Student of the Month
The Stewart County High School (SCHS) faculty has started implementing a new Student of the Month recognition award for outstanding seniors. Each month of the school year a senior student will be named Student of the Month for SCHS. These students are selected by the faculty for their outstanding character, citizenship, academic credentials, student involvement in activities/organizations, and because they serve as positive role models for underclassmen.
May Student of the Month—Ty Genz
The Stewart County
High School (SCHS) faculty is proud to announce that Ty Genz has been
selected as May Student of the Month for his outstanding academic
achievement, student involvement, and for serving as an exceptional role
model for underclassmen. After graduation, he plans to attend Austin
Peay State University and earn a degree in geology.
Genz is known for his dedication to both academics
and athletics. He is a member of the Top Ten Percent of the Class of
2017, which is a testament to his pursuit of academic achievement. Math
teacher, Nicole Douglass confirms his commitment to excellence stating,
“I have thoroughly enjoyed having Ty in class and believe that he is an
excellent choice for Student of the Month. Ty exhibits a positive
attitude and willingness to learn. He also has the belief that he can
always improve which is vital to the learning process. Ty is an example
of someone who is willing to work hard to obtain his goals, both inside
and outside of the classroom.”
Genz is a four-year member of the Varsity Rebel
Football team and is notorious for his work ethic and commitment to the
team. During his senior season, he demonstrated his leadership ability
through his role as team captain. Genz was recognized by the Tennessee
Secondary School Athletic Association for his performance on the field
and in the classroom as he was named to the 2016 All Region and All
Academic Teams. At the local level, he garnered the Most Valuable
Running Back award. Criminal justice teacher and head football coach,
Chanz Swartz, praised Genz for his contribution to the team remarking,
“As a coach, you always stress the importance of leadership. Being a
true natural leader is something that cannot be taught. Either you have
it or you don’t. Ty has it! Not only does he have it on the field, he
also has it everywhere else. The way that Ty carries himself as a young
adult is exceptional! To be a great leader, you have to lead by example
and that is exactly what Ty does. He is a leader among men, and in my
opinion, that is one of the best traits you can possess in life. Ty Genz
demonstrates every day the characteristics a true REBEL should have!”
He has also been a four-year member of HOSA Future
Health Professionals. As a member of this organization, he has assisted
with fundraising through working as a volunteer at several chicken
dinner sales. Genz also entered the competitive arena at both regional
and state levels through his three-year participation in the Clinical
Specialty event. He is also a member of Beta. Science teacher, Allen
Ralls, affirms his competitive spirit saying, “The first and foremost
thing about Mr. Genz is that he's a competitor and winner. Some of his
projects in Physics have been outstanding with amazing effort. He takes
the same approach at his education. He consistently gives you his best.
I never ask my students to give me A's, I only ask to be given their
best. I've never had to ask this from Ty.” Outside of school, Genz has
spent time as a three-year member of the Cross Creek Baptist Church
youth drama team through which he has participated in monthly
productions.
When asked to give an appraisal of his time at SCHS
Genz remarked, “My time at SCHS has helped me in many ways to prepare
for college. The classes I took constantly challenged me and made me
think harder and smarter.”
Ty is the son of David and Heather Genz.
April Student of the Month—Joshua Moore
The Stewart County
High School (SCHS) faculty is proud to announce that Joshua Moore has
been selected as April Student of the Month for his outstanding academic
achievement, student involvement, and for serving as an exceptional role
model for underclassmen. After graduation, he plans to attend Austin
Peay State University and major in computer science.
Moore has an outstanding academic record. He has
earned the distinction of being in the Top Ten Percent of the Class of
2017. His approach to academics provides his peers with an example of
what a steadfast pursuit of academic triumph looks like. In recognition
of his academic achievement, he has received Black and Gold Awards in
Honors English III, Honors Algebra II, Precalculus, Chemistry I, Spanish
I, Accounting I, Guitar, and Physical Science. Science teacher, Allen
Ralls, acknowledges Moore’s zest for learning stating, “This was my
first year to have Josh as a student and what a loss for me that I
hadn't had him sooner. What a great student and what an even better
young man. His concern for knowledge is outstanding. These traits will
ensure his success in college and I wish him the best.”
In the classroom, teachers consider Moore a
positive force displayed through his active participation in
discussions, during which he offers meaningful ideas and insights. He
also shows evidence of natural leadership qualities manifested in his
readiness to help others. Moore is always willing to provide tutoring to
his peers, often through his own initiation as he has the ability to
recognize when someone needs assistance. His humble demeanor and patient
attitude make him an effective and sought-after tutor. Another notable
characteristic Moore possesses is his willingness to jump in and assist
teachers with a variety of tasks. Oftentimes, he will see what needs to
be done and will tackle tasks without being asked. He is willing to
complete any chore—even those that are not considered glamorous. He
never hesitates to step forward and volunteer his time. Math teacher,
Marcia Joiner, affirms these qualities saying, “Josh Moore is an
intelligent, hardworking, gentleman, whatever he attempts, he gives it
his all. He is an all-around wonderful person!”
An engaged member of the Stewart County High School
(SCHS) community, Moore has been an active participant in Class of 2017
activities. During football homecoming activities, he has been a
reoccurring cast member in the class air show, assisted with the
construction of props, and enthusiastically supported his class peers
during competitive field day events. This past year Moore served as
Treasurer of SCHS Student Council. He is a four-year member of Math Club
currently holding the position of Treasurer, a three-year member of
Future Business Leaders of America, and a member of Beta. Student
Council sponsor and math teacher, Penny Parsons offers this
complimentary assessment of Moore remarking, “Josh Moore is an
exceptional student and person. He is driven to be the best that he can
be at everything he does. He desires to understand how things work
instead of just learning a process. He is a true self-motivated learner.
In addition, I cannot say enough about his character. He is truly an
honest, respectful, responsible and caring person.”
Moore speaks favorably of his stint at SCHS
commenting, “Stewart County High School has taught me to surpass my
limits. For four years, I have pushed myself to do a little better and
work a little faster. After four years of hard work and dedication, I am
proud to say that I do not fear the future. Because of SCHS, I embrace
it.”
Joshua is the son Michael and Dawn Moore.
March Student of the Month—Chayann Vanzant
The Stewart County
High School (SCHS) faculty is proud to announce that Chayann Vanzant has
been selected as March Student of the Month for her outstanding academic
achievement, student involvement, and for serving as an exceptional role
model for underclassmen. Following high school, she plans to attend the
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with the hope of eventually
studying abroad. Her long range goal is to become a doctor and travel
the world helping people in need.
Vanzant, the Salutatorian of the Class of 2017, is
known for her strong work ethic and devotion to academics. For her
scholastic achievement, she has been honored with Black and Gold Awards
in Anatomy & Physiology and Computer Applications. Spanish teacher,
Rhonda Link, affirms Vanzant’s attention to academics remarking,
“Chayann tackles the tasks she is given with everything she has. Whether
that be a simple homework assignment or an important project, teachers
should only expect her very best. Her competitive nature, whether on the
basketball court or in class, causes her to better herself every day.
That quality is difficult to find in people her age. Students like her
make my job worthwhile.” Selected as a 2016 Tennessee American Legion
Auxiliary Volunteers Girls State Delegate, Vanzant spent a week on the
campus of Lipscomb University in Nashville. This experience gave her the
opportunity to engage in activities, which offered instruction in state
government, and how to be an active and informed citizen.
She is a four-year member of the Lady Rebels
Basketball team. Social studies teacher and girls basketball coach,
Gilbert Harper, affirms Vanzant’s diligence stating, “Chay has a great
work ethic in the classroom and on the basketball court. She has been a
joy to coach the past four years. Her work effort definitely transfers
to basketball. I've enjoyed watching her turn into a team leader the
past few years. I look forward to watching her and the rest of my senior
basketball players do great things.” Involved in a variety of activities
and organizations, Vanzant is a three-year member of HOSA: Future Health
Professionals, a four-year member of Future Business Leaders of America,
a two-year member of Family Career and Community Leaders of America, a
two-year member of the Building Every Asset Right from the Start (BEARS)
Team, and a member of Beta. Additionally, she is a two-year member of
the Math Club, a two-year member of the Spanish Club, and on the 2016
Bonanza Yearbook Staff. Math teacher, Marcia Joiner, also affirms
Vanzant’s diligence in all things remarking, “Chayann is a hard worker
both in the classroom and on the court. She stays on top of her classes
as well as her extracurricular activities.”
Vanzant is already an active citizen in her local
community through her volunteer service. For three years as a member of
the BEARS team, she has assisted with the assembling of supplies for the
Backpack Program, which provides children in the school system with
healthy food over weekends and breaks. Through her church, Faith & Grace
Nazarene, she has been an active participant in the Angels on Duty
program, where she has helped to deliver meals to the poor and elderly
in the community. For the past year on Saturdays, she has given of her
time to referee basketball games for the Stewart County Athletic
Association. Vanzant has also worked at several health fairs working the
Tennessee Quality Homecare booth.
Vanzant is appreciative of her SCHS journey noting,
“My time at Stewart County High School has prepared me for my future by
teaching me to be myself and be independent no matter where I am. Being
different and creative can take you anywhere in life. I am thankful for
SCHS and everyone who has helped me throughout this experience.”
Chayann is the daughter of Michael and Winona
Vanzant.
February Student of the Month—Jacob Goldsmith
The Stewart County
High School (SCHS) faculty is proud to announce that Jacob Goldsmith has
been selected as February Student of the Month for his outstanding
academic achievement, student involvement, and for serving as an
exceptional role model for underclassmen. After high school, he plans to
attend the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga to study business and
marketing.
Goldsmith is known for his natural and dynamic
leadership style. The development of this quality began his freshman
year when he was elected class president, a role that he continued in
his sophomore and junior years. While serving in this capacity,
Goldsmith did an excellent job of leading his class to outstanding
results in competitive homecoming activities. His dedication to the
group, his ability to lead, and make everyone feel valued, has earned
him the respect of his peers, as they respond positively to his
leadership. Currently, he is serving as Student Council President, which
is testimony to the trust and esteem he has garnered. Library Media
Specialist and Class of 2017 sponsor, Lora Black, gives testament to
Goldsmith’s leadership acumen stating, “Without a doubt, Jacob is one of
the most talented individuals and strongest leaders to ever grace
Stewart County High School. He is ambitious in all the right ways and
willing to do the work of an army to reach personal and team goals. It
has been a great honor to be on his team and witness his rise to
success. I am excited to see what the future holds for this remarkable
young man.”
He has also earned a solid reputation for his video
and editing skills. He was instrumental in the successful production of
the 2016 edition of Spread the Word to End the Word video, and he is
currently in the midst of creating the 2017 video edition. Goldsmith was
approached last spring to film and produce a video entitled “2016 SCHS
Graduation Walk” which chronicled the Class of 2016 visits to the
elementary and middle schools. This past fall he produced another video
that promoted the countywide Read 20 initiative using students from
North Stewart Elementary School. He also filmed the “Good to be Alive”
production which was shown at the 2016 Football Homecoming celebration.
His interest in video production began in his Digital Business
Communications class. He was recognized for his outstanding work in this
course, as he was the recipient of the Digital Business Communications
Black and Gold Award.
Goldsmith is a
member of the 2016-17 Bonanza Yearbook staff and presently holds the
position of Video Editor. He is also a four-year member of HOSA: Future
Health Professionals and the Creative Problem Solving team. This team
has earned two second places and one third place finish at the State
Leadership Conference during the last three years. He is a one-year
member of Future Business Leaders of America, and a member of Beta. Lisa
Luton, English teacher, affirms Goldsmith’s notoriety as a well-rounded
individual and leader stating, “Jacob Goldsmith is a rare mix of raw
talent, determination, and humility. He was never a student I really
needed to teach so much as just give him the job and stay out of his
way. His posture and proficiency command respect from peers and teachers
alike without him ever having to ask for it, but never once have I seen
his adept competency go to his head. He’s wicked smart, and with his
level-headed personality and genuine willingness to help, I am confident
we’ll be reading about his successes in the not-too-distant future.”
In regards to his time at SCHS, Goldsmith offers
this enthusiastic and positive assessment remarking, “My time at SCHS
has built me into a self-learning, independent leader who boldly stands
up to face any challenge before me. My time involved in CTSOs, school
clubs, and other student led organizations is a blessing I will cherish
forever. My future will be stamped with the great memories and lessons I
have receive from SCHS. The students, faculty, and staff, have impacted
my life in the biggest way possible.”
Jacob is the son of Ryan and Chrissi Goldsmith.
January Student of the Month—Grant Bumpus
The Stewart County
High School (SCHS) faculty is proud to announce that Grant Bumpus has
been selected as January Student of the Month for his outstanding
academic achievement, student involvement, and for serving as an
exceptional role model for underclassmen. After high school, he plans to
attend college and pursue a degree in engineering.
Bumpus is a
four-year member of the Rebel Golf team and was a member of the 2014 and
2015 District Golf Championship teams. In 2015 he was named to The Leaf
Chronicle All-Area Boys Golf First Team. At the conclusion of the 2016
season, he was named to The Leaf Chronicle All-Area Boys Golf Second
Team. Bumpus was also a two-year member of the Rebel Baseball team. He
is also a one-year member of Future Business Leaders of America and a
member of Beta.
Academics are
important to Bumpus, and he is well known for his diligence in the
classroom. In acknowledgement of his academic competence, he was awarded
a Black and Gold award for U.S. History. His character and his serious
approach to academics resulted in his selection as a 2016 Tennessee
American Legion Boys State Delegate. This honor resulted in a week spent
on the campus of Tennessee Tech University. The Boys State program
allows each participant to become a part of the operation of his local,
county, and state governments operated by students elected to the
various offices. Math teacher, Nicole Douglass, praises Bumpus’
classroom performance saying, “I have had the pleasure of having Grant
in class for two years and quickly noticed that he is a delightful,
intelligent, and dedicated student. He is always eager to learn and
encourages others to do well with his exceptional work ethic. Grant
displays a remarkable strength in character by providing support and
help to his peers and others, both academically and socially. Grant’s
exceptional character also shows through in his ability to be a team
player, whether it is in the classroom or during school activities like
homecoming.”
One of the most
compelling aspects of Bumpus is his character and compassion for others.
Science teacher, Allen Ralls, remarks, “Grant Bumpus is the
example. He is the example of a fine young man. He is the example of a
hard worker. Most of all, he is the example of what one should do to
succeed in college. Grant is also one of the most humble students I have
ever had. He doesn't stand out in my classroom because he doesn't boast
about his accomplishments. But, because of his work effort, he stands
tall among others with his knowledge and abilities. I look forward to
seeing him grow as a young man and achieving whatever he desires.” This
quality earned him the opportunity to serve as a 2016 Focus on
Your Future mentor, a role which allowed him to help prepare eighth
graders for the transition to high school.
He also enjoys giving back to the local community.
Bumpus helps coach young golfers through a program sponsored by The
First Tee of Nashville. Through his affiliation with Cross Creek Baptist
Church, he volunteers his time to assist with community service programs
such as The Good Samaritans.
When asked to give an evaluation of his time at
SCHS, Bumpus responded, “Throughout high school I’ve learned many
valuable lessons, thanks to the great teachers and staff of Stewart
County High School. They really do care about the students, and the
teachers have a great impact on them. I’m thankful for my time here.”
Grant is the son of Todd and Amy Bumpus.
December Student of the Month—JayLynn Gafford
The Stewart County High School (SCHS) faculty is
proud to announce JayLynn Gafford has been chosen as December Student of
the Month for her outstanding academic achievement, student involvement,
and for serving as an exceptional role model for underclassmen. After
high school, Gafford plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science in education
at Austin Peay State University.
Gafford is a two-year member of Family, Career and Community
Leaders of America (FCCLA) and is part of the local chapter’s officer
team. She is also a two-year member of the BEARS (Building Every
Asset Right from the Start) Team, an arm of the FCCLA organization that
focuses on youth character building. Additionally, Gafford is a
member of the Reading Team. Through her BEARS and Reading Team
activities, Gafford has spent a significant amount of time working with
elementary students teaching positive character traits and assisting
with reading instruction. In FCCLA Star Events, she has earned first
place at the Regional and State Leadership Conferences. In recognition
of her academic success, Gafford was awarded the Black and Gold Award
for Fundamentals of Education. Nancy Myers, family and consumer science
teacher, shares these thoughts about Gafford’s exceptional qualities
remarking, “JayLynn is a wonderful choice for the Student of the Month
award. Her joyous, loving personality is contagious and brightens any
group or situation. She is so mature and has unique people skills that
make everyone around her more enthusiastic and optimistic. JayLynn is
intelligent and a true team player. I have been fortunate to work with
JayLynn in my classes and as a member of the BEARS Team. The BEARS Team
is a group of specially chosen students who serve as quality character
role models for their peers and for younger children. JayLynn uses her
charming personality to encourage others to strive for excellence in
their behavior like she does. Knowing and working with JayLynn is a
pleasure.”
Gafford is an
active member of Dover First Church of the Nazarene where she regularly
demonstrates her care and consideration of others. As a member of the
youth group she volunteers to aid with community trash pickup, to care
for children in the church nursery, and to work at the annual fish fry.
When asked to state a takeaway from her time at
SCHS, Gafford replied, “Stewart County High School has helped me grow
and mature as a person and a student. The teachers here have pushed me
to do my best, so I will be prepared for college.”
JayLynn is the daughter of Jamie and Becky Gafford.
November Student of the Month—Riley Nolen
Riley Nolen has
been selected by the Stewart County High School (SCHS) faculty as
November Student of the Month for his outstanding academic achievement,
student involvement, and for serving as an exceptional role model for
underclassmen. He plans to attend Austin Peay State University.
Nolen is a four-year member of the Rebel golf and basketball
teams. Recently, he was recognized for his success on the basketball
court as the newest member of the 1,000 point club at Stewart County
High School. Nolen has received numerous accolades for his basketball
skill as he is a three-year member of the District All Tournament Team,
two-year member of the All District Team and was a member of the The
Leaf Chronicle 2016 All-Area Boys Basketball team. In golf, he is a
two-time member of the District Golf Championship team and was named to
The Leaf Chronicle All-Area Boys Golf Second Team. Nolen is also a
two-time member of the Golf District Championship team. Nick Wallace,
Rebel basketball and golf coach, commends Nolen for his character
remarking, "It's easy to only focus on Rye's amazing athletic abilities.
However, what has always impressed me more than that is his devotion to
TEAM success. He relishes in other peoples successes more than his own,
has always sacrificed whatever for the team, and has been a shining
example of how to represent your county, school, and self."
He is a dedicated
student. In recognition of his academic achievement he has been
conferred Black and Gold awards in Biology and Economics and is a member
of Beta. An involved member of the SCHS community, Nolen is a three-year
member of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). He is
also a three-year member of the Building Every Asset Right from the
Start (BEARS) team and a member of this year’s inaugural Reading Team.
Family and Consumer Science teacher, Nancy Myers, offers this appraisal
of Nolen’s qualities, “Riley is a model example of good
character, intelligence and has the unique people skills that make
everyone around him feel important and included. I have been fortunate
to work with Riley as a student in my classes and as a member of the
BEARS team. The BEARS Team is a group of specially chosen students who
serve as quality character role models for their peers and for younger
children. Riley exemplifies those outstanding character qualities.
Whether in class, on the court, or working with younger students, his
commitment to excellence is apparent. He always works hard to be the
best.”
Nolen’s exceptional
character is also seen in his desire to serve the community through his
volunteer work. On Saturdays, he volunteers as a coach and referee for
the Stewart County Jr. Pro Basketball program. For the past three years
he has helped with the Stewart County Middle School summer basketball
camps. During the SCHS literacy night, he read to younger children in
the Read with a Rebel booth. Nolen has also assisted with the Children’s
Church program at Dyers Creek Church of God.
When asked to look back and comment on his SCHS
journey Nolen replied, “Stewart County High School has challenged me
academically, and the teachers have motivated me to go the extra mile. I
have learned that hard work pays off, and I know this will benefit me in
the future. I’m very thankful for the great teachers at SCHS.”
Riley is the son of Steve Nolen and Sharon
Williams.
October Student of the Month—Thomas Littleton
The Stewart County
High School (SCHS) faculty is proud to announce Thomas Littleton has
been chosen as October Student of the Month for his outstanding academic
achievement, student involvement, and for serving as an exceptional role
model for underclassmen. His plans after high school include attending
school at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with the goal of
becoming either a pastor or evangelist.
Littleton is a three-year member of HOSA: Future
Health Professionals. As an involved member of this organization, he
most recently was a member of the cast of the Suicide Awareness Program:
The Semicolon Project. This production performed in front of the student
body delivered a powerful message in a heartfelt and poignant manner. He
has also worked many HOSA chicken dinner fundraisers where he served as
a cook. Cheryl Wooten, Health Science teacher and HOSA Adviser had this
to say about Littleton, “Thomas is one of the finest young men I have
ever taught. I don't believe I've ever seen him without a smile on his
face, a kind word on his lips, or love for others in his heart. I'm more
than privileged to be his teacher and look forward to his many
accomplishments on his journey to immortality.”
Known for his
character, Littleton has played a vital role as part of the leadership
team for Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). He has served in the
capacity of Vice President and currently holds the position of
President. Under his leadership the organization has sponsored outreach
activities including a successful tailgating event during a home
football game. Becky Grasty, math teacher and FCA Sponsor, affirmed
Littleton’s leadership remarking, “I have had the privilege of knowing
Thomas for three years, as a student in Honors Geometry, SCHS FCA
Vice-President last year, and this year's FCA President. His work ethic
in Honors Geometry proved to be top in his class. He has also proven to
be exemplary in his duties of leading our students in Bible study and
sharing his joy and love of God to his classmates. He leads our meetings
with enthusiasm for sharing God's Word, and genuinely loves his fellow
man. I believe Thomas is an excellent leader and a well-deserving
'Student of the Month' of SCHS.”
In recognition of
his academic excellence, Littleton has received two Black and Gold
Awards in Biology I, and Spanish I. A 2016 Cumberland Electric
Membership Corporation (CEMC) essay contest winner, Littleton earned an
all-expense-paid trip to Washington D.C. Selected as a 2016 Tennessee
American Legion Boys State Delegate; Littleton spent a week on the
campus of Tennessee Tech University. The Boys State program allows each
participant to become a part of the operation of his local, county, and
state governments operated by students elected to the various offices.
Littleton was elected as a State Representative.
When asked to reflect on his time at SCHS,
Littleton replied, “My time here has prepared me for my future in that
Stewart County High School is more than just a school. Just look at the
way all the staff at the school treat the kids. They don’t prepare their
students for a higher education, but for life. It’s clear to see it’s
not just a job for the staff; they care for their students and want to
make a difference. My time here has prepared me for whatever career God
leads me to. I don’t want it to be just a job. I want to make a
difference, just like SCHS.”
Thomas is the son of Steve and Susan Littleton.
September Student of the Month—Miranda Parker
Miranda Parker has
been selected by the Stewart County High School (SCHS) faculty as
September Student of the Month for her outstanding academic achievement,
student involvement, and for serving as an exceptional role model for
underclassmen. After high school, Miranda plans to attend either Murray
State University or the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga to
complete a degree in chemical engineering.
Known as a
dedicated student, Parker has maintained a 4.0 grade point average. In
acknowledgment of her academic ability, she has been awarded Black and
Gold Awards in World History, U.S. History, Computer Applications and
Geometry. Lisa Luton, English teacher, affirms Parker’s commitment to
educational pursuits stating, “Miranda is a great example of the balance
between determination and compassion. Her work ethic sets her apart from
her peers; she is always striving to learn more—more than what her
teachers and what the curriculum at SCHS have to offer. Her
determination and success, though, have never once clouded her
down-to-earth kindness. She doesn’t hesitate to offer a helping hand to
anyone, and she genuinely celebrates the success of those around her.”
Parker is a four-year member of FFA where she has
served as Reporter and currently holds the position of Secretary.
Brandon McMillan, Agriculture teacher and FFA Adviser, explains why he
nominated Parker for Student of the Month honors saying, “I nominated
Miranda because she shows great leadership qualities in everything she
does! She gives 110 percent in every class and club in which she is
involved. And, one of her best qualities is she never meets a stranger!”
An active member of the SCHS community, she is also a four-year member
of HOSA: Future Health Professionals, a four-year member of the Spanish
Club, a three-year member of the Math Club, a two-year member of Family,
Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), and a member of Beta.
Parker is also well liked and respected by her peers as she has been
twice chosen as Class Favorite as a freshman and junior. Additionally,
she was voted Homecoming Attendant her junior year and was the 2016
Football Homecoming Queen.
Serving her
community is also important to Parker. Through her affiliation with FFA
she has worked as a Farm Day volunteer. With FCCLA, she has assisted
with elementary school trips to the pumpkin patch. Parker is very
involved at Dyers Creek Church of God where she has helped with the
Completely One Ministry soup kitchen. She is also part of the Creative
Ministries team and has performed with the group at community outreach
events.
Parker has found her time at SCHS meaningful,
remarking, “Stewart County High School has taught me that hard work will
always pay off. It has taught me to do my best at everything I do, and
that it’s never too late to fix things. Most importantly, I have learned
that being a good and nice person is the most rewarding thing in life.”
Miranda is the daughter of Donnie Parker and Joy
Coy.
August Student of the Month—Makayleigh Lackey
Senior, Makayleigh
Lackey, has been chosen by the Stewart County High School (SCHS) faculty
as August Student of the Month for her outstanding academic achievement,
student involvement, and for serving as an exceptional role model for
underclassmen. After high school, Lackey plans to attend a four-year
university.
Lackey is a four-year member of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA),
serving as a local officer for three years and currently serving as
chapter Co-President. Connie Baggett, business teacher and FBLA adviser,
offers high praise for Lackey remarking, “Makayleigh is very goal
oriented and productive in all the areas of her life. Makayleigh has
gone above and beyond in every business class she has taken. She has
competed in Future Business Leaders of America contests for the last
three years. She has excelled in speaking and presentation.
Makayleigh competed at the national level in Chicago and in
Atlanta this past year. She has been a spokesperson for our local and
state FBLA organizations and makes a positive impression every time she
speaks to groups. As a junior, Makayleigh designed a logo for the
Stewart County Chamber of Commerce. This was an outstanding experience
and one she has expanded into being a liaison between FBLA and the
chamber. In addition to her leadership and competitive roles in FBLA,
Makayleigh has been a strong voice for community service projects. They
include: March of Dimes,
Ronald McDonald House, Lights of Love, and our annual canned food drive.
She is a well rounded person who will excel in anything she sets
out to do.”
Lackey is a
four-year member of the Lady Rebels Basketball team. Social studies
teacher and girl’s basketball coach, Gilbert Harper, offers this
assessment of Lackey remarking, “Makayleigh is a great example of the
student athlete. She excels in the classroom and expects nothing less
than perfection. I think the competitiveness in the classroom transfers
to the basketball court. She is an excellent player and is a player who
is a joy to coach. I know when she is in the game she is going to do
whatever she can to help us win.
She is a leader on the court and our players look up to her and
she helps our younger players adjust to the high school game.” Involved
in a variety of activities and organizations Lackey is a three-year
member of Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), a
two-year member of the Spanish Club, and a member of Beta.
In recognition of
her academic excellence, Lackey has received ten Black and Gold Awards
in Biology I, Algebra I, World History, Computer Applications, Geometry,
Digital Business Communications, English II, Algebra II, Introduction to
Business and Marketing, and English III. A 2016 Cumberland
Electric Membership Corporation (CEMC) essay contest winner, Lackey
earned an all-expense-paid trip to Washington D.C. Lackey was also
selected as a 2016 Tennessee American Legion Auxiliary Volunteers Girls
State Delegate, and spent a week on the campus of Lipscomb University in
Nashville. This program allows young women to learn about state
government, as well as how to affect their local communities positively
through active citizenship and informed voting.
Lackey is grateful for her tenure at SCHS stating,
“My time at SCHS has given me countless skills and experiences that have
prepared me for my future. The teachers and staff at SCHS do their best
to ensure that students are prepared for the future. I am thankful to
attend this great school.”
Makayleigh is the daughter of Eric and Chasity
Lackey.