PHS MEDIA NEWS

On February 22, the football team will be hosting a silent auction. This auction will aid the team in paying for weekly meals they have every Thursday evening and for away games. The money raised will help provide a meat, snack, dessert and a drink for 80 players, managers and coaches.

The community is being asked to help donate some items for this auction. All donors who give to this fundraiser will be recognized at the home games and meals. This contribution is extremely important to the team, and anyone interested in donating should contact Pam Minton at 812-653-7299 or Kim Satterfield at 812-653-9300 with any questions.

Donations can also be mailed to:

Paoli High School
Attn: Football Meals
510 Elm Street
Paoli IN, 47454

 

Story by Haley Owens

The Drama Department will be presenting Footloose on Thursday, March 21; Friday, March 22 and Saturday, March 23 in Ruth Uyesugi Auditorium. Meet the cast of Footloose, listed below.

Lyle: Quentin Albertson

Rusty: Ryleigh Anderson

Willard: Zane Anderson

Chuck: Scott Caruso

Wendy Jo: Angie Ceja

Urleen: Kylee Charles

Lulu: Haley Cox

Betty: Micayla Groves

Ren: Michael Hannon

Garvin: Chandler Hinton

Coach Dunbar: Gavin King

Wes: A.J. Lopez

Jeter: Adin Monroe

Ethel: Alicia Neale

Ariel: Libby Padgett

Vi: Megan Poe

Shaw: Hunter Roach

Bickle: Christian Ruth

Student, town council member: Ellie Sims

Principal Clark: Vanesa Swartz

Eleanor: Caitlyn Taylor

 

Story by Gracie Walls

April 5, the Mitchell Opera House will be hosting a live talent showcase that will, at a later date, end with a final showcase and a grand prize of $1,000. The talent show is open to any person, choir, singing group, dancer or actor over the age of twelve in Crawford, Green, Jackson, Martin, Monroe, Lawrence, Orange and Washington counties.

Though the showcase is not until April, the deadline to register to perform is March 4 by 5 p.m. All registrations must be submitted online at https://form.jotform.com/83445549319163. Applicants must send in their registration along with a video no more than two minutes long showcasing their talent. All acts in the show must be family friendly and appropriate for all ages. Acts that include water, fire, flammable liquids, open flames, a band or smoke machines are not allowed.

Eight to ten contestants will be chosen to perform. Contestants will be chosen and notified of their acceptance to perform by March 11 at 5 p.m.

 

Story by Rebekah Reeves

He is the voice people hear as they stroll through the hallways, the teacher who teaches some of the most important life lessons and the coach in the middle of the football huddle prepping a 50 player team for a Sectional win.

Jeremy Lowery has been the head football coach and JAG instructor for two years. In Lowery’s short time as head coach, he accomplished a 21-4 record and two conference wins, along with a Sectional title this past season.

On February 12, Lowery was officially hired as La Porte High School’s new head football coach and strength coach. La Porte is located in Northern Indiana and is about 35 miles from where Lowery himself graduated high school.

“This was a hard decision because I love my job at Paoli. My experience at Paoli has been incredible. The relationships built here with our students, faculty and staff members and our administration has made a lasting impression on me and my family,” said Lowery.

The news was bittersweet to hear for all who have worked with Lowery.

Athletic Director and former assistant football coach Darek Newkirk was just as thrilled to hear the news as he was saddened.

“Over the past few years, it’s been great to know and work with Coach Lowery. When he first came here, we coached offensive line together, and I learned a lot from him. These past few years, I was the athletic director when he was the coach. We had a great working relationship,” said Newkirk. “He works well with others, cares about the kids, Paoli and football. He is very passionate and is a go-getter full of energy. I will miss our conversations not only about football, but about life. I wish the very best for him at La Porte.”

Lowery’s impression on the faculty expands further to Offensive Coordinator Neil Dittmer, who coached with Lowery for eight years.

“His passion and knowledge of football has helped me grow as a coach and as a person. He truly cares about the success of each one of his players and coaches he works with and wants nothing but the best for them. I have been very lucky to have been able to coach with him,” said Dittmer.

From coaching to being a friend, Lowery always found a way to to be both to all players and coaches he encountered. Senior Tyson Lawson played for Lowery in his two years as head coach along with his years as an assistant coach.

“Coach Lowery has impacted my life both on and off the field. Not only did he help me grow as an athlete, but he also helped me grow as a person. He’s taught me so many life lessons that I’ll thankfully have for the rest of my life. Most importantly, he was a role model and someone I could come to with anything, and I thank him for that,” said Lawson.

Lowery’s last days at PHS were spent bidding farewells and thanking everyone for all the help in his years at Paoli.

“I want to thank everyone for their amazing commitment, support and love for our football program here. I will forever cherish the friendships and memories this school and community has given my family,” said Lowery. “I want everyone to rest assured that our football and JAG programs will continue go on and accomplish great things in the future. I know this because I have witnessed the drive and passion in the hearts of our students. I know we will all strive to BE OUR BEST!”

 

Story by Maggie Vincent

On Monday, February 25, the advanced manufacturing class will be heading to the Mid America Science Center and Ivy Tech in Scottsburg. The Mid American Science Center, or MASC, is designed to offer entrepreneurs, military personnel, researchers, visitors and students access to officer space and shared administrative service, along with customized labs and training facilities and advanced technology and communication systems.

“At MASC, students will be seeing advanced manufacturing labs in operation. Students will see CNC equipment that we learned about in class in operation as well as welding labs, electricity and mechatronics labs,” said advanced manufacturing teacher Jason Goodman.

Goodman was able to offer this field trip to his students through a company called Conexus, which partners with many advanced manufacturing industries.

“Conexus introduced us to the Mid America Science Center and invited us to tour the facility to help students gain more of a positive connection between school and advanced manufacturing as a career,” said Goodman.

Goodman motivates students to take the course, as it is possible to get up to fifteen free college credits from the class, and if a student chooses to go into that field, they can earn over $45,000 per year.

Goodman hopes the field trip will encourage students to choose a career in advanced manufacturing, as they will be meeting with many professionals who are already in that field.

“Students will have the opportunity to see some real-world applications of the curriculum material we are learning about in class. Students will also be meeting with advanced manufacturing industry professionals and learning about careers, post secondary education, salaries and job responsibilities,” said Goodman.

 

Story by Rebekah Reeves

On April 13, 2019, the HeARTland Hustle will be sponsoring the first annual Space Race, a space-themed 5K run and walk in honor of Paoli native Margaret Hamilton, who wrote the code for the Apollo program. The walk will take place at Maria Radcliffe Park. Art from local artists, youth groups, studios and schools will be displayed through the trail.

The run will take place at 9 a.m. Cost is $25 for adults and $20 for minors. However, the price will jump to $35 the day of the race. All proceeds with benefit the Let Music Speak organization and the Black Vulture Project.

Post-race activities include a health fair in the park accompanied by live music.

Registering online is available at www.letmusicspeak.org/heartlandhustle.

 

Story by Rebekah Reeves and Chandler Hinton

On February 2, the choir traveled to Bloomington North High School for their district’s Solo and Ensemble. This is an event in which students perform a prepared piece in front of judges and then receive a rating based on their performance. The eleven students from Paoli who attended the event include seventh grader Braydon Crowder; eighth graders Gabby Brown, Mia Stroud and Ryleigh Anderson; freshman Jozalyn Kempf; sophomores Christian Ruth, Chandler Hinton and Libby Padgett; juniors Megan Poe and Summer Ford and senior Jillian Keen.        

In order to move on to State Solo and Ensemble, students must first perform a Group 1 piece, which is the most difficult level of music, and receive a gold rating. All four of the Group 1 solos, performed by Anderson, Padgett, Keen and Poe, received gold. The Group 1 quartet with Keen, Padgett, Poe and Hinton also received a gold rating. Due to their success, they will be able to move on to the state competition.

“The weekend was proof that hard work and dedication pay off. Every student put forth their best effort, and they all did very well. I am proud of each and every one of them,” said choir teacher BJ Crowder.

 

Story by Michael Hannon

PACT is a program at PHS that many people are unfamiliar with. However, this service provided by the school is a great tool for junior high students to take advantage of. PACT is a youth service program in each Orange County school that works primarily with junior high students helping with academics, behavior and social skills. PACT is involved with several programs to benefit the school and the community. The program provides study tables in the PACT classroom, clothing throughout the school day and individual work with families of students. PACT also organizes Angel Tree during the holiday season and helps raise awareness for events such as Denim Day, sexual assault and dating violence.

PACT gained a new supervisor in January, Krisandra Ruggirello. Ruggirello has worked in the PACT area for a little while, but being in the Paoli atmosphere has only made it better for her own personal reasons.

“I have been working with PACT for over a year now. Before starting at PHS, I worked with PACT at Springs Valley Jr. Sr. High School; I graduated from PHS, so I am very excited to be back to my roots! I graduated from USI with a Bachelors degree in Social Work and completed my internship in Panama City, FL at Panama City Institute,” said Ruggirello.

At PCMI, Ruggirello worked hand-in-hand with the Department of Juvenile Justice to provide services to teenagers on probation in a marine-based alternative school. The atmosphere and experiences Ruggirello was exposed to at PCMI are different compared to PHS; however, she is more than excited to be present at a more familiar place where she was raised.

“I am more than happy to help any students here at PHS. I’m an open book and love being able to help any way I can. I look forward to working with students and staff here,” said Ruggirello.

 

Story by Jace Ingle

Superintendent Greg Walker has recently proposed a new program to support students who struggle with the traditional high school experience. Students struggle for reasons which vary from person to person, but each of them needs a little help to be able to reach the goal of graduating. Walker has recognized this in the past and put a solution into place that would make it easier for these kids to make it to the end of senior year.

“I started a program at Brownstown that is currently in its first year and is having success,” said Walker.

This program is an alternative education path that Walker is planning to install at Paoli for the 2019-2020 school year. His previous experience and positive results have left him excited about the help a program like this will offer Paoli students who have obstacles preventing them from having a standard high school career. Walker believes this could give them the push they need to earn their diploma.

“Many of our students are prevented from graduating from high school due to barriers in life that are not of their control,” said Walker.

He has spoken with PACT, and they have agreed that his proposal is a good idea. They are interested in partnering with Walker on the program he is hoping to establish.

Alternative education is for those who cannot do what a typical high school student can due to certain circumstances. Walker is sympathetic to these hurdles students have to conquer and knows this program will be of great benefit to the ones who meet the criteria necessary to participate in alternative education.

There are five situations the state approves for students to take the alternate schooling route. The first is if a student is intending to withdraw or has already withdrawn prior to graduation, followed by a student who has failed to meet academic requirements and would learn better in a manner other than that of a traditional high school. The third is if the student is a parent or is going to become one and does not have the ability to be present at school as a normal student could. Next, is if the student is employed and must work during school hours in order to support themselves. The final basis upon which a student can use alternative education is if they are disruptive.

“I feel that it is important for the school corporation to try to eliminate as many of those barriers as possible to allow those students an opportunity to graduate,” said Walker.

By creating this program and providing a way for struggling students to still check the boxes necessary for graduation, Walker will be making PHS a more accepting environment and success-promoting school.

 

Story by Masden Embry

Superintendent Greg Walker is moving forward with new projects in the high school. There will be new HVAC systems and roofing, among other projects.

“In my short time here, HVAC at both buildings and the roof at the elementary have been identified as needs that need to be addressed. We will look at the funds we have available and then prioritize our needs in order to address the most significant first,” said Walker.

Later in the month, the School Board will be hearing from PHS’s bond broker by holding a meeting, where the School Board will figure out how much money we will have. The School Board will also speak with a construction company to see what problems they have identified.

“We are in the very early stages of looking at future projects at this time. The school corporation has some debt being paid off in 2020,” said Walker.

 

Story by Faith Wilder

A recent decision will cause changes to PHS’s English department as early as next school year. Principal Chad Johnson, Guidance Counselor Brandi Kerley and English teachers have recently mentioned bringing in more English class options for students.

As of right now, students are required to pass the ISTEP in order to graduate, but that is set to change starting next year. The Indiana Department of Education will be changing the test needed to graduate; however, it has not yet been decided what that test will be.

Because of this major change, the conversation of having a larger variety of classes was brought up in regards to the large amount of juniors and seniors who are not able to pass the ISTEP.

“We have a large population of kids who need to pass this test in order to get their diploma, and they’re not getting something in a regular English class. We’ve just got to do something to get these kids to pass,” said English teacher Carol Fullington.

These discussions have led to the addition of three classes for incoming juniors and seniors: College and Career Readiness Bridge, Etymology and Dramatic Literature.

An etymology class, or a vocabulary class that also studies the origin of words, would particularly help with students wanting to get better scores on standardized tests. The class meets state standards, so it would help a student boost their scores without having to take an AP class.

Dramatic Literature will be a replacement of Theater II. Students can take Theater I as a fine art credit and then take Dramatic Literature as an English credit. Having these different courses fits the wants and needs of different types of students. Those who want to do well on standardized tests, those who would rather take a class aimed around the arts and those in search of a class to get credits and diploma requirements.

“Right now, we’re kind of getting a feel to see what kids are interested in and see what we can do to fill their independent needs,” said Fullington.

There is not a set plan of which teachers will be teaching these classes yet. Johnson and Superintendent Greg Walker would like to get some numbers of how many students want to take these classes before making those decisions.

 

Story by Sara Kesterson

This year, English teacher Tammy Noble and her students have been given the opportunity to go on a field trip to see the play The Diary of Anne Frank at the Indiana Repertory Theatre in Indianapolis. They plan on leaving Wednesday, February 13 at 7:15 a.m. The actual play will begin at 10 a.m.

“The play gives my students an opportunity to see and enjoy a live performance of a play. They get to see the literature we have been studying ‘come alive,’” said Noble.

After the play, the students will eat at Golden Corral for lunch. The group will return to the school around 5 p.m.

“I wrote a grant through the theatre for half price tickets for students and a Target grant to pay for our meals at Golden Corral. The entire day will only cost each student $5,” said Noble.

 

Story by Ashlyn Bonta

Superintendent Greg Walker talked to the NHS students on Wednesday, January 16 at an NHS meeting. Walker was asking for feedback from these students on how to improve our school. NHS Sponsor Melissa Higgins, NHS President Nick Douthitt and NHS Vice President EB Kerby appreciated the administration asking for the student body’s point of view.

“I really appreciated Mr. Walker taking the time to hear from the students. It is nice to have a superintendent that is truly concerned about making PHS a better place and wants to give everyone a chance to be heard,” said Kerby.

Higgins, Douthitt and Kerby were pleased with the discussion at the meeting.

“The students that spoke had good comments. The students have a different perspective on things here at school. I was kind of surprised by some of the things they said but pleasantly surprised. It was also good to hear that students see some of the same issues and problems the staff sees,” said Higgins.

Higgins, Douthitt and Kerby all are hoping this event will make a difference in our school.

‘I think our opinions will be taken into consideration but may not have a direct impact on future decisions,” said Douthitt.

 

Story by Faith Wilder

With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, PHS wants to draw attention to their policy regarding bringing in gifts or having them sent to the school.

“No balloons are allowed in the building, and all gifts have to be sent in by noon each day,” said Secretary Barb Grabner.

On Valentine’s Day, students receiving gifts will get a pink slip from the office at some point throughout the day. Then, according to what the slip says, students will either get called out of class during seventh period or they will be asked to pick them up as they leave the building. Any clubs that are selling items for Valentine’s Day are also being asked to distribute their items directly to students instead of giving them to the front office.

 

Story by Michael Hannon

With every day that passes, graduation becomes closer and closer. For seniors at PHS, that means it is preparation time. All seniors need to turn in five photos for the senior tribute video. The tribute video will be played at graduation and will be for sale afterwards for $20.

“I need the photos before we go on spring break to make sure the tribute will be done on time,” said senior Madison Collins, who is making the video.

The photos can be of anything you would like, but it is required that you be in the photo. Photos can be turned in as physical copies or attached and sent in as an email. Photos are to be turned in to Collins or to media teacher Heather Nichols.

 

Story by Kaden Lewellyn

Paoli Community School Corporation will be holding a School Board meeting starting at 6 p.m. on Monday, February 11 in the Conference Room located in the Superintendent’s Office.

The meeting will start with the Executive Session, followed by the Regular Session, which will start at 6:30 p.m. or at the conclusion of the previous session.

At the last school board meeting, there was a first reading of the new Athletic Council Policy. Now, the board will consider adopting the policy and also consider appointing a School Board member to the Athletic Council.

The School Board will also consider purchasing the Newsela trial subscription at a cost of $2,000 to be paid from the Casino Fund. Newsela is an online program that has current event reports and articles that are written at varying levels.

“If one student is on an eighth grade reading level, and another student in that class is at a twelfth grade level, they can still read the same story. The subject areas cover mostly social studies type of materials, but it does cover all subject areas. I think this will be a great resource for our teachers to be able to assign reading texts and know that students will have more of a chance to comprehend the information and use it in class,” said Principal Chad Johnson.

Lastly, the School Board will discuss providing a $500 match with the PTO to purchase another RealCare Baby to be used in the child development and parenting class.

 

Story by Gracie Walls

Clubs are a large part of Paoli High School. They provide the opportunity for students to get involved in something other than sports. Having clubs is a good way to include a variety of students in school activities. PHS and the staff would like to recognize the clubs and club members for their efforts in the yearbook. Every year, there is a club picture day held to aid that goal.

Club picture day will be held Thursday, February 7. Throughout the first half of the day, pictures will be taken between period one and three.

During first period Robotics Club, Orange County Youth Council, HOSA, FCA, Media and Supermileage will be photographed during first period.

NHS, NJHS, FCCLA, Sewing, Academic Team, Science Research, Junior High Science and Junior High Spell Bowl will be photographed during second period.

Lastly, during third period, Junior High and High School Choir, Junior High Band, Service Learning and Junior High Academic Team will be photographed.

Stay tuned to the announcements on Thursday to know when each club will get called out for pictures.

 

Story by Corinne Magner

As a fundraiser, the football team will be selling pork dinner tickets again this year. They are available for purchase from any high school or junior high football player. The dinner will be held on March 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the high school.

The three different ticket options include the following: $6 for a single sandwich with coleslaw and green beans, $8 for two sandwiches with coleslaw and green beans and $25 for a family dinner.

This fundraiser will help with camps, clinics and other football related activities.

“People love to eat, and we have done it for a few years now. It has been one of our better fundraisers,” said coach Neil Dittmer.

See any football player for a ticket today.

 

Story by Makiya Russelburg

The 2018 football season may have ended in November, but the discussion still continues. Post season awards began after the season concluded, rewarding many players and coaches with great recognition.

Many Indiana Football Coaches Association awards were given to numerous players and coaches. IFCA All-State was awarded to Campbell for offensive line. IFCA Academic All-State was awarded to four senior players, including Tyson Lawson, Nick Douthitt, Jace Ingle and Charlie Meredith. Lawson is now also a member of the Region 10 Team and is still in the running to get the chance to be a player in the North v. South game this summer.

Two of our own coaches were also honored by the IFCA and will be coaching the North v. South game this summer. Head coach Jeremy Lowery will be the head coach of the game along with defensive coordinator Neil Dittmer by his side as assistant coach.

Campbell was also named AP All-State, and Lawson, Strange and Elliott were recognized as AP All-State Honorable Mention.

The season concluded with 13 wins and only one loss, resulting in an overall successful season for both individual players and the team altogether.

 

Story by Maggie Vincent

Paoli Fest is a free music, art and film festival that will take place at JayCee Park in Paoli. Paoli Fest Youth Committee coordinator Jordana Greenberg is recruiting people to join the Paoli Fest Youth Committee to help out with this year’s Paoli Fest in August.

Anyone ages 8-18 can join the committee. People who join the committee will be able to contribute their ideas for the festival. Anyone who has ideas to improve the community or has a passion for music, art and performance can help greatly with planning the festival. Other activities people in the committee can be a part of are designing and programming the festival, creating art, curating showcases and more. The festival will be August 9-10, and volunteers can help at the festival as well. Up to ten members can join the committee, but additional events will be held that more people can help with.

“Paoli Fest is meant to be a reflection of community expression and to be a place where youth are empowered and heard. Their perspectives, ideas and desires are central to creating something that is truly reflective of our potential as a community,” said Greenberg.

Coordinators of the youth committee will be providing workshops throughout the year leading up to the festival on topics such as musical performance, multi-media art, music business and what a career in the arts looks like. Anyone can join the youth committee by emailing Greenberg jordana@letmusicspeak.org or by calling (812) 320-1541. The committee will be meeting the second Monday of each month, and the time and place is to be discussed.

Joining this committee would be a great opportunity to help out with the festival and contribute new ideas.

 

Story by Angie Ceja

On Saturday, January 26, members of the band traveled to Jasper Elementary School for Solo and Ensemble. This is an event where band students play a prepared piece in front of music judges. Students have a choice of either playing a solo or playing in a group with other students from their school.

They are scored in various categories, such as intonation, tone quality, articulation, tonguing, bowing techniques, note and rhythmic accuracy, interpretation, dynamic and musicianship. Once the score is tallied, students receive one of the following four ratings: Gold, Silver, Bronze or Participation. A Gold is the highest award a student can receive, and a group one solo or ensemble is the most advanced level. If a student received a Gold and performed in a group one solo or ensemble, they advance to State Solo and Ensemble.

A total of 58 PHS band students participated in the event, and 28 soloists and 10 ensembles qualified for State. The students advancing to State Solo and Ensemble are seventh grader Braydon Crowder; eighth graders Brody Wilcox and AJ Lopez; freshmen Angie Ceja, Kylee Charles, Haley Cox, Kaitlyn Dickey, Marissa Fleenor, Michael Hannon, Jonica Land and Elijah MacDonald; sophomores Trey Cranfield, Aaron Bayless and Chloe Thacker; juniors Josey Bledsoe, Emmett Dunn, Koby Durbin, Rheanna Jones, Noah McSpadden, Grayson McGowen, Alicia Neale, Hunter Roach, Aron Royer, Mason Smith, Vanesa Swartz, Jacob Tapp and Devan Thompson and seniors Isaiah Jones, Jillian Keen, Maggie McGowen and Breanna Ward.

An Honors Recital open to the public will be held in the Ruth Uyesugi Auditorium on Thursday, February 21 at 7:00 p.m., and admission is free of charge. Everyone who advanced will be traveling to Indianapolis on February 23 for State Solo and Ensemble.

 

Story by Angie Ceja

Prom is an exciting time for most juniors and seniors to buy tuxedos and dresses and invite their guests. As the second semester starts, some students are focused on planning and preparing for prom to make sure the guests have the time of their lives.

This year’s prom will be held on Saturday, April 27, and the theme is “Around the World in One Night.” The junior class officers are in charge of planning and organizing prom, which will be held in the Auxiliary Gym.

“We are going to have different places around the world featured in the gym,” said Junior Class President Maddy McDonald.

This year, prom will be catered by Sander Catering, and the DJ will be Carl Anderson, both of which were hired last year.

“Tickets will likely go on sale right after spring break and are $40 each for everyone except PHS seniors. Senior tickets are $10 each. Tickets will be sold in the treasurer’s office, and table sign-ups will be with Mrs. Hudelson,” said Junior Class Sponsor Chris Jones.

Any guest wishing to attend prom must be 20 years old or younger.

“Proof of identification must be provided to administrators prior to any guest attending prom who is not a PHS student,” said Jones.

The art department and the junior class officers plan to make some of the decorations needed for prom, but the prom account in the treasurer’s office has money saved in it. More money is planned to be raised in order to buy some of the decorations. The class officers will be selling prom tickets and hosting Mr. PHS to raise money.

This year, post prom will be held at the high school. The senior parents have raised money and planned many activities for the evening. The post prom theme is “Carnival.”

“We will have carnival games and inflatables, such as the Wrecking Ball and Blue Crush Obstacle Course. We will also have a photo booth,” said senior parent Destiny Cunningham.

The senior parents have conducted a variety of fundraisers this year in order to raise money for post prom. Parents have volunteered to work concessions at varsity football and basketball games, sold bags of peanuts with Texas Roadhouse coupons, sold pizza at lunch for students and hosted the White Castle Crave mobile at Walmart. They have also asked for grants from REMC for $500, PTO for $500 and FIA for $2000. So far, they have received $500 from REMC.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for April 27.

 

Story by Lili Seals

On Saturday, January 26, six wrestlers competed in Sectional at Bloomington North High School. Out of the six that competed, five wrestlers advanced to Regional. Seniors JD Beavers, Timmy Burton, Logan Curts and Chad Warren advanced along with sophomore Brycen Long.

Beavers went into Regional with a record of 23-5. This will be his second year back to Regional in a three year span.

“JD has improved vastly since his first season and is set to advance to Semi-State with a great effort on his part,” said Coach Justin Burton.

Timmy Burton, with a record of 36-3, has also achieved many things in his time of wrestling. Burton is a two-time Semi-State qualifier and is hoping to advance further this year. Burton is only two wins away from being tied for #2 in all time wins at Paoli in only three seasons, with 106 wins currently.

For Curts (10-7), this advancement is very exciting, as he is a first-time Regional qualifier.

“He has a tall order to advance, but he has been wrestling well and is finally realizing his potential,” said Coach Burton.

Warren (34-8) has also been wrestling well this season.

“Individually, Chad Warren has been an outstanding performer for us all year,” said Burton.

Warren fell a little short of what he had hoped for at Sectional. As a result, his road to Semi-State will be tough, but coaches are confident that he is capable of reaching his goals.

Another first time Regional qualifier, Long (26-12), has also had a stand-out season. Long has found his confidence this season and has wrestled very well so far. Long is set to wrestle the second place finisher from Southridge High School.

Coach Burton is very thrilled to have five of his wrestlers advance.

“I’m very excited about our chance to do something no other wrestling team has done and send  five kids to Semi-State,” said Burton.

Burton enjoys watching the wrestlers compete.

“I tell the kids I don’t care about records. I don’t care about who is across from us. If we go out there and do our thing, the wins will come,” said Coach Burton.

Regional will be held Saturday, February 2, at 9 a.m. at Bloomington South High School. If the wrestlers then advance to Semi-State, they will travel to the Ford Center in Evansville on February 9 at 10 a.m.

 

Story by Makiya Russelburg

Today marks the one year anniversary of former PHS student Dakota Stout’s death. The 2011 graduate passed away of a heroin/fentanyl overdose in Nashville, Tennessee while on the road as a truck driver.

Stout was more than a man who had made a headline or two in 2018. He was an FFA member and an artist. He had said that if he could have any superpower, it would be to “touch things and turn them into GOOOOOOLD!” when asked for Hillcrest’s 2011 yearbook.

Stout did not go unnoticed throughout his years at PHS. Some of our current PHS staff members remember Stout being very quiet and to himself. U.S. History teacher Chris Lindley describes him as being an introverted kid. Stout was also described by art teacher Chris Jones as a kind, real, loyal and dependable person and someone who never caused anyone any issues.

“He never quit, he always worked hard and I was proud of him because he never gave up. Dakota was just a really nice kid, and we got along great. It pains me that this has happened to him and his family because he was a good guy with a lot of potential,” said Jones.

Although Stout’s death could have been prevented with the right resources, his story sparked something even bigger. Safe Haven Recovery Engagement Center is a place for addicts and recovering addicts to seek help if they are struggling.

“Once Dakota died, I started meeting all these people in recovery. I started doing research about addiction, treatment and recovery, and I found that if we wanted to prevent more deaths, we had to start in our own community and we had to start with something that was feasible,” said Brittany Stout, Dakota’s sister and one of the many contributors to Safe Haven.

Safe Haven’s missions are as follows:

• To have a centralized location to offer and start up recovery meetings, aiming for at least one per day available.
• To offer access and transportation to treatment for alcoholics/addicts that are ready to start their recovery journey.
• To offer a “Safe Haven” for those in early or even established recovery that need a place that they know is safe and everybody there is in recovery and sober and can come and access resources, literature, other recovering addicts and hope.

On Safe Haven’s Facebook page, the phrase “From Tragedy to Hope” is placed in all caps in their “About” section. The idea for this recovery center was derived from a similar program in Indianapolis, which a board member of Safe Haven had come across. Most importantly, Dakota’s death was the push to start up this program so others in need of help could receive it.

“This person had a place like Safe Haven that he went to early in recovery, and while hearing him talk about it, all I could think was ‘Dakota would have done so much better with something like this available to him.’ Dakota’s passing was quite a catalyst for the entire community to be more open and aware of addiction,” said Brittany.

According to Brittany, Safe Haven is a “clearinghouse of resources for those wanting to start recovery, are already in recovery, for community members wanting more education and for family members” as well as a place which offers housing, transportation, food and employment.

After close to a year of planning and organizing, tonight will be Safe Haven’s grand opening. The event starts at 6 p.m. and will last until 9 p.m., and it will be located at 308 South Oak Street, Paoli, IN 47454. People will be able to learn about Safe Haven’s services offered both to people suffering as well as their families and learn about ways to volunteer or get involved. A dedication service for Dakota will be at 6:30 p.m. For more information about Safe Haven, visit SafeHavenRec.com and be sure to look up their hashtag, #EndTheStigma, on Facebook.

Dakota’s legacy will live on through Safe Haven. Brittany hopes people are able to find strength and comfort along their journeys.

 

Story by Sara Kesterson

At the beginning of the 2019-2020 school year, a new veterinarian class will be offered to any junior or senior who has taken chemistry, animal life science and advanced animal life science or has a teacher approval.

Vet Careers I will be offered next school year. Agriculture teacher Cory Scott will be teaching this class. Vet Careers II should be available for the 2021-2022 school year, which will have a prerequisite of Vet Careers I and require a veterinarian approval. Scott will be teaching this class a few days a week, and the students will be working in a veterinarian’s office the remaining days. The student will be in a job shadow or internship position at the veterinarian’s office which accepts them.

“This was part of the long-term vision developed by myself, Dr. McDonald and our Agriculture Advisory Board with support from the Lost River Career Center,” said Scott.

In Vet Careers I, students will primarily focus on pharmacy, pharmacology, medical terminology, mathematics and basic veterinary foundational knowledge.

With all this preparation, students will have the opportunity to experience hands-on learning with animals.

Scott and many others have been working on getting materials needed for the class.

“We have been building for this course for the last few years. The Dr. McDonald Animal Science Pavilion was obviously the big piece needed. We have also invested in a lot of other items that will be needed. We still have things to get, but most can be added as we go,” said Scott.

Students will have an opportunity to experience real-life situations during the school day in the new vet classes being offered.

Scott believes it is important that students understand this is not a class about cuddling with sick animals. Vet Careers I is going to be a very hard test both mentally and physically. It will determine if students have what it takes to move into Vet Careers II, which will primarily be working at a clinic with a veterinarian. The terminology and mathematics are going to require a lot of studying and homework. The hands-on will be “dirty” and real-world.

 

Story by Lili Seals

Preparations for the spring play are beginning, and auditions will be held after school on February 5, 6, and 7.

This year’s performance is the stage version of Footloose. It’s similar to the 1980s film with Kevin Bacon but with music similar to what is performed on Broadway.

Students will gather in the auditorium on each audition day to sing and act. A prepared piece is not required, but students can prepare a monologue or solo act to demonstrate their skills. Students who want a lead role will need to practice singing at home.

“Students should audition if they have ever felt remotely interested in a musical. Anyone serious about participating can be in the show,” said Wishart.

Other than being on stage, there are many ways to help with production. More information is going to be on flyers, in the morning announcements and outside of Wishart’s classroom. Any students interested can also email Wishart with any questions at wishartm@paoli.k12.in.us.

 

Story by Jozalyn Kempf

On Wednesday, January 30, the varsity girls basketball team will travel to Eastern High School to compete in the first round of Sectional against Henryville. The game will begin at 7:30 p.m., following the Eastern and Providence game at 6 p.m.

“If we beat Henryville on Wednesday night, we have to begin to prepare for Friday night. That’s one thing that is different about Sectional week. You must focus on the first game, but you do have to plan for the future a little bit,” said JV coach Donovan Crews.

If Paoli advances out of the first round of Sectional, they will play again in the second round on Friday, February 1 at 7:30 p.m. The championship game will be hosted Saturday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m.

The girls fell short last year in Semi-State after winning a Sectional and Regional championship. In turn, this year, they are going to make some adjustments and cope with changes to try and advance further.

“One thing that is different from last year’s team is the amount of leadership and the experience that comes with playing in a Sectional game. This year’s team doesn’t have the same amount of experience as we did last year. A lot of the girls have not had to play major minutes during tournament time because this was not their role last year. This year, most, if not all, are going to have to play for extended periods of time and not let the hype of the game get the best of them,” said senior Madison Street.

Coming off a successful 2017-2018 season, the team has hopes of grabbing another Sectional title this year.

 

Story by Makiya Russelburg

On January 26, the wrestling team will be traveling to compete in Sectional at Bloomington North. Ram wrestlers include senior Timmy Burton, senior Chad Warren, senior Logan Curts, junior Tanner Coe, sophomore Brycen Long and senior JD Beavers.

There are 11 teams in the Bloomington North Sectional, but each individual wrestler will compete against a wrestler from another school based on their seeding. For example, two wrestlers from Paoli may not compete against the same school; it is more individually based.

“Our Sectional is very difficult, but I think we should have multiple of our guys make it to Regional,” said Burton.

For those wrestlers who advance out of Sectional, Regional will be held at Bloomington South on February 2. Burton, along with the other wrestlers, are excited to see how their hard work has paid off this season as they strive for a Sectional title.

 

Story by Madison Street

On Thursday, January 3, the girls golf team celebrated the end of their golf season with a banquet at Super Burger. Along with handing out awards and talking about accomplishments, there was also time to catch up with other team members. Coach Brad Bledsoe was joined by freshmen Corinne Magner and Hayley Taylor, sophomore Haley Owens and juniors Addison Wells, Avery Owens and Jalyn Engelking.

Of the six players mentioned, three were selected for awards. Magner received Mental Attitude, Haley Owens earned Most Valuable Player and Avery Owens was given Most Improved. The team had also pitched in to get their coach a gift, which was a plaque that had the word “coach” engraved on it.

While reflecting on past success, Bledsoe was also very optimistic about his team’s future.

“Next year is the year where we come back and win Regional and Sectional. If we work hard next season, we can do it,” said Bledsoe.

 

Story by Corinne Magner

Tonight, speakers from InvestEd and 21st Century Scholars will be at PHS at 6 p.m. in the high school computer lab to help with financial aid. Seniors and their parents will have access to assistance with filing FAFSA and finishing 21st Century Scholar responsibilities. The representatives will also answer any financial aid questions students or parents may have. InvestEd will be doing a brief presentation about the student aid report, FAFSA errors, the verification process and reviewing state grants.

“We will have time for individual questions, and the computers would be available, so I would love for all seniors and their parents to come and join us for this finalizing financial aid event,” said guidance counselor Brandi Kerley.

 

Story by Rebekah Reeves

Winter weather can lead to school delays or cancellations. Parents can find out about weather related delays or cancellations from news sites, but Paoli Community School Corporation also has a call list.

Parents should have a phone number linked with their parent portal account on Tyler SIS, which is the gradebook system used by Paoli Schools. If a parent does not know the login information for their account, they can email Guidance Secretary Sara Parks at parkss@paoli.k12.in.us or call 812-723-3050.

If a parent has a new phone number or has a child who is new to Paoli Schools, they can contact Parks with the same contact information listed above to be put on the call list.

 

Story by Sara Kesterson

Guidance counselors Brandi Kerley and Rachel Robinson have been working on an event that eighth graders will be thankful for next year: freshman orientation. Advancing from junior high into freshman year of high school may not seem like a major change since students remain in the same building, but since graduation requirements have changed, students may need guidance to stay on track.

“We’re really excited because the diploma requirements are changing for our current eighth grade class. We are going to roll out those new requirements, so we really hope that all of our eighth graders or their parents or guardians will come,” said Kerley.

On Monday, February 4, students and their families will be invited to attend an orientation starting at 6 p.m. in the cafeteria. A Powerpoint presentation will be shown with in-depth information explaining the changes to the policy. Robinson and Kerley are also going to cover other courses that were either not available to eighth graders before or unfamiliar among the student body.

“Nick Douthitt, a journalism student, is actually interviewing elective teachers so they can talk about the classes they are offering. We’ll show that video at orientation,” said Kerley.

Kerley is also trying to make it as easy as possible for next year’s freshmen to make that transition into high school. She has been collaborating with agriculture teacher Cory Scott to possibly set up an open house like the Paoli Proud night held in December, except this one would be to expose the eighth graders to classes previously unknown or unclear to them.

“We could have an open house where eighth graders will be able to tour the agriculture programs and the Lost River Career Cooperative vocational programs. This will allow them to actually see some of these things so they know which direction they want to go in high school,” said Kerley.

Freshman orientation is going to be a great learning opportunity for those entering high school next year. The thorough explanations will allow students to start their ninth grade year fully informed and educated on what they can participate in and what they must complete to receive their desired diplomas.

 

Story by Masden Embry

Tri-Hi-Y is a nonprofit organization at PHS that works to help other charities and groups in need. It is sponsored by English teacher Maria Wishart, and the club has 21 members participating this year.

Club members include seventh graders William Barton and Taisha Robbins; freshmen Luke Gibson and Jeremiah Jones; sophomores Chandler Hinton, Gavin Bissonette, Ben Tapp and Triston Robbins; juniors Mary Jones, Loveneet Kaur, Makayla Chism, Kayla Tedrow and seniors Geri Baker, Madison Collins, Cicaley Moffat and Tabbi Robbins.  

Club officers are senior President Jenna Prater, sophomore Treasurer Tara Robbins and senior Secretary Tessa Robbins. Sophomore Christian Ruth and junior Sassy Albright are on the officer committee as well.

Last year, the club raised money and donated to Shop with a Cop and Smile Train. Shop with a Cop is where police officers take kids shopping and help their families buy them presents for Christmas. Smile Train is a group that goes to different countries and helps kids with clefts. Tri-Hi-Y also made hats for children in hospitals as well as soldiers.

“Last semester, Tri-Hi-Y raised money for different groups around the world. They donated to Build the Barn by selling ice cream, sold donuts to raise money for senior Kayle Kibler and held a fundraiser for Operation Christmas Child by selling ice cream,” said Tara Robbins.

Many charity organizations have been fortunate that Tri-Hi-Y has been hosting many fundraisers to raise money for many charities in the community. “We plan on selling donuts and coffee, holding a dodgeball tournament, having a talent contest and selling candy grams for a fundraiser this semester,” said Robbins.

The club is still deciding where they want to donate the money they raised from last semester, but right now, they are looking at sending the money raised to help with Special Olympics or to help with the Kayle Kibler fundraising.

Tri-Hi-Y meets every Thursday morning in the conference room if anyone is interested in joining.

 

Story by Lili Seals

A total of 13 band and choir students will be traveling to Fort Wayne, IN to perform in the Indiana Music Educators Conference on January 17-19. Seventh grader Braydon Crowder, eighth grader Brody Wilcox, freshmen Kylee Charles, Angie Ceja, Michael Hannon, Haley Cox and Marissa Fleenor, juniors Hunter Roach and Noah McSpadden and seniors Margaret McGowen and Breanna Ward will be performing in either the Indiana Junior All-State Band, All-State Orchestra or the Indiana Music Education Association (IMEA) Honor Band.

In addition to these students, eighth grader Ryleigh Anderson and junior Megan Poe will be singing in the IMEA Honor Choir. Only the best performers in each band and choir from schools across the state are selected to perform. For many students, it is the utmost honor to be chosen to perform with other talented singers.

“It makes me feel that my hard work in practicing my music and playing my trumpet is paying off and that I have equal talent to these other great players,” said Cox.

This annual event is a chance for people to interact with others who share the same interests as them. It is also an opportunity for these students to learn more from other bands and choirs, and possibly implement another group’s strategies into their own band or choir.

“I am excited to be with so many other people around the state. It’s great to hear the people singing these pieces and make new friendships,” said Poe.

 

Story by Sara Kesterson

Seventh graders competed against each other for the opportunity to participate in the county Spelling Bee. The competition was held on January 16 during homeroom. Seventh graders Cameron Apple, Jason Beavers, Braydon Crowder and Olivia Deaver are the four who will be moving on to the county Spelling Bee, which will be held at PHS in the Ruth Useygui Auditorium on Sunday, February 24. Students from Springs Valley and Orleans will also be participating. The winner of the county Bee will go on an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Scripps Spelling Bee that will take place in May.

 

Story by Kaden Lewellyn