December 2024 Issue

Sports

Making Waves: Grissom Swim and Dive Team Wraps Up a Successful Season

By: Seanna Kennamer

     As the fall sports season wraps up, Grissom High School’s athletes have made some remarkable memories and accomplished many things, demonstrating their impressive athletic ability. Our Swim and Dive team is finishing their season, and as we reflect on this season, we wanted to talk to a senior swimmers and divers to get insight into how their seasons truly went. We spoke to Adam Hill, a member of the Grissom Swim team, to see how their season is going as they lead up to state championships.

Interviewer: “How would you describe the atmosphere of the swim team?”
Hill: “The swim team is a close-knit group of people. We all work together to support each other and improve the team as a whole. We like to do team-bonding activities. We like to go out to eat before swim meets, and our coaches are very supportive of all of us. It’s a really good atmosphere that I like to be a part of as someone who has been on this team for five years.”

Interviewer: “As the season is wrapping up, how would you say this past season went?”
Hill: “I’d say we’ve had a pretty good season. We don’t know if we’ve won state yet, but most likely that is going to Huntsville. They just have more swimmers, which can be hard for us. It can be hard to go against such a big swim team when we are a smaller team but are ranked as a 7A school. We do have some great swimmers going to state, and they’ve improved a lot over this season. Many of them have hit personal records, which is a big deal. Swimming isn’t always about the team; you are racing against your time.”

Interviewer: “Are there any star swimmers that have stood out this season?”
Hill: “Some pretty good swimmers that we have are Parker Barnett. He is one of the swimmers who has made it to state and has improved a lot over the season. He devotes a lot of his time to swimming. Another good swimmer is Christian Alderson. He’s done a great job this season with personal improvement and relays. He is one of our really fast swimmers. Walt Cooper is another really good one. They all are in HSA and devote a lot of time to swimming, and it shows in their performance. Another good swimmer is Lydia Buechler. She is a very good swimmer. She is a distance swimmer, which you don’t see a lot; you see more sprinters. But she is very good at what she does. Anna Henrikson is really good, as well as Mae Watkins, Kara Jones, Kiera Young, Allie Spink, Mark Crook, and Greg Dickens. These are all of our swimmers who have made it to state. It is pretty hard to make it to state as far as a 7A school goes. Making it to state is a big deal.”

Interviewer: “Since you are a senior and it’s your last year, how do you feel about your role as part of the swim team?”
Hill: “I am not gonna lie, I’m not the best swimmer, but I am a good swimmer. I would consider myself to be someone who supports and cheers on other people and helps keep the swim team together. I like to focus on standing near the lanes and cheering them on when they’re swimming because even if you can’t hear it, it’s still good to know you have someone there cheering for you. I feel like that is part of my purpose on my team. Even if they’re not on my team, I like to cheer them on as well. It’s not so much about hating the other team but cheering everyone on and making everyone do the best they can.”

Interviewer: “Are y’all ready for state?”
Hill: “I would say we are ready for state. We have some great swimmers on our state team this year. They practice countless hours every day and devote a lot of time to it. It takes a lot of work and commitment. We’ve got some great relays going out, great swimmers, and great individual events. I am excited to see what the results are.”

We also interviewed Sydney Maples from the dive team to see how the dive team is going as they lead up to the state championships.

Interviewer: “How would you describe the dive team and the atmosphere of the team?”
Maples: “We are actually really close. I love being on the dive team, even with the Huntsville kids because we dive with Huntsville, but we are all really close. We make fun of each other and cheer each other on—it’s really nice. We always say, ‘You can do that dive! Even if it’s really hard, you can do it. I know you can.’ Our coach encourages us and wants us to do the best we can. It’s really fun to be there, and I am really glad I joined. I love all the people I’ve met.”

Interviewer: “How would you sum up this past season?”
Maples: “I would sum it up as pretty good. A bunch of us have gotten new dives—dives we needed to learn. We have gotten a lot better. Last year, we were at Richard Showers because the Legacy pool was closed. Since we’re back at Legacy, we have the tools that help us conquer our fear of difficult dives. I’ve struggled with some dives for a long time, like a mental block. Everyone has been super nice. We did a Secret Santa with all the girls, and we always support each other at meets. We will all be there for state. It’s been a really good year.”

Interviewer: “Have there been any star divers who have stepped up this year?”
Maples: “For the boys, I would say Casey Sapp. He’s a really good diver, and he knows he’s good. He dives year-round, competes in high school, and was even on the news earlier this year. For the girls, I would say Lanie Salvail and Peyton Lambert. They’ve worked really hard and are so graceful when they dive. They just whip out these flips and it’s super cool.”

Interviewer: “You are a senior, and I know you are newer to the dive team, but how have you established your place on the team?”
Maples: “I feel like I just made good friends with them. Last year was a bit awkward because I didn’t know anyone, but I got to know them. I was only there on B-days last year, but now I’m there on both     A-days and B-days. I talk to the coaches all the time and have gotten closer with everybody. They do a lot of little things for the seniors. It was tough at first last year, but we’ve all bonded. It’s all about making friends on the team.”

Interviewer: “What do you want Grissom students to know about diving?”
Maples: “I feel like we get grouped with swimming a lot, but Swim and Dive are really different sports. We’re in different pools and do different things. Even if you haven’t dived before, you can join the team. Our coach will teach you, and it’s so much fun. Peyton Lambert had never dived before but joined her freshman year and is amazing now. I had only done summer league, but my diving skills have improved a lot since joining. Our school representative, Coach Brown, is also great. Our coaches are understanding and care about our well-being. If you’re hurt, they’ll make sure you take a break and recover. I highly recommend joining the dive team—it’s so much fun!”

 

End of Season Reflections: Cross Country’s Strong Finish

By: Seanna Kennamer

     Another fall sport that has recently finished its season is Cross Country. We talked to one of the seniors on the team, Lucy McManus, to get insight into how the Cross Country team did this season.

Interviewer: “How would you describe the atmosphere of the Cross Country team?”
McManus: “I think our team is pretty close. We’ve grown a lot closer this year just because we’ve faced a lot of trials this year. So we’ve grown closer as a team and we’ve bonded more. We’ve done a lot of things outside of practice. Of course, we’ve tried to do things like team nights and team dinners, but I feel like we’ve done them more this year, so we’ve been a very close team this year.”

Interviewer: “How would you sum up this season since it’s just now ending?”
McManus: “I think we did pretty well. We had a lot of injuries this year, but everyone bounced back pretty well. Everyone put in their all, and everyone got the results they were expecting from what they put in. A lot of people have also run their best times that they’ve ever run, so it was a good season overall.”

Interviewer: “Are there any star teammates that have stepped up this season?”
McManus: “We have very few seniors on our team, only about four. But, stepping up and leading would be Emily Tran and Ryan Hoy. They led the team more and united us more. For star runners and people who have had their best season and stood out, I would say Jacob. He has put in a lot of effort, and he is really fast, and you can see the results from that effort.”

Interviewer: “As a senior, how did you establish your place on the team, and how are you feeling now that it’s over?”
McManus: “I am really sad that this season is over. I feel like this is one of the best seasons that I have ever had. I don’t know if it was because I was a senior or if it was the people on the team and the environment that we’ve created together, but I am definitely disappointed that it’s ending. For me personally, I think this season helped me step out more as a leader and be more personable and get to know the people on the team more. I am grateful for this experience.”

Interviewer: “What do you want Grissom students to know about Cross Country?”
McManus: “I would say that it sounds intimidating but is really a lot of fun. And yes, Cross Country is different from Track, so we run longer distances, which sounds intimidating, but it’s really not. Cross Country is a fall sport, and Track is a spring sport. We run different distances, and we run around a course. It’s really beautiful, and we’ve been to a lot of beautiful places. If you are new to running, you don’t have to worry about that when joining the team. We are just happy to have you. You don’t have to be one of the very best runners we have; we just want people to be out here and have fun.”

Fine Arts

Grissom Choir’s Winter Concert and Its Protests for the Future

By: Ava Cahue

     Grissom Choir is excited to announce its upcoming “Winter Concert,” welcoming the holidays on December 10th! This event will take place in Grissom’s Martha DeFord Hayes Auditorium at 7 p.m. and will celebrate the season with 21 classic pieces, inspiring heartwarming holiday cheer in its audience and students. Students may attend for $5 and adults for $10.

     Grissom Chamber Choir’s “Christmas Cantata” joint concert is also upcoming at 7 p.m. on December 16th at First Christian Church in Huntsville. This performance will feature not only Grissom’s Chamber Choir but also a double brass choir accompanying them in performing Daniel Pinkham’s “Sinfonia Sacra” (Sacred Symphony). This highly esteemed piece features three movements varying in style and tempo, standing as a monument to 20th-century choral expression.

     Grissom’s four choirs have been putting great care and effort into preparing for these concerts, working to provide music that will touch the hearts of listeners. Each piece is selected and rigorously rehearsed for months in preparation for the events, with some pieces even arranged by Grissom’s very own choral director, Tucker Ratcliff. While expanding their choral and musical horizons, every choir’s aim is to communicate the love of music—something that shares warmth in its own sense.

     On a more serious note, the love of music is crucial to the Grissom Choir community. This has led many students and Tucker Ratcliff to speak out against future plans for a “Pure Block” schedule at Grissom. Grissom’s Choir program is well known throughout the Huntsville City School system for having some of the most outstanding choirs, and it’s become apparent that implementing a Pure Block system at Grissom would obstruct not just the choirs’ abilities to excel but also other programs at Grissom. Devoted students would have to allocate half of their electives to choir, and those also taking sports or other year-round electives would face an already-full schedule. Unlike other schools on Pure Block, Grissom has twice as many choirs and a vast array of electives; Pure Block could potentially limit learning opportunities and variety in students’ high school careers. Tucker Ratcliff has been adamant in voicing this concern to the Grissom Choral Parent’s Association and his classes, urging students to speak out to HCS for the sake of their futures.

     Grissom has its own unique student body and should not be forced to change in the face of immense pushback from the school itself. Please speak out, support your school and its values, and join us in supporting Grissom Choir in its efforts for a better education.

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Grissom Theatre’s Going to State: A Busy Month Ahead

By: Lisa Beth Coble

     Last month, during the first weekend of November, Grissom Theatre attended the District 1 Trumbauer Theatre Competition at James Clemens High School. On Friday, Grissom’s Advanced Theatre class performed the one-act play “Badger” by Don Zolidis for a panel of judges. The next day, theatre students from all of Grissom’s theatre classes competed with scenes, songs, and technical presentations, all hoping to advance to the state competition held at the University of North Alabama in Florence. Grissom Theatre represented our school with pride and achieved great success!

     On that Friday morning, Grissom’s Advanced Theatre class woke up early, not to prepare for a school day, but to perform! The class had the second slot in the one-act competition. Despite any nerves or distractions, the actors delivered an outstanding performance that earned a positive reaction from the audience. The room was filled with gasps, applause, and laughter—proof that their hard work had paid off and they told a compelling, believable story. Afterward, the cast quickly packed up the set and costumes, then joined the audience for the rest of the day. Although they were uncertain about the outcome, the cast felt proud of their performance, believing it was their best show yet.

     The following Saturday, students from Grissom’s Theatre and Technical Theatre classes competed with scenes and presentations in front of 2-3 adjudicators, hoping to be selected for the state competition. The competition started at 9 a.m. and lasted until around 3 p.m., leaving students exhausted. Despite the lengthy day, the students stayed entertained thanks to the host, James Clemens High School, who kept the theater buzzing with karaoke and dancing during the long wait for awards.

     When the awards ceremony finally began at 5:30 p.m., Grissom Theatre’s students were on edge, eagerly awaiting results. In total, Grissom had 45 individual events selected to move on to state, meaning these students earned superior scores that were high enough to qualify them above others in their categories. This achievement is something to be extremely proud of!

     As the awards ceremony continued, the Advanced Theatre class anxiously awaited the results for their one-act play. With only two plays advancing from the district, the competition was fierce. Their one-act, “Badger”, earned superior scores, and five actors were nominated for All-Star Cast Awards. Although “Badger” was not initially chosen to advance to state, the cast felt proud of their work. They just had to wait until Monday for the possibility of being selected as a “wildcard.” A “wildcard” slot is offered when fewer than 14 one-acts advance to state. Schools that receive superior ratings despite not being passed on to state can be considered for this second chance to perform.

     That Monday evening, Grissom Theatre received the exciting news that “Badger” had been chosen for a wildcard slot at the state Trumbauer competition, meaning they will perform in Florence after all! The one-act cast will perform Friday morning, December 6, and individual events will compete all day Saturday, December 7. Grissom Theatre has a lot to look forward to!

     When our students return late on Saturday night, many will jump straight into technical rehearsals for The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, directed by Grissom’s own Olivia Hall and Emma Thornton. Performances will take place at the Martha DeFord Hayes Auditorium on December 14 at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., and December 15 at 2 p.m. Be sure to come out and support our theatre students, who have worked tirelessly to bring this holiday classic to life.

     Grissom Theatre may be busy, but they continue to impress audiences with their dedication to creating incredible performances!

All Star Cast Recipients (left to right) Lisa Beth Coble, Rei Palmer, Emily Yant, and Andrew Boyle. Not Pictured: Ann Spangenberg
Photo courtesy of AJ Walk Photography
Photo courtesy of AJ Walk Photography
Photo courtesy of AJ Walk Photography

JROTC and Raider Team Spotlight

Strength, Strategy, and Teamwork: Inside the JROTC Raider Team

By: Seanna Kennamer and Anna Wheeler

     At Grissom High School, the JROTC Raider Team stands as a symbol of resilience, teamwork, and personal development. Often misconceived as solely military-focused, the program offers much more, preparing students for life beyond high school through physical challenges, mental toughness, and a deep commitment to community service. We spoke with Battalion Commander Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Danna Cruz, the Female Raider Team Commander Cali Unite, and Male Raider Team Commander Jacob Cox to gain insight into the basic functions of the team and what being a Raider means to them.

     The Raider Team is an elite unit within JROTC, designed to push cadets to their physical and mental limits while emphasizing the importance of teamwork. Female Team Commander Cali Unite describes it as “a competitively challenging team where we help members build teamwork skills while pushing them through intense physical events.” Male Team Commander Jacob Cox adds, “One term we like to use is ‘you’re only as good as your slowest man,’ so you have to build everybody up equally.”

     The team is divided into male and female squads, each led by dedicated commanders (Cox and Unite). These leaders not only lead training, but also help strategize for competitions. Competition events include team runs, rope bridge challenges, and simulated rescue missions. Unite explains, “The rope bridge simulates real-life scenarios like crossing a river or carrying an injured teammate, emphasizing both physical skill and strategic thinking.”

     Training for the Raider Team is intense and requires members to be in great physical shape, as well as a level of mental sharpness. Overseen by Master Sergeant Hamilton, training sessions focus heavily on cardio and strength training, tailored to upcoming competitions. Cox explains, “For a cross-country rescue (CCR) event, we train harder than the competition demands so we can be prepared for any challenge.”

     Competitions are grueling yet rewarding. The team recently participated in a two-day championship in Georgia, facing events like the gauntlet, CCR, team runs, rope bridge, and a PTT event. One male and one female also participated in the “Ultimate Raider” challenge—a solo event involving a total of six events, one of which is a 1.5-mile run with weighted rucksacks. Beyond the physical tests, these events foster deep bonds. “You really grow close with these people since you’re facing mentally and physically challenging situations together,” Unite says.

     The Raider Team’s achievements are impressive. At their recent championship, the female squad placed fifth overall, contributing to a total of five trophies. However, the team’s ambitions extend beyond winning. “We want to bring the team closer together and challenge ourselves more,” Unite explains. They aim to restore Grissom’s reputation as a top Raider team, planning to host a local competition to showcase their skills to their peers and the community. Battalion Commander Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Danna Cruz shares, “We want Grissom to see the effort we put in and inspire more students to join.” Cox adds that teams from as far as Florida are expected to compete in their upcoming local event.

     JROTC at Grissom High is about more than physical endurance and drill-like routines. The program shapes well-rounded citizens by emphasizing community involvement and leadership. “Our main goal is to motivate young people to be better citizens,” Cruz explains. Cadets volunteer for community service projects, such as feeding the homeless, and participate in events like Veterans Day parades. At the Veteran’s Day Program at Grissom, they paid tribute to the Druin family who was recently affected by tragedy, demonstrating their support for one of their own.

     The program also exposes students to various career paths. Guest speakers from the FBI, National Guard, and trade schools provide insights into different professions, showing cadets that opportunities extend beyond the military. “We want our cadets to see all the possibilities that lie ahead,” Cruz emphasizes.

     While discipline and responsibility are central to JROTC, the program also emphasizes camaraderie and fun. Cadets recently held a fundraiser, raising over $250 for charity, with a playful twist: contributors earned the chance to pie their leaders in the face. Events like these foster a sense of community and make the program enjoyable.

     When asked what the most rewarding part of being a member of the Raider Team, the consensus was personal growth and teamwork. “It’s incredible to see new members transform from unsure beginners to confident teammates,” says Unite. Cox agrees, adding, “Winning is motivating, but seeing yourself and your team progress and bond is the real reward.”

     Grissom’s JROTC Raider Team isn’t just about physical challenges or military preparation—it’s about developing future leaders. Whether through competitions, community service, or personal challenges, the program equips cadets with the skills they need to succeed in life. In the words of Cox: “It’s not just about drill. It’s about becoming the best version of yourself.”

    You can keep up with Grissom’s Raider team by following them on Instagram @grissom_raider_official .

raider collage
Snapshots from a recent Raider competition

Beyond the Uniform: A JROTC Cadet Reflects on Her Experience

By: Seanna Kennamer and Anna Wheeler

     For many students, high school is a time of exploration and finding one’s place. For Cadet Captain Alexandra Negron, a dedicated member of Grissom High School’s JROTC program, that journey has been transformative and filled with purpose. We had the chance to sit down with Negron to learn more about what JROTC means to her and how it has shaped her high school experience.

     When asked what initially drew her to JROTC, Negron shared her personal connection: “All my family was in the Army, and I wanted to see if I liked it,” she explained. Encouraged by her older brother, she joined JROTC during her sophomore year. It wasn’t an easy start, though. “I didn’t know how I was going to feel about it,” she admitted.

     Today, Negron speaks passionately about the impact JROTC has had on her life. “I like how JROTC makes me feel. I feel like I’m somebody, you know?” she said, reflecting on the self-confidence the program has provided her.

     Balancing JROTC commitments with schoolwork and social life can be demanding for some, but for Negron, JROTC is the main focus. “I don’t do anything other than that. I am also in a team in JROTC,” she mentioned, highlighting her dedication to the program.

     Like any worthwhile experience, JROTC has presented its challenges. Negron described her early nerves and discomfort about wearing the uniform. “I was really nervous about it and didn’t know what people were going to think of me,” she recalled. However, those initial fears soon gave way to confidence as she chose not to pay mind to what others thought.

     Negron’s future plans are deliberate and well-aligned with her JROTC journey. After high school, she plans to attend Auburn University and pursue the ROTC program in college, with the ultimate goal of joining the military after college. It is clear that the JROTC program has played a prominent role in shaping her ambitions.

     For students considering JROTC, Negron’s message is clear: “Don’t be scared. It’s really a safe place. It’s a fun experience.” She encourages newcomers to focus on their own goals and not worry about the opinions of others. “People shouldn’t care about what others think. If they really want to join, they should.”

     Grissom High School’s JROTC program offers more than just military training—it provides a sense of belonging and personal growth. Negron’s story is a testament to the positive impact it can have on students’ lives.

     If you’re looking for a way to challenge yourself, gain confidence, and find your path, JROTC might just be the perfect fit. As Negron says, “It’s fun. You won’t regret it.”

     You can learn more about the program by visiting their website at http://grissomjrotc.com. Additionally, you can find them on Facebook under “Grissom High School JROTC Tiger Battalion” and on Instagram @grissomjrotcofficial.

JROTC collage
Top photo and right photo- JROTC in a Veteran's Day Parade. Left photo and bottom photo- JROTC at the Veteran's Day Program held at Grissom.

Student Spotlight

Shelby Muschamp Shines in Theatre and Advocates for Recognition

By: Jules Schrohenloher

Screenshot 2024-11-29 4.29.18 PM

     November is National Native Heritage Month, which celebrates and recognizes the achievements and contributions of Native Americans throughout our history as a nation. Shelby Muschamp is a Native of the Siletz tribe originating from the Pacific Northwest and is simultaneously in touch with her Native culture and a high-achieving member of our school community.

     Recently, Shelby gave a very well-received presentation in her AP Language and Composition class on traditional crafts from her culture. She shared items such as a ceremonial drum handmade from deer hide by her cousin, and two necklaces: one handmade by her cousin and the other purchased from an artist at a powwow, made of beads, bear bones, and bear claws (pictured left). She also shared a handwoven basket made by her great-grandmother, who was a weaver for her tribe, and two beautiful fringed shawls (pictured right): one belonging to her grandmother and one belonging to herself. This presentation was a wonderful way to educate those who may have never had a chance to experience the beauty of Native American craft traditions. These traditions are practiced today on the Siletz Reservation, situated on the stunning Oregon coast. Shelby loves to visit her tribe and her home state. She describes the beaches as being cold and rocky, and the tap water as being fantastic. She says that popular media such as Gravity Falls and The Goonies accurately portray the general lifestyle in that area.

     Shelby is also a high-achieving theatre student who has excelled in the areas of playwriting and theatrical makeup. Her recent play, Auditions, about a group of theatre kids whose auditions go gruesomely wrong, made it to the state competition for playwriting and will be showcased December 5th through 7th in Florence, AL. She has also been on the makeup team for The Addams Family, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Cinderella, and “Badger”, and she will be leading makeup for Little Shop of Horrors. In all, Shelby is a massive contributor to the Grissom Theatre Department and has played a major role in bringing these productions to life.

     Even though she has made great contributions to our school culture during her time here, Shelby describes her time in the South as less than welcoming. She states, “Despite Grissom High School’s minuscule Indigenous student population, GHS should put in a bigger effort to recognize its Native students. Indigenous People’s Day 2024 wasn’t recognized or celebrated to any degree. It is disappointing to see GHS make a clear and impressive effort to recognize other minority students. What makes Native students worth less recognition? Even if it only refers to less than 1% of the student body, some minor recognition during November or on Indigenous People’s Day would make the few people who fall in line with that identity feel more recognized and welcome within Grissom. My personal experience in the South as a Native American who is still strongly in contact with their tribe and Native family has been a lukewarm one, and a moment of appreciation would make all the difference to students like me.” As a school that prides itself on diversity and acceptance, Grissom has a duty to listen to the voices of underrepresented students like Shelby and grant them recognition, especially on days that have been dedicated to previously overlooked minority groups such as Indigenous Americans.

     In her free time, Shelby enjoys watching stage plays, playing video games, reading books, drawing, and working. She is a crucial member of our school community, and her contributions to both education and entertainment cannot be ignored. We are all looking forward to seeing where she takes her talents in the future.

Teacher Spotlight

Behind the Lab: An Interview with Grissom’s Forensic and Physical Science Teacher

By: Angela Brim

     Becoming a teacher is often more than just a career choice; it’s a calling. For one educator with 23 years of experience, teaching has been a deeply rewarding journey, one that has shaped both Mrs. Malone’s students and herself. Here at Grissom, Mrs. Malone teaches both Physical Science and Forensic Science & Crime Scene Investigation. The journey to teaching for this veteran educator started with a simple spark of curiosity. “Wasn’t sure what I wanted to do,” she shared. This curiosity not only guided her career path but also became a foundational aspect of her teaching style. Mrs. Malone believes that curiosity is an essential trait in the classroom—one that she encourages in her students. 

     One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching for her is seeing her students evolve. When asked about what she enjoys most about teaching she stated “seeing students who typically don’t interact start interacting,” reflecting on the transformations that occur throughout the school year. Whether it’s a shy student gaining confidence or a quiet student excelling in a subject, the personal growth of her students is a source of joy for Mrs. Malone. Compliments from her students also fuel her passion for teaching, serving as reminders of the positive impact she has made.

     Teaching, of course, comes with its own set of challenges. For Mrs. Malone, one of the most significant hurdles is stress, whether it be from traffic on the road or being overwhelmed in the classroom.  Despite these pressures, she remains committed to her students and finds strength in their kindness. “I have sweet, kind students,” she said. Their positive attitudes can help her push through tough days. 

     When asked about the most important lesson her students should take away from her class, Mrs. Malone shared a thought-provoking answer. “I always encourage them to try. Sometimes we are better than what we think,” she said. This lesson—embracing challenges, taking risks, and realizing one’s potential—is something she instills in her students, both in and out of the classroom. It’s a lesson not only in academics but in life.

     After more than two decades in education, this Mrs. Malone has left a lasting mark on the lives of countless students. Whether through her engaging lessons or her unwavering support, she continues to inspire students to be curious, take risks, and believe in themselves. In return, she finds joy in the small moments—the breakthroughs, the growth, and the compliments from her students that remind her why she chose this career in the first place.

     Teaching isn’t just a job; it’s a lifelong journey of growth, both for the teacher and the students. And for Mrs. Malone, the journey continues to be one of passion, challenge, and profound reward.

 

Question of the Month Results

     For the December Issue, we surveyed 141 Grissom students about their favorite holiday traditions, and the results have been gathered! From our sample population, the most popular holiday tradition is exchanging gifts with a total of 25 votes. The second most popular holiday tradition is tree decorating with a total of 22 votes. In a close third, there is a tie between watching holiday movies and looking at holiday light displays, each having 21 votes.  Thank you to everyone who voted! 

    Click the button below or look for QR codes posted around the school to vote for the January Question of the Month. Your vote matters! Be sure to share your opinion! 

I-Spy

                          ☃️Holiday I-Spy List:☃️

  • Two cat ornaments
  • Two Santa ornaments
  • A pinecone
  • A jingle bell
  • A snowman
  • A silver star ornament
  • A pickle ornament
  • A red and green candy cane
ANSWER KEY BELOW