GHS honored twice for AP Honor School and a student as Georgia Scholar

News

EAST ELLIJAY, Ga. – Gilmer Schools has reason to celebrate this week as Gilmer High School was honored by the state as 1 of 239 Advanced Placement (AP) Honor Schools from 88 LEAs that State School Superintendent Richard Woods named earlier this week for 2022.

The 2022 AP Honor Schools are named in eight categories, based on the results of 2021 AP courses and exams. AP exams are administered by the College Board, which also administers the SAT. AP courses are one of several ways Georgia students can access college-level learning at the high school level; students who receive a 3, 4, or 5 on an AP exam may receive college credit. ‘

The category that Gilmer High School was honored for was AP STEM Schools. Schools named to this category must have a minimum of five students testing in at least four AP STEM courses. (AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, AP Physics C, AP Computer Science A, AP Computer Science Principles).

This is an annual recognition for schools as the GaDOE began recognizing AP Honor Schools in 2008.

State Superintendent Richard Woods stated,  “We are committed to expanding opportunities for Georgia students, including in advanced and accelerated coursework. I offer my sincere congratulations to each of this year’s AP Honor Schools, and thank each teacher, student, and school leader who worked hard to create strong AP opportunities in these Georgia schools.”

honored

Kinsleigh Purvis, Gilmer High School’s 2022 Salutatorian, 2022 PAGE STAR Student, and 2022 Georgia Scholar.

Gilmer Schools also offered congratulations to GHS and all of its AP students and AP teachers. However, their is one student among the high school who is being honored specifically as another annual recognition was presented by Woods recently, the 2022 Georgia Scholars.

GHS honored one of its students in February of this year as the 2022 PAGE STAR Student. That student is Kinsleigh Purvis. She is the daughter of Steven and Kara Purvis of Talking Rock, Georgia. As the PAGE STAR Student, she named former Mathematics teacher Ashley Stover as her STAR teacher at the time. Now, Purvis is still achieving more in here senior year at GHS as she is among Superintendent Woods’ 2022 Georgia Scholars.

According to Georgia State Department of Education, a total of 216 graduating seniors from across Georgia have been recognized as 2022 Georgia Scholars. Through the Georgia Scholar program, the Georgia Department of Education identifies and honors high school seniors who have achieved excellence in school and community life. Georgia Scholars are students who carried exemplary course loads during their four years of high school, performed excellently in all courses, successfully participated in interscholastic events at their schools and in their communities, and assumed leadership roles in extracurricular activities sponsored by their schools. Each Georgia Scholar receives a seal for their diploma as well.

Gilmer Schools Superintendent Dr. Brian Ridley stated, “I offer my sincere congratulations to Kinsleigh on her designation as a 2022 Georgia Scholar. As our class of 2022 salutatorian and STAR student, it is obvious that she is an impressive young lady with a bright future ahead of her. We are extremely proud of her achievements.”

Citizens petition and speak against non-renewal of contract for Poff

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contract

ELLIJAY, Ga. – March has seen increases in activity and a crowd in attendance to the Gilmer County Board of Education’s March regular meeting on March 17, 2022, to speak to the board about not renewing the annual contract for Justin Poff, a certified athletic trainer at Gilmer High School.

According to posts and even a 548 signature petition circulating around, citizens are pushing back against the decision and calling it a “detrimental loss.”

As per their policy, the board did not respond to public speakers, but they listened to both Heather Rayborn and Amber Goodwin who spoke during their meeting. Both speakers supported a change in decision and encouraged renewal of the contract with Poff due to his efforts and an “above and beyond” work ethic that they reported to the board.

Rayborn stated her son has worked closely with Poff to overcome shin-splints and a concussion at one point. She said, “These are things that you may not be aware of, but our children need him [Poff]. They depend on him. They trust him and they trust that if they get hurt on that field, that he will be the person who cares for them and that he will do it wholeheartedly and correctly.”

Goodwin also reported injuries for her daughter who was cared for by Poff. She urged the importance of having an athletic trainer for the schools having gone through these situations with her children. She stated, “At sporting events, I have seen him take care of other athletes as well, offering a hand to take care of athletes on opposing teams… As a parent, there are not many people that I trust with the safety of my children who are athletes. But, I fully trust Justin Poff with them. Not only does he take care of them, but it is evident that he cares for each one of them.”

In addition to those who spoke, there are others who were present at the meeting and those who have supported the petition to the board. The petition on Change.org, posted by Vanessa Hataway, states,

“Gilmer high school is not wanting to renew Justin Poff’s contract next year. He is our Certified Athletic Trainer for Gilmer High School. I have never met anyone in my children’s athletic career who cares about their minds/bodies/injuries the way Poff does. Our children only get one body, and Poff cares about them and their injuries more than throwing them back in a game when they shouldn’t be. Our student athletes NEED and WANT him. Our Parents NEED and WANT him. If we lose Poff this will be an absolutely detrimental loss to our children and our community. I know my child is in the absolute best hands with Justin Poff, and we will fight to keep him! Let’s let our school system know that this loss is not okay, and that we will be heard!”

While much of personnel hiring like this contract come through administrators as recommendations to the Board of Education, they are presented in the meeting as a recommendation by the Superintendent. Gilmer Schools Superintendent Dr. Brian Ridley said that in addition to listening to those who spoke in the meeting he has also sat down privately with many citizens who have asked about the position.

contractDr. Ridley declined to comment on any specifics about Poff, but did tell FYN that the school system is looking to continue the services of a Certified Athletic Trainer at Gilmer High. He said that they are looking at several possibilities for the future and are considering different options. Ridley stated, “There is no plans to scrap the program itself. We are planning to still provide those services in one form or another.”

He also noted that the school system does a lot of its hiring and personnel during the spring season as it handles staff retiring at the end of the school year, some who may change schools or move away, and those who may transfer positions in the school system. Filling all of the roles is a priority for the season.

As such, Ridley did state that there is many considerations that go into a position each year. When asked about the school’s CTAE pathways, Ridley confirmed that one consideration the school might look at is a return to a sports medicine pathway. In 2018, Gilmer looked to advance certain healthcare pathways in the school through a remodel of the health science classroom.

GHS announces STAR Student Kinsleigh Purvis

Bobcat's Corner, News

ELLIJAY, Ga. – Gilmer High School has announced the 2022 PAGE STAR Student as Senior Kinsleigh Elizabeth Purvis who, in turn, selected former Mathematics teacher Ashley Stover as her STAR teacher.

Kinsleigh Purvis is the daughter of Steven and Kara Purvis of Talking Rock, Georgia. She has earned this recognition due to hard work, academic achievement, and SAT scores. In addition to being named STAR Student, she stated that she has also been accepted to attend the University of Georgia and its honors program. Purvis plans to pursue an Environmental Health Science degree that fulfills Pre-Med needs to go into Medical School.

The Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program is sponsored, administered, and promoted by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) and the PAGE Foundation. The STAR Student must be a senior with the highest score on a single test date on the SAT and be in the top 10 percent or top 10 students of their class based on grade point average to qualify. The STAR program has honored nearly 28,500 students and the teachers selected as the most influential to their academic achievement over the years. There are competitions that continue in the STAR program at the region and state level.

Purvis

Kinsleigh Purvis, Gilmer High School’s 2022 PAGE STAR Student.

Purvis told FYN that the award was not something she was directly looking to achieve. While she did know about the STAR student program, she said she has been working hard towards the highest SAT score she could get for herself and not towards the STAR program specifically.

STAR Teacher Ashley Stover taught Purvis in ninth grade Geometry before stepping out of the classroom to become the Dual Enrollment Coordinator for two years. A program that Purvis has utilized to attend Dalton State College where she has been taking classes for core credits to add to her AP classes in high school.

Now, Stover is with Ellijay Elementary School.

Purvis chose Stover as her STAR Teacher because, as she states, “In the classroom, she is always very encouraging to everyone, including myself, and always pushed me to do my best. Then, as dual-enrollment coordinator, she helped me a lot with scheduling and doing what’s best for my future career and what’s best for me now.”

When asked about how surprising it was to hear the Purvis had been named STAR student, Stover said, “She’s always been at the top.”

Purvis

Ashley Stover, Gilmer High’s 2022 STAR Teacher.

She went on to add the Purvis was “the whole package.” She explained that the desire is there to fuel her. And while Purvis has always understood and gotten concepts quickly, she has stayed humble enough to realize the need is still there to work hard for what she wants. In addition to her drive and academics, Stover said she is kind and helpful to anyone.

That drive reaches out from school and academics as well. Purvis attends dance classes, teachers younger dancers from first and second grade, is a part of Girl Scouts, she is also very involved in her youth group that meets on Wednesday and Sunday nights.

Having gone through AP classes during the virtual academy and at-home days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Purvis still maintained her efforts and did “very well” on her AP tests according to Stover.

GHS Principal Carla Foley also lauded Purvis’ achievements saying, “We are very proud of Miss Purvis and Mrs. Stover and the academic excellence they have exemplified at Gilmer High.”

Speaking specifically about Purvis both as a past student and looking to the future, Stover said, “She’s going to do great things. I’ve known that since I met her, but she is. She is going to change the world.”

GHS Adulting Day sees community educating students

Featured News, Featured Stories, News

ELLIJAY, Ga. – “It takes a village to raise a child.” An old proverb and quote repeated over the years comes home to Gilmer County as Gilmer High School returned to its annual Adulting Day event.

Adulting Day

From VCA Appalachian Animal Hospital, these volunteers spoke about working with animals and the veterinarian career.

The event sees members of the county coming into the high school setting and volunteering to educate students on skills and life in society today. The lessons have ranged over the years from financial things like writing checks, balancing checkbooks, applying for loans, or starting a small business to personal ideas about life after school like possible careers, joining the military, and even personal health and hobbies to support it.

These volunteers from the community work alongside teachers in classrooms and are put into lessons building off of their personal expertise. Led by the Guidance Counselor’s Office, Adulting Day looks to aid students in information not directly taught in standard core classes.

The event has also evolved from its original form, in recent years, lessons have changed as volunteers have come and go and the number of lessons have increased. While originally only held for one grade, Adulting Day now includes every student in the High School with certain lessons done at different grade levels.

One of the school’s three counselors, Daniel Marshall said that this year saw about 40 community members volunteer their time for the day. Those included close to 95 percent of the volunteers from the last time the school held the day. Unfortunately, the COVID outbreak required the event skipped. With virtual academy and other responses taken to mitigate the spread many events suffered this fate.

Adulting Day

Not only going through the details of what Fire Rescue employees do but showing the equipment they deal with, students were introduced to Gilmer’s Public Safety department.

However, while Marshall said that a couple did want to hold back this year, he added that they asked to be kept in mind for next year. He stated, “We are very grateful, very thankful that we live in a place where the community is willing to help.”

Starting in September, initially emailing community partners, the school fills in lessons and asks teachers if they have sessions they can teach. This allows every class to be filled in with important lessons about adult life. Classes also include careers in trades like welding and electrical work. Showcasing all forms of careers, the school branched into firefighters, military, nursing, veterinary, and much more. Layered on top of the other information, it becomes a day to prepare for life both soon after graduation and later on in life that could be post military or post college.

Adulting Day

Reece Sanford, of South State Bank, speaks with students about starting a small business and the impact it has on our area during Adulting Day at Gilmer High School.

Nixon Bunch, a teacher in Gilmer High School, introduced kids to hiking and equipment used. As something he is personally interested in and has nearly a decade of time vested into, he offered a beginner’s look into the hobby. He said that his session was about the hobby but also about finding balance and taking care of your own mental health. While not a career path or basic skill, he noted that in life nature, being outside, exercising, providing these positives in life help to balance that health.

Reece Sanford, a manager at South State Bank, led discussions and introductions into starting a small business. From source ideas to getting a small business loan, introducing these students to the idea broadens horizons into an area some may not have considered. Sanford said that in rural America a small business is often needed for the community as they have far less corporate based jobs. Relating back to the community, Sanford discussed the economic impact of such businesses in the area. He went on to add how important he feels it is to work with students and how much he hopes that each one is able to take something away from this day and his presentation.

Working alongside these volunteers during Adulting Day, the schools prepare each year for the day to offer as much as they can. Taking feedback from the community and building on their successes, they can consistently improve and offer more than they have in previous years.

Adulting Day

Students hold onto the jaws of life used by Gilmer’s Public Safety workers.

Marshall noted that each year also sees a survey given to the students for other lessons to add and to get feedback on the day along with the volunteers. He said that some of this years sessions came directly from suggestions made on the surveys from previous years stating , “We look at the data and we see where is the majority of the suggestion piling into. We take that information and see how we can incorporate it next year.”

When asked about the school and community cooperation, Marshall said, “It’s a massive impact because, we as counselors and educators in the building, our goal is not only to help the students learn the things they need to know while they are in high school but its looking forward and having a future focused mindset. What are your next steps? How can we help you get to that point? It’s things like this that help us get to that next level for those kids. Without the community people, we couldn’t make any of that happen.”

 

Gilmer High School Graduation for the Class of 2021

Bobcat's Corner, Community

Congratulations to Gilmer High School’s Class of 2021.

GraduationSaturday, May 29, 2021, saw 243 graduates honored at Huff-Mosley Stadium at Gilmer High School. The ceremony, delayed from its original Friday scheduling due to rain, was held in the morning under the guidance of administration, Principal Carla Foley, and Interim Superintendent Kim Cagle.

Of the 243 graduates, 94 were honor graduates.

As the first class to spend a full year in COVID restrictions, it was a class split between home and school with many opting for in-person education while others joined the virtual academy.

https://youtu.be/nuzLz6Chlx0

 

Alexis Sirmans, 2021 Senior Class President, delivers the Welcoming speech for Gilmer High Schools’ Graduation ceremony for the Class of 2021.

 

 

 

https://youtu.be/YWVGB26tceQ

 

Heather Pierce, 2021 Salutatorian, delivers the Salutatorian’s address for Gilmer High Schools’ Graduation ceremony for the Class of 2021.

 

 

 

https://youtu.be/zPnmGUgV0Iw

 

 

MacKenzie Setser, 2021 Valedictorian, delivers the Valedictorian’s address for Gilmer High Schools’ Graduation ceremony for the Class of 2021.

 

 

 

 

View more photos of graduation at FYN’s Facebook Page.

Request for 8th Graders to march with band denied

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EAST ELLIJAY, Ga. – In March 2021, the latest revisions to Board Policy IDE(3) were made for Competitive Interscholastic Activities. This month, Band Director David Wiebers submitted a request to allow a waiver to the policy for the band.

That waiver would allow a small number of students in the 8th grade to march with the high school band. Wiebers told the board that the waiver would help the band as it has had middle schoolers march before. With stated benefits to the students, retention rate, the high school band, and the middle school band, the request would allow the continuation of the practice in spite of the policy.

Policy IDE (3) states,

The Board of Education (“the Board”) hereby adopts this policy regulating competitive interscholastic activities.

1. Each middle and high school principal is responsible for properly supervising and regulating competitive interscholastic activities in his or her school and shall ensure that all staff members adhere to the school system’s athletic guidelines, this policy, and related rules of the State Board of Education. The principal may delegate responsibility for supervising one or more student activities and clubs to a member or members of his or her professional staff, provided such individuals must act under the principal’s direction.

2. A student wishing to participate in interscholastic competitive activities must be enrolled full time in the school that sponsors the competitive activity. (Dual Enrollment students are included in the “enrolled full time” group eligible to compete.)

3. Retention of students for athletic purposes is prohibited by the Gilmer County School System.

4. Each principal of a school covered by this policy is responsible for ensuring and maintaining documentation of adherence to the requirement of this policy.

5. Permission must come from the Superintendent or Superintendent’s designee for a coach to have practice on a non-school day (Ex: snow day).

Because of line 2 in the policy requiring a student to be “enrolled full time in the school that sponsors the competitive activity,” a student of Clear Creek Middle School cannot be allowed to march competitively with the Gilmer High School band.

Wiebers said that middle schoolers who have marched with the high school return to their middle school program with stories and experiences to share, increasing interest in the high school program. It also increases the level of excellence for those students involved as they are introduced to the higher level program earlier than normal. Wiebers said that since only the highest level members of the middle school band are allowed to participate, it keeps the number lower while maintaining quality.

https://youtu.be/Sbn_vlyxV1k

Wiebers said, “I don’t view it as a high school position, I view it as a six through twelfth grade band program.”

Assistant Director Holly Kinsey also spoke during the meeting supporting the request with her own story of when she was in middle school band and was given the opportunity to march with the high school. She spoke about how the experience reinvigorated her desire for band. She said she was bored with band at the time, and it was the gifted program for marching with the high school that gave her a bit of a push to continue.

However, all of this would be in direct violation of the policy due to IDE(3). Thus, the request for a waiver.

Even with participation, students have faced restrictions and extra requirements when participating in high school band as a middle schooler, according to Kinsey. They must be accompanied at all times as Kinsey spoke about busing the students and following in her car to the high school. Additionally, in long or overnight trips, these students must be accompanied by their parent and they would room with the parents in overnight situations.

The board also unanimously approved the policy, as it currently exists, in March, two months ago. Additionally, Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs stated in the regular meeting, “I can’t, in good conscience, with the feedback we’ve received, recommend a change to that policy.”

Much of the board agreed as the motion came to approve a waiver from board member Joe Pflueger. A second to the motion never came, meaning the motion died and a waiver was not approved. Thus, eighth grade band members cannot participate in high school band due to the standing Policy IDE (3).

‘Band’ing together for music amid a virus

Bobcat's Corner, Feature News
band

Being a member of the Gilmer High School Band requires effort, lots of it. From long practices in the sun with July heat for Band Camp to carrying up to a 20 or 30-pound sousaphone across 80 yards of open football field while wearing a uniform, this program can be physically taxing.

Or perhaps you are in Color Guard or Winterguard, performing maneuvers with a flag, rifle, or sabre while enhancing the show through dance, practicing in the same heat, but performing the taxing dance moves instead of carrying an instrument.

According to estimates and planning from GHS Head Band Director David Wiebers, the average student from Band Camp in July to the end of school in May, spends an average of 580 minutes, or just over nine-and-a-half hours, weekly on the program through class, camp, practice, and whatever else is needed.

Achieving as much as the Gilmer High School Band has achieved over the years is not easy, taking time, practice, effort, and no small amount of talent.

And that’s in a regular season.

bandAmid COVID, the Band has functioned very differently, operating the similar hours of practice, striving just as hard for excellence and “Superior” ratings at competitions and shows. Consistant Superior ratings are even harder, like the superior rating the symphonic band received just last week at Dawson County High School for Large Group Performance Evaluation through the Georgia Music Educators Association.

The band program, in all of its forms, has changed because of the virus. While the schools allow and conduct virtual learning in classes, Band has to work a little different. Individuals train, but a band has to operate and perform as one. It takes dedication from students who attend after school practices, Band Camp, performances. Things you cannot do from home.

Each student putting in the same or more effort as they always have, but for fewer performances, fewer chances to get that perfect show, fewer chances to shine for judges and audiences. Both Band Booster Vice President Christy Prisco made note of this being a devastating blow to band members as they have gone from a normal year averaging between 40 to 50 performances a year overall between football nights, parades, symphonic concerts, jazz band performances, and other shows.

This year, that number was 17. A total of 17 performances divided between the entire program. Only 17 chances to showcase the effort that students put into their music.

“That’s the number one thing that we’ve been affected by, is the morale and motivation of our kids… Getting kids to buy in and work hard towards something knowing that they could potentially not be performing it… it’s frustrating for the kids.” said Wiebers.

winterguardFewer performances on the field for half-time shows is only on point as the school has had to cancel pep-band for basketball games. They have cancelled performances for the jazz band and symphonic band like annual showings at the Festival of Trees during Christmas. They have cancelled the band’s annual trip to perform elsewhere, in other states for other people, seeing a small part of the world.

Unfortunately, for a performance based program like band, less shows means less exposure. Less exposure means less fundraisers, Less fundraisers means less support. Less support means increasing costs and increasing difficulty in nearly every facet of a program that has seen success after success over its storied history. Due to Covid-19, the program has lost key successful fundraisers, such as their most important event with Apple Festival Parking but also events like Monthly Spirit Night and this year’s Annual Gala and Silent Auction.

It means a harder time for parents who are members of the band boosters, who are the chief group for fundraising for members of the band.

On top of these issues, the situations have forced the band to increase its annual price per student for membership. The increase in annual fees is going from $225 to $325. Wiebers said the need comes as the band program really wants to maintain the greatest instructors and maintaining the essential building blocks for success.

However, Director Wiebers offered hope and a welcome to all students who want to be a part of the program, despite the increase in membership fees and funding amid the virus. He said, ” Do not let money be the reason your kid does not do band… Money is no thing, we will get your kid involved, one hundred percent, in this band.”

bandWhile the need is clear, the Director stressed the issue again as he asserted a desire to get more kids involved. He said, “The most important thing is that we want your kid in the band program and having a great time. We want to teach your kid, that’s what we want.”

It’s the band boosters who are a part of that process to make sure every student that signs up and wants to perform can perform. It is the band boosters, together with Wiebers, together with individual trainers for each instrumental section, that brings the Gilmer Board of Education motto of “Every Child, Every Opportunity, Every Day” to a program like the band.

It’s programs like the Gilmer High School Band that take a young man from Middle School back in the days when former Band Director Joe Pflueger then taught in the Middle School and Steve Calhoun was Band Director. That program took that young man to college for a degree in Music Education who then took his years of experience in performance into DCI (Drum Corps International) marching for Spirit Drum and Bugle Corps and then on to several years of the same excellence in a program to other counties in the state where he taught music.

But since COVID, it is harder for the program. Harder for students, harder to fundraise, harder to continue the history of excellence.

Harder, but not impossible.

Wiebers stated, “Gilmer Schools has done the best job possible during this pandemic as far as making things as normal as possible.”

The Board of Education funds part of the band as they always have. Through the budget each year, there is funding made available. Filling the gap between funding and need comes through the efforts of the Band Boosters and creative answers to the ongoing issue with the virus and new requirements for the program. Band Boosters have brought about change in the way they fundraise. New ideas like the band’s GoFundMe make small headway in the goal for the remainder of this school year, the summer, and fall marching season. Prisco was part of the group who launched the GoFundMe saying, “There are many costs that come with running a successful award winning program from staff, to props, flags, costumes and instruments.”

With stretch goals like personal thank you videos from the band, its sectional and overall leaders, and videos updating behind the scenes of what each ensemble is working on, the program holds an overall goal of $20,000.

bandBut $20,000 itself is only a portion of the estimated total for the next year. With a normal year of fundraising, the boosters program collects closer to $150,000 for the whole year. While the number of students in each year can change total costs, the boosters are still seeking more options to achieve more for the students. That’s why other programs like an auction or the band selling show shirts and gear from current and former shows are another new answer to the need.

According to Prisco, some things like paying the royalties to be able to play certain songs for the shows, instructors for sections, and instruments are just a few of the key things that the bad starts with before adding on much of the extras in support of the program.

Funding is not the only changes what the GHS Band and Director Wiebers has instituted. Adapting to the challenge is a part of the process, as he says he still looks to include, work with, and improve students who may have needed to quarantine for a time.

Solo practice sessions at home will cover the same music that the band is working on together. This ties in with a new program, called Smart Music, that listens to students play and offers feedback on missed notes or other key areas before allowing them to repeat the practice until the student is happy with it and submits a final playthrough for Wiebers to then listen to and continue from there.

Additionally, while very few may have noticed, this years half-time show for the Marching Band included social distancing practices and a drill that kept every single student at least six feet from anyone else at every moment of the show. A specific drill created wholly in response to the COVID virus.

With numbers decreasing, Wiebers has said it’s gotten easier as less and less students are out or quarantining.

Unfortunately there is no answer yet for the drop in shows. While the program’s stellar new Winterguard has seen successes in its formative years, it suffers from cancelled competitions and reduced showings the same as all of the ensembles throughout the year.

winterguardThat hasn’t stopped students from maintaining the quality, motivation, and spirit of the music, obtaining Superior ratings and continue to perform stellar shows for the community.

The Winterguard has one more competition this year on March 27, 2021, at the Buford Arena. The Band still has its silent auction fundraiser on May 6 at 6 p.m., the same time as their Spring Concert on Pflueger Field behind Gilmer High School offering a picnic style setting.

Past that, the program is already looking at next year for the designs and show for then, teasing an all original show for the band, Wiebers said he is excited for the future of the program, the future of the students, and the future of music coming out of Gilmer High School.

Much attention has been brought to artist and musicians over the years through “save the music” events as funding has dwindled. But now, a new challenge comes during a virus that seems to be doing as much damage socially as it does to an individual person.

Roy Ayers once said, “The true beauty of music is that it connects people. It carries a message, and we, the musicians, are the messengers.”

In today’s world, with everything so socially distanced, a musical connection among people can be one lifeline back to normal. And the path may come through the hard work and sweat of students to make that music. But it takes a community willing to listen to the music and support it to allow it to thrive.

Fire Department called to Gilmer High Gym

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South State, fire

ELLIJAY, Ga. – Parents are receiving messages from Gilmer High School today informing them that the Fire Department had to be called to the school.

Gilmer Schools Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs

According to those messages, due to smoke coming from the mechanical room in the gym, school officials called the Fire Department to investigate. Immediately removing all students from the facility, they were taken to the Band Practice Field for safety.

According to a statement from Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs, no students were harmed and the fire was quite small.

She added that as of 10:30 a.m, the Fire Department has extinguished the fire and cleared the area for students to return.

While authorities are still looking into the situation, preliminary information from the Fire Department said that the fire could have been electrical in nature. However, this was speculative as they were still looking into it. Reports indicate that only minor damage has been caused to the mechanical room of the gym.

Details on GHS lockdown released from Superintendent

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Break-In closings, rally, lockdown

ELLIJAY, Ga. – Gilmer County High School went under lockdown this morning after a student reported to the principal about possibly sighting a firearm.

According to a statement released by Gilmer Schools Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs, “At approximately 0754 this morning, a student reported to an assistant principal that they saw a gun and ammo in a another student’s book bag.”

Downs went on to say that the Assistant Principal immediately used the Centegix Crisis Alert to place the school on lockdown. Reports began coming in about the lockdown and statements that the Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) set up a command center and began searching the facility. According to Gilmer Sheriff Stacy Nicholson, the “best case scenario is that it’s a fluid operation and command is being set up while operations is dealing with the issue.”

Downs said, “GCSO and school officials began investigating, questioning witnesses, and viewing both classroom and hallway cameras.”

Thorough searches of involved students, their belongings, and facilities yielded no weapon. According to Dr. Downs, GCSO cleared the building at 8:51.

Sherriff Nicholson also commented to FYN this morning saying, “This morning, a student reported to faculty of GHS that another student possibly had a gun. The school immediately went on lockdown and law enforcement responded. It was quickly determined by Sheriff’s Office personnel and school officials that the student in question did not have a gun.”

As of now, sources say the lockdown has been lifted, including parents who say they have received a call from the school stating the same.

With less than an hour under lockdown, Gilmer administrators and the Gilmer County Sheriff reported, responded, and cleared the suspected. It is not the first time Gilmer has dealt with a lockdown situation this year as another lockdown in December came after a loud noise “like a gunshot” was reported at the Larry Walker Education Center in December, 2020, and Clear Creek Middle School went on Lockdown after an incident at the bus garage occurred in February, 2020.

Gilmer celebrates Vision 2020 with state reps

News

Celebrating what they have already accomplished while also looking ahead, Gilmer High School played host to State Representatives and local administrators with a Thanksgiving Meal in honor of “Vision 2020.”

Georgia Speaker of the House and GHS Alumnus David Ralston, left, shares a moment with Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Gary Black, right, in celebrating "Vision 2020."

Georgia Speaker of the House and GHS Alumnus David Ralston, left, shares a moment with Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Gary Black, right, in celebrating “Vision 2020.”

Georgia’s own Speaker of the House and Gilmer High Alumn David Ralston was present along with Georgia’s Commissioner of Agriculture Gary Black and State Nutrition Director Dr. Linette Dodson. All shared in the Thanksgiving Meal provided by the High School and served by the GHS Culinary Pathway Students.

Additionally, Representatives from Kelly Loeffler’s Office were present to offer their support as well.

Part of the major celebration was noted as Gilmer Nutrition Director Linda Waters spoke about “Georgia Grown,” an effort to localize sourcing for school meals. Part of Vision 2020 was to achieve 20 percent for that goal. That means that schools in Georgia would have, at minimum, 20 percent of the food the serve to students be grown locally in our state.

Its a focus on the importance of Georgia’s Agriculture, but also its history. Black stated that agriculture has always been a major part of Georgia’s industry.

Vision 2020

Gilmer Schools Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs prepares to sit down with State Representatives to share a Thanksgiving meal at Gilmer High School.

He also stated that in the last five years, “186 school systems in the state of Georgia… have responded with the economic impact information we’ve been seeking.” With those 186 systems, $59 million of Georgia food was purchased for these school systems in 2019.

Black also noted how the state has been supporting agriculture and business during the economic downs in order to make sure the Georgia is supporting and supplying itself for these reasons. Through these efforts, Black said, “Georgia grown produce is available to every school, every day. Today and moving into the future.”

Yet, Black was not the only state representative touting the importance of Georgia’s agriculture. Speaker of the House David Ralston added that he was happy with the great job that both local schools like Gilmer and the Department of Agriculture are doing in supporting each other through projects like this. Ralston stated, “It has diversified so much. Who would have ever thought that now we’re making Olive Oil in Georgia? Georgia has become a Wine destination.”

He praised the continued growth and change in the agriculture business and it “remains number one.” He gave credit to Black’s leadership in continuing support of the growth.

Hosting the steps forward and continuing “Vision 2020” alongside Georgia Grown foods, the State Representatives gave Gilmer County Schools the first of many signs indicating these Vision 2020 schools that have achieved and are continuing towards the 20 percent and beyond as they move towards the next steps.

School responds to argument with sports coach

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argument

ELLIJAY, Ga. – With social media abuzz and questions coming forth about a recent argument with a Gilmer Athletics Coach at Gilmer High School, FYN has reached out to Gilmer Schools Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs for comment and answers on the path forward.

Many have already seen the video on Facebook involving the coach and a student resulting in a verbal argument. According to both Dr. Downs and those in the video, the argument arose when a child struck the coaches vehicle at the Larry Walker Center below the high school on Bobcat Trail.

FYN’s current understanding is that this coach told the child that he shouldn’t be hitting his car, that it was a rental, and he could have damaged it. Apparently, the child said that he thought it was his family’s car and left. However, the child’s older brother returned with another person, who was filming when they returned, and began asking the coach what he said to the child. While details are unclear, it appears the argument escalated from there.

Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs did confirm that Gilmer High School Principal Carla Foley would be speaking with the coach and that the school is already amidst investigating the incident. She also confirmed that she was in meetings today as the child’s parent reached out to speak, but has scheduled a meeting to speak with her as well.

Downs said, “I am disappointed at any time that one of our staff members has a negative interaction with a student or with a family.”

The school system is pulling videos from the facility and looking into the incident as Dr. Downs said that the school principal would be handling the issue moving forward as a personnel issue. The Larry Walker Center is considered a part of the High School campus.

Gilmer High School cancels prom in face of resurgent Coronavirus

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Prom

ELLIJAY, Ga. – Gilmer County is still finding new information from news of exposures in the Courthouse and offices shutting down, but now, Gilmer High School is responding to the general resurgance of the Coronavirus in Georgia as they officially announce cancelling this year’s prom.

Originally cancelled during the school year as responses and shutdowns were widespread in the spring and the schools were closed, opting for “distance learning” alternatives, the prom was rescheduled in April as Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs announced in a meeting that they would be attempting to hold prom in July to make up for the cancellation.

That date was set for this Friday, July 10, 2020.

Today, the high school released a statement on social media stating that they would be cancelling the make-up day as well. They stated, “We have been in constant communication with local authorities regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and after much discussion and deliberation, we have decided to cancel prom this Friday, July 10. This decision was made with a great amount of information pertaining to potential and confirmed cases in Gilmer County. The cases are on a continual rise due to recent events within the county, and our first, and utmost, concern is, and will always be, the safety of our students and staff.”

In response to being forced to cancel the event, the high school is offering refunds through a linked form that parents and students can use for the school.

The school asks for patience moving forward.

They also commented saying a final decision has not been made at this time regarding graduation. However, they did affirm that a decision would be made in the coming days.

Gilmer updates Graduation plans with tentative dates

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Gilmer BOE 2019, school closed, Graduation, Board, Education, Spending Resolution

ELLIJAY, Ga. – Students are getting more updates as the administrative staff of both Gilmer High School and the Gilmer County School System continue working towards tentative dates for graduation ceremonies for seniors this year.

Throughout April, Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs has constantly updated parents and students of their work to offer recognition and honor for these students despite the viral outbreak and shutdown. That continued with their Special Called Meeting this week as Downs revealed specific dates for their plans.

https://youtu.be/T-t3r2wAfmY

Dr. Downs did say “tentative” dates for these events as the school system is still planning and looking at the changing environment.

The current plan does include other grades as those schools wish to hold a celebration for their students to collect some items they may have left, to see friends and teachers, and to provide a little closure to the school year.

Ellijay Elementary School will hold theirs on July 6, 2020. Clear Creek Elementary School and Mountain View Elementary School will hold theirs on July 8, 2020. Clear Creek Middle School will be held on July 9, 2020. Specific times or a time range have not been set yet as plans and events continue to formulate.

Answering the most asked question of recent weeks, Gilmer is attempting to address both Graduation and Prom this year. Dr. Downs announced during the meeting that they are looking to hold their actual graduation ceremony on July 17, 2020, with prom the Friday before, July 10, 2020. Again, the specific time has not been finalized yet, though some time slots are already being considered.

Gilmer is, currently, still planning on a televised recognition video on May 22, 2020, in recognition of students and their honors and achievements, but also wants to give students the actual chance to hold their real graduation in July. Filming will be going on in early May as students, staff, and the school board plan to be a part of the video.

 

GMP approved for GHS Renovations Phase 3

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ELLIJAY, Ga. – Gilmer High School is set to move ahead with Phase 3 of renovations after unanimous approval came for a GMP (Guaranteed Maximum Price) from the Board of Education during a special called meeting.

https://youtu.be/T-t3r2wAfmY

That GMP from Charles Black Construction totals $816,306 for the project. Through Charles Black, at least one subcontractor is already set and the Board is set to go forward with the project this summer.

Phase 3 is the Classroom phase of the multi-year renovations project for the school. It will include replacements for ceiling tiles, painting, and flooring updates. However, a few extra details are also included as they remove most of the floor outlets in science labs and dealing with an expansion joint in one area that they will look closer at during the process.

Their previous phases were Phase 1 for the cafeteria, common area, front offices, and Phase 2 for hallways upstairs and downstairs and media center.

This process has been underway for months as the school system has continually progressed on these projects throughout the year.

Previous phases, reaching back to 2018 in construction and earlier in meetings and discussions, were mostly completed over the summer. The only points left being finished during school years reached only a week or two into class time and were isolated to areas that would not affect students.

As students are not going to be back in the building for the rest of this year, we have not yet received a specific date on when these renovations will start this year.

Superintendent releases email to parents and seniors about graduation

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Gilmer BOE 2019, school closed, Graduation, Board, Education, Spending Resolution

ELLIJAY, Ga. – Gilmer Seniors received good news about Graduation during the Board of Education’s April Regular Meeting as Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs read an email that was sent from Gilmer High School Principal Carla Foley.

https://youtu.be/myaM6TvU1Pg

The email noted details about the plans for graduation as well as a recognition on May 22, 2020. While some of these are similar to plans discussed earlier in the week at the work session, final details came through the email.

Foley said, “While we must wait to hold a large gathering, we do not want to let May 22nd pass without celebration.”

The school will give each senior an opportunity to walk across the field and receive their diploma with their parents and family members close by. They will video each senior having their name announced and receiving their diploma. Then, after having the videos = edited together, the plan is to air the Class of 2020 commencement proceedings on ETC 3 at 7 p.m. on May 22nd.

While these are the current plans as Gilmer will not be returning to class this year, the plans are in effort, according to Downs, to provide some closure to the year for these students through a graduation as well as a recognition day.

Downs did provide the specific details from the email later: 

  • Seniors will be able to pick up their caps and gowns at GHS on Thursday, April 23rd, between 12-3pm. Please enter the GHS campus via Old 5 and Bobcat Trail, and follow the signs and directions.

  • At that time, each senior will be given a paper with a number (1-265), date (May 6th-8th), and time (9am-3pm) to arrive at Huff-Mosely Stadium, via Bobcat Trail, behind the Larry Walker Education Center. You will not be allowed to enter the stadium via Old 5 or Legion Road.

  • Seniors and their family members (1 carload – maximum 6 occupants, including the senior) will arrive at LWEC no earlier than 15 minutes before your assigned time.

  • We will be working in groups of 5 seniors at a time. The first 5 cars, in numeric order, will be lined up and directed around the LWEC toward the visitor entrance of the stadium.

  • The first senior and his/her family will enter the stadium and check in at the table, and proceed to the podium. In order for seniors to participate in the walking ceremony/taping, all fines and fees must be paid in full. Look for an email indicating if your child owes any money for fees or fines.

  • Once that senior leaves the check in table, the next senior and their family will get out of their car, enter the stadium, and check in, and so on. Please do not leave your car until directed to do so by a Gilmer County Sheriff’s officer.

  • At the podium, the senior’s name will be announced, along with any academic awards and scholarships from the Gilmer Education Foundation they have received. (Applications for Gilmer Education Foundation scholarships are due by noon, on Monday, April 20th, to your child’s counselor)

  • The senior will then proceed to the middle of the field to receive their diploma cover and a folder with additional awards and scholarship information from me, and Superintendent, Dr. Downs. Actual diplomas will be mailed to students after May 22nd. Students need to complete the following Google Form to indicate where their diploma should be mailed: https://forms.gle/RFVfJEVViSNpRwsZA

  • Next, the senior will go to a table to pick up their yearbook. If you haven’t ordered your child’s yearbook yet, it is not too late. You can order online at: https://tinyurl.com/y8rz5q8y , or you can order and pay in person when your child comes to pick up their cap and gown on April 23rd.

  • Finally, there will be a place on the field where parents and family members can take pictures with your senior.

  • Each senior will be given 15-minutes on the field from check-in to picture taking. Please honor this time in order to keep the number of people on the field to a safe capacity for all involved.

  • If you cannot make the date/time you have been assigned, please let me know ASAP. A few time slots will be available on Saturday, May 9th, from 10:30-12:00.

  • If your child will not be participating in this ceremony, please have your child notify their counselor ASAP.

 

Foley also said that the school will plan a graduation event in which all seniors and their families can meet on the field and celebrate their accomplishments should current circumstances change over the summer. “We just don’t want to miss the opportunity to provide something at this time.”

Reality Day still needing volunteers for 7th year

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Sophomores from GHS prepare for Reality Day with friends at the Ellijay Civic Center.

ELLIJAY, Ga. – With just over a month until one of Gilmer High School’s two annual “real world” events,  volunteers are still needed for the annual Reality Day.

This event delves deeper into budgets and finances for students in 10th Grade at the high school as they go through the process of budgeting a set monthly salary to provide for furniture, car payments, insurance, entertainment, clothing, unexpected expenses, and more.

Reality Day runs all day with volunteers covering shifts to be apart of the program introducing students to life after school. While most volunteers run all day, the event caters to those who can only give a half day for the morning or afternoon shifts.

Partnering with the high school on the project and hosting it in the gym allows the students to attend without having to be bused elsewhere, but also provides more time for each student to delve into the project.

Gilmer County Family Connections Coordinator Merle Naylor, who directs the event, said, “The volunteers enjoy it and they know that the students are certainly being helped and the students are gaining some knowledge.”

Many members of different parts of the community join in volunteering for Reality Day. From the Board of Commissioners Chairman and Post Commissioners in the past to School Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs, local business owners and representatives, retirees, and members of the Chamber. People from all walks of life in Ellijay come to invest in the real world knowledge of these students.

Each year also sees small changes to the event as those involved constantly seek feedback from both the volunteers and students. One of those changes this year will see students pick a field to go into. While this doesn’t pick exactly which job they get to base their “budgets” on, it does set a certain guide that will be used to set the path based on their school progress and a little bit of random drawings.

That idea of randomness plays another key role in the students budgets as one table will present the students with an “unexpected event.” This could be something like a flat tire that needs replacing to a medical expense or something positive like an unexpected refund or bank error.

While the final details are being set now, Naylor did reiterate that they could always use more volunteers. More volunteers mean more people to provide and more time dedicated to each individual student. Naylor noted that not only do the volunteers seem to enjoy Reality Day, but the students always gain a lot saying, “We get feedback from them. It opens their eyes to what their parents have to provide and what their futures hold. They learn, I don’t think there is a student that attends that doesn’t learn something.

This will be the seventh year of the annual event, and it seems to be moving positively for the years to come as well.

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