On December 10, Orange County’s Lilly Endowment Scholarship was awarded to senior Michael Hannon. This scholarship is a full ride to any college in Indiana and will help cover room and board and other required fees for four years.
“I am beyond thrilled to have such an amazing opportunity going into college. It will definitely be a huge help and I’m so thankful for everyone who has helped me,” said Hannon.
On December 15, juniors Marty Higgins, River Fleming, Clara Henderson and Masden Embry were recognized as new members of The Rising Stars of Indiana.
Rising Stars of Indiana is a noncompetitive recognition program, designed to
honor high school juniors for their outstanding academic achievement.
“It’s really nice to be recognized for the effort we put in to get the grades we do,” said Embry.
On December 20, the first litter of piglets was born in the Paoli Pig Barn. The first pig to give birth was Rosie, owned by seventh grader Graydan Padgett, and Rosie had 11 babies; six were boars and five were gilts.
Since then, there have been two other litters born. On December 24, Reba, owned by senior Carson Little, had six babies; three boars and three gilts. On December 26, Buffy, owned by freshman Keeley Scott, had eight babies; five boars and three gilts. On January 10, Rose, owned by freshman Mary Cook, had one baby; one gilt.
“My favorite part about having pigs is when they have the babies. It is more exciting than Christmas presents.” said
Padgett. He plans to continue raising pigs, and might try working with different breeds in the future. Padgett will use the money he earns this year and use it to help pay for expenses with his next pigs.
Two pigs in the barn didn’t give birth this time; Naomi owned by freshman Haylie Gilliatt, and Margo, owned by Hannah Woolston. Margo was bred on December 18, and her piglets will be
ready in time to be used in late fall and early winter shows. Naomi will be sent back home with Gilliatt.
The pigs that the students observe off campus have also started to mother their litters. Four out
of five pigs off campus have given birth.
Sixth grader Lucas Carmickle’s pigs were the first to give birth. Hella had 11 babies, six boars and
five gilts, and Hazel had five babies; four boars and one gilt. Patches, Scott’s pig, had 14 babies; nine boars and five gilts. Sixth grader Lucas Carmickle’s pig was next. Astrid had five babies; three boars and two gilts.
“I have raised pigs since I was really young, and I started showing them in third grade. My favorite part about raising pigs is the experience I get from it, and being able to help other people with their pigs when they need it,” said Scott.
If you are interested in learning more about the pig program visit the PHS website and click on the Paoli Farm-to-Table Program site link located under Menu.
Story by Carley Higgins
First Big Musical after COVID a Success
From December 2-4, drama club students presented “Descendants”, their fall musical based on a Disney film of the same name. In total, 420 tickets were sold over the three nights, making it one of the most attended production in the club’s history.
Drama director Maria Wishart was appreciated of all of the parents, staff and the kids who participated.
“I think the play went wonderfully. We had a wide range of age ranges and experience levels both on the stage and backstage. Everyone contributed something to make it a fabulous show,” said Wishart.
The play showcased the talents of eleven seniors, as it is their final year being with their drama family.
Senior Taylor Becht just joined drama this year and landed a major role in the Descendants production. She performed as the main villain, Maleficent.
“From this musical I gained confidence and new-found friendships that will last a life time. I wouldn’t take it back for anything,” said Becht.
The production featured a talented cast of about 50 students from both the high school and elementary schools.
On the night of the last show, Wishart was also honored by drama club students both past and present, as this production marks her 20th year as the drama club director and 50th show at PHS.
School board member Craig Starr and former member Roger Moon presented Wishart with an award.
“Maria, here you are being honored between a Moon and a Starr,” joked Moon.
Story and Photos by Ashleigh Garcia
PHS News Today 
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