Events & Extracurricular Activities

Wilson Hall students often say that a big part of their educational experience takes place outside the classroom, and there is a good bit of truth in that statement. Our students learn to enjoy a healthy balance between work and play, and Wilson Hall provides the opportunity for students to enjoy themselves with their friends and faculty through an extraordinary array of student activities. It is easy to see why students who enjoy coming to school do so much better academically.

From pep rallies like the Musical Chairs Competition and The Baron Games to events such as the Homecoming Parade and Prom, students have a wide variety of activities to keep them busy. School-wide events such as the Fall Festival encourage the participation of not only students, but also the participation of parents. Art shows, theater productions and music programs for students of all ages not only entertain but help create well-rounded young people.

Through these activities, students learn not only to respect, motivate, and lead their fellow Barons, but they also discover their own abilities and test their own values.

Because of the small size of the student body, students are able to become active in various organizations. No matter how diverse a student’s interests and talents are, each person can usually find a group of students and faculty to share them. The  Debate Team, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Spring Musical are just a few of the 21 clubs and organizations Wilson Hall offers.

Class of 2025 Graduates

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The 52 members of the Class of 2025 received their diplomas in a memorable commencement ceremony held the evening of May 29 at Alice Drive Baptist Church. As the 56th class to graduate from Wilson Hall, these students join the proud tradition of over 3,000 alumni who have walked this path before them.

In a beloved tradition, the soon-to-be graduates lined the hallway to applaud the faculty as they made their way to the sanctuary. With the instrumental ensemble playing Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance, the junior marshals led the Class of ‘25 to take their place on the stage. The program featured heartfelt moments, including an invocation by Class President Abby Bradley, inspiring speeches by Salutatorian Sara Helen Simmons and Valedictorian Josie Jackson, and the presentation of the 54th John S. Wilson Award to Shawn Michael Matthews by Mrs. Helen Wilson Taylor ‘76.

The Honorable Murrell Smith ‘86, Speaker of the South Carolina House of Representatives, delivered the keynote address, and diplomas were presented by Mrs. Lucy Grey McIver, Board Chair. Mr. Brent Kaneft ‘00, Head of School, offered the final confirmation of the graduates before they moved their tassels from right to left, marking their official transition.

The Class of ‘25 stood together to sing the Alma Mater one last time, followed by the cherished tradition of faculty forming a tunnel of applause as the new graduates exited. In a joyful moment, the Class of ‘25 gathered in front of the church to toss their caps in the air, celebrating their journey from students to alumni.

Lower School Awards Program Honors Achievement and Character

By celebrating achievement and character, the Lower School Awards Program highlighted how students have grown academically and as citizens throughout the year. Held in the Nash Student Center, the program recognized students for reading, citizenship, and academic honors, with special awards presented by the Head of Lower School. The ceremony also featured student-led elements, including an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, national anthem, and Alma Mater, showcasing the spirit of community and leadership in the Lower School.

Field Day Fun on Spencer Field

Field Day brought non-stop fun to Spencer Field as students in grades 1-5 kicked off the morning with games and laughter. A long-standing tradition for Lower School students to mark the end of the school year, Field Day had students decked out in class t-shirts, tackling sack races, obstacle courses, and more, with the fifth grade tug-of-war as the grand finale. Kona Ice was the perfect treat to top it all off. Sponsored by the PTO, the event was coordinated by Mrs. Kelly Carter with help from Mrs. Meagan Kuhlman, dozens of parent volunteers, and members of the Class of ‘25.

Kindergarten Graduation

With caps on heads and smiles on faces, the Class of 2037 made their grand entrance into the Nash Student Center to celebrate a milestone: Kindergarten Graduation. Mr. Eddie Talley, Head of Lower School, welcomed the crowd of proud families and friends before Saige Ford opened the program with an invocation. Ellie Sommerville led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Beau Ripley treated the audience to a spirited rendition of “My Country ‘Tis of Thee.” Under the direction of Lower School Music Teacher Mrs. Julia Sims-Owens, the graduates sang “Growing,” “One Small Voice,” “Shalom,” and the crowd-favorite, “First Grade, First Grade,” a playful parody of “New York, New York.”

After the musical showcase, Mr. Talley presented diplomas to the students, shared closing remarks, and led everyone in singing the Alma Mater. Following the ceremony, graduates and guests gathered outside the Nash Student Center for refreshments, hugs, and plenty of photo ops, with decorations and treats provided by PTO Hospitality Chair Mrs. Brenley Davis and her committee. The program was coordinated by kindergarten teachers Mrs. Mindy Busch, Mrs. Amy Jones, and Mrs. Jean White, who helped make the day a sweet success.
 

Upper School Academic Awards Program

Celebrating the outstanding achievements and dedication of high school students, the Upper School Academic Awards Program honored academic excellence across all subjects. Coordinated by Mrs. Susan Barfield, Director of Academics, the ceremony included special awards recognizing exceptional accomplishments. A key feature of the event was the presentation of the Lamp of Knowledge, awarded to the student with the highest grade in each course. The program opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance and concluded with a heartfelt rendition of the school’s Alma Mater. Marking a significant milestone, the Class of 2026 processed as the new senior class, stepping into their leadership.

Senior Awards Program

The many accomplishments of the Class of 2025 were celebrated at the Senior Awards Program, a special event that recognized students for their academic excellence, leadership, and service. The program opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance and concluded with the singing of the Alma Mater, marking a meaningful tribute to the graduating class. Department Chairs presented book awards to students who earned the highest grades in each subject, and numerous special awards highlighted outstanding achievements across a variety of disciplines. Honor graduates were recognized for their academic distinction. The program was coordinated by Mrs. Sarah Smith, College Counselor.

Second Grade Brings Books to Life in Annual Storybook Parade

One of the school's most beloved traditions for nearly 40 years, the second grade’s annual Storybook Parade is a joyful celebration of reading and creativity. Dressed as their favorite book characters, students took the stage one by one to present a brief introduction of their chosen book and character to an audience of parents, faculty, and classmates. From adventurous heroes to magical creatures, each presentation highlighted the students’ enthusiasm for literature and confidence in sharing their stories.

Senior Last Day Luncheon Celebration

A heartfelt tribute and cherished tradition, the 21st Last Day Luncheon celebrated the Class of 2025 in a truly meaningful way. The program began with an inspiring keynote speech by Mr. George Carruth, social studies and theater teacher, who was chosen by the seniors to address their class. The Lower School Afternoon Chorus, directed by Mrs. Julia Sims-Owens, delivered a touching performance of “The Blessing,” bringing tears to many in the audience. FCA President Shawn Michael Matthews offered the blessing before seniors and their parents enjoyed a delicious Southern Pride Barbeque lunch and captured special moments in photos. Each table featured personalized placemats created by faculty members, adorned with photos, Bible verses, and uplifting messages. The day concluded with senior officers offering parting words to underclassmen over the loudspeaker, followed by the seniors gathering in the hall to sing the Alma Mater one final time—ending the day with pride, tradition, and emotion.

PS3 Celebrates Families with Pastries & Performances

Preschool 3 students warmly welcomed their families to campus for Pastries with Parents, a sweet morning held in the Nash Student Center, Lilavivat Lobby, and Bynum Rooftop Garden. The children proudly shared handmade crafts before performing a charming program that included several songs and poems, as well as heartfelt renditions of the Pledge of Allegiance and the Wilson Hall Alma Mater. It was a joyful celebration of learning and love, creating special memories for students and their parents.
 

Senior Prom Dinner

Before heading to the Junior-Senior Prom, seniors gathered for a memorable pre-prom dinner hosted by a large group of senior parents. Under a large marquee tent, students were treated to a delicious three-course meal served by parents, with tables adorned with vibrant fresh floral arrangements. Laughter and excitement filled the air as students posed for countless photos by the pond, capturing the joy of the evening. Class President Abby Bradley offered a heartfelt blessing, making the night even more special as the seniors celebrated the start of an unforgettable evening.

Junior Prom Dinner

Prior to the Junior-Senior Prom, the Junior Class gathered for a lively pre-prom celebration hosted by a large group of junior parents. Students enjoyed a variety of delicious heavy hors d'oeuvres served poolside, with plenty of laughter and conversation filling the air. Many captured photos around the pool, celebrating not only the evening ahead but also all of their hard work in sponsoring and decorating for the prom.

A Masquerade in Paris - Junior/Senior Prom

The 53rd Junior-Senior Prom, "A Masquerade in Paris," transformed the Nash Student Center into a dazzling Parisian setting. Students first gathered with friends and family on the lawn before entering the Nash Student Center, where the evening began with the Grand March as seniors were introduced under a glowing spotlight while walking through an archway surrounded by fresh white flowers. Inside, a magical scene awaited with colorful murals, twinkling lights, elegant tables, and a towering 17-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower. With the DJ keeping the energy high, students danced, sang, and captured memories at a popular photo booth, all while wearing masquerade masks provided as keepsakes. Sponsored by the Class of '26, the event was organized by Prom Committee Chair Paige Sanders & Co-Chair Mary Ellen Thorne with the guidance of advisors Mrs. Rachel Brown & Mrs. Allyson Sanders. 

Spring Dance

Over 100 middle school students gathered in the Nash Student Center for the spring dance, an exciting event sponsored by the Student Council, advised by Ms. Heather Eldridge. With a Hawaiian theme setting the tone, students enjoyed a night full of music, dancing, and fun. Class officers kept everyone energized with refreshments, while professional DJ Roy Neptune from Columbia kept the crowd moving with a nonstop mix of favorite hits. It was the perfect way to celebrate with friends and kick off Spring Break in style.

Easter Celebrations

Students in Preschool 3 through 2nd grade enjoyed a week full of Easter fun, with parties and egg hunts held both on and off campus. Throughout the week, classrooms were filled with creativity as students made colorful crafts for their parents and took part in playful activities like chalk writing and bubble blowing. Each day brought new moments of joy, laughter, and springtime cheer, making the Easter celebrations a festive and memorable highlight of the season.

Class Challenge

The 27th Class Challenge brought tradition, camaraderie, and spirited competition to Spencer Field as high school students enjoyed a lively field day. The event began with opening remarks from Mr. Brent Kaneft, Head of School, who spoke about the importance of sportsmanship and community, followed by a prayer led by Shawn Michael Matthews, FCA Pres. Wearing class-themed t-shirts, students competed in eight events—from the three-legged race to the wet sponge relay—capped off by a fierce tug-of-war, won by the sophomores. With consistent performances across all events, the seniors earned the overall victory. Sponsored by the Student Council and coordinated by Mrs. Rachel Brown and Student Body Pres. Jane McAdams, the event concluded with closing remarks from Jane, followed by the entire student body gathering in a circle to sing the Alma Mater—a fitting end to a day filled with unity, pride, and the lasting spirit of WH.

Valentine's Day Activites

Students and faculty celebrated Valentine’s Day in style on Spirit Day, wearing pink and red to show their festive spirit. Younger students enjoyed class parties filled with treats and fun activities, while high schoolers participated in a lively competition to crown Mr. and Miss Irresistible. Each student started the day with a paper heart, but if they spoke to a student of the opposite sex, they had to surrender their heart. By the end of the day, Edmunds DuBose and Lucy Buxton collected the most hearts, earning them the title of Mr. and Miss Irresistible. The varsity cheerleaders, who sponsored the event, awarded the winners with a special prize, wrapping up a day full of fun and friendly competition.

Student-Faculty Basketball Game

During a lively and raucous pep rally in the Nash Student Center, the Student-Faculty Basketball Game brought excitement and school spirit, with the faculty emerging victorious. Organized by the varsity cheerleaders under the leadership of Captain Annabelle Branham, the event was designed to energize the crowd ahead of the night’s basketball games. While members of the basketball team were not eligible to play, they took on roles as team coaches and officials, ensuring a competitive and entertaining matchup. Walker Wilson fired up the crowd as a devoted Baron Fan, while Lucy Buxton, a member of the varsity team, encouraged fans to fill the stands for the upcoming games. Boys team coach Mr. Rip Ripley also addressed the audience. The pep rally concluded with the cheerleaders leading the school in singing the Alma Mater and the fight song.

Winter Chill Semi-formal

With the cold winter air outside, the 30th Winter Chill Semi-formal brought warmth and excitement to the Nash Student Center, kicking off the second semester on a high note. Over 150 students in grades 9-12 socialized and danced to the music provided by PartyTime DJs of Columbia. Sponsored by the Student Council, Student Body President Jane McAdams ‘25 and Senior Class President ‘25 organized the event with the help of Mr. Sean Hoskins, advisor.

Singing in the Hall

One of Wilson Hall's oldest and most cherished traditions, lower school students gathered for Singing in the Hall, joyfully sharing traditional hymns and Christmas carols.
 

Lower School Celebrates Christmas Season

Lower school students got into the Christmas spirit with festive class parties, holiday crafts, creative costumes, exciting games, and fun activities, celebrating the season with joy and imagination.

Christmas Pep Rally

Holiday spirit meets school pride!  The varsity cheerleaders, led by Annabelle Branham & Sophie Sweatman, hosted a festive pep rally to gear up for the Baron Classic basketball tournament this weekend. Highlights included a fun basketball player-wrapping contest, a special Christmas dance routine, and the presentation of the Britton Academic Medals to scholar-athletes Josie Jackson & Logan Schumacher for their stellar GPAs during the fall season. Stirling Tindal hyped up the crowd as a Baron Fan, while basketball player Michael Lauzon shared words of inspiration. The event wrapped up with the Alma Mater and fight song, bringing everyone together to celebrate the season and our school.

Preschool/Kindergarten Thanksgiving Celebrations

Preschool and kindergarten students celebrated Thanksgiving with heartwarming programs for their parents, featuring the Pledge of Allegiance, a blessing, and performances of patriotic and seasonal songs before enjoying a festive feast together.

Suspersonic Dance Challenge Pep Rally

Varsity football players and cheerleaders brought the energy to the Supersonic Dance Challenge during the pep rally for the state championship game. Groups of 13 performed 5-second routines in rapid-fire succession, keeping the crowd energized. Jane McAdams spoke as a fan, Walker Wilson as a player, and Mr. Adam Jarecki as head coach, igniting excitement for tonight’s big game. The pep rally wrapped up with everyone joining in to sing the Alma Mater and fight song, showing school spirit.

Dodgeball Pep Rally

The Dodgeball Pep Rally, sponsored by our varsity cheerleaders, was a huge success, bringing excitement and school spirit to everyone in attendance. The 12th/10th grade team battled their way to victory against the 11th/9th grade team, earning their spot in the final against the faculty. In an entertaining match, the students emerged victorious, but not without a strong showing from the faculty team. For the second year in a row, Mrs. Lori Brown  emerged as the last teacher standing. The rally generated a wave of energy and pride that carried over to the state semifinal football game, where the Barons secured a big win to advance to the state championship.

Baron-Horse-Chariot Pep Rally

Cheering & laughter filled the Nash Student Center for the Baron-Horse-Chariot Pep rally which involved three two-person teams for each class in grades 9-12; seniors Thomas Creech & Jane McAdams were the winners. The pep rally, organized by the varsity cheerleaders led by Capt. Annabelle Branham, generated excitement for the state quarterfinal game which the Barons won 25-14 over John Paul II. 

Grandfriends Day Welcomes 700 Guests

Wilson Hall’s 35th Grandfriends Day celebration for students in preschool through fifth grade was held on November 1, welcoming over 700 special guests to our campus. Student Body President Jane McAdams ‘25 opened the program, held in the Nash Student Center, with the invocation and Ezra McLeod ‘32 led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. The 1st-5th grades sang “Music is Always There” and “We’re All in this Together”, which featured 30 high school students, carrying props and wearing costumes and uniforms, representing the various student organizations and activities, and the Preschool 3 - Kindergarten sang “This Little Light of Mine He.” The music was directed by Mrs. Julia Sims-Owens, music teacher. 

Representing students, Shawn Michael Matthews ‘25 used the theme of What Wilson Hall Means to Me by highlighting experiences he has had as a student, and how the faculty and coaches have impacted his life in such a positive way. Mr. Bill Kanef, a parent of Wilson Hall alumni and a current grandparent of four Wilson Hall students, talked about the blessing of giving and the important role grandparents play at our school. Mr. Brent Kaneft ‘00, Head of School, closed the program by thanking the grandparents for their continued support of the school and the importance of the Future Fund, and he highlighted the school’s mission: every student will be known, loved, challenged, and safe.  

Following the program, students returned to their classrooms and welcomed their guests, showing them special writing and art projects and introducing them to their teachers. They then gave their guests a guided tour of the campus, visiting each of their co-curricular classes (art, computer science, library, music, and physical education) and the Founders Chapel. 

The Baron Ambassadors, chaired by Sara Hayes Ridgeway ‘25 and advised by Mrs. Laura Barr and Mr. Sean Hoskins, were throughout the campus to greet guests and to assist with directions. Baron Ambassadors also transported some guests to and from their cars via golf carts. The PTO Hospitality Committee, chaired by Mrs. Brenley Davis, provided the refreshments.

The event was sponsored by the Development Office and coordinated by Mrs. Laura Barr, Director of Development, and Mrs. Martha Jo Smith Johnson ‘99 and Mrs. Caroline Zitzke, Development Associates.

Homecoming Semiformal

The Student Council hosted a semiformal for high school students on the Saturday following Homecoming. Over 200 students crowded the Nash Student Center to dance to music provided by a D.J. from PartyTime Enterainment of Columbia. Student Body President Jane McAdams organized the dance. 

Sweatman Crowned Queen

Sophie Sweatman was crowned the 53rd Homecoming Queen during half-time of the varsity football game on Spencer Field. The Senior Class nominated eight girls from the class to be on the Homecoming Court and students in grades 9-12 voted for the queen. In addition to Sophie, the following members of the Class of ‘25 were elected to the court: Abby Bradley, Emma Howle, Molly Jones, Jane McAdams, McKenzie Gray Mills, Logan Mims and Camryn Wilmes. Mr. Brent Kaneft, Head of School, crowned Sophie and Katie Croft, the 2023 Homecoming Queen, presented her with a bouquet of white roses. They were assisted by Audrey Bell & Amilia Bowen, flower girls, and Jacob Reddick, crown bearer. Mrs. Rachel Brown & Mr. Sean Hoskins organized the court on behalf of the Student Council. 

 

Homecoming Parade

The 49th Homecoming Parade traveled the 4-mile route through the nearby neighborhood at the end of the school day. Each class, grades 6-12, sponsored a class float with the Class of ‘25 winning in the high school with a NASCAR theme and the Class of ‘30 winning in middle school with a College Game Day theme. Other themes were Duck Dynasty, the Disney movie Up, rock concert, high school game day, and pajama party. The varsity cheerleaders led the parade, followed by the varsity football team on flatbed trailers, and the girls on the Homecoming Court in convertibles. Every middle and high school student rode in the parade which was escorted by the Sumter Police Department. In addition to the 300 elementary school students cheering from campus, there were about 400 people along the parade route. Class officers coordinated the floats on behalf of the Student Council under the direction of Ms. Heather Eldridge & Mr. Sean Hoskins.

Homecoming Decorations

Students arrived on campus the morning of Homecoming to find the entire high school building decorated by the varsity cheerleading squad to the theme of Vegas. With the theme, the inside of the building had intricately painted banners and decorations that covered the floor, walls and ceiling. The entry to the building had a replica of the famous Las Vegas sign with the slogan “Welcome to Fabulous Wilson Hall Homecoming” with large playing cards on either side. After walking through doors that had a VIP Entrance sign, students walked a red carpet with banners depicting the cheerleaders and football players, with photographs of their heads, working a paparazzi line. Banners had themes such as “It’ll Take Magic for the Generals to Win” with photographs of the coaches, and slot machines with photos of faculty members. The office had the banner “Now Showing” with the marquees of various Vegas shows There were several banners with iconic sights such as the Little White Wedding Chapel and Bellagio Fountains interspersed with photos of students, coaches and faculty, the Homecoming Court was featured in a showgirl chorus line.  Annabelle Branham is the captain and Sophie Sweatman co-captain of the squad which is advised by Mrs. Frances James.

Spirit Week

One of the most highly anticipated times of the year, students celebrated Homecoming with Spirit Week, dressing to the themes of holidays, superheroes & princesses, group costumes, decades, and lights out (wear black). Demonstrating the high level of school spirit at Wilson Hall, over 90% of students in grades 6-12 participated throughout the week. 

Powderpuff Football Game

Benefiting the Prisma Health Tuomey Foundation and in honor of Breat Cancer Awareness Month, the Student Council sponsored the Powderpuff Football game on Spencer Field with nearly 350 in attendance. With a touchdown in the remaining seconds of the championship game, the Class of ‘25 defeated the Class of ‘28 12-6. Football players served as coaches for the four class teams, each with its own t-shirt. The event raised over $2,000 for the foundation which will be used toward the purchase of a Clarix CT Breast Specimen Imaging System for the hospital. Student Body President Jane McAdams ‘25 coordinated the event on behalf of the Student Council which is advised by Mrs. Rachel Jones Brown ‘00 and Mr. Sean Hoskins. 
 

Kindergarten Donuts with Grown-ups

To celebrate their parents, kindergarten students hosted the Donuts with Grown-ups program. After opening with prayer, they performed three songs, directed by Mrs. Julia Sims-Owens, in the Founders Chapel before enjoying donuts and fruit in front of the Nash Student Center. Students escorted their guests to the classrooms to share family portraits and donut writings.

Baron Family Tailgate Party

Gathering in front of the Nash Student Center before the football game, over 500 guests enjoyed the Baron Family Tailgate Party that was catered by Southern Pride BBQ. Baron Ambassadors distributed pom-poms and souvenir footballs and cheerleaders offered face painting, and a silent auction for the Future Fund was held. The event, which allowed fans of all ages to socialize before heading to Spencer Field for the game, was organized by Mrs. Martha Jo Johnson & Mrs. Caroline Zitzke of the Development Office. 

Mini-Cheerleading

Cheers, chants, stunts, smiles and laughter took over Spencer Field during halftime of the varsity football game as 150 mini-cheerleaders performed their routines. Sponsored by the varsity cheerleading squad, who was assisted by the JV squad, the week-long clinic was held after school for girls in Preschool 4 through 5th grade. The B-team squad performed to conclude the halftime program. Annabelle Branham ‘25 is the Captain and Sophie Sweatman ‘25 the Co-Captain of the varsity squad which is advised by Mrs. Frances James. 
 

The Baron Games

Wearing special class shirts, students in 6th-12th grades enjoyed the friendly competition of the 23rd Baron Games during a very lively pep rally that featured four different events; the 12th & 8th grades won their divisions. After the raucous crowd quieted down, Knox Buxton, a varsity football player, and Mr. Chuck McCord, an assistant football coach, spoke to the crowd, as well as Michael Lauzon as a fan, to generate spirit for the upcoming game. Sophie Sweatman, cheer co-captain, and the rest of the varsity cheerleaders led the singing of the Alma Mater and the school fight song to conclude the program. Student Body President Jane McAdams emceed the event which she coordinated on behalf of the Student Council. 

Pyramid Pep Rally

To promote spirit for the game at Laurence Manning Academy (the Barons won 45-12), the varsity cheerleaders sponsored the Pyramid Pep Rally which featured a competition among teams representing the 9th-12th grades. Boys competed against boys and girls against girls to see which team could build a human pyramid the fastest. The juniors won the competition for the boys and the seniors for the girls, and the junior boys won the overall competition. Abby Bradley spoke as a fan, Cooper Scott as a member of the team, and Mr. Adam Jarecki as the coach. The pep rally concluded with the cheerleaders leading the singing of the Alma Mater and school fight song.

Kindergarten Dog Show

To help transition into the new school year, kindergarten students read “Boomer Goes to School” by Constance W. McGeorge. For a fun activity, they had a dog show, presenting special stuffed dogs (or other pets) of their own, each winning a unique blue ribbon for specific characteristics (Happiest Dog, Fluffiest Dog, etc.). 

Senior Class Mini-Retreat

As a follow-up to their Junior Class Retreat, the seniors went on a mini-retreat to Camp Bob Cooper on the shore of Lake Marion in Summerton during the school day on September 4. Students participated in group activities such as an autograph hunt, reviewed the iMovies they made in the spring about the traits and characteristics they would like to emulate as seniors, and participated in waterfront activities before having lunch. Mrs. Laura Barr and Mr. Glen Rector coordinated the event.
 

Pickleball Tournament Pep Rally

The first Pickleball Tournament pep rally, organized by the varsity cheerleaders, was a resounding success as the 7th grade team of Cecilia Ayres & Charlie Coulter narrowly defeated the senior team of Logan Mims & Michael Warrick in the finals. Each grade (6-12) had a co-ed team that played 3-minute games, with the teams with the most points advancing through the tournament. Following the activity, Jane McAdams spoke to the crowd as a fan, Walker Wilson as a member of the football team, and Mr. Chuck McCord as one of the coaches. As with all pep rallies, it concluded with the cheerleaders leading the crowd in the singing of the Alma Mater and the school fight song. 

Preschool 4 Pete the Cat Adventure

During the first week of school, Preschool 4 students went on an adventure searching the campus for Pete the Cat, the popular cartoon cat from the series of books by Dean & Litwin, who left clues for the students. The annual search gives students the opportunity to tour the campus, meet their co-curricular class teachers in their classrooms (art, library, music & P.E.), and members of the administration. The students, who wore hats they made for the adventure, eventually found Pete waiting for them in a tree on their playground. 

Kindergarten Teddy Bear Picnic

A favorite August tradition, kindergarten students brought their favorite stuffed animals, shared them with classmates, and put them outside on the benches where they soon disappeared. They hunted throughout the campus to find them, exploring all of their co-curricular classes (art, computer science, library, music & P.E.), and meeting those teachers. Students finally found their stuffed friends at the picnic tables in front of the Nash Student Center waiting on them with snacks.

Spotlight Pep Rally

As the first pep rally of the year, the varsity cheerleaders organized the Spotlight Pep Rally held in the Nash Student Center. In a dark gym Mr. Chuck McCord, an assistant football coach, introduced each of the members of the varsity football team as they were illuminated by the spotlight. This was followed by a glow in the dark dance routine by the cheerleading squad. Molly Jones spoke to the crowd as a fan, Benson Elmore as a member of the team, and Mr. Adam Jarecki as the head coach. To conclude, the cheerleaders led the crowd in the singing of the Alma Mater and school fight song. Annabelle Branham is the captain and Sophie Sweatman  co-captain of the squad which is advised by Mrs. Frances James. 
 

Welcome Assembly

For the Welcome Assembly to start the school year, students in grades 6-12 gathered in the Nash Student Center. The underclassmen stood as the seniors processed into the gym, Senior Class Pres. Abby Bradley offered the invocation, and Mr. Brent Kaneft, Head of School, welcomed the students. A Dress Code Dos & Don’ts Fashion Show was hosted by Student Body President Jane McAdams & Vice President Milling Galloway, and the varsity cheerleaders, led by Capt. Annabelle Branham, hosted games: Ships & Sailors, WH Trivia, and Student-Faculty Musical Chairs. Following the assembly students were treated to complimentary SweetFrog Frozen Yogurt and Pelican’s Snowballs.