What a Year!

What a year! The 2013-14 school year has been a roller-coaster of emotions. From the exhilaration of multiple state championships to unbelievable sorrow in the loss of loved ones, we have run the gamut of emotions. Schools are all about learning (life lessons and head knowledge) and this year was no different.

We rolled out a 1:1 computer environment for grades 10-12. We learned that technology is a tool, but not the focus. Utilizing technology in the educational delivery systems is the future, and our students will be prepared. Take a look at the promotional video produced by Computer Apps II class as a group project. It's very impressive. Click here to view. From textbooks and learning management systems online to budgeting time for online classes, we learned that technology is ubiquitous and required in our new global world.

We also learned how to be champions and the life lessons that come from athletics. From the heartbreak of last-second state championship game losses to the joy of being number one, our student-athletes competed with class and effort, and this made all of us very proud.

Class of 2014

Academically, each of our 51 seniors received a scholarship offer. Thirteen of our students have achieved Eminent Scholar status (29 or above on ACT). Our Science Department recorded another top 3 finish in the MAIS Overall State Science Fair. In the ABC (Academic Betterment Competition) MHS easily outpaced all other schools in our district winning more (first, second, and third places) than all the other schools combined.

Through service our students found many ways to give back. The first graders provided table decorations and sang for Providence Place while the 4^th grade created Heart of Magnolia (stuffed animals for children in automobile accidents). The Interact Club assisted in the Senatobia Rotary Club Clean-up Day, HOPE Food Drive, and 5 Star Fest; the National Honor Society raised money for St. Jude and the Interact Club contributed to HOPE Ministry. FCA supported Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child. Through many other acts of service, MHS students found a variety of ways to give back to the community.

However, we also learned that tragedy can bring a family together as nothing else can. Through Andrew’s death we affirmed that we are more than just a school – we are a family. We’ve always known this, but in tragedy it comes back front and center. There is no way to get through those seasons in life without family and faith in God. We learned that we should never take God’s blessings for granted and we should thank Him for each day He gives us. Life is precious.

MHS Class of 2028

Yes, we have learned and as we learned, we added to Magnolia Heights School’s legacy of achievement and honor. We are all a part of this wonderful family and are forever tied to MHS. Wherever we go, whatever we do, our actions today and tomorrow will be influenced by our experiences here. No matter what our accomplishments, there is still no time to rest. This year we also saw the MHS Class of 2028 begin their classes. What will they see? What will they accomplish? No one knows, but we do know that Magnolia Heights School will remain as a constant beacon shinning brightly on “the Hill” just south of Senatobia.

From all of us on "the Hill," be safe and may God richly bless you and yours.

It’s Time to Say Goodbye

It’s that time of year again. In just a week, 51 seniors will cross the stage and receive their high school diplomas. This past week, during Senior Awards Night, we learned that:

• 6 of the 51 have been accepted into various Honors Programs or Honors Colleges
• 100% of this year’s senior class received at least one scholarship offer
• The total scholarships awarded so far exceed $2.8 million
• There were 6 Eminent Scholars (29 or above on ACT)
• The top 25% have an ACT average of 28.9
• Over 37% already have at least 6 hours of college credit

This group of seniors also excelled athletically. Did you know that:

• The football seniors played for two state championships
• The softball girls finished in the final four in the State AAA Softball tournament the last 4 years with two state runner-ups and two third place finishes
• The boys’ basketball team played for two state championships, winning the State AAA D-2 this past year
• Baseball seniors finished 104-11 winning three consecutive State AAA D-2 Championships, with the 2013 squad finishing 37-0 and ranked 8th nationally.

Let's not forget community service. Did you know that seniors held leadership positions in clubs such as the Interact Club, the National Honor Society, and FCA where they helped raise money and collect over 1000 pounds of food for HOPE Ministries, helped with community clean-up days, assisted the Parents' Club with Harvest Fun Fest and Senatobia Main Street with the 5 Star Fest, and filled more than 100 shoe boxes for Samaritan's Purse?

As you can see, they have excelled academically and athletically, but yet also have a servant's heart. Their future is bright and the legacy they leave will challenge the classes yet to come.

As I always do each Senior Awards Night, I had the opportunity to issue a challenge to this year’s senior class. The following is their challenge:

As I do each year, it is now my honor to issue my challenge to the Class of 2014.
At Andrew’s memorial I mentioned the hash tag “not a school but a family,” and as I was preparing for tonight, I was reminded that is exactly what we are – a family. We argue, fuss, and fight, but don’t dare let an outsider pick on one of us. And when tragedy strikes, as it did just a few weeks ago, it takes "family" to get us through it.

Recently, I was listening to the radio and an old song by Journey came on, "Don’t Stop Believing." As I thought about the title, I could not help but reflect on your senior year. It may have crept by ever so slowly to you, but to your parents and me it has raced by. In just a few short days you will all walk across the stage and receive your high school diplomas. From that point on you will begin your life's journey into adulthood.

"Don’t Stop Believing" led me to think of those things in which you should continue to believe.

First - "Don’t Stop Believing" in your friends. The friends you have made here at Magnolia Heights School will always hold a special place in your heart. Look around you tonight. In a few short weeks you will part ways and may not see each other again for years. I know it sounds crazy, but I assure you it’s true. The friendships and special memories will always be in your heart and will forever bind you and them to MHS. It’s so easy to believe in everyone at this time. There will be times in the future, however, when your friends will need you. They will need you to believe in them the same way you did when you counted on each other to complete a project, run a play in football or basketball, or even when they counted on you to help them with difficult life decisions. You were there then and I encourage you to be there in the future.

Second – "Don’t Stop Believing" in your family. Family – we could talk on and on about their influence on you. But tonight I want you to think about believing in them. They do have your best interests at heart. There will be times when you disagree, but remember to listen to their life experiences. They don’t want you to touch the hot stove, go to fast in your car, or make terrible decisions that alter your life's path. Yes they believe in you – but you need to remember to believe in them as well.

Third – "Don’t Stop Believing" in yourself.  Scripture says each of you  is fearfully and wonderfully made. Each has unlimited potential – unlimited possibilities. Tonight you can be anything or do anything you want. But that comes with tremendous responsibility and ultimately costs. There will be times that you will find it hard to believe in yourself – especially when you make terrible decisions that have devastating consequences. But remember, the first time you attempted to ride a bike or roller blade, you probably fell down. However, if you wanted to learn badly enough, you got back up and eventually conquered the tasks. Life is that way as well. You will have victories and you will have defeats. How you handle each of those will determine much in your life.

Fourth – "Don't Stop Believing in God." Your faith is so important. God’s will for your life and your doing His will is paramount.  Read His word and pray daily. The old adage is true – there’s nothing that’s going to happen today that you and God can’t handle. God does have a plan for each of you. Jeremiah 29:11 says "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Seek God’s will and His purpose for your life. Again, as I closed the memorial service, #becausehelives.

Finally – I want to read you a short story about the wooden bowl. It puts into perspective what I've tried to communicate to you this evening

"THE WOODEN BOWL"
I guarantee you will remember the tale of THE WOODEN BOWL tomorrow, a week from now, a month from now, a year from now.   A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson.  The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered.  The family ate together at the table.  But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor.  When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth. The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess.  "We must do something about Grandfather," said the son. "I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor."  So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner.  There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner.  Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl.  When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometime he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone.  Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.  The four-year-old watched it all in silence.  
One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor.  He asked the child sweetly, "What are you making?" Just as sweetly, the boy responded, "Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up."  The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.  The words so struck the parents that they were speechless.  Then tears started to stream down their cheeks.  Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.  
That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.  

On a positive note, I've learned that, no matter what happens, how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow. I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.  I've learned that, regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life.  I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as making a "life." I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands.  You need to be able to throw something back.  I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you.  But, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others, your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you.  I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.  I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.  I've learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone. People love that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.  I've learned that I still have a lot to learn. Class of 2014 – Believe in your friends, your family, yourself, and God. It will serve you well."

Class of 2014 – God Bless you. It is my hope that "the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; and the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”  Numbers 24-26

Molding Tomorrow's Leaders Through Educational Excellence Today

"All legislative powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and a House of Representatives." United States Constitution, Article 1, Section 1.

This past Tuesday, Congressman Alan Nunnelee visited MHS to speak with our students. He first spoke with the 5th and 6th grade students and afterward to an assembly of 7th-12th grade students.

To the 5th and 6th grade students, he not only explained his job and what his responsibilities entailed, but he also encouraged them to pursue their dreams. The story of his visit to the state capitol as a Boy Scout and how it spurred him into public service was captivating. He also stressed to them that even though teachers can teach you how to read, it’s the love of reading that opens up all doors. He compared a library to a time machine that could take you anywhere to any point in time, to learn about anyone or any topic. With the gift of books and a love for reading, the sky is the limit as to your dreams and possibilities.

Financial Principles Class

With grades 7 through 12 the topics turned to more serious issues. A few of the more weighty questions were: what happened to the Malaysia flight; what do you think about the Russian invasion of Crimea; how Obama Care would affect them; and, how he felt on the “Right to Life.” It was a rare opportunity for our students to meet and interact with someone that deals with such weighty issues each day. He shared that our country is the greatest experiment ever and that any of them could indeed serve as a legislator, governor, congressman or president if that’s what they set their minds to do.

Molding Tomorrow’s Leaders Through Educational Excellence Today is our motto. Listening to the congressman on Tuesday, I affirmed in my mind how our motto plays out in the lives of our students each day. We truly do have the opportunity each day to shape our community, state, and nation through our students. Thanks again to Coach Barry Coleman for coordinating his visit and to Walt Starr who heads the congressman’s Hernando office.

Where are we and where are we going?

Today is the first day of spring break. To keep pace with the ever-changing face of education, I read as much as I can squeeze in. This past week while reading a number of news articles and blogs citing new and exciting advances in education; a common theme seemed to resonate - how far the United States lags behind the rest of the world. There seem to be many new ideas on how it (education) should be done, but I was struck with the number of ways Magnolia Heights is already on the cutting edge. As an example:

• ACT Prep Course for All 11^th graders. MHS began an ACT Prep program several years ago and recently required all 11^th graders to take the class. Students meet each day where they review their previous ACT results as well as strengthen their test-taking skills. We have seen a significant rise in our ACT scores at all levels.
• Increased emphasis on Dual Enrollment/Dual Credit Courses. MHS is now into its 8^th year of offering our students college credit while at the same time enrolled in high school courses. Students have the opportunity to start their college years with up to 12 hours of college credit. While we could offer more classes, but we understand that many colleges want to teach the math and science classes required for many professional studies programs, like engineering and math, on their campuses to students entering their programs.
• Increased opportunities in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). MHS now offers an Honors track in math and science. In physics, engineering concepts are incorporated into the basic curriculum. They were very excited about their Rube Goldberg projects  where they built apparatuses to complete a task like popping a ballon or turn on a switch. Click here to learn more about these projects. For many years MHS students have participated in local, district and state science fairs where for the past 15 years or more have never placed lower than third in the overall state (schools are given points for placing in the fairs and the top 5 are always recognized). This spring the school is investigating a program called MAD-Learn (Mobile App Development) where students will design apps for mobile devices. Although this will be piloted in in grades 10-12, the curriculum is designed for third grade and up. How cool would it be for our third graders to design apps for their class! Students in our Computer Application II class are currently creating most of the material the school will use as part of the Apple Distinguished School Application process.
• Increased professional development opportunities for faculty. For the second year in a row MHS teachers will attend iSummit Conference at The Westminster School in Atlanta Georgia. As a member of the Coalition of Lighthouse Schools, MHS teachers will spend three days learning from other educators how to use technology in and out the classroom. I was pleased that during some of our recent school closures, several of our teachers pushed out assignments to their students to compensate for the loss of class time brought on by the school closures. This is called “reverse instruction" or “flipping the classroom.” As part of our leadership to other schools, Magnolia Heights will be hosting over 50 teachers and administrators from a dozen schools in April to demonstrate how we are utilizing technology in the educational process. 

Although I could go on, I think my point is made. Magnolia Heights will continue to provide its parents and students with the very finest college preparatory education in the area. We realize and understand that it is a financial burden on many of our parents to send their children to MHS. However, we, as I did with my two sons, view it as an investment in our children's education - an investment that does indeed pay dividends. As a result we will continue to push the educational envelope while at the same time cherishing the proven, tried and true methods of instruction. We understand that we must provide extra value added opportunities for our students. I am so blessed to be a part of this great school.

I hope everyone has a blessed and safe spring break!

Here we go!

The second semester is off and running. It's hard to believe, but we are on the downhill slide toward the end of school. The school year is really passing quickly.

Miss Allison's 5-K

Today our pre-school students celebrated 100 days with a parade though the elementary and secondary hallways. On the other end of the grade spectrum, our seniors are already making plans for graduation. Invitations and caps and gowns are being ordered and soon will be here.  Basketball and soccer seasons are winding down toward the playoffs, and baseball and the other spring sports are right around the corner.

However, even though extra-curricular activities are ongoing, our students are working hard in the classroom as well. The second batch of ACT scores are in, and it looks like our 11th grade ACT Prep class (new this year) taught by Mrs. Meg Woods is already paying dividends. I love to visit and watch the students work the ACT questions using their MacBooks while Mrs. Woods utilizes her iPad and Apple TV to show the correct solutions to the questions. Because of her and our other teachers' extraordinary efforts, we will soon be announcing a new crop of Mississippi Eminent Scholars (29+ on ACT) from Magnolia Heights School.

2013 MHS Science Fair

The date for the MHS Science Fair has been set (Monday, February 24th), and I'm looking forward to all the great projects and their progression to district and state competition. The research papers have been submitted to Dr. Self and Mrs. Goodwin, and students are now making final preparations for the presentation of their projects. Students are using their MacBooks for graphs and other project components, and I can already see more creativity, collaboration and critical thinking - all essential tenets of 21st Century Education.


Our 7th and 8th grade students are piloting the use of iPads this semester. Each section of our 7th and 8th grades will use the iPads in the classroom and take them home at night to use in completing homework and projects. At the end of the semester feedback will provide insight into which device (MacBook or iPad) that 7th and 8th grade students will use next year. Additionally, 10th grade students in Mrs. Poe's Group Projects Class are creating projects comparing the devices and will be making presentations later this spring with their conclusions. We will use this information as well to help us as we make our final decision.

Soon our parents, as well as other parents who visit us during our preview day, will be making decisions about enrolling their children for the upcoming school year. It's not difficult to look around and see the quality college preparatory educations their children are receiving. One can walk through the halls on any day and see, hear, and feel this evidence. As a parent of two MHS graduates, it makes me so proud to know that our tradition of excellence not only continues but also strives to get even better each year. This is not the work of one person or one particular group, but the collective efforts of many. If you know of anyone who might be interested in our school, please have them call Mrs. Allison Burris for more information or to set up a tour.


As we go forward, please make plans to visit our school for a play, a game, or a Parent's Club function. I also hope that you will download our new MHS app for your Apple or Android device. We are now utilizing it, and its functions will continue to grow to inform an even greater audience of the great things here on "the Hill."

Wishing you a Blessed and Joyous Holiday...

May your heart be lifted in praise this Christmas
for the wonderful gift of Jesus
and the joy He brings to our lives.
Have a wonderful Christmas
and a Blessed New Year.

Thankful...

It’s hard to believe that our first semester is almost gone. It has been a whirlwind. From our new technology initiative, to state championship appearances in softball and football, to the normal hustle and bustle of school life, it has been busy. However, we must not lose sight of the real reason we are here; to prepare our students for college and life beyond. As we passed Thanksgiving I gave thanks to God for our school, our students, our parents, and our faculty.

Even though we are at the forefront of technology, we have not lost sight that even the greatest gadget can't teach students--that requires people to choose the curriculum, manage the devices, and lead engaging classes. And even though we have our students the majority of the day, we cannot take the place of loving and nurturing parents in the lives of our students. We take our responsibility of educating our students seriously. Scripture tells us to “train up the child in the way he should go.” We touch the future every day at MHS and I am thankful for those opportunities.

I’m also grateful and thankful that we live in a country where we are free and I am especially grateful for those men and women fighting to keep us that way. Let us never lose sight of their sacrifices.

Finally, let’s not forget the real reason for the season – Jesus. God’s only son came to Earth over 2000 years ago; lived a life to teach us grace, humility, and service; suffered a brutal death for our sins; and then rose that we too could overcome death and spend eternity with Him.

I hope that during this time you will also reflect and offer your own prayers of thanksgiving for your many blessings.

May you have a blessed and joyful Holiday Season and a very Merry Christmas!