The General Idea A Publication of Washington School

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Greenville, Mississippi

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May 22, 2014

So Long, Seniors!

We all have the same dream once we enter high school—to graduate. We see students enter school and leave school all the time. Then, in the blink of an eye, it’s our turn to take our last walk as students in the halls. On May 16, 2014, we yet again, said farewell to the a senior class as they walked across the stage during graduation for the last time as students to receive their long-awaited diplomas. The first speaker of the commencement, Amira Abbas, delivered her salutatory speech. In her speech, Amira traveled back in time to tell her memorable stories in elementary, middle, and high school with her classmates and ended her speech with saying, “You do you.” Casey Park then gave the valedictory address. Casey discussed the feelings of sadness, fear, and excitement as one endures throughout life. She quoted the creator of Peter Pan and stated, “Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting. We are not saying goodbye to each other because we will never forget those wonderful memories we made at Washington School, we are simply starting a new beginning.” She told her classmates to keep in mind that if we have the spirit and drive, we can accomplish anything our heart desires. The final speaker of the commencement was Mr. William N. LaForge, President of Delta State University. Before returning to his hometown of Cleveland, Mississippi, Mr. LaForge enjoyed a 36-year career, in both the public and private sectors in Washington, DC, that spanned the fields of government, law, business, higher education, and public policy. Mr. LaForge grew up in Cleveland, Mississippi, where he

Salutatorian Amira Abbas

Graduate Ashlee Shelley accepts her diploma from board president, Dr. Stephen Jernigan

attended public schools and graduated with honors from Delta State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He earned his law degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law, received an LL.M. in international law from Georgetown University, and studied international law at Cambridge University. He received fellowships to study government and public policy in the European Union and at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, and he is the recipient of an honorary doctorate of laws from the Stetson University College of Law. In his speech, Mr. LaForge discussed how the years spent at Washington School will help the graduating class in life and the importance of continuing your education as it is the foundation of your career. He also encouraged the students leave high school as “C” students (and no, not the letter grade!); the “C’s” being competence, confidence, commitment, and concern. He said, “Competence in the field you

RUNNING TO BOSTON! I’m sure a majority of you have heard of the Boston Marathon. Well guess what? My teacher,Mrs.Ott, ran in it this year! I’ve asked her a few questions about her Boston experience.

Valedictorian Casey Park

choose to study and the career you choose to pursue, confidence can do the job. Make yourself comfortable, be fearless at what you want to do. And the commitment, the commitment to a cause, the commitment to a purpose. Why did that Guy put you on this earth? And then the 4th “C” is concern. Concern about the people who nurtured you, concern about your neighbors, the world around you.” After Mr. LaForge gave his final words of advice, Headmaster Rodney Brown and Board President Stephen Jernigan presented the Class of 2014 with their diplomas. It is now time for the class to leave Washington School and go their separate ways as they enter into a world of infinite opportunities that await them. Brandy Truong, Class of 2017 THE GENERAL IDEA

Elementary Teacher Lauren Ott Represents Us Well in Boston! Students Give Her A Big Send-Off With Cheers and Support

Me: Were you frightened to run in the marathon because of last year’s events? Mrs.Ott: No, Not at all, because I don’t live in fear of what could happen. Me: How long did the marathon last? Me: What inspired you to run in the marathon? Mrs. Ott: 3 hours and 54 minutes, which was one Mrs.Ott: I’ve been training to run marathons and of my slower marathons..I was just running to have this is the ultimate goal for a marathoner, to run fun and experience the race. Boston. Me: What was the city of Boston like?

Mrs. Ott: I loved it! We got to take the train all over the city. We ate lots of good food and we went to the aquarium. In my opinion, this was a great accomplishment. Not only for Mrs.Ott but for the thousands of others. And who knows? Maybe you could be in the Boston Marathon one day! Peyton Melton, Class of 2021 for THE GENERAL IDEA

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The General Idea

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A Publication of Washington School

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Greenville, Mississippi

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May 22, 2014

In Memoriam

Susan Scott Blaine

In 1987, the WS yearbook was formally dedicated to Mrs. Susan Blaine, a teacher that had been with Washington School since the very beginning. In the dedication, it reads, " Henry Brock Adams once wrote, 'A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.' Here at Washington School, we have one such teacher—-a woman who has touched some part of each of our lives…No finer teacher or Washington School supporter can be found. Her virtues range from considerate, devoted, and dedicated to supportive, punctual, and organized. With deep respect, love and admiration, we dedicate the 1986 Sabre to Mrs. Susan Blaine, for she has indeed earned this honor." The dedication couldn’t have been more truthful. Mrs. Susan Blaine, you will be missed and forever remembered for your 44, and almost 45, years at Washington School. Below are comments from some of the current students, former students, and faculty about Mrs. Susan Blaine and our unfortunate loss: Mrs. Blaine was a friend to me; someone I could ask advice from and someone I cared deeply about. She was someone I could count and depend on. I was comfortable in a way that I was with my own mother, who died when I was a young age. She would have been around Mrs. Blaine’s age now. So, I looked at her the same way I would look at my mother. I could talk to her about anything; it didn’t even have to be about school. It doesn’t seem real. I came out of my classroom several times today to talk to her, but I would stop and just realize that she was gone. I keep expecting her to come back to school next week, but she won’t. I miss her. ---Stefanie Jarrett                                                    The first thing I hear when I think of her is ‘Get that book out of your hand, Alexandria.’ She was a kind woman who I liked to have conversations with that weren’t always about algebra. She was a wonderful lady that will be missed terribly. Her presence is still in the classroom and still in the school. ---Alexandria McCaskill                                                                                                                          She was a nice person. I remember how she had her nails, her lipstick, and her outfit matching every day. She was a great teacher and absolutely hated when we chewed gum. ---Miranda Johnson                                                           I’m going to miss how funny she was. You could never predict what would come out of her. No matter what anyone may say, she was a great teacher. That’s the honest truth. When I think of Mrs. Blaine, I think of Snoopy and Charlie Brown. I’m definitely going to miss her. ---Mary Kathryn Wicker                                                           Mrs. Blaine? She was a great educator. She cared deeply about her students and will be missed. I can remember her love for the Peanuts. You know, Snoopy, Charlie Brown…---Ryan Chunn                                                           She was the best teacher, like, ever. She always got mine and my sister’s name mixed up. I loved how her nails matched with every outfit she ever wore. I’m going to miss her a lot. She was always happy and it’s depressing she’s gone. ---Alyssa Johnson                                                          Great lady. She was very easy to work with and very knowledgeable of her subject matter. Susan Blaine was helpful too. It was great to have her here. She’d help me with any question I had. Our math department has a serious loss now. I didn’t know her too well, but I’ll always remember her clock that’d chirp like birds and always catch me off guard. ---William Ray                                                  I'd known Susan Scott Blaine my entire life. I grew up in Trinity Methodist Church, where she was also a member. She and her family were present for many of my earliest childhood memories. Fast forward to Solomon Junior High; she was my 7th grade math teacher! Susan was the last effective math teacher I ever had. (I should have taken her class twice.) Fast forward again to Washington School. Susan taught both of my boys. She was a tough teacher, but they loved and respected her. I enjoyed teaching two doors down from her classroom; any time I walked by her door, the classroom was overflowing with children. Susan Blaine was a model of patience and perseverance to each of them. ---Mel Tucker Rest in peace to an amazing woman, Mrs Susan Blaine. I loved you, my brothers loved you, all your students and anyone that ever met you loved you. I'll never forget the way your lipstick never failed to match your nail polish. Washington School lost an amazing teacher and Washington County lost an amazing person. You will be greatly missed!—-Catie Gillison Today we lost a beautiful woman inside and out. Mrs. Susan Blaine was not only the BEST teacher I've ever had, but she was a part of my family. From pestering her during break to having our "lunch bunch" that annoyed Mrs. Raddin in the halls, Room 17 holds some of my dearest memories from high school and I have her to thank for that. I pray that you continue to watch over Madeleine Hendrix and myself from Heaven where I know your hair stands high and your nails match your lipstick. We love you and will miss you every day. ---Lauren Chambers I cannot believe the loss Greenville, MS, is feeling today. Mrs. Susan Blaine was one the best teachers I have had in my life. No doubt I wouldn't be where I am without her. She taught me the basics of math, and what a disservice if I didn't have an A to this day. She was a beautiful woman inside and out. I could never forget those nifty automatic staplers, mancala, and of course her genuine care for our happiness and education. —- Rakhee Khambhati There is nothing words can say that match the greatness of this woman. She was the first teacher that saw something in me and pushed me everyday. She had taught my entire family and will be greatly missed. Thank you, Mrs. Blaine for some of the greatest years of my life. —-Gunnar Kelly I know you’re in a much better place now Mrs. Blaine, but you will forever be missed and loved. I didn't know that coming home a few weekends ago was going to be the last time I saw you. Glad I got to give you that last goodbye hug. You were one of Washington School’s favorites and will never be forgotten. RIP, Mrs. Blaine. —-Anne Langdon Ray Just can't really believe you're gone, Mrs. Blaine. You were so much help to me as I grew up in your classes from 8th grade and up. Your classes were always my favorite time of the day just because we got each other when no one else would ever understand! You were the best teacher and my favorite teacher of all and you can't be replaced. Can't believe the last time I saw you was when you were walking your Marlo and we stopped for a quick chat. Never would have thought that was the last time. You taught all your students how to be happy in life and with your surroundings! You will truly be missed, Mrs. Blaine. Lots of love!—-Katie Beth Lott During my time at Washington School, Susan Blaine held a special place in my heart. She always made me feel welcome outside of class, even just to eat lunch and play chess. She was an inspiration to generations of students, and her legacy will live on through the lives she touched, including my own. ---Andrew Tucker

SUSAN SCOTT BLAINE November 26, 1946 - April 18, 2014

Julia Jarrett, Class of 2017 THE GENERAL IDEA

The General Idea

THE GENERAL IDEA Thursday, May 22, 2014

Editors-at-Large Casey Park Nat Phan Contributing Writers Abby Driggers Julia Jarrett Peyton Melton Abby Miles Mr. Vince Stroup Brandy Truong Adviser Mrs. Melanie Tucker ••• Headmaster Mr. Rodney D. Brown Secondary Principal Mr. Alto Hilliard Ray Elementary Principal Dr. Nan Johnson Academic Dean Mrs. Kerry Sullivan

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A Publication of Washington School

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Greenville, Mississippi

Goodbyes are Not the End

I knew that senior year was going to go by very quickly, but I didn't know that it was going to go by this fast. I can't believe that I have graduated and am heading out on my own. The thought sends chills down my spine and makes me look forward to what my future holds in store for me. It wasn't until the band spring concert in April that I realized high school was almost over for me. I am really going to miss performing with the band and I am never going to forget about all the memories made in band with my fellow band nerds! After performing in the band for seven years, I cannot stress the importance of music education. Music education is different than just regular classes because people get to express themselves not only by talking but by playing on their instruments and sharing the music with others. I encourage everone to challenge themselves and begin something totally different from their normal routines. I am not saying or forcing people to be in band although I wish for the band to grow, but I want people to realize that music education will change some people's lives in a wonderful way. Also what's better than playing in the band during Friday night football games! My band experience has impacted me greatly, and I am so sad that we are losing a wonderful band director next year. Mr. White has done tremendous work and demonstrated great patience. Mr. Burgos also helped out so much with the drum line, and I hope he continues to do that next year. Altogether my high school experience was like a roller coaster ride, I have no doubt that my classmates and other students couldn't help agreeing on this: there were some good times as well as bad times but I know that I couldn't have made it through high school without my family, teachers and friends. I want to express my gratitude to all of my teachers who have taught me in high school as well as middle and elementary school. I will never forget their presence and lectures and I want them to know that they will always be in a special place in my heart. I cannot express more thanks to Mrs. Melanie Tucker for guiding me and helping me throughout high school. She has stood by me since my freshman year and I don't know what I would have done without her. I can't forget to mention my family's support. Without my family's presence, I would not be where I am today. I know there are so many more adventures waiting for me in future years and I hope to achieve my goal of becoming a successful physician, but I want to become the individual that my teachers and family raised me to become. I want send a big shout out to the rest of my classmates---congratulations, and we did it!! Congrats class of 2014! We have come a long way! Casey Park, Class of 2014 THE GENERAL IDEA

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May 22, 2014

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Mr. Stroup Says: To My Students: THE END HAS FINALLY COME… of the school year I mean, sorry if the all caps threw you off. As the summer months approach many of you will spend time with family and friends and possibly go on adventures either far away or locally. As you venture forth into your well-deserved break I would like to say something that to many of you may seem like old hat. I would like to remind you to show love this summer. When you hear or read that word, love, many of you may think of sentimentality, hugs, crying, heartshaped boxes of chocolates, etc. We know love can involve these things but it is not limited to them. Because, as you know, love is primarily an action, not just an emotion, though emotion can certainly be a part of it. So this summer I challenge you to show love to others every day. Some of you may think this easy, while some of you may view it as rather difficult. The truth is, at times, it can be both. Regardless, remember to show love for the right reasons. It’s not about getting applause, accolades, rewards, or even feeling good that you did something for someone. Those things may come and its alright if they do, but they should never be your goal. Your goal should be to help the other person because there is a need and you can help, whether or not they can ever pay you back, thank you, or if anyone notices. The best part is that this can be done anywhere, whether you go far away or stay in your hometown this summer. Love doesn’t have to be something grand and amazing, it can be as simple as giving someone a cup of water. Although you never know, a person who receives a cup of water might think it grand and amazing, because sadly many people don’t experience true love on a regular basis. Wherever you go and whatever you do this summer, take love with you, you never know how it might change someone’s life. And don’t worry if no one thanks you, that’s not what it’s about. The greatest example of love took place on a gloomy day two millennia ago, when Someone paid a great debt for all humanity, knowing that some would never thank Him. And His love continues to this day, which helps us to continue even in adversity. Take love with you this summer and bring it back with you this fall, and you might be surprised how things or even people change. Love, Mr. Stroup Vince Stroup teaches all Washington School 8th grade students in Latin studies.

Washington School Hosts

Special Olympics In the photo above, torchbearer Eddie Buie began the 2014 Area 9 Special Olympics on Huddleston Field. With 143 athletes and 150 volunteers, Special Olympics director Melanie Sanders said it was a very successful event. After two weather delays, the event was finally held on April 11, and WS students were in the bleachers and on the field to help cheer on the participants. WS has hosted the event for a number of years with help from the Kiwanis Club and the WS Key Club. WS

Mr. Stroup is an awesome teacher!

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The General Idea

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A Publication of Washington School

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Greenville, Mississippi

The Last Will and Testament of

The Class of 2014

Following the theme of “lasts,” for my last newspaper article in the last 2014 issue of The General Idea, a few students in the Class of 2014 participated in leaving their Last Will and Testaments as yet another goodbye to the school. I, Walker Coleman, being of determined mind and athletic body do hereby leave my love for high school sports to Ben Angel, Ross Jernigan, Walt Stubbs, and Michael Bruton, as well as my ability to hunt.

Students Brave the Cold

I, Courtney Fontenot, being of positive mind and cheerful body, do hereby leave my passenger, Molly Fontenot, to Mallory Fontenot, as well as my ability Bracing the freezing water is totally acceptable, to jam out every day going to school. right? We all look forward to jumping in lakes, ponds, or pools, especially if it’s 40 degrees outside I, Michaela Kelly, being of a Young Money Cash (not to mention the water that makes you feel like Money mind and long-legged body, do hereby leave you are in an icebox). my daily complaints of basketball practice to MerThis new social media trend(titled the 24-Hour edith Etheridge, as well as my ability to never turn Cold Water Challenge) is thrilling, scary, and downdown, and to have no "ragrets." right fun, the best part being that it’s all for little Madi Rodgers of Grundy County, Tennessee, who I, Casey Park, being of open mind and tired body, suffers from juvenile diabetes. do hereby leave my obsession for Benedict CumberThe world was introduced to 2-year-old Madi batch to Mary Ashton Everitt, as well as my ability through a facebook page. Madi’s mom, Courtney, to lead the band. started the page challenging others to either jump into the frigid water or donate to the toddler, so the I, Galen Phillips, being of OCD mind and sleepy family can afford a service dog. The object of the body, do hereby leave my excessive absences to Mad- game is to say who you were challenged by, then tag elyn Miller, as well as my ability to take naps. three people whom you want to challenge and then plunge into the chilled water. The three people you I, Tyler Owens, being of great mind and big body, dared either have to do the challenge or pay twentydo hereby leave multiple tubs of protein to Landon five dollars towards the charity. Many have uploaded Zepponi, as well as my ability to lift heavy weights. their challenges on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter all with scared, but excited faces. I, Ben Tarver, being of sarcastic mind and sought- This challenge has spread across the country, and the after body, do hereby leave sincerest apologies to students here at Washington School are no excepMrs. Stephens, as well as my ability to crush school tion. Many students have posted their videos and tardy records. photos onto the Internet and there are more uploading every day! If you want to look at some of the I, Riggs Ware, being of great mind and sexy body, thousands of videos, you can either type in #coldwado hereby leave my swag and awesomeness to Tom terchallenge on Instagram, or search 24-Hour Cold Scott, as well as my ability to twerk and bounce it. Water Challenge on Twitter. I also have completed this challenge and the anticipation before jumping And finally: into the water is indescribable. I got out of the water unharmed, but others here at Washington School I, Nat Phan, being of negative mind and slow-mov- weren’t as lucky. ing body, do hereby leave the yearbook to Brandy Carson Branton, an eighth grader here at WashTruong, as well as my ability to procrastinate on ev- ington School, wasn’t expecting pain as much as he ery responsibility bestowed upon me.

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May 22, 2014

on April Fool’s Day and still have a broken leg on April 2nd ? But seriously---he broke both his tibia and fibula, and the tibia also spilt up the middle and shifted forward. Because of the remote location of the catfish ponds, his family called an ambulance. He was put in a twilight sleep upon arriving to the hospital, and was then taken to put on a casting splint. The following day he had a cat scan of his ankle/ leg, then headed to surgery. After his surgery, he was put into a recovery room then was allowed to leave the hospital. He did great, and left with 3 permanent screws and a cast! We asked Carson his take on the story and he responded with “My dad has always farmed catfish and row crops so I’ve grown up on those fishponds and I’ve been jumping in them for as long as I can remember. The catfish ponds are usually a lot deeper. The day I jumped in, it was knee-deep! I can’t put weight on my foot for six weeks or I’ll shatter the bone again.” Lesson learned. Abby Driggers, Class of 2017 THE GENERAL IDEA

He doesn't seem to mind the chauffeur service at school!

Nat Phan, Class of 2014 THE GENERAL IDEA

Carson faces a different kind of challenge after his jump!

Riggs and his swag!

anticipated a thrill when completing the 24-Hour Cold Water Challenge on March 31. If there’s a prize for the challenge, he wins! Carson leaped into the water at his family's catfish pond (which was thought to be chest deep) only to end up being knee deep. His weight was pushed onto his right ankle, which broke both of the bones in his right leg. How many kids can that say they broke their leg

With the help of veterans from American Legion Post 32, Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts from Troop 43, and GFD engine #7, our elementary students retired some American flags in the baja. It's important to teach young people the proper respect for our nation's flag. WS

The General Idea

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A Publication of Washington School

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Greenville, Mississippi

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May 22, 2014

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Students in the entire elementary school collected supplies for the Leland Animal Shelter this month. Donations of blankets, towels, bleach, and dog food CONGRATULATIONS to the varsity boys' 4 X 100 relay team. They are the filled the foyer by the elementary office. Mrs. Lacy Hite's fourth grade class is AAA State Champs! The relay team consists of Dominick Trinca, Parker Nichols, Landon Zepponi, and Bobby Elliott. They are coached by Mr. Jack Sudpictured with the donations that were collected in only one week's time. doth.

Writers in Training This year’s Washington School journalism class attended the Mississippi Scholastic Press Association’s 68th annual convention. With over 650 students and teachers present, the gathering was a huge success. We were presented with over 40 diverse sessions to help us grow in our journalistic abilities. The convention started off with a keynote speech from Mr. David Rae Morris. The son of noted Mississippi author Willie Morris, he was born in Oxford, England, while his father was in residence as a Rhodes Scholar. After eventually moving to New York City and later New Orleans, he became a very successful photographer and videographer. And after enjoying a very interesting speech, we were off to begin our day. From News Writing to Photoshop, we were taught many new methods to help our staff back at school. The classes held new concepts and information that we were able take part in learning. The sessions were incredibly helpful, and I learned many new things to apply in our own personal journalism projects. Not only were the teachers great, but the Ole Miss student body was very welcoming as well and willing to answer any questions we asked.            After attending the sessions, we gathered back in the auditorium for closing ceremonies. Washington School’s yearbook staff was presented with awards in Multimedia Integration, Table of Contents, Clubs and Organizations Photography, Sports Copy, Student Life Photography, Academic Photography. I couldn't be more proud to be a part of the Washington School journalism team, and I can't wait to return to Ole Miss next year to represent our school and hopefully bring back more awards to share.

Accolades Are in Order

Elementary students who earned academic and service awards were honored at a special assembly in Sykes Hall on Thursday, May 15. Sixteen students were named to the Million Word club, and their banners will be posted in the front of the school for all to enjoy next year. Special awards were presented to fifth grade students, as the assembly serves as their "graduation" from elementary school before taking the big leap to middle school. WS

Abby Miles, Class of 2017 THE GENERAL IDEA

Catherine Copell GEORGIE FISHER AWARD

Attending the 2014 MSPA Convention in Oxford were Julia Jarrett, Abby Driggers, Brandy Truong, Casey Park, Nat Phan, and Abby Miles. Their sponsor was Mrs. Melanie Tucker.

John Chandler Lyles SUARES SCIENCE AWARD

Meri Madison George ED MOORE AWARD

The President's Education Award was given to (front) Reed Howe, John Chandler Lyles, Eric Park, Nick Browning; (back) Victoria Mantz, Meri Madison George, Mark Hooker, Henry Potter, Hardy Cooke, Alyssa Dang, and Grace Ward. The award was based on high achievement test scores.

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The General Idea

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A Publication of Washington School

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Greenville, Mississippi

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May 22, 2014

Highlights from Middle School, High School, and Senior Awards.. .see the full list of honors and photos in the 2014 Sabre. It will be delivered the first week of August!

W.of W. History Award BARRIE WRIGHT

Mary Elizabeth Oakes Memorial Enthusiasm Award EMMA KATE MILLWOOD and TAYLOR HOWE

Conwell Sykes Courtesy Award ZACH ZEPPONI and ALEX GLASCO

Latin Award JOHN FRED NICHOLS

W.of W. History Award JOHN WILTCHER

Band Awards: MARY ASHTON EVERITT, LOGAN SWAIN, REED TURNER, and CASEY PARK

Myra C. Raddin General Spirit Award BREE TICE

Perfect Attendance FAISAL MOHAMMED

Beta Club Award BRINKLEY HENRY

President's Education Award: AMIRA ABBAS, NELSON KING, ABIGAIL JERNIGAN,WILL COLLUM, MICHELLE FINN, ZACH HARRIS, ALEX FRATESI, AUSTIN RODGERS, MERI FLEMING, and CASEY PARK (Not pictured: AMOS NOYES)

American Legion Award AUSTIN RODGERS

Hugh O'Brien Award CALEIGH HAYNES

D.A.R. Good Citizenship Medal WILL COLLUM

STAR Teacher Karen Swain STAR Student Amira Abbas

Charles M. Baker Drama Award BOBBY ELLIOTT and LEA MERRILL PUGH