by Mary Tootill, sophomore
The John I. Burton community held a Veterans Day assembly on November 12, 2018. The entire student body, along with the NEMS choir, and several veterans and guests from the community participated.
The assembly began with the John I. Burton band playing The National Anthem, followed by the playing of the military service songs. The Pledge of Allegiance was then led by junior Caleb Barnette.
Dasanye Smith, also a junior, read a text about the end of WWI and spoke about the celebration of the anniversary held on November 11 every year.
The NEMS and JIB choir sang several patriotic selections. Senior Brooklin Baker performed a vocal solo of "God Bless the USA."
A slide show created by history teacher Coach Sharpe was then presented, including a montage of photos, videos, and songs depicting the service of veterans through various wars.
A porion of the ceremony was also planned by the Korean Wars Veterans Auxiliary and led by veteran Sgt. Ray Wells, accompanied by his wife Anna Wells, Taylor Bolling, and auxiliary chaplain Brenda Bolling,
Sgt. Wells shared his own military experience and discussed the respect that students and all Americans should have for veterans. He suggested that even better than thanking veterans for their service is to tell them they we will "never forget" their service and sacrifice.
Wells asked all of the veterans who had been invited as guests to stand according to what war or when they had served. He then asked students who had close family members who served to also stand, and at least a third of the students stood.
Tayler Bolling, a J.I.B. alumna, sang the National Anthem, and Anna Wells played the autoharp and sang "This Land is Your Land." Sgt. Wells and Major Rasnick then told a story about a worn flag being insulted and did a dramatic recitation of Johnny Cash's "Ragged Old Flag."
Major Joe Rasnick presented Corporal Hayward Gilliam with a Silver Star Award proclamation honoring him for his bravery in holding off the North Koreans and Chinese during a battle until reserve forces could respond. Gilliam's brother, who had been killed during the incident, had received the Silver Star Award posthumously.
During the veterans' presentation, J.I.B. senior Skylar Williams was presented with the Veterans Appreciation Award, which Sgt. Wells explained is given to a student, who not only demonstrates academic accomplishment, but also shows sportsmanship, leadership, and good citizenship.
All veterans were invited to attend lunch in the John I. Burton cafeteria after the assembly, and many of them accepted the invitation.
Showing posts with label News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label News. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
Paper Planes and Other Things We Lost: Book Review
(Book Review) by Mary T., sophomore
Paper Planes and Other Things We Lost is a romantic novel by Mindy Hayes and Michele G. Miller. The first book in a three-part series, it was published in June 2016, followed by Subway Shops and the Places We Meet (February 2017), and Chasing Cars and the Lessons We Learned (May 2017).
The main characters names are Ruby, Brett, and Amber. Brett and Amber are twins who live in Pennsylvania, and Ruby is an only child who lives in California.
On June 18, 1993, Brett and Amber's mother and father, and Ruby's mother were passengers on Flight 397. The flight crashed off the coast of Long Island, killing their parents.
Brett and Amber are then left to live alone, considering that they're both seniors in high school. Ruby is also a senior, and is left to live with her dad.
Ruby goes in search of a coping mechanism to help her get through the loss of her mother. Her grandmother finds out about Amber and Brett, and suggests that she write a letter to Amber since they're the same age and are going through the same situation.
Ruby then writes and sends the letter to Amber, but Amber never writes her back because she's been going downhill since the crash and doesn't care enough to respond. Her brother Brett goes into her room and finds the letter and decides to write Ruby back himself.
Ruby and Brett begin to exchange letters and help each other cope with the loss of their parents.
They slowly begin to fall for one another, but the distance between them is one of many complications they experience.
Paper Planes and Other Things We Lost is a great choice for anyone who enjoys cheesy romance novels. It's a very heartfelt and sweet story about overcoming tragedy.
Paper Planes and Other Things We Lost is a romantic novel by Mindy Hayes and Michele G. Miller. The first book in a three-part series, it was published in June 2016, followed by Subway Shops and the Places We Meet (February 2017), and Chasing Cars and the Lessons We Learned (May 2017).
The main characters names are Ruby, Brett, and Amber. Brett and Amber are twins who live in Pennsylvania, and Ruby is an only child who lives in California.
On June 18, 1993, Brett and Amber's mother and father, and Ruby's mother were passengers on Flight 397. The flight crashed off the coast of Long Island, killing their parents.
Brett and Amber are then left to live alone, considering that they're both seniors in high school. Ruby is also a senior, and is left to live with her dad.
Ruby goes in search of a coping mechanism to help her get through the loss of her mother. Her grandmother finds out about Amber and Brett, and suggests that she write a letter to Amber since they're the same age and are going through the same situation.
Ruby then writes and sends the letter to Amber, but Amber never writes her back because she's been going downhill since the crash and doesn't care enough to respond. Her brother Brett goes into her room and finds the letter and decides to write Ruby back himself.
Ruby and Brett begin to exchange letters and help each other cope with the loss of their parents.
They slowly begin to fall for one another, but the distance between them is one of many complications they experience.
Paper Planes and Other Things We Lost is a great choice for anyone who enjoys cheesy romance novels. It's a very heartfelt and sweet story about overcoming tragedy.
Labels:
Entertainment,
News
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
Silent Reading Party Hosted by the Book Club
by Mary T., sophomore
John I. Burton Book Club, sponsored by Mrs. Bias, will host a Silent Reading Party on November 16, 2018 in the library during fourth block!
Students who wish to attend need to go to Mrs. Bias and sign up, as there are limited spots. There is a three dollar fee to attend, and food and drinks provided by the Book Club are one dollar each.
Students who attend will silently sit and read any choice of book; the book can be read through an electronic device, also.
Mrs. Bias and the Book Club are holding this event to raise money for their upcoming field trip to Knoxville to visit book stores and eat at a restaurant.
Come and support the Book Club!
Labels:
Entertainment,
News
Homecoming the Raider Way
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| Football riding through town |
Homecoming at Burton was extremely fun this year! The theme of this year's homecoming was "The Raider way. Here to stay" to emphasize the 65 years of tradition that Burton has.
Everyone anxiously awaited the week so they could dress crazy and show off our school spirit.We had a lot of themes and amazing activities this week:
- Monday-America Day(Wear red, white, and blue)
- Tuesday-Tie dye vs Camo( Wear either tie dye or camo)
- Wednesday-Holiday Day(Wear your favorite holiday)
- Thursday-Decade Day (Wear clothing from your favorite decade)
- Friday-Spirit Day (Wear your orange and Black)
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| Norton Elementary School Cheerleaders |
- 8th grade- Carter Addison and Olivia Webb
- 9th grade-Xadrian Tayborn and Sareena Sergant
- 10th grade- Landon Bolling and Maggie Stinnett
- 11th grade- Najee Steele and Naomi Torres
- 12 grade- Malachi Kyle and Haley Mullins Derrick Allen and Sarah Mullins Houston Thacker and Raeana Smith
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| Sr rep Malachi Kyle and Haley Mullins |
We also had a door decorating contest, and almost every teacher decorated their door and competed for a class pizza party. The winners were 1st-Mrs Godsey; 2nd --Ms Kinserl; and 3rd -- tie between Ms. Compton and Mrs Potter.
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| Sophmore Reps Maggie Stinnett and Landon Bolling |
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| Sr rep Houston Thacker and Raeana Smith |
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| Freshman Reps Xadrian Tayborn and Sareena Sergeant |
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| Eighth Grade Reps Olivia Webb and Carter Addison |
Photo cred:Cindy Combs Stidham
Labels:
Entertainment,
News
Schools Jump Rank in SOL Results
by Caitlin Collins, sophomoreNorton City School's superintendent, Mrs. Gina Wohlford, reported the student's pass rates. These pass rates were on 2017-2018 SOLs statewide.
As a school division, our school's rank went from 49th place in 2016-2017 to 30th in 2017-2018. It was the third highest rank gain with the lowest per-pupil budget in the state. Our schools continue to improve in the areas and grow, in spite of our funding.
The percentages on individual subject tests changed slightly since the previous year.
On the reading SOL tests, 79 percent of the students passed. During 2016-2017, though, 80 percent of them were successful.
In writing, 78 percent passed, compared to 79 percent the school year before. 77 percent passed the mathematics test, with 79 percent in 2016-17.
81 percent passed the SOL tests in science and 82 percent previously. Last, in history and social studies, 84 percent had passed in 2017-2018 and 86 percent before.
Compared to the state average, our schools scored 79 percent in reading, 82 percent in mathematics and science, and our highest was in history with an 89 percent. That means our schools scored at or above the state's averages in these subjects.
"Dedication and work ethic continue to be strong points for us within the faculty and staff of our schools," Mrs. Gina Wohlford says, "We are fully accredited by the state for 2018-2019!"
Labels:
News
Friday, November 2, 2018
One Act Going to Super-Region
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| Second place in district! |
The Burton High School one-act team is moving on after winning second place in conference at Coeburn Middle School. Eastside High School, the previous state champion, got first place.
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| Outstanding Actor Award and Honorable Mentions |
The one-act team is working harder than ever with practice everyday after school making sure their performance of Charlie Foster is perfect for super regions on November 10. They'll also be doing a school performance on Nov. 5 at 1:00 p.m.
Alex Carroll had nothing but excitement and joy for this years performance saying, "Im glad we did this play this year. As a senior, I want to go as far as possible and keep the adventure going, not wanting it to end."
Mrs. Cassell said, "I am incredibly proud of how hard these students have worked to bring this story to life."
Everyone here at the blog wishes them the best in super-regions and hopes they get to state.
Labels:
News
Monday, October 29, 2018
New Raider Gear Online Store!
We now have an online store to purchase John I. Burton Raider merchandise! Merchandise is for students, staff, fans, parents, and alumni. Orders can be customized and are shipped directly to the customer. A percentage of the profit earned goes to J.I.B.
Online store:
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/virginia/norton/j-i-burton-high-school
Online store:
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/virginia/norton/j-i-burton-high-school
Labels:
News
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
Students and Parents Challenged to Avoid "Chronic Absenteeism"
by Mary T., sophomore
A letter to parents sent out by our principal, Dr. Goforth, discusses "chronic absenteeism" and the importance of attending school.
To be considered "chronically absent," a student would have to miss 10 percent of any point of the school year. In other words, if a student misses nine or more days in a ninety day period, they will be considered "chronically absent."
The Virginia Department of Education has now began asking school districts to track students who are considered to be "chronically absent." This issue has recently became very important, considering that schools that do not maintain a low rate of "chronically absent" students will lose their fully accredited status.
For this new requirement, excused and unexcused absences both count towards a student being "chronically absent." However, "chronic absenteeism" is not based off of tardies and check-outs.
Therefore, students are highly encouraged to attend school for the time they can even if they have to be tardy or check-out. Despite tardies and check-outs not being a factor in a "chronically absent" student, they do still count towards the state attendance laws.
In addition to affecting school accreditation, chronic absenteeism puts individual students at a high risk of failure since they lose time that should be spent learning, and many students fail to make up missed work.
A letter to parents sent out by our principal, Dr. Goforth, discusses "chronic absenteeism" and the importance of attending school.
To be considered "chronically absent," a student would have to miss 10 percent of any point of the school year. In other words, if a student misses nine or more days in a ninety day period, they will be considered "chronically absent."
The Virginia Department of Education has now began asking school districts to track students who are considered to be "chronically absent." This issue has recently became very important, considering that schools that do not maintain a low rate of "chronically absent" students will lose their fully accredited status.
For this new requirement, excused and unexcused absences both count towards a student being "chronically absent." However, "chronic absenteeism" is not based off of tardies and check-outs.
Therefore, students are highly encouraged to attend school for the time they can even if they have to be tardy or check-out. Despite tardies and check-outs not being a factor in a "chronically absent" student, they do still count towards the state attendance laws.
In addition to affecting school accreditation, chronic absenteeism puts individual students at a high risk of failure since they lose time that should be spent learning, and many students fail to make up missed work.
Labels:
News
Wednesday, October 3, 2018
Coach Caudill Returns to his Alma Mater
by Mary Tootill, sophomore
Jacob Caudill is a new face at John I. Burton High School. He teaches eighth, ninth, and tenth grade Physical Education, along with Driver's Education. "I didn't expect to get the job, but I really wanted it. Everything worked out really great," he said.
Many students at JIB already know Coach Caudill because he has been coaching sports here for several years. This year, he is helping with football and basketball, and he will be the new varsity head baseball coach in the spring.
Caudill previously worked at L.F. Addington Middle School in Wise as a Physical Education teacher but has never held a position as a high school teacher. Before holding any teaching jobs, Caudill worked at Lowe's and with his dad's company working on telephone poles.
Caudill is an alumnus of John I. Burton, graduating in 2008. He attended college at Mountain Empire Community College for one year and continued to UVA Wise and graduated from there. He received his bachelor's degree with a major in Health and Physical Fitness and a minor in Education.
"The adjustment to the school was pretty easy, thanks to Dr. Goforth and Mr. Helton," Caudill said. The biggest challenge for Coach Caudill so far has been the difference between how his students act depending on if they're in the Gym or the Health room, "They like to talk more in the Health room," he says. "The experience has been great, I feel back at home in Burton," Caudill said.
Outside of school, Coach Caudill and his wife, who will soon have two children, love to do outdoor activities. Some of their favorite activities are camping, deer and turkey hunting, fishing, and hiking. "We don't use the TV or play video games a lot; we love the outdoors," he says.
Jacob Caudill is a new face at John I. Burton High School. He teaches eighth, ninth, and tenth grade Physical Education, along with Driver's Education. "I didn't expect to get the job, but I really wanted it. Everything worked out really great," he said.
Many students at JIB already know Coach Caudill because he has been coaching sports here for several years. This year, he is helping with football and basketball, and he will be the new varsity head baseball coach in the spring.
Caudill previously worked at L.F. Addington Middle School in Wise as a Physical Education teacher but has never held a position as a high school teacher. Before holding any teaching jobs, Caudill worked at Lowe's and with his dad's company working on telephone poles.
Caudill is an alumnus of John I. Burton, graduating in 2008. He attended college at Mountain Empire Community College for one year and continued to UVA Wise and graduated from there. He received his bachelor's degree with a major in Health and Physical Fitness and a minor in Education.
"The adjustment to the school was pretty easy, thanks to Dr. Goforth and Mr. Helton," Caudill said. The biggest challenge for Coach Caudill so far has been the difference between how his students act depending on if they're in the Gym or the Health room, "They like to talk more in the Health room," he says. "The experience has been great, I feel back at home in Burton," Caudill said.
Outside of school, Coach Caudill and his wife, who will soon have two children, love to do outdoor activities. Some of their favorite activities are camping, deer and turkey hunting, fishing, and hiking. "We don't use the TV or play video games a lot; we love the outdoors," he says.
Thursday, September 27, 2018
Mrs. Cassell Joins English Department
by Mary Tootill, sophomore
Stephanie Cassell is a new teacher at John I. Burton high school. She teaches English, along with Online Communication, Theatre, and directing competitive one-act.
Mrs. Cassell previously taught English in Jenkins, Kentucky city schools for 7 years before coming to Burton. She taught grades 7-12, but primarily 9th through 11th grade. She also taught Journalism (newspaper and yearbook), Creative Writing, Speech, and Drama.
Mrs. Cassell has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a Writing concentration from Birmingham-Southern College in Alabama, where she grew up. She attended UVA-Wise later on to take education classes to obtain her teaching license. Recently, Mrs. Cassell has completed classes through an online program at Morehead State University for a master's degree in English, but still has to pass an exit exam to officially have her master's degree.
She originally planned on being copywriter in the business world. "When I was in college the first time, I was not at all interested in teaching," she says. After working as a copywriter for a few years, she decided it wasn't as exciting as she expected. "When I had my own kids, I started realizing what an important job teaching is and I wanted to do something where I could make more of a difference instead of just writing ads to sell stuff nobody really needs anyway," she says.
The adjustment to John I. Burton was quite easy for Mrs. Cassell, considering that her children attended school here, "Burton feels like home to me since my sons went here and I live in Norton. I already knew a lot of people, and everybody has been very welcoming." The biggest adjustment for Mrs. Cassell was being hired only a few weeks before school started and not having a lot of time to work with her classroom. "I really like all the classes I am teaching, and the students make it fun," she replies when asked about her experience in John I. Burton so far.
Another challenge for Mrs. Cassell is adapting to the VA SOL standards, "Even though I taught a similar class with an end-of-course test in Kentucky, I am still learning specifically about the VA SOL to make sure my juniors are as prepared as possible," she says.
She has two sons, 20 and 24 years old, and a husband. Outside of school, she attends a lot of music festivals since both of her sons play music and she enjoys attending whatever festivals they play at. Along with music festivals, she enjoys reading, creative writing, and baking.
Blood Drive Exceeds Goal
| Mrs. Addison donating blood. |
A blood drive was held at J.I. Burton on Friday, Sept. 14, 2018. The drive was organized by the National Honor Society, sponsored by Mrs. Ashley Addison.
To donate, students must have been at least 17 years old. There is a long list of other requirements, too, such as eating a meal beforehand and not being sick.
Students seemed happy to donate, whether to get out of their regular classes or to help a good cause. "I chose to donate because I wanted to help the lives of those in need," said Keaton Ingle, a senior who donated for the first time at the drive.
In addition to helping save lives, students who give blood at least 3 times can earn a special cord to wear at graduation. A family member can also make a donation in their name to qualify. Ingle said he hopes to achieve this goal before the end of the year.
The blood drive was held outside of the school in the parking lot in a bus referred to as the Marsh Bloodmobile. When students first enter the bus, they fill out a general questionnaire about their health. Then a nurse checks blood pressure and pulse to make sure they seem healthy. If students pass those screenings, then they lay back in a chair while a nurse takes their blood.
Keaton said he was very nervous before having his blood taken because he has felt like he was going to pass out getting blood drawn at doctors' offices before. "The scariest thing was the needle. It was pretty huge," he said.
The process was not as bad as he feared. "It didn't hurt, though. It was weird; it went in real smooth," Ingle said.
After students donate blood, they are given a snack and rest for a few minutes to make sure they are feeling well before going back to class.
Mrs. Addison said that the blood drive at J.I. Burton "was a great success" since they exceeded their expectations for the number of students who would attend. She said, "We were not sure if we would even have 30 donors but ended up with over 40!"
To donate, students must have been at least 17 years old. There is a long list of other requirements, too, such as eating a meal beforehand and not being sick.
Students seemed happy to donate, whether to get out of their regular classes or to help a good cause. "I chose to donate because I wanted to help the lives of those in need," said Keaton Ingle, a senior who donated for the first time at the drive.
In addition to helping save lives, students who give blood at least 3 times can earn a special cord to wear at graduation. A family member can also make a donation in their name to qualify. Ingle said he hopes to achieve this goal before the end of the year.
The blood drive was held outside of the school in the parking lot in a bus referred to as the Marsh Bloodmobile. When students first enter the bus, they fill out a general questionnaire about their health. Then a nurse checks blood pressure and pulse to make sure they seem healthy. If students pass those screenings, then they lay back in a chair while a nurse takes their blood.
Keaton said he was very nervous before having his blood taken because he has felt like he was going to pass out getting blood drawn at doctors' offices before. "The scariest thing was the needle. It was pretty huge," he said.
The process was not as bad as he feared. "It didn't hurt, though. It was weird; it went in real smooth," Ingle said.
After students donate blood, they are given a snack and rest for a few minutes to make sure they are feeling well before going back to class.
Mrs. Addison said that the blood drive at J.I. Burton "was a great success" since they exceeded their expectations for the number of students who would attend. She said, "We were not sure if we would even have 30 donors but ended up with over 40!"
Labels:
News
Thursday, September 20, 2018
(Music Review) by Hannah S., junior
Panic! At the disco is one of those bands that will surprise you if you let them. Panic! At the Disco
is an American rock band from Las Vegas, Nevada formed in 2004. Lately, you don't hear
them on the radio or hear about them very often, but once you hear their music you'll never go back.
Panic! at the Disco is one of those bands that you'll never get tired of. They just recently performed
at the 2018 Video Music Awards, and in my opinion, the performance was great.
The band members have been good friends since their early childhood. They were originally a
four-person band. They recorded their first demos while still in high school. Ryan Ross was also
originally supposed to be the lead singer of this band.
is an American rock band from Las Vegas, Nevada formed in 2004. Lately, you don't hear
them on the radio or hear about them very often, but once you hear their music you'll never go back.
Panic! at the Disco is one of those bands that you'll never get tired of. They just recently performed
at the 2018 Video Music Awards, and in my opinion, the performance was great.
The band members have been good friends since their early childhood. They were originally a
four-person band. They recorded their first demos while still in high school. Ryan Ross was also
originally supposed to be the lead singer of this band.
Some more interesting facts about this band are that they were originally a Blink-182 cover band.
Their name was inspired by the song "Panic" by Name Taken.
I would recommend this band to anyone that likes Fall Out Boy.
Their name was inspired by the song "Panic" by Name Taken.
I would recommend this band to anyone that likes Fall Out Boy.
Labels:
Entertainment,
News
Wednesday, September 12, 2018
Class Officers Elected
by Caitlyn C., sophomore
On September 7, 2018, John I. Burton students voted for the students they want to serve as president, vice-president, and secretary/treasurer of their classes. All grades, 8th through 12th, participated in the voting.
The election process started with first electing three students from each grade for each of the positions, then giving those students time to campaign for the positions. Then two weeks later, they got to choose from the three options. The people who won the election were announced at the end of the same day.
The students who won the elections were as follows:
Senior Class: Cassie I., president; Derrick A., vice president; Alexandria C. secretary; and Skylar W., treasurer
Junior Class: Holden H., president, Mikey C., vice president, Joe J., secretary/treasurer.
Sophomore Class: Mary T., president: Quaid J., vice president; Kaleb M., secretary/treasurer.
Freshman Class: Kaylee J., president; Sareena S., vice president; McKenzie T., secretary/treasurer.
8th Grade: Carter A., president; Dauntae K., vice president; Maleeah P., secretary/treasurer.
I was able to interview a few of them about their wins. Carter A., who won president of the 8th grade, said that he campaigned by creating posters and handed out things to the students in his grade. He said that he was surprised that he won since he just transferred to Norton schools last year and "I didn't have a lot of friends."
McKenzie Tate, who was elected secretary/treasurer of the freshman class, said that she would love to help with the cause of eliminating bullying. She also looks forward to coming up with ideas for projects like the homecoming float.
To win her election as president of the sophomore class, Mary T. campaigned through social media. I asked her if she expected to get elected, and she said, "Yes, but at the same time, I thought someone else would probably win." Mary is most excited about getting to work on the class homecoming float, which she thinks will take about two weeks to create.
Congratulations to all the winners!
On September 7, 2018, John I. Burton students voted for the students they want to serve as president, vice-president, and secretary/treasurer of their classes. All grades, 8th through 12th, participated in the voting.
The election process started with first electing three students from each grade for each of the positions, then giving those students time to campaign for the positions. Then two weeks later, they got to choose from the three options. The people who won the election were announced at the end of the same day.
The students who won the elections were as follows:
Senior Class: Cassie I., president; Derrick A., vice president; Alexandria C. secretary; and Skylar W., treasurer
Junior Class: Holden H., president, Mikey C., vice president, Joe J., secretary/treasurer.
Sophomore Class: Mary T., president: Quaid J., vice president; Kaleb M., secretary/treasurer.
Freshman Class: Kaylee J., president; Sareena S., vice president; McKenzie T., secretary/treasurer.
8th Grade: Carter A., president; Dauntae K., vice president; Maleeah P., secretary/treasurer.
I was able to interview a few of them about their wins. Carter A., who won president of the 8th grade, said that he campaigned by creating posters and handed out things to the students in his grade. He said that he was surprised that he won since he just transferred to Norton schools last year and "I didn't have a lot of friends."
McKenzie Tate, who was elected secretary/treasurer of the freshman class, said that she would love to help with the cause of eliminating bullying. She also looks forward to coming up with ideas for projects like the homecoming float.
To win her election as president of the sophomore class, Mary T. campaigned through social media. I asked her if she expected to get elected, and she said, "Yes, but at the same time, I thought someone else would probably win." Mary is most excited about getting to work on the class homecoming float, which she thinks will take about two weeks to create.
Congratulations to all the winners!
Labels:
News
Monday, September 10, 2018
One-Act Play to be Performed
by Keaton I., senior
The one act play has been a tradition at Burton for a long time. Since Mrs. Davis retired this year, Mrs. Cassell has taken over the coaching job by directing her first play Charlie Foster, by Raymond King Shurtz. She said, "Theater is a fun experience to take part in whether you have a lead role as an actor or help with set design and technical help such as light and sound."
This year's one act play is described as "a powerful play about coming-of-age and the sensitive nature of walking in someone else's shoes. This dramatization about swimming and theater tells the tale of Charlie Foster, a kid no one knew or cared about until he accidentally drowned in the river. Or was it an accident? Ten young people try to comprehend this life and death, questioning their memories and each other's," according to Dramatic Publishing, the publishers of this play.
She held auditions to see who would be the best to play each role in the play. the cast selected includes Alex C, Brooklin B., Haley R., Kelly P., Haley Q., Eden W., Carter A., Noah E., Shakira C., Dasayne S., Shamiyeh N., Elora H., Justin S., and Ashlyn W., In addition to getting cast members, she got tech/ stage people, including three seniors: Jackson Baker, Austin Quillen, Aidan Wells, plus Sam H.,
The team has practice after school four days a week. Mrs. Cassell makes the schedule relaxed with other after-school activities, so cast members can participate in both. They are practicing for the district competition on October 20 at Coeburn Middle School. Later there will be a performance for the school and the parents.
Alex Carroll, a senior on the cast, said "I think it's a good play that has lots of potential and there is going to be a lot we can do with it on stage. I hope it goes well and wish everyone on the team does their best."
The one act play has been a tradition at Burton for a long time. Since Mrs. Davis retired this year, Mrs. Cassell has taken over the coaching job by directing her first play Charlie Foster, by Raymond King Shurtz. She said, "Theater is a fun experience to take part in whether you have a lead role as an actor or help with set design and technical help such as light and sound."
This year's one act play is described as "a powerful play about coming-of-age and the sensitive nature of walking in someone else's shoes. This dramatization about swimming and theater tells the tale of Charlie Foster, a kid no one knew or cared about until he accidentally drowned in the river. Or was it an accident? Ten young people try to comprehend this life and death, questioning their memories and each other's," according to Dramatic Publishing, the publishers of this play.
She held auditions to see who would be the best to play each role in the play. the cast selected includes Alex C, Brooklin B., Haley R., Kelly P., Haley Q., Eden W., Carter A., Noah E., Shakira C., Dasayne S., Shamiyeh N., Elora H., Justin S., and Ashlyn W., In addition to getting cast members, she got tech/ stage people, including three seniors: Jackson Baker, Austin Quillen, Aidan Wells, plus Sam H.,
The team has practice after school four days a week. Mrs. Cassell makes the schedule relaxed with other after-school activities, so cast members can participate in both. They are practicing for the district competition on October 20 at Coeburn Middle School. Later there will be a performance for the school and the parents.
Alex Carroll, a senior on the cast, said "I think it's a good play that has lots of potential and there is going to be a lot we can do with it on stage. I hope it goes well and wish everyone on the team does their best."
Labels:
Entertainment,
News
Marshmello's New Single is Fly
(Music Review) by Keaton I., senior
Marshmello is one of the top dee-jays in the world right now. He has produced collaborations with many well-known artists such as Selena Gomez and Khalid. One of his best songs is the new single "Fly" which was released in March 2018.
Within only three minutes, this one song perfectly captures the fun, upbeat dance music that Marshmello creates. The song is electronic dance music (EDM), which has very few actual lyrics. It is created online or recorded into a digital program with mostly synthetic sounds.
The repetitive lyric in this song simply states, "I can fly." This lyric, plus the music, makes the song easy to dance to bcause of the multiple original beats.
The song was originally released on Youtube and is available on Spotify to listen to for free. I would recommend that everybody put it on their playlist for fall.
Marshmello is one of the top dee-jays in the world right now. He has produced collaborations with many well-known artists such as Selena Gomez and Khalid. One of his best songs is the new single "Fly" which was released in March 2018.
Within only three minutes, this one song perfectly captures the fun, upbeat dance music that Marshmello creates. The song is electronic dance music (EDM), which has very few actual lyrics. It is created online or recorded into a digital program with mostly synthetic sounds.
The repetitive lyric in this song simply states, "I can fly." This lyric, plus the music, makes the song easy to dance to bcause of the multiple original beats.
The song was originally released on Youtube and is available on Spotify to listen to for free. I would recommend that everybody put it on their playlist for fall.
Labels:
Entertainment,
News
Friday, September 7, 2018
Thursday, December 8, 2016
Merry Christmas from the National Honor Society
On December 22, Mrs. Poteet and the National Honor Society will be going to Heritage Hall for their fall project. Each student has adopted a member of the nursing home and will buy them one or more Christmas presents. The student will purchase gifts for their angel with their own personal funds. Students will present their gifts and cater to members of the nursing home at their annual Christmas party.
The nursing home adoption is a great opportunity for the National Honor Society students to understand the meaning of Christmas. Vice President, Mazzy T., stated "I hope that we realize how much more it is to give than to receive this Christmas." Senior, Torie A., says that she hope that the students learn to appreciate what they have and never take anything for granted. Today's youth frequently wish for gaming systems and smartphones, while members of the nursing home wish for necessities, such as lotion and socks. Nowadays, young men and women do not always realize that they are very privileged.
This year is Mrs. Poteet's second year as adviser of National Honor Society. She thinks that it is important to have a group of students to represent John I. Burton in a positive manner. This is also the second year the students have visited Heritage Hall at Christmas time. Students may be a member of the National Honor Society during their junior and senior year. To be a part of the National Honor Society, students must have at least a 3.5 grade point average, compose a personal narrative essay. obtain one or more teacher recommendations, and complete the application provided by Mrs. Poteet. Students are encouraged to join so that they may become a positive influence in the community.
Written by: Alex C. and Haley H.
The nursing home adoption is a great opportunity for the National Honor Society students to understand the meaning of Christmas. Vice President, Mazzy T., stated "I hope that we realize how much more it is to give than to receive this Christmas." Senior, Torie A., says that she hope that the students learn to appreciate what they have and never take anything for granted. Today's youth frequently wish for gaming systems and smartphones, while members of the nursing home wish for necessities, such as lotion and socks. Nowadays, young men and women do not always realize that they are very privileged.
This year is Mrs. Poteet's second year as adviser of National Honor Society. She thinks that it is important to have a group of students to represent John I. Burton in a positive manner. This is also the second year the students have visited Heritage Hall at Christmas time. Students may be a member of the National Honor Society during their junior and senior year. To be a part of the National Honor Society, students must have at least a 3.5 grade point average, compose a personal narrative essay. obtain one or more teacher recommendations, and complete the application provided by Mrs. Poteet. Students are encouraged to join so that they may become a positive influence in the community.
Written by: Alex C. and Haley H.
Labels:
News
Taking education to a new level: Topographic sandbox
On Friday December 2, three guest speakers from NASA Development came to visit John I. Burton's science department. The guest speakers came to Mrs. Scott's 8th grade physical science class to discuss topographic maps. The speakers, Micheal Brooke, Christine Stevens, and Aubrey Hilte, brought an augmented-reality sandbox for a hands-on learning experience. The sandbox allowed the class to create bodies of water and any form of elevation. This allows the users of the sandbox to have an overview of a created region.
The machine uses 3D visualization applications to project elevation lines on a regular sandbox. The sandbox was not the only tool used in that lecture. The visitors also brought authentic topographic maps as well as a PowerPoint.
Ms. Scott hopes that the session taught her students how to use/read topographic maps. She states, "I hope this experience encourages them to read topographic maps properly. This was a good learning experience for them."
Written by: Tiffany A. and Paloma B.
Ms. Scott hopes that the session taught her students how to use/read topographic maps. She states, "I hope this experience encourages them to read topographic maps properly. This was a good learning experience for them."
Written by: Tiffany A. and Paloma B.
Labels:
News
Thursday, December 1, 2016
ASVAB steers students toward future career options
On September 29, the results were distributed to the students. On that same day, the students took an aptitude test that was provided by the ASVAB program. The "F.Y.I." test described each student by grouping him/her into different categories such as Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. After the student is categorized, the program then offers hundreds of options for careers that best suit that individual.
Most students felt as though the ASVAB test and "FYI" test provided them with accurate results and career options that suited their interests. One sophomore who agreed with the feedback said, "For the most part I do agree, but I feel like just one test would not define my knowledge." The test is available for anyone who is interested in joining the military or for anyone who is exploring career options. To take the test, visit the closest Military Entrance Processing Station.
Written by: Megan D. and Tiffany A.
Labels:
News
Student Thanksgiving traditions
On Thursday, November 24th, 2016 families throughout the United States gathered together to celebrate Thanksgiving. Here in Norton, students celebrate Thanksgiving in many different ways. Some go out to eat at a restaurant, others cook at their houses, or some go to other family members houses. Even though families celebrate the same holiday, many celebrate differently, with different traditions or different foods. Many people are also thankful for many different reasons.
Ron Y., Senior at Burton, this year, is thankful for his family and his girlfriend. His favorite Thanksgiving food is turkey, but he also loves to eat many different Asian foods, such as rice and different types of meats. Aaron M.,10th grader, is thankful this year for having a roof over his head and that his family in Mexico is safe. He also says " Don't take Thanksgiving for granted . . . but spend time with your family." Holden H., 9th grader, says his favorite tradition is sitting down with his family and watching the Redskins game.
Most of the students at Burton have celebrated Thanksgiving for many years. A new student, Dwight D., who came to Burton from Thailand has only celebrated Thanksgiving once before. He was hoping that his parents would celebrate it this year. The first time he celebrated Thanksgiving was in Thailand, and his family ate KFC. This year they could not find the food they preferred so they just ate bread. Overall he was very thankful for his Thanksgiving.
Written by: Makayla M. and Tori F.
Ron Y., Senior at Burton, this year, is thankful for his family and his girlfriend. His favorite Thanksgiving food is turkey, but he also loves to eat many different Asian foods, such as rice and different types of meats. Aaron M.,10th grader, is thankful this year for having a roof over his head and that his family in Mexico is safe. He also says " Don't take Thanksgiving for granted . . . but spend time with your family." Holden H., 9th grader, says his favorite tradition is sitting down with his family and watching the Redskins game.
Most of the students at Burton have celebrated Thanksgiving for many years. A new student, Dwight D., who came to Burton from Thailand has only celebrated Thanksgiving once before. He was hoping that his parents would celebrate it this year. The first time he celebrated Thanksgiving was in Thailand, and his family ate KFC. This year they could not find the food they preferred so they just ate bread. Overall he was very thankful for his Thanksgiving.
Written by: Makayla M. and Tori F.
Labels:
News
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