"Take a Hike"

On Thursday January 28th I went hiking with the Biology Club and Mr. Trueblood to Starved Rock State Park near Oglesby, IL. It has been a while since I have taken a two-hour bus ride with 40 freshmen and sophomores. The weather was cold – the wind burn on my face for 12 hours would have proven that. Along the way, Mr. Trueblood spotted bald eagles on several occasions. The students were able to see frozen waterfalls and water ways. They climbed up and down steep stairways leading into deep trenches and onto cliffs. They were great during the entire trip. I had a great time walking and chatting with different groups of students at different times. I have wanted to take this trip for the past two years and finally was able to do so. Several students struggled on a few of the slippery trails. In the end, I did not fall – not even once – there were many slips and close calls – but no actual falls. I can’t say the same for all of the students. We were even joined on the hike by Mark Oller, the bus driver. I think this is a trip I will make again next year.

Happenings at AHS this Month

It has been a few weeks since my last post – I apologize. I wanted to talk about what our students have been up to lately. The students at AHS have become involved in many charitable endeavors over the past few weeks. Two senior girls have spearheaded a Relay For Life movement at the HS. They have spread information, organized a Purple-Themed Week, and began the process of signing up teams for the Relay that will be held at the Athens High School Sports Complex in the summer. The Girls Basketball Team had a Breast Cancer Awareness Night. They sold t-shirts and encouraged everyone to wear pink. Also, they made a donation to the American Cancer Society. To top off the event, the girls wore pink AHS uniforms in the game on the Breast Cancer Awareness Night. Coach Heriford and the girls should be commended for their efforts. Our Leadership Committee used the recent Mega-Basketball Day to raise money for the Haitian Earthquake Relief Effort. The group raised $300.00 for the cause. “Thank you” to all who donated or participated in the Rainbow Shot on Saturday. Student Council took an opportunity to turn the mega-Basketball Night into a week-long event. They sponsored a Spirit Week. Activities included: Class-Colors day, Predator or Prey day, favorite Sports Team day, and Green and White day. They also had a Pep Assembly on Friday. Mega-Basketball Night was a success on all fronts except the score board. The evening featured four games. The JV girls started the evening at 3:00pm. The girls lost a close one to MWC. The JV boys played at 4:30 and narrowly escaped with a 3-point win over MWC. The varsity girls were next. Unfortunately, things did not go their way. The night ended with an exciting boys varsity match that came down to two free-throws with .8 seconds left. MWC was able to sink both and escape with a two-point victory. The Poms Squad performed two dances as well. The crowd was large and enjoyed a fine evening of basketball. Mr. Jamerson should be commended for yet another successful home athletic event. As you can see, our students continue to be active in academics, athletics and other great activities.

Top : Girls' Pink Uniforms

Middle: Fan Support for the effort

Bottom: Relay for Life "Purple Day" participants

The Long Lay-off is Over!

It has been a long time since I last posted a blog. Life is busy for everyone and my life is no exception. Since the NHS Induction Ceremony, I talked about in October...October, I know, I know...There have been many happenings at Athens High School:

Academically, all grades have received either the PLAN or a Practice ACT test. First Quarter Honor Roll was announced. Second Quarter will be coming soon. Final Exams went smoothly.

Athletically, The Volleyball team advanced to the Regional Finals before falling to AC Central. AHS hosted the Warrior Classic Boys Basketball Tournament at Thanksgiving. The Girls participated in the Riverton Holiday Tournament and the Boys had a nice run to the Consolation Finals in storied Waverly Holiday Tournament.

Musically, several students auditioned for and made All-district and All-state teams. The JH/HS Music Concert was a success as was the "cookie-walk."

Clubs and organizations, TMD worked with the youth at CIS. We have a group currently working for the Relay for Life foundation. Leadership Committee has worked for the food pantry.

We have celebrated the accomplishments of several Students of the Month and Spotlight Students. Both groups can be found on our website. The Leadership Committee has recognized two teachers as an Employee of the Month.

I know that I have missed many things...... I plan to try and set aside some time weekly and continue to blog about the great things that happen here every day.

Copied from October

National Honor Society Induction 2009-2010
Last night the Athens Chapter of the National Honor Society inducted 14 new members: 12 juniors and 2 seniors. The event was wonderful. The ceremony, minus a few candles that would not light, was fantastic. The best part was the socializing after the ceremony. Parents, students, and staff stood around and talked about the students and all the positives things that they are doing. It was time for pictures and laughter. It is a great opportunity that I have - to be involved in the lives of so many kids on a daily basis. Events like last night give me an opportunity to visit with the parents and share stories about their kids and learn a little about the families as well. Mrs. Swaney put on a great show. Thank you to Mrs. Anderson for her assistance with the music.