August 25, 2011

ACT test results were recently released by ACT to school districts and states all over the nation. Unfortunately, as a whole, ACT results for the Class of 2011 across the nation were disappointing with national rates only increasing from 21.0 to 21.1 (0.47%). As a whole Mississippi results fell from 18.8 to 18.7 and Tennessee rates fell from 20.9 to 20.7. Although we are not privy to local results, recent newspaper articles have indicated that local scores are down as well.

On the other hand for the Magnolia Heights Class of 2011, average ACT test results showed a significant increase, rising from 20.7 to 23.5, an increase of 2.8 points (13.5%), in one year. This is a direct result of the hard work of our faculty and our ACT test prep initiative implemented three years ago. Not only have we seen our top scores rise, but we are also seeing our mid and lower quartile scores rise as well. While the top scores of 34 and 33 from our students in the Class of 2011 were truly outstanding, we also saw those students who previously scored in the 20-21 range boost their scores to the 25-27 range, easily qualifying for thousands of scholarship dollars. The Class of 2012 shows even more promise with a top score of 35 already obtained.

This is further evidence of the extraordinary faculty members we are blessed to have at Magnolia Heights and their commitment to achieving our children’s academic promise.

August 18, 2011

MHS alumni were in the news this morning.

First of all, United States Naval Officer, Petty Officer Stephen Ruhl, MHS Class of 2006, as well as Class President, telephoned News Channel 3 from his carrier, the USS George Washington, in the Pacific Ocean to tell everyone in his home town of Como hello. He was on for about five minutes and talked about his deployment and how proud he was to serve his country. He closed by extending his best wishes to his family, Dr. Forrester and Dee Ruhl, as well as his brothers and sisters Buck and Livie, MHS 8^th and 7^th graders respectively, Margaret Ellen (MHS Class of 2010 and a National Merit Finalist) who is on her way to Dickinson College, and Jonathan who is also serving our country in the US Navy (currently back from deployment as a medical corps ‘man in Afghanistan). Way to go Stephen! We are all so proud of you and all our men and women in uniform protecting our freedom and standing in the gap 24/7.

Also, Mississippi State football players, Addison Lawrence (MHS Class of 2007) and Cameron Lawrence (MHS Class of 2009) were featured in the Commercial Appeal and Clarion Ledger this morning. Addison has started every game at right tackle since the first game of his sophomore season. He has been selected as pre-season 3^rd team All-SEC pick and has already earned his degree in Business graduating last May. Cameron, a two-year letter winner, shared starting duties last year and is projected as a starter this year as an outside linebacker. Way to go guys and good luck this year!

August 16, 2011

What a great start!

School is off and running. From academics to athletics, school is back in full swing. Our faculty and students are getting back in the routine, and there seems to be a new enthusiasm this year I haven’t felt before. There are lots of smiles, and everyone has a bounce in their steps.

From my visit to the elementary classrooms on Wednesday, to our junior high and high school students moving to and from their classes, everyone was so excited to see their friends and start the new school year.

We are all looking forward to a great year! Please look for ways to get involved. Our parents’ involvement and participation are critical to our school’s success and there are many ways to participate and offer support. From volunteering to assisting in classrooms to helping in the athletic venues, there’s a place for everyone. The Parents' Club (of which all parents are members) needs volunteers and support for their many activities which provide so many needed extra resources for the school. Our athletic booster club, the Chiefs Club, provides the required revenue for our athletic programs. Both clubs need your support, so please volunteer and say “yes” when you are asked to help.

Thanks again for the great start. Go Chiefs