, Taylor Mock, Alexis Neustatter, Calvin Roberts and Adelaide Snedden.
Dan Crook and Dylan Vasey successfully auditioned for the Junior Regional Honors Orchestra during the annual open auditions. Orchestra students from around the area went to Parkside Middle School and auditioned for spots for this year's orchestra. They were required to play scales, play a prepared piece, and sight read music in front of a panel of judges who were hidden behind a curtain. From this, the students are scored based on how well they play and only a certain number of the top-ranking students are asked to perform in the orchestra. Both students from James Monroe play the violin.
--Heidi Miller
county schools
Battlefield Elementary
Some of the morning news staff for WBES for the months of September and October are Jeremiah Kauo , Matthew Swartz, Allison Weiland, Nichole Giambo, Brandon Lawter, Nicholas Weber and Nicholas Zeilinger. Nolan Bonner and Colin Kreiling will serve as cameraman for the school year.
Students in Amy Martin's class made apple pies, applesauce, and graphed the results of apple taste testing. Granny Smith apples were the class favorite.
During the months of October and November, third-graders are focusing on the theme "Celebrating Traditions." They will be exploring ways that people across the United States celebrate family and cultural traditions and how these traditions enrich their lives. They will have an opportunity to write about and share celebrations and traditions that are special to them and their families.
--Sandra Decatur
Berkeley Elementary
The Special Areas team has been busy with their Berkeley Beavers.
Throughout the year, fifth-graders have been studying art from different time periods in history. Last week, they created medieval-style gargoyles. The creative creatures are assembled using various clay rolling and pinching techniques.
Third-graders have been working on self-portraits and have been encouraged to incorporate some of their own personality into the drawing.
First-graders read Maurice Sendak's "Where the Wild Things Are." They also learned about texture and how illustrators use a variety of lines to depict texture in artworks. They created their own things covered with fur and scales.
Kindergartners worked on basic shapes and creative drawings and collages. Now, they are working on pattern.
In the music department, the fifth-grade music classes have been learning and performing the Virginia Reel, a dance that often is called a square dance but is actually a reel brought from England. Free ice cream was earned if students could memorize all 50 states for the song, "Fifty Nifty United States."
The Spanish department has been studying South American culture as a way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Fourth-graders have been played a Spanish bingo trivia game, watched a video about Guatemala, and read books about Central American history. Third-graders are learning the culture of three Caribbean islands: Puerto Rico, Cuba and Dominican Republic. Second-graders are learning about Spanish culture. First-graders and kindergartners have been learning about Mexican culture. They played a game called, "La Piñata" and learned how to dance to the "Laraspa" song.
--Anthony Bramlett
Brock Road Elementary
The following classes won the Golden Paintbrush award:
Fifth grade--Denise Boyd's class.
Fourth grade--Sandra Blader's class.
Third grade--Karen Dodson's class.
Second grade--Jenneth Zimmerman's class.
First grade--Tracy Ash's class.
Kindergarten--Kristin Mc-Guire's class.
Students in third-, fourth- and fifth-grades are enjoying going to the Literary Lunchroom to read books after they finish eating lunch.
Sarah Eckenrode's first-grade classes enjoyed learning about schools long ago and played Colonial games to relive olden days.
--Elizabeth Berry
Chancellor Elementary
Last week's Spanish word of the week was fecha, which means "the date."
The PTA meeting and ice cream social will be held tonight. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m., and the ice cream social begins at 7 p.m. The event is free to all Chancellor Elementary parents and children.
--Amy Clodius
Courtland Elementary
This week is Bridge Map week at Courtland Elementary. Students, with guidance from their teachers, will be constructing these Thinking Maps to show analogies.
The following fifth-graders served as Cougar Cave helpers Oct. 4: Kelly Smith, Alex Cassetta, Trone Ashford and Jonathan Mersiowsky. The Cougar Cave is open the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. Forms are available from classroom teachers.
In recognition of Exceptional Children's Month, PowerPoint presentations featuring famous and accomplished people with learning disabilities will be shown today and Thursday after morning announcements. These were created by Tammy Jones' students.
Oct. 20 is school picture day.
--Becky Murray
Harrison Road Elementary
The following students were chosen as Superstars: Katilyn DePriest, Brian Garcia, Dylan Pesti, Jacob Martin, Sean Williams, Erik Idrizi, Madison Treiber, Micah Leiss, Michael Campbell, Mea Lucas, Kaitlyn O'Gorman, Brooke Baugh, Edwin DelRosario, Zack Barnum, Makayla Little, Noah Fellinger, Jarred Doody, James Caras, Haley McDaniel, Autum Green, Christopher Keith, Racheal Heishman, Marcus Weakley, Kristen Hilbert, Kandace Rakes, Amanda Lopez, Brittany Blankenbaker, Lexie Marrow, Cochise Wanzer, Morgan Wright, Kayla Knapp, Natalie Williams, Don Lee, Tiarya Shepherd, Garrett Brooks, Jenny Lovas, Madelyn Wright, Katie Roderick, Karlos Garcia, Carmen Beverly, Stephanie Godoy-Blanco, Nick Wagner, Christina Howard, Amaya Winston, Daniel Machado, Rebecca Santiago, Jackie Santiago, Alexis Blake, Kylie Jones, Zach Reynolds, Brandon Schaub and Ricky Monto.
Rita's Ice and Mama's Pizza provided support during the "Reading Under the Stars" event Oct. 2.
PTA Reflections contest entries are due Oct. 23.
Oct. 22-28 is National Red Ribbon Week. Talk to your children about staying off drugs and resisting peer pressure.
The first nine-week grading period will end Oct. 26. Oct. 27 is a teacher workday with no school for students.
The combined fourth- and fifth-grade chorus is practicing hard for the winter concert, which will be held Nov. 28 at 9:30 a.m, 1:30 p.m and 7 p.m. at the school.
--Donna Pirnat
Lee Hill Elementary
You are invited to attend the Project Fit America ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 25, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Debbie Mickens' initiative led to the school being awarded a $15,000 grant to install new outdoor fitness equipment.
The PTO "Believe" fundraiser pickup will now be held Nov. 9-10.
SCA campaign speeches and elections will be held Thursday beginning at 9:15 a.m.
New staff members are:
Assistant principal--Jennifer Belako.
Kindergarten--Michelle Beverage, Grace Santiago and Jennifer West.
First grade--Jennifer Costa, Shawna Dygert and Nicole Moracco.
Second grade--Harper Dawson.
Third grade--Peter Style.
Fourth grade--Willa Criego.
Fifth grade--Angela Cave and Francie Graesie.
Special education--Tracy Kraut and Grace Robillos..
Special services/areas--Daniel Radford, music; Tammy Bottomley, reading resource; Elizabeth Von Tersch, Spanish; Lauren Kirby, ESOL Itinerant; Barbara Hopkins, guidance; Alice Sandage, music; Cynthia Stewart, art; Marvin Srivastava, Spanish.
Paraeducators--Catherine McFarlane and Heidi Renedo.
The first grade will visit Riverside Dinner Theatre to see a performance of "Seussical" on Thursday.
Picture Day is Friday.
Next week is Red Ribbon Week and Drug-Free America Week. Students are encouraged to wear something red on Monday. See the October calendar for other special events to celebrate Red Ribbon Week.
--Lisa Ehmer
Riverview Elementary
Recent classroom winners of the "Run For Fun" are:
Kindergarten--Pamela Ulans' class.
First grade--Ginger Carey's class.
Second grade--Betsy Hawthorne's class.
Third grade--Christi Clark's class.
Fourth grade--Kathleen Tulloss' class.
Fifth grade--Marguerite Smith's class.
There will be a school spirit day Oct. 20.
--Nancy Burger
Robert E. Lee Elementary
These students received a perfect score of 600 on one or more Standards of Learning tests for the state of Virginia: Angela Allen, Rachel Avery, Kaitlin Bailey, Sarah Bywaters, Shelby Bourquein, Dalton Childers, Courtney Chmielewski, Jessica Clark, Christopher Cronin, Dominic Cronin, Maggie Croson, Colin Davis, Virginia Dishman, Jonas Graham, Joshua Green, Elijah Gregory, Dustin Huber, Nathan Kennedy, Dustin Lacey, Janihya McCurdy, Rebekka Mullins, Halle Parker, Ayoka Pendleton, Exstacy Perkins, Nakisa Pirooz, Nickolas Polanosky, Amanda Ramirez, Joshua Rollins, Harley Scott, Robert Soto, Sydney Strader, Taylor Subacius, Kelsie Tyson, Michael Wolfrey, David Woodard and Miranda Wyman.
Second-grade teacher Teresa Lee won the Golden Apple award from WFLS Sept. 28. She received a plaque and gift bag. She is the first recipient of this award for the 2006-07 school year.
--Rita Caruth
Salem Elementary
Second-grade teachers Liz Conrad, Beth Hoovler, Carolyn Wheat and Joanne Tulloss demonstrated Kidspiration, a classroom technology program, at the Spotsylvania County Schools Techfest Oct. 14. This application uses technology for sorting, classifying and analyzing information. Students who assisted at the Techfest presentation were Lindsay Pett, Landon Decoito, Hanna Ervin, Kristen Rapier, Matthew Morgan, Dawson Bullard, Toby Logan-Grumko, Jocelyn Mendez, Trista McFadden, Avery Hilburn and Noah Dixon. The Salem Techfest presentation was coordinated by Jodi Moore, instructional technology resource teacher at Salem.
Students and staff enjoyed the Fall Festival at Salem Elementary Oct. 14. The theme was "A Cruise Around the World" and students learned about many world cultures as they played games, sampled foods and participated in raffles and a cake walk. The Fall Festival was organized by the Salem PTA.
Fourth-grade students enjoyed a field trip to Oakley Farm in Spotsylvania County Oct. 10. They visited stations to learn about natural resources, wildlife, and science SOL facts in a hands-on setting.
Fifth-graders will learn about rocks and minerals on a field trip to Morefield Gem Mines Oct. 24. Students are reminded to wear clothing that allows for the weather and muddy outdoor conditions.
--Lois Murdaugh
Smith Station Elementary
Remember that every Friday is Spirit Day. Either wear your Smith Station shirt or the color red to show your school spirit.
--Sarah Scherfel
Spotswood Elementary
The following Fitness Challenge Club students qualified for the entry level in the Turtle Hurdle challenge by jumping 15 times: Keith Batten, Corinne Simms, Hunter Moison, Imani Jones, Shay Monroe, Eleni Martinez, Elly Cox, Keila Montiel, Steven Michadick, Parker Williams, Jodie Scott, Kaitlyn Hall, Justin Deters, Sydney Michael, Makayla Snider, Bryan Sablan, Stacy Jackson and Kendra Jones.
The following Fitness Challenge Club members qualified for the midlevel in the Turtle Hurdle Challenge by jumping 25 times: Alexis Green, Joshua Rebennack. Joseph Hildebrand, Nadia Young, Jada Coleman, Brittany Brooks, Chelsea Emch and Collin Garnett.
The following Fitness Challenge Club members qualified for the high level in the Turtle Hurdle Challenge by jumping 40 or more times: Sam McCown, Christopher Bradshaw, Tera Marzullo-Dove, Dawson Fishel, Sean Conlee, Josh Bache. John Cook, Matthew Sullivan, T.J. Carter, Cassidy Jansch, Jon Aguilar, Ainsley Satterwhite, Andrew Branham, Jamal Jones, Shawn Bowman, Heidi Stephens, Christopher Kim, Darren Gary, Anthony Long, Jordan Bache, Caroline Crossman, Alexis Breeden, Dezarhay Ferguson,
--Devra Pickett
Wilderness Elementary
Debra Wolfe's, Jennifer Eckhart's, Stephanie Anderson's, June Bennett's and Traci East's classes have completed Scholastic's challenge to read 100 books. Once a class reaches its goal, Scholastic will donate 100 books to needy children. Several more classes are still working on their goal.
The PTA-sponsored Running Club is up and running again, with more than 80 runners participating. They meet after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
--Susan Strawn
Battlefield Middle
Battlefield has joined Adopt a Classroom, a tax-exempt organization that harnesses the resources of the community and the Internet to enrich the classroom environment and increase both teachers' and students' chances for success. For each classroom that you adopt you make a $500 contribution. Adopt a class directs the funds to a specific classroom to purchase items that enrich the learning environment. Accountability and responsibility is emphasized and the sponsor will receive an itemized statement detailing exactly what was purchased. You will also have a chance to communicate with the teacher and students and visit the classroom to experience firsthand the impact of your contribution. Check out the Web site adoptaclassroom.com for details.
The results of the SCA election:
President--Chau Tran
Vice president--Joanna Mattaliano
Secretary--Holly Simmons
Treasurer--Lindsey Guthrie
Historians--Savannah Os-bourne, Savannah Patterson and Brandy Marcus.
Heather Drane's seventh-grade civics classes are working on community service projects. The Thurman Brisben Center, SPCA and school library will benefit from these projects.
Middle-schoolers up to age 12 are invited to apply for the Prudential Spirit Award for community service accomplished during the past year. Details are available in the guidance office. Application deadline is Oct. 20.
This is National School Bus Safety Week. If you ride a bus, please take a minute and thank your bus driver for being concerned for your safety.
The end of the first nine weeks is Oct. 26. There will be no school for students Oct. 27 as it is a teacher workday.
--Connie Moore
Chancellor Middle
SCA officers for the 2006-07 school year are:
President--Michael Goulet
Vice president--Matt Rector
Secretary--Macy Traber
Treasurer--Joshua Donohue.
The end of the first nine weeks is coming up Oct. 26. That means report cards will be coming out Nov. 2 and parent-teacher conferences will be Nov. 9, 6-8 p.m. If you wish to meet with your child's teachers, please call the school to make appointments.
There is no school Oct. 27. It will be a teacher workday.
Tryouts for boys basketball and wrestling will start Nov. 6. Any seventh- or eighth-grader interested in trying out will need a completed, current physical form. The form must be completely filled out including the insurance information. For details, call athletic director Ted Garner, or e-mail him at
Email: tgarner@ms.spotsylvania.k12 .va.us.
--Sue Leiss
Freedom Middle
Freedom Middle School recognized Disability Awareness Month and brought the local community together for the first Special Education Family Dinner Night Oct. 10. The evening included an inspirational slide show, fun group activities, door prizes and a potluck dinner shared by staff, students and their families. Together we can make a difference for all students.
The school will host Spotsylvania County All County Chorus Oct. 20-21. Fifteen top singers from each of the county's seven middle schools will join together under the direction of guest conductor Don Krudop of Virginia Beach to present a concert. Students representing the school are:
Sopranos--Lauren Dayton, Angela Develin, Erin Dort, Sydney Kimbrough and Kierstin Smith; and alternates Tiffane DeBose and Kristin Roth.
Altos--Kierstin Brooks, Denae Franklin, Janay Frazier, Jarhea Shumpert and Kiara Tucker; and alternate Annsonia Thomas.
Baritones--Micah Cunningham, Andrew Guerra, Jarvis Hutcherson, Nicholas Vasquez and Gregory Vinson; and alternate Michael Smith.
Freedom Middle School is proud of our safe and drug-free school. To help spread the anti-drug message and to encourage healthy life choices we will celebrate Red Ribbon Week starting Oct. 23 with many activities including the following dress up days:
Oct. 23, "Drugs turn you inside out," students can wear clothes inside out.
Oct. 24, "Team Up Against Drugs," students can wear their favorite sports jersey or team apparel.
Oct. 25, "Tie One On Against Drugs," students can wear a tie.
Oct. 26, "Put a cap on drugs," students can wear a hat to school.
--Melinda Olsberg
Ni River Middle
This is Read Aloud to a Child Week. Visit readaloudva.org for more information.
Bobby Lewis, vice president of Meadows Farms Golf Course, taught physical education classes in order to demonstrate some of the finer points of golf. In addition to lessons on proper stance, grip, and swing, Lewis gave a brief talk on etiquette, equipment and the proper technique of hitting the ball. Lewis gave out T-shirts, monogrammed golf balls, and free passes to Meadows Farms Golf Course.
Proceeds received from the physical education department-sponsored dances Oct. 11 and from the yearlong recycling of paper will be donated to the Spotsylvania Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit Program. Proceeds received from the dance in November will be donated to the SPCA.
This annual, nationwide Patriot's Pen Essay Writing Contest, sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, has begun. Entries are due by the end of the school day Oct. 20. This contest gives students an opportunity to express their views on democracy with the added incentive of winning U.S. savings bonds. This year's theme is "Citizenship in America."
The annual Scholastic Bookfair will begin Oct. 23 and end Oct. 31. Students and parents are encouraged to attend and purchase books for home libraries. Students will be invited into the media center during English classes but may also purchase books, school supplies, and various sundries during directed study and homeroom.
--Angie Branham
Spotsylvania Middle
The following students successfully auditioned for the North-Central Regional Orchestra: Joel Johnson, first chair and section leader; Will Ashby, double bass; Julia Wells, first violin; Jacob King, first alternate cello. These students will participate in this awards orchestra sponsored by the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association Nov. 3-4 at Freedom High School in Loudoun County.
--Sharon Glad
Thornburg Middle
The following students will be morning announcement commentators: Nichole Barr, Caleb Capaz, Caramia DiPalma, Danika DiPalma, Audrey Drent, Hanna Elesky, Madelyn Farmer, Brandon Fisher, Mary Hartless, Casey Henderson, Carolyn Hill, Tia Kasper, Katelyn Lothamer, M'Lodi Lytle, Megan Malone, Meghan McConnell, Brianne Strother and Rachel Tighe.
Newly elected FLBA officers for 2006-07 are: Tianna Smith, president; Josh Wright, vice president; and Miles Reynolds-Chew, reporter/historian. The FBLA is recruiting seventh- and eighth-grade students to join.
The school is collecting nonperishable food items for the Salvation Army. Please give any items that you bring in to your homeroom teacher. For each item you bring in, your name will be placed in a drawing to win a pizza lunch that you can share with two friends.
--Amanda Minter
Courtland High
These students are on the 2006-07 Homecoming Court:
Freshmen--Emma McCullough, Jessica Decatur, Frankie Mattero and Billy Bowen.
Sophomores--Dirk Hamilton, Jay Madison, Kayla Harman and Sam Testa.
Juniors--Imani Clark, Dalec Cromwell, Deirdre Grecco and Josh Harding.
Seniors--Whitney Ackers, Megan Barron, Brittaney Brown, Simeon Herring, Ana Hernandez, Karla Joseph, Kayla Patterson, Jarel Black, Jamie Ellis, Mike Houle, Pat Lilly, Colt Resnick, Adam Sheets and Anthony Smith.
FCCLA has elected officers for the coming year. They are President Letesha Clarke, Vice President Latifah Jones, Secretary Ashley Watkins, Treasurer Christina Phillips, Reporter Historian Talaya Camp and Sergeant at arms Jasmine Jackson.
To help teachers and staff discern valid e-mail from spam, please put your student's first and last name in the subject line of e-mails being sent to the school.
Dennis Hundley, Craig Buchanan, Emily Schuler and Lucas Metzler were named Business Students of the Month for October.
--Brenda Stout
Massaponax High
PSATs will be given tomorrow at school for all sophomores. Testing begins at 7:35 a.m. and lasts until 10:40 a.m.
The Athletic Booster Club is hosting the annual Ladies Powder Puff Football game Oct. 21. This is a fundraiser for the athletic boosters, which in turns benefits all athletic programs.
The end of the first grading period is Oct. 26, followed by a student holiday and teacher workday Oct. 27.
Parent-teacher conference night is Nov. 8, 6-8 p.m. All parents and guardians are encouraged to visit their student's teachers. Please call 540/710-0419, ext. 1112 for an appointment.
--Delores Taylor
Riverbend High
Riverbend High School's Literary Magazine, The Vignette, has named the following editors: Editor in chief, Amy Ellis; associate editor, Elizabeth Wills; literary editor, Sara Medina-DeVilliers; associate literary editor, Kim Alexander; design editor, Jessica Schmelia; publicity/fundraising editor, Samantha Pearl; and associate publicity/fundraising editor Jillian Quattlebaum.
Kimberly Alexander has earned the designation of AP Scholar from the College Board for outstanding academic performance in the Advanced Placement Program.
The FFA Equine Judging team competed at the "Big E" Eastern States Exposition in Massachusetts. Team members were Amy Holoman, Amber Hinegardner, Deseree Herrick. Deseree placed fourth overall, Amy was 12th overall and Amber was 33rd overall. The team placed 10th overall. All of the teams in attendance were the top two from each state.
The following students will represent Riverbend High School in the 2006-07 Senior Regional Orchestra: Gari Banfield and Krystyn Browning on viola; Jessica Stayton and Josh Wassum on cello; and Russell Wilson on bass. Simone Stephens will represent RHS in the Junior Regional Orchestra on violin.
--Mark Keith
Spotsylvania High
The fourth annual Spotsy Fest will be held on school grounds Oct. 28, 5-7 p.m. Come enjoy a hay ride, train ride, horseback riding, face painting, trick-or-treating, costume contest and more. All families are welcome.
--Deborah Todd
private schools
Blake Farm Dayschool
Students from grades one through five are studying simple machines. In science, students created compound machines that solve a problem and will present them at our Compound Machine Expo for inventors of all ages.
Students traveled to Washington via Virginia Railway Express Oct. 13, to tour the monuments on the mall as part of their field study on American history.
The kindergarten class has been studying the skeleton and organ systems. The kindergarten class traveled to the Richmond Children Science Museum to view the Grossology and Biospace exhibits.
Blake Farm Dayschool has partnered with The Salvation Army to participate in the Stop the Hunger campaign. Students are collecting nonperishable food items for local families in need. The food drive will run through Nov. 22. Donations should be placed in the Salvation Army barrel located in the school lobby.
Students voted for the school's first mascot; the bobcat won.
--Janet M. Sullivan
Fredericksburg Academy
This weekend's Fall Carnival, organized by the Parent-Faculty Association, offered a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy each other's company and take part in autumn-themed activities.
In Upper School news, nine Fredericksburg Academy students were recently honored as AP Scholars by the College Board, the organization that offers Advanced Placement exams. Michael Weaver and David Bergman were named AP Scholars with Distinction for scoring an average of at least 3.5 out of a possible score of 5 or higher on five different exams. David currently attends Clemson University.
Babak Zarin was named an AP Scholar with Honor for scoring at least 3 or higher on four different exams with an average of at least 3.25.
Brett Dameron and Sean Hutchinson, Thomas Catron, Josh Cooper, William Moss and Eric Ventura were named AP Scholars for scoring 3 or higher on three different exams.
Tomorrow, all 11th-grade students will take the PSAT (Preliminary SAT) and 10th-grade students will take the PLAN (Preliminary ACT). These tests are administered through the College Counseling office in order to prepare students for the testing aspect of the college admission process.
Middle-school students joined forces last week to raise money for the fight against breast cancer. Students participating in the Global Explorers international service organization sponsored "Lee National Denim Day," and students donated $2 each for the right to wear denim that day. More than $300 was raised.
Drama and chorus students are putting the final touches on their production of "Les Miserables," which will open in the school's Donald and Susan Reed Theater at 6 p.m. Oct. 25. Other performances will be held at 7 p.m., Oct. 28 and at 2 p.m., Oct. 29. The cast will be performing the student version of this long-running Broadway musical. All performances are open to the public.
Friday is the last day of the first quarter. Monday is a faculty work day, and there will be no classes for students that day.
--Beth Hunley
Fredericksburg Christian Schools
Fredericksburg Christian School will hold its annual Fourth Grade Rock and Gem Show Oct. 20, 11:15 a.m-12:15 p.m. at the Fredericksburg upper elementary campus.
This year the school fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders to be able to participate in the National Geographic Bee, which usually includes only seventh- and eighth-graders.
Chris Boozer won the Maymont Cross-Country Invitational Meet.
The following students have adopted Thornton Rolling Road in Spotsylvania as part of the VDOT adopt-a-road program and have been cleaning it up: Jessica Beale, Whitney Deal, Shelby Jamerson, Caitlin Ross, Joy Sanders, Jake Sullivan, Arica Vess, Leah Brady, Jeff Hopper, Eric Lubeshkoff, Sam Samulevich, Jessica Stamper, Charlie Vazquez and Bekah Zello.
--Julie Shaeffer
Gladys H. Oberle School
Students use the facilities at the YMCA located on Butler Road for physical education classes. This partnership with the YMCA not only provides them with firsthand knowledge of this important resource, it also exposes them to physical activities that they will be able to continue throughout their lives wherever they choose to live. Students received a session with a personal trainer to familiarize themselves with the equipment in the weight room and to develop an individualized training plan. Staff developed a schedule that allows students to participate in a variety of activities: on Mondays and Wednesdays the students participate in circuit training and on Tuesdays and Thursdays they swim. On Fridays, students learn about recreational sports such as basketball, racquetball, and tennis.
--Andrea C. Kenny
Grymes Memorial
The Scholastic Book Fair is this week. This is a fundraiser for the eighth-grade class gift. Eighth-grade students and parents are responsible for setting up the display and selling the books.
Grymes will host a Secondary School Fair Thursday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in duPont Hall. High schools from around the state of Virginia, along with several out-of-state schools will be represented. The public is cordially invited to attend.
The second grade will travel to Luray Caverns tomorrow to augment their learning about geology and to see a wide variety of rock formations.
The junior kindergarten and kindergarten classes will attend The Riverside Theatre Thursday for a production of "Seussical," a musical based on the books of Dr. Seuss that debuted on Broadway in 2000.
A tradition at Grymes is that students in all grades perform in a school play each year. This helps each student become more confident when speaking and performing before an audience. The third-grade play, a musical titled "The Thirteen Colonies," will be presented Thursday and Friday at 9:30 a.m. in duPont Hall at Grymes Memorial School. All are invited to attend.
First-graders will go on their annual fall hike to White Oak Falls on Thursday. This hike will provide many learning opportunities that correlate with their first grade science units. The students will do several activities related to their studies during the trip.
--Lee Berry
Holy Cross Academy
Students welcomed more than 200 grandparents Oct. 5 for the annual Grandparent's Day and Living Rosary. The grandparents were treated to a Hawaiian-themed luncheon and dessert prepared by PTO members and the Bakers-on-Call committee. Palm trees, delicate leis and flowers added a tropical flair to the event. The day finished with grandparents, students and faculty joining together to pray the rosary.
The third-grade students of Mary Sue Kosky and Suzanne Lockard entertained the visitors with the chicken dance. Sixth-graders Katherine Perez and Emily Strickland read touching tributes about their grandparents. Eighth-grader Matthew Smith assisted the third-grade students with the placement of flowers on the large-scale rosary to mark the progression of the prayers. The following middle school students helped set up, serve or assist with the event: Madeleine Chew, Rob Kosky, MacKenzie Atkins, Katharine Britton, Devon Burke, Louis Caiafa, Lizzie Carroll, Evan Despian, Sean Johnson, Catherine Kimball, Lauren Lockard, Daniel Mc Manus, Nick Mudd, Emily Strickland, Juliana Vossenberg, Anna Wright, Christine Baer, Alyssa Bornschein, Heather Burgess, Ellie Carey, John Carroll, Meggie Cook, Emily Davis, Audrey Dyer, Erin Dyer, Courtney Hoffman, Austin Johnson, Patrick Johnson, Alex McCarthy, Emily Mitchell, Monica Mitchell, Caroline Saunders, Maddie Schuster and Maggie Skinner.
Mary Sue Kosky's third-grade class is taking part in Scholastic's Classrooms Care program. The students' goal is to read 100 books by Dec. 31. If met, 100 books will be donated to kids in need through literacy partners and Kosky's students will be recognized in the Classrooms Care Hall of Fame. Parents can track the progress on a classroom poster.
The diocesan newspaper, the Arlington Catholic Herald, has a new weekly series concerning area Catholic schools. Eileen Geary, language arts and religion teacher of Holy Cross, was recently featured in the Oct. 5 issue. To read the article, go to the Arlington Herald Web site catholicher ald.com, and then to the link "Eileen Geary."
Preparation for the sacrament of confirmation will soon begin for seventh-graders. All first reception of sacraments may be celebrated in your own parish or at St. Mary's. Parishioners of St. Mary's must attend a parent meeting and the student must be a part of a student team.
The Math Olympians will meet at 3:30 p.m. today, in room 30. The meeting will be a 30-minute practice session in problem solving skills in preparation for competition.
The HCA yearbook committee is on the hunt for candid shots of class activities, field trips and sports. Please send digital photos, including name and grade, to
Email: hcayearbook@yahoo.com. The next meeting will be at 1:30 p.m., Oct. 18.
The class with the most parents in attendance at the next general PTO meeting will receive a treat. The meeting will be at 2 p.m., Oct. 19 in the school library.
If you can read this--thank a teacher! The first meeting of TLC for Teachers, the committee to recognize teachers, will be held at 1 p.m., today at Hyperion Espresso on William Street. Contact Donna Hetrick at 540/898-1272 or e-mail
Email: dphetrick@verizon.net for more information.
The cost of a field trip or another school-related activity should never prevent a student or family from participating. The Helping Hand Fund, sponsored by the PTO, is available to assist in a discreet and confidential way. To take advantage of this fund, please write a note to principal Sr. Susan Louise.
Please visit the new Holy Cross Academy Web site holycross web.com for more information.
--Stephanie Spalding
Tree of Life Christian Prep School
First quarter ends Oct. 20. Grades should be sent home the week of Oct. 30.
Awards Chapel will be held Oct. 30. Parents and friends are welcome to attend. Chapel begins at 8:15 a.m.
On the Monday following Thanksgiving break, there is a teacher's in-service and therefore no classes will be in session. Thanksgiving Break runs Nov. 20-27. School resumes Nov. 28.
The students of TLC Prep will present their Christmas Concert at the Fredericksburg Seventh-day Adventist Church Dec. 3. The service will be from 10:45 a.m. -12:25 p.m., approximately. Everyone is invited.
For more information about TLC Prep, call 540/786-2019 or e-mail
Email: TLCPrep@aol.com.
--Janet Armstrong