2017 FFA Banquet
By: Michael Carlson
With the 2016-17 school year coming to an end, it's time yet again for the FFA Banquet. This event is held to distribute recognition and awards to those who have accomplished great achievements this year in the FFA organization at Knox County. This year’s banquet was held in the Knox County high school gymnasium on May 15.
Many awards were given out, with the officer awards being one of the bigger accomplishments. This is where the current student officers of the Knox County FFA were given an award each for their individual office. As a result, Jennah Strange received the presidential award, Tanner Ellison and Laura Mayer received the vice-presidential award, Katie Hamlin earned the secretarial award, and Lindsey Hubble and Sidney Miller were given the treasury award.
Those who participated in this year’s State FFA Convention were also recognized as there were students who participated in team events, earned a proficiency award, and earned their State FFA Degree. The students who earned their State FFA Degree included Jennah Strange, Tanner Ellison, Skye Bugh, and Ian Kincaid. The parents of these four students were also announced as they were granted the title of an honorary state parent. Next, the proficiency award winners included Jennah Strange who earned an award in landscaping management, placing 1st in area and 2nd in state. Tanner Ellison received the proficiency award in swine production placing 1st in area, and Audrey Howe received the proficiency award in dairy production, also placing 1st in area.
Other awards were given out to students of all class levels. Freshman Sadie Snelling received the Star Greenhand Award, with sophomore Theresa Boatman earning the Star Chapter. Each year, a student from both the junior and senior class are presented with the Outstanding Student Award as well. At this 2017 FFA Banquet, Serena McCarty was presented the Outstanding Junior Award and Tanner Ellison earning the Outstanding Senior Award.
At the end of each year’s FFA Banquet, the future FFA officers step forward and are officially inducted into the office of the Knox County FFA Organization. This is considered a very important part of the banquet as the past officers pass the baton onto the future. This year’s current FFA president Jennah Strange passed on the leadership and responsibilities to the 2017-18 FFA president Amber Morgret. Laura Mayer and Audrey Howe were then given the office of Vice-President. Then, Chelsea Zahn received the duty of secretary, with Jaron Poor becoming treasurer. Other duties given out included Sadie Snelling earning reporter, Matthew Hunolt receiving sentinel, Sidney Miller as historian, and McKayla Griffith as chaplain.
A special thanks was given out to the Knox County administration, school board, community, and Clint and Angie Miller for their catering service as the 2017 Knox County FFA Banquet came to a close.
By: Michael Carlson
With the 2016-17 school year coming to an end, it's time yet again for the FFA Banquet. This event is held to distribute recognition and awards to those who have accomplished great achievements this year in the FFA organization at Knox County. This year’s banquet was held in the Knox County high school gymnasium on May 15.
Many awards were given out, with the officer awards being one of the bigger accomplishments. This is where the current student officers of the Knox County FFA were given an award each for their individual office. As a result, Jennah Strange received the presidential award, Tanner Ellison and Laura Mayer received the vice-presidential award, Katie Hamlin earned the secretarial award, and Lindsey Hubble and Sidney Miller were given the treasury award.
Those who participated in this year’s State FFA Convention were also recognized as there were students who participated in team events, earned a proficiency award, and earned their State FFA Degree. The students who earned their State FFA Degree included Jennah Strange, Tanner Ellison, Skye Bugh, and Ian Kincaid. The parents of these four students were also announced as they were granted the title of an honorary state parent. Next, the proficiency award winners included Jennah Strange who earned an award in landscaping management, placing 1st in area and 2nd in state. Tanner Ellison received the proficiency award in swine production placing 1st in area, and Audrey Howe received the proficiency award in dairy production, also placing 1st in area.
Other awards were given out to students of all class levels. Freshman Sadie Snelling received the Star Greenhand Award, with sophomore Theresa Boatman earning the Star Chapter. Each year, a student from both the junior and senior class are presented with the Outstanding Student Award as well. At this 2017 FFA Banquet, Serena McCarty was presented the Outstanding Junior Award and Tanner Ellison earning the Outstanding Senior Award.
At the end of each year’s FFA Banquet, the future FFA officers step forward and are officially inducted into the office of the Knox County FFA Organization. This is considered a very important part of the banquet as the past officers pass the baton onto the future. This year’s current FFA president Jennah Strange passed on the leadership and responsibilities to the 2017-18 FFA president Amber Morgret. Laura Mayer and Audrey Howe were then given the office of Vice-President. Then, Chelsea Zahn received the duty of secretary, with Jaron Poor becoming treasurer. Other duties given out included Sadie Snelling earning reporter, Matthew Hunolt receiving sentinel, Sidney Miller as historian, and McKayla Griffith as chaplain.
A special thanks was given out to the Knox County administration, school board, community, and Clint and Angie Miller for their catering service as the 2017 Knox County FFA Banquet came to a close.
Teacher Appreciation Week
By: Emily Nichols
Teacher Appreciation Week started on Monday, May 1st, and went through Friday, May 5th. It is important to show teachers how much you appreciate them and show them the respect they deserve. Many kids at Knox County have favorite teachers, and for each teacher there are different reasons. Some of the students from Knox County wrote messages for their favorite teachers. These messages explain why the teacher is their favorite and what they appreciate about them.
“My favorite teacher is Mrs. Greenley. I think so because I have been in her classes since 7th grade, and I have come to know her and appreciate her a great deal. I am able to talk to her about anything anytime; she really cares about her students. Mrs. Greenley works super hard on and off the clock and even takes time away from her family to give her students a pleasant high school experience. Things like, sponsoring and decorating for prom, being a yearbook adviser, and teaching journalism students. I will really miss her after I leave.” -Grace McCauley
“My favorite teacher is Mr. Kerr because you never know what to expect when you enter his room, and I enjoy to see the passion he has educating the student body. I have made a lot of good memories with Mr. Kerr and I've learned so much for him. I appreciate all he's done for our class the last two years we've had with him, and I'm looking forward to next year with him.”- Michael Carlson
“My favorite teacher is Ms. McNabb because she is always willing to put in her own time into students in order for them to get better grades. She also rewards students by bringing in desserts if they received an A average as a class. Ms. McNabb has allowed me to understand math in a way I would have never imagined and has allowed my love for math to grow extraordinarily.” -Madison McCabe
"While I never really cared for LA, I can say that Mr. Short did make it relatable to me and wasn't afraid to tell us when a particular section didn't make sense to him and was absolutely boring. Likewise, he was passionate about those stories he loved and promised we would too. He was right about some of them.”-Steven Powers
“My favorite teacher is Mrs. Barnhill. She is probably the most amazing person I know. Everytime I have any questions about anything, like school, or life, or college. She is always there for me. She gives me such great life advice and inspires me to be an great woman. Mrs. Barnhill I appreciate her because you listens to my pointless stories. She LITERALLY does everything for me. I will miss her dearly because she is like my second Mom. I literally run to her for every time I have a problem. These are the reasons Mrs. Barnhill is the best teacher ever!” -Ember McCauley
“Mrs. Lucas is one of my favorite teachers because she is helpful to students who don't understand what to do or how to do it. She encourages us to do our best with our work, and handles her students well. She lets us work at our own pace and lets us have extra time when needed. I appreciate her for her patience and hard work.” -Michelle Aaronson
“My favorite teacher is Mrs. Hicks because she is always willing to help. She cares about her students and she treats them equally. I appreciate that she will listen and will go out of her way to help you understand something. I once had a conflict with work and she gave me tips and advice on what to do.” -Laura Mayer
“Mr. Rayl is my favorite teacher, because he has always strived to make the band bigger and better. From the beginning he’s put a tremendous about of effort into our music program and helped form it from basically nothing. Mr. Rayl also has a great personality and a love for his students and his job. I am very thankful to have had him the past five years as a band director.” -Katie Whiles
By: Emily Nichols
Teacher Appreciation Week started on Monday, May 1st, and went through Friday, May 5th. It is important to show teachers how much you appreciate them and show them the respect they deserve. Many kids at Knox County have favorite teachers, and for each teacher there are different reasons. Some of the students from Knox County wrote messages for their favorite teachers. These messages explain why the teacher is their favorite and what they appreciate about them.
“My favorite teacher is Mrs. Greenley. I think so because I have been in her classes since 7th grade, and I have come to know her and appreciate her a great deal. I am able to talk to her about anything anytime; she really cares about her students. Mrs. Greenley works super hard on and off the clock and even takes time away from her family to give her students a pleasant high school experience. Things like, sponsoring and decorating for prom, being a yearbook adviser, and teaching journalism students. I will really miss her after I leave.” -Grace McCauley
“My favorite teacher is Mr. Kerr because you never know what to expect when you enter his room, and I enjoy to see the passion he has educating the student body. I have made a lot of good memories with Mr. Kerr and I've learned so much for him. I appreciate all he's done for our class the last two years we've had with him, and I'm looking forward to next year with him.”- Michael Carlson
“My favorite teacher is Ms. McNabb because she is always willing to put in her own time into students in order for them to get better grades. She also rewards students by bringing in desserts if they received an A average as a class. Ms. McNabb has allowed me to understand math in a way I would have never imagined and has allowed my love for math to grow extraordinarily.” -Madison McCabe
"While I never really cared for LA, I can say that Mr. Short did make it relatable to me and wasn't afraid to tell us when a particular section didn't make sense to him and was absolutely boring. Likewise, he was passionate about those stories he loved and promised we would too. He was right about some of them.”-Steven Powers
“My favorite teacher is Mrs. Barnhill. She is probably the most amazing person I know. Everytime I have any questions about anything, like school, or life, or college. She is always there for me. She gives me such great life advice and inspires me to be an great woman. Mrs. Barnhill I appreciate her because you listens to my pointless stories. She LITERALLY does everything for me. I will miss her dearly because she is like my second Mom. I literally run to her for every time I have a problem. These are the reasons Mrs. Barnhill is the best teacher ever!” -Ember McCauley
“Mrs. Lucas is one of my favorite teachers because she is helpful to students who don't understand what to do or how to do it. She encourages us to do our best with our work, and handles her students well. She lets us work at our own pace and lets us have extra time when needed. I appreciate her for her patience and hard work.” -Michelle Aaronson
“My favorite teacher is Mrs. Hicks because she is always willing to help. She cares about her students and she treats them equally. I appreciate that she will listen and will go out of her way to help you understand something. I once had a conflict with work and she gave me tips and advice on what to do.” -Laura Mayer
“Mr. Rayl is my favorite teacher, because he has always strived to make the band bigger and better. From the beginning he’s put a tremendous about of effort into our music program and helped form it from basically nothing. Mr. Rayl also has a great personality and a love for his students and his job. I am very thankful to have had him the past five years as a band director.” -Katie Whiles
NHS Inductions
By: Taylor Goodwin
National Honor Society Inductions were May 8 at 6 p.m. in the high school cafeteria. Sheyenne Schrage, president, gave an opening statement about the requirements and how each member and inductee were chosen for this honor. The National Honor Society motto is “Noble Obligation.” Each member has obtained a high academic record and has displayed good character and leadership inside and outside of the school. Members also serve our community through volunteer work.
Schrage also defined NHS colors and what they stand for. Blue and gold are the colors of our society. Blue stands for sincerity, piety, and truth. Gold stands for loyalty and honor.
Jennah Strange, Jacobi Miller, Tanner Ellison, and Shelton Boatman then broke down the words character, scholarship, leadership and service. The new inductees then stepped forward and lit a candle symbolizing the National Honor Society torch. Each inductee and former member then recited the pledge of National Honor Society and the inductees were declared members.
The 2017 National Honor Society Inductees are as followed:
Brandi Carlyle
Natalie Clark
Nickolas Edwards
Katie Hamlin
Landon Hodge
Kaylin Jones
Megan Meyer
Emily Nichols
Chelsea Zahn
By: Taylor Goodwin
National Honor Society Inductions were May 8 at 6 p.m. in the high school cafeteria. Sheyenne Schrage, president, gave an opening statement about the requirements and how each member and inductee were chosen for this honor. The National Honor Society motto is “Noble Obligation.” Each member has obtained a high academic record and has displayed good character and leadership inside and outside of the school. Members also serve our community through volunteer work.
Schrage also defined NHS colors and what they stand for. Blue and gold are the colors of our society. Blue stands for sincerity, piety, and truth. Gold stands for loyalty and honor.
Jennah Strange, Jacobi Miller, Tanner Ellison, and Shelton Boatman then broke down the words character, scholarship, leadership and service. The new inductees then stepped forward and lit a candle symbolizing the National Honor Society torch. Each inductee and former member then recited the pledge of National Honor Society and the inductees were declared members.
The 2017 National Honor Society Inductees are as followed:
Brandi Carlyle
Natalie Clark
Nickolas Edwards
Katie Hamlin
Landon Hodge
Kaylin Jones
Megan Meyer
Emily Nichols
Chelsea Zahn
SPIRT Celebrates Mentoring with a BBQ
By: Emily Nichols
May 12, 2017 was the Annual Mentoring BBQ sponsored by the S.P.I.R.I.T program. At the beginning of this school year, the freshman were assigned a teacher mentor who would help them adjust to entering high school. This barbecue is meant to bring the mentors and their freshman together one last time before they become sophomores.
The lunch included barbecued hotdogs and burgers, chips, an apple, and a cookie. Usually Andy Turgeon and Brian Brown barbecue the meals, but this year they are away for meetings. The janitors volunteered to take up the responsibility of grilling.
Jessica Wolf, who is a part of S.P.I.R.I.T, explained that this barbecue is meant to celebrate the end of the year. The S.P.I.R.I.T organization also extends the meal to all high schoolers in the hopes of the freshman being able to talk to the upperclassmen about what to expect in their upcoming years in high school.
By: Emily Nichols
May 12, 2017 was the Annual Mentoring BBQ sponsored by the S.P.I.R.I.T program. At the beginning of this school year, the freshman were assigned a teacher mentor who would help them adjust to entering high school. This barbecue is meant to bring the mentors and their freshman together one last time before they become sophomores.
The lunch included barbecued hotdogs and burgers, chips, an apple, and a cookie. Usually Andy Turgeon and Brian Brown barbecue the meals, but this year they are away for meetings. The janitors volunteered to take up the responsibility of grilling.
Jessica Wolf, who is a part of S.P.I.R.I.T, explained that this barbecue is meant to celebrate the end of the year. The S.P.I.R.I.T organization also extends the meal to all high schoolers in the hopes of the freshman being able to talk to the upperclassmen about what to expect in their upcoming years in high school.
Bright Futures
By: Morgan Miller
Bright Futures is new to Knox County and in order to bring awareness of the organization to the community they held a breakfast at the Community Center on April 21 from 7am to 8am. Nancy Goodwin is on the Advisory Board for Bright Futures. When asked what it is, she replied, “A community organization that is supposed to help gather all the resources we have so that we can better support our youth.”
Goodwin said in an interview that the advisory board sent invitations to area businesses in Knox County and a few in other counties. The breakfast consisted of a catered meal that was free to all that attended, student testimonials with a video, and information about where the advisors hope to see the organization go in our community. Goodwin said around fifty community members, board members, and students attended. She also said the breakfast was more to raise awareness than a fundraiser, but they did accept any donations that were offered.
Goodwin said the organization will help the school and community in any areas where they see a need. One of the more broad outreaches would be the Back-to-School Fair that gives students school supplies if they can’t afford them at the beginning of each school year. An example of another need that would be something more personal, for example, is if a student wants to participate in a sport but can’t afford the equipment to play, the organization could find the resources to supply that student with the equipment to be involved in that sport.
Goodwin also talked about how the organization is still in the planning stages and that it could be anything they want it to be at this point. She stated, “We will wait to see what needs arise and what direction we want to take.”
The advisor team went through a training with a Bright Futures representative where they learned many things, including what the organization is doing in other communities. For example, Goodwin said that in the Troy and Lincoln County area in Missouri, their Bright Futures organization does a prom resale where students can go and rent a prom dress for a small price and also do some community service. She also said they do this for the boys too, so they can afford to get tuxedos for prom.
The members on the Advisory Board are as follows, according to the agenda for the breakfast:
Rev. Rick Barnes - Co Chair
Jim Robertson - Co Chair
Robert Becker
Lori Moots-Clair
Graig Connell
Nancy Goodwin
Cheryl Hayes
Echo Menges
Michelle Peavler
Teresa Ross
The Sponsors for the organization are as follows:
Knox County Health Department
Knox County Community Center
Community Action Partnership of NE MO
Missouri Cares
By: Morgan Miller
Bright Futures is new to Knox County and in order to bring awareness of the organization to the community they held a breakfast at the Community Center on April 21 from 7am to 8am. Nancy Goodwin is on the Advisory Board for Bright Futures. When asked what it is, she replied, “A community organization that is supposed to help gather all the resources we have so that we can better support our youth.”
Goodwin said in an interview that the advisory board sent invitations to area businesses in Knox County and a few in other counties. The breakfast consisted of a catered meal that was free to all that attended, student testimonials with a video, and information about where the advisors hope to see the organization go in our community. Goodwin said around fifty community members, board members, and students attended. She also said the breakfast was more to raise awareness than a fundraiser, but they did accept any donations that were offered.
Goodwin said the organization will help the school and community in any areas where they see a need. One of the more broad outreaches would be the Back-to-School Fair that gives students school supplies if they can’t afford them at the beginning of each school year. An example of another need that would be something more personal, for example, is if a student wants to participate in a sport but can’t afford the equipment to play, the organization could find the resources to supply that student with the equipment to be involved in that sport.
Goodwin also talked about how the organization is still in the planning stages and that it could be anything they want it to be at this point. She stated, “We will wait to see what needs arise and what direction we want to take.”
The advisor team went through a training with a Bright Futures representative where they learned many things, including what the organization is doing in other communities. For example, Goodwin said that in the Troy and Lincoln County area in Missouri, their Bright Futures organization does a prom resale where students can go and rent a prom dress for a small price and also do some community service. She also said they do this for the boys too, so they can afford to get tuxedos for prom.
The members on the Advisory Board are as follows, according to the agenda for the breakfast:
Rev. Rick Barnes - Co Chair
Jim Robertson - Co Chair
Robert Becker
Lori Moots-Clair
Graig Connell
Nancy Goodwin
Cheryl Hayes
Echo Menges
Michelle Peavler
Teresa Ross
The Sponsors for the organization are as follows:
Knox County Health Department
Knox County Community Center
Community Action Partnership of NE MO
Missouri Cares
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Farm Bureau Day and Petting Zoo
By: Karissa Hamlin The Knox County FFA Chapter held their annual petting zoo for the elementary students during Farm Bureau Day on Wednesday, May 10th. Each elementary class was able to receive a tour from a FFA officer showing them the different animals that were there. The animals that were there and brought by are as listed: Frogs: Ian Kincaid and Nash Miller Fish: Matthew Hunolt, Jacob Cheatum, and Kyle Strange Turtles: Ian Kincaid Dogs: Brittany Harsel, Jared Peavler, and Sheyenne Scharge Cats: Reagan Winter and Cadie Violette Cattle: Jaron and Tristan Poor Goats: Chelsea Zahn Sheep: Chelsea Zahn Pigs: Garrett Mauck Rabbits: Chelsea Zahn Chickens/Waterfowl: Serena McCarty Mover/Equipment: Derek Cahalan and Isaiah Prebe Chinchilla: Josh Hamlin With the agricultural equipment there such as a tractor and mower, the students were also given an education on safety and how to act around equipment. A barbecue was held for the students working the petting zoo, and they all brought a side dish. The officers were also in charge of a room in the school where they prepared a Kahoot over facts about farm animals. “It is a great event for students to come out and be exposed to animals they wouldn’t normally see, and it gives them background information about farm animals,” said Miss Mallet. |
2017 Annual Rotary Banquet
By: Michael Carlson On Monday, May 1, The Knox County Rotary Club hosted the 2017 annual Rotary Banquet in the high school cafeteria. This event was established to recognize the students who are academically ranked in the top ten percent of their class, grades sixth to twelfth, as well as recognizing the seniors with a 4.0 Cumulative GPA or higher, presenting two scholarships, and honoring faculty who have worked at the school, reaching certain term milestones. The sixth grade students who were honored for placing in the top ten percent of their class included Ethan Campbell, Jeep Griffith, Austin Jansen, Hannah Miller, Kellen Parrish, Blake Parrish, Zoey Rack, and Keaton Strange. The seventh grade students who attended include Holden Goucher, Zachary Jansen, Branson Miller, Dylan Powers, and Taylor Walker. Eighth grade students who were recognized include Kaitlin Campbell, Matthew Carlson, Landon Hubble, Coltin Morrow, Elliott Ogden, Alyssa Peavler, Riley Strange, and Kylee Woods. The top ten percent of ninth graders included Grace Becker, John England, Jazzlynn Holman, and Arysta Snyder. Tenth graders who attended include Brandi Carlyle, Natalie Clark, Landon Hodge, and Jaron Poor. The eleventh graders recognized were Lindsey Alexander, Michael Carlson, Jullian Hurst, and Laura Mayer. Finally, the twelfth graders who were recognized for being in the top ten percent as well as receiving a 4.0 cumulative GPA or higher included Shelton Boatman, Zoe Gudehus, Karissa Hamlin, Madison McCabe, Jacobi Miller, Sam Skinner, and Kyle Strange. Every year the Knox County Rotary Club honors two individual senior students with a $500 scholarship. For 2017, the seniors who received this outstanding award was Sheyenne Schrage and Jacobi Miller. Near the end of the banquet, faculty are honed for achieving term milestones in the school system. Kisha Goodwin, Gale Hustead, Kim Miller, Jennifer Orton, and Matthew Rayl were all recognized for reaching five years serving in the Knox County School system. Lisa Clark and Andy Turgeon were awarded for serving ten years, and Marty Strange was recognized for dedicating twenty-five years to Knox County schools. Finally, a standing ovation was given to a lady who has served thirty-two years to this school and who has now decided to retire, Mrs. Frances Jones. Rotary Club has been hosting this annual banquet for years, as well as other ceremonies and events as the Knox County community relies greatly on this special organization. |
Spanish Club celebrating Cinco De Mayo
S.W.A.T Community Night
Morgan Miller
The middle school S.W.A.T. team stands for Students Will Advance Technology. Technology Specialist, Jennifer Orton, she said Nancy Goodwin, Brian Brown, and her visited a couple of schools near St. Louis and learned about their “help desk” about a year ago. It is where they got the idea to create their own “help desk” of students here at Knox County, which began this past March. Jennifer Orton also said she visited a conference last February and listened to other students talk about how they assisted their peers and teachers. That school worked with Chromebooks instead of iPads, like our school, but the idea is the same.
The vision for our middle school S.W.A.T. team is that each student who is on the team will learn about a certain app and be able to help their peers and fellow teachers understand and be able to use the apps to their full ability.
The students that are on the team at Knox are 8th graders. Orton said they already had a tech skills class so she presented the idea to them. Not all students in the eighth grade are a part of the team, though. The students applied to be on the team so it was a volunteer effort. They also had to have teacher recommendations to be on the team.
Orton said the team meets almost every day now because they have an event coming up on Friday, May 12. The event is open to the community to come and learn about social media apps. They will meet in the middle school and then break out into sessions to learn about each specific app. If you are interested in attending, RSVP by calling Gale in the middle school office at (660)-397-2228 ext. 301. You will be able to choose one session concerning one social media app.
The vision for the S.W.A.T. team next year is to be able to focus more on the apps that are on the iPads we have at school. In order for the students on the team to learn about them, Orton plans to have a mini Apple training camp to focus on the Apple apps already on the iPads. Because the team was created so late into the school year this year, Orton said they weren’t able to develop that mentor side of it. She hopes the team will develop more next year.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Community Night has been cancelled and will be rescheduled in the fall.
Morgan Miller
The middle school S.W.A.T. team stands for Students Will Advance Technology. Technology Specialist, Jennifer Orton, she said Nancy Goodwin, Brian Brown, and her visited a couple of schools near St. Louis and learned about their “help desk” about a year ago. It is where they got the idea to create their own “help desk” of students here at Knox County, which began this past March. Jennifer Orton also said she visited a conference last February and listened to other students talk about how they assisted their peers and teachers. That school worked with Chromebooks instead of iPads, like our school, but the idea is the same.
The vision for our middle school S.W.A.T. team is that each student who is on the team will learn about a certain app and be able to help their peers and fellow teachers understand and be able to use the apps to their full ability.
The students that are on the team at Knox are 8th graders. Orton said they already had a tech skills class so she presented the idea to them. Not all students in the eighth grade are a part of the team, though. The students applied to be on the team so it was a volunteer effort. They also had to have teacher recommendations to be on the team.
Orton said the team meets almost every day now because they have an event coming up on Friday, May 12. The event is open to the community to come and learn about social media apps. They will meet in the middle school and then break out into sessions to learn about each specific app. If you are interested in attending, RSVP by calling Gale in the middle school office at (660)-397-2228 ext. 301. You will be able to choose one session concerning one social media app.
The vision for the S.W.A.T. team next year is to be able to focus more on the apps that are on the iPads we have at school. In order for the students on the team to learn about them, Orton plans to have a mini Apple training camp to focus on the Apple apps already on the iPads. Because the team was created so late into the school year this year, Orton said they weren’t able to develop that mentor side of it. She hopes the team will develop more next year.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Community Night has been cancelled and will be rescheduled in the fall.
Missouri Boys and Girls State
By: Michael Carlson
Missouri Girls and Boys State is an eight-day experience where the best and brightest Missouri high school juniors come together to be lead down the pathway of success and leadership. This is a hands-on experience as the main focus is not just about learning, but doing. Whether you want to be a doctor, lawyer, professional athlete, or politician, the idea is that anyone has the power to change the world. At both Boys and Girls State, the students are asked to combine their knowledge and help form a government by using their values and beliefs of what is right for society. This method helps open the minds of the future generation, helping shape the future of our society.
Missouri 2017 Boys State will be taking place June 17-June 24 at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg. Knox has selected juniors Zachary English and Michael Carlson to be the two boys to attend this year. Following is Missouri Girls State, which will be held June 25-July 1, also at the University of Central Missouri. The school has selected Reagan Winter and Brooklyn Griffith as the 2017 girl juniors to attend.
The American Legion goes out of their way to sponsor and spread the word to receive donations that will help fund the students going on this trip. It's not the easiest to send a total of four students to Jefferson City.
APPLE DISTINGUISHED
By: Angel Rae Harrison
In February Knox County R-1 was visited by Jeff Oldfield, who oversees the education for Apple in our area. Oldfield wanted Knox County to apply to be an Apple Distinguished school. Oldfield saw that our school was on the right track with how we use iPads and Macs, how many we own, and how our teachers intertwine them into our everyday learning. In April, Knox County was deemed eligible to apply.
Knox County’s iGrow group is in the process of working on the application that is due at the end of August. The iGrow committee consists of Knox County administrators, Mr. Short, Mrs. Parrish, Mrs. Clark, Mr. Reel, and Mrs. Orton.
The nomination application that the iGrow group is working on is an iBook that consists of different chapters. The chapters have to include our school overview, the initiative our school has, how the iPads have transformed learning, teaching and curriculum design, and innovative learning spaces. Each person on the committee has been designated a chapter that they gather pictures and data, then they send their work to Mrs. Orton to compile into one IBook which will be submitted for our school's nomination.
Mrs. Orton is also in charge of the student learning chapter. She has recruited three of Knox County’s High School students, Jacobi Miller, Laura Mayer, and Natalie Clark to help her get an inside look on how our students handle the technology.
Apple Distinguished is a program that recognizes schools that use iPads or Macs to get kids to create, collaborate, and think critically about their learning. It is a way that kids hopefully get excited to learn. Students also have a chance to learn with the help of technology without being on paper, pencil and textbooks.
If we are accepted into Apple Distinguished then they will give us a banner to hang and a plaque. Our book will go out on the iBookstore under the Apple Distinguished program.
The iBook is due at the end of August and we will know if our school was accepted into the program in October.
For more information on the Apple Distinguished check out:
https://www.apple.com/education/apple-distinguished-schools/
By: Angel Rae Harrison
In February Knox County R-1 was visited by Jeff Oldfield, who oversees the education for Apple in our area. Oldfield wanted Knox County to apply to be an Apple Distinguished school. Oldfield saw that our school was on the right track with how we use iPads and Macs, how many we own, and how our teachers intertwine them into our everyday learning. In April, Knox County was deemed eligible to apply.
Knox County’s iGrow group is in the process of working on the application that is due at the end of August. The iGrow committee consists of Knox County administrators, Mr. Short, Mrs. Parrish, Mrs. Clark, Mr. Reel, and Mrs. Orton.
The nomination application that the iGrow group is working on is an iBook that consists of different chapters. The chapters have to include our school overview, the initiative our school has, how the iPads have transformed learning, teaching and curriculum design, and innovative learning spaces. Each person on the committee has been designated a chapter that they gather pictures and data, then they send their work to Mrs. Orton to compile into one IBook which will be submitted for our school's nomination.
Mrs. Orton is also in charge of the student learning chapter. She has recruited three of Knox County’s High School students, Jacobi Miller, Laura Mayer, and Natalie Clark to help her get an inside look on how our students handle the technology.
Apple Distinguished is a program that recognizes schools that use iPads or Macs to get kids to create, collaborate, and think critically about their learning. It is a way that kids hopefully get excited to learn. Students also have a chance to learn with the help of technology without being on paper, pencil and textbooks.
If we are accepted into Apple Distinguished then they will give us a banner to hang and a plaque. Our book will go out on the iBookstore under the Apple Distinguished program.
The iBook is due at the end of August and we will know if our school was accepted into the program in October.
For more information on the Apple Distinguished check out:
https://www.apple.com/education/apple-distinguished-schools/
Elementary students participating in Field Day
Prom 2017: Enchanted Forest
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Art Club Takes a Trip
By: Cage Kirmse 10 students from the Knox County Art Club took a trip to St. Louis on April 12th. They first went to the St. Louis Art Museum to look at some pieces of art. Then they went and ate lunch at the Sculpture Park. The Sculpture Park included 12 different sculptures that the students could observe. Following this, the kids went to City Museum. They had a lot of different activities for the kids to explore including a 10 story slide. They also had caves for the kids to explore and an outdoor jungle gym. |
Enchanted Forest: Prom 2017
By: Karissa Hamlin The theme for Knox County’s annual Junior/Senior prom is “The Enchanted Forest,” and it will be held on Saturday April 29, 2017. Grand March will start at 7 p.m. in the High School Gym with prom in the Elementary gym starting at 8 p.m.. Grand March doors will open at 6:30 p.m. with prom being open to the public from 5:30-6:30 p.m.. The juniors will be accountable for decorating both gyms that week of prom. There will be a prom banquet being hosted at the Knox County Community Center, which is sponsored by Knox County Health Department, Rotary, and the Community Center. Kids can pick up their tickets in the high school office that are $10 a piece with the meal starting at 5:30 p.m.. The meal will continue until the last ticket is served, which will be completed by 7 p.m. for Grand March at the school. The meal includes the choice of steak or chicken, potato, a vegetable, salad, and a dessert. All proceeds go to the junior class for next year for prom. The four queen candidates include Morgan Miller, Grade McCauley, Jennah Strange, and Zoe Gudehus. Miller is the daughter of Craig and Bonnie Miller. She participates in Yearbook, Eagle Nation News, and is the dance team manager. McCauley is the daughter of the late Tim McCauley and Melissa McCauley. She participates in Basketball Cheerleading, Theatre, National Honor Society, is the FBLA Vice President, FCA, the Thespian Society Vice President, and Yearbook. Strange is the daughter of Kent and Lori Strange. She is involved in National Honor Society as the Vice President, FFA President, Area III FFA Historian, Spanish Club, Dance Team, Cheerleading, and Track and Field. Gudehus is the daughter of Keith and Jackie Gudehus. She participates in Drama Club, National Honor Society, Campus Bowl, International Thespian Society, FCA, and is the Senior Class President. The four king candidates include Kyle Strange, Shelton Boatman, Cage Kirmse, and Samuel Skinner. Strange is the son of Kirk and Marty Strange. He participates in FFA, National Honor Society, Trapshooting, Basketball, Baseball, Track and Field, A+, and FCA. Boatman is the son of Tom and Rachel Boatman. He participates in Football, Baseball, Cheerleading, Campus Bowl, National Honor Society, FFA, and International Thespian Society. Kirmse is the son of Curt and Kim Harrison and Dan Kirmse. He participates in Eagle Nation News and Football. Skinner is the son of Tim and Rebecca Skinner. He is involved in Band, Track and Field, National Honor Society, Spanish Club, and Student Council. The prom king and queen of this year will be crowned by the 2016 royalty, Madison Yoakum and Jared Carlson. |
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Thespians Put on Spring Show
By: Taylor Goodwin On April 21 and 22 the Knox County High School drama department put on a production of “Almost, Maine” in the high school gym. The students spent months preparing to perform this play. The students told the story of 14 people falling in and out of love in the town of Almost, Maine. Their director was Truman State University Construction Major, Eva Trunzo. The cast consisted of seven high school students, that played two people, whose roles were as followed: Jacobi Miller- Jimmy and Lendal Aria Bowman - Sandrine and Ginette Wesley Ward -Pete and Steve Shelby York- East and Daniel Natalie Clark- Hope and Marvalyn Zoe Gudehus- Glory and Gayle Sarah Sanders- Villian and Suzette The play opened with Pete and Ginette sitting on a park bench confessing their love with to each other. The scene ends with Pete telling Ginette that, just when she thinks they’re as close as they can be, they’re actually farther apart. Ginette flees and we continue to see Pete waiting on the bench for her throughout the play. Throughout the rest of the play we see Jimmy, Sandrine and Villian, Lendal and Gayle, East and Glory, Steve and Marvalyn, and Hope, Daniel and Suzette go through similar struggles with love. |
Spring Activity Night in the Elementary
By: Hayden Miller Activity Night took place on Thursday, April 20. Lisa Clark and Karen Hodge were in charge of running it. The theme for the spring activity night was “Calling All Superheroes.” It was held for grades K-5, and about 80 students attended. Students dressed up in superhero capes and masks. The students did a breakout session where students had to work on math and reading skills to help Superman find his ticket to go to the movies. Clark says, “There were also craft, snack and story stations where students got to make their own superhero masks, have a snack and listen to stories about superheroes.” In another station students had to work together to solve a mystery about the super bad superhero. |
State FFA Convention
By: Michael Carlson
On April 20-21, three of Knox County’s FFA teams headed down to Columbia, MO where the 2017 Missouri State FFA Convention was held. There, events and ceremonies took place. These various events were held between different high school teams, competing for first place in a certain category. These teams consisted individually of four people, so Knox had twelve total students competing. The categories of our teams included Livestock, Dairy Foods, and Farm Management. Although, other students were sent down as well due to ceremonies where they were awarded their State FFA Degree. These students included Jennah Strange, Tanner Ellison, Skye Bugh, and Ian Kincaid.
Knox’s Livestock team went on to place 20th out of 59 teams, with Tanner Ellison placing 10th out of 231 individuals. The Dairy Foods team placed 31st out of 45 teams, and Farm Management placed 35th out of 49. Afterwards, Jennah Strange received the proficiency award in landscaping management, placing 1st in area and 2nd in state. Also, Tanner Ellison received the proficiency award in swine production placing 1st in area, and Audrey Howe received the proficiency award in dairy production also placing 1st in area.
Congratulations to all those who participated in this year’s Missouri State FFA Convention and those who earned their State Degree and Proficiency Award.
By: Michael Carlson
On April 20-21, three of Knox County’s FFA teams headed down to Columbia, MO where the 2017 Missouri State FFA Convention was held. There, events and ceremonies took place. These various events were held between different high school teams, competing for first place in a certain category. These teams consisted individually of four people, so Knox had twelve total students competing. The categories of our teams included Livestock, Dairy Foods, and Farm Management. Although, other students were sent down as well due to ceremonies where they were awarded their State FFA Degree. These students included Jennah Strange, Tanner Ellison, Skye Bugh, and Ian Kincaid.
Knox’s Livestock team went on to place 20th out of 59 teams, with Tanner Ellison placing 10th out of 231 individuals. The Dairy Foods team placed 31st out of 45 teams, and Farm Management placed 35th out of 49. Afterwards, Jennah Strange received the proficiency award in landscaping management, placing 1st in area and 2nd in state. Also, Tanner Ellison received the proficiency award in swine production placing 1st in area, and Audrey Howe received the proficiency award in dairy production also placing 1st in area.
Congratulations to all those who participated in this year’s Missouri State FFA Convention and those who earned their State Degree and Proficiency Award.
Knox County Art Show Highlights Students' Work
By: Emily Nichols
The Knox County Art Show took place on April 7th. The Art Show was the first one for our school. The winners of each category won the opportunity to get out of 3 sketches in class and a box of candy.
The Knox County Courthouse also held a competition. The winner's artwork will be showcased at the courthouse for years to come. Jacob Sanders' digital artwork of an eagle won the competition.
In the pencil category, Jacob Sanders won first place, Derek Cahalan received second place, and Shelby Walker received third place.
The second category was pen. The first place winner was Taylor Goodwin, second place was Hope Miller, and third was Ian Kincaid.
The third category was painting. Ashlyn Jones won first place and Best of Show. The second place winner was Jacob Sanders. Third place winner was Joseph Aaronson.
The fourth category was color pencils. Taylor Goodwin won first place. John England received second place. Kyle Strange received third.
The sculpture categories were split into two groups. The winner of Sculpture 1 was Brooklyn Griffith. Second place went to Madison Easley, and third place went to Serena McCarty.
The Sculpture 2 group winner was Michelle Aaronson. Hope Miller received second place. Michelle Aaronson was rewarded with third.
The last category was Mixed Media the first place winner of the category was Michelle Aaronson. Airyck Blazer was rewarded with second place. Hope Miller received third place.
The AG Mechanics class also entered some work to the show to showcase their work.
By: Emily Nichols
The Knox County Art Show took place on April 7th. The Art Show was the first one for our school. The winners of each category won the opportunity to get out of 3 sketches in class and a box of candy.
The Knox County Courthouse also held a competition. The winner's artwork will be showcased at the courthouse for years to come. Jacob Sanders' digital artwork of an eagle won the competition.
In the pencil category, Jacob Sanders won first place, Derek Cahalan received second place, and Shelby Walker received third place.
The second category was pen. The first place winner was Taylor Goodwin, second place was Hope Miller, and third was Ian Kincaid.
The third category was painting. Ashlyn Jones won first place and Best of Show. The second place winner was Jacob Sanders. Third place winner was Joseph Aaronson.
The fourth category was color pencils. Taylor Goodwin won first place. John England received second place. Kyle Strange received third.
The sculpture categories were split into two groups. The winner of Sculpture 1 was Brooklyn Griffith. Second place went to Madison Easley, and third place went to Serena McCarty.
The Sculpture 2 group winner was Michelle Aaronson. Hope Miller received second place. Michelle Aaronson was rewarded with third.
The last category was Mixed Media the first place winner of the category was Michelle Aaronson. Airyck Blazer was rewarded with second place. Hope Miller received third place.
The AG Mechanics class also entered some work to the show to showcase their work.
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Cadaver Trip
By: Angel Rae Harrison
On Wednesday, April 12 Knox County’s anatomy class visited A.T. Still University in Kirksville, MO. The 6 students and Mrs. Barnhill toured the cadaver lab with Jeremey Houser, a professor at the university. The students got to look, touch, and learn about the anatomy of the human body.
The students were able to touch brains, hearts, lungs, and other organs. They then examined about 30 bodies that were donated to the school.
Senior, Lindsey Hubble, is going into the nursing field next year. She expressed how educational the trip was for her and how it only reassured her of the choice of field that she will be pursuing. Hubble also enjoyed learning how the donated individuals passed and the seeing the different effect it had on their bodies.
By: Angel Rae Harrison
On Wednesday, April 12 Knox County’s anatomy class visited A.T. Still University in Kirksville, MO. The 6 students and Mrs. Barnhill toured the cadaver lab with Jeremey Houser, a professor at the university. The students got to look, touch, and learn about the anatomy of the human body.
The students were able to touch brains, hearts, lungs, and other organs. They then examined about 30 bodies that were donated to the school.
Senior, Lindsey Hubble, is going into the nursing field next year. She expressed how educational the trip was for her and how it only reassured her of the choice of field that she will be pursuing. Hubble also enjoyed learning how the donated individuals passed and the seeing the different effect it had on their bodies.
Elementary celebrates the 100th day of school
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Knox County Middle School Quiz Bowl Tournament By: Michael Carlson The 2016 Knox County Middle School Quiz Bowl Tournament will take place on Friday, January 21 at 4:30 p.m in the high school. There are six total schools competing, adding up to a total of 17 teams, as there are both 6th grade and 7th & 8th grade teams. The other schools participating include Scotland, Highland, North Shelby, Brashear, and Palmyra. Those who finish in the top three tiers: first, second, and third, will be recognized in both divisions: 6th grade and 7th & 8th grade. The games will take place in six high school classrooms, each containing a reader, scorekeeper, and timer/recognizer. The NHS students are volunteering to help, and the Band Boosters will have a food stand set up in the cafeteria. |
WGEM Academic Bowl
By: Emily Nichols
On January 20th the Knox County High School Campus Bowl team traveled to WGEM, in Quincy, Illinois to compete in the WGEM Academic Bowl. This tournament was is single elimination. Their first match was against Unity, which they won . During the next round of the tournament, the team faced Quincy Notre Dam. This competition was aired
The members are Zoe Gudehus, Shelton Bowmen, Sam Skinner, Jacobi Miller, Amber Morgret, Shelby York, Brandi Carlyle, and Nash Miller.
The Campus Bowl team practices every Tuesday at 7 a.m. They will practice on old test questions from previous years.
If the Knox County Campus Bowl team wins the first round they will be on tv, on the WGEM News Channel.
By: Emily Nichols
On January 20th the Knox County High School Campus Bowl team traveled to WGEM, in Quincy, Illinois to compete in the WGEM Academic Bowl. This tournament was is single elimination. Their first match was against Unity, which they won . During the next round of the tournament, the team faced Quincy Notre Dam. This competition was aired
The members are Zoe Gudehus, Shelton Bowmen, Sam Skinner, Jacobi Miller, Amber Morgret, Shelby York, Brandi Carlyle, and Nash Miller.
The Campus Bowl team practices every Tuesday at 7 a.m. They will practice on old test questions from previous years.
If the Knox County Campus Bowl team wins the first round they will be on tv, on the WGEM News Channel.
Adding New Technology to the Shop
By: Hayden Miller
By: Hayden Miller
Over the holiday break, Knox County schools added to the technology available to students in the shop. A plasma cutter has joined the other technologies and tools in the shop due to the dedication of Mr. Rich Green, the Industrial Arts teacher. Seniors, Kyle Strange and Tanner Marble assisted Mr. Green in assembling the new plasma cutter. They came in the Monday and Tuesday after Christmas and spent all day helping Green assemble it. Mr. Green said “There was a lot of bolting and putting pieces together.” Green then spent the next two days troubleshooting and getting out all the wrinkles out of the system. Green said he called tech support several times, once because the wires didn't match what the instructions had, another because they had to take control of the computer from Reno where the company is based out of and he had to download multiple things.
The new plasma cutter will allow students to learn a new set of skills. Mr. Green said, “There are multiple things you can do with the plasma cutter, and students are getting ready to cut half inch and three-eighths inch plates of metal, for which they will be making a grapple bucket for a skid steer. We have just been cutting 16 gauge stuff, but we are going to try it out on some thick stuff.” The students can do metal artwork and structural pieces, while they can also replace the torch with a router and do wood panels as well. It can cut thin gauge all the way up to three quarter inch. Green said he was going to try to cut some quarter inch plate, but doesn't think it will work due to the electricians not putting heavy enough wire.
Mr. Green brought up the idea of buying a plasma cutter during his first year teaching. Green had experience with one at Iowa State which he grew to love. He talked to the superintendent, Andy Turgeon, and then started going around to local businesses gathering donations to help fund it. Green then applied for a MFA Oil Grant and received two thousand dollars from them. Following this, Mr. Green demonstrated some of the work a plasma cutter could do to the school board and Mr. Turgeon. They loved the idea and got on board with purchasing one and ordered one in October.
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FFA Motivational Conference
By: Angel Harrison Knox County's FFA Greenhand members went on a trip to Truman State University on January 4th. Accompanying the 12 Knox County freshmen was KCHS senior, Jennah Strange, who serves as an Area 3 officer and advisor, Ms. Mallett. The Area Motivational Conference is held once a year and is always held at Truman State University. The members played various games and had the opportunity to meet other FFA members from different schools. Strange spoke at the meeting to several groups about the importance of being an FFA member. One point she that she hoped students took away from the conference was to stay involved in FFA all four years of high school career and make friends through it. |
FFA Chili Cook-Off
By: Karissa Hamlin At the January FFA meeting members had their Annual Chili and Dessert Cook-Off competition. The chili categories included best overall, spiciest, and sweetest. The dessert categories included best overall, most unique, and most chocolate. Senior officers were the judges of the chili and desserts which were judged and ate by all after the meeting. In the chili competition, freshman, Jared Peavler, won both best overall and spiciest, while sophomore, Matthew Hunolt, won the sweetest. Four members brought chili and participated in the competition. For the dessert cook-off, sophomore, Nash Miller, won best overall with his chocolate covered bacon. Jared Peavler won the most unique with his brownies, and sophomore, Garrett Mauck, won the most chocolate with his cookies. Each winner received candy and a free homework pass to use in Ms. Mallett's class. |
District Band Honors
By: Emily Nichols
On January 14, Knox County senior, Cris Bowman will be performing at Moberly High School as part of the District Band. Bowman attended the District Band audition on November 4 in Moberly. The Northeastern District comprises of students from schools ranging from Class 1 all the way to Class 5. Bowman was chosen to be a member at the auditions and he will play the trumpet.
Update: Unfortunately, due to weather this weekend they had to cancel the Concert. Even though they will not be able to perform it is still a high honor to make it on the team.
By: Emily Nichols
On January 14, Knox County senior, Cris Bowman will be performing at Moberly High School as part of the District Band. Bowman attended the District Band audition on November 4 in Moberly. The Northeastern District comprises of students from schools ranging from Class 1 all the way to Class 5. Bowman was chosen to be a member at the auditions and he will play the trumpet.
Update: Unfortunately, due to weather this weekend they had to cancel the Concert. Even though they will not be able to perform it is still a high honor to make it on the team.
KCMS Band Concert
By: Cage Kirmse
The middle school band performed their Christmas concert on Wednesday, January 11 at 6:00 p.m. in the high school gym. The concert was originally set for December, but due to inclement weather it had to be rescheduled.
The 6th grade band consists of 23 students. The students played a variety of songs for the concert including some Christmas music, as well as other songs from their music book. Students also played solos, duets, and trios.
The 7th grade band is made up of nine students. They performed four Christmas songs at the beginning of the concert, and then played percussion while the 6th graders played their songs.
The next concert for the middle school band will be the Spring concert on May 11.
By: Cage Kirmse
The middle school band performed their Christmas concert on Wednesday, January 11 at 6:00 p.m. in the high school gym. The concert was originally set for December, but due to inclement weather it had to be rescheduled.
The 6th grade band consists of 23 students. The students played a variety of songs for the concert including some Christmas music, as well as other songs from their music book. Students also played solos, duets, and trios.
The 7th grade band is made up of nine students. They performed four Christmas songs at the beginning of the concert, and then played percussion while the 6th graders played their songs.
The next concert for the middle school band will be the Spring concert on May 11.
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SAM Students
By: Angel Harrison One of Knox County’s seniors, Karissa Hamlin, was a SAM student this past semester for Mrs. Martin’s 3rd grade class. Hamlin had learned a lot about the children and how each one learned differently. She helped each student by using different methods of teaching so each could understand. Hamlin would recommend doing SAM to upcoming seniors because she had a lot of fun helping with the students. She enjoyed reading to the children almost every day too. Hamlin enjoyed how the students would involve her with their class and daily lives. Mrs. Jones, the elementary principal, has the SAM students do a project at the end of each semester. Hamlin created an IMovie with pictures captioning what they were doing and the names of students. Hamlin enjoyed this past semester and is thankful for being apart of Mrs. Martin’s class. |
Last row (left to right): Jeremy Yoakum, Hays Klocke, and Isaiah Prebe
Middle row (left to right): Mr. Green, Trenton Cochenour, Jacob Bryant, Derek Cahalan, and Austin Snelling Front row (left to right): Ryan Easley, Tanner Marble, Kyle Strange, and Josh Hamlin Students Become Briggs & Stratton Certified By: Jacobi Miller Mr. Green is the Industrial Technology teacher at Knox County High School. He had his eleven students take a Briggs & Stratton certification course . They had to accomplish many different tests and projects to be able to get certified. The students had to pass 11 exams which took whole semester to complete, because of how intense and in depth these tests were. They didn’t just take tests; The students also did a lot of hands-on assignments. They started with a clear carburetor with dyed water in it and then hooked it up to the vacuum, and you could see how all the different ports and jets worked inside the carburetor. Then they took the carburetor apart. On Schoology, they had a breakdown of the carburetor and a step by step of how to take carburetor off, disassemble it, inspect, and put it all back together. Then they put the carburetor back on the engine and moved into compression, which covered the valves and rings. Then they had to pull the head off the motor and physically take it apart. They set the valve clearance and took a test. The students did this on everything until they took apart and reassembled a whole motor and it had to start within five pulls. A few students had to go back and tweak their governor system, because it wanted to run away with itself. There were also videos to watch during class discussions to help understand the breakdown of different parts. Now that they have this certification, they can have an edge over other applicants at small engine repair shops, because they are already certified by Briggs and Stratton. Mr Green hopes to get all the boys at least certified with bronze in two cycle steel during the second semester. This is a huge accomplishment for the students to be already certified and have experience from doing so. |
Alpha Delta Kappa
By: Emily Nichols
ADK stands for Alpha Delta Kapa, which is an international women's educational sorority. Knox County has represented this organization for over 60 years. At Knox County there are 10 members who take part in this sorority. The members include: Dr. Marty Strange, Mrs. Laura Greenley, Mrs. Frances Jones, Mrs. Nancy Goodwin, Mrs. Joyce Delaney, Mrs. Kim Miller, and Mrs. Jessica Erwin. Members who have retired from Knox County are Mrs. Bev Peters, Mrs. Lori Wallace and Mrs. Cheryl Mayes.
ADK members do many service projects for our community and other teachers. Things that they organize are Adopt-a-Child, bell ringing, a paint night for other teachers, and collect grant money.
Dr. Marty Strange is the President of the Knox County Alpha Delta Kapa, and she has been a member of this organization for 8 years. Her duties as President consist of running the meeting for the local chapter and reporting to the state level. Strange's favorite thing about being a member of ADK is the support she gets from her “sisters”.
According to ADK's website, "Alpha Delta Kappa was founded in 1947 by Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino. These visionary women saw a need to recognize and support the professional efforts of outstanding women educators. Since 1947, over 125,000 women educators around the world have discovered the many opportunities provided by membership in Alpha Delta Kappa — opportunities for recognition of commitment to educational excellence, for personal and professional growth and for collectively channeling their energies toward the good of schools, communities, the teaching profession and the world."
By: Emily Nichols
ADK stands for Alpha Delta Kapa, which is an international women's educational sorority. Knox County has represented this organization for over 60 years. At Knox County there are 10 members who take part in this sorority. The members include: Dr. Marty Strange, Mrs. Laura Greenley, Mrs. Frances Jones, Mrs. Nancy Goodwin, Mrs. Joyce Delaney, Mrs. Kim Miller, and Mrs. Jessica Erwin. Members who have retired from Knox County are Mrs. Bev Peters, Mrs. Lori Wallace and Mrs. Cheryl Mayes.
ADK members do many service projects for our community and other teachers. Things that they organize are Adopt-a-Child, bell ringing, a paint night for other teachers, and collect grant money.
Dr. Marty Strange is the President of the Knox County Alpha Delta Kapa, and she has been a member of this organization for 8 years. Her duties as President consist of running the meeting for the local chapter and reporting to the state level. Strange's favorite thing about being a member of ADK is the support she gets from her “sisters”.
According to ADK's website, "Alpha Delta Kappa was founded in 1947 by Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino. These visionary women saw a need to recognize and support the professional efforts of outstanding women educators. Since 1947, over 125,000 women educators around the world have discovered the many opportunities provided by membership in Alpha Delta Kappa — opportunities for recognition of commitment to educational excellence, for personal and professional growth and for collectively channeling their energies toward the good of schools, communities, the teaching profession and the world."
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The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Editoral by: Karissa Hamlin Christmas is a time to be able to gather around with people you love and celebrate the birth of Jesus. I am always swamped around Christmas time because I have so many family Christmas gatherings to attend, and I love it. I enjoy getting to spend the quality time with my family. Every year, my family attends the Christmas Eve service at my church together. This year I plan to go to Midnight Mass as well. My dad, sister, and I always go shopping together to buy my mom’s presents. We always make a day out of it for quality bonding time. We have always ate Steak’ n Shake while we went shopping in Quincy, but this year we switched it up and ate Chinese instead. My mom and I usually get most of the Christmas shopping done on Black Friday, and we enjoy doing that together. My sister usually does the gift wrapping because she’s good at it and enjoys it. We always try and have our Christmas tree up right after Thanksgiving because my mom likes to have it up early. Getting the tree up this early really puts me in the Christmas spirit. We always get a real one and use to always go to a Christmas tree farm, but now someone usually just goes and picks it up because we are so busy to try and get all of us together at one time to just get a tree. This year, we are having Christmas at my Grandma Judy’s the weekend before Christmas on Saturday where there will be about thirty-five people there. Then, the following day we will attend my great grandma’s Christmas at the Community Center where there will be over seventy people there. The next weekend we will be getting together with my mom’s side of the family, and that will be hosted at our house. All of the family will be staying with us Friday night where we will play games and then the next day we will do our gift exchange. It’s tradition for us to play the movie Christmas Vacation all day long. We will all quote the movie because we know it word for word. We all enjoy that movie and think that it’s so funny. If we watch it before Christmas without us all around, we start a group chat where we text each other quotes from the movie, then the others’ will text back quotes too. Christmas is my favorite holiday because you get to spend time with your family where everyone gets together and enjoy eachothers company. Some people think that Christmas is all about gifts, but it’s much more than that. It’s about how Jesus brought us all together and that we should all come together and celebrate that. I am so thankful for having such a close family that I can celebrate this holiday with and have in my life. |
Elementary Students Spread Holiday Cheer
By: Emily Nichols Every year the Knox County Elementary students perform a Christmas program for the Knox County Community. The students performed on Wednesday December, 7 at 1:30 p.m and 6 p.m. at the Knox County High School Gymnasium. This production was directed by Mrs. Kimberly Henry, the music teacher. The playing of the piano was done by Mrs. Marsha Pinson. The Kindergarten performed the songs “Jingle Bells,” “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”. The First Graders sang “Away in a Manger,” “Up on the Housetop,” and “All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth”. After that, the Second Grade classes sang “Silent Night,” “Deck the Halls,” and “Frosty The Snowman”. Third Graders performed “Joy To the World,” “Oh Christmas Tree,” and “A Holly Jolly Christmas”. Following, the Fourth Graders sang “The First Noel,” “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” and “Rockin Around the Christmas Tree”. Then the Fifth Grade class performed a musical called “The Incredible Reindeer”. The school wanted to give a thank you to principal, Mrs. Frances Jones; Mrs. Wendy Kerry and Mr. Bobbette Kelley, Fifth Grade teachers; Mr. Matt Rayl, sound; Mrs. Marsha Pinson, accompanist; Mrs. Carolyn Morgret, Costuming; The Knox County R-1 Elementary teachers; and the Knox County R-1 Maintenance Department. |
Sophomores Learn About Future Opportunities
By: Karissa Hamlin
On December 2 the sophomore class of Knox County attended a career fair at the Kirksville Area Technical Center with Mrs. O’Haver as their chaperone. Students from Novinger, Brashear, and Milan also attended. The students were given the opportunity to hear about four different careers during twenty-five minute sessions. Twenty-two different speakers were available to choose from. The careers that were being presented ranged anywhere from a personal trainer to a construction worker. The speakers discussed how what it took to get to their career and what the job entails.
“The students were informed about the duties within that career, work environment, salary, and how to become one. Students were also able to ask specific questions,” said Mrs. O’Haver.
By: Karissa Hamlin
On December 2 the sophomore class of Knox County attended a career fair at the Kirksville Area Technical Center with Mrs. O’Haver as their chaperone. Students from Novinger, Brashear, and Milan also attended. The students were given the opportunity to hear about four different careers during twenty-five minute sessions. Twenty-two different speakers were available to choose from. The careers that were being presented ranged anywhere from a personal trainer to a construction worker. The speakers discussed how what it took to get to their career and what the job entails.
“The students were informed about the duties within that career, work environment, salary, and how to become one. Students were also able to ask specific questions,” said Mrs. O’Haver.
High School Food Drive
By: Emily Nichols
The annual Knox County Food Drive, hosted by Student Council, will begin on Monday, December 5 and will last for 2 weeks, ending on December 16. Students are encouraged to bring in as much food as they can. Grade level classes will compete in a competition to see which class can collect the most. One food item will be the equivalence of one point. There will also be a chance to penalize other grade levels by putting canned corn into their food containers. If a corn product is in a grades' collection container that is minus five points. The grade level with the most points will receive a prize; that has yet to be determined.
There will also be a chance to earn bonus points during the Food Drive. The bonus pack consists of 12 items: one roll of paper towels, a package of toilet paper, a toothbrush, toothpaste, dish soap, hand soap, body wash, deodorant, hand sanitizer, shampoo, conditioner, and bathroom or kitchen cleaner. If classes collect all 12 of these items, it will be an additional 100 points.
By: Emily Nichols
The annual Knox County Food Drive, hosted by Student Council, will begin on Monday, December 5 and will last for 2 weeks, ending on December 16. Students are encouraged to bring in as much food as they can. Grade level classes will compete in a competition to see which class can collect the most. One food item will be the equivalence of one point. There will also be a chance to penalize other grade levels by putting canned corn into their food containers. If a corn product is in a grades' collection container that is minus five points. The grade level with the most points will receive a prize; that has yet to be determined.
There will also be a chance to earn bonus points during the Food Drive. The bonus pack consists of 12 items: one roll of paper towels, a package of toilet paper, a toothbrush, toothpaste, dish soap, hand soap, body wash, deodorant, hand sanitizer, shampoo, conditioner, and bathroom or kitchen cleaner. If classes collect all 12 of these items, it will be an additional 100 points.
MSHP Presents to High School Students
By: Angel Harrison
Knox County High School was visited by Sergeant Brent J. Bernhardt from the Missouri State Highway Patrol on November 29th. He presented to students about safe driving, how to act when being pulled over by an officer, and the impact of what drinking and driving has on others. Sergeant Bernhardt also showed the student body a video of real-life car accidents in Missouri and of students and adults telling their stories of the accidents they were involved in. The interviews of the volunteers who gave their stories were very emotional and hard to watch. Some of the accidents resulted in death of loved ones or involved very serious injuries.
Knox County senior, Hope Miller, said that she has been in three different car accidents. Each accident she had her seatbelt on, and she was very fortunate not to have serious injuries like those in the videos.
“I have never been involved in a traffic accident, but I always wear my safety belt,” said Amber Haines, senior. “The presentation made me sad and it made me realize how fast a fatal accident could be. It made me sick to my stomach.”
The message that the two seniors want to get out to young and upcoming drivers is to always wear your seat belt, stay off your phone, and stay alert.
By: Angel Harrison
Knox County High School was visited by Sergeant Brent J. Bernhardt from the Missouri State Highway Patrol on November 29th. He presented to students about safe driving, how to act when being pulled over by an officer, and the impact of what drinking and driving has on others. Sergeant Bernhardt also showed the student body a video of real-life car accidents in Missouri and of students and adults telling their stories of the accidents they were involved in. The interviews of the volunteers who gave their stories were very emotional and hard to watch. Some of the accidents resulted in death of loved ones or involved very serious injuries.
Knox County senior, Hope Miller, said that she has been in three different car accidents. Each accident she had her seatbelt on, and she was very fortunate not to have serious injuries like those in the videos.
“I have never been involved in a traffic accident, but I always wear my safety belt,” said Amber Haines, senior. “The presentation made me sad and it made me realize how fast a fatal accident could be. It made me sick to my stomach.”
The message that the two seniors want to get out to young and upcoming drivers is to always wear your seat belt, stay off your phone, and stay alert.
FFA Updates and Activities
By: Angel Harrison
November 10th our FFA Junior Advisor, Amber Morgret, is traveling to Kirksville High School to give a speech about advocating for agriculture. Going along with Amber to Kirksville is Makayla Griffith. She will be giving a speech about agriculture education. This is their first time ever giving a speech for FFA in front of judges. The speeches will start at 5:00 p.m.
The next day, on November 11th, there will be 25 schools attending the Area 3 Barnwarming at the NEMO Fairgrounds in Kirksville, Missouri. The event will start at 7:00 p.m. and be over at 11:00 p.m. The admission fee is $1.00 and a canned good item. The night will consist of various activities such as games, dancing, eating and lots of mingling. The boy and girl who win the most games will be crowned the 2016 King and Queen of the Area 3 Barnwarming. There will be 15 students from Knox County attending. About 200 area students usually attend the event each year.
By: Angel Harrison
November 10th our FFA Junior Advisor, Amber Morgret, is traveling to Kirksville High School to give a speech about advocating for agriculture. Going along with Amber to Kirksville is Makayla Griffith. She will be giving a speech about agriculture education. This is their first time ever giving a speech for FFA in front of judges. The speeches will start at 5:00 p.m.
The next day, on November 11th, there will be 25 schools attending the Area 3 Barnwarming at the NEMO Fairgrounds in Kirksville, Missouri. The event will start at 7:00 p.m. and be over at 11:00 p.m. The admission fee is $1.00 and a canned good item. The night will consist of various activities such as games, dancing, eating and lots of mingling. The boy and girl who win the most games will be crowned the 2016 King and Queen of the Area 3 Barnwarming. There will be 15 students from Knox County attending. About 200 area students usually attend the event each year.
FFA Hosts a Successful Blood Drive
By: Angel Harrison
The Knox County FFA hosted their 4th annual memorial blood drive for Logan Allen on November 14th, 2016. The event started at 11:30 a.m. and lasted until 6:00 pm. It was held at the Knox County Community Center located north of the courthouse in Edina.
A week before the blood drive, FFA members called people in the community to schedule appointments. They wanted to get as many people involved as they could. The members also baked cookies for those who gave blood. The Leadership and Healthy Lifestyle committees were in charge of the event. They successfully collected 77 units of blood, including ten of Knox County’s students who were able to donate this year.
By: Angel Harrison
The Knox County FFA hosted their 4th annual memorial blood drive for Logan Allen on November 14th, 2016. The event started at 11:30 a.m. and lasted until 6:00 pm. It was held at the Knox County Community Center located north of the courthouse in Edina.
A week before the blood drive, FFA members called people in the community to schedule appointments. They wanted to get as many people involved as they could. The members also baked cookies for those who gave blood. The Leadership and Healthy Lifestyle committees were in charge of the event. They successfully collected 77 units of blood, including ten of Knox County’s students who were able to donate this year.
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Change Drive
By: Cage Kirmse Knox County and Culver-Stockton are working together to sponsor a change drive to buy school supplies for the children in Belize and Guatemala. All students in grades Kindergarten through 8th grade are encouraged to participate and bring in their change. Culver-Stockton students will be traveling to Belize and Guatemala in December to deliver the supplies to the kids. They do this fundraiser every few years to help the kids in need. The class that brings in the most change will receive a pizza party that is sponsored by Student Council. This incentive will help insure that the kids are working extra hard to bring in change so they not only win a party, but also help toward this good cause. The kids can also bring in school supplies, and it will count toward their total donation. The contest will last from Oct. 31 through Nov. 4. |
Teacher Professional Development Days
By: Emily Nichols Professional Development day isn't just a day for the students to have off of school. The teachers still have to come to school to work to participate in professional development. “The main purpose for a professional development day is to promote growth, if you don't have growth then you can't make changes when it's needed,” said Mr. Turgeon, the superintendent at Knox County. Professional Development Days are a very important learning opportunities where teachers become more attuned to working with and teaching with technology. Over the years, we have constantly been becoming more involved with technology. If the teachers don't know how to use the technology, then the students wouldn't be able to learn. On November 4, teachers took part in a Professional Development Day. Mr. Turgeon shared a little sneak peek of the agenda for the day. “On Friday we watched a video on an upcoming movie that hasn't reached theaters. It is about how a school got rid of normal school days. At this school the kids had certain projects to accomplish things, such as directing a play which could help them retain knowledge on how to do math, science, and social studies,” said Mr. Turgeon. After the video, the staff had a discussion on whether they think it is right to make the students learn certain things, or if they should have their own freedom to learn differently. |
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Campus Bowl Begins with a Bright Start
By: Michael Carlson On Monday, December 5, the Knox County High School Campus Bowl team met in coach Ms. McNabb’s room to participate in their first competition of the year. This took place online, resulting with 240 questions. The Eagles were led by captains, Zoe Gudehus and Shelton Boatman, as they answered the most questions. Although, this was just a mere test for this group of scholars as the real season starts in February of 2017 going through April. The Eagles have had a lot of success with Campus Bowl, as last year the varsity team took home 2nd place in Districts. However, that was when Knox was still in the Tri-Rivers Conference with Timmy Jones at the helm. It's important to note that this 2017 team will be put up against schools that they've never faced before. Therefore, this team to come has a lot to live up to, but there's no doubt that they bring a lot of talent with them. Mock Election
By: Morgan Miller Every four years when the Presidential Election rolls around, the elementary school at Knox County holds a mock election to get the kids involved. Mrs. Wendy Kerby, one of the fifth grade teachers, contacted the building administrators of the middle and high school to get permission to involve their kids in the mock election this year. She received permission from Mr. Brian Brown, so she created an email that was sent to all of the high school students to give them a chance to participate. It gave them the choice between the two candidates running for president, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, and also the two running for governor, Eric Gretiens and Chris Koster. Kerby also included a list of issues in this country today that each student could mark if they felt that issue was important to them. Kerby stated that the results for the high school showed that most students are Republican. With this being said, Kerby also stated that the Republican candidates won by a vast majority in the high school. Some issues frequently marked were poverty, human rights, and gun control. The elementary students met in the morning meeting room and were able to use the actual voting booths from the courthouse. Mrs. Kerby created ballots for the third through fifth grade that were similar to the ones adults use. For the younger kids, she created ballots that had pictures of the candidates because she knew not all of them would be able to read the names. The ballots consisted of the choice of the presidential candidates and also the governor candidates. Within the elementary, Trump won over Clinton with his 134 votes, while Hillary had 67. The governor’s votes were much closer, with Greitens having 96 and Koster having 93. In preparing for the mock election, teachers were given some websites to help explain the issues to their students. Kerby gave the example that with her fifth grade class, she explained the issues of each party and their views. She had the students look away from the candidate and instead look at the platform. In doing this, Kerby stated a lot of her students changed their votes because they saw what each candidate stood for. Because the students were talking about this at school, teachers encouraged them to go home and talk to their parents about it. Kerby said that she hopes the mock election will show each student their civic responsibility to vote. |
The 2016 Presidential Election
EDITORIAL by: Taylor Goodwin Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton are the most hated presidential candidates in polling history since 1984. In my opinion neither one of them should be President of the United States. However, I feel that Donald Trump is the lesser of two evils. One of the reasons that I lean more toward Trump is because I consider myself to be a Republican. Even though Trump isn’t my most favorite person, at least he won’t drive our country even further into the ground than it already is. I am totally and completely against Hilary Clinton for President for many reasons. My main reason is that she cannot be trusted. Why would we want someone who illegally used her personal email to send out classified information and then deleted the evidence to become our nation’s president? I also disagree with most of what Clinton stands for. The main thing I disagree with is that she thinks taking guns out of our personal possession will end all of the gun violence. Guns don’t kill people, people kill people. A gun cannot fire without someone pulling the trigger. Taking our guns away won’t solve any of our problems because if someone really wants a gun they will find a way to get one. Our guns are also a defense mechanism against people who want to do harm to us. Donald Trump will be the start to the long process to pull our country out of the rut that it’s in. He is not a politician and it seems that he wants to bring this country together. Hilary has been working in the government for the past 30 years, if she wanted to change something so badly, she could have already done it. Trump has said some inappropriate things, but I’ve also seen many videos of interviews of him in the past where he talks about what is wrong with this country and how he wants to fix it. In my opinion, he is the lesser of the two evils. |
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It Only Takes One
By: Jacobi Miller The “IT ONLY TAKES ONE TEEN” Distracted Driving Community Campaign is a project that Knox County Student Council is participating in to educate teens, parents, and the community about the dangers that teens face while driving. The campaign starts in September and ends in March. Student Council has to complete pre (October/November) and post (February/March) seat belt surveys with at least one month in between checks. They will also be handing out adult/teen driving contracts and Distribute the Missouri Graduated Drivers License (GDL) law and Underage Drinking Fact Sheet. They will also be making a Public Service Announcement which will clearly communicate the importance of teens using seat belts whenever they drive or ride in cars, no matter who is driving. They did the first seatbelt check on Oct. 27 at 7:20 a.m. The results were that 86/100 (86%) students wore seat belts with one on her phone while driving, and 55/62 (89%) faculty/staff wearing their seat belts. |
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KCES Activity Night
By: Hayden Miller The theme for the Knox County Elementary School 2016 Activity Night was “Have a Ball!” Activity Night was held Thursday October, 27 after school from 3:30 to 5:30 for student in grades K-5. Approximately 105 students attended. Teachers heading up Activity Night were Title teachers Karen Hodge, Lisa Clark, and Sara Rayl. Activity Night included five rotations including reading activities, math activities, a sports rotation, an arts and crafts rotation and lastly, a snacks stadium read aloud station. The storytime/snack stadium was located in the basement, the relay activities were held in the gym and then the math and reading games were located in classrooms. Lisa Clark said that the Activity Night, in years past, didn’t have very many kids attend. At one point there wasn’t even enough students to make the night function. However, Clark says that the last couple of years' attendance has been around 100 students. Activity Night is a fun night that kids learn and both students and faculty enjoy. Jennifer Orton, technology speacialist, also presented to parents during Activity Night. Orton talked about digital footprints and what to think about when you are posting things online. |
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National Convention Trip
By: Karissa Hamlin Knox County FFA members had the chance to attend National Convention in Indianapolis, Ind from October 18 to 22. Twelve students were chosen to attend, which included: Jennah Strange, Skye Bugh, Lindsey Hubble, Becka Anderson, Sadie Snelling, Audrey Howe, Ian Kincaid, Sidney Miller, Chelsea Zahn, Amber Morgret, Nash Miller, and Matthew Hunolt. Becca Mallet, FFA advisor, went as the supervisor of these students. They departed Knox County on Tuesday, Oct. 18 at 10:30 a.m. to meet a charter bus in Macon which they shared with students from South Holt, Saint Joseph, and West Platt. When they arrived, they attended the opening ceremony. Then, over the next four days, they had the opportunity to take part in and explore the “Why Not Popcorn” store, the NCAA Hall of Fame, a rodeo, a concert with country singers, Cole Swindle and Chris Young, the Cheesecake Factory, the Indianapolis National Speedway, and the convention center to the FFA mall. They also participated in National Day of Community Service and were asked to help prepare a house to paint. They also attended the American Degree session where they were able to watch past Knox County FFA members, Alex Hamlin and Nat Harder, receive their American Degree. Gracie Hunziker and Bryce Cardwell also received their American Degree, but they were unable to attend the ceremony. In order to attend National Convention students must go through an acceptance process. The acceptance requirements included filling out an application that consisted of four essay questions, and then anonymous judges were asked to choose the best applications. |
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Greenhand Night
By: Karissa Hamlin On Monday, October 17, Greenhand Night was held for FFA members. During their first year of FFA new members are called a green hand. “Greenhand Night is a night that officers spend with green hands to build skills of leadership and team bonding,” said Tanner Ellison, Vice-President of Knox County’s FFA chapter. The officers use this night to inspire green hands to become committed, active FFA members by participating in contests, record books, and events. The green hands were asked to do activities and a taco bar was provided by the officers afterward. Some activities that green hands participated in included having to find all parts of the FFA emblem, which were placed throughout the elementary and then decide what office it represented and the meaning behind it. They also played volleyball against the officers in the elementary gym to help display team bonding. The officers won two of the three matches against the green hands. “They were able to interact with the officers and felt welcomed into the chapter,” said Ellison. Green hands being admitted into the FFA chapter this year include Keagan Hamlin, Brittany Harsell, Andrew Howe, Dakota Klataske, Trent Klocke, Jaiden Linebaugh, Jared Peavler, Emiley Schrage, Cadie Violette, Joe Patterson, Zack Schrage, and Sadie Snelling. |
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Unity Day 2017
By: Hayden Miller Unity Day took place on Wednesday, October 19. Unity Day is a time where people wear orange to unite and stand against bullying. Orange is the designated color for bullying. The Spirit Program directed by Amy Miller and Jessica Wolf are in charge of sponsoring it at Knox County schools. Miller says that the purpose of Unity Day is to show that people that are getting bullied are not alone. Students age Pre-K-12 participated by wearing orange. This year's theme is "Together Against Bullying for Kindness, Acceptance, and Inclusion." Senior, Noah Talton said, "We need to unite against bullying. Bullying is bad thing that affects kids emotionally and physically. Major cases of bullying can lead to severe depression which can lead to suicidal thoughts." High school counselor Stacy O’Haver says that Unity Day is a day where everyone can come together for one common goal. On this certain day it’s to unite against bullying. |
Sophomore Class Jewelry Delivery
By: Cage Kirmse
On Monday, October 17, the Sophomore class received their custom class jewelry created by Jostens. Students were given the option to purchase a class ring, class tag, class locket or class bracelet. Jostons offers a wide variety of customization options for students to design their jewelry. Students were surveyed and the results are below.
By: Cage Kirmse
On Monday, October 17, the Sophomore class received their custom class jewelry created by Jostens. Students were given the option to purchase a class ring, class tag, class locket or class bracelet. Jostons offers a wide variety of customization options for students to design their jewelry. Students were surveyed and the results are below.
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FCA Comes to Knox County
By: Taylor Goodwin
On Wednesday, Oct. 5, the newly founded, FCA group held its first meeting. About 15 students, grades 6-12 attended the meeting.
Zoe Gudehus, one of the members, said, “Coach Summers invited me (to join FCA) and I was really eager to be a part of it. I thought it was a good way to combine my faith with my life at school and share it with my classmates and peers,” when asked how she became apart of FCA.
The main goal of FCA is for athletes to come together and support each other through fellowship. The four founding members were Zoe Gudehus, Noah Talton, Lane Couch and Hayden Miller, led by Coach Zach Summers and Coach Jeff Ackman. Anyone in grades 6-12, Christian or not, are welcome to join. The meetings will begin with a short game followed by worship.
Don McClanen, Dr. Louis R. Evans, Dr. Roe Johnston and Branch Rickey were the founders of FCA, which stands for Fellowship of Christian Athletes. FCA was first incorporated in 1954, and this year is their 60th anniversary. FCA is a great organization for Christian athletes to be able to express their faith within sports.
By: Taylor Goodwin
On Wednesday, Oct. 5, the newly founded, FCA group held its first meeting. About 15 students, grades 6-12 attended the meeting.
Zoe Gudehus, one of the members, said, “Coach Summers invited me (to join FCA) and I was really eager to be a part of it. I thought it was a good way to combine my faith with my life at school and share it with my classmates and peers,” when asked how she became apart of FCA.
The main goal of FCA is for athletes to come together and support each other through fellowship. The four founding members were Zoe Gudehus, Noah Talton, Lane Couch and Hayden Miller, led by Coach Zach Summers and Coach Jeff Ackman. Anyone in grades 6-12, Christian or not, are welcome to join. The meetings will begin with a short game followed by worship.
Don McClanen, Dr. Louis R. Evans, Dr. Roe Johnston and Branch Rickey were the founders of FCA, which stands for Fellowship of Christian Athletes. FCA was first incorporated in 1954, and this year is their 60th anniversary. FCA is a great organization for Christian athletes to be able to express their faith within sports.
University of Missouri Bradford Field Day
By: Karissa Hamlin
Knox County FFA members had the opportunity to visit Bradford Research Farm in Columbia on Sept. 20 for Bradford Research Day held by the University of Missouri. They departed from Knox County schools at 6:30 a.m. 11 freshmen, six sophomores, two juniors, and one senior FFA member attended. Ms. Mallet was the chaperone of this event. The purpose of this trip was to learn about different types of agriculture. The members were able to learn about insects, plants and vegetables, and animal science. Each student was also able to feel inside a fistulated cow. This gives students the chance to feel the feed being digested through a hole in the cow's rumen. After this educational day, the FFA members then went through a corn maze and arrived back in Knox County at about 4:30 p.m.
By: Karissa Hamlin
Knox County FFA members had the opportunity to visit Bradford Research Farm in Columbia on Sept. 20 for Bradford Research Day held by the University of Missouri. They departed from Knox County schools at 6:30 a.m. 11 freshmen, six sophomores, two juniors, and one senior FFA member attended. Ms. Mallet was the chaperone of this event. The purpose of this trip was to learn about different types of agriculture. The members were able to learn about insects, plants and vegetables, and animal science. Each student was also able to feel inside a fistulated cow. This gives students the chance to feel the feed being digested through a hole in the cow's rumen. After this educational day, the FFA members then went through a corn maze and arrived back in Knox County at about 4:30 p.m.
Video Game Design Class Coming Soon
By: Angel Harrison
Knox County High School is getting a new elective class. Starting 2nd semester sixth hour ceramics class will be changing to a video game design class called Game Maker Studio Pro. This class will be taught by Mrs. Lucas, the high school art teacher. Lucas came across this opportunity when there was a sale on the website called Humble Bundle. The website takes the money from the products they sell and donate it to charity. Knox County was able to purchase every bundle of $1,800 worth of software for only $15.
Lucas will be teaching the students to design their own video game from the ground up. The class will first watch tutorials on how to make their own design elements with the graphic software. Lucas hopes this program will help her students and may possibly lead a student to make a career out of it one day. Lucas will take this class to the computer lab every day after winter break to work on the games and their designs. Depending how the game making program works out during this inaugural period will determine if the class will be offered next year.
By: Angel Harrison
Knox County High School is getting a new elective class. Starting 2nd semester sixth hour ceramics class will be changing to a video game design class called Game Maker Studio Pro. This class will be taught by Mrs. Lucas, the high school art teacher. Lucas came across this opportunity when there was a sale on the website called Humble Bundle. The website takes the money from the products they sell and donate it to charity. Knox County was able to purchase every bundle of $1,800 worth of software for only $15.
Lucas will be teaching the students to design their own video game from the ground up. The class will first watch tutorials on how to make their own design elements with the graphic software. Lucas hopes this program will help her students and may possibly lead a student to make a career out of it one day. Lucas will take this class to the computer lab every day after winter break to work on the games and their designs. Depending how the game making program works out during this inaugural period will determine if the class will be offered next year.
Flu Shot Clinic
By: Morgan Miller
The Knox County School District is holding a flu shot clinic again this year. As they have in previous years, forms were sent out for parent permission and any student who is signed up can participate. This year, forms were sent out Thursday, Sept. 22 and were due back on Monday, Sept 26. The clinic will be held on Thursday, Oct. 6. It will begin at 7:30 a.m. in the elementary seminar area starting with any staff members that want to get their shots. The elementary students will go after the staff. Once they have finished, the clinic will be moved to the high school cafeteria and the middle and high school students will be able to get their shots. The cost is $5.
When asked how long Knox County has held this shot clinic, school nurse Kathy Palmer said around 18 years. The only difference this year’s clinic has from other years is that this year the CDC didn’t make the flu mist, they only made the flu shot. Palmer stated that the CDC, the people who make the vaccine every year, added a fourth strain to the vaccine this year. By doing this, the flu mist was not as effective as the shot. Therefore, the mist will not be an option this year.
There aren’t many students that come into the nurse’s office each year after getting the flu vaccine complaining of side effects. Palmer says the most common side effect is muscle soreness where the vaccine was administered.
Many people think that if they get the flu shot or mist, they won’t get the flu at all. Palmer says this is false. If you get the vaccine, you can still get the flu, it just won’t be as severe. She gave an example of this by saying if you don’t get the vaccine and you get the flu, you could have the symptoms of the flu for up to ten days and they can be very severe. The flu symptoms are a high fever, severe body aches and headaches. If you were to get the vaccine and still get the flu, your symptoms could only last between three to five days and won’t be as severe.
Palmer recommends getting the flu shot every year unless you are allergic to eggs or are ill. The flu shot is made using eggs. This means the vaccine could have small amounts of egg proteins in them. They do make two vaccines that don’t have these proteins in them, for those whom it may affect. These two vaccines are only approved for people eighteen years and older, though.
By: Morgan Miller
The Knox County School District is holding a flu shot clinic again this year. As they have in previous years, forms were sent out for parent permission and any student who is signed up can participate. This year, forms were sent out Thursday, Sept. 22 and were due back on Monday, Sept 26. The clinic will be held on Thursday, Oct. 6. It will begin at 7:30 a.m. in the elementary seminar area starting with any staff members that want to get their shots. The elementary students will go after the staff. Once they have finished, the clinic will be moved to the high school cafeteria and the middle and high school students will be able to get their shots. The cost is $5.
When asked how long Knox County has held this shot clinic, school nurse Kathy Palmer said around 18 years. The only difference this year’s clinic has from other years is that this year the CDC didn’t make the flu mist, they only made the flu shot. Palmer stated that the CDC, the people who make the vaccine every year, added a fourth strain to the vaccine this year. By doing this, the flu mist was not as effective as the shot. Therefore, the mist will not be an option this year.
There aren’t many students that come into the nurse’s office each year after getting the flu vaccine complaining of side effects. Palmer says the most common side effect is muscle soreness where the vaccine was administered.
Many people think that if they get the flu shot or mist, they won’t get the flu at all. Palmer says this is false. If you get the vaccine, you can still get the flu, it just won’t be as severe. She gave an example of this by saying if you don’t get the vaccine and you get the flu, you could have the symptoms of the flu for up to ten days and they can be very severe. The flu symptoms are a high fever, severe body aches and headaches. If you were to get the vaccine and still get the flu, your symptoms could only last between three to five days and won’t be as severe.
Palmer recommends getting the flu shot every year unless you are allergic to eggs or are ill. The flu shot is made using eggs. This means the vaccine could have small amounts of egg proteins in them. They do make two vaccines that don’t have these proteins in them, for those whom it may affect. These two vaccines are only approved for people eighteen years and older, though.
The Biggest Loser
By: Taylor Goodwin
Knox County School staff have a competition starting up this semester which helps promote healthy lifestyles. The Biggest Loser competition is hosted by the nursing office each semester.
Kathy Palmer, the coordinator of the challenge and the school nurse stated, “It’s a take off of the TV show The Biggest Loser.” There is a $10.00 entry fee and each Friday morning contestants go to the nursing office to weigh-in. If a contestant misses a weigh in, they have to pay $1.00. If they gain weight they have to bring a nonperishable food item that is donated to the food bank around Thanksgiving. Instead of going by pounds lost from the first weigh in the winner is chosen by percentage of weight lost. The winner of The Biggest Loser Challenge either gets everyone's entry fees or a paid day off. The winner also gets the dollars, from when someone didn’t weigh in, that were collected for that month. The person who comes in second place gets the opposite of what the winner didn’t choose.
“Having this competition motivates me to say “Okay, I’m going to find time tonight to exercise.” This quote is from the superintendent of Knox County, Andy Turgeon, who was the winner of one of the semesters of The Biggest Loser challenge. Turgeon also stated, “I’ve actually always participated every year, it just kind of gives me that extra motivation to create time to stay healthy.”
Palmer also stated, “We try to do it a whole semester so we started last Friday, which was Sept. 9, and the last weigh in is Friday, Dec. 16.” As of Sept. 13 there were eleven people participating.
Turgeon stated, “I think it’s a great program, it’d be nice if we had more people participate. I just think it’s a good way to keep everybody in shape and healthy. I think it improves the atmosphere here at school so I think it’s a great program for us.”
By: Taylor Goodwin
Knox County School staff have a competition starting up this semester which helps promote healthy lifestyles. The Biggest Loser competition is hosted by the nursing office each semester.
Kathy Palmer, the coordinator of the challenge and the school nurse stated, “It’s a take off of the TV show The Biggest Loser.” There is a $10.00 entry fee and each Friday morning contestants go to the nursing office to weigh-in. If a contestant misses a weigh in, they have to pay $1.00. If they gain weight they have to bring a nonperishable food item that is donated to the food bank around Thanksgiving. Instead of going by pounds lost from the first weigh in the winner is chosen by percentage of weight lost. The winner of The Biggest Loser Challenge either gets everyone's entry fees or a paid day off. The winner also gets the dollars, from when someone didn’t weigh in, that were collected for that month. The person who comes in second place gets the opposite of what the winner didn’t choose.
“Having this competition motivates me to say “Okay, I’m going to find time tonight to exercise.” This quote is from the superintendent of Knox County, Andy Turgeon, who was the winner of one of the semesters of The Biggest Loser challenge. Turgeon also stated, “I’ve actually always participated every year, it just kind of gives me that extra motivation to create time to stay healthy.”
Palmer also stated, “We try to do it a whole semester so we started last Friday, which was Sept. 9, and the last weigh in is Friday, Dec. 16.” As of Sept. 13 there were eleven people participating.
Turgeon stated, “I think it’s a great program, it’d be nice if we had more people participate. I just think it’s a good way to keep everybody in shape and healthy. I think it improves the atmosphere here at school so I think it’s a great program for us.”
Flu Season Quickly Approaching
By: Morgan Miller
As the flu season approaches, Knox County School Nurse, Kathy Palmer, says she hasn’t had any kids in her office with symptoms of the flu yet this year. She said she has mainly seen kids with allergy symptoms so far. Palmer mentions she usually sees two types of the flu, the gastric type flu and the influenza flu.
Some symptoms of the gastric type flu are vomiting and diarrhea and with the Influenza flu the usual symptoms are fever, cough, headaches and body aches. Typical symptoms to watch out for are severe headaches and muscle aches that come on very fast, fever, chills, fatigue, and also a cough.
Palmer usually sees kids coming in her office in late October and all through winter with symptoms of the flu. She says it lasts all through winter and is the heaviest in February and March.
She recommends getting a flu shot to everyone but says those who have a chronic illness, for example diabetes or asthma, need to make sure and get one. Palmer stated, “If everybody got the flu shot, the flu cases wouldn’t be as bad.” She explains that the shot reduces the symptoms of the flu. For example, the flu shot will keep you from getting a really high fever, but may even prevent you from getting the flu altogether. She also says to frequently wash your hands and don’t share drinks. She also added when asked about preventative measures, “For teenagers, not a lot of kissing your boyfriends or girlfriends, because that’s just another easy way to spread germs.”
According to Palmer, the first thing to do when you start feeling symptoms of the flu is to go home. Whether you are at school, work, or elsewhere, you should go home so you don’t spread it. After you are home and away from other people you need to get ahold of the doctor. The doctor is able to give you a shot within the first two days of symptoms that will prevent you from getting as sick or give you Tamiflu.
By: Morgan Miller
As the flu season approaches, Knox County School Nurse, Kathy Palmer, says she hasn’t had any kids in her office with symptoms of the flu yet this year. She said she has mainly seen kids with allergy symptoms so far. Palmer mentions she usually sees two types of the flu, the gastric type flu and the influenza flu.
Some symptoms of the gastric type flu are vomiting and diarrhea and with the Influenza flu the usual symptoms are fever, cough, headaches and body aches. Typical symptoms to watch out for are severe headaches and muscle aches that come on very fast, fever, chills, fatigue, and also a cough.
Palmer usually sees kids coming in her office in late October and all through winter with symptoms of the flu. She says it lasts all through winter and is the heaviest in February and March.
She recommends getting a flu shot to everyone but says those who have a chronic illness, for example diabetes or asthma, need to make sure and get one. Palmer stated, “If everybody got the flu shot, the flu cases wouldn’t be as bad.” She explains that the shot reduces the symptoms of the flu. For example, the flu shot will keep you from getting a really high fever, but may even prevent you from getting the flu altogether. She also says to frequently wash your hands and don’t share drinks. She also added when asked about preventative measures, “For teenagers, not a lot of kissing your boyfriends or girlfriends, because that’s just another easy way to spread germs.”
According to Palmer, the first thing to do when you start feeling symptoms of the flu is to go home. Whether you are at school, work, or elsewhere, you should go home so you don’t spread it. After you are home and away from other people you need to get ahold of the doctor. The doctor is able to give you a shot within the first two days of symptoms that will prevent you from getting as sick or give you Tamiflu.
Fall Fitness Program
By: Hayden Miller
The Fall Fitness Program instructed by Keith Gudehus will begin September 12. It will run from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in the gym. Students from 8th-12th grade are allowed to attend due to MSHSAA only allowing for that age group to participate. Gudehus started this program for student athletes who are in the off-season and for students who don't participate in sports so they can get a workout in as well. The training will consist of flexibility workouts, plyometrics, strength training and conditioning.
Gudehus says that he made this program so that athletes are at lower risk of injuries. It is a system from Cincinnati Sports and Medicine to help prevent knee injuries. The program will last for six weeks and will take place on Monday's, Wednesday's and Friday's, however the schedule could change depending on what is going on during the week. Gudehus says he's looking forward to the program starting up again. He said he invites teachers as well.
By: Hayden Miller
The Fall Fitness Program instructed by Keith Gudehus will begin September 12. It will run from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in the gym. Students from 8th-12th grade are allowed to attend due to MSHSAA only allowing for that age group to participate. Gudehus started this program for student athletes who are in the off-season and for students who don't participate in sports so they can get a workout in as well. The training will consist of flexibility workouts, plyometrics, strength training and conditioning.
Gudehus says that he made this program so that athletes are at lower risk of injuries. It is a system from Cincinnati Sports and Medicine to help prevent knee injuries. The program will last for six weeks and will take place on Monday's, Wednesday's and Friday's, however the schedule could change depending on what is going on during the week. Gudehus says he's looking forward to the program starting up again. He said he invites teachers as well.
Class Officers
By: Michael Carlson
On Wednesday, Sept. 7, class meetings were held at 8:20 a.m. to vote for class officers as well as Homecoming candidates. The seniors met in the cafeteria, juniors in the art room, sophomores in Mr. Kerr’s room, and the freshmen in Mrs. Bass’s room.
The class sponsors for the senior class include Mrs. O’Haver and Mr. Gudehus. For the junior class, the sponsors are Mrs. Greenley, Mrs. Lucas, and Mr. Green. Mr. Kerr and Ms. McNabb sponsor the sophomore class, while Mrs. Bass and Ms. Mallet sponsor the freshmen.
When the seniors met, they came to a decision electing Zoe Gudehus as class President with Shelton Boatman as the Vice-President. Taylor Goodwin was then elected as secretary with Madison McCabe taking the role as Treasurer.
The junior class selected Michael Carlson as their class President with Zach English taking Vice-President. Emily Nichols was selected as Secretary and Jessica Anderson was picked for Treasurer.
The sophomore class chose Natalie Clark be their class President with assisting Katie Hamlin as Vice- President. Chelsea Zahn will serve as the secretary and Shelby York was voted for Treasurer.
Finally, the freshmen class selected their officers to represent them in their start to high school. John England was named their class President and Cadie Violette is their Vice-President. Arysta Snyder was then chosen for Secretary and Zach Winter was elected as Treasurer.
By: Michael Carlson
On Wednesday, Sept. 7, class meetings were held at 8:20 a.m. to vote for class officers as well as Homecoming candidates. The seniors met in the cafeteria, juniors in the art room, sophomores in Mr. Kerr’s room, and the freshmen in Mrs. Bass’s room.
The class sponsors for the senior class include Mrs. O’Haver and Mr. Gudehus. For the junior class, the sponsors are Mrs. Greenley, Mrs. Lucas, and Mr. Green. Mr. Kerr and Ms. McNabb sponsor the sophomore class, while Mrs. Bass and Ms. Mallet sponsor the freshmen.
When the seniors met, they came to a decision electing Zoe Gudehus as class President with Shelton Boatman as the Vice-President. Taylor Goodwin was then elected as secretary with Madison McCabe taking the role as Treasurer.
The junior class selected Michael Carlson as their class President with Zach English taking Vice-President. Emily Nichols was selected as Secretary and Jessica Anderson was picked for Treasurer.
The sophomore class chose Natalie Clark be their class President with assisting Katie Hamlin as Vice- President. Chelsea Zahn will serve as the secretary and Shelby York was voted for Treasurer.
Finally, the freshmen class selected their officers to represent them in their start to high school. John England was named their class President and Cadie Violette is their Vice-President. Arysta Snyder was then chosen for Secretary and Zach Winter was elected as Treasurer.
Updates at Knox County Schools
By: Taylor Goodwin
Technology is evolving around us a little more everyday. Therefore, Knox County R-1 High School is working more and more to make sure that the students are up-to-date with the latest technology. Some of the updates that have been made to the school are new iPad Air 2's, the rearranging of the high school computer lab with new furniture, advancements to our journalism program and so much more.
When talking to school administration about their thoughts on updates to the school, Mr. Brown, high school principal, stated, “Technology-wise we knew this would be kind of a challenging beginning of the year, because we transitioned at the end of the year to a new school information system. When you think about all the operations that happen at school, the information system is critical to those things. We’ve put a team of people in place, we’ve got some core teachers that are responsible for learning the teacher side of things. In addition to the new information system I think the reception to new iPads has been pretty positive.”
Mrs. Jones, elementary principal, said, “As far as the updates around the building, we have completely renovated the morning meeting room with collaboration stations; there are five collaboration stations, with a green room off of the corner. Teachers can take their entire classroom of students there, they can work in small groups on any kind of a project whether it involves technology or not. Then if they are using the green screen the teacher can still be there and supervise the whole class while small groups use the green screen in the corner. There are also collaboration stations outside in the hallway for students to go out and work. Sometimes they go out and work using their iPads and sometimes they go out in small groups of two or three and work.”
Teachers have also had to adapt to the new technology and updates. Teachers are constantly evolving their lesson plans and incorporating new apps and lessons to their curriculum. The Multimedia Journalism class is in its second year and saw some exciting updates this summer. The old ITV room was revamped to add broadcast journalism to the class, as well as offer a location for other classes to collaborate and use the green screen for projects.
As far as whether or not these updates will continue, Alicia Myers stated, “I think there’s more to come, I think every year there will be something different.”
By: Taylor Goodwin
Technology is evolving around us a little more everyday. Therefore, Knox County R-1 High School is working more and more to make sure that the students are up-to-date with the latest technology. Some of the updates that have been made to the school are new iPad Air 2's, the rearranging of the high school computer lab with new furniture, advancements to our journalism program and so much more.
When talking to school administration about their thoughts on updates to the school, Mr. Brown, high school principal, stated, “Technology-wise we knew this would be kind of a challenging beginning of the year, because we transitioned at the end of the year to a new school information system. When you think about all the operations that happen at school, the information system is critical to those things. We’ve put a team of people in place, we’ve got some core teachers that are responsible for learning the teacher side of things. In addition to the new information system I think the reception to new iPads has been pretty positive.”
Mrs. Jones, elementary principal, said, “As far as the updates around the building, we have completely renovated the morning meeting room with collaboration stations; there are five collaboration stations, with a green room off of the corner. Teachers can take their entire classroom of students there, they can work in small groups on any kind of a project whether it involves technology or not. Then if they are using the green screen the teacher can still be there and supervise the whole class while small groups use the green screen in the corner. There are also collaboration stations outside in the hallway for students to go out and work. Sometimes they go out and work using their iPads and sometimes they go out in small groups of two or three and work.”
Teachers have also had to adapt to the new technology and updates. Teachers are constantly evolving their lesson plans and incorporating new apps and lessons to their curriculum. The Multimedia Journalism class is in its second year and saw some exciting updates this summer. The old ITV room was revamped to add broadcast journalism to the class, as well as offer a location for other classes to collaborate and use the green screen for projects.
As far as whether or not these updates will continue, Alicia Myers stated, “I think there’s more to come, I think every year there will be something different.”
Elementary Box Top Competition
By: Michael Carlson
To kick off the Knox County 2016-2017 school year, the elementary hosts its annual Box Top competition. Every Kindergarten through 5th grade class is competing to see who can collect the most Box Tops by Sept. 30. Mrs. Jones, the elementary principal, explained that this event is held every school year to raise money for PTO, which in return pays for playground equipment, as well as tables and other utilities for the school.
This year's Box Top competition’s theme is “Box Tops are Popping Up Everywhere” as the class who collects the most Box Tops wins a popcorn party. The number of Box Tops collected by each class is updated daily and posted on the wall across from the elementary gymnasium. So far, Mrs. Vannoy’s class holds a strong lead, but there is still much time to come before the race is over. This competition is a great event, because the elementary is able to contribute to their school in a positive way and be rewarded in doing so.
By: Michael Carlson
To kick off the Knox County 2016-2017 school year, the elementary hosts its annual Box Top competition. Every Kindergarten through 5th grade class is competing to see who can collect the most Box Tops by Sept. 30. Mrs. Jones, the elementary principal, explained that this event is held every school year to raise money for PTO, which in return pays for playground equipment, as well as tables and other utilities for the school.
This year's Box Top competition’s theme is “Box Tops are Popping Up Everywhere” as the class who collects the most Box Tops wins a popcorn party. The number of Box Tops collected by each class is updated daily and posted on the wall across from the elementary gymnasium. So far, Mrs. Vannoy’s class holds a strong lead, but there is still much time to come before the race is over. This competition is a great event, because the elementary is able to contribute to their school in a positive way and be rewarded in doing so.
Meet Mrs. Martin
By: Jacobi Miller
Mrs. Hannah Martin is the new third grade teacher at Knox County Elementary School. Martin grew up in Springfield, MO, where she graduated from Glendale High School. She then attended Drury University in Springfield, MO. She graduated with an undergraduate degree in Biology. Her biggest achievement was receiving her master's degree.
Martin has one little sister, and was recently married to her husband, Kendall. Martin likes to read and bake in her spare time. She also loves the springtime and the outdoors.
Martin says she is excited to teach science to her third-grade class, and also is excited because this is not only her first year at Knox County, but it also her first year as a teacher.
Meet Ms. Mallett
By: Karissa Hamlin
Ms. Rebecca Mallett is the new agricultural education teacher at Knox County High School. Mallett is a former student of Knox County and graduated in 2010. She then continued her education at Northwest University where she later graduated in Dec. 2014. Mallett then taught at Novinger for two years prior to coming to Knox. This year will be her third year as a teacher.
“I just knew when the job opened that there was really no question, I wanted to come back,” said Mallett. She said that the students were what brought her back to her hometown. Mallett subbed for the former ag teacher when she was on maternity leave so Mallet got to know the students then.
“I’m very excited to come back to this community because I know they are very supportive of ag and our FFA program,” Mallett said, “I’m also excited to come back because of the technology and being able to use that in the classroom.”
Mrs. Erwin, who was Mallett’s ag advisor, inspired Mallet to become a teacher. Erwin always served as a role model to Mallett and was more than just a teacher to her. When she graduated, Mrs. Erwin told her that she should be an ag teacher because Mallett would be good at it. After that, Mallett never looked back on becoming a teacher.
Mallett’s biggest and proudest achievement of her teaching career was in her first year of teaching when she took a livestock team to state where three of the four team members had never judged livestock before. This was their big goal, and Mallett was ecstatic when they reached their goal.
In Mallett’s free time, she enjoys to be on the farm and show cattle, read, shop and hang out with her friends. This summer, she took her cattle to the Missouri State Fair. Her heifers received second in their class, and her bull was reserved champion in his age division. She also has one dog, Macy, who is a English Setter. Her family uses Macy to bird hunt, and she is a good companion.
By: Karissa Hamlin
Ms. Rebecca Mallett is the new agricultural education teacher at Knox County High School. Mallett is a former student of Knox County and graduated in 2010. She then continued her education at Northwest University where she later graduated in Dec. 2014. Mallett then taught at Novinger for two years prior to coming to Knox. This year will be her third year as a teacher.
“I just knew when the job opened that there was really no question, I wanted to come back,” said Mallett. She said that the students were what brought her back to her hometown. Mallett subbed for the former ag teacher when she was on maternity leave so Mallet got to know the students then.
“I’m very excited to come back to this community because I know they are very supportive of ag and our FFA program,” Mallett said, “I’m also excited to come back because of the technology and being able to use that in the classroom.”
Mrs. Erwin, who was Mallett’s ag advisor, inspired Mallet to become a teacher. Erwin always served as a role model to Mallett and was more than just a teacher to her. When she graduated, Mrs. Erwin told her that she should be an ag teacher because Mallett would be good at it. After that, Mallett never looked back on becoming a teacher.
Mallett’s biggest and proudest achievement of her teaching career was in her first year of teaching when she took a livestock team to state where three of the four team members had never judged livestock before. This was their big goal, and Mallett was ecstatic when they reached their goal.
In Mallett’s free time, she enjoys to be on the farm and show cattle, read, shop and hang out with her friends. This summer, she took her cattle to the Missouri State Fair. Her heifers received second in their class, and her bull was reserved champion in his age division. She also has one dog, Macy, who is a English Setter. Her family uses Macy to bird hunt, and she is a good companion.
Meet Mrs. Bass
By: Cage Kirmse
Mrs. Bridget Bass is the new science teacher at Knox County High School. Bass graduated high school from Jacksonville, Ill. Bass then went on to get her undergraduate degree from Culver-Stockton University and proceeded to get her masters degree from William Woods University.
Bass is most excited about teaching at Knox County High School because she is able to teach a lot of different kids and teach a variety of science classes. Bass’ most memorable moment as a teacher is when her students that she teach come back and visit her because she likes to see what they are doing after high school. Bass’s biggest pet peeve from her students is laziness.
Bass has two nephews, Freddy and Ben, and a husband, Seth. Bass enjoys cooking, kayaking, volleyball, and watching both college and professional football and basketball in her free time. Bass said that her biggest achievement is yet to be determined because she doesn't have any kids, but she plans on having some which would be her biggest achievement.
By: Cage Kirmse
Mrs. Bridget Bass is the new science teacher at Knox County High School. Bass graduated high school from Jacksonville, Ill. Bass then went on to get her undergraduate degree from Culver-Stockton University and proceeded to get her masters degree from William Woods University.
Bass is most excited about teaching at Knox County High School because she is able to teach a lot of different kids and teach a variety of science classes. Bass’ most memorable moment as a teacher is when her students that she teach come back and visit her because she likes to see what they are doing after high school. Bass’s biggest pet peeve from her students is laziness.
Bass has two nephews, Freddy and Ben, and a husband, Seth. Bass enjoys cooking, kayaking, volleyball, and watching both college and professional football and basketball in her free time. Bass said that her biggest achievement is yet to be determined because she doesn't have any kids, but she plans on having some which would be her biggest achievement.
Meet Ms. Kliethermes
By: Angel Harrison
Ms. Bianca Kliethermes is one of the newest staff members at Knox County R1. She teaches her second grade class communications, math, social studies, and science.
Kliethermes graduated high school from Northwest High School in Cedar Hills, Mo. She then went to attend Truman State University for five years and obtained two degrees. Although this is Kliethermes’ first year teaching, she has gone to various schools, such as Brashear and Schuyler County, to job shadow during her college years.
Throughout high school and college, her teachers inspired her to become a teacher because they made her enjoy what she was learning. Kliethermes said of her job, "It's rewarding; seeing the kids learn and having fun with it and watching their minds grow from day one to the last day of school.” She also said she has always wanted to teach lower elementary students.
Kliethermes would describe herself as easygoing, passionate, and hardworking. Her hobbies are reading, traveling to the beach, hanging out with friends and family, water skiing, and shopping. Kliethermes’ favorite memory when she was in high school was the time she went on a mission trip to Belize with her church group. They toured Belize and helped build a church. She also enjoys the Harry Potter movies and the Lord of the Rings movies.
Kliethermes has three sisters and also has family that lives in Korea. She has visited Korea a couple of times and is close to her family there.
By: Angel Harrison
Ms. Bianca Kliethermes is one of the newest staff members at Knox County R1. She teaches her second grade class communications, math, social studies, and science.
Kliethermes graduated high school from Northwest High School in Cedar Hills, Mo. She then went to attend Truman State University for five years and obtained two degrees. Although this is Kliethermes’ first year teaching, she has gone to various schools, such as Brashear and Schuyler County, to job shadow during her college years.
Throughout high school and college, her teachers inspired her to become a teacher because they made her enjoy what she was learning. Kliethermes said of her job, "It's rewarding; seeing the kids learn and having fun with it and watching their minds grow from day one to the last day of school.” She also said she has always wanted to teach lower elementary students.
Kliethermes would describe herself as easygoing, passionate, and hardworking. Her hobbies are reading, traveling to the beach, hanging out with friends and family, water skiing, and shopping. Kliethermes’ favorite memory when she was in high school was the time she went on a mission trip to Belize with her church group. They toured Belize and helped build a church. She also enjoys the Harry Potter movies and the Lord of the Rings movies.
Kliethermes has three sisters and also has family that lives in Korea. She has visited Korea a couple of times and is close to her family there.
New Special Education Teacher
By: Morgan Miller
The new school year has brought many new things along with it. One of those things is new teachers. One new teacher is a new special education teacher, though she isn’t new to this school. Her name is Libby Moser.
Moser did her student teaching at Knox County and says, “I did some student teaching with Jessica Erwin in the high school and some with Marty Strange in the middle school.” When asked why she chose Knox County over any other school she said, “I think the technology is awesome and not something any other school in this area has and the community of Knox County is really great and that’s what I wanted for my career.”
Moser has wanted to be a teacher since she was very little and said, “It’s kind of the only career I was ever interested in and knew that’s what I was going to go to college for.” She also said she has never thought twice about being a teacher. Some people just know teaching is the career they want to follow from a very early age.
As mentioned before, Knox County has a lot of technology. Each student has an iPad to use and Moser agrees that the technology helps the students learn. She says, “Especially as a Special Ed teacher it’s nice to have other options to use with my students.” Some of her students don’t learn very well just using a book so she likes being able to engage all of the students she works with by using what interests them and makes them want to learn. She hasn’t found any particular apps that she likes using with the students but she does have an app with math and sight word flashcards for her students to use. Moser says she uses the iPads to substitute for paper versions of things, like the flashcards.
By: Morgan Miller
The new school year has brought many new things along with it. One of those things is new teachers. One new teacher is a new special education teacher, though she isn’t new to this school. Her name is Libby Moser.
Moser did her student teaching at Knox County and says, “I did some student teaching with Jessica Erwin in the high school and some with Marty Strange in the middle school.” When asked why she chose Knox County over any other school she said, “I think the technology is awesome and not something any other school in this area has and the community of Knox County is really great and that’s what I wanted for my career.”
Moser has wanted to be a teacher since she was very little and said, “It’s kind of the only career I was ever interested in and knew that’s what I was going to go to college for.” She also said she has never thought twice about being a teacher. Some people just know teaching is the career they want to follow from a very early age.
As mentioned before, Knox County has a lot of technology. Each student has an iPad to use and Moser agrees that the technology helps the students learn. She says, “Especially as a Special Ed teacher it’s nice to have other options to use with my students.” Some of her students don’t learn very well just using a book so she likes being able to engage all of the students she works with by using what interests them and makes them want to learn. She hasn’t found any particular apps that she likes using with the students but she does have an app with math and sight word flashcards for her students to use. Moser says she uses the iPads to substitute for paper versions of things, like the flashcards.
Meet Mrs. Lucas
By: Emily Nichols
Mrs. Antonia Lucas is the new art teacher at Knox County High School. Lucas graduated at Clinton High School, in Clinton, Mo. Lucas then continued her education at Truman University in Kirksville. She received her undergraduate and masters degree in education.
“I love to teach, and I love doing art. It seems like the nature of the evolution of things,” said Lucas, when asked why she became a teacher. Lucas said her favorite type of art is painting.
“My most memorable moment as a teacher would have to be when one of my students actually climbed into the ceiling,” said Lucas.
Lucas thinks that the kids at Knox County are hardworking individuals. Lucas also likes the technological advances about our school. Lucas’s biggest pet peeve is the lack of effort from students.
She was raised by her single mom, who was a hardworking nurse. Lucas spent a lot of time with her grandma, who played a huge part in Lucas' love of watching TV. Lucas is also married to a teacher who teaches elementary music at Macon.
By: Emily Nichols
Mrs. Antonia Lucas is the new art teacher at Knox County High School. Lucas graduated at Clinton High School, in Clinton, Mo. Lucas then continued her education at Truman University in Kirksville. She received her undergraduate and masters degree in education.
“I love to teach, and I love doing art. It seems like the nature of the evolution of things,” said Lucas, when asked why she became a teacher. Lucas said her favorite type of art is painting.
“My most memorable moment as a teacher would have to be when one of my students actually climbed into the ceiling,” said Lucas.
Lucas thinks that the kids at Knox County are hardworking individuals. Lucas also likes the technological advances about our school. Lucas’s biggest pet peeve is the lack of effort from students.
She was raised by her single mom, who was a hardworking nurse. Lucas spent a lot of time with her grandma, who played a huge part in Lucas' love of watching TV. Lucas is also married to a teacher who teaches elementary music at Macon.
New Softball Field Updates
By: Hayden Miller
The new Knox County High School softball field began construction last spring. The field will be constructed in a three phase process with hopes to be finished by the end of 2016-2017 school year.
“When the new field is completed, I think we will have one of the better facilities in Northeast Missouri,” principal Brian Brown said. He says the building of the new softball field is a three phase process, and that the first phase was getting the dirt work done and getting the dugouts in. The next phase is to get the lights put up and the sidewalks laid down. Finally, Brown said that the last phase would be getting a concession stand and locker rooms organized. Brown says every school should be entitled to have equal boy and girl facilities. There is no set date for when the field will be ready.
The idea of a new softball field has been brewing around the community for the last couple of years and some factors for making that happen were the location of the field, funding, and getting people to agree to it. To get the whole process started a committee needed to be formed. Once that happened, the process began. The committee is in charge of the direction of the field; they have the say to what gets done and what needs to be done. They are also in charge of raising money for the next item on the list. Brown says that the weather is also a contributing factor to the process of the field being built. They will be working around the weather as the process continues.
With the new field, the issue of having to share a softball and baseball field won’t be an issue anymore. Because the field is being built close to the elementary, there will be paved driveways for people to park, the elementary gym can be a spot for locker rooms and the old cafeteria allows for a concession stand. Brown thinks having the locker rooms for both home and guest teams will be a big improvement. Softball coach, Coach Barnhill says having the new field is a great step toward having better facilities for the school. She thinks it's beneficial for the softball girls to have their own field and for the baseball boys to have their own field.
Emily Nichols, a Knox County Junior will have the opportunity to play on the new field next year. Nichols said she is very grateful to have the opportunity to play on the field and looks forward to seeing the finished product.
By: Hayden Miller
The new Knox County High School softball field began construction last spring. The field will be constructed in a three phase process with hopes to be finished by the end of 2016-2017 school year.
“When the new field is completed, I think we will have one of the better facilities in Northeast Missouri,” principal Brian Brown said. He says the building of the new softball field is a three phase process, and that the first phase was getting the dirt work done and getting the dugouts in. The next phase is to get the lights put up and the sidewalks laid down. Finally, Brown said that the last phase would be getting a concession stand and locker rooms organized. Brown says every school should be entitled to have equal boy and girl facilities. There is no set date for when the field will be ready.
The idea of a new softball field has been brewing around the community for the last couple of years and some factors for making that happen were the location of the field, funding, and getting people to agree to it. To get the whole process started a committee needed to be formed. Once that happened, the process began. The committee is in charge of the direction of the field; they have the say to what gets done and what needs to be done. They are also in charge of raising money for the next item on the list. Brown says that the weather is also a contributing factor to the process of the field being built. They will be working around the weather as the process continues.
With the new field, the issue of having to share a softball and baseball field won’t be an issue anymore. Because the field is being built close to the elementary, there will be paved driveways for people to park, the elementary gym can be a spot for locker rooms and the old cafeteria allows for a concession stand. Brown thinks having the locker rooms for both home and guest teams will be a big improvement. Softball coach, Coach Barnhill says having the new field is a great step toward having better facilities for the school. She thinks it's beneficial for the softball girls to have their own field and for the baseball boys to have their own field.
Emily Nichols, a Knox County Junior will have the opportunity to play on the new field next year. Nichols said she is very grateful to have the opportunity to play on the field and looks forward to seeing the finished product.
