Jones County Schools News Archives

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JCSD Mission

Jones County School District is a community partnership that empowers and inspires students to reach their maximum potential and become productive citizens by providing challenging educational experiences through effective teaching strategies in environments conducive to learning.

The Jones County School District…..
We Empower and Inspire!

Jones County School District's
News Archive
2009-2010

Jones County School District Vacancy Announcement
	Position:	Athletic Director / Head Football Coach
	Term of Employment:	230 days per school year
	Employment Date:	Immediately upon approval
	Salary:	Based on degree and experience
	Application Deadline:	February 12, 2010
	Job Description:	Organize and administer the overall program of extra-curricular athletics and serve as head coach of the football program.
	Qualifications:	Valid Mississippi teaching certificate
	Contact Person:	Mr. Cooper Pope, Supervising Principal Northeast Jones High School 68 Northeast Drive Laurel, MS 39443 Telephone: 601-425-2347

West Jones High Top 5 Beauties

A. Chapa	J. Ward

C. Windham	K. Simpson

L. Pacific

West Jones Jr. High Top 5 Beauties

S. Stevens	A. Mathews

T. Sanders	K. Robison

H. Jones

West Jones Cheerleaders Clinch MHSSA 5A Small State Championship

The West Jones Cheerleaders, under the direction of Coach Debbie Bender and Assistant Coach Janice McCullum, won their second MHSSA 5A Small State Championship in the Jackson Coliseum on Saturday, December 19. The squad competed against 5-A squads from all over the state. Having competed in the 4A division in years past, the girls were a little nervous about exactly what their competition would be, but they quickly learned that these 5A squads were both skilled and talented.

After having placed third in 2006, winning in 2007, and tying for second place in 2008, the girls worked even harder this year. They practiced for two hours, four to five days each week. Additionally, they attended LGA under the supervision of Ope Coulter and Sara Jones. Vicente Monsavis and Jobiy Moss also from LGA were instrumental in assisting in the preparing the girls for the state competition.

Coach Bender commented, "The other squads were awesome, especially Neshoba Central! I am so proud of my girls and their performance this year. Today's championship was a fitting finale for all of their hard work. I also want to thank the cheer parents, the administration, faculty, and Touchdown Club for their support throughout the year. Coach McCullum and I know that win or lose, we always enjoy coaching these girls each year; but when we clinch the top spot, it makes all the work all worthwhile! Someone once said, 'To love what you do and feel that it matters...how could anything be more fun?'"

L to R first row: A. Dennis and S. Musgrove

L to R second row: K. Simpson, T. Holifield, M. Wallace, L. Ishee, and H. Graves

L to r third row: B. Parker, S. Allen, S. Hill, L. Pacific, J. Parker, C. Windham, H. Jefcoat, and H. Hinton

NEJ Middle School Health and Wellness Clinic

Recently the Jones County School Nurses provided a 'Health/Wellness Clinic' for the 7th grade students at Northeast Jones Middle School. Students were able to have their heights and weights measured, blood pressure and vision checked during Ms. Lisa Bolivar and Ms. Destiny Parker’s Career Discovery classes. The nurses also took time to discuss with the students possible future opportunities in the medical career field. Ms. Parker said she thought the students enjoyed the clinic and was pleased by the variety of health/wellness questions posed by the students.

Skeletons Found in Fourth Grade Classroom at South Jones Elementary

Mrs. Mechelle Shoemake's fourth grade class at South Jones Elementary School has been studying the skeleton system. They have been having fun learning all of the bones in the human body. This week the students cut out life-size replicas of themselves and placed all of the bones in the correct places. They worked in groups to create four complete skeletons. The students thoroughly enjoyed this activity and said it was the best yet.

Study Island Holiday Card Contest

	South Jones Elementary has three fifth grade classes that participating in the Study Island Holiday Card Contest. Study Island is a computer based preparation for the MCT2 test we take in May. Study Island offered students an opportunity to show off their artwork for the holidays.The students along with a panel of judges will have the opportunity to vote on the winning card. One winner will be chosen nationally and their card will be featured in the December
newsletter for Study Island. The winner’s homeroom will also receive $100.00 for their class. Mrs. Kim Beech’s fifth grade students and their Christmas cards are pictured above.

Veteran’s Lunch with Students at South Jones Elementary

Students from Mrs. Nicole Smith’s second grade class were delighted to share their Veterans with fellow classmates. Along with eating lunch with the class, these men spent time speaking with them about their service to our country. Veterans speaking to her class on Veteran’s Day were: Sergeant First Class Marvin Windham, father of Timothy Windham, who in December will have served 24 years in the Mississippi National Guard, Mr. Billy Strickland, Evan Ellzey’s grandfather, served in the Army Specialist Force Class for two years in Germany, and E4 Mr. Haskel Graham, who served 6 years in the US Air Force in Southeast Asia, shared lunch with his granddaughter, Lauren Baker. Pictured Left to Right is: E4 Mr. Haskel Graham and Grandaughter Lauren Baker SFC Mr. Marvin Windham and Son Timothy Windham SPC Mr. Billy Strickland and Grandson Evan Ellzey

Students of the Month

South Jones Elementary School is proud to announce their "Students of the Month" and give a special thanks to the "Student of the Month" adopters: Community Bank, Ellisville Lions Club, Ellisville Medical Clinic, Ward's Pharmacy, Ellisville Drugs, Shirtz & Stuff, West Quality Foods, Howard Industries, and Dance Arts Studio. Below is listed the "Students of the Month" and their homeroom teacher.

Sixth Grade - Flowers – S. Sandifer, Riley – L. Porter, Mitchell – A. Moss, Zumwalt – J. McGilberry, Weber – S. Taylor, Windham - S. Holifield

Fifth Grade - J. Beech – M. Odom, K. Beech - T. Evans, Yarbrough – M. Blanks, Lawson – D.Frazier, Pruitt – J. Vick, Hester – L. Jones

Fourth Grade -M. Shoemake – B. Hodge, Leggett – R.l Zumwalt, Arender – R. Anderson, Simpson – J. Cooley, A. Smith – A. Bryant,

Harrison – C. Locklear, Blackwell – L. Louge

Jones County Junior College Nursing Students Speak on Living Healthier

LPN students from JCJC visited South Jones Elementary School with encouraging words of staying fit and living a healthier life. The JCJC nursing students went into the fourth grade classrooms and spoke with the students about healthy habits. This could be from washing hands to eating healthier foods. They also discussed the need to exercise and keep our bodies fit. Special thanks to JCJC Nursing Students for encouraging our students to become healthier.

Standing from Left to Right---- Instructor Helena Gunnell, Mason Smith, Marina Lawson McCullough, Brittany Harper, Jennifer Hosey, Instructor Lori Tally.

Sitting from Left to Right---- Samantha Brown, Sia Shearer, Kari Miller, Jessica Crowe, Jessica Dansby

NEJ is getting PHAT!

NEJ Supervising Principal Copper Pope is encouraging and rewarding all classes at Northeast Jones high school and middle school to get PHAT. PHAT stands for Perfect homework/bellwork, Perfect attendance, Perfect tardies (no tardies.)PHAT is a new school wide program aimed at helping students to come to school, get to class on time, and have all homework/bell work completed. Each day building principals push their PHAT cart down the halls after the tardy bell and check with teachers to see if all students for the class are present, on time and have their work completed, if so the class is rewarded with an assortment of candies and drinks from the PHAT cart. Students have really responded well to the program and teachers have commented on how the program is helping encourage hard work and reduced absenteeism for their classes.

Bobcat Peacemakers Club at South Jones Elementary School

The following students were chosen to become a member of the Peacemakers Club at South Jones Elementary School. They were chosen based on their involvement and encouraging other students to work cooperatively and peacefully with each other. This program is sponsored by Mr. Andy Dial

Back Row L to R: Janice Williams, Principal, Kemberly Freeman, Dakeva Pugh, Robert Alponse, Steven Sasser, McCoy Walters, Reagan Barber, Haley Ellzey, Riley Gavin, Diane Williams JCJC Non-Traditional Student Director, and Andy Dial President of the Jones County Board of Supervisors

Front Row L to R: Scarlett Sandifer, Hailey Reed, Raye Johnson, Ashlynn Whitehead, Kaitlyn Warden, Meagan Keyes, Laura Griffin, and Lakyn Soto

Master Potter Visits South Jones High School’s Art Department

Master Potter, Byron Myrick, visited Ms. Sharon Howard’s art class recently. He demonstrated how to throw clay on the potter’s wheel and a variety of techniques to be employed when throwing. He also presented much information about the history of pottery making.

Myrick has been teaching at Jones Junior college for approximately 30 years. He has studied at Arrowmont School fo Art, in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Penland School of Crafts, ini North Carolina. He was named featured artisan at the prestigious “Chimneyville” artist and crafts event, which is hosted annually by the Mississippi Craftsmen’s Guild.

There were over 200 artisans at the event, which was held at the Mississippi Trademart, in Jackson, Mississippi, during the first week of December.

The art students found Myrick’s demonstration on the potter’s wheel to be very informative.

Fire Prevention Training
Students all across the Nation are being taught about fire safety and how to prevent fires, “National Fire Prevention Program.” At South Jones Elementary School instructions were given about fire safety and demonstrations were given of the actual look of a fireman’s suit as they enter into a burning house. This will help the children to not be afraid when they see the firemen in their suits. This could save a child’s life. A tour of the fire truck was given by the Ellisville Firemen to all students. Special thanks to Captain Ronnie McGillberry and the Ellisville Firemen for volunteer
their time to teach our students about fire safety and to help our students be prepared if a fire was to occur in their home.

Jones County Vocational School Student Council Attends Leadership Conference

<empty>Jones County Vocational School Student Council Attends Leadership Conference

The student council at the Jones County Vocational School attended the Mississippi State Association of Student Councils Fall Leadership Conference at Jones County Junior College. The theme for the conference was “The Vision of Leadership.” Content sessions focused on the art of communication and motivation, mutual respect, instilling confidence and enthusiasm, and showing credibility and integrity on a consistent basis.

After the conference, student council visited the first grade classes at Moselle Elementary and presented a lesson on Halloween Safety. Student Council advisors are Debra Bush and Teri Tanner.

Picture:
Front Row (Left to Right) J. Arrington, A. Wu, K. Walters, O. Loper, K. Pool, Teri Tanner, advisor

Back Row (Left to Right) Debra Bush, advisor, Z. Chamblee, H. Jefcoat, J. Parker, R. Gunn, A. Rudolph, A. Strickland, J. Hales, T. Buquoi

Mission at the Cross

East Jones Elementary Jr. Beta members recently completed a fall service project. The Beta students collected shoe boxes and filled them with personal care items and special treats for the men housed at the Laurel site of Mission at the Cross. The project culminated with students and sponsors delivering the boxes and receiving a personal tour of the facility, including the Motorcycle Shop. Mission at the Cross is a Hellfighters International Ministry focusing on the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of the underprivileged. The Laurel site is under the leadership of Michael Shirley and is operated solely on donations and community volunteerism. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Mr. Shirley at 601.342.2678.

"High Five Club" at West Jones Middle School

West Jones Middle School administration and staff have designed the "High Five Club" to encourage positive behavior among students. This positive behavior intervention is a team based approach to enforce positive behavior among the student body. Wade Clark, middle school principal, Doreen Hill, middle school counselor, and all the 7th and 8th grade teachers issue tickets to students seen exhibiting desired behavior. Tickets are then deposited into the "High Five" box for a drawing each Friday. Two winning students are then awarded prizes and their names are added to the "High Five Club" roster. By using this unique technique, WJMS is moving from a culture that is set up to catch students breaking rules to a culture that is set up to catch students in positive behaviors.

The "High Five" Motto is:

1) Be Safe

2) Be Responsible

3) Be Respectful

4) Be Honest

5) Be Your Best

Jones County Seniors Preview Careers
Approximately 430 seniors from Northeast Jones, South Jones and West Jones recently attended the Jones County School District’s annual College & Career Day held on the campus of Northeast Jones. Seventy-two presenters representing sixty disciplines, state colleges and universities and all branches of the armed services were on hand to offer seniors an overview of their chosen career.

"TEACHING AMERICAN HISTORY” Workshop
The National WWII Museum, New Orleans, LA
July 13 – 14, 2009

"TEACHING AMERICAN HISTORY” Workshop

As part of the ongoing SREESA continuing education series “TEACHING AMERICAN HISTORY”, a workshop was held at the National WWII Museum in New Orleans, LA in July, 2009. This workshop provided in-depth information for the teaching of WW II through the use of primary documents and technology in the classroom. Attending this workshop were five members of the West Jones faculty…Reed Walters, Randy Cooley, David Valentine, George Blackledge, and Jeff Weber.

WJMS "Bud, Not Buddy"

Reading students in Mrs. Gwen Milsap's 7th grade classes have been reading "Bud, Not Buddy" a historical fiction filled with many literacy devices. Working in groups, students were assigned specific things to look for as they read. The specific groups included Names & Places, Rules & Things, The Doors, The Suitcases, and The Writing. All of these categories are centered around the theme of Doors Opening and Closing both literally and figuratively. Each group created a visual to present to the class.

Pictured are:
Front l-r--A. Kimberlin, T. Parker, and T. Phillip
Back l-r--J. Gammage, C. Keyes, A. Dearman, H. Windham, M. Chao, F. Jackson, B. Shelby, and S. Matthews.

"Welcome to the Real World"

West Jones Middle School Career Discovery students experienced the "Welcome to the Real World" during class. This program is sponsored by the Mississippi State University Extension Service. Mrs. Susan Cosgrove, Area Extension Agent/ Family Resource Management Director presented the curriculum to the students. This is a Life Skills Activity in which students are assigned a scenario which included a lifestyle-married or single, with children or without children and a career with a salary. The students then go to "Uncle Sam" first to pay taxes on their monthly income and then to the bank to deposit the remainder of living money. Then students visit stations such as housing, utilities, transportation, communication, Fashion and Beauty, Child care, Insurance, groceries, contributions, crystal ball(unexpected money made or lost) and SOS(additional job or loans).

Students commented after completing the activity that "Life is hard!!", "I now understand why my parents sometimes tell me No about getting things." They really understood the importance of getting a good education in order to get a good job. Students seemed to have an appreciation for the priviledged life that they live. Helping Mrs. Cosgrove was Mr. Brant Nichols, Jones Co. Ext. Agent and Mrs. McAdory, Bancorp Bank.

NEJ FBLA Donates to Salvation Army

Northeast Jones FBLA members showed their Christmas spirit by donating to the Salvation Army. FBLA members shopped for toys and goodies and then stuffed 50 Christmas stockings that were delivered to the Salvation Army. The stockings will be available for preapproved parents of needy children to give to their children for Christmas. NEJ FBLA members have participated in this project for the last ten years and have donated over 400 stockings. Shown loading the stockings for delivery are from left: Debbie Griffin, Advisor; Breonka Crosby; Hannah Lopez; Kelsey Cook, FBLA State Officer; Becky Tew, Advisor; and Thomas Wagnon.

NEJ Ag Students Work on Campus Landscaping

Northeast Jones vocational-agriculture students under the instruction of Rod Tolbert and Ken Parker recently spent several days working on campus landscaping. Under the supervision of their instructors, students removed rotten crossties from flowerbeds in front of the classroom buildings, replacing them with retaining wall blocks. “This type of activity provides students with hands-on application of concepts learned in the classroom,” stated Rod Tolbert. “We view this as an ‘outdoor classroom’, stated Ken Parker. “Students are learning by doing! Not only do they learn practical application of learned skills, they also take pride in a job well done!” Pictured (l-r) are: James Parker, Ken Parker-Instructor, Kaegan Thornhill, Rod Tolbert-Instructor, Kody Kelley, Eli Edwards, Bethany Cooley, Barrett Lozano, Memorie Boykin, Kelly Overland.

Junior Auxiliary Presents Puppet Show


The program, "Someone to Talk To," puppet show is presented each year by the Laurel Junior Auxiliary to all 1st grade students at South Jones Elementary. The above ladies are all active members of the
Laurel Junior Auxiliary. Rosemary Norton is a Life/Associate member. The puppets consist of caseworkers, teachers, principals, and students. Pictured above is John Issac Howell shaking hands with one of the puppets. The group picture consists of: L-R Back Row: Emily Green, Rosemary Norton, Amy Cox, & Jane Pitts, Front Row: Sara Hupe, and Jessica Dees. We would like to express our thanks to the Junior Auxiliary for taking time out of their schedule to support our school!

Bobcat Peacemakers Club at South Jones Elementary

The first meeting of the Jones County Junior College Bobcat Peacemakers Club met on Monday. Mrs. Diane Williams, JCJC Nontraditional Student Success Center Director, met with students in grades 4-6 to teach positive conflict resolution skills. A school-wide initiative focusing on peace will be on-going throughout the school year. A special student organization, the Bobcat Peacemaker Club, has been organized to recognize students promoting peace on campus. Monthly programs will be held to recognize and reward Bobcat Peacemakers.

Students who wanted to join the Bobcat Peacemakers Club were asked to sign the “No Bullying Pledge” listed below:

I will not bully others.
I will try to help others who are bullied.
I will make a point to include all children who are easily left out.
I will set an example as a caring person, and I will encourage others to do the same.

JCJC has adopted our school, and is involved in many educational activities at South Jones Elementary. The goal of JCJC and our school is to improve the education of our students, the “Future Bobcats.” Pictured is, Mrs. Diane Williams, JCJC Nontraditional Student Success Center Director, teaching a lesson about positive ways to handle bullying situations to the classes of Mrs. Ashley Smith and Mrs. Laura Harrison.

Character First Lesson on Dependability

JCJC has adopted our school, and is involved in many educational activities at South Jones Elementary. The goal of JCJC volunteers and our school is to improve the education of our students. Pictured above is Dr. Jessie Smith teaching a character first lesson on Dependability to second grade classes of Mrs. Rebekah Breland and Mrs. Beth King.

WJHS Quiz Bowl Ranked 6th in Nation

West Jones High School's Quiz Bowl team is ranked 6th in the nation among high school teams by the National Academic Quiz Tournaments, LLC. WJ Quiz Bowl team is the only team in Mississippi ranked in the top 50. Quiz bowl is a competitive, academic, interscholastic activity for which players attend periodic practices and then represent their school at varsity tournaments. Quiz bowl questions range over the entire spectrum of the high school curriculum and also include a certain amount of current events, sports, and popular culture. The matches feature a blend of individual competition and team collaboration, since no individual player is likely to be an expert in all subject areas. Quiz bowl reinforces classroom lessons and also encourages players to go beyond their assignments to master other areas as well. The WJHS Quiz Bowl team will compete in additional tournaments in the spring. Pictured are l-r: B. Kizzar, W. Lyon, B. Atchley, B. Holifield Not pictured (A.J. Beech and C. Harris)

Noble Recognized for National Merit Award

Pictured left to right: J. Noble, Mr. Steve Thrash

J. Noble was recently recognized by the Jones County School Board for being named a National Merit Semifinalist by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Over 1.5 million high school juniors competed in the 2010 National Merit Scholarship Program. Noble was one of only 16,000 nationwide to receive this highest of academic honors. Noble, a senior at Northeast Jones High School, received a certificate of achievement from Mr. Steve Thrash, Superintendent of Jones County Schools.

WJHS HOBY Recipient

S. Kiparizoska was selected as 2009 West Jones High School Hugh O'Brian Youth (HOBY) recipient. She is a 10th grade student who is on track to graduate with Highest Honors and Mississippi Scholars. She is active in numerous clubs and organizations that involve her in community service. She is also a member of the Varsity Tennis Team, Quiz Bowl Team and the Drama Club. This seminar encourages and assist potential leaders to enhance their leadership skills and abilities. The seminar will be held June 4th-6th at Millsaps College in Jackson. She is the daughter of Zan and Gordana Kiparizoska.

READING to 100!

Pictured: Front Row: B. Turner, K. Arrington, H. Tope, DC White - Back Row: Dr. Griffith, J. Graham, K. Dial, L. Bradley, M. Taylor, and A. Bullock.

Dr. Kimberly Griffith’s class of East Jones Elementary recently participated in a reading partnership with the Scholastic Book Club. The students were challenged to read 100 books! The students met the challenge with ease. Now, the Book Club will donate books to Dr. Griffith’s class and donate one million books to students who are less fortunate. Congratulations, Students on a job well done!

High-Tech Exam Review

Students in Melissa Thrash's 7th grade Social Studies class reviewed for semester exams with the help of Howard Laptop computers. Mrs. Thrash received the computers through a grant. The students utilized Mindpoint Quiz Show to reinforce social studies facts. Way to go....7th graders!!

WJ Junior High Peer Council Thanks Nurse Hill

Members of the West Jones Junior High Peer Council presented a gift to Nurse Charlene Hill in appreciation for all she does for the Peer Council during the school year. Nurse Hill coordinates many projects and offers training to members as they work with elementary students promoting healthy life choices.

Pictured with Nurse Charlene Hill are B. Matthews and K. Hall

Trim The Tree With NJE

North Jones Elementary students and teachers gathered around the Christmas tree to decorate it with hand made ornaments. They also enjoyed delicious Christmas cookies and sang carols. Merry Christmas!

MRS. SHEREE BUCKHAULTS' STUDENTS CREATE STORY BOOKS

On November 5, Mrs. Buckhaults’ fifth period Creative Writing class went across the street to read their story, “A Fairy’s Tale,” to the third grade Star Reach students. The story was a project that the Creative Writing students had worked on together for the Star Reach class and their teachers, Mrs. Amanda Ingram and Mrs. Jan Delk.

SJE Winners of the Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl Poster Contest

Mrs. Cynthia Sheppard and Mrs. Dave Anne Wheat, members of the Park Place Garden Club of Laurel, presented four South Jones Elementary students with their ribbons for participating in the “Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl Poster Contest.” Students participating in this contest were required to draw a poster that reflected their understanding of fire prevention and basic environmental conservation principles. The first place winners’ posters will be entered into the state contest; with the chance of going on to National competition. Mrs. Sheppard, chairman, and Mrs. Wheat, a committee member of this project, presented M. Breland and B. Sanderson with first place ribbons. Second place ribbon winners were C. Smith and J. Tisdale.

Granny's Pantry

South Jones Elementary Foster Grandparents participated in the “Granny’s Pantry” project. Each year, during December the Red Cross delivers boxes of food to the frail/elderly in the Pine Belt area. The Foster Grandparents asked students to donate jars of peanut butter for this project. Students donated over 100 jars. Pictured are from left to right are: Mrs. Edna Newell, Mrs. Carolyn Hood, Mr. Tommy Robinson, Mrs. Ruth Hadley, and Mrs. Glenda Gose. South Jones Elementary School appreciates the tremendous help our Foster Grandparents give to our students. We were glad to help them out with a special project they participate in. The Foster Grandparent Program Director is Mrs. Mary Lynn Smith.

WJH Trebuchet Day

Recently, West Jones High School's "Introduction to Engineering" class held in its third semi-annual "Trebuchet Day." Students worked in design teams to construct a working trebuchet, a counter-weight catapult. Students used their knowledge of gravitational force, static equilibrium, dynamic equilibrium, torque, centripetal force, and projectile motion, in order to, build a trebuchet model.

Pictured left to right: D. Caves; L. Seals; H. Logan; S. Brown, teacher; B. Shows; A. Beech; and M. Martin.

Jones County Vo-tech Student Council Presents The Leadership Secrets of Santa Claus

Picture Front Row (Left to Right) Mia Frazier, Santa Claus (Tory Buquoi), Audrianna Strickland, Julisa Hales.Back Row (Left to Right) Jason Arrington, James Walters, Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Operations

The student council at the Jones County Vocational Center presented The Leadership Secrets of Santa Claus at the December meeting of the Jones County School Board. Their presentation included a skit and video based on the leadership traits of Santa Claus.

To show their appreciation for the leadership that the school board provides throughout the year, the student council provided supper prepared by the Culinary Arts Program at the Jones County Vocational Center. Debra Bush and Teri Tanner are student council advisors.

Secret Santas Spread Christmas Cheer

Members of the West Jones High School Student Council became Secret Santas to deliver Christmas cheer to students on campus. Council members sold candy canes with personalized messages and delivered them to the individual recipients. Over 1800 candy canes were sold with the proceeds going to selected community projects. Council sponsor is Natalie Wedgeworth.

2009 WDAM All-Area Football Team

D. McCullum, WJHS senior, was selected for the 2009 WDAM All-Area Football Team. McCullum was also chosen to play in the Bernard Blackwell All-Star Football Game at Gulfport High School's Milner Stadium, Gulfport, MS on Saturday, December 19, 2009.

WJHS Outstanding Student--December

West Jones High School administration and staff are proud to announce that Santiago Yanez has been named Outstanding Student of the Month for December. Yanez was chosen among a group of students who had exemplary citizenship and school attendance.

He was awarded a $50 prize. Congratulations!!

Christmas for Soldiers

The MS Peer Council made Christmas Cards for soldiers through a program that Mrs. Crystal Hinton works with. Mrs. Hinton sends the cards to a hostess who then distributes the cards. One of Megan Grafton's cards got a response from the soldier who received it. She received a personal letter and a certificate from his group. He also sent a certificate to the Peer Council for sending cards.

Pictured is M. Grafton and Mrs. Crystal Hinton

West Jones Jr. Beta Club Elects Officers

Members of the West Jones Jr. Beta Club recently elected officers for the 2009-2010 school year.

Elected were:
Alise Mathews-President
Kelsie Bynum-Vice President
Caroline Little-Treasurer
Kathy Nguyn-Secretary

The officers are currently planning for state competitions which will be held in the spring.

Congratulations to Kimberly Bradshaw!

Congratulations to Mrs. Kimberly Bradshaw who has received National Board Teacher Certification.

Investment in Students Future!

Pictures above are W. and J. Mitchell presenting Mrs. Donna Scott with a check on behalf of Lee J. Mitchell, Edward Jones Investments. Mr. Mitchell gave a donation to South Jones Elementary to help enhance the technology of our computer labs. Thanks to donations like this, the students at SJE will be able to keep up with the ever changing world of technology. Mr. Mitchell has been a supporter of all the schools in Ellisville and works to help provided the students with opportunities to succeed. Thanks for your donation!

SOUTH JONES HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS EXPERIENCE RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Seniors at South Jones High school traveled to Hammond, Louisiana, on November 17, 2009, to experience a real-life sixteenth century English village with their English teachers: Sarah Wansley and Geri Hathorn. Amy Marshall, Cindy Steinwinder, and Kyle Hathorn also served as chaperones for the trip. Students attending the annual Renaissance Festival observed jousting, falconry, glass blowing, wood working, theater, musical acts, knight combating, candle making, and a variety of other interactive shows and demonstrations.

ARTIST FROM MEMPHIS COLLEGE OF ART VISITS SOUTH JONES HIGH SCHOOL’S ART DEPARTMENT
	Katey Henrikson is a representative/alumni artist from Memphis College of Art. She visited Ms. Sharon Howard’s art class recently to view student portfolios and to discuss how the students can receive a scholarship to attend Memphis College of Art. Several questions were posed to Mrs. Henrikson by students in Ms. Howard’s
Art II and Art III classes regarding art careers. Mrs. Henrikson shared with the students how she makes her living by utilizing her artistic talents in graphic design and book/paper making.

Braves Angels
	South Jones Elementary students are pictured with their Braves Angels. Mrs. Greta Blackwell and Mrs. Debbie Kelly’s fourth grade class handmade the blue and red angels while practicing their skills of following verbal directions. After completing their angels, students created flow maps sequencing each
step of the process and then composed paragraphs from their maps. Students will use their compositions at a later date to create more angels. This writing activity demonstrated why precise writing is so important. The Braves Angles were sold during the week of SJE’s Fall Festival and are still available at both offices if you would like to purchase one.

2009 Most Outstanding Bandmaster for the State of Mississippi

South Jones High School Band Director Artie Adams has been named the “2009 Most Outstanding Bandmaster for the State of Mississippi.” This tremendous honor was voted on, and presented to him by his peers on December 11, 2009, at the annual Band Directors’ Convention held in Tupelo.

Artie Adams is currently in his 17th year as director of bands at South Jones High School. Adams received his bachelor and master of education degrees from The University of Southern Mississippi. In 1993, he received the A. E. McLain Outstanding Young Band Director Award for Mississippi. Adams has served on the staff of the Mississippi Lion's All-State band three times: two times as percussion instructor in 1998 and 2001 and concert director for the 2007 International Lions Parade Champions in Chicago. In 1999, Adams was named Outstanding Director for the District Five Band Directors’ Association. Adams has been a Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year for Jones County, winner of the Jones County AEE Award of Excellence in Education, Who’s Who among American Teachers, and STAR Teacher for South Jones. Also, he was named Teacher of the Year for South Jones High School for 2007. Adams has served two terms as president of the Southeast Mississippi Band Directors’ Association.

Under the direction of Artie Adams, the South Jones High School Band has built a reputation as one of the most outstanding performing groups in the state of Mississippi. For the past 16 years, South Jones has consistently received superior ratings and won first place awards in marching, concert, and sight-reading at festivals and contests in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas. South Jones has finished in the top five finals in the Mississippi Marching Band Championships in 2007, 2008, 2009. Also, South Jones was chosen to represent the State of Mississippi in the 2009 National Memorial Day parade in Washington, D.C. South Jones has consistently placed numerous students in All-Star and All-State Bands during the past 16 years. South Jones Band students have performed in Boston, San Diego, New York, Chicago, Denver, San Diego, Indianapolis, Washington, D.C., London, Paris, Rome, and Vienna, Austria.

Artie often serves as an adjudicator and clinician for band contests and clinics around the State of Mississippi. Away from school activities, he is a member of the Hattiesburg City Band and he is an active member of his church choir. In his leisure time, Artie enjoys running in 5K races and riding his motorcycle. Artie and his wife,
Sheila, have two children, Andrew and Abbey, who play the baritone and trombone respectively.

Study Island Holiday Card Contest

$Multiplication Sliders$

Students in Mrs. Greta Blackwell and Mrs. Debbie Kelly’s fourth grade at South Jones Elementary made multiplication sliders out of empty Pringles cans. Students practiced the skill of following verbal and written directions in order to complete their sliders. These sliders will be used by students to review basic multiplication facts. After completing their projects, students created flow maps sequencing the steps of the process. Using their maps, they composed paragraphs which will be used by other students to create their own multiplication sliders. This writing activity makes the connections for students between process paragraphs they are asked to write and directions they find in purchased products. The connection shows why precise clear writing is important. Pictured is Mrs. Debbie Kelly instructing Grayson O'Neal on his multiplication slider.

Study Island Holiday Card Contest

South Jones Elementary has three fifth grade classes that participating in the Study Island Holiday Card Contest. Study Island is a computer based preparation for the MCT2 test we take in May. Study Island offered students an opportunity to show off their artwork for the holidays. The students along with a panel of judges will have the opportunity to vote on the winning card. One winner will be chosen nationally and their card will be featured in the December newsletter for Study Island. The winner’s homeroom will also receive $100.00 for their class. Mrs. Kim Beech’s fifth grade students and their Christmas cards are pictured above.

Lauren Rogers Museum a Blessing to Our Students

The South Jones Elementary fourth grade classes had the opportunity to visit the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art in Laurel to view and participate in the Choctaw Exhibit. The museum provided the students with a variety of hands-on activities including jewelry making, basket weaving, and basket weaving artwork. One of the student’s favorite activities was watching and participating in the Choctaw Indian dances. The students were given a guided tour of the artwork and the magnificent and rare multicultural baskets and their uses. The fourth grade students of South Jones Elementary would like to thank the Lauren Rogers Museum for providing this outstanding multicultural exhibit.

Former Third Grade Teacher Keeps Educational Tradition Going

Mrs. Kaye Howard, a retired teacher from the Jones County School District, volunteers to read to classes at South Jones Elementary School. In the picture, Mrs. Howard is pictured with her granddaughter, Madison Diers. Madison is in Mr. Coty Shoemake’s third grade class. Mrs. Howard was Mr. Shoemake’s third grade teacher, who is now teaching Madison. We would like to thank Mrs. Howard for volunteering to come and read each year to our classes.

WJH Introduction to Engineering Truss Bridges

Recently, West Jones High School "Introduction to Engineering" students designed, constructed, and tested truss bridge models with weight loads to determine strength, efficiency, deflection, and failure limits. Students used their knowledge of forces, static equilibrium, and torque to design their models.

Pictured
Front Row (left to right): M. Martin, B. Shows,and D. Caves
Back Row (left to right): AJ Beech, H. Logan, and L. Seals.

Jones County Vo-Tech Student Council Spreads Christmas Spirit

The student council at the Jones County Vocational Center brought holiday cheer to the residents at Comfort Care Nursing Home. They sang Christmas carols and brought over 130 hand-made Christmas tree ornaments for the residents to decorate their rooms. Student council sponsors are Debra Bush and Teri Tanner.

Thank You from NJE

The North Jones Elementary faculty and staff would like to thank the P.T.O. for the wonderful Thanksgiving lunch.

Pictured: P.T.O. Parent Volunteers

North Jones Elementary October Students and Bus Student of the Month

Kindergarten-Third Grade

R. Ridgway, N. Sharp, G. Siddon, R. Cornier, K. Brooks, C. Pitts, M. Sanchez, C. Holifield, K. Green, M. Sparks, J. Scruggs, J. Coffin, M. Simmons, B. Rozek, E. Herrera, B. Parker, W. Mockabee, K. Ulmer, E. Kiparizoska, T. Pankowski, T. Halton, T. McCullum Not Pictured: D. Murphy

Fourth-Sixth Grade

J. Ni, S. Taylor, M. Windham, D. Stockstill, K. Yates, A. Musgrove, T. Pitts, K. West, D. Hodges, B. Kelley, I. McLaurin, M. Cooley, M. Twillie, I. Hernandez, T. Leggett

Bus Student of the Month

D. Page, M. Matthews, T. Ulmer, L. Smith, D. Hodges, M. Wade, M. Cooley, A. Hamilton, W. Mockabee, S. Moore, I. Pleas, J. Bassett, C. McCormick

Operation Christmas Child News- WJHS Student Council


The West Jones High School Student Council recently donated 25 shoeboxes to Samaritan's Purse for Operation Christmas Child. Membersraised money throughout the high school and purchased items for the shoeboxes. Shown are the members that went shopping and the finished shoeboxes on the day of delivery. Sponsors ar Natalie Wedgeworth and Lorre Rose.
Members in top picture: H. Ishee K. Bynum M. Ulmer D. Leggett A. Williams H. Duong P. Miller R. Jefcoat S. Kiparizoska A. Mathews S. B. Stevens	Members in bottom picture: H. Duong S. B. Stevens K. Bynum K. Speed D. Clark A. Mathews D. Leggett R. Jefcoat A. Williams S. Kiparizoska P. Miller H. Ishee K. McCoy

A Fun Filled Day of Activities at SJE

Cook Named FBLA State Officer
	K. Cook, a senior at Northeast Jones High School, has been selected as state reporter for the Future Business Leaders of America. Cook has participated in FBLA for several years, serving as a local officer, winning Southern District events, and competing in state events. In addition to FBLA, Cook is a member of the NEJ Gold Horizons Show Choir where she is a team captain. She has also performed in the NEJ drama productions of Wizard of Oz, Annie, Little Women, and The Sound of Music. Cook volunteers her time in other organizations on campus such as TGIF, Serteens, Beta
Club, and TARS. An honors student, Cook is a 2009 graduate of Future Business Leaders of Jones County and was elected Most Talented in the 2010 NEJ Who’s Who.
As state FBLA reporter, Cook will create and maintain a website for FBLA members, submit new articles to the national website and magazine, and attend and support each district, state, and national FBLA conference. Debbie Griffin and Becky Tew are her FBLA sponsors.

South Jones Elementary School Receives a Great Contribution

Mr. Jim Burge, Director of Retail Operations, for Ramco, Inc; which is a company affiliated with Exxon Mobile, presented South Jones Elementary School with a check in the amount of $750.00. This donation will allow our school to purchase much needed supplies. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Burge and his company for supporting our school and our students. Pictured left to right are, Mrs. Donna Scott, Principal of South Jones Elementary, Mr. Jim Burge, the representative from Ramco, Inc., and Mrs. Janice Williams, Supervising Principal of South Jones Elementary.

Bobcat Readers

In the photo above, South Jones Elementary Principal, Mrs. Janice Williams, and first grade teacher, Mrs. Linda Fitzgerald, are shown with Mrs. Diane Williams, Director of the JCJC Nontraditional Student Success Center, and Mr. John Vansteensburg, JCJC Nontraditional Student Association board member. The Jones County Junior College Nontraditional Student Association (NTSA) has committed to an annual service project, Bobcat Readers, to help emerging readers in local elementary schools. Each week, members of the Nontraditional Student Association visit South Jones Elementary School to read to elementary students. Principal, Mrs. Janice Williams, Mrs. Linda Fitzgerald, and their students appreciate the support that Jones County Junior College provides.

SOUTH JONES HIGH SCHOOL NEWS

MRS. WENDY EVANS’ STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN QUIZ BOWL

These students participated in the second annual Jones Junioer College Math Quiz Bowl held at the Technology Center Wedneday, November 18, 2009.

L to R: J. Glaze, G. Knight, S. Carter, H. Scarborough, S. Craft, H. Thomas

SOUTH JONES HIGH SCHOOL OCTOBER STUDENT OF THE MONTH

H. Boot and Mrs. Wendy Evans. Boot is in the 11th grade

SOUTH JONES HIGH SCHOOL NOVEMBER STUDENT OF THE MONTH

W. Bradshaw and Mr. Lane Mcdonnieal. Bradshaw is in the 12th grade

NEJ Students Experience Cross-Curricular Study

While completing a unit of study on Mississippi agriculture, students in Mrs. Destiny Parker’s (center) Career Discovery students at Northeast Jones recently enjoyed the unique opportunity to study with NEJ Vocational-Agriculture students and their instructor, Mr. Rod Tolbert (far right). “This type of cross-curricular integrated activity allows students to experience first-hand the concepts we have covered in the classroom,” stated Mrs. Parker. “We took students to various sites on campus as asked them to collect soil samples,” stated Mr. Tolbert. “Returning to the classroom, students were shown how to test the soil content. We then discussed how soil type affects crop production. This activity helped the students understand the many steps which must be completed to take a crop from the field to the store.”

NEJ Blood Drive Successful

NEJ and United Blood Services recently joined forces for the biggest blood drive in the school's history. Pictured on front are M. Buckman, N. Smith, J. Slade, M. Johnson. Second row: Gary Townsend, 11th and 12th grade principal; M. Bonner, D. Cartwright, M. Ulmer, C. Graham, T. Vaughn, T. Lindsey, T. Womack, NEJ teacher Buzz Jack. Third row: K. Clairmont, C. Taylor, F. Smith, B. Benson, L. King, S. Tucker, S. Houston. Fourth row: D. Barefoot, L. Hamil, M. Patterson, M. Patterson, K. McNeill, J. Hinton, E. Pace, T. Rhymes, T. Black, A. Rudolph, S. Lampley. Fifth row: C. Kervin, Z. Ferguson, B. Padgett, J. Thornton, H. Clarke, S. Stancill, C. Brewer, B. Cooley, L. Gatlin, P. Walker. Sixth row: C. Eddy, R. Rowell, K. Culpepper, T. Boyd, Z. MacDonald, J. Parker, D. Stewart, J. Newell, L. Bush, D. Thompson, K. Overland, F. Johnston, S. Nichols, K. Cook.

Blood is flowing at Northeast Jones, and believe it or not, that's good news! The Northeast Jones Senior High Student Council hosted a blood drive in late October, giving 70 donors the opportunity to give 80 units to United Blood Services. Donor Recruitment Representative Beverly Clark praised NEJ for the most productive blood drive in the school's history. "The support of Northeast Jones High School will go a long way toward assuring a strong blood supply and ultimately saving lives," Clark said. The Senior High Student Council, under the leadership of teachers Deidra Bourg and Susan Hauenstein, hosts two blood drives each academic year. The next blood drive is planned for Tuesday, April 20, 2010. Community members are invited to visit the Bloodmobile on campus that day to show support for both NEJ and the United Blood Services.

Pictured are:

Front Row: M. Buckman, N. Smith, J. Slade, M. Johnson.

Second row: Gary Townsend, 11th and 12th grade principal; M. Bonner, D. Cartwright, M. Ulmer, C. Graham, T. Vaughn, T. Lindsey, T. Womack, NEJ teacher Buzz Jack.

Third row: K. Clairmont, C. Taylor, F. Smith, B. Benson, L. King, S. Tucker, S. Houston.

Fourth row: D. Barefoot, L. Hamil, M. Patterson, M. Patterson, K. McNeill, J. Hinton, E. Pace, T. Rhymes, T. Black, A. Rudolph, S. Lampley.

Fifth row: C. Kervin, Z. Ferguson, B. Padgett, J. Thornton, H. Clarke, S. Stancill, C. Brewer, B. Cooley, L. Gatlin, P. Walker.

Sixth row: C. Eddy, R. Rowell, K. Culpepper, T. Boyd, Z. MacDonald, J. Parker, D. Stewart, J. Newell, L. Bush, D. Thompson, K. Overland, F. Johnston, S. Nichols, K. Cook.

NEJ FFA Officers Attend National FFA Convention

Officers of the Northeast Jones Chapter of FFA recently attended National FFA Convention held in Indianapolis, Indiana. Their Ag instructors and FFA advisors Rod Tolbert and Ken Parker and NEJ FFA Alumni members Phyllis Wagnon, Michelle Pryor, Donna Strickland, Dwayne and Rhonda Walters, and Renee Tolbert accompanied them.

Pictured are:
(rear, l-r) A. Wolff, B. Weems, T. Wagnon, W. Allbrook,

(front, l-r) L. Herrington, H. Haas, S. Strickland, R. Cook, and S. Walters.

Chocolate Math

The third grade classes at East Jones Elementary are reading Chocolate Fever. Students in Pam Walters' room have been enjoying the many learning activities involving chocolate. Painting spelling words with cocoa was fun. The cocoa smelled great but didn't taste quite like they expected. The M & M math activity was yummy! Each student was given a bag of candy and had to guess how many candies of each color were in the bag. Then the students opened their bags and sorted & counted each color. The students compared the numbers and subtracted to find the difference. Then they enjoyed the sweet treat.

Livestock Evaluation Team Wins Bronze at National Convention

The Northeast Jones Senior FFA Livestock Evaluation Team recently attended the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana where they competed against FFA livestock evaluation teams from across the nation. The reigning Mississippi Championship Livestock Evaluation Team, they received the Bronze Award in national competition. The NEJ FFA Alumni Association and a number of individual and corporate supporters who wish to remain anonymous sponsored the team. “We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all of our sponsors and supporters,” stated Thomas Wagnon, NEJ FFA Chapter President. “Your prayers, support, and sponsorship made our trip possible! It was a fantastic experience! “ The team was composed of T. Wagnon, W. Allbrook, S. Walters, and S. Strickland.

NEJ Junior FFA Wins at State Fair

Northeast Jones Junior FFA Livestock Judging Team received first place in the Junior Division Livestock Judging competition at the Mississippi State Fair. The team is composed of M. Wagnon, F. Turner, B. Goode, and Z. Hodge. In January, 2010 they will compete in the South District Livestock Judging Contest to be held in Hattiesburg, MS. Their FFA advisors are Rod Tolbert and Ken Parker.

Open House @ the Jones County Vocational-Technical Center
Jones County Vocational School opened its doors in 1969 and has been in operation for 40 years. It serves students in grades 10-12 from Northeast, South, and West Jones High Schools with a sense of high expectations and positive attitudes. The faculty and staff at the center are committed to striving for excellence and preparing students to be successful in this ever-changing global society. All programs are business oriented and have close ties with business, industry and the community. Director Bruce Strickland said, “Vocational Education is dynamic and has changed from a focus on unskilled workers years ago to competition in a Global Economy which requires that students be highly skilled in order to be successful in business and industry. We should not have tunnel vision in Vocational Education when preparing students for life after high school and focus on one category of students. Today’s vocational programs are designed to help all students whether they intend to continue studies in college or go straight into the work force.” Student test scores at Jones County Vocational School have been among the highest in the state and in some areas the highest. Jones County Vocational students have set the standard for the number of students winning competition on the District, State and National levels. Many of the faculty and staff have also received State and National awards and recognition. The list can go on and on. Strickland said, “The success of the students is not an accident, but a testimony to Jones County students and the unlimited potential they possess. We started Open House to showcase all the great things happening at the Jones County Vocational Center.” The two-year skilled programs and their related student organizations offered at the Jones County Vocational Center include:
Allied Health - Health & Occupational Student of America (HOSA) Business and Computer Technology – Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Culinary and Related Foods Technology – Family, Career & Community Leaders of America FCCLA) General Drafting – Skills USA Metal Trades – Skills USA Automotive Service Technology – Skills USA Automotive Collision Repair Technology – Skills USA

Walters, Wagnon Win at Forrest County Livestock Show

Northeast Jones Senior FFA members S. Walters and T. Wagnon brought home wins from the recent Forrest County Livestock Show. Walters exhibited the Reserve Champion Brahman Influence Steer. She is the daughter of Dwayne and Ronda Walters of the Powers community. Wagnon exhibited the Champion Angus Bull. He is the son of Bill and Phyllis Wagnon of the Myrick community. Their Ag instructors and FFA advisors are Rod Tolbert and Ken Parker.

Pumpkin Time at North Jones Elementary

Mrs. Turner's first grade class created their own carved pumpkin. Students estimated how many seeds their pumpkin had, counted the seeds by ten and measured the circumference of their pumpkin. They also ate roasted pumpkins seeds. They named him Jack-o-Lantern!

WJ 7th Graders Thank Cellular South

West Jones 7th grade students designed Thank You Cards for employees of Cellular South for their outstanding and positive coverage of West Jones over the past several weeks in the Head to Head series and the Y'all vs Us live broadcast of the game against Wayne County. Seventh grade Social Studies teacher, Melissa Thrash, allowed her students to watch one of the Head to Head episodes where coaches and players from West Jones and Wayne County were featured explaining that college recruiters not only focus on potential college athletes' athletic ability, but also their grade point average, ACT score, and good character. West Jones Middle and High School says thank you for all you have done Cellular South!

Pictured:
Back (l-r) G. French, T. West, T. Anderson, S. Matthews, B. McCulloch, J. Whitlock, D. Smith
Middle (l-r) T. Evans, G. Dillard, B. Welborn, P. Prine, J. Pitts
Front (l-r) B. Bynum, C. Bynum, H. Nicholson, A. Dearman, A. Waite, E. Murrieta

HERRINGTON NAMED SOUTH JONES SERTOMA CLUB STUDENT OF MONTH

South Jones High School junior Kellie Herrington has been named Sertoma Club Student of the Month for October. She is pictured at the luncheon with her faculty honoree Sarah Wansley.

ELLISVILLE – South Jones High School junior Kellie Herrington has been named Sertoma Club Student of the Month for October by the high school faculty and administration. Herrington, the daughter of Bob and Katie Herrington of Ellisville, selected English teacher Sarah Wansley as her faculty honoree. An honor roll student, Herrington is active in Student Council and First Priority. She is also a member of the SJH Marching Band of Braves and Company show choir.

WELLNESS WALK

	Students and faculty participated in the Wellness Walk at Jones County Vocational –Technical Center lead by Allied Health instructor Vickie
Barnett. The students walked multiple times around campus, and received a fruit treat at the conclusion of the walk. The Wellness Walk promoted fitness and good nutritional habits to all students and faculty.

WJE Is Moovin' and Groovin'

The staff and student body of West Jones Elementry School are Moovin' and Groovin' for wellness. On Wednesday, October 14th, all 1,015 students and over 100 faculity and staff had a fitness parade led by the West Jones Drum Corp, the Drill Team, and the Chick-Fil-A Cow. The students made posters and showed off their fitness as they encouraged each other and the community to "Moove and Groove" for fitness. This music video was a project of the Student Health Council to promote wellness in their school. Click here to view the music video.

WJHS Speech--Technology Inventions
Students in Jeanne' Rowland's Speech classes were given the challenge to design a new technological tool, create a name and slogan for their invention, and give a persuasive speech about the product. Groups held an "Invention Convention" to display their final products.
	Deer Carrier--carries any object easily through rough terrain and can be taken apart easily. (l-r) B. Stevens, E. Gieger, J. Welch
New Age Portable Microwave--used for tailgating parties, school, and when the electricity is out. Runs off batteries and will save you money. (l-r)--T. Holifield, H. Taylor, B. Welborn, C. Farris, K. Smith
The Talking Text--Reads out messages to you, you respond, and it types the message for you. (l-r) H. Todd, S. Allen, N. Luker, A. Arledge
	Hum-Er--Robotic machine that picks up and recycles material, turning the waste into fertilizer and other useful materials. (l-r) E. Dejarnett, E. Dean, C. Harris, J. Turnes, W. Hunter
The Epson 3000--portable remote that can fast forward, rewind, slow motion, and mute time. (l-r) I. Yelverton, M. Sherman, M. Strength, G. Bergin

Walkin' It Out for Diabetes

West Jones Middle School Student Council does their part to support the research in finding a cure for juvenile diabetes. The money they raised for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation was in honor of Will McCoy whose sister is a former middle school student council member and now an active member of the high school student council at West Jones. This is just one of the many service projects this group participates in to benefit their school and community.
Pictured: Karly McCoy (Receiving Check for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) and D. Martinez (Representative of West Jones Middle School Student Council)

GLAZE NAMED SOUTH JONES EXCHANGE CLUB STUDENT OF MONTH
	ELLISVILLE – South Jones senior Jonathan Glaze has been named Exchange Club Student of the Month for October by the high school faculty and administration. Glaze, the son of Bobby and Linda Glaze of Ellisville, chose his mother as his faculty honoree. Linda Glaze teaches middle school science.
A member of the Braves baseball team, Glaze is also a member of Beta Club and Key Club. In the 11th grade, he was a Sertoma Student of the Month.

NEJ Junior Beta Officers Elected

Members of the Northeast Jones Junior Beta Club recently elected officers for the 2009-2010 school year.

They are as follows:
R. West – President, M. Mills – Vice-President, R. Williams – Secretary, H. Padgett – Treasurer, S. Hinton – Reporter.

NEJ Junior Beta is sponsored by Mrs. Ann Tucker, Mrs. Karen Fitzgerald, Mrs. Frances Hill, and Mrs. Connie Wade.

Caught Being Good

North Jones Elementary honored one student per homeroom with "Breakfast with the Principals". Students in kindergarten through sixth grade were given tickets for being good, following the rules, or showing kindness to others. The homeroom teacher collected the tickets and drew the lucky winner. The drawing for breakfast will be held once a month.

Glade's "Fall Fling"

	Glade Elementary recently held thier first annual "Fall Fling". Teachers and Staff worked to make sure our students and community had an enjoyable time. There were jumps, carnival
games, a cakewalk and "Trunk or Treat". Thanks to the Glade community and Glade Workers for making this a huge success.

A Real Brave for Cowboy Day at South Jones High School

Pictured: J. deBoxtel

Week 3 High Five Winners WJMS

7th graders--D. Randal and S. Harp

EJE South Mississippi Fair Art Contest Winners

C.– Second Place – Mixed Media
M. Byrd - Third Place – Mixed Media
H. Hodge – Fifth Place – Mixed Media
N. Walley – Sixth Place – Mixed Media

Child Abuse Awareness Week

The first graders at North Jones Elementary were visited by members of the Laurel Junior Auxiliary Organization. The ladies presented the "Someone To Talk To" puppet show as part of their Child Abuse Awareness program. Members of the organization included Jane Pitts, Amy Bass, Wendy Staples and Emily Green.

WHMS High Five Students of the Week

WJMS "High Five" Students of the Week (Oct. 12-16) C. Jones and N. Le.

These students were chosen based on the "High Five" criteria:

Be Safe
Be Responsible
Be Honest
Be Respectful
Be your Best!!

West Jones Announcements

The West Jones Golf Tournament - 4 person Scramble - will be on Saturday, November 7th at Bear Creek Golf Course. Registration begins at 7:00 a.m. with free coffee and sausage biscuits. Tee time is at 8:00 a.m. Tons of prizes! For more information please call 601-319-8790.
The 2009 Beauty Revue, hosted by the West Jones Middle School Show Choir, will be held on Saturday, November 7th in the Performing Arts Center on the campus of West Jones High School. This event is open to boys and girls from Birth through 6th grade. For more information, please call 601-319-8790.

Week 2 High Five Winners WJMS

7th graders--J. Smith and C. Jones

NEJ Serteens Donate to Salvation Army

Members of the Northeast Jones Serteens recently collected clothing to be donated to the Salvation Army.

Pictured (l-r) are:
H. Murphy, M. Ulmer, A. Strickland-Serteen President, N. Smith-Serteen Secretary, M. Patel, L. Hayes, A. Green, and J. Slade.

NEJ Serteens are sponsored by Dr. Bill Myers.

NJE's October Bus Students of the Month

Ms. Webb's Desktop Publishing
	At West Jones high school, Ms. Webb's Desktop Publishing class created flyers. Students and faculty at West Jones voted for the best one based on its ability to catch the eye and be clear in purpose.
First place winner was C. Spradley, second place was H. Bynum and third place winner was L. Hosey.

Drug Free Pep Rally

NEJ band, Cheerleaders and Daddy Rah Rah came to Glade to help encourage our students to stay "Drug Free". They put on a great Pep Rally for grades 1-6. Thanks NEJ for you help!!

Welch Named NEJ's Sertoma Student of Month for October

Northeast Jones Junior K. Welch was recently selected as NEJ’s October Sertoma Student of the Month. She is the daughter of Shannon Welch of Heidelberg. She selected Mrs. Dana Knight as October Sertoma Teacher of the Month.

WyoTech Representative Visits Jones County Vo-Tech
	WyoTech representative, Angela McMillen, visited Jones County Vocational-Technical Center. She spoke to students in Auto Service Technology, Auto Collision Repair Technology, and Metal Trades classes about post-secondary educational opportunities offered at WyoTech . She discussed the requirements for students wishing to enroll at WyoTech and scholarships offered.
Programs available at the school are Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Collision/Refinishing Technology, Motorcycle Technology, Marine Technology, HVAC Technology, Plumbing Technology, Electrical Technology, and Applied Service Management.
Pictured (L to R): Auto Service Technology student M. Blackledge, WyoTech Representative Angela McMillen, Auto Collision Repair Technology student L. Sumrall.

A Look in the Mirror

WDAM TV Sportscaster Mitch Williams was invited to the Pine Belt Education Center last week through a partnership with the Laurel Junior Auxiliary and the Pine Belt Youth Coalition. Williams delivered an inspiring presentation to the alternative students on improving self-image by looking into the mirror every day and liking what they see or making necessary changes in their lifestyle so they will like themselves. He stated that physical changes might be hard to make, but behavior, choice of friends, and attitude could be changed simply by deciding to make a change and working in that direction. Students shown with Williams following the presentation are T. Dean, L. Longino, and B. Willis. Mike Moore is Principal at the Alternative School.

NEJ Middle School Class Remembers Sept. 11
	West Jones 8th grader, M. Huff, has been named Outstanding Student for the 1st 9 weeks. Huff's name was chosen from a group of students who had achieved both perfect attendance and perfect discipline for the 1st 9 week period.
He was awarded a Sony MP3 player! Congratulations!!

West Jones Receives Wellness Award

The Mississippi Alliance for School Health recently recognized West Jones Elementary for their efforts to promote fitness and good nutritional habits for all students. The school won first place in the state-wide “Wellness in My School” contest and received a $500 award and then went on to receive an additional $1,000 award to continue their efforts. Receiving the $1,000 check from Dwain Strickland, Director of Nutrition and Wellness for the Jones County Schools, are members of the school health council.

NEJ Drama Dept. Presents The Sound of Music

Northeast Jones production of The Sound of Music will be Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, October 25, 2009 at 2 p.m in the NEJ Performing Arts Center.

Pictured practicing their roles are:

(front, seated l-r) L. Hankins (Gretl), T. Bryant (Marta)
(reat, standing l-r) C. Hayes (Friedrich), B. Caraway (Liesl), K. Welch (Maria), K. Smith (Louisa), and T. Walker (Kurt)

For additional information regarding performance times and ticket prices call:
601-425-2347

Newspapers in the Classroom

Thanks to Ward’s Pharmacy in Ellisville, Mrs. Terri Mitchell’s 6th grade Language Arts class at South Jones Elementary was able to do a “grammar hunt” in the Laurel Leader Call. Using the papers donated to her class, students had to go through articles looking for strong adjectives, compound sentences, and complete subjects and predicate to complete a sentence mural for a differentiated learning classroom art project. Mrs. Mitchell’s class would like to extend a special thanks to Ward’s Pharmacy for providing newspapers for their class!

All-Star School Lunch at North Jones Elementary

North Jones Elementary participated in the National School Cafeteria Week. This year's theme "All Star School Lunch" is a slam dunk to help students learn about the importance of eating healthy and being active.

Mrs. Denise Rogers, cafeteria manager, allowed the students to vote on their favorite school lunch.

Coach Tony Johnson, physical education teacher, stressed to the students the importance of walking and exercising. The students participated in a heath walk around the school. Football players from West Jones High School and the University of Southern Mississippi talked to kids about staying healthy and fit by participating in sports, saying no to drugs and exercising on a daily basis.

Northeast Jones Middle School September 2009 Student of the Month Recipients

Congratulations to all Northeast Jones Middle School September Student of the Month recipients O. Scarbrough (7th Math), C. Cook (8th Math), S. Edwards (7th English), T. Gambrell (8th English), R. Stevens (7th Social Studies), M. Ainsworth (8th Social Studies), D. Allen (7th Science), C. Craven (8th Science), R. Dean (7th Career Discovery), M. Doyle (8th Computer Discovery), S. Wilkinson (7th Reading), and E. Everett (Fine Arts.) Students of the month are selected by the NEJ Middle School Faculty. Selection criteria include, but are not limited to, good citizenship, character, attendance, academic improvement, and attitude. Mrs. Marie Keys, NEJ Middle School Principal presented each student of the month with a certificate and t-shirt.

"High Five"
	Ms. Doreen Hill, West Jones Middle School Counselor, assisted by the Middle School Peer Council spoke to the 7th and 8th graders about the problem of bullying. A video was shown to the classes and the Peer Council did skits showing the right and wrong ways to approach situations. Ms. Hill introduced the "High Five" plan which encourages good behavior. Students caught doing the "right thing" will be given a high five ticket.
The "High Five" plan consists of :
1) Be safe 2) Be Responsible 3) Be Respectful 4) Be Honest 5) Be your Best!!
Tickets will be placed in a box for a weekly drawing.

Caught You "Read" Handed
	Mr. Wade Clark, West Jones Middle School principal, recently addressed the 7th and 8th graders about the implementation of a new reading program called "Caught You 'Read' Handed." This program encourages students to read during every spare minute. Students will get points for reading and their names will go into a box for a drawing.
Periodically, Mr. Clark will push a wheelbarrow full of candy through the halls and if a student is "caught" reading, they will be rewarded with a five minute candy celebration!!

SOUTH JONES STUDENTS TAKE SOCIAL STUDIES INTO ART CLASS

After studying Mexico in their social studies class, South Jones art students made giant Mexican folk paintings in their art class under the direction of teacher Dwelia Haas. The huge banner paintings were made with bright colors of acrylic paint on brown butcher paper to imitate Mexican folk paintings on amate paper. Haas said she tries whenever possible to develop art projects that parallel and enhance what the students are learning in their other classes. Some of the students who worked on the project

Pictured left to right, are:
B. Smith, L. Mills, S. Lackey and Y. Perdoma.

Family Reading Night @ NJE

North Jones Elementary held its first Family Reading Night of the year. Excitement filled the air as families came together to read and share their favorite books. The next Family Reading Night will be held October 27.

Indian Cultures

The third grade students at North Jones Elementary recently studied about different Indian Cultures. Each student had the choice of creating either a tepee, Kachina mask, God's Eye, or a rattle from various Indian cultures. The students had to explain to the class how it affected each culture and what it was used for. They also had to create a flow map to explain the process of making their project.

Welch Named NEJ's Sertoma Student of Month for October
	Northeast Jones Junior K. Welch was recently selected as NEJ’s October Sertoma Student of the Month. She is the daughter of Shannon Welch of Heidelberg. She selected Mrs. Dana Knight as October Sertoma Teacher of the Month.

Cook Named October Exchange Club Youth of the Month
	Northeast Jones Senior Tyler Cook was named NEJ’s Exchange Club Youth of the Month for October. Tyler is the son of Randy and Angela Cook of Glade. He selected Mrs. Cindy Rice as October Exchange Club Teacher of the Month.

SJH Featured Artist of the Week
	L. Shoemake lives in the Ovett Community, south of Ellisville. She is in the tenth grade and is a second year art student in the South Jones High School Art program. She aspires to become an equine artist. Equine art deals with the subject of horses. She has researched and studied the work of Michelle McCullagh, a professional equine artist living and working in Keinton Mandeville, Somerset, in the United Kingdom. She has corresponded with McCullagh via E-mail and has gained from the artist information about the equine art style. She has worked hard to start a portfolio of her work, hoping to be accepted in an art school when she graduates form high school. Below are examples of her art.

Class Helping Servicemen Abroad

Pictured are some of her students and donations presented.

Mrs. April Miller’s classes generously donate needed items to the U.S. servicemen abroad. Some of the items that the students purchased to be sent to the military are snacks, personal hygiene products, pens and paper, batteries, puzzles, games, bandages, fly swatters, bug repellant, music CDs, shoe insoles, toys for children of other countries, and many other items.

WJMS Gifted Studies
	Seventh graders in Sally Wooten's Gifted Studies class recently studied a unit on Medieval times. To culminate their studies, each student was asked to create a project or product of the specific era.
Pictured is John Colton Landrum demonstrating the catapult he built.

NEJ Announces 1st 9 Weeks Honor Roll

7th Grade - All A’s

Mallorie K. Beech, Cheyanne M. Boyd, James N. Breland, Krystal A. Brown, Kamron C. Carter, Reggio K. Dean, Shelby M. Edwards, Shelby V. Hall, Haley B. Hill, Hayward T. Hodge, Joshua D. Knight, Amie L. McCormick, Shelby L. Murphy, Emilee M. Norwood, Peyton Ramsey, April M. Rudolph, Obrie D. Scarbrough, Caleb D. Schubert, Jade M. Walley, Caytee L. Walters.

7th Grade - A’s & B’s

D’Marco I. Allen, Alexis C. Andrews, Kayte A. Avera, Jeremiah C. Barry, Nicholas R. B aucum, Kaitlyn N. Bradshaw, Madison L. Brownlee, Ashley Clark, Austin D. Clark, Michaelah K. Clark, Tamarra P. Cooley, Callie A. Davis, Michael C. Ellis, Alex S. Ellzey, Hannah G. Ewing, Leighton N. Griffin, Christopher D. Jones, Shalea R. Jones, Morgan R. Kitchens, Austin C. Malone, Donald W. Malson, Christina R. McCann, Jtease A. McCray, Coleman R. Mozingo, Lydia N. Myers, Katlyn D. Myrick, Soloman S. Page, Audrianna T. Paige, Shaquetta S. Parker, Gabrielle L. Pitre, Dilan D. Pryor, Kristen Roberson, Kasey C. Shepherd, Hunter D. Smith, Kristina D. Smith, Alexis H. Starcher, Colby B. Stringfellow, Wyatt A. Sumrall, Michael Z. Taylor, Ford T. Turner, Mason A. Waters, Sara K. Wilkinson, John T. Wright.

8th Grade – All A’s

Madison G. Ainsworth, James B. Barnett, Steven A. Beasley, Emily K. Bedwell, Jana L. Cooley, Bobbie Jo Davis, Clinton D. Dickerson, Brody D. Doggett, David T. Evans, Emmarisa Z. Everett, Kasie N. Hodge, Kyle A. Keller, Cody R. Patrick, Justin M. Phillips, Chanler D. Pickering, Ricky J. Smith, Josh B. Sullivan, Gabriella M. Watson, Destiny H. Welborn, Allison L. Wigley, Brooke M. Willis, Emily N. Wright.

8th Grade – A’s & B’s

Erica F. Adams, Neshoba S. Alexander, Morgan P. Alizzi, Sidney M. Brannon, John A. Broadhead, Shelby B. Caraway, Austin S. Cartwright, Stormy, N. Clark, Maegan M. Collier, Casey G. Cook, Colby S. Cooley, Troy J. Cooley, Ashton D. Cotton, Cheyanne I. Craven, Tyler j. Dalrymple, Isaac A. DeFrance, Nachelle N. DeHaan, Shelby K. Dickerson, Dustin W. Dyer, Casey C. Ellzey, Lyndsi D. Ewing, Javarian R. Fenderson, Taylor D. Gambrell, Destin E. Gooch, Breanna N. Gregory, Hannah G. Hankins, Zadorius M. Hardy, Victoria R. Hodge, Zachary M. Holifield, Daniel H. Hudson, Cynthia L. Hutto, Careh A. Ishee, Patrick G. James, Jaylon L. Keys, Alexis M. King, Patrick A. King, Brittany K. Kitchens, Jonathan R. Ladner, Justin W. Landrum, Alex W. Lindsey, Megan E. Livingston, Bradley A. Lovett, Jakob A. Martinez, Dennerick J. McGill, Mikala B. McLaurin, Patrick D. McNeill, Kiara N. Merrill, Keith W. Moffett, Chelsea Moss, Robert A. Musgrove, Rebekah L. Page, Morgan G. Pipkins, Kalee L. Poore, Ryan C. Pope, Devin C. Pruitt, Laykin Register, Brooke A. Riley, Patience B. Rizzo, Octavia S. Roberts, Cindy M. Rogers, Deric T. Sanders, Addison M. Sanford, Herbert A. Sasser, Alexa J. Sellers, Jayda D. Simmons, Ashley B. Smith, Shelby L. Smith, Joshua D. Starcher, Lorynzia Corde’G. Stevens, Timothy B. Stokes, Kailey TenEyck, Trevor A. Thorla, Jordan M. Touchstone, Jacob M. Toombs, Emily V. Turner, Bordy D. Varnell, Breanna R. Waller, Brittany N. Walters, Anthony D. Welch, Shelby L. Yarber.

9th Grade – All A’s

Jeremy A. Clanton, Taylor C. Coats, James J. Culpepper, Lauryn E. Easley, Sarah J. Hinton, Kaitlin E. Johnson, Katie M. King, Christopher J. Knight, Amber L. McCormick, Deana L. Nichols, Aubrey S. Nickey, Hope A. Padgett, Emily T. Parker, Kadie N. Parker, Sunny N. Patel, Harley D. Perdue, Chelsea Roberson, Elizabeth L. Simmons, Madelyn S. Smith, Paisley R. Walters, Rachel A. West, Ryce N. Williams, Hannah R. Wimberly.

9th Grade – A’s & B’s

Cambrean L. Alex, Colon A. Avera, Jamie A. Baucum, Jared W. Blackledge, Brittany P. Brewer, Kendrick A. Brown, Brooklynn R. Brownell, Blake A. Byrd, Dallas J. Carter, Anthony K. Craft, Kameron Crumbly, Alexis R. Davis, Shaniqual B. Davis, Thomas M. Davis, Zachary C. Eddy, Ronald A. Fitzgerald, Samantha A. Foreman, Lane G. Hamil, Anquetta W. Hayes, Jason W. Herr, Laken Jennings, Dustin R. Jobin, Archana S. Jordan, Kegan B. Kelley, Larry W. Landrum, Brittany N. Lowery, Hannah K. Manning, Katy N. Mattison, Marley R. Mills, Cody C. Mosley, James A. Parker, Cole W. Pitts, Katy N. Pitts, William D. Sellers, Gabrielle L. Shaw, Summer C. Stringer, Rachel N. Taylor, Daniel T. Thomasson, Phebe A. Tisdale, Haley E. Walters, Ronald E. Warbington, Joseph M. Watson, Austin T. White.

10th Grade – All A’s

Brian A. Bohannon, Taylor A. Byrd, William H. Clarke, Matthew R. Davis, Amber R. Green, Daniel E. Haas, Mattius D. Harvey, Allen G. Holifield, Tamara K. Hullings, Jacob S. Livingston, Hannah M. Lopez, Linda O. Page, Marisa R. Rushton, Haley N. Walters, Shelby M. Malters, Taylor P. White.

10th Grade – A’s & B’s

William T. Alexander, Samantha M. Allen, Steven M. Allen, Reshma R. Bangar, Kelli E. Barry, Brandi L. Boyd, Christa R. Boykin, Amber L. Brownlee, Ricky L. Carter, Aaron Chapman, Bethany D. Cooley, Ashleigh M. Daugherty, Kira K. Dixon, Blake T. Doggett, JaMarcus L. Ducksworth, Christopher E. Edwards, Lakin C. Ewing, Maegan R. Goldman, DaMarcus T. Hardy, Tyler S. Hearn, Amanda L. Henke, Phillip A. Herrington, Amber E. Hinton, William P. Holloway, Cory N. Kitchens, Kelsie A. Lawson, Courtney M. Manning, Ashley M. McCoy, Whitney G. McNeill, Ashli N. Meadows, Alison M. Mercer, Dana K. Padilla, Robert C. Page, Megha L. Patel, Tramarkus L. Pruitt, Brittney N. Ray, Robert B. Reynolds, April A. Rogers, Jerad A. Sellers, Jerome W. Slade, Austin C. Smith, Callie J. Smith, Kendra B. Smith, Antonio K. Stephens, Jaclyn D. Taylor, Kelsey H. Valentine, Ryan L. Walters.

11th Grade – All A’s

Thomas D. Baucum, Rebecca H. Caraway, Breonka Crosby, Ivy L. Elkins, Caitlyn M. Freeman, Andrew J. Grantham, Zachary T. Hamil, Jessica E. Heathcock, Angela B. Johnson, Abigail G. Manning, Marissa B. Manning, Kimberly D. Page, Tekeyia S. Paige, Kynsleigh A. Parnell, Sherree M. Rayner, Megan A. Robinson, Amanda N. Rodenhaver, Kevin J. Sherman, Adriann R. Shoemake, Dannya M. Spradley, Katie A. Thomas, Lea N. Tice, Ronald A. Tisdale, Bryan C. Walters, Katelyn E. Welch.

11th Grade – A’s & B’s

Dalton R. Ainsworth, Kasey N. Allen, Keidran C. Beard, Jared H. Beech, Kim Beomseok, LeighAnn B. Blackledge, Austin T. Bounds, Tracy M. Boykin, Anne C. Brewer, Leslie E. Chapman, Kerri Clark, Rana E. Cook, Lakin S. Cooley, Timothy A. Cox, Thomas L. Craft, Hayley D. Davidson, Tyler S. Doggett, Laken E. Gatlin, Dustin L. Gray, Hannah B. Haas, Stephanie M. Harrison, Anika Hellrung, Marlie V. Holifield, April N. Ishee, Houston F. Johnston, Julie Jordan, Britney Kelley, Heather E. Ladner, Larissa A. Lovette, Adam C. Martin, Katlin H. McRainey, Tayler E. Pipkins, Samantha R. Sasser, Kelsey M. Schwan, Jasmine N. Simmons, Robyn A. Simmons, Jamie R. Slade, Jasmine M. Stewart, Shawna M. Sullivan, Tykeshia N. Sullivan, Chance W. Taylor, Kaegan A. Thornhill, Jeremy B. Walters, Tera K. Walters, Colby N. West, Tyler V. West.

12th Grade – All A’s

Breanne E. Barnett, Joshua C. Blackledge, Lauren R. Bradley, Kele P. Clairmont, James T. Cook, Christina M. Dickerson, Steven S. Dickerson, Thomas M. Evans, Zachary T. Ferguson, Charletta M. Graham, Julisa D. Hales, Casey F. Hamil, Roy B. Hawthorn, Harmony R. Hill, Charles E. Kervin, Aquavia C. Keyes, Kandis O. Kitchens, Joseph T. Langely, Courtney E. Lee, Taylor May, Channing C. McCarty, Heather M. Murphy, Blake W. Phillips, Kristin L. Powell, Chloe’ V. Roberson, Ralph R. Rowell, Alison M. Rudolph, Kayla Rushton, Ashley N. Smith, Nealy E. Smith, Stephanie A. Stone, Charles G. Twillie, Michael Ulmer, Shelbi M. Waller, Mallory B. White, Andrew C. Wolff, Justin D. Yates.

12th Grade – A’s & B’s

John C. Adams, Marcus T. Anderson, Christian D. Barefoot, Alec L. Barlow, Lori R. Baucum, Brandon N. Brewster, Michael A. Buckman, Robert D. Clark, Daniel L. Cook, Kelsey Cook, Nathan W. Cook, Kayla M. Creel, Seth D. English, Darren D. Evans, Lacy M. Fitzgerald, Paula N. Floyd, Rakisha A. Guyette, Christopher B. Hancock, Lorrie E. Hayes, Janelle C. Herr, Laken Herrington, Jamie B. Hinton, Jared N. Hodge, Markas D. Holifield, Shelby L. Houston, Michael M. Johnson, Shequine L. Lampley, Blake E. McBride, James M. Mills, Gary M. Newell, Jammie V. Newell, Justin R. Noble, Morgan Pace, Bret A. Padgett, Rahkeam C. Parker, Olivia D. Plummer, Colby G. Prince, Shanequa D. Reed, Akeem R. Rich, Ashley M. Rowell, Teresa J. Scarbrough, Gerald M. Shows, Virginia M. Smith, Devin A. Thompson, Justin A. Thornton, Katherine D. Tice, Sara M. Tucker, Kody A. Walters, Twain C. Womack.

Student Council ARL Project

Community organizations are very important. Many of them depend upon help and donations from schools. The East Jones Elementary Student Council is all about showing respect, setting examples, and reaching out whenever and wherever we can. One organization we have helped is the Animal Rescue League of Laurel. Desperate animals from all over Laurel and Jones County are being cared for there. Students from EJE have donated dog and cat food to the Animal Rescue League. Whatever the need, the EJE Student Council knows what it means to lend a hand or “paw.”

PUMPKIN MATH
	Students in Ms. Linda Simpson’s fourth grade math classes at South Jones Elementary School enjoyed getting their hands messy during a math lesson on estimation and fractions. The students were given pumpkins to estimate the number of seeds in their pumpkin. After they estimated the number of seeds, the pumpkins were cut in halves and then fourths. They then estimated the number of seeds in each half and each fourth. After completing their estimations,
students got to get all messy taking the seed out of each section and counting them. Students recorded the data and later in class, presented it on bar graphs displaying their estimation and actual number of seeds. As a conclusion to this activity, the seeds were toasted and given to the students as a nutritious snack to eat and enjoy.

ADAMO NAMED SOUTH JONES SERTOMA CLUB STUDENT OF MONTH

South Jones High School junior M. Adamo has been named Sertoma Club Student of the Month for September. He is pictured at the luncheon with his faculty honoree Kellee Smith.

South Jones High School junior M. Adamo has been named Sertoma Club Student of the Month for September by the high school faculty and administration. Adamo, the son of Johnny and Marcia Adamo of the Rainey Community, selected drama instructor Kellee Smith as his faculty honoree. An honor roll student, Adamo is active in Beta Club, Spanish Club, Key Club, Student Council and drama.

SCIENCE IS FUN!
	Recently, Mr. Joe Magee from the Mississippi Natural Science Museum in Jackson presented a program to all fourth grade students at South Jones Elementary School. Mr. Magee displayed animals that are indicative of South Mississippi. After a lecture and discussion about these animals, Mr. Magee surprised the students with some live animals that are native to this area. One animal was a Yellow Saw Back Turtle that is an endangered species.
Then students went outside to participate in an activity on animal habitats. Mr. Magee’s program was an exciting way to wrap up the unit on animals. Pictured above are Mr. Joe Magee, Mrs. Linda Simpson and her fourth grade class.

SOUTH JONES BAND OF BRAVES SCORES ALL SUPERIORS AT MERIDIAN!!

The South Jones High School Marching Band of Braves scored all superior ratings for the 17th consecutive year at the Mississippi High School Activities Association Region III Marching Festival held at Meridian’s Ray Stadium Saturday. South Jones has now qualified to compete in the MHSAA Class 4A State Championships at Pearl High School on Saturday, Oct. 24. Senior band members, drum majors and percussion captains pictured with their trophies are: (Front Row) Courtney Stewart, Amber Long, Melissa Laird, Paris Leggett, Josie Pitts, Krissie Green and Jessica Davis; (Middle Row) Zane Stewart, Andrew Sanderson, Ashton Robertson, Summer Holbrook, Terra Welborn and Emily Cheeks; (Back Row) Rease Patrick, Justin Jones, Ambrianna Bridges, Kelli Robertson, Arrin Adams, John Babbidge, Jordan James, Lindsay James, Sarah Shannon, Ryan Crowe, Heather Chittenden, Jessica Carvo and Jake Davis.

MERIDIAN – For the 17th consecutive year the South Jones Marching Band of Braves scored all-superiors at the Mississippi High School Activities Association Region III Marching Festival held at Meridian’s Ray Stadium Saturday.

South Jones was the only band from Jones County to receive superior ratings from every judge in each category. Competition categories include drum major, color guard, percussion and band. Three judges score the band category.

As a result of its high marks in this competition, the Band of Braves has qualified for the MHSAA Class 4A State Marching Championships at Pearl High School Saturday, Oct. 24. Performance times will be posted at a later date.

In a tune-up for the state championship, the Band of Braves travels to Crestview (FL) High School Saturday, Oct. 17, to participate in the West Florida Marching Classic. South Jones will compete in the AAA category against bands from several states. The band will be judged and will also be rated against the other bands in its category.

“This is a very competitive competition,” said Artie Adams, SJH band director. “We have participated down there in the past and have scored all superiors, but we’ve never placed at the top of any of the categories. We are looking to change that this weekend.”

South Jones will compete at 5:20 p.m.
For more information, contact the band hall at 601-477-9308.

WJH's 2009-2010 DAR Good Citizen
`	Marleigh Ulmer was selected as West Jones High School's 2009-2010 DAR Good Citizen. DAR Good Citizens are chosen based on characteristics of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. Marleigh exhibits these attributes daily through her outstanding academic excellence, volunteerism, and community service. She is involved and dedicated to many clubs and organizations on and off the campus of West Jones. Marleigh is also a member of the show choir group "Imagination."
Upon graduation, Marleigh plans to pursue a degree in Pharmacy from the University of Mississippi. Marleigh is the daughter of Joey and Terri Ulmer of the Sharon Community.

Digital Photography Class Views Welty Exhibit

Northeast Jones High School digital photography students under the instruction of Mrs. Deborah Griffin recently visited the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art to view photographs taken by Eudora Welty. Prior to the trip, students studied Welty’s life and body of work. Many were surprised to learn that Welty worked as a photographer before becoming a prominent Mississippi author. Photographs on display at Lauren Rogers Museum are ones she took in Mississippi and in New York during the Great Depression. The exhibit also recreates Welty’s 1936 New York solo photography show. Students were able to compare and contrast the effects of the Depression on people of the era, especially African-American culture. The group also enjoyed a guided tour of the museum, viewing another traveling exhibit Carelessly Exact by Moe Brooker, a well-known African-American artist and teacher. Pictured are: (l-r) Mrs. Leighan Griffin-Middle School Media Specialist, Julian Boochie, Jonathan Bonifacino, Larissa Lovette, Diana Herrin, Tyler Nelson, Victoria Walters, Christie Dickerson, Jade Blackledge, Lorrie Hayes, Kelsey Walters, Katherine Tice, and Mrs. Deborah Griffin-Digital Photography Instructor.

PATRICK NAMED SOUTH JONES EXCHANGE CLUB STUDENT OF MONTH
	ELLISVILLE – South Jones senior Rease Patrick has been named Exchange Club Student of the Month for September by the high school faculty and administration. Patrick, the son of Howard and Rebecca Patrick of Ellisville, chose Amy Marshall as his faculty honoree. Now serving as the 11th and 12th grade guidance counselor, Marshall was Patrick’s Biology I teacher. A trombone player in the award-winning South Jones High School band, Patrick is a
member of Student Council, Beta Club and Spanish Club. He is an honor roll student and was voted Most Likely to Succeed by the SJH Senior Class. As a tenth grader, he represented South Jones at Mississipp’s Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Conference. In the 11th grade, Patrick was a Sertoma Student of the Month. He was also received the Johnny Bryant Spirit of South Jones award.

Peer Councils Visit West Jones and North Jones Elementary

The West Jones Middle and High School Peer Councils recently visited West Jones and North Jones Elementary schools-kindergarten through six grades educating the students on personal hygiene. The Peer Councils felt that with the swine flu season here and more flu to come that they could help the elementary schools ward off germs by teaching personal hygiene. The Peer Councils have been trained in personal hygiene and used the curriculum provided by the Red Cross –Scrubby Bears to teach this.

Students taught the lower elementary classes the correct way to wash their hands using a teddy bear story and song. They were taught the correct way, according to the Mississippi Department of Health, to cough and sneeze in the crook of their arm covering their cough or sneeze; rather than in their hands. They were taught to pick up used tissues with tongs or another object; rather than with their bare hands.

The upper elementary were taught about personal hygiene and cleanliness as well as how to recognize infections in the body with an emphasis on Staph. The Peer Council shared with the elementary students how to care for minor wounds and what to do if you suspect that you have Staph. Peer Council students used teaching materials with the word Staph spelled phonetically (staff) so that the students would remember how to pronounce it. Students in the upper elementary were taught precautions of sharing personal items such as caps, combs, etc. They were taught how to recognize lice in their hair and the solution to rid it.

Sponsors are Sheila Benson-HS, Cindy Williamson-MS and Charlene Hill-school nurse. Mrs. Teresa Harrison, Jones County School District Safe and Drug Free Schools Coordinator and Mrs. Sylvia Ellis, Parents for Drug Free Youth assisted with this program.

(Additional photos below.)

WJMS Counselor Named School Counselor of the Year

West Jones High School’s administration is honored to announce that Ms. Doreen Hill, WJ Middle School Counselor, has been selected as the 2009 School Counselor of the Year by the Pinebelt Counselor’s Association. Ms. Hill has worked for the Jones County School District for 21 years as a psychometrist and school counselor and has been at West Jones for the past five years. She received her Masters from William Carey College and her Specialist from Mississippi State. She also holds National Board Certification in Counseling, as well as being a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC. Wade Clark, WJ Middle School Principal remarks, “We’re very fortunate to have someone who cares for our children the way Ms. Hill does. She is a great asset to our school.” Congratulations, Ms. Hill.

NEJ Sound of Music Additional Performance Dates

Due to a large number of reservations for our Wednesday and Thursday morning student performances, we are anticipating those days will be sold out. Therefore, we are pleased to announce we have added a third morning student performance on Friday, October 23. If you are interested in attending a student performance, please contact Lacy Hinton as soon as possible to reserve your seats. The revised performance schedule is as follows:

The Sound of Music
Student Performances
Wednesday October 21
Thursday October 22
Friday October 23

Tickets $5

Public Performances
October 24 7:00 p.m.
October 25 2:00 p.m.

Tickets $5 Student/Child
$10 Adult

For more information contact Lacy Hinton at lehinton@jones.k12.ms.us or through the school office at (601)425-2347

WJMS Career Discovery--Career in Poutlry

Bob Billingsley from Sanderson Farms spoke to Career Discovery classes about the variety of jobs associated with the poultry business, including nurses, nutritionalist, veterinarians, lawyers, accountants, environmental engineers, mechanics, and truck drivers. He encouraged the students to "find what you dearly love and make that your career." He also stressed the importance of "learning everything you can while in 7th grade." Career Discovery teachers are Cynthia Williamson and Sharon Turner.

Pictured is Bob Billingsley with 7th grade Career Discovery students.

WJH Reveals Its Homecoming Court

WJH Homecoming Court

Front:
Football Maid M. Ulmer, Senior Maid T. McGee, Student Body Maid A. Crosby, Homecoming Queen K. Pitts, Student Body Maid H. Taylor, Senior Maid R. Jefcoat, Football Maid M. Matthews.

Back:
Freshman Maid C. Little, Sophomore Maid D. Clark, Junior Maid M. Kemp, Junior Maid J. Padgett, Sophomore Maid M. Rayner, Freshman Maid K. Bynum.

See You At The Pole North Jones Elementary

North Jones Elementary school held their annual "See You At The Pole" ceremony on September 22. Students and teachers gathered around the American flag to pray for their school, community and country. The music was led by Patrick Lee Scoggins. Prayers and words of encouragement were led by Scott Stringer, Minister of students at First Baptist Church of Sharon, and Matthew Blankenship, Minister of students at Highland Baptist Church. Wednesday's "See You At The Pole" marked 20 years since the student initiated and student-led movement started in Texas in 1990.

NEJ Tigers Select Homecoming Royalty

Northeast Jones Tigers recently elected members of the 2009 Tiger Homecoming Court.

Members of the court are as follows:

2009 Homecoming Queen - L. Bradley
Maids of Honor - J. Hinton and T. Lindsey
Student Body Maids - L. Herrington and A. Strickland
Tiger Maid - M. Wheaton
FFA Sweetheart - S. Walters
Football Maids - M. Pace and O. Plummer
Senior Maid - B. Benson
Junior Maid - H. Davidson
Sophomore Maid - K. Barlow
Freshman Maid - R. Taylor
8th Grade Maid - B. Davis
7th Grade Maid - M. Mansell

The Tigers will celebrate Homecoming on October 9, 2009 in Tiger Stadium. The Homecoming Parade will begin at 5:35 p.m. followed by the Homecoming Ceremony. The game against West Lauderdale will begin at 7:00 p.m. Please join the NEJ Tigers as they “Put On The Ritz” in the Jungle to celebrate Homecoming 2009!

EJE Third Grade Starts the Year wih a Bang!

Students in Mrs. Pam Walters' 3rd grade class at East Jones Elementary School got to pop balloons on the first day of school. It was their WOW! They tried to guess the skill they would be learning by reading clues taped to the outside of the balloon. Once they guessed, they popped the balloon. The answer was inside the balloon. If they were correct they could eat their Smarties candy that was attached to the bottom of the balloon because they are so smart. If they missed they could still eat their candy to get smarter! Everyone enjoyed the activity and found out what they would be learning this school year. Everyone was so smart and knew the answers.

Learning About the Cattle Industry

President of the Mississippi Cattleman's Association, Ronnie Herrington, spoke to Career Discovery students on Sept. 23rd. He talked about the opportunities for young people to get involved in 4-H and FFA. He emphasized that these clubs promote responsibility, good work ethics, and provide many scholarships to colleges and universities.

Pictured is Ronnie Herrington.

NEJ High School Students of the Month
Northeast Jones High School faculty is proud to announce the selection of high school Students of the Month for August and September. August Students of the Month are:
Seniors
K. Dempster	R. Parker
Juniors
B. Crosby	K. Harper
Sophomores
C. Smith	K. Shepherd
Freshmen
M. Mills	D. Carter
September Students of the Month are:
Seniors
J. Blackledge	L. Jones
Juniors
B. Johnson	L. Craft
Sophomores
A. Green	R. Davis
Freshmen
A. Rogers	C. Mosley

Career Discovery Learns about Veterinarians

Dr. Harlon Mathews of Briarwood Animal Clinic visited Career Discovery classes at WJMS to explain the route to becoming a veterinarian. He also hosted a question/answer session about animal care. Career Discovery teachers are Cynthia Williamson and Sharon Turner.

Pictured is Dr. Mathews and the Career Discovery students.

2009-2010 West Jones High School Class Officers and Class Favorites

7th Grade

Front (l-r)
J. Waite-Favorite; B. Sims-Vice President; R. Ishee-President and Favorite
Back (l-r)
C. Shoemake-Favorite; D. Clark-Favorite; H. Mauldin-Reporter; K. Taylor-Secretary; S. Terry-Treasurer

8th Grade

Front (l-r)
C. Johnson-Favorite; J. Carter-President and Favorite
Back (l-r)
T. Clark-Secretary; T. Gieger-Treasurer; H. Eady-Favorite; M. Smith-Favorite; K. Parker-Vice President; A. Ivy-Reporter

Class Officers and Favorites

9th Grade

Front (l-r)
R. Ducksworth-Favorite; D. Agee-Vice President and Favorite
Back (l-r)
T. Herring-Favorite; K. Robison-Treasurer; K. McCoy-President; C. Little-Secretary; O. Chatham-Reporter and Favorite

10th Grade

Front (l-r)
S. Taylor-Favorite; S. McDonald-Favorite
Back (l-r)
H. Graves-Secretary; S. Coleman-President; S. Allen-Vice President; P. Miller-Favorite; K. Speed-Treasurer; L. Ishee-Reporter; K. Rodriguez-Favorite

11th Grade

Front (l-r)
E. Gieger-Favorite; B. Houston-President; A. Williams-Favorite
Back (l-r)
S. Musgrove-Reporter and Favorite; K. Simpson-Favorite; H. Jefcoat-Treasurer; M. Wallace-Vice President; J. Padgett-Secretary

12th Grade

Front (l-r)
O. Terry-Vice President; Secretary-H. Taylor; W. Graves-President;
A.Dennis-Treasurer; C. Coleman-Reporter

NEJ Middle School Class Remembers Sept. 11

On Friday, September 11, the eighth anniversary of the terrorist attacks in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington, Senior Airman Levi Burnham visited Ms. Rebecca Tisdale’s 7th grade Social Studies classes at Northeast Jones Middle School. Mr. Burnham served in Operation Iraqi Freedom at Qatar. He discussed with the class the conflicts between the United States and Iraq. He also, included a slide presentation of personal pictures he took while stationed in Qatar to the class illustrating the culture in Iraq. Students were able to examine up close a couple of things Mr. Burnham brought back home with him including a traditional Iraqi men’s head wrap and Iraqi money. Ms. Tisdale was pleased by her student’s reaction and questions. Mr. Levi Burnham lives in Jones County where he is a youth pastor and furthering his education at Jones County Junior College. Ms. Tisdale said, “I am very grateful for Mr. Burnham visiting with my students and for his outstanding service to our great country.”

WJHS Student Council Sponsors Annual Blood Drive

The West Jones High School Student Council sponsored its annual blood drive on Sept. 30 as one of many community service projects. Technicians from the United Blood Services helped faculty and students with this process. The High School Student Council is sponsored by Natalie Wedgeworth. Pictured is WJ Senior, A. J. Smith with Bernadette Amos of the United Blood Services

WJH's Digital Photography Presentations

West Jones High School business education students use technology donated by Howard Industries to give group presentations in Ms. Webb's Digital Photography class. Students put together PowerPoint presentations using photos they took to illustrate stories they wrote.

NEJ Students Use Leader-Call as Resource

Northeast Jones Freshman Accelerated English students under the instruction of Mrs. Ann Tucker selected the Laurel Leader-Call as part of their classroom resource material. When, due to current economic conditions, a sponsor could not be found to pay for the newspaper students decided to sponsor themselves! Each student contributed twenty-five cents per month to pay for weekly delivery of the newspaper. “We really enjoy the assignments using the newspaper,” commented one student. “By using the newspaper, we learn how writers use language and grammar to tell a story and capture reader’s interest.”

NEJ Serteen Officers Elected

Northeast Jones Serteen Club members recently elected officers for the 2009-2010 school year. Officers are:
A. Strickland – President, A. Keyes – Vice-President, N. Smith – Secretary, O. Plummer – Reporter, T. Paige – Sergeant at Arms.
The Serteen Club is a community service organization and is sponsored by Dr. Bill Myers and the Laurel Sertoma Club.

NEJ’s Noble and WJH's Terry Named National Merit Semifinalists

Justin Noble and Owen Terry were recently named National Merit Semifinalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Approximately 1.5 million juniors from 22,000 high schools entered the 2010 National Merit Scholarship Program. Terry and Noble will be one of 16,000 students nationwide in competition for 8,200 National Merit Scholarship totaling over $36 million.
The son of Richard and Anita Noble of the Myrick community, Justin is the oldest of four brothers. He is a senior at NEJ and a four-year member of the NEJ soccer team and Beta Club. Noble has also been a member of the Tiger Yearbook staff for four years and currently serves as Sports Editor. He is a member of the Quill and Scroll International Journalism Society and Teens Getting Involved in the Future. An active member of the NEJ drama program, Noble has a major role in the upcoming musical production of The Sound of Music! Selected for the Young Guns Leadership Program at Mississippi State University, Noble participated in the July 2009 session. He is a Mississippi Scholar and a member of the honors program at NEJ. Noble plans to attend Mississippi State University in the fall; he will major in mechanical engineering.
Owen Terry is a senior at WJH, a member of the West Jones soccer and swim team, and currently serves as president of the West Jones Beta Club, Key Club, Serteens, Mu Alpha Theta, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Teens Getting Involved for the Future. He was selected as an American Legion Boys State Delegate and received the Hugh O’Brien Leadership Award. Terry is an active member of First Baptist Church of Laurel and is a Red Cross Youth volunteer leader. He is the son of Jerry and Melissa Terry of Soso.

Tiger Pride Looks Forward to Fantastic Year
	The 46-member strong Northeast Jones Tiger Pride Marching Band has returned to campus and is hard at work preparing for a busy season under the leadership of director Michelle Graham and assistant director Walter McIntosh. During the summer all band members attended camp and participated in leadership and teamwork activities at Challenge Country. Band members and parents also worked extremely hard cleaning, organizing, and painting the band hall. Director Graham stated, “The band
is off to a great start! Everyone has a great attitude and is determined to ensure that the band grows and thrives.” During the year the Pride will participate in the West Jones Classic, MHSAA State Marching Festival, and the Chunky River Marching Classic. The show be The Doors and will include Touch Me, Light My Fire, and Love Her Madly. Band members are: Brian Doyle-Drum Major, Meagan Goldman-Flute, Breonka Crosby-Clarinet, Casey Donald-Clarinet, Katie Donald-Clarinet, Stephanie Harrison-Clarinet, Mikala McLaurin-Clarinet, Chelse Moss-Clarinet, Kennedy Sanders-Clarinet, Ronald Fitzgerald-Saxophone, Tori Hodge-Saxophone, Seth Purvis-Saxophone, Kyle Shelton-Saxophone, Kevin Sherman-Saxophone, Brittany Walters-Saxophone, Cody Bell-Trumpet, Sidney Brannon-Trumpet, Tyler Dalrymple-Trumpet, Reese Davis-Trumpet, Justin McKee-Trumpet, Sara Tucker-Trumpet, Tony Welch-Trumpet, Dustin Jobin-Trombone, Blake Phillips-Trombone, Ben Smith-Trombone, Nathan Cook-Tuba, Tyler Cook-Bass Guitar, Lacy Fitzgerald-Xylophone, Kele Clairmont-Drum Captain-Snare Drum, Gabe Field-Snare Drum, Jacob Knight-Bass Drum, Devarious Morgan-Bass Drum, Gary Newell-Tenor Drums, Tevin Newell-Bass Drum, Jon Shelton-Bass Drum, and Justin Landrum-Cymbals. The Color Guard members are: Kerri Clark, Lorrie Hayes-Captain, Sarah Hinton, Jammie Newell-Captain, Mikayla Phillips, Kayla Rushton, Teresa Scarbrough, Jamie Slade, Nealy Smith, and Rachel West.

South Jones High School News
	Bruce Strickland, Jones County Vocational Director, and Tommy Branch, supervising principal of South Jones High School, presented Linda Drennan with a plaque for her South Jones High School Cooperative Education students receiving the highest scores in the state of Mississippi on the Career Planning and Assessment System 2 (CPAS) test for the 2008-2009 school year.
This test is required of all vocational students in Mississippi, and Mrs. Drennan's students scored first out of the 68 Mississippi programs.

Northeast Jones Varsity Cheer Squad Wins Top Honors
	The Northeast Jones Varsity Cheerleaders won top honors this summer while attending NCA Summer Camp at Milsaps College in Jackson, MS. The squad won NCA’s Game Day Top Team award, the Champion Chant award, NCA’s Overall Spirit Award, the Herkie Team award, and the Technique Award. The squad also received a spirit stick each day of the camp.
Eight team members – C. Dickerson, S. Stone, C. Lee, L. Cooley, H. Davidson, L. Gatlin, H. Walters, K. Barlow – were nominated for the All-American team. Four squad members – C. Dickerson, S. Stone, H. Davidson, and L. Gatlin – were named to the NCA All-American Team. Members of the 2009-2010 Tiger Varsity Cheer Squad are: Seniors – C. Dickerson (Captain), L. Bradley (Captain, S. Stone, J. Hinton, C. Lee Juniors – L. Cooley, J. Stewart, H. Davidson, L. Gatlin, K. Parnell, C. Brewer Sophomores – H. Walters, K. Barlow, K. Barry, L. Ewing, K. Sullins, R. Bangar, L. Bush The squad is coached by Ms. Lisa Bolivar.

Hamm, Walters Win at Smith County Invitational

A. Hamm and S. Walters, members of Northeast Jones FFA, were winner at the recent Smith County Invitational Junior Livestock Show. Hamm won Champion Other Breeds Bull and Walters won Reserve Champion Brahman Influence. Walters also won First Place in showmanship. Hamm is the son of Danny and Veronica Hamm of the Powers community. Walters is the daughter of Dwayne and Ronda Walters of the Powers community. Their FFA advisors are Ken Parker and Rod Tolbert.

Site Updated: Monday, September 21, 2009

Lyon Awarded First Morris and Myrl Brown Memorial Scholarship
	Lyndie Lyon, a recent graduate of West Jones High School, was awarded the first Morris and Myrl Brown Memorial Scholarship in honor of two dedicated career educators. This scholarship was established in memory of the Browns by their children, Pam West and Dee Brown. Coach Morris Brown began his career with the Jones County School System at Shady Grove High School in 1951 and was the first head football coach at West (Northwest) Jones High School. Mrs. Brown taught mostly elementary school, mainly as a fourth grade teacher at Shady Grove. This scholarship will be awarded annually to a student with a desire to coach and teach.
Lyndie is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lynn Lyon of the Shady Grove community and is currently attending Jones County Junior College.

NEJ Student Leaders Attend MSU Young Guns Program

(front, l-r) L. Bradley, Kayla Bradley, and K. Powell (rear, l-r) M. Mills, N. Cook, and J. Noble

Five Northeast Jones senior student leaders were selected to attend the July session of Mississippi State University’s Young Guns Leadership Program. The students spend a week building leadership skills, developing communication networks, and practicing problem solving skills. An added treat for the 2010 NEJ seniors was working with Young Guns counselor Kayla Bradley, a 2006 graduate of NEJ!

Pictured are:
(front, l-r) L. Bradley, Kayla Bradley, and K. Powell
(rear, l-r) M. Mills, N. Cook, and J. Noble

West Jones Middle School Student Wins Laptop Computer
	Gilberto Rodriguez, an 8th grader at WJMS, won a laptop computer donated by Howard Industries at the Annual West Jones Open House. All parents and students in attendance were able to register for the laptop.
Congratulations, Gilberto, and thanks to Howard Industries for their support.

NEJ FFA Officers Attend Summer Leadership Camp

Sheriff Alex Hodge and Captain Jerry Hutcheson with students

The West Jones Middle and High School Peer Councils had an alcohol/drug education session with Sheriff Alex Hodge and Captain Jerry Hutcheson of the Jones County Sheriff's Department on Sept. 11, 2009. Capt. Hutcheson spoke on gateway drugs and the effects with an emphasis on alcohol. Sheriff Hodge spoke on making right choices.

Pictured with the Sheriff and Captain are the WJ Middle School Peer Council members.

Front: (l-r) M. Johnson, B. Matthews, J. Hinton, R. Ishee, C. Bassett, A. Foster, S. Terry

Middle: (l-r) M. Grafton, K. Tanner, K. Hall, A. Hill, Sheriff Hodge, G. Smith, S. Dean, S. Chisolm

Back: (l-r) M. Lunsford, T. Harden, L. East, M. Huff, Captain Hutcheson, H. Holliman

NEJ Library Home to Staples Legal Collection
	As a result of a generous donation by Representative Gary Staples, the Northeast Jones High School Media Center now proudly houses the Staples Legal Collection. Representative Staples, a dedicated advocate of education, has donated numerous volumes including a complete set of Mississippi Code 1972 – Annotated, General Laws of Mississippi from 2003 – current date, Mississippi House Journal from 2003 – current date, Mississippi Code 1972 Advance Sheets from 2003 – current date. Also included in Staples donation were LexisNexis CD-ROMS containing Mississippi Statutes Annotated, Mississippi Court Rules, Mississippi Judicial Decisions Since 1944, Mississippi Judicial Decisions Prior to 1943, and Mississippi Opinions of the Attorney General. NEJ High School Media Specialist
Rachel Jordan stated, “We cannot truly express our appreciation to Representative Staples for this donation! It is extraordinary for a Mississippi secondary school library to have such resource material available for our students, faculty, and community. It would not be possible without Representative Staples support and generosity!” “We are so grateful,” continued Jordan, “for Representative Staples and his continued support of education in Mississippi!”

Healthy Tips for Peers
	The West Jones Middle School Peer Council recently taught the necessity of hand washing and personal hygiene to fellow class members. The Peer Council will also teach these topics to students at West Jones Elementary and North Jones Elementary school later this week. Cynthia Williamson is the middle school sponsor.
Pictured are Peer Council Members (l-r) K. Tanner, S. Dean, and A. Foster teaching personal health tips to Denise Graves' Computer Discovery class.

Doyle Tiger Pride Drum Major
	B. T. Doyle II, a Northeast Jones Sophomore, has been selected as Drum Major for the Tiger Pride Marching Band. Doyle is the son of JoAnn Gordon and Brian Thomas Doyle of the Powers community. He is a 3rd year member of the Tiger Pride and plays the alto saxophone. Doyle is also a member of the NEJ Tigers Varsity Basketball team.

NEJ Middle School Nurse Receives Honor
	A. Hamm, an active member of Northeast Jones FFA, recently won several awards exhibiting livestock at the Neshoba County Fair. Hamm exhibited the Champion Simmental Bull (picture) and the Reserve Champion Overall Bull. He also received 2nd place with his Junior Yearling Heifer and 2nd place with his Junior Yearling Bull.
Hamm is the son of Danny and Veronica Hamm of the Powers community.

NEJ FFA Officers Attend Summer Leadership Camp
	T. Wagnon – NEJ FFA President, L. Herrington – Vice-President, W. Allbrook – Secretary, and S. Walters –Reporter attended Summer Leadership Camp in mid-July. Held at the MS FFA Center in Raymond, MS and attended by FFA officers and members from across Mississippi the camp is designed to teach and enhance leadership skills.
The officers were accompanied by their advisors/instructors Rod Tolbert and Ken Parker.

NEJ Junior High Cheerleaders Superior at Camp
	Northeast Jones Junior High Cheerleaders recently attended cheer camp at the University of Southern Mississippi. The squad received three Superior Ribbons for cheer and chant, a S.P.O.T. Award for displaying excellent skills in spotting and stunt technique, and a National Championship Bid. They also received a Spirit Stick each day and were the Game Day Competition Top Team.
Pictured are: (Front row, l-r) Coach Morgan Mahan, B. Hayes, H. Manning, A. McCormick, P. Walters, A. Wigley, Coach Lindsey Thatch; (Back row, l-r) B. Walters, G. Watson, S. Holloway, J. Touchstone, K. Johnson, J. Baucum, B. Brownell, A. Carson, K. Merrill.

NEJ Tigers to Host Book Signing
	Congresswoman Marsha Wedgeworth Blackburn, a 1970 honors graduate of Northeast Jones High School, returned to the ‘Jungle’ on August 27, 2009 to appear in a signing of her book Life Equity. While a student at NEJ, Marsha served as editor of the Tiger Yearbook, was elected to the Hall of Fame, was a Top Five Beauty, and served as Jones County’s Junior Miss. At Mississippi State University, she was a student leader, involved in Chi Omega sorority, an honor student, included in the MSU Hall of Fame and in Who’s Who. Marsha is “an outstanding problem solver who is blessed with the vision to see the big picture plus the patience to monitor the details through to solution and completion”. This visionary patience has enabled her to
successfully combine the roles of wife, mother, businesswoman, community volunteer, legislator and now, author. She was elected to the Tennessee State Senate in 1998, serving as the Republican Whip. In 2002, Marsha was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives representing Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, becoming the first woman in the state to win a Congressional seat in her own right.