State Band and Choir Results
By: Dan England & Megan Poston
Six Knox County students traveled to Columbia, Mo. to compete in the state band and choir competition last week.
Natalie Clark won first at state for her solo in choir. To get to state competition, Clark had to receive a one rating in districts. Clark explained that in the competition the contestants don’t actually compete against one another. The judges judge the contestant based on their musical abilities. After receiving a one at districts, she traveled to state.
To prepare for districts, Clark chose her songs before Christmas break and worked everyday to memorize them. Clark has sang all her life, because she came from a large family and they all sang in the church choir and at CornFest. She also drinks a lot of lemon water before she sings because it is suppose to help vocal cords.
Cris Bowman, Aria Bowman, Cadie Violette, Shelby York, and Sam Skinner also all went to state for the band competition.
Sam Skinner received a one at state for percussion. Skinner joined band when he was a freshman. Skinner said, “They needed a percussionist, and I kind of just filled the spot. I started by playing bass drum and at the end of freshman year I started playing snare drum and a lot of stuff like that.”
Skinner had to show himself how to play drums for the most part, but Mr. Rayl has had an influence on him. He kept pushing Skinner and he told him to go to districts and state. “This is the first time I’ve ever even went to competitions,” said Skinner. He plans on participating in competition next year also.
Cris Bowman received a two rating for his trumpet solo.
A trumpet quartet consisting of Cris Bowman, Cadie Violette, Shelby York and Aria Bowman received a two rating.
A one is the highest rank you can get in state. One can receive a five, four, three, two, or one, five being the worst, one being the best. In order to go to state, you have to receive a one in districts.
By: Dan England & Megan Poston
Six Knox County students traveled to Columbia, Mo. to compete in the state band and choir competition last week.
Natalie Clark won first at state for her solo in choir. To get to state competition, Clark had to receive a one rating in districts. Clark explained that in the competition the contestants don’t actually compete against one another. The judges judge the contestant based on their musical abilities. After receiving a one at districts, she traveled to state.
To prepare for districts, Clark chose her songs before Christmas break and worked everyday to memorize them. Clark has sang all her life, because she came from a large family and they all sang in the church choir and at CornFest. She also drinks a lot of lemon water before she sings because it is suppose to help vocal cords.
Cris Bowman, Aria Bowman, Cadie Violette, Shelby York, and Sam Skinner also all went to state for the band competition.
Sam Skinner received a one at state for percussion. Skinner joined band when he was a freshman. Skinner said, “They needed a percussionist, and I kind of just filled the spot. I started by playing bass drum and at the end of freshman year I started playing snare drum and a lot of stuff like that.”
Skinner had to show himself how to play drums for the most part, but Mr. Rayl has had an influence on him. He kept pushing Skinner and he told him to go to districts and state. “This is the first time I’ve ever even went to competitions,” said Skinner. He plans on participating in competition next year also.
Cris Bowman received a two rating for his trumpet solo.
A trumpet quartet consisting of Cris Bowman, Cadie Violette, Shelby York and Aria Bowman received a two rating.
A one is the highest rank you can get in state. One can receive a five, four, three, two, or one, five being the worst, one being the best. In order to go to state, you have to receive a one in districts.
Freshmen Orientation
By: Karissa Hamlin
On May 9 at 7:00 p.m, Mrs. O’Haver and Mr. Brown hosted freshman orientation in the high school cafeteria. Parents were able to learn about high school during a presentation, and after the presentation, the freshman were allowed to go talk to different student organizations that were there. Parents were also notified about their child’s freshmen schedule, their education plan for the next four years, high school requirements, A + requirements, testing requirements for graduation, and the attendance policy. There was also a representative from the technical center to give students interested in Vo-Tech information. Student organizations that were there to talk to the students included HOSA, Student Council, NHS, Spanish Club, Choir, FBLA, and FFA.
By: Karissa Hamlin
On May 9 at 7:00 p.m, Mrs. O’Haver and Mr. Brown hosted freshman orientation in the high school cafeteria. Parents were able to learn about high school during a presentation, and after the presentation, the freshman were allowed to go talk to different student organizations that were there. Parents were also notified about their child’s freshmen schedule, their education plan for the next four years, high school requirements, A + requirements, testing requirements for graduation, and the attendance policy. There was also a representative from the technical center to give students interested in Vo-Tech information. Student organizations that were there to talk to the students included HOSA, Student Council, NHS, Spanish Club, Choir, FBLA, and FFA.
Senior Tea
By: Megan Poston
Senior Tea was held April 27 at the Knox County Elementary Gym. Thirteen senior girls and their guest attended the 30th Annual Senior Tea hosted by The Green Acres FCE. The FCE is the National Association for Family and Community Education. This is a volunteer organization established in 1939 by a group of rural farm women, who had a vision to strengthen adult education, to share their good sense and experience for improvement of home and community life.
The FCE has Senior Tea to congratulate the girls for finishing high school. During this time there is a prom dress style show, a guest speaker and prizes. The guest speaker this year was Betty Couch. Couch’s speech was called “Wisdom, Knowledge, Experience.” She told the young ladies some of her personal experiences which led her to gain wisdom and knowledge. Couch also told the young ladies to always keep learning to become wise, experienced and full of knowledge.
By: Megan Poston
Senior Tea was held April 27 at the Knox County Elementary Gym. Thirteen senior girls and their guest attended the 30th Annual Senior Tea hosted by The Green Acres FCE. The FCE is the National Association for Family and Community Education. This is a volunteer organization established in 1939 by a group of rural farm women, who had a vision to strengthen adult education, to share their good sense and experience for improvement of home and community life.
The FCE has Senior Tea to congratulate the girls for finishing high school. During this time there is a prom dress style show, a guest speaker and prizes. The guest speaker this year was Betty Couch. Couch’s speech was called “Wisdom, Knowledge, Experience.” She told the young ladies some of her personal experiences which led her to gain wisdom and knowledge. Couch also told the young ladies to always keep learning to become wise, experienced and full of knowledge.
Elementary Makerspace
By: Ashlyn Jones
Makerspace is an opportunity offered to grades three through five after school on Monday’s. Makerspace allows students to get their creative juices flowing in a good environment with kids their age. The kids can bring recycled items from home to use on their projects if they want like cardboard, soda bottles, used paint, etc... At the moment, they are learning how to code and discovering problems to come up with creative solutions. This is a way for the kids to think like engineers. Also the students have learned how to work together with each other and to share their opinions to get a project completed. There will be a Maker Fair on May 16th, 3:30-4:30. Everyone is invited to come and see what the kids are working on. The Makerspace Club started four weeks ago and will end when school ends.
By: Ashlyn Jones
Makerspace is an opportunity offered to grades three through five after school on Monday’s. Makerspace allows students to get their creative juices flowing in a good environment with kids their age. The kids can bring recycled items from home to use on their projects if they want like cardboard, soda bottles, used paint, etc... At the moment, they are learning how to code and discovering problems to come up with creative solutions. This is a way for the kids to think like engineers. Also the students have learned how to work together with each other and to share their opinions to get a project completed. There will be a Maker Fair on May 16th, 3:30-4:30. Everyone is invited to come and see what the kids are working on. The Makerspace Club started four weeks ago and will end when school ends.
Rotary Banquet Honors Students and Staff
By: Karissa Hamlin
The Knox County Rotary Club held a banquet in honor of the top ten percent of each middle school and high school class on Monday, May 2 in the Knox County Cafeteria at 6:30 p.m. They also recognized faculty and staff that have been at Knox County for intervals of five years.
Eleven middle school students were recognized at the banquet. Students of the sixth-grade class that received this honor included Zachary Jansen, Branson Miller, and Taylor Walker. Students of the seventh-grade class that received this honor included Kaitlin Campbell, Landon Hubble, Coltin Morrow, and Alyssa Peavler. Students of the eighth-grade class that received this honor included John England, Arysta Snyder, and Cadie Violette.
Twenty one high school students were recognized at the banquet. Students of the ninth-grade class that received this honor included Brandi Carlyle, Natalie Clark, Katie Hamlin, Landon Hodge, Sidney Miller, Abigale Stewart, Shelby York, and and Chelsea Zahn. Students of the tenth-grade that received this honor included Lindsey Alexander, Michael Carlson, Jullian Hurst, Laura Mayer, and Hayden Miller. Eleventh-grade students that received this honor included Zoe Gudehus, Madison McCabe, Jacobi Miller, Samuel Skinner, and Kyle Strange, and students of the twelfth-grade that received this honor included Kaitlin Gibbons, Megan Poston, and Marissa York.
Seventeen members of the Knox County faculty and staff were honored for their dedicated service to Knox County Schools. Faculty and staff honored for five years of service included Lacy Hayes, Amy McNabb, Mike O’Haver, Stacy O’Haver, Zach Summers, and Brittney Trimble. Faculty and staff recognized for ten years included Rhonda Cardwell and Melissa Vannoy. Those recognized for fifteen years included Brianna Couch, Bobbette Kelley, Kathy Palmer, and Lisa Spilker. Al Grant was honored for 25 years of service, while Dean Woods was honored for twenty-five years. Faculty and Staff that have been at Knox County thirty years included Vickie Miller. Bob Kincaid was recognized for thirty-five years of service, and for forty-five years of service Marsha Burton was honored.
By: Karissa Hamlin
The Knox County Rotary Club held a banquet in honor of the top ten percent of each middle school and high school class on Monday, May 2 in the Knox County Cafeteria at 6:30 p.m. They also recognized faculty and staff that have been at Knox County for intervals of five years.
Eleven middle school students were recognized at the banquet. Students of the sixth-grade class that received this honor included Zachary Jansen, Branson Miller, and Taylor Walker. Students of the seventh-grade class that received this honor included Kaitlin Campbell, Landon Hubble, Coltin Morrow, and Alyssa Peavler. Students of the eighth-grade class that received this honor included John England, Arysta Snyder, and Cadie Violette.
Twenty one high school students were recognized at the banquet. Students of the ninth-grade class that received this honor included Brandi Carlyle, Natalie Clark, Katie Hamlin, Landon Hodge, Sidney Miller, Abigale Stewart, Shelby York, and and Chelsea Zahn. Students of the tenth-grade that received this honor included Lindsey Alexander, Michael Carlson, Jullian Hurst, Laura Mayer, and Hayden Miller. Eleventh-grade students that received this honor included Zoe Gudehus, Madison McCabe, Jacobi Miller, Samuel Skinner, and Kyle Strange, and students of the twelfth-grade that received this honor included Kaitlin Gibbons, Megan Poston, and Marissa York.
Seventeen members of the Knox County faculty and staff were honored for their dedicated service to Knox County Schools. Faculty and staff honored for five years of service included Lacy Hayes, Amy McNabb, Mike O’Haver, Stacy O’Haver, Zach Summers, and Brittney Trimble. Faculty and staff recognized for ten years included Rhonda Cardwell and Melissa Vannoy. Those recognized for fifteen years included Brianna Couch, Bobbette Kelley, Kathy Palmer, and Lisa Spilker. Al Grant was honored for 25 years of service, while Dean Woods was honored for twenty-five years. Faculty and Staff that have been at Knox County thirty years included Vickie Miller. Bob Kincaid was recognized for thirty-five years of service, and for forty-five years of service Marsha Burton was honored.
Kincaid Wins Top Honors
By: Karissa Hamlin
Ian Kincaid won the Missouri FFA Forest Management Proficiency award at the 88th Missouri FFA Convention this past week .
Kincaid, a junior at Knox County R-I High School, is the son of John and Melanie Kincaid.
“It really opened my eyes to how far I can go as an individual if I put toward the effort,” said Ian Kincaid after being named state champion.
Kincaid received his award of a marble plaque at the second General Session at State Convention. Applying for this award consisted of Kincaid filling out an application describing his SAE and documenting photos of his work throughout the year. To fulfill his SAE of forest management, he works part-time for Hardwood Express, cuts and moves wood for private buyers, and also works part time for his grandfather by logging.
His next big goal in FFA that he hopes to accomplish is to try and put his SAE into business sales to help pay for college. Kincaid plans to compete with his SAE next year at the national level and attend national convention.
Forest Management Proficiency is one of 48 proficiency award areas recognized at the state level. Missouri Tree Farm System sponsored this award.
By: Karissa Hamlin
Ian Kincaid won the Missouri FFA Forest Management Proficiency award at the 88th Missouri FFA Convention this past week .
Kincaid, a junior at Knox County R-I High School, is the son of John and Melanie Kincaid.
“It really opened my eyes to how far I can go as an individual if I put toward the effort,” said Ian Kincaid after being named state champion.
Kincaid received his award of a marble plaque at the second General Session at State Convention. Applying for this award consisted of Kincaid filling out an application describing his SAE and documenting photos of his work throughout the year. To fulfill his SAE of forest management, he works part-time for Hardwood Express, cuts and moves wood for private buyers, and also works part time for his grandfather by logging.
His next big goal in FFA that he hopes to accomplish is to try and put his SAE into business sales to help pay for college. Kincaid plans to compete with his SAE next year at the national level and attend national convention.
Forest Management Proficiency is one of 48 proficiency award areas recognized at the state level. Missouri Tree Farm System sponsored this award.
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March Student of the Month
By: Dan England The March Knox County Student of the Month middle schoolers are Matilyn Parrish, Coltin Morrow, and Grace Becker. Matilyn Parrish is the sixth-grade daughter of Aaron Parrish and Heather Parrish. She received Student of the Month because of her leadership skills, good citizenship, good behavior, and her academic curiosity. Parrish’s interests are hunting. She is involved in basketball as an extracurricular activity and she says she mostly excels in science and English. Parrish’s future goals are to become good at art and have a business of her own. Coltin Morrow is the seventh-grade son of Jeff and Diane Morrow. He was chosen to be Student of the Month because of his good leadership, his good attitude toward others, he has been respectful to his peers and teachers, he has shown good character, good citizenship, and good behavior. Morrow’s interests are sports and hunting. Extracurricular activities he is involved in are basketball, baseball, and track. Morrow says he does his best work in science. Morrow’s future goals are to be good at sports and to receive a good education. Grace Becker is the eighth-grade daughter of Robert and Anna Becker. Becker was chosen for Student of the Month because of her good leadership, her attitude toward others, her respectfulness to her peers and teachers, her good character, citizenship, behavior, and her academic curiosity. Her interests include track, hunting, swimming, and volleyball. Becker is involved in track and Student Council for extracurricular activities. She says mostly excels in science and Language Arts. Becker's future goals are to go to college and to become a biologist or a geneticist. |
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Art Show at Truman
By: Ashlyn Jones
Knox County school hosted an art competition at Truman State University on April 2nd. Twelve students from Knox County, along with eighteen students from other schools, attended. While there the students were able to see their artwork displayed at a college level. There were also two hour-long classes that the students could participate in, which consisted of making clay tiles and t-shirts. While there, Knox County students were also given a tour of the school.
Several Knox County students received honors. Shelby Novinger earned first place on her book sculpture and second place on her stepping stone sculpture. Lindsey Howe received first place on her zentangle mixed media, Jared Carlson earned second place on his digital drawing, Taylor Goodwin received second place on her giraffe printmaking, Michelle Aaronson received third place on her mixed media ink, Taylor Stewart got an honorable mention on her book sculpture, Sarha Sanders got an honorable mention on her pen/ink, and Joe Holt earned an honorable mention on his digital drawing.
By: Ashlyn Jones
Knox County school hosted an art competition at Truman State University on April 2nd. Twelve students from Knox County, along with eighteen students from other schools, attended. While there the students were able to see their artwork displayed at a college level. There were also two hour-long classes that the students could participate in, which consisted of making clay tiles and t-shirts. While there, Knox County students were also given a tour of the school.
Several Knox County students received honors. Shelby Novinger earned first place on her book sculpture and second place on her stepping stone sculpture. Lindsey Howe received first place on her zentangle mixed media, Jared Carlson earned second place on his digital drawing, Taylor Goodwin received second place on her giraffe printmaking, Michelle Aaronson received third place on her mixed media ink, Taylor Stewart got an honorable mention on her book sculpture, Sarha Sanders got an honorable mention on her pen/ink, and Joe Holt earned an honorable mention on his digital drawing.
Students Achieve High FFA Honors
By: Karissa Hamlin
Seniors, Justyne Couch, Kaitlyn Gibbons, and Becca Sparks all received their FFA State degree this year and will be recognized at State Convention on Friday, April 22, during the closing session. They will be handed a certificate and a state degree pen for their FFA jacket when walking across stage, as well as being recognized for their achievements.
To achieve this goal, these ladies completed an application that was over nine pages about their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects and included at least three years of complete records. Also, to receive your state degree you have to hit a certain number of points, which was 554 this year. This number is based off of taking all the people in the state that applied, which determines what the top percent is and that becomes the threshold and everyone above that gets their degree. The application has to be signed by a parent, employer, advisor, and administrator that will defend you saying that you have satisfactory school records, attendance, work ethic, and record keeping. A story that is about equivalent to a page, single spaced, typed where you have to describe various skills you have learned that are selected from a set list of standard skills from the state is required as well. This gives each kids the opportunity to explain how they’ve learned a set of skills t and it’s fair to all the kids applying.
Kaitlyn Gibbon has numerous SAE’s which include beef cattle production, forage production, and diversified crop production. Justyn Couch’s SAE is Agricultural education and Becca Spark’s SAE is beef production. Only seven percent of FFA members receive this award from the entire state of Missouri each year. After receiving your state degree, that makes you eligible to apply for your American degree. Before being able to apply for your American degree, you must be out of high school for a year.
Past State degree winners, Nat Harder, Gracie Hunziker, Alex Hamlin, Dei Burgess, and Bryce Cardwell are all applying for their American Degree this year.
By: Karissa Hamlin
Seniors, Justyne Couch, Kaitlyn Gibbons, and Becca Sparks all received their FFA State degree this year and will be recognized at State Convention on Friday, April 22, during the closing session. They will be handed a certificate and a state degree pen for their FFA jacket when walking across stage, as well as being recognized for their achievements.
To achieve this goal, these ladies completed an application that was over nine pages about their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects and included at least three years of complete records. Also, to receive your state degree you have to hit a certain number of points, which was 554 this year. This number is based off of taking all the people in the state that applied, which determines what the top percent is and that becomes the threshold and everyone above that gets their degree. The application has to be signed by a parent, employer, advisor, and administrator that will defend you saying that you have satisfactory school records, attendance, work ethic, and record keeping. A story that is about equivalent to a page, single spaced, typed where you have to describe various skills you have learned that are selected from a set list of standard skills from the state is required as well. This gives each kids the opportunity to explain how they’ve learned a set of skills t and it’s fair to all the kids applying.
Kaitlyn Gibbon has numerous SAE’s which include beef cattle production, forage production, and diversified crop production. Justyn Couch’s SAE is Agricultural education and Becca Spark’s SAE is beef production. Only seven percent of FFA members receive this award from the entire state of Missouri each year. After receiving your state degree, that makes you eligible to apply for your American degree. Before being able to apply for your American degree, you must be out of high school for a year.
Past State degree winners, Nat Harder, Gracie Hunziker, Alex Hamlin, Dei Burgess, and Bryce Cardwell are all applying for their American Degree this year.
"A Midsummer's Night Dream"
By: Dan England
The Knox County Drama Department put on a theatre production of Shakespeare's, "A Midsummer’s Night Dream" on April 8-10 at the Knox County Gymnasium.
"A Midsummer's Night Dream," takes place in the 1950's. Four lovers get lost in the woods and must learn to distinguish between real life and the false visions brought upon them by creatures and beings within the forest. Meanwhile, the fairy king and queen must settle their differences before the whole forest is turned upside down.
The production is put on by director Megan Dice, Truman State University student. The cast included Jared Carlson, Zoe Gudehus, Samantha Bowman, Daniel England, Taylor Goodwin, Natalie Clark, Aria Bowman, Sahra Sanders, Brandi Carlyle, Taylor Stewart, and Joseph Chatelain.
Co-directing the play was Gabriel Shahan; Emily Sanders was the stage manager; the lights manager was Mercedes Licht; the assistant stage manager/sound manager was Grace McCauley; hair and makeup were Ember McCauley and Abby Stewart, and the fight scene coordinator was Madison Yoakum.
By: Dan England
The Knox County Drama Department put on a theatre production of Shakespeare's, "A Midsummer’s Night Dream" on April 8-10 at the Knox County Gymnasium.
"A Midsummer's Night Dream," takes place in the 1950's. Four lovers get lost in the woods and must learn to distinguish between real life and the false visions brought upon them by creatures and beings within the forest. Meanwhile, the fairy king and queen must settle their differences before the whole forest is turned upside down.
The production is put on by director Megan Dice, Truman State University student. The cast included Jared Carlson, Zoe Gudehus, Samantha Bowman, Daniel England, Taylor Goodwin, Natalie Clark, Aria Bowman, Sahra Sanders, Brandi Carlyle, Taylor Stewart, and Joseph Chatelain.
Co-directing the play was Gabriel Shahan; Emily Sanders was the stage manager; the lights manager was Mercedes Licht; the assistant stage manager/sound manager was Grace McCauley; hair and makeup were Ember McCauley and Abby Stewart, and the fight scene coordinator was Madison Yoakum.
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Culver Writing Conference
By: Karissa Hamlin Grace Becker, daughter of Robert and Anna Becker of Rutledge, received a certificate for placing fourth in the Culver-Stockton Young Writers’ Conference on Wednesday, March 30th in Canton. Becker was one of only three middle school students in attendance, and her essay was graded against over 100 high school students. For the contest, Becker had a list of words given to her and she chose one that she felt fit her topic. After choosing one word, she then had to choose eight more abstract words relating to her topic. Becker was given 20 minutes to write a nonfiction personal account that had impacted her life. The essays were then rated by Culver-Stockton students under the direction of Dr. Steven Long, Associate Professor of English. Knox County students also attending included Zach Winter, Jazzlynn Holman, and Zachary English. The students were accompanied by Staci English and Rick Winter. |
Students attending the conference included, Zach Winter, Jazzlyn Holman, Grace Becker, and Zach English.
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Building Relationships with Local Authorities
By: Megan Poston
The Knox County School District would like to welcome the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The Missouri Highway Patrol has also contacted other school across Missouri to have troopers walk the halls during school hours starting at the beginning of April. They will also be providing programs about safety laws and state laws during school hours.
“Looking at newspaper headlines, law enforcement are shed in a bad light, and I think that they are trying to change that by walking in the halls and letting people see them as actual people. People who live and work in our community and protect us,” says Principal, Brian Brown.
Another opportunity that will be offered to students from the state troopers are ride longs. If students are interested in law enforcement they can sign up to have a ride along with a state trooper for one hour, once a week.
The Missouri State Patrol will also be at Knox County on April 13th, to present to all high school students about seatbelt safety from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
By: Megan Poston
The Knox County School District would like to welcome the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The Missouri Highway Patrol has also contacted other school across Missouri to have troopers walk the halls during school hours starting at the beginning of April. They will also be providing programs about safety laws and state laws during school hours.
“Looking at newspaper headlines, law enforcement are shed in a bad light, and I think that they are trying to change that by walking in the halls and letting people see them as actual people. People who live and work in our community and protect us,” says Principal, Brian Brown.
Another opportunity that will be offered to students from the state troopers are ride longs. If students are interested in law enforcement they can sign up to have a ride along with a state trooper for one hour, once a week.
The Missouri State Patrol will also be at Knox County on April 13th, to present to all high school students about seatbelt safety from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Easter Traditions Around the World
By: Megan Poston
Easter traditions vary across the world. In the United States, it is common for families to celebrate Easter by going on an egg hunt. Easter egg hunts also take place in Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, Canada, Malaysia, Australia, Brazil, India, and the Philippines.
The Easter bunny is also common in Canada and Australia, but the Easter hare is well known in Sweden, Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The Easter bunny and Easter hare are both known for delivering sweets to young children. Rabbits are considered a pest in Australia for causing damage to the environment to the environment, so there is a strong campaign to give Easter bilbies. Bilbies are native to Australia and are endangered.
In France, there is not an Easter bunny. They have Easter bells, back from Rome, that send children chocolate. But there is a small town in France, Haux, where an giant omelette is made with 4,500 eggs that will feed over 1,000 people in the town square. They do this because there is a story that says when Napoleon and his army were traveling through the south of France, they stopped in a small town and ate omelettes. Napoleon liked it so much he ordered the townspeople to get all their eggs and make a giant omelette for his army the next day.
Whatever Easter tradition you follow, we wish you a Happy Easter.
By: Megan Poston
Easter traditions vary across the world. In the United States, it is common for families to celebrate Easter by going on an egg hunt. Easter egg hunts also take place in Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, Canada, Malaysia, Australia, Brazil, India, and the Philippines.
The Easter bunny is also common in Canada and Australia, but the Easter hare is well known in Sweden, Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The Easter bunny and Easter hare are both known for delivering sweets to young children. Rabbits are considered a pest in Australia for causing damage to the environment to the environment, so there is a strong campaign to give Easter bilbies. Bilbies are native to Australia and are endangered.
In France, there is not an Easter bunny. They have Easter bells, back from Rome, that send children chocolate. But there is a small town in France, Haux, where an giant omelette is made with 4,500 eggs that will feed over 1,000 people in the town square. They do this because there is a story that says when Napoleon and his army were traveling through the south of France, they stopped in a small town and ate omelettes. Napoleon liked it so much he ordered the townspeople to get all their eggs and make a giant omelette for his army the next day.
Whatever Easter tradition you follow, we wish you a Happy Easter.
Art Trip
By: Ashlyn Jones
Mrs. Baker took twelve Art students to Culver this past week. While there they got to observe and participate in a workshop of their choice to learn a new style of art. They even had the option of bringing a piece of their own artwork so that it could be judged. There were workshops that included different textured paper, acrylic painting, pottery, zen tangles, cartooning, and figure drawing. Students were able to improve their artistic knowledge and meet fellow art students around their area at the same time.
By: Ashlyn Jones
Mrs. Baker took twelve Art students to Culver this past week. While there they got to observe and participate in a workshop of their choice to learn a new style of art. They even had the option of bringing a piece of their own artwork so that it could be judged. There were workshops that included different textured paper, acrylic painting, pottery, zen tangles, cartooning, and figure drawing. Students were able to improve their artistic knowledge and meet fellow art students around their area at the same time.
FFA Contest Teams
By: Karissa Hamlin
On March 30th Knox County’s FFA chapter took the following contest teams to North Shelby to compete: livestock, farm management, ag mechanics, dairy foods, horticulture, and entomology. The livestock team consists of: Tanner Ellison, Lindsey Hubble, Garyn Miller, and Skye Bugh. The Farm Management team consists of: Steven Powers, Justyne Couch, and Shelton Boatman. The Ag Mechanics team consists of: Kaitlyn Gibbons, Becca Sparks, Ian Kincaid, and Jacob Bryant. The Dairy Foods contest team consists of: Emily Nichols, Amber Morgret, Reagan Winter, and Serena McCarty. The Horticulture team consists of: Kaylin Jones, Jennah Strange, Chelsea Zahn, and Theresa Boatman. The Entomology team consists of: Olexus Strange, Abby Parrish, and Audrey Howe.
At the North Shelby contest the Livestock team placed 15th overall and Ag Mechanics placed 7th overall. Individual rewards included Tanner Ellison who placed 6th overall and Justyne Couch who placed 20th overall. The individual placings were out of 1496 participants. Districts will be held next week in Columbia. If any of the teams advance from districts to state and place at state, they will be recognized at state convention, which is held on April 21 and April 22.
By: Karissa Hamlin
On March 30th Knox County’s FFA chapter took the following contest teams to North Shelby to compete: livestock, farm management, ag mechanics, dairy foods, horticulture, and entomology. The livestock team consists of: Tanner Ellison, Lindsey Hubble, Garyn Miller, and Skye Bugh. The Farm Management team consists of: Steven Powers, Justyne Couch, and Shelton Boatman. The Ag Mechanics team consists of: Kaitlyn Gibbons, Becca Sparks, Ian Kincaid, and Jacob Bryant. The Dairy Foods contest team consists of: Emily Nichols, Amber Morgret, Reagan Winter, and Serena McCarty. The Horticulture team consists of: Kaylin Jones, Jennah Strange, Chelsea Zahn, and Theresa Boatman. The Entomology team consists of: Olexus Strange, Abby Parrish, and Audrey Howe.
At the North Shelby contest the Livestock team placed 15th overall and Ag Mechanics placed 7th overall. Individual rewards included Tanner Ellison who placed 6th overall and Justyne Couch who placed 20th overall. The individual placings were out of 1496 participants. Districts will be held next week in Columbia. If any of the teams advance from districts to state and place at state, they will be recognized at state convention, which is held on April 21 and April 22.
Patriot's Pen and Voice of Democracy Winners
By: Karissa Hamlin
“Part of the mission of the Veterans of Foreign Wars is promoting patriotism among our youth. The Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy competitions are two programs that accomplish that goal,” said Keith Gudehus.
Every year, students in 6th to 8th grade are given the opportunity to participate in The Patriot’s Pen. To participate, students must write a 400-450 word essay, based on a theme they are given. The essay is then judged at the local level, and local winners are sent to our district headquarters to compete there. About every one in every 15 entries from the local level are forwarded to the district headquarters. Whoever wins at the district level gets their essay sent on to compete at the state-level. If their essay wins at the state level they are eligible to compete at the national level.
Just like the Patriot’s Pen, high school students are given the same opportunity, but it’s called the Voice of Democracy and it requires a voice recording of the student reading their essay they have written. Local winners can receive cash awards, as much as $100, and as the essay moves up each level of competition, the student can win this much or more. National winners are taken to Washington, D.C. to accept their award, and they can win as much as $30,000 in cash and scholarships.
“More important than the cash awards is the basic goal of this program, which is to challenge our young citizens to critically examine the opportunities and advantages of the country in which they live,” said Gudehus. Students are suppose to focus on the areas where America is exceptionally great and extraordinary compared to other countries. The organization wants to recognize those that are outstanding in communicating and understanding these things to others.
This year's Voice of Democracy winner was Jacobi Miller. He received first place locally, and second place at the district level. The Patriot’s Pen winners included fourth place, Shauni Skyes, third place Nick Hamlin, second place Zach Winter, and first place Jazzlynn Holman. Holman also received second at districts.
By: Karissa Hamlin
“Part of the mission of the Veterans of Foreign Wars is promoting patriotism among our youth. The Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy competitions are two programs that accomplish that goal,” said Keith Gudehus.
Every year, students in 6th to 8th grade are given the opportunity to participate in The Patriot’s Pen. To participate, students must write a 400-450 word essay, based on a theme they are given. The essay is then judged at the local level, and local winners are sent to our district headquarters to compete there. About every one in every 15 entries from the local level are forwarded to the district headquarters. Whoever wins at the district level gets their essay sent on to compete at the state-level. If their essay wins at the state level they are eligible to compete at the national level.
Just like the Patriot’s Pen, high school students are given the same opportunity, but it’s called the Voice of Democracy and it requires a voice recording of the student reading their essay they have written. Local winners can receive cash awards, as much as $100, and as the essay moves up each level of competition, the student can win this much or more. National winners are taken to Washington, D.C. to accept their award, and they can win as much as $30,000 in cash and scholarships.
“More important than the cash awards is the basic goal of this program, which is to challenge our young citizens to critically examine the opportunities and advantages of the country in which they live,” said Gudehus. Students are suppose to focus on the areas where America is exceptionally great and extraordinary compared to other countries. The organization wants to recognize those that are outstanding in communicating and understanding these things to others.
This year's Voice of Democracy winner was Jacobi Miller. He received first place locally, and second place at the district level. The Patriot’s Pen winners included fourth place, Shauni Skyes, third place Nick Hamlin, second place Zach Winter, and first place Jazzlynn Holman. Holman also received second at districts.
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February Student of the Month
By: Dan England This year, the middle school introduced a new reward type system called Student of the Month. Student of the Month is when teachers nominate students from each middle school grade. Then one name from each class is drawn, and those three students are the Student of the Month. Students of the month receive a prize, and their picture is hung up in the middle school. At the end of the semester, all of the students that were nominated will be entered to win a semester prize. The February Knox County Student of the Month students are Taylor Walker, Kaitlin Campbell, and Maddie Winter. Taylor Walker is the sixth-grade daughter of Josh and Steph Kincaid. She was chosen for Student of the Month because she is respectful to peers and teachers, shows good character, and shows good behavior. Walker is interested in basketball and softball, and is involved in Student Council and Yearbook. She excels mostly in math, science, and language arts. Walker’s future goals are to go to Mizzou and to become a senator. Kaitlin Campbell is the seventh-grade daughter of Chris and Jamie Campbell. Campbell’s interests includes basketball and 4-H, and she is involved in are softball, basketball, 4-H, and golf. Campbell says she excels in math and social studies. Campbell’s future goals are to be remembered in a good way and to go to college. Maddie Winter is the eighth-grade daughter of Rick Winter and Scherry Hamlin. Winter’s interests are reading and watching old movies. She says excels in language arts and art. Winter’s future goals are to go to Truman State University and to travel the world. |
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Strange Chosen as an Area FFA Officer
By: Ashlyn Jones
Jennah Strange has been named the Area III Historian for the 2016-2017 school year. Strange was up against sixteen other candidates for this office. Her duties start now and will continue through March of next year. Her position will include helping organize events for the other twenty-three schools in Area III such as Area Barnwarming, banquet, and leadership conferences.
To earn this spot, Strange had to fill out a state degree application, have enough leadership points, take a knowledge test, and do two rounds of interviews. Jennah says this has been a dream of hers since freshman year and the support she received from her classmates was appreciated. She says she loves the FFA program itself and is honored to be the Historian for our area. Strange said she would love to be a state officer, but she would rather represent her school and the area itself. She hopes to show others how fun and exciting FFA is, as well as encouraging others to join the organization.
By: Ashlyn Jones
Jennah Strange has been named the Area III Historian for the 2016-2017 school year. Strange was up against sixteen other candidates for this office. Her duties start now and will continue through March of next year. Her position will include helping organize events for the other twenty-three schools in Area III such as Area Barnwarming, banquet, and leadership conferences.
To earn this spot, Strange had to fill out a state degree application, have enough leadership points, take a knowledge test, and do two rounds of interviews. Jennah says this has been a dream of hers since freshman year and the support she received from her classmates was appreciated. She says she loves the FFA program itself and is honored to be the Historian for our area. Strange said she would love to be a state officer, but she would rather represent her school and the area itself. She hopes to show others how fun and exciting FFA is, as well as encouraging others to join the organization.
Campus Bowl
By: Megan Poston
This year’s Varsity Campus Bowl members are Tim Jones, Zoe Gudehus, Shelton Boatman, Marissa York, Sam Skinner, Zach Boatman, Kaitlin Gibbons, and Justyne Couch. The Junior Varsity members include Zane Hubble, Isaac Williams, Zach Winter, Maddie Winter, Joe Chatelain, Nash Miller, Wes Ward, Abby Stewart, Shelby York, and Brandi Carlyle.
Last year, the Knox County Campus Bowl was 6-10. This year, they lost to North Shelby, which was their first loss, but both JV and Varsity won against Putnam and Canton. In the Canton game, the varsity team was able to win in a overtime.
Amy McNabb, the varsity coach, is excited for many reasons this season. “ This is my first year as varsity coach, so I'm excited about that. It's also nice to get to work with students that I have in class and see that what we're learning makes a difference in our matches. I think we've got a good team this year with a wide variety of knowledge.”
McNabb knows that this season will not be easy. “There are some tough schools in our conference, but I like a challenge. We've got the home advantage for districts this year and I think we've got a chance to do well.”
The JV team is coached by Libby Moser.
We wish the best of luck to the Campus Bowl team.
By: Megan Poston
This year’s Varsity Campus Bowl members are Tim Jones, Zoe Gudehus, Shelton Boatman, Marissa York, Sam Skinner, Zach Boatman, Kaitlin Gibbons, and Justyne Couch. The Junior Varsity members include Zane Hubble, Isaac Williams, Zach Winter, Maddie Winter, Joe Chatelain, Nash Miller, Wes Ward, Abby Stewart, Shelby York, and Brandi Carlyle.
Last year, the Knox County Campus Bowl was 6-10. This year, they lost to North Shelby, which was their first loss, but both JV and Varsity won against Putnam and Canton. In the Canton game, the varsity team was able to win in a overtime.
Amy McNabb, the varsity coach, is excited for many reasons this season. “ This is my first year as varsity coach, so I'm excited about that. It's also nice to get to work with students that I have in class and see that what we're learning makes a difference in our matches. I think we've got a good team this year with a wide variety of knowledge.”
McNabb knows that this season will not be easy. “There are some tough schools in our conference, but I like a challenge. We've got the home advantage for districts this year and I think we've got a chance to do well.”
The JV team is coached by Libby Moser.
We wish the best of luck to the Campus Bowl team.
NHS Inductees
By: Karissa Hamlin
On Tuesday, March 9, fourteen new members were inducted into National Honor Society. Inductees included the following: Lindsey Alexander, Michael Carlson, Taylor Goodwin, Angel Harrison, Hays Klocke, Laura Mayer, Serena McCarty, Hayden Miller, Amber Morgret, Abby Parrish, Noah Talton, and Reagan Winter. At the ceremony, new members took the NHS Pledge, lit a candle that represented the spirit of NHS, and signed the NHS member ledger that has been used since 1986. Current members spoke during the ceremony explaining the background of NHS, as well as traditions of the organization.
To be accepted into NHS at Knox County, students must be a sophomore, junior, or senior that have attended Knox County for at least one semester. They also must have at least a 9.0 cumulative grade point average and fill out an application that shows evidence of leadership, service, and character. The applications turned in are then voted on by a council of high school teachers.
“NHS is a national organization that recognizes academic excellence, leadership, service, and character among high school students,” said Ms. McNabb, the NHS sponsor. NHS members at Knox County volunteer at eight community service events per year. NHS also sponsors the Pink Out Basketball Game and sell t-shirts to help raise money for the Knox County Cancer Fund. Members of the NHS program are eligible to apply for scholarships through this organization, and colleges view being an NHS member as a great accomplishment.
By: Karissa Hamlin
On Tuesday, March 9, fourteen new members were inducted into National Honor Society. Inductees included the following: Lindsey Alexander, Michael Carlson, Taylor Goodwin, Angel Harrison, Hays Klocke, Laura Mayer, Serena McCarty, Hayden Miller, Amber Morgret, Abby Parrish, Noah Talton, and Reagan Winter. At the ceremony, new members took the NHS Pledge, lit a candle that represented the spirit of NHS, and signed the NHS member ledger that has been used since 1986. Current members spoke during the ceremony explaining the background of NHS, as well as traditions of the organization.
To be accepted into NHS at Knox County, students must be a sophomore, junior, or senior that have attended Knox County for at least one semester. They also must have at least a 9.0 cumulative grade point average and fill out an application that shows evidence of leadership, service, and character. The applications turned in are then voted on by a council of high school teachers.
“NHS is a national organization that recognizes academic excellence, leadership, service, and character among high school students,” said Ms. McNabb, the NHS sponsor. NHS members at Knox County volunteer at eight community service events per year. NHS also sponsors the Pink Out Basketball Game and sell t-shirts to help raise money for the Knox County Cancer Fund. Members of the NHS program are eligible to apply for scholarships through this organization, and colleges view being an NHS member as a great accomplishment.
Pictured: Front Row-Reagan Winter, Serena McCarty, Laura Mayer, Amber Morgret, Abby Parrish, Angel Harrison, Taylor Goodwin, and Lindsey Alexander. Back Row-Michael Carlson, Hayden Miller, Noah Talton, and Hays Klocke
FBLA Districts
FBLA members attended and competed in FBLA Districts in February. Participants included Hays Klocke, Kyle Strange, Shane Clary, Marissa York, and Katlyn Kent. Klocke, Clary, and Strange placed 3rd in Sports Management and Advertising. York placed 1st in Accounting I and will compete at the state level in Jefferson City.
FBLA members attended and competed in FBLA Districts in February. Participants included Hays Klocke, Kyle Strange, Shane Clary, Marissa York, and Katlyn Kent. Klocke, Clary, and Strange placed 3rd in Sports Management and Advertising. York placed 1st in Accounting I and will compete at the state level in Jefferson City.
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January Student of the Month
By: Dan England The January Knox County Student of the Month middle schoolers are Angel Carr, Kinsley Johnson, and Harley Powers. Angel Carr is the sixth-grade daughter of Katie Yoakum and Chris Carr. Carr was nominated for Student of the Month because she is respectful to her peers and teachers, shows good character, and good behavior. Although Carr isn’t involved in any extracurricular activities, she has an interest in art and her grades. She says she excels mostly in science. Carr’s future goals are to join the cheerleading team and to go to college to become a teacher. Kinsley Johnson is the seventh-grade daughter of Glenn and Ashley Johnson. She was chosen to be Student of the Month because she expresses leadership, has a good attitude toward others, is respectful to peers and teachers, shows good character, citizenship, behavior, and academic curiosity. Johnson’s interests include playing sports, showing, swimming, and hanging out with her friends. Extracurricular activities she is involved in are basketball, softball, and showing pigs. Johnson excels in band, social studies, language arts, science, and math. Johnson’s future goals are to become a professional sports player and have a family. Harley Powers is the eighth-grade daughter of Joe and Tara Powers. She was chosen as a Student of the Month because she has shown leadership, has had a good attitude toward others, has been respectful to her classmates and teachers, has shown good good character, citizenship, behavior, and academic curiosity. Powers’ interests are cooking and reading, and is involved in band as an extracurricular activity. She excels in social studies and science. Powers’ future goals are to finish high school and to own her own restaurant. |
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2016 Courtwarming king- Skyler Sullens
2016 Courtwarming queen- marissa York
2016 Courtwarming candidates |
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Knox County Dance and Cheer
By: Ashlyn Jones
By: Ashlyn Jones
Courtwarming Week
By: Dan England
By: Dan England
Elvis Eagle Reading Club
The High School Student Council, along with Elvis Eagle sponsors a reading program for elementary grades. This year marked the 20th anniversary for the event. The students’ goal was to read 200 minutes over the course of 13 days. 64 students read at least this amount in their free-time and were recognized at the Schuyler vs. Knox game, as well as enjoyed ice cream with the high school athletes to celebrate their accomplishments.
The High School Student Council, along with Elvis Eagle sponsors a reading program for elementary grades. This year marked the 20th anniversary for the event. The students’ goal was to read 200 minutes over the course of 13 days. 64 students read at least this amount in their free-time and were recognized at the Schuyler vs. Knox game, as well as enjoyed ice cream with the high school athletes to celebrate their accomplishments.
Super Bowl Preview
By: Shane Clary
By: Shane Clary
Prom 2016: A Night in Paris
By: Megan Poston
By: Megan Poston
Valentine's Day Editorial
By: Karissa Hamlin
By: Karissa Hamlin
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December Student of the Month
By: Dan England This year, the middle school introduced a new reward type system called Student of the Month. Student of the Month is when teachers nominate students from each middle school grade. Then one name from each class is drawn, and those three students are the Student of the Month. Students of the month receive a prize, and their picture is hung up in the middle school. At the end of the semester, all of the students that were nominated will be entered to win a semester prize. The December Knox County Student of the Month middle schoolers are Patrick Ogden, Elliott Ogden, and John England. Patrick Ogden is the sixth-grade son of Elizabeth Ogden. He was nominated for Student of the Month because he has a great attitude toward others, he is respectful to his friends and teachers, he has a good character, and he will redo assignments to improve his score. Ogden’s interests includes football, basketball, and quiz bowl. He is involved in Quiz Bowl and Student Council. Ogden excels in math, study skills, and social studies. Ogden’s future goal is to get 14 touchdowns in football. Elliot Ogden is the seventh-grade son of Elizabeth Ogden. He was nominated for Student of the Month because he is respectful to his peers and teachers, and he has academic curiosity. Ogden’s interests are football, basketball, quiz bowl, being in the church group, camping, and swimming. The extracurricular activities Ogden participates in are football, basketball, and quiz bowl. Ogden excels in English, Social Studies, and Science. Ogden’s future goals are to become a professional football player and to be a leader. John England is the eighth-grade son of Derek and Anaise England. He was chosen for Student of the Month because he demonstrates leadership, is respectful to his peers and teachers, has good character, demonstrates citizenship, and has good behavior. England’s interests are weight lifting and he is involved in Quiz Bowl. England excels in Math, Social Studies, Science, and Language Arts. England’s future goals are to go to college and to become rich. |
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November Student of the Month
By: Dan England
This year, the middle school introduced a new reward type system called Student of the Month. Student of the Month is when teachers nominate students from each middle school grade. Then one name from each class is drawn, and those three students are the Student of the Month. Students of the month receive a prize, and their picture is hung up in the middle school. At the end of the semester, all of the students that were nominated will be entered to win a semester prize.
The November Knox County Student of the Month middle schoolers are Ryan Davis, Easton Schieferdecker, and Cadie Violette.
Ryan Davis is the sixth-grade son of Jon and Kathy Davis.
Davis’ interests are video games, fishing, and hunting. He is involved in baseball as an extracurricular activity and he excels in Language Arts.
Davis’ future goals are to graduate high school and to work with his dad.
Easton Schieferdecker is the seventh-grade son of Mary Beth Howerton and Eric Schieferdecker.
Schieferdecker’s interests include fishing and hunting. He is involved in football as an extracurricular activity. The class that Schieferdecker excels in the most is math.
Schieferdecker plans to become a game warden in the future.
Cadie Violette is the eighth-grade daughter of Cindy and Jason Violette.
Violette’s interests are becoming a heart surgeon. She is involved in Student Council, Quiz Bowl, Band, Yearbook, Science Club, and is the Track manager. The subjects she excels in are science and band.
Violette’s future goals are to become a heart surgeon and to be known for her surgical abilities.
By: Dan England
This year, the middle school introduced a new reward type system called Student of the Month. Student of the Month is when teachers nominate students from each middle school grade. Then one name from each class is drawn, and those three students are the Student of the Month. Students of the month receive a prize, and their picture is hung up in the middle school. At the end of the semester, all of the students that were nominated will be entered to win a semester prize.
The November Knox County Student of the Month middle schoolers are Ryan Davis, Easton Schieferdecker, and Cadie Violette.
Ryan Davis is the sixth-grade son of Jon and Kathy Davis.
Davis’ interests are video games, fishing, and hunting. He is involved in baseball as an extracurricular activity and he excels in Language Arts.
Davis’ future goals are to graduate high school and to work with his dad.
Easton Schieferdecker is the seventh-grade son of Mary Beth Howerton and Eric Schieferdecker.
Schieferdecker’s interests include fishing and hunting. He is involved in football as an extracurricular activity. The class that Schieferdecker excels in the most is math.
Schieferdecker plans to become a game warden in the future.
Cadie Violette is the eighth-grade daughter of Cindy and Jason Violette.
Violette’s interests are becoming a heart surgeon. She is involved in Student Council, Quiz Bowl, Band, Yearbook, Science Club, and is the Track manager. The subjects she excels in are science and band.
Violette’s future goals are to become a heart surgeon and to be known for her surgical abilities.
Giving in the Christmas Spirit
By: Karissa Hamlin
For the food drive that took place in the high school from November 16 to December 11, the teachers won with a grand total of 228 points. Seniors came in second place 208 points, with the juniors coming in behind them with 50 points. The sophomores came in fourth with 35 points, and the freshman came in last with 15 points. The teachers will receive a pizza party that will be hosted by the Student Council. All the items that were brought in were donated to Adopt-A-Child families.
The Middle school brought in variety of items such as hats, gloves, toothpaste, etc. to collect for the Adopt-A-Child families. The sixth grade students brought in the most items with 105. Seventh grade brought in 61 items and the eighth grade students brought in 55 items. Their prize in participating in this good deed is they received a movie and popcorn party during first, second, and third hour on Thursday, December 17.
By: Karissa Hamlin
For the food drive that took place in the high school from November 16 to December 11, the teachers won with a grand total of 228 points. Seniors came in second place 208 points, with the juniors coming in behind them with 50 points. The sophomores came in fourth with 35 points, and the freshman came in last with 15 points. The teachers will receive a pizza party that will be hosted by the Student Council. All the items that were brought in were donated to Adopt-A-Child families.
The Middle school brought in variety of items such as hats, gloves, toothpaste, etc. to collect for the Adopt-A-Child families. The sixth grade students brought in the most items with 105. Seventh grade brought in 61 items and the eighth grade students brought in 55 items. Their prize in participating in this good deed is they received a movie and popcorn party during first, second, and third hour on Thursday, December 17.
Christmas Memories
Editorial By: Megan Poston
Christmas has always been a holiday that people always look forward too. Everyone celebrates it differently, and they have different traditions. One of my favorite family traditions is we get a real evergreen tree, every year. We always go to a Christmas tree farm right outside of Kirksville to get our tree, and we can't forget to pick up some of the Amish candy that they sell there too.
Most families go there, pick out their tree and only take about an hour to do it. The tree farm isn’t that big, so there’s only so many trees to pick from, but for some reason it takes my family over two hours to pick out just one tree. This is probably because everyone in my family is very opinionated, and stubborn. Everyone has their own idea of the “perfect tree.” We end up walking the whole tree farm, and usually end up going back to a tree we saw first; but that’s only half the problem.
One year, we decided to get a tree right after there was a huge snowstorm. The people weren’t able to shake the tree this year to get the needles out of it, because the limbs were covered in ice, and they would break off. The people told us to take our tree home, and put in our bathtub to let the ice thaw off. This sounded like a bad idea from the beginning, but we still took it home. We got home and put
the tree in our bathtub for a whole day. Once the ice was gone, we had to drag our tree from the bathroom to our living room. Since we couldn’t shake the tree, pine needles were flying everywhere as we shoved our tree though the doorway.
We finally got the tree to the living room and into the stand, and then we had to clean up the trail of pine needles through our house. After that year, Mom swore that we would be getting a fake tree, but the next year we still went and got a real tree.
Editorial By: Megan Poston
Christmas has always been a holiday that people always look forward too. Everyone celebrates it differently, and they have different traditions. One of my favorite family traditions is we get a real evergreen tree, every year. We always go to a Christmas tree farm right outside of Kirksville to get our tree, and we can't forget to pick up some of the Amish candy that they sell there too.
Most families go there, pick out their tree and only take about an hour to do it. The tree farm isn’t that big, so there’s only so many trees to pick from, but for some reason it takes my family over two hours to pick out just one tree. This is probably because everyone in my family is very opinionated, and stubborn. Everyone has their own idea of the “perfect tree.” We end up walking the whole tree farm, and usually end up going back to a tree we saw first; but that’s only half the problem.
One year, we decided to get a tree right after there was a huge snowstorm. The people weren’t able to shake the tree this year to get the needles out of it, because the limbs were covered in ice, and they would break off. The people told us to take our tree home, and put in our bathtub to let the ice thaw off. This sounded like a bad idea from the beginning, but we still took it home. We got home and put
the tree in our bathtub for a whole day. Once the ice was gone, we had to drag our tree from the bathroom to our living room. Since we couldn’t shake the tree, pine needles were flying everywhere as we shoved our tree though the doorway.
We finally got the tree to the living room and into the stand, and then we had to clean up the trail of pine needles through our house. After that year, Mom swore that we would be getting a fake tree, but the next year we still went and got a real tree.
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Building Bones of Knowledge
By: Karissa Hamlin The fourth hour anatomy class is building their own 3-D skeletons in groups of three or four with the help of their teacher, Dr. Tucker. Instead of doing all 204 bones of the body, they will only include 199 of the bones. They are excluding the inner ear bones and the hyoid, which is a bone in the neck. To create their skeleton the students will be using materials that include newspapers, wire, popsicle sticks, duct tape, cotton balls, play-doh, and any other helpful resources they can find. After they build their skeleton, they’re required to label all types of bones and joints on their skeleton. Then, they also have to make a presentation about the importance of each structure: the skull, joints, pelvic girdle and lower limbs, pectoral girdle and upper limbs, vertebral column, and thoracic care. “They’re doing it because the kids don’t learn just by the traditional lab,” said Dr. Tucker. This gives the students an opportunity to interact with one another and learn the anatomy of the body in a more enthusiastic way. With doing this project, the students don’t have to sit at a desk and just study the book. |
Giving In the Spirit of Christmas
By: Karissa Hamlin
Middle school Student Council is sponsoring the Adopt-A-Child program in the middle school between December 1 to December 10. Their local contact is Cheryl Hayes.
The students will be collecting winter hats, gloves, socks, toothbrushes, toothpaste, stuffed animals, and small toys to be donated. All middle school classes have to bring in at least twenty five items to be able to participate in a movie/popcorn party on December 17.
By: Karissa Hamlin
Middle school Student Council is sponsoring the Adopt-A-Child program in the middle school between December 1 to December 10. Their local contact is Cheryl Hayes.
The students will be collecting winter hats, gloves, socks, toothbrushes, toothpaste, stuffed animals, and small toys to be donated. All middle school classes have to bring in at least twenty five items to be able to participate in a movie/popcorn party on December 17.
Fall Sports Recognition
By: Sydney Morrow
Knox County recognized fall athletes on the night of Monday, November 23.
Middle school softball was coached by Jessica Wolf and Stacey Baird. The coaches recognized the team and gave awards for the season. Most Versatile Player was awarded to Averi Acton. Riley Strange was awarded the True Grit award. The Most Improved Player was Lani Watts and the Hustle Award went to Arysta Snyder. Kinsley Johnson and Hannah Grissom also received the Defensive Award.
Middle school football was recognized by Coach Craig Miller and Jeff Ackman. The Eagle Award went to Elliot Ogden. Robert Mauck was awarded Most Improved. Defensive Line Award went to Floyd Miller and Sebastian Melendez was awarded Offensive Line Award. Co-MVP awards went to Sebastian Melendez and Trent Klocke.
High school softball was coached by Becky Barnhill and Courtney Hatfield. Barnhill talked about their season with a 15-10 record. Emily Nichols received the Selfless Player Award. Serena McCarty received Hustle Award. Madison Yoakum received Offensive Player of the Year. Madison McCabe received Defensive Player of the Year.
Varsity football coach, Alex VanDelft discussed the teams 9-2 record. He had seven seniors: Brandon Schrage, Zach Boatman, Randall McCarty, Nick McCarty, Andrew Hodge, Skyler Sullens, Tim Jones. VanDelft awarded six of the seven seniors for playing all four years.
High school football cheer coach, Staci English, recognized all her cheerleaders. She did not give individual awards, because she thought they all had a good season.
By: Sydney Morrow
Knox County recognized fall athletes on the night of Monday, November 23.
Middle school softball was coached by Jessica Wolf and Stacey Baird. The coaches recognized the team and gave awards for the season. Most Versatile Player was awarded to Averi Acton. Riley Strange was awarded the True Grit award. The Most Improved Player was Lani Watts and the Hustle Award went to Arysta Snyder. Kinsley Johnson and Hannah Grissom also received the Defensive Award.
Middle school football was recognized by Coach Craig Miller and Jeff Ackman. The Eagle Award went to Elliot Ogden. Robert Mauck was awarded Most Improved. Defensive Line Award went to Floyd Miller and Sebastian Melendez was awarded Offensive Line Award. Co-MVP awards went to Sebastian Melendez and Trent Klocke.
High school softball was coached by Becky Barnhill and Courtney Hatfield. Barnhill talked about their season with a 15-10 record. Emily Nichols received the Selfless Player Award. Serena McCarty received Hustle Award. Madison Yoakum received Offensive Player of the Year. Madison McCabe received Defensive Player of the Year.
Varsity football coach, Alex VanDelft discussed the teams 9-2 record. He had seven seniors: Brandon Schrage, Zach Boatman, Randall McCarty, Nick McCarty, Andrew Hodge, Skyler Sullens, Tim Jones. VanDelft awarded six of the seven seniors for playing all four years.
High school football cheer coach, Staci English, recognized all her cheerleaders. She did not give individual awards, because she thought they all had a good season.
A Trip for Leadership
By: Megan Poston
On November 12th through the 15th, the Knox County Future Business Leaders of America went to Charleston South Carolina for the National Fall Leadership Conference. The FBLA members attended this trip were Katlyn Kent, Kaitlin Gibbons, Sydney Morrow, Audrey Howe, Jacobi Miller, and their instructor Mrs. Hultz.
Sydney Morrow said, “On the first day we went on a harbor tour, and walked through downtown Charleston and saw the market. Then on the second day we attended sessions with different speakers.”
This trip also gave members a chance to meet and interact with members all over the United States. Mrs. Hultz said, “This trip gave all the kids a real world experience, from the airport to the people that they meet.”
The members were able to choose what sessions they went to. Some of their options were time management, working on soft skills, and presenting what you skills you possess.
Some of the featured speakers there were Patty Hendrickson, and Alex Sheen. Patty Hendrickson is a certified speaker who writes and speaks about leadership, teams, change, and motivation. Alex Sheen is the founder of Because I said I Would, which is a social movement and nonprofit dedicated to the betterment of humanity.
Hultz said,” I feel like these speakers really inspired the kids in every aspect of their life, even in school.”
This overall goal of this conference was to teach members of FBLA good skills to prepare them for their future.
By: Megan Poston
On November 12th through the 15th, the Knox County Future Business Leaders of America went to Charleston South Carolina for the National Fall Leadership Conference. The FBLA members attended this trip were Katlyn Kent, Kaitlin Gibbons, Sydney Morrow, Audrey Howe, Jacobi Miller, and their instructor Mrs. Hultz.
Sydney Morrow said, “On the first day we went on a harbor tour, and walked through downtown Charleston and saw the market. Then on the second day we attended sessions with different speakers.”
This trip also gave members a chance to meet and interact with members all over the United States. Mrs. Hultz said, “This trip gave all the kids a real world experience, from the airport to the people that they meet.”
The members were able to choose what sessions they went to. Some of their options were time management, working on soft skills, and presenting what you skills you possess.
Some of the featured speakers there were Patty Hendrickson, and Alex Sheen. Patty Hendrickson is a certified speaker who writes and speaks about leadership, teams, change, and motivation. Alex Sheen is the founder of Because I said I Would, which is a social movement and nonprofit dedicated to the betterment of humanity.
Hultz said,” I feel like these speakers really inspired the kids in every aspect of their life, even in school.”
This overall goal of this conference was to teach members of FBLA good skills to prepare them for their future.
StuCo Food Drive
By: Karissa Hamlin
The high school Student Council is hosting a food drive for four weeks from November 16th to December 11th. The food that is collected in this time is going to go to the Adopt-a-Child families. Students can bring in any food items, but every week has a theme with different bonus items each day.
The first week's theme is kid food with the bonus items; Helper Day (Hamburger Helper, Tuna Helper, or canned tuna) on Monday, Jello, canned fruit, or canned pie filling on Tuesday, cake/brownie mix or pudding on Wednesday, macaroni and cheese on Thursday, and animal crackers or graham crackers on Friday.
The following week's themes will include a Mexican week, an Italian week, and daily essentials week. Bonus items for these weeks are to be announced. They will be posted in the school's daily bulletin.
Bonus items are worth five points, but any non-perishable food item will be accepted for one point.
Student Council has also challenged the teachers to participate in the food drive as well. If the teachers come in last place, they will face some humiliating punishment. Each classes boxes were created by their class officers and placed into their class sponsors classrooms.
The freshmen class's box is located in Dr. Tucker's classroom, sophomores are in Mrs. McNabb's classroom, juniors are in Mrs. Erwin's classroom, and seniors are in Mrs. O'Haver's office. The scores of the food drive will be posted in the window of the front office window. The prize to the winning class will be announced so all students are encouraged to be generous and participate.
By: Karissa Hamlin
The high school Student Council is hosting a food drive for four weeks from November 16th to December 11th. The food that is collected in this time is going to go to the Adopt-a-Child families. Students can bring in any food items, but every week has a theme with different bonus items each day.
The first week's theme is kid food with the bonus items; Helper Day (Hamburger Helper, Tuna Helper, or canned tuna) on Monday, Jello, canned fruit, or canned pie filling on Tuesday, cake/brownie mix or pudding on Wednesday, macaroni and cheese on Thursday, and animal crackers or graham crackers on Friday.
The following week's themes will include a Mexican week, an Italian week, and daily essentials week. Bonus items for these weeks are to be announced. They will be posted in the school's daily bulletin.
Bonus items are worth five points, but any non-perishable food item will be accepted for one point.
Student Council has also challenged the teachers to participate in the food drive as well. If the teachers come in last place, they will face some humiliating punishment. Each classes boxes were created by their class officers and placed into their class sponsors classrooms.
The freshmen class's box is located in Dr. Tucker's classroom, sophomores are in Mrs. McNabb's classroom, juniors are in Mrs. Erwin's classroom, and seniors are in Mrs. O'Haver's office. The scores of the food drive will be posted in the window of the front office window. The prize to the winning class will be announced so all students are encouraged to be generous and participate.
October Student of the Month
By: Dan England
This year, the middle school introduced a new reward type system called Student of the Month. Student of the Month is when teachers nominate students from each middle school grade. Then one name from each class is drawn, and those three students are the Student of the Month. Students of the month receive a prize, and their picture is hung up in the middle school. At the end of the semester, all of the students that were nominated will be entered to win a semester prize.
The October Knox County Student of the Month middle schoolers are Cheyenne Snyder, Daniel Hamlin, and Jazzlyn Holman.
Cheyenne Snyder is the sixth-grade daughter of Jason and Amanda Snyder.
Snyder’s interests include horses and playing on her tablet and phone. Snyder is involved in playing basketball at school and she says she excels in band, math, language arts.
Daniel Hamlin is the seventh-grade son of Tony and Tracy Hamlin.
Hamlin enjoys hunting, mowing, and working with cattle. The extracurricular activities that Hamlin is involved in are football, basketball, and track. He says he excels in social studies and science.
Hamlin’s future goals are to work with pigs and to become a vet.
Jazzlyn Holman is the eighth-grade daughter of Joe and Kristy Holman.
Holman’s interests are cheerleading, band, watching Netflix, and hanging out with her friends. Holman’s extracurricular activities include cheerleading, band, and Student Council. She says she enjoys social studies in school.
Holman’s future goals are to have a successful career and to start a family.
By: Dan England
This year, the middle school introduced a new reward type system called Student of the Month. Student of the Month is when teachers nominate students from each middle school grade. Then one name from each class is drawn, and those three students are the Student of the Month. Students of the month receive a prize, and their picture is hung up in the middle school. At the end of the semester, all of the students that were nominated will be entered to win a semester prize.
The October Knox County Student of the Month middle schoolers are Cheyenne Snyder, Daniel Hamlin, and Jazzlyn Holman.
Cheyenne Snyder is the sixth-grade daughter of Jason and Amanda Snyder.
Snyder’s interests include horses and playing on her tablet and phone. Snyder is involved in playing basketball at school and she says she excels in band, math, language arts.
Daniel Hamlin is the seventh-grade son of Tony and Tracy Hamlin.
Hamlin enjoys hunting, mowing, and working with cattle. The extracurricular activities that Hamlin is involved in are football, basketball, and track. He says he excels in social studies and science.
Hamlin’s future goals are to work with pigs and to become a vet.
Jazzlyn Holman is the eighth-grade daughter of Joe and Kristy Holman.
Holman’s interests are cheerleading, band, watching Netflix, and hanging out with her friends. Holman’s extracurricular activities include cheerleading, band, and Student Council. She says she enjoys social studies in school.
Holman’s future goals are to have a successful career and to start a family.
Knox COunty Annual Veteran's Day Breakfast and RECOGNITION
3-D Pens Are used to make inventions in American History Class.
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Red Ribbon Week
By: Megan Poston
Red Ribbon Week is the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation reaching millions of Americans during the last week of October every year. By wearing red ribbons and participating in community anti-drug events, people pledge to live a drug-free life and pay tribute to DEA Special Agent Enrique “KiKi” Camarena. Special Agent Camarena was an 11-year veteran of the DEA assigned to the Guadalajara, Mexico, office where he was on the trail of the country’s biggest marijuana and cocaine traffickers. In 1985, he was kidnapped, brutally tortured, and murdered by Mexican drug traffickers. His tragic death opened the eyes of many Americans to the dangers of drugs and the international scope of the drug trade.
In 1988 Red Ribbon Week was recognized nationally with President Ronald and First Lady Nancy Reagan serving as the first Honorary Chairs. Knox County School District has been celebrating RRW for a long time. The SPIRIT program has always teamed up with the school to celebrate RRW.
SPIRT Coordinator, Jessica Wolf says, “This is the 6th school year that I have been the prevention coordinator. Amy Miller has been the SPIRIT Project Coordinator for 12 years. The SPIRIT program is in it's 14th contract with the Knox County School District.”
Preferred Family Healthcare's S.P.I.R.I.T. program is raising awareness in the classroom by educating the students about the dangers of drug abuse and addiction, through a variety of lessons and activities. They give students an opportunity to sign a pledge banner and be drug-free. Every student K-12 and staff members received a red ribbon to wear as a reminder to take care of yourself and be drug-free.
This year the Elementary and Middle school students participated in Plant the Promise Campaign. The students planted red tulips in the school yard as a promise to live a drug-free life. S.P.I.R.I.T encourages students and staff to wear red in support of this as well.
Wolf said, “I feel that the Knox County students have the correct information about the dangers of drugs and my hope is they will make an educated decision not to experiment with drugs or alcohol. The SPIRIT program over the last 14 years have made a huge impact on the students of Knox County.”
The SPIRIT program does drug education throughout the entire year with K-8 students through Peacebuilders, Second Step and Curriculum-based Support Group lessons.
The Knox County Awareness Coalition also sponsors Prevention Day at the end of the year for middle school students. They also provide alternative activities for high school students in the community. The coalition has sponsored teen dances, guest speakers and school lock-in's. The SPIRIT staff are also members of the Awareness Coalition in effort to keep our students educated and safe.
By: Megan Poston
Red Ribbon Week is the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation reaching millions of Americans during the last week of October every year. By wearing red ribbons and participating in community anti-drug events, people pledge to live a drug-free life and pay tribute to DEA Special Agent Enrique “KiKi” Camarena. Special Agent Camarena was an 11-year veteran of the DEA assigned to the Guadalajara, Mexico, office where he was on the trail of the country’s biggest marijuana and cocaine traffickers. In 1985, he was kidnapped, brutally tortured, and murdered by Mexican drug traffickers. His tragic death opened the eyes of many Americans to the dangers of drugs and the international scope of the drug trade.
In 1988 Red Ribbon Week was recognized nationally with President Ronald and First Lady Nancy Reagan serving as the first Honorary Chairs. Knox County School District has been celebrating RRW for a long time. The SPIRIT program has always teamed up with the school to celebrate RRW.
SPIRT Coordinator, Jessica Wolf says, “This is the 6th school year that I have been the prevention coordinator. Amy Miller has been the SPIRIT Project Coordinator for 12 years. The SPIRIT program is in it's 14th contract with the Knox County School District.”
Preferred Family Healthcare's S.P.I.R.I.T. program is raising awareness in the classroom by educating the students about the dangers of drug abuse and addiction, through a variety of lessons and activities. They give students an opportunity to sign a pledge banner and be drug-free. Every student K-12 and staff members received a red ribbon to wear as a reminder to take care of yourself and be drug-free.
This year the Elementary and Middle school students participated in Plant the Promise Campaign. The students planted red tulips in the school yard as a promise to live a drug-free life. S.P.I.R.I.T encourages students and staff to wear red in support of this as well.
Wolf said, “I feel that the Knox County students have the correct information about the dangers of drugs and my hope is they will make an educated decision not to experiment with drugs or alcohol. The SPIRIT program over the last 14 years have made a huge impact on the students of Knox County.”
The SPIRIT program does drug education throughout the entire year with K-8 students through Peacebuilders, Second Step and Curriculum-based Support Group lessons.
The Knox County Awareness Coalition also sponsors Prevention Day at the end of the year for middle school students. They also provide alternative activities for high school students in the community. The coalition has sponsored teen dances, guest speakers and school lock-in's. The SPIRIT staff are also members of the Awareness Coalition in effort to keep our students educated and safe.
Middle School September Student of the Month
By: Dan England
This year, the middle school introduced a new reward type system called Student of the Month. Student of the Month is when teachers nominate students from each middle school grade. Then one name from each class is drawn, and those three students are the Student of the Month. Students of the month receive a prize, and their picture is hung up in the middle school. At the end of the semester, all of the students that were nominated will be entered to win a semester prize. The September Knox County Middle School Students of the Month were Dylan Powers, Arysta Snyder, and Alyssa Peavler.
Dylan Powers is the sixth-grade son of Joeseph and Tara Powers. Powers is most interested in reading, art, and making books. Powers is involved in Knox County Quiz Bowl and Student Council.
“As long as I’m learning something, I like all of my subjects,” says Powers. Powers’ future goals are to be a book writer and an artist.
Alyssa Peavler is the seventh-grade daughter of Mark and Michelle Peavler. Peavler enjoys basketball, working with animals, hunting, and spending time with her friends and family. Some of the extracurricular activities Peavler is involved in are basketball, track, and softball. The subjects that she likes the most are social studies and math. Peavler’s future goals are to graduate high school, go to college, and to become a crop adjuster.
Arysta Snyder is the eighth-grade daughter of Jason and Amanda Snyder.
Snyder says, “I like sports, drawing, and math.”
The extracurricular activities Snyder is involved in are basketball, softball, and Student Council. Snyder says she excels most in math, language arts, and band. Her future goals are to attend college at Mizzou on a basketball scholarship and to make a high standing as an adult.
By: Dan England
This year, the middle school introduced a new reward type system called Student of the Month. Student of the Month is when teachers nominate students from each middle school grade. Then one name from each class is drawn, and those three students are the Student of the Month. Students of the month receive a prize, and their picture is hung up in the middle school. At the end of the semester, all of the students that were nominated will be entered to win a semester prize. The September Knox County Middle School Students of the Month were Dylan Powers, Arysta Snyder, and Alyssa Peavler.
Dylan Powers is the sixth-grade son of Joeseph and Tara Powers. Powers is most interested in reading, art, and making books. Powers is involved in Knox County Quiz Bowl and Student Council.
“As long as I’m learning something, I like all of my subjects,” says Powers. Powers’ future goals are to be a book writer and an artist.
Alyssa Peavler is the seventh-grade daughter of Mark and Michelle Peavler. Peavler enjoys basketball, working with animals, hunting, and spending time with her friends and family. Some of the extracurricular activities Peavler is involved in are basketball, track, and softball. The subjects that she likes the most are social studies and math. Peavler’s future goals are to graduate high school, go to college, and to become a crop adjuster.
Arysta Snyder is the eighth-grade daughter of Jason and Amanda Snyder.
Snyder says, “I like sports, drawing, and math.”
The extracurricular activities Snyder is involved in are basketball, softball, and Student Council. Snyder says she excels most in math, language arts, and band. Her future goals are to attend college at Mizzou on a basketball scholarship and to make a high standing as an adult.
Basketball Cheerleading Preview
By: Karissa Hamlin
This upcoming season the basketball cheerleading squad will have a new head coach, Mrs. Hunt. She is a first-year teacher at Knox County and teaches elementary art. Two of her stepchildren have attended and graduated at Knox County so she isn't new to this area. Hunt used to be a cheer/dance/pageant mom and is excited to be coaching.
"I am excited for the upcoming games and the ability to add to the positive moral and awesome spirit of what Knox County is all about. I am looking forward to my cheer squad doing mat stunts with the boisterous yells for our basketball players," said Hunt.
The 2015 cheerleading squad includes; Ashley Shultz (captain), Zoe Gudehus (co-captain), Ember McCauley, Skye Bugh, Kaylin Jones, Sheyenne Schrage, Aria Bowman, Alyssa Murr, Brandi Carlyle, and Jordan McKay. The alternates for the squad are Zachary Boatman and Grace McCauley. Grace McCauley is also the 2015 mascot.
By: Karissa Hamlin
This upcoming season the basketball cheerleading squad will have a new head coach, Mrs. Hunt. She is a first-year teacher at Knox County and teaches elementary art. Two of her stepchildren have attended and graduated at Knox County so she isn't new to this area. Hunt used to be a cheer/dance/pageant mom and is excited to be coaching.
"I am excited for the upcoming games and the ability to add to the positive moral and awesome spirit of what Knox County is all about. I am looking forward to my cheer squad doing mat stunts with the boisterous yells for our basketball players," said Hunt.
The 2015 cheerleading squad includes; Ashley Shultz (captain), Zoe Gudehus (co-captain), Ember McCauley, Skye Bugh, Kaylin Jones, Sheyenne Schrage, Aria Bowman, Alyssa Murr, Brandi Carlyle, and Jordan McKay. The alternates for the squad are Zachary Boatman and Grace McCauley. Grace McCauley is also the 2015 mascot.
Veterans' Day Assembly
By: Karissa Hamlin
On November 11, Knox County schools will be hosting an event for Veteran's Day. A committee has come together to plan this yearly event. The committee consists of teachers and staff members: Mrs. Hodge, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Henry, Mrs. Orton, Kisha Goodwin, Mrs. Clark, Mr. Gudehus, Mrs. Hunt, Mr. Rayl, and Mrs. Hultz. Each of the committee members has worked hard to play a key role in the preparation of this event.
The celebration will begin with breakfast being served starting at 7:30 a.m. with biscuits and gravy being served. The breakfast is free to all veterans and their spouses. NHS students will be helping serve breakfast and school board members will also help by greeting guests, helping serve, and assisting the veterans in getting signed in.
Any veteran is welcome to attend the celebrations and do not have to be invited by a student.
After breakfast, an assembly will take place in the KCHS gym at 8:30 a.m. All Knox Co. students will come to join in the celebration. The guest speaker is the Missouri National guard, Gary Gilmore, and Representative Craig Redmon has been invited as well. Mr. Gudehus will do introductions, and Mr. Turgeon will welcome the guests.
The assembly will also consist of patriotic songs sung by students and selections performed by the band. A video presentation put together by students, as well as the pledge in sign language will be presented. Students will also demonstrate the folding of the flag. Taps will be played by veteran Mr. Holman. Lastly, all veterans who attend will receive letters written by students during "Mail Call". Committee members are expecting a large crowd as last year they had two hundred people attend.
If any student would like to invite a veteran to attend, they may sign them up in their school office. Any veteran who has served as a soldier for our country is also welcome to attend and may contact the school.
By: Karissa Hamlin
On November 11, Knox County schools will be hosting an event for Veteran's Day. A committee has come together to plan this yearly event. The committee consists of teachers and staff members: Mrs. Hodge, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Henry, Mrs. Orton, Kisha Goodwin, Mrs. Clark, Mr. Gudehus, Mrs. Hunt, Mr. Rayl, and Mrs. Hultz. Each of the committee members has worked hard to play a key role in the preparation of this event.
The celebration will begin with breakfast being served starting at 7:30 a.m. with biscuits and gravy being served. The breakfast is free to all veterans and their spouses. NHS students will be helping serve breakfast and school board members will also help by greeting guests, helping serve, and assisting the veterans in getting signed in.
Any veteran is welcome to attend the celebrations and do not have to be invited by a student.
After breakfast, an assembly will take place in the KCHS gym at 8:30 a.m. All Knox Co. students will come to join in the celebration. The guest speaker is the Missouri National guard, Gary Gilmore, and Representative Craig Redmon has been invited as well. Mr. Gudehus will do introductions, and Mr. Turgeon will welcome the guests.
The assembly will also consist of patriotic songs sung by students and selections performed by the band. A video presentation put together by students, as well as the pledge in sign language will be presented. Students will also demonstrate the folding of the flag. Taps will be played by veteran Mr. Holman. Lastly, all veterans who attend will receive letters written by students during "Mail Call". Committee members are expecting a large crowd as last year they had two hundred people attend.
If any student would like to invite a veteran to attend, they may sign them up in their school office. Any veteran who has served as a soldier for our country is also welcome to attend and may contact the school.
Wrapping Up the 2015 Softball Season
Editorial By: Shane Clary
What are some points from the season?
Coach Barnhill explained, “Playing Macon, which is a 3A school, coming to their field and beating them. Losing most of the game, I had freshmen step up and make big plays. I used all three of my pitchers to win the game. To me, this showed it took the whole team to win the game, and not just one athlete showing up with her A game."
What sticks out the most to you about this team?
“This team couldn’t rely on one person to win the game. We have a lot of young athletes, who have to show up every day and do their part. I don’t have an overpowering pitcher who can just blow by people, but if they hit their spots we can be successful.”
What do you look forward to next season?
“To be honest, we are losing three seniors who will leave a hole in our lineup. I look forward to the freshmen who played a lot this year, to step up and become leaders. The outfield will be searching for starters. We will still be a young team next year. Winning 15 games this year with 4 freshmen in the lineup shows me we can go up from here. I would’ve liked to change the outcome, but you just never know."
What was it like not having assistant Lance McMahon around this season?
“It was completely different. Lance knows so much. One great thing that we missed about him was his ability to pick pitches, which made a lot of coaches mad. Coaching with him for two years just made it seem normal and not having him there was a change for me personally. He took the stern role with me being a little more laid back. Coach Hatfield did a great job of filling his shoes and did an awesome job as assistant.”
Being a DJ for two years and a helping with everything in between has been a great experience for me. I loved helping the girls with anything they needed. Both years did not end how I would’ve liked to see it, but as my good friend Coach Barnhill said, “Winning isn’t everything”. To me this meant, it didn’t take holding up a plaque at the end to be a winner, but it's what life lesson you take with you and memories you keep. I can’t thank Coach Barnhill enough and everything she gave back to me.
2015 Homecoming Queen & King. COngratulations Marissa York AND TIMMY JONES.
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Shooting Their Way to Districts
By: Megan Poston
The Knox County FFA Trap Team has 15 members that make up the A, B, and C team; who is on each team is determined by their averages each week. The members are Joe Benedict, Becca Sparks, Brenden Walsh, Ian Kincaid, Tanner Marble, Hays Klocke, Kyle Strange, Bradley Hamlin, Jeremy Nichols, Josh Hamlin, Luke Burgess, Aden Triplett, Zane Hubble, Nash Miller, and Chelsea Zahn.
The team practices three days a week and the members of each team shoot as many rounds as they deem necessary to feel prepared for the upcoming meet each weekend. They typically shoot anywhere from 50-200 rounds.
Mrs. Hamlin says, “This year's teams have done a phenomenal job not only in representing Knox County but also in mentoring the younger members of our squad and other teams that they are friends with.”
The teams have placed high in all meets. They recently advanced from Area competition to District competition, being among the top seven teams in our area, which covers 23 schools with multiple teams per school. They will be competing Saturday, October 3 for a chance to move on to State competition in the spring. At Districts, the challenges will be the sunshine and weather. They shoot at 10:30 in the morning, which will be right into the sunlight, but the team has been practicing shooting into the sun. Another challenge is larger schools, since they have more kids on their team.
“Some schools, we know the styles and patterns that they usually shoot so we are prepared by knowing how they will most likely shoot, but with schools coming from places we've never competed against, that presents a challenge. We tackle the things we can prepare for, and we don't worry about the ones we can't. My kids are extremely professional and love what they do, so I am extremely proud of them for doing so well this season,” says Mrs. Hamlin.
By: Megan Poston
The Knox County FFA Trap Team has 15 members that make up the A, B, and C team; who is on each team is determined by their averages each week. The members are Joe Benedict, Becca Sparks, Brenden Walsh, Ian Kincaid, Tanner Marble, Hays Klocke, Kyle Strange, Bradley Hamlin, Jeremy Nichols, Josh Hamlin, Luke Burgess, Aden Triplett, Zane Hubble, Nash Miller, and Chelsea Zahn.
The team practices three days a week and the members of each team shoot as many rounds as they deem necessary to feel prepared for the upcoming meet each weekend. They typically shoot anywhere from 50-200 rounds.
Mrs. Hamlin says, “This year's teams have done a phenomenal job not only in representing Knox County but also in mentoring the younger members of our squad and other teams that they are friends with.”
The teams have placed high in all meets. They recently advanced from Area competition to District competition, being among the top seven teams in our area, which covers 23 schools with multiple teams per school. They will be competing Saturday, October 3 for a chance to move on to State competition in the spring. At Districts, the challenges will be the sunshine and weather. They shoot at 10:30 in the morning, which will be right into the sunlight, but the team has been practicing shooting into the sun. Another challenge is larger schools, since they have more kids on their team.
“Some schools, we know the styles and patterns that they usually shoot so we are prepared by knowing how they will most likely shoot, but with schools coming from places we've never competed against, that presents a challenge. We tackle the things we can prepare for, and we don't worry about the ones we can't. My kids are extremely professional and love what they do, so I am extremely proud of them for doing so well this season,” says Mrs. Hamlin.
Zombie Run
By: Dan England
The second annual Zombie Run is being put on by the Knox County Ambulance District with the help of the Knox County Drama Department on Oct. 3. This year, it will be a 5K and will take place in Edina. The streets will not be closed for the event, so the runners not only have to watch out for zombies, but also cars.
The students in the Drama Department will act as zombies and jump out at runners as they run by. This year, the students of the Drama Department do their own make-up to be the zombies.
Contact the Knox County Ambulance District for more information.
By: Dan England
The second annual Zombie Run is being put on by the Knox County Ambulance District with the help of the Knox County Drama Department on Oct. 3. This year, it will be a 5K and will take place in Edina. The streets will not be closed for the event, so the runners not only have to watch out for zombies, but also cars.
The students in the Drama Department will act as zombies and jump out at runners as they run by. This year, the students of the Drama Department do their own make-up to be the zombies.
Contact the Knox County Ambulance District for more information.
FBLa fundraiser game was a blast. Teachers and students had lots of fun. It was so good, it went into extra innings, and students pulled it off in the 11th inning. thanks to everyone who came and helped support the FBLA members!
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Bradford Research Day
By: Dan England Bradford Research Day at the University of Missouri was Sept. 15 this year. Mrs. Hamlin took her agriculture students to Columbia, Mo. to visit the research farm and participate in mini-workshops. The workshops include anything from livestock, crops, college preparation to job interview skills, as well anything that may help you be successful in the agriculture industry. Some of the activities that the students participated in included a fistulated cow, talking to a Case dealer and looking at Case equipment, working with grad students to do outdoor games, and talking to people from a technology company about new technology that farmers are able to use. Hamlin says that the fistulated cow activity was probably one of the students’ favorite activities. She stated, “They get to learn about the different compartments of a cow’s stomach, and then they get to reach inside the cow through a hole in their hide. Then they get to reach down inside the room which is a part of their stomach and feel around in there.” When Hamlin travels to Bradford Research Day, she takes her freshman and senior Ag students. Hamlin says, “The freshmen attend, because it helps them see how there are so many countless areas that agriculture covers and how if they’re not a farm kid, per say, how they can still enjoy agriculture and FFA. I always take my seniors, because they get those college preparation and job interview skill workshops which are helpful for them as they are going to be graduating soon.” 
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3-D Printer
By: Sydney Morrow Knox County teachers have a great teaching opportunity available with the new MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3-D printer. Many teachers are looking forward to using it while other teachers have already put it to use. Dr. Tucker's STEM class has already completed several projects with the printer. They made musical instruments including a guiro and kazoo. These instruments were used to teach the concepts of conservation of energy, energy transfer and waves properties. "We have also made boats," said Tucker. "The boats I'm really excited about. We haven't finished putting them together yet, but we are going to race them." The boats will help teach students about buoyancy, density, mass to weight relationships, volume displacement, phototransistor triggers, electricity, circuit construction, algebra, equation formulation, soldering, etc... Mr. Brown is also wanting to make a drone. "The whole drone can be made on the 3-D printer, so we are going to make that and play with that," said Tucker. Mr. Green's middle school Industrial Tech class used the 3-D printer to make a gear for a bike which was part of a project. The kids peddled a bike which used the gear to turn lights on. He also has plans for his Electronics class to design a case to print for a circuit board, as well as design projects in his drafting class for the 3-D printer. Another addition to the Knox County technology line-up includes 3-D pens. These pens allow students to create 3-D objects by doodling. Mr. Kerr's class has used these pens for projects, such as creating totem poles while learning about Native American history. Several of his history classes are looking forward to working with the new pens. The 3-D printer and pens are bringing excitement to the school. There have been many lessons learned with their implementation and many more things to come. 
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Homecoming Royalty
By: Karissa Hamlin Seniors The At-Large senior candidates are Sydney Morrow and Brandon Schrage. Morrow is the daughter of Jeff and Diane Morrow. She is involved in softball, FBLA, NHS, Eagle Nation website publication (news editor), and A+. Schrage is the son of Tim and Beth Schrage. He is involved in football. Marissa York and Skyler Sullens are senior candidates. York is the daughter of Scott and Carol York. She is involved in varsity football cheerleading, varsity basketball, varsity track, FBLA, NHS, president of Spanish Club, senior class Student Council representative, Senior Class treasurer and drum majorette. Sullens is the son of Rob and Sara Sullens. He is involved in football, basketball, track, Spanish club, NHS and Senior Class secretary. Cassie Strange and Andrew Hodge are senior candidates. Strange is the daughter of Keith and Rhonda Strange. Strange is involved in varsity football cheerleading, NHS, A+, yearbook editor and FBLA. Hodge is the son of Andy and Karen Hodge. He is involved in NHS, varsity football and track. Madison Yoakum and Tim Jones are senior candidates. Yoakum is the daughter of Darin and Cheri Yoakum. She is involved in FFA, FBLA, softball, Spanish Club, NHS, dance team, dram, and A+. Jones is the son of Deacon and Francis Jones. He is involved in NHS, football, senior class Vice President, and Spanish club Vice President. Juniors Grace McCauley and Hunter Klocke are the court for the junior class. McCauley is the daughter of Melissa and late Tim McCauley. She is involved in varsity basketball cheerleading, theatre, NHS, A+, FBLA secretary, Spanish Club, and yearbook layout editor. Klocke is the son of Joyce and Mark Klocke. He is involved in football, track, basketball and FFA. Sophomores Laura Mayer and Michael Carlson are the court for the sophomore class. Mayer is the daughter of Max and Gena Mayer. She is involved in Spanish Club, HOSA, FFA secretary and Sophomore Class president. Carlson is the son of Randy and Kelley Carlson. He is involved in Student Council, football, basketball, HOSA and FBLA. Freshmen Megan Mayer and Logan Miller and the freshman court for their class. Mayer is the daughter of Carla and Gary Mayer. She is involved in FBLA, basketball and track. Miller is the son of Mike and Kim Miller. He is involved in football, basketball, track and FFA. |
fbla slow-pitch softball faculty v. students fundraiser
By: Shane Clary
FBLA is putting on a fundraiser game on September 30, at 6:30 p.m. The money raised from this event will go toward club activities planned for this year, such as attending leadership conference in South Carolina. Admission for the game will be free-will donation. Concessions will be provided along with great entertainment from the faculty and students playing. Come out and enjoy the evening. Hope to see you next Wednesday!
FBLA is putting on a fundraiser game on September 30, at 6:30 p.m. The money raised from this event will go toward club activities planned for this year, such as attending leadership conference in South Carolina. Admission for the game will be free-will donation. Concessions will be provided along with great entertainment from the faculty and students playing. Come out and enjoy the evening. Hope to see you next Wednesday!
Lock-in sponsored by knox county drug awareness coalition
| lock-in_permission_slip-_homecoming_1.pdf |
Homecoming Preview
By: Megan Poston
This year's Homecoming theme will be, “There’s No Place Like HOMEcoming,” and will run from September 28-October 2nd. This theme follows along the lines of the movie The Wizard of Oz.
The dress up days will be as follows: Monday, Green and Bling; Tuesday, Twister Tuesday (wacky clothes); Wednesday, Which Witch is Which? (twin day); Thursday, Lions, Eagles, and Flying
Monkeys (animal day); and a special theme for Friday, There’s a STORMCOMING! (Eagle Pride).
Everyone is encouraged to wear black to the school and to the football game on Friday.
The students will also be creating class banners for the Homecoming celebration to hang over their lockers. The class that wins the most points from dress-up days, the banner contest, and the float contest will be awarded a pizza party.
Before the game Friday, there will be a parade with floats from the high school classes, football team, the cheerleaders, and other organizations from school and our community. The parade will begin at 4 pm.m and will run around the square. Student Council will also be awarding a plaque to the winning float.
Homecoming King and Queen will be announced during halftime of the game.
We hope to see everyone out for the parade and to support the Eagles against the Harrisburg Bulldogs at 7 p.m.
By: Megan Poston
This year's Homecoming theme will be, “There’s No Place Like HOMEcoming,” and will run from September 28-October 2nd. This theme follows along the lines of the movie The Wizard of Oz.
The dress up days will be as follows: Monday, Green and Bling; Tuesday, Twister Tuesday (wacky clothes); Wednesday, Which Witch is Which? (twin day); Thursday, Lions, Eagles, and Flying
Monkeys (animal day); and a special theme for Friday, There’s a STORMCOMING! (Eagle Pride).
Everyone is encouraged to wear black to the school and to the football game on Friday.
The students will also be creating class banners for the Homecoming celebration to hang over their lockers. The class that wins the most points from dress-up days, the banner contest, and the float contest will be awarded a pizza party.
Before the game Friday, there will be a parade with floats from the high school classes, football team, the cheerleaders, and other organizations from school and our community. The parade will begin at 4 pm.m and will run around the square. Student Council will also be awarding a plaque to the winning float.
Homecoming King and Queen will be announced during halftime of the game.
We hope to see everyone out for the parade and to support the Eagles against the Harrisburg Bulldogs at 7 p.m.
Hitting High Notes with Mrs. Henry
By: Megan Poston Mrs. Henry teaches music in the elementary, but she also teaches high school choir. She attended high school at Adair County R-1, and then she went to Welch College, in Nashville, Tenn. Mrs. Henry is excited about teaching music in general at Knox County, and teaching choir. She also hopes to help grow the choir program. She likes it when students show respect to their teachers; a student having no respect is her biggest pet peeve. Mrs. Henry says she can be described as energetic, fast paced, and she likes to have fun. Outside of school, she likes working with her church and hunting. Her biggest achievement is shooting two of the largest deer in Missouri by a woman. “That’s my fame in life,” she says. In the future, Mrs. Henry hopes to still be working in a school system, but hopefully as an administrator, because she received her degree to be a principal. Consulting with Mrs. O'Haver
By: Karissa Hamlin Stacy O'Haver has always taught business education, but she decided it was time for a change. She had thought about changing career paths for six years and finally made the plunge. She is the new counselor at Knox County R-1 for grades six through twelve. "I will miss teaching the students business and computer skills, but I feel I can teach life skills in this position," said O'Haver. She is most excited about her new position because she feels like she will have an impact on more students than just the ones she would see in the classroom. O'Haver graduated high school at Knox County R-1 High School. She received her bachelor's degree at the University of Central-Missouri, and then her master's degree in business and administration at William Woods University, and is currently working toward her second master's degree in counseling at Missouri Baptist University. She is married to Mike O'Haver who is the middle school math teacher at Knox County and is also the varsity baseball coach. They have two sons, Grant and Jayden, ages 11 and 8. "I have a large family whom all live in Knox county," said O'Haver. Her hobbies include spending time with her family, reading, Pinterest, playing games on her phone/iPad, and watching her kids play sports. Three words to describe her would be organized, friendly, and trustworthy. When asked what her biggest achievement was, she responded by saying, "I would say being able to tackle being a mother, wife, counselor, and student all in one setting." Her most memorable moment as a teacher when she taught at another school and at graduation a student gave her a flower when they go out to give their parents a flower to thank her for the influence she had on him. O'Haver helped him pursue his dream to go into graphic arts. O'Haver has taught at five different schools but has always taught business education. She has taught at Unionville, Ashland [in Jefferson City], California, Atlanta, and now Knox County. After teaching for all of these years, she concluded that her biggest pet peeve when students blame others instead of taking responsibility for their actions. In ten years, she sees herself here at Knox County close to retirement. Once she retires, she is headed to the beach. Meeting Mr. Green
By: Megan Poston Mr. Green is a first-time teacher at Knox County High School, and it is also his first year teaching full-time, at any school. He graduated from Scotland County High School, and then attended Indian Hills Community College for two years to study mechanical technology. Mr. Green took time off before he went back to William Penn University to get his bachelor’s degree for teaching. He went back to college at the age of twenty-nine, while helping his wife raise two children and graduated with honors; he describes this time as his biggest achievement. Mr. Green teaches industrial technology at Knox County, which is a new program at our district. His father was the person who sparked his interest in industrial engineering, and they still work together building things today. “If we don’t have something, we make it,” says Mr. Green. He is excited for the electronics class, where the students will do electrical calculations and build circuit boards. Mr. Green’s biggest pet peeve in students is when they have a lack of ambition. “Come in, stay busy, and work; you don’t have to be perfect,” says Mr. Green. The most memorable moment for Mr. Green so far was when he had a student pass out on the third day of school. Outside of school, Mr. Green enjoys woodworking, metal fabrication, engineering design, and winter camping in the little free time that he does have, he says. Mr. Green describes himself using the words meticulous, resourceful, and creative. He hopes to be at Knox County for many years to come. |
Home for Gudehus
By: Shane Clary Mr. Gudehus is well known in our community, but he is a new face to the Knox County faculty. He is teaching math this year and his classes include Algebra and Fundamentals of Geometry. While Gudehus is new to teaching, the halls of Knox County are not new to him as he graduated high school here. He then attended Truman State University for his undergraduate degree and attained his Masters in Accounting at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Gudehus and his wife, Jackie, have been married 26 years. They met in college and now have four children. Casey is their oldest daughter who is 23, and currently serving in the Army. Natalie is 20 and a junior at Truman State University. Amy is 18 and is also enrolled at Truman as a freshman. Zoe is 16 and a junior at Knox County. When asked what he looks forward to while teaching at Knox, Gudehus said, "Honestly, a chance to be around younger people for longer than just a practice or a game. Teaching is a way I get to know them on a personal level and feel closer to what is going on in school." His biggest pet peeve from students is when they talk when they should be listening. Gudehus's father was a big influence in his life before he passed away. His father taught him how to deal with people when it seems impossible to work things out. "When thinking how to treat people, I think of my dad and how he treated others." One of the biggest accomplishments in his life is serving in the military for 21 years and being able to walk away for his own intentions. "My greatest accomplishment is deploying in three combat tours overseas," said Gudehus. In 10 years, Gudehus hopes to see himself still teaching and coaching here at Knox County. "Knox is home to me and there's no place I'd rather be." Introducing Mr. Short
By: Sydney Morrow Zachary S. Short is a new teacher at Knox County High School. He is teaching 11th and 12th grade Language Arts, Composition, and ACT Prep. Mr. Short is excited about his new adventure at Knox County because it is a change for him. The circumstances fell right in place for Mr. Short to score a teaching job at Knox County. "I wanted to teach. . . . The opportunity is the main reason I'm here, but it happens to be the greatest blessing because I have friends here. Obviously, Coach Summers is one of my best friends from my entire life, but through him I've met Coach Van Delft, Coach Vannoy, and Coach Sullens, and they've all became great friends. I've met their wives and their families. I've got to know the town. I got to know some kids before I came in. It was one of those times everything fell into place so perfectly it's almost out of a storybook." Mr. Short said. As a student in his class, you should not use "I myself" or "like" a lot. His proudest teaching moment comes from his former college teaching days. "I had a student one time that basically just could not read or write. We were trying to get him to pass this standards test, so he could get the credit he needed to get his Associate's [degree], and he worked really hard and he did it. I think I was more proud of him, than I was of myself." says Mr. Short. Outside of school, Mr. Short golfs and plays guitar. He is the sixth of seven children in his family. He also enjoys hanging out with his friends and their families. Mr. Short graduated High School from Hamilton High School in Illinois. After that, he attended Western Illinois University and got his bachelor's degree. He then continued to the University of Missouri-St. Louis to get his master's degree in English Literature. His future plans are to get a second master's degree and teach and coach somewhere around the Midwest. Summing Up Mrs. Hultz
By: Shane Clary Mrs. Hultz is a new teacher and member of the Eagle community. This is her first year being a full-time teacher and was hired on for the business teaching position. She teaches Accounting I and II, Desktop Publishing, Computer Apps, and Personal Finance. Mrs. Hultz is excited to get students prepared for their future, and have fun while doing it. Although, her biggest pet peeve is when students are lazy. Mrs. Hultz says, "Even though I haven't been teaching long, I love helping students who struggle and watch them figure it out and be proud they understand it." Ashley (Stice) Hultz is a graduate of the 2006 class from Highland high school. A highlight from her glorious high school days was going to state in softball and winning while going undefeated all season. She continued playing softball in college at John Wood Community College. Mrs. Hultz received her associates at JWCC and continued her education at Buena Vista University to receive her bachelor's degree in Business. She married her husband, Chris, in 2009 and has two step-children. They also have a son together, Dominic, who is now four. She enjoys staying active by playing slow pitch and volleyball, deer hunting, and fishing. Her future plans include buying land and building her dream house. She sees herself teaching at Knox County in ten years still because she loves being here. |