First Quater
October 2014
Principal’s Message—Mrs. McGinley
Belonging: A Crucial Part of School
“This is my place; this is where I belong!” These are the confident words
of people who have found acceptance, ownership, and affirmation in an
environment where they feel they truly belong –a place or a situation that
is right for them.
A feeling of belonging is as essential to the mental, emotional, and physical health of a person as soil is to sprouting seeds of grass. Belonging is
home and love and nurture; it is acceptance, stability, and affirmation of
individual worth as a person. Every person seeks it; every human needs
it; and every student deserves it and must have it if growth and learning
are to take place.
At MJHS, we know how
essential it is for students to
have a genuine feeling of
belonging, and we believe
that this feeling of belonging
is the baseline on which
learning is built.
At MJHS, we know how essential it is for students to have a genuine feeling of belonging, and we believe that this feeling of belonging is the baseline on which learning is built. Our commitment to this belief prompts us to
take specific actions and employ some explicit strategies which will develop a sense of belonging in each student.
First, we plan for each student who comes into the school to enter into an
environment that is safe and secure. We want students to feel safe and
secure in our halls, restrooms, cafeteria, classrooms, and everywhere
they go in the building throughout the school year. The Olweus Bully Prevention Program through wellness classes and full faculty and staff support to prevent bullying and harassment is one example of our commitment to a safe school environment. These matters remain a highest priority concern throughout the school year as we seek to continually improve
the school environment, without arousing inappropriate anxiety in students.
When it comes to academics, we plan for and work toward success for
each student. Various practices are used in each classroom to diagnose
performance and address students’ needs for review and re-teaching.
Personal help from the teacher often moves students toward the success
that is envisioned. Intervention programs use strategies to provide the
In This Issue

Principal’s Message

iReach

Community
Involvement

Testing Calendar

Class News

The Arts

Sports & More
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Principal’s Message continued
help needed and to ensure that each student has more intense remediation if appropriate.
We also work toward helping each student grow and develop socially and emotionally. The
need for friendships and acceptance among peers is part of a student’s feeling of belonging. These needs are nurtured and their fulfillment is carefully guided by the entire school
staff. Relationships with a variety of people within the school feed the student’s feeling of
belonging. Participation in activities, athletics, fine arts, and clubs fosters a feeling of belonging, and, for this reason we structure and sponsor a wide variety of opportunities in
which students can engage.
Sometimes it is easy to think that only young students need to feel they belong at school.
But older students also need assurances that they are accepted and can share in the ownership of their school.
Teachers, as well as support staff, make a concerted effort to help every student feel that
someone cares about him or her and values his or her presence in the school. The MJHS
teachers, principals, teaching assistants, school counselors, librarian, office staff, cafeteria
staff, and custodian make a conscious effort to be the students’ mentors and to let students
know that they are student-centered.
A genuine feeling of belonging is important to learning and healthy development. Every
student needs to be able to say, “This is my classroom; this is my school; this is my place.
This is where I belong.” When students can say this out of the honesty of their own beliefs,
then, and only then, can we say we have fully met the goal of the MJHS mission: “building a
bridge to success for every student through unified efforts”.
Dear Parents,
This is a reminder that the designated student drop-off and pick-up before and after school
is at the entrance at the back of the school. Maryville First United Methodist Church, across
the street from the school, has allowed parents to use their parking facilities to drop-off and
pick-up students and continue to allow parents this access. If you choose to drop-off and
pick-up your student in the church parking lot, students must use the cross-walk to cross
Montvale Station Road. Students are not to be dropped off or picked up on any public
street, the school bus loading and unloading area, or front of the school.
Sergeant Chad Simpson, Maryville Police Department (MPD), have informed us the MPD
will issue citations to motorist for obstructing traffic on Montvale Station Road. As per the
following Municipal Ordinance 11-704 Interference with Traffic: It shall be unlawful for any
person to stand, sit, or engage in any activity whatever on any public street, sidewalk,
bridge, or public ground in such a manner as to prevent, obstruct, or interfere unreasonably
with the free passage of pedestrian or vehicular traffic thereon. (1985 Code, § 10-233)
Respectfully,
The MJHS Administrative Team
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
We are already into our second month implementing new and exciting initiatives regarding infusing
critical technology into the MJHS school day. The initiative is called iReach. It is a multi-year phased
roll-out of laptop computers to schools in Maryville City, and ultimately to Maryville students. Its mission is to infuse technology and shift instructional practices that create limitless learning opportunities for all 21st Century learners (every child) in Maryville City Schools. The three-year implementation plan includes the following key milestones:
Phase 1 (Explore) in 2014-2015:
Roughly 30% of Maryville teachers are participating in a pilot phase of the program (early adopters).
At MJHS, this includes 14 teachers from both grades and across departments.
iReach Update
The laptops are being used for in-school instruction only. They are not going home with students
during this phase. For those students and parents concerned that the technology used at school
does not match the technology available at home, we are including instructions so that students can
create and save work at home using the same technology they use at school for absolutely free.
All MJHS teachers (whether early adopters or not) are receiving specialized training throughout the
year to learn how to use certain software and tools to help make learning more accessible, relevant,
and engaging.
All MJHS teachers (whether early adopters or not) are required to use our Learning Management
System called Blackboard. Teachers are required to list assignments for their classes on their assignment calendar. Most of what students and parents will need to know regarding Blackboard will
come from the assignment calendar. Grades are still being shared through PowerSchool.
Teachers will work to find the proper balance for activities where technology is infused into instruction and those where it is best to limit technology. Students may report using laptops frequently
throughout the day in several classes on some days. On other days, they might use their laptops
very little, if at all.
Phase 2 (Engage) 2015-2016:
All MJHS students will be provided a laptop to use both during school and at home to complete work.
There will likely be required parent and student training regarding device features and care. More
details will come at a later date.
Training for teachers will continue regarding using the technology resources to extend instruction
and personalize learning. Teachers will begin to use a larger number of tools to these ends.
Phase 3 (Empower) 2016 and Beyond:
Teacher training will continue to emphasize deepened, rigorous, relevant, and personalized instruction using technology as a catalyst.
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Microsoft Office has always been part of the backbone of home computing, but moving files back
and forth from school to home has always presented some challenges. To make these transitions
easier, we have a few options that are already available to all students.
Microsoft Office Online
Technology at Home
To access Microsoft Office programs like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote on the cloud, students have active accounts at http://webmail.maryville-schools.org. Their login information is the same as their school network login except with an
@students.maryville-schools.org after their username. Once
logged in, there is a “OneDrive” tab they can access that will let
them create, upload, or share Office files.
Microsoft Office Home Download
Thanks to our licensing with Microsoft Office 365, students are
able to download Microsoft Office to their home computers for
free. The steps for doing this can be found online at http://
bitly.com/mjhsoffice .
Creating Blackboard Parent Accounts
To create a parent account for Blackboard, go to http://
blackboard.maryville-schools.org and follow the instructions. You’ll
need to have your students lunch number handy to complete registration. After registering, it may take up to 2 weeks for your account
to be approved and created.
Logging in to Blackboard Parent Accounts
To login to Blackboard, go to http://maryvilleschools.blackboard.com . This address is very similar to the address
for signing up for Blackboard, so make sure you’re entering it
correctly.
Help Navigating Blackboard
As we all get used to Blackboard, the best tool for Blackboard help is your student. In most cases,
many students are using Blackboard to some degree every day. We are working on creating Blackboard tutorials that will be accessible from the Blackboard login page, but they are still under development.
Tech Support
If you have any trouble with technology issues at MJHS, please feel free to open a support ticket by
going to http://bitly.com/mjhshelpdesk
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Fall Fundraiser—Enjoy the City Coupon Books
Thank you students, parents and community members for supporting our fall fundraiser. The money from the coupon book
sales will be used for classroom improvements, technology and
student incentives. Caden G. (8th) and Azarieon S. (9th) were
our top sellers. They each received a $50 gift card to Dick’s
Sporting Goods. Mrs. Capozzoli’s first period drama class and
Mr. Daughtery’s first period English class won the top selling
classroom competition and celebrated with a cookie cake party.
Ten students won $10 Chick-fil-A gift cards, ten students won
$10 Starbucks gift cards, five students won $20 Target gift
cards and five students won $20 gift cards to Carmike Cinemas.
Our Enjoy the City sales representative gave us an iPad Mini
grand prize which was won by Sarah H. Our students worked
together to raise $16,820 in sales. Congratulations to our winners, and thank you to everyone who participated.
Orchestra—Rummage Sale
What: MJHS Orchestra Rummage Sale
When: Saturday Oct 25th
Where: MJHS
Time: 8:00am-12:00pm *Rain or Shine!
Anyone looking to donate to our fundraiser may drop off items in the orchestra room any time before the
sale. All proceeds will go to the Orchestra program!
Please contact Mrs. Finck if you have any further questions: [email protected]
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Parents – We hope to see you at the Parent-to-Parent Informative Meetings during the 20142015 School Year. Please make note of the following meeting dates:
Parent Advisory Council
Parent to Parent
Friday, November 7, 2014 – 8:15-9:30 am, “Transitions and Timelines from MJHS to MHS to College,” Part II, presented by Mr. David Ellis, Counselor and Coach at MHS.
Friday, February 6, 2015 – 8:15-9:30 am, “What Parents Need to Know: Updates and New Information on Internet and Mobile Device Safety,” presented by Detective Keith Hackney of the
Blount County Sheriff’s Department H.E.A.T Unit.
Parents of MJHS, MHS, MRIS, and CGIS are cordially invited to attend. If you have questions
please contact Ms. Cates at MJHS, 983-2070.
Meetings are sponsored in partnership by :
Our goal as parents is to support the staff of MJHS in their efforts to teach our children by providing
"helping hands," expressing appreciation and encouragement to the teachers and staff, and to initiate fundraising events to provide funds for some educational "extras."
Parent participation is the key to a successful PAC program. Your support through volunteer efforts
and/or fundraising activities is vital. We greatly appreciate all of you and hope all parents choose to
join PAC. Our goal is to make the MJHS experience a rewarding one for everyone involved: students, staff, and parents.
All parents are encouraged to join PAC and support your child through
supporting MJHS. Membership forms will be available online and can
now be picked up and submitted with the membership fee (which is just
$10 annually per family) in the main office.
Your comments, suggestions and creative ideas are always welcome. Please feel free to contact any of the committee members or
school officials. Together we can make a difference in our children's
education!
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
MJHS Testing Calendar
2nd 9 Weeks
October 29
Explore: 8th Grade
October 30
Explore Make-up
November 17-21
ACT Aspire: 9th Grade
December 15-18
Semester Exams: 8th & 9th Grades
Dec 15
English
Dec 16
A Day Elective
Dec 17
Math and Science
Dec 18
B Day Elective
3rd 9 Weeks
February 2-March 6
WiDA: ELL Students
February 9-13
Writing Assessment: 8th Grade
February 17-20
Writing Assessment: 9th Grade
February 26
NAEP 8th Grade
4th 9 Weeks
April 27-May 1
TCAP: 8th Grade
April 14
TCAP Social Studies Field Test: 8th Grade
April 13-May 8
U.S. History Field Test: 9th Grade
May 4
Algebra 1 EOC: 8th & 9th Grades
May 5
English 1 EOC: 9th Grade
May 6
Algebra 1 EOC and English EOC Make-up Tests: 8th & 9th Grades
May 7
Biology EOC: 9th Grade
May 8
EOC Make-up Tests: 8th & 9th Grades
May 12
AP Human Geography Exam 8:00 A.M.
May 18-21
Final/Semester Exams: 8th & 9th Grades
May 18
English
May 19
A Day Elective
May 20
Math and Science
May 21
B Day Elective
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
8th Grade Science
8th Grade Math
Students in Pre-Algebra have been hard at work learning
about expressions, solving equations, scientific notation, and
exponents. Students in Algebra I have explored the real number system, equations, and inequalities. Students are also
learning about the characteristics of functions and will soon
take a deeper look into linear functions.
8th Grade Language Arts
In the science department we have a couple of competitions
that are getting underway. Some of the 8th grade honors class
students are starting their science fair projects that will culminate in the school science fair in January, with the winners going on to the regional science in late March/early April. In addition, we will be holding tryouts for the science bowl early in the
second quarter for competition in February. The department
was issued a grant to purchase new TI-Inspire calculators
which will be used with our Vernier probe-ware to enhance the
lab experience for all of our students. Both 8th and 9th grade
students will be introduced to research skills over the entire
year to help prepare them for future endeavors.
Most eighth grade language arts teachers are early adopters
this year. We have embarked on a new adventure. The students have been so patient and helpful as we tried to open
our literature textbook early in the nine weeks. We were eventually successful and needed even more time to get the grammar workbook working online. Each and every day is a new
lesson in technology. The laptops have opened a new world
of opportunities, and we are truly evolving into "technological
gurus."
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
8th Grade Social Studies
8th Grade S.T.E.M.
Gateway to Technology
The first nine weeks students studied the colonization of America. From the first days of Jamestown and Plymouth to the later
stages of “the thirteen original colonies,” themes of early colonization were analyzed in great detail. As the colonies began to
grow and develop, ideas like self-government began to take hold
of the American conscious. Students discussed and evaluated
in depth, the roots of American independence, and eventually
the war for independence itself. Finally, the nine weeks concluded with a look at the government set up by our founding fathers.
The first nine weeks, students explored the Design Process
by building a bridge out of two sheets of copy paper and glue
that would hold 215 pounds! Next we learned how to measure all the way down to 1/16 of an inch on a Standard ruler. We also learned how to read a metric ruler and convert
Standard to Metric and vice versa. Next, students learned
how to measure 3D objects using a Dial Micrometer down to a
thousandths of an inch. From there we started learning how
to sketch and make Orthographic, Isometric, 1 and 2 Point
Perspective Drawings.
The second nine weeks students will learn how to use a 3D
modeling software called Autodesk Inventor. Inventor is required knowledge for many Engineer and technical drawing
careers. We then will draw and assemble a playground in
Inventor for practice. After that, students will test their skills
with inventions and we will print their creations on our 3D
Printer!
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
9th Grade English
9th Grade CP World History and Geography
In English, MJHS freshmen began their academic year diving in to a variety of short stories. They
cheered on Rainsford, protagonist of Richard Connell’s “The Most Dangerous Game” as he called
forth wit and sheer nerve to elude capture through tangled Caribbean jungle. They reacted with
horror as Fortunato succumbed to Montresor’s clever use of reverse psychology in Poe’s “The
Cask of Amontillado” – and with compassion for the young American soldier, marching with his
platoon in Vietnam, as he struggled to tame his fear in Tim O’Brien’s “Where Have You Gone,
Charming Billy?” While these stories entertained, they also served as a vehicles for engaging our
students in close reading, inquiry-based discussion, and analytic writing. Through our study of stories, students practiced active reading strategies they’ll call on as lifelong readers and thinkers. In
addition, they came to understand that it often takes digging, collaboration, and rigorous thought to
answer essential questions like these about the narratives they’ll encounter through life: How –
and why -- do we tell stories? What devices do authors use to make stories, conflicts and characters come to life? And -- if stories have deeper meanings, how does one go about discovering, or
interpreting that meaning?
Something new and exciting is afoot in the MJHS social studies
department. The iReach program is in full swing, and our department has been designated for the early adopter program. Classrooms are equipped with laptop computers, and students have
had the opportunity to learn and explore in new and interconnected ways. Mr. Landers and Mr. Dixon’s world history classes began the year studying the Enlightenment and its impact on social
and political revolutions. Students read important documents of
the Enlightenment era and analyzed how they influenced revolutionary thought. A research project challenged students to create
multimedia presentations highlighting the philosophies of the
greatest enlightenment thinkers. From Rousseau and Montesquieu to Jefferson and Locke, students demonstrated their expertise in a history fair centering on revolutionary ideas and democratic principles. An in-depth study of the French Revolution followed, as students examined its lasting impact on nationalism and
democracy. Students then plunged headlong into a research assignment on the Scientific Revolution. Finally, students finished
out the grading period by examining the profound changes that
took root following the Industrial Revolution. Using primary documents, students discovered firsthand both the wonderful achievements and dark underworld of industrialization.
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
9th Grade AP Human
Geography
9th Grade S.T.E.M.
Introduction to Engineering
Mr. Dixon’s classroom is equipped with laptop computers, and students have had the opportunities
to learn and explore in new and interconnected ways. Mr. Dixon’s AP students got their feet wet in
a new curriculum by learning how geographers measure change and continuity across space. Students created insightful pictorial essays highlighting the human imprint on our planet’s diverse
landscapes. Memorable topics included “The Cultural Landscape of Hipsters,” “The Cultural Landscape of Nestle Cookies,” and “The Cultural Landscape of Consumerism.” After studying the nature and perspectives of geography, Mr. Dixon’s students explored the potential outcomes of population explosion and human migration. Students imagined what life would be like if the population
of countries around the world were proportionately condensed into a village of 100 inhabitants.
The first nine weeks, students explored the Design Process by building a bridge out of two sheets of
copy paper and glue that would hold 215 pounds! Next we learned how to measure all the way down
to 1/16 of an inch on a Standard ruler. We also learned how to read a metric ruler and convert Standard to Metric and vice versa. Next, students learned how to measure 3D objects using a Dial Micrometer down to a thousandths of an inch. From there we started learning how to sketch and make Orthographic, Isometric, 1 and 2 Point Perspective Drawings.
The second nine weeks students will learn how to use a 3D modeling software called Autodesk Inventor. Inventor is required knowledge for many Engineer and technical drawing careers. We then will
draw and assemble a playground in Inventor for practice. After that, students will test their skills with
inventions and we will print their creations on our 3D Printer!
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Through technology classes embedded in core curriculum, MJHS students learn and
apply creative, real-world, relevant technological tools. The following is a sampling of the
general Common Core, cross-curricular projects students have or will experience this
school year:
Computer Applications
Independent research projects: These projects require extensive database research, inquiry, documentation, close reading of informational text, graphing, and citation.
Presentations: Students will research mathematicians from B.C. to current day
and create and give PowerPoint presentations that meet business industry public speaking standards.
Independent Novel Study and Promotional Marketing: Students use Microsoft
Word and Microsoft Publisher graphic design software to create author marketing kits
that include “sell sheets,” student-written book descriptions and reviews, and book
marks that accurately reflect the tone, voice, content, characters, plot, and retail appeal
of independent novels while meeting publishing and social media industry standards.
The bookmarks will be on display in the library and available to all MJHS students.
Digital Citizenship: Students learn how to be “ good digital citizens” in the modern
world.
9TH GRADE “STUDENT ANTHOLOGY PROJECT”
During the 2014-2015 academic year, MJHS 9th grade Computer Application students
will complete a comprehensive assignment called the “Student Anthology Project.” This
is a highly technical, cross-curricular, multi-day lesson that addresses the majority of
Computer Applications and English I standards in a meaningful way. Students will compose, proof, edit, and design their own creative work in the form of a printed anthology.
They will be published authors! Please encourage your child to participate fully and anticipate an exciting “real world” product in which he or she can take great academic
pride.
Students submitted artwork and title recommendations for the 9th grade student
anthology project. Winners have been selected. Congratulations to Hannah H.
and Lauren H. for creating the winning title: #beyond words (Say "hashtag, beyond words"). Congratulations to Haley K. for her beautiful artwork, which will be
featured on the front cover of the book.
The anthology will not be available to the general public. All students will complete the
assignment in class, however, students may elect not to be included in the final print
book. Also, only students’ first names will be printed alongside their work in the anthology. Once the project is complete, parents and students will be able to order copies of the
MJHS anthology at cost. The price will be determined by the final page count, size, trim,
and shipping fees.
Please contact computer applications teachers Jody Dyer or Sherri McCall if you have
any questions about this assignment. We appreciate your help in making the MJHS student anthology an enriching, rewarding, 21st Century experience for our students.
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Spanish Classes
Saludos parents and community! Great things are happening in las clases de español this
year. I am impressed daily by the growth and achievement of students in Spanish levels
one and two. Spanish one students have mastered greeting others in the target language
and having simple (complete!) conversations en español, as well as the Spanish alphabet
and numbers 0-100. The first nine weeks we learned how to tell time, talk about the
weather and geography, and describe ourselves and others in the target language.
Spanish two students are studying a Spanish novel called Casi se muere as they review important grammar concepts and vocabulary from their year in Spanish one. As they learn about the life and travels of
the young character Ana their vocabularies are growing and their grammar is strengthening. I am always
impressed by how much Spanish my level two students use! Soon we will begin talking about past events
and how to travel by plane, train, and bus in a Spanish-speaking country.
French II
French I
Please keep an eye on Blackboard as class events are posted weekly. Thank you for all of your support!
The focus of these first few weeks of French has
been primarily guided conversation such as introductions and greetings, saying your birthday, and
talking about the weather. We have also studied
where French is spoken around the world and the
geography of France. Before Fall Break, students
learned all the forms of the verb être to be and
some adjectives so that they can describe themselves and others. They also learned vocabulary
for school subjects, classroom supplies, and school
schedules. We also discussed some similarities
and differences in the school systems in France
and the United States.
French II began with a review of grammar concepts like the formation of regular and irregular verbs and the agreement and placement of adjectives. As a summative writing piece for the review unit,
students interviewed each other with survey questions and compared their answers with their partners. In chapter 1 Les Sports, students learned vocabulary for various team sports, and we began
learning le passé composé for regular verbs. We also looked at the
most popular team sports in France - le football soccer, le rugby, and
le cyclisme.
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Latin I & II
Salvete! Latin didn't die with the Romans. It is alive and well at MJHS! The Latin 1 students are, of
course, taking their first steps in learning this classical language. They have discovered that Latin is the
basis for the modern Romance languages and that it provides the roots to many English vocabulary
words. They are also learning how to translate a language that has more flexible word order and fewer
words (no articles, pronoun subjects, etc.). Greek and Roman mythology is also a focus in Latin 1, and we
have begun our study of the gods. After Fall Break, we'll study the goddesses.
Latin 2 is back in the saddle. We have finished "clearing out the cobwebs" (AKA, reviewing) and will
spend much of this first semester completing our study of Latin verb tenses, both active and passive. By
Fall Break, the students will have completed a unit on Roman Dress & Appearance. Toga, toga, toga!!!
Teen Living
Sugar cookies, blueberry muffins, and brownies – Oh my! Where could
those delicious smells, in the MJHS hallways, be coming from? They must
be coming from the warm ovens and smiling faces in room 201!
Our Teen Living and Family & Consumer Science classes have started off
the year with a bang! Students have been working hard to prepare our kitchens and their minds for an exciting year! We’ve been busy organizing our
kitchens, learning about kitchen utensils, familiarizing ourselves with various
cooking techniques, and learning how to keep our kitchen environments
clean and tidy! Students tapped in to their creative side by competing in our
own version of the Food Network’s “Chopped!” television show. We have
also begun our unit on personal finance and nutrition to help students understand the value of planning meals on a budget. They’ll get lots of practice as
they apply their knowledge by creating menus and grocery lists. As we roll
towards the end of our 1st quarter, we are looking forward to expanding our
consumer knowledge as sharing our cooking skills with the rest of MJHS!
If parents are every interested in donating items to help our class, we can
always use more of the following: sugar, paper towels, paper plates, dish
soap, Kool-Aid, bags/boxes of cake or cookie mixes, and anything else that
comes our way. Thank you!
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Ms. Rader’s Class
Our class has been busy working on parts of speech, sentence structure, and how to make our writing
more exciting for readers! We have also been learning how to add and subtract money, and how to
solve real world problems involving money. We are looking forward to a great year of learning and fun!
Mrs. McHenry’s Study Tips
When getting back into the routine of preparing for assessments, it is important for everyone to keep
in mind various studying tips! Below are a variety of ways to make studying more effective and relieve anxiety about these upcoming assessments.

Don’t try to do all of your studying the night before the test. Break down your studying into sections, so that you don’t get overwhelmed with all of the material.

Have all of your study material in front of you: lecture notes, course textbooks, study guides and
any other relevant material.

Take short breaks frequently. Your memory retains the information that you study at the beginning and the end better than what you study in the middle

Don't study later than the time you usually go to sleep, you may fall asleep or be tempted to go to
sleep, instead try studying in the afternoon or early evening. If you are a morning person try studying in the morning

Make sure that you understand the material well, don't just read through the material and try to
memorize everything

Learn the general concepts first, don't worry about learning the details until you have learned the
main ideas.
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
ESL
The ESL class at MJHS is happy to welcome several new students this year. In our eighth grade class,
we have two new students from Coulter Grove Intermediate School, Sindy C. and Yuna K. We also
have joining us two new students, Ayato S. from Japan, and Srushti P. from India. We are happy they
have joined our class.
In the ninth grade ESL English class, we are studying parts of speech including verbs. We are also reading a book entitled Drita, My Homegirl. This book is the story of a girl who comes to the US from Kosovo
and how she makes new friends. In the eighth grade ESL English class, we are also studying parts of
speech and we are reading a book entitled Where is Taro? This is the story of a boy who comes to the
U.S. from Japan and is lost trying to find his way home from school. Later we will read The Magic Finger, a story of a girl who has magical powers. Both eighth and ninth grades are also practicing grammar
conventions with the computer program “Study Island.” This program strengthens grammar, reading,
and writing skills.
In the World Geography class that all ESL students are studying Physical Geography. We are learning
about land forms and bodies of water. Each student constructed a globe using a balloon and paper. Later we will study Japan, India, Central America, the United States, and current events.
We are looking forward to a great year in ESL.
Ms. Capozzoli’s Drama classes have been very busy working on a variety of projects and
performances!!
Drama
Drama II: Intermediate (9th Grade) has been involved in presenting Talk Shows and Talent Shows and
Readers’ Theatre Interpretations of children’s stories.
Drama I: (8th & 9th Grade) has been playing many theatre games and getting-to-know you activities,
learning various theatre terms, stage positions and body movement, along with performances in talent
& talk shows, pantomime, duet scenes, and many other group activities. We continue to grow as an
ensemble and are looking forward to putting on our winter show for parents and the school!
Our Christmas show, The Little Town of Christmas, will be on December 11th & 12th during the regular
school day. All Drama students will be involved in these performances.
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
8TH GRADE WELLNESS – MRS. COULTER
MJHS 8th grade Wellness students have completed their first Health unit on Sexual Harassment
Training. Students now understand what sexual harassment is. They have a better understanding of
the Title IX Law that protects them in a public school setting, how to recognize when sexual harassment is happening, how to stop sexual harassment, how to report it, and how to help other students
when they are being sexually harassed. At the end of the unit all 8th grade students signed a contract with the school stating that they would help to make the school free from sexual harassment,
and they would help to protect their friends and others from sexual harassment, as well.
Wellness
9th GRADE WELLNESS – COACH BEATY
The 9th grade Wellness class has hit the ground running this fall. From Substance Use and Abuse
and the District Attorney General Flynn and Judge Harrington’s Drug Court participants, there has
been little time for rest or relaxation from the core classes. Attorney General Flynn and Judge Harrington’s Drug Court participants humbly spoke to the students in Wellness class and discussed how
real-life choices have real-life consequences, good and bad. This year’s class theme is “real conversations about real situations.”
We also have had Mr. Jeffrey Coy, Executive Director of the East Tennessee Rowing Organization
come and speak to our students about another wonderful opportunity for students to get involved in
outside of school. Thank you to our students, parents, and community for another great start to and
AWESOME school year.
8TH AND 9TH GRADE WELLNESS – MRS. BABELAY AND MR. MALONE
The 8th and 9th grade Wellness classes are up and running in the gym for the start of the school
year! The first two weeks of school, the students participated in team building games which provided
opportunities to meet and learn about their peers. Next, we introduced Pickle-Ball. A great game that
has been around for years but has recently become more popular. Then, the students participated in
FasketBall. The game is a mix of football and basketball and you score through a hula hoop connected to the basketball goal. We are currently completing of our “Crazy Games” week. If you are
needing more explanation of one of our activities, ask your son or daughter to share what we have
been enjoying in gym class with you!
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Art Department
Art Competition
The Art 80 and also Art I classes are off to great (and busy!) starts! Students have begun the year by
reviewing and expanding upon the visual elements of art and compositional principles of design. Students have worked with fun creativity “tests” (activities, really!), symmetry/asymmetry, realism/
abstraction, line, contour drawings, blind contour drawings, continuous-line portraiture, value, shading
techniques, sketchbook work, FUN personal Zen tangles, and even some COOL mandalas! Mini
"critiques" have taken place along the way as well. Students are familiar with certain famous artists
and such artists' work too---ask them about it! Be sure to check out the art bulletin boards, displaying
beautiful student artwork (located just outside the art room). Projects look great, students; way to go!
You guys are AWESOME!!!
Also, the art students LOVE freebies and hand-me-downs!!! Trust us when we say that one person's
trash is another one's treasure! Should you EVER feel the need to donate ANY items (ANY items!),
we'll be so very appreciative of your generosity! Such items may include (but are certainly not limited
to) paper towel rolls, containers, tubes, jars, lids, scrap building materials, tile samples, wallpaper sample books, posters, outdated magazines/gift catalogues, ribbons/trimmings/yarn, empty spools, displays/display items, old mixing bowls, furniture, old greeting cards, unused Styrofoam trays/cartons,
excess colored wire, wooden crates, etc...). We'll show you JUST how creative we can be with such
donations...you'll see! And, MANY, MANY, MANY thanks to you guys who have donated items already! THANKS SO MUCH!!!
HUGE congratulations go out to our art students for SWEEPING AWAY the competition at the 8th Annual Blue Ribbon Country Fair's Student Art Competition, hosted by the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage
Center!!! The Best of Show for Middle School (8th grade) AND ALSO First-place goes to Katie T., winner of two special ribbons and a $30.00 cash prize. Second and third-place winners in the middle
school (8th grade) category are Payton M. and Rachel O., both winning ribbons and cash prizes. The
Best of Show for High School (9th grade) AND ALSO First-place goes to Haley K., winner of two special
ribbons and a $30.00 cash prize. Second and third-place winners in the high school category (9th
grade) are Katherine M. and Mayuki M., both winning ribbons and cash prizes as well. Congratulations
for sweeping away the competition, MJHS art students!!!
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Art Club
Archery Club
Rowing Team
The Art MJHS Club is off to a strong start with many interested participants! The
excited and outgoing club members will be keeping very busy by making banners, working on art competition items, making yarn “stuff,” drawing, painting
(ceiling tiles---yeehoo!), and perhaps even clay work! Fun shall be had by all in
the process! The MJHS Art Club will meet every third Wednesday of each
month during the school year in the art room from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Membership
fee is only $5.00 per student per year, and sponsor is Ms. Julie Drake. Members
are encouraged to bring their own snacks to each meeting…and/or perhaps
store-bought snacks to share with ALL members!
There will be open sign-up for MJHS Archery Club until Winter
Break. Archery Club will begin after Winter Break. If you have
questions please see Coach Spencer Beaty at MJHS.
The Rowing Team is a co-ed sports club that allows MJHS and MHS students the unique opportunity to
participate in the sport of Olympic style competitive rowing. It operates in partnership with East Tennessee Rowing Organization (ETRO). Practices began on September 2nd and the fall season is off to a
great start with three levels of participation offered. The fitness & development squad is a non-travel or
race program for new or experienced rowers which practices 3 days per week. The novice competitive
squad is a travel and race program for new rowers which practices 5 days per week. The varsity competitive squad is a travel and race program for experienced rowing athletes which practices 5 days a
week.
Novice athletes are quickly learning rowing basics, and the varsity athletes are hard at work improving
technique, speed, and endurance. Things are shaping up to float some very fast boats for competitive
squads during fall racing season, which consists of three 5K timed events – called Head Races. The
season starts with the Chattanooga Head Race on October 11. Subsequent races are the Secret City
Head Race on October 25, and finally the Head of the Hooch on November 1 and 2. In addition, local
scrimmages are planned on September 27 and November 8.
During December, optional winter conditioning will continue in preparation for the beginning of Spring
Season. Spring events are considered sprints and are on shorter 2K courses. New members are welcome at the beginning of winter conditioning or the beginning of Spring Season. Interested parents or
students should contact Michelle Huntoon at [email protected]. Additional information can also be found at www.igetrowing.com.
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Climbing Team
The MHS climbing team is for Maryville students in
grades 9-12. Tryouts for the 2014-2015 MHS Climbing
team were held in September. The teams formed are
following a successful group from last year. All competitions are held at the Knoxville Climbing Center, and practices are held Tuesday and Thursday 6:30-8:30 at the
MHS climbing gym.
Travel Club
The MaryCoa Travel Club is an organization
open to all teachers, parents, and students of
both Maryville City Schools and Alcoa City
Schools. Lead by MJHS English teacher Tony
Daugherty, this club participates in educational
tours to European destinations once per year.
During Spring Break of this school year (March
12-20), the MaryCoa Travel Club will be traveling
to London & Paris on a 9-day tour. There is still
limited space available on this tour. Interested
travelers should contact Tony Daugherty at [email protected] or call 865223-3667 for more information. Please visit our
tour’s website at http://www.eftours.com/tourwebsite/1539097YC?
utm_source=link&utm_medium=RC&utm_campai
gn=sharetrip .
We will also be touring Ireland in the spring of
2016. You can learn more about the Ireland trip
here:
http://www.eftours.com/tour-website/1622675TN?
utm_source=link&utm_medium=RC&utm_campai
gn=sharetrip
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Rebel Run
Food City School Bucks
Registration is open now for the MCS Foundation.
This annual run, walk, or dash event will be held
on November 1st … so register today! https://
runsignup.com/Race/TN/Maryville/
RebelRun5K2014
Food City School Bucks Program – August 23, 2014 through May 2, 2015 - Please help MJHS earn
School Bucks by registering at any local Food City Store using your ValueCard and the MJHS ID# 40582.
You may also register on line at www.foodcity.com by using the MJHS ID #40582. Please access the Food
City School Bucks informational flyer on the MJHS Website www.maryville-schools.org/mjhs Thank you
for your support!
Thank You Aubrey’s Restaurant for your
continued support of MJHS
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Library News
Library Hours: 7:30-4:30
Available Resources: computers & laptops, copy machine, printer, book store,
magazines, daily newspaper, movies, reference books, fiction & non-fiction books, audio books, eBooks, reading lists, research
guide
Websites: School site under Parents &
Students and Black Board
Monthly Contests!
We collect ink cartridges! Drop them by the
front office or library.
We collect Box Tops for Education.
Clip and turn into your 5th period
teacher for a chance to win monthly
treats for your class. Box Tops support the yearbook program.
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Student Council
The voice of your school is ready for action. This year we have 35 members on council who will be working
in subcommittees to accomplish important tasks in our school. These include Beautification, New Student
Welcome, School Facilities, Marketing, Espirit de Corps, and Charity. Students meet weekly with their
group. This month they will host the first School Dance on Tuesday, September 30. Chris Dunkel and Alicia Luttrell sponsor the council.
Yearbook Staff
Roughly 20 students stayed after school to
prune and mulch the gardens in the courtyard.
The yearbook staff is hard at work on this year’s Jr.
Appalachian yearbook. They have chosen the theme
“Connectivity” to showcase a variety of ways we are
connected in our school. From the iReach initiative to
students from other cultures, our connections to the world
around us become ubiquitous. This year’s book will feature
stories about technology in our school; ways students
volunteer or work in our community; siblings; community
support for our school; friendships and more. It will be
filled with surveys, quotes, statistics, and lots of other facts
that make this book unique to our school culture.
Yearbooks will be on sale for $45.00 from September 13December 31. Go to www.yearbookordercenter.com to
purchase a book or turn in the order form on the next page.
Questions?
Contact Alicia Luttrell at:
[email protected]
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Yearbook Options Maryville Junior High School
Book Features: 140 pages; full color; hardback Personalize it! Name plate, autograph pages, World Yearbook The World
Yearbook is a current events magazine featuring pop culture specific to this year!
Student Name: _______________________________
Make Checks to MJHS submit to MJHS Library
WORLD YEARBOOK
World Yearbook: A magazine insert of current
events from around the world.
Quantity:
TRADITIONAL AUTOGRAPH SUPPLEME
Color Designed Autograph Supplement
Quantity:
PRICE: $8.00
PRICE: $5.00
YEARBOOK
Yearbook
ONE-LINE NAME PLATE
One-Line Name Plate
Quantity:
Quantity:
PRICE: $45.00
PRICE: $9.00
September 13-December 31
Name Plate Print Name
____________________________________________
TOTAL: _______________
___________________________________________
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Maryville Junior
High School
805 Montvale Station Road Maryville, TN 37803
865.983.2070
July 1, 2014
Dear Business Owner or Manager,
We would like to offer you a chance to sponsor a page in the Maryville Junior High School yearbook. Your contribution
allows you to promote your business and enables us to sell our book at a lower cost to students. If you purchased a
space in our book last year, we truly appreciate your sponsorship and hope you will consider us again. When you sponsor a page we will send you a receipt of payment. Our book is hardcover, full-color, and 140 pages. Yearbooks are distributed in late May.
Your business card will be placed at the bottom of a page or we can type the following:
This page is sponsored by Luttrell's Eyewear-Knoxville, TN-865.588.40552
Please fill out the information below and send it to that address on the header.
Make checks payable to MJHS
Each page is $35.00 to sponsor
Your name: _____________________ email address: _________________________________
Business Name: ___________________________
Business phone number: ____________________________
Business Address: _______________________________________________
Number of pages to sponsor ___________ x $35.00 = _________________
Yearbook Advisor: Alicia P. Luttrell
email: [email protected]
Deadline: September 30, 2014
See next page for choice of pages to sponsor.
This is on a first come first serve basis. The ones left below are still available.
Please circle and attach to sponsor form.
Clubs
Sports
Anime
Golf
Archery
Swim Team- freshmen
Bass
Tennis
Cornerstone
Track and Field
Science Olympiad
Volleyball—9th
Student Council
Volleyball– 8th
Electives
Extra
Art Class
Student Portrait pages:
Choir
Drama 1
Drama 2
Foreign Language
Industrial Arts (Shop)
Marching Band
Orchestra
STEM
Teen Living
select student's last name
Group Photos (clubs, sports, electives) choose a
group photo: _______________
Divider pages: Introduction, Clubs, Electives, Sports,
People
Foothills Fall Festival
Technology
Spirit Week (4 pages)
Index pages (student names)
July 1, 2014
Dear family member or friend,
We would like to offer you a chance to sponsor a page in the Maryville Junior High School yearbook.
Your contribution enables us to sell our book at a lower cost to students.
Each year we invite family members and friends to sponsor a page for and from anyone they choose.
This makes our book more personal. See examples below.
We will place your message on a page that features the student you are sponsoring.
Our book is hardcover, full-color, and 140 pages. We are a member of Columbia Scholastic Press.
Yearbooks are distributed in late May.
See Next Page to Fill Out Information
Maryville Junior
High School
805 Montvale Station Road Maryville, TN 37803
865.983.2070
Family and Friend Sponsor Page
Please fill out the information below and send it to that address on the header.
Make checks payable to MJHS
Each page is $35.00 to sponsor
We will send a receipt of payment.
Your name: _________________________ Email address: _________________________________
Phone number: ____________________________
Home Address: _______________________________________________
Your message: _________________________________________________________
Number of pages to sponsor ___________ x $35.00 = _________________
Yearbook Advisor: Alicia P. Luttrell
email: [email protected]
Deadline: September 30, 2014
Contact Us
For more information please call
865-983-2070
Maryville Junior High School
805 Montvale Station Road
Maryville TN 37803
Visit us on the web at http://
www.maryville-schools.org/mjhs
“Building a Bridge to Success for Every Student through Unified Efforts”
Maryville Junior High School
805 Montvale Station Road
Maryville TN 37803