HSHS recognizes students for EOC achievements

Hot Springs High School recognized more than 200 students on Monday for their performances on the various End-of-Course exams during the 2012-2013 school year.

Students' names were announced by their teachers and 9-10 grade Principal Gerald Hatley during an assembly Monday morning. They then received certificates or medals, or both, for their achievements.

High school principal Lloyd Jackson made a special announcement for students that pass the 11th-grade EOC Literacy Exam.

Jackson said that every junior who scores proficient or advanced on this year's Literacy exam will be treated to a trip to the movies during their senior year. Jackson said he would cover the cost of the trip.

"And if you really hit the mark, as a class 11th-graders, we will provide popcorn," Jackson said.

Jackson informed the seniors that scored proficient or advanced last year that their grade requirement can be waived for semester exams. He said they must have good attendance and adhere to the discipline policy to be eligible for the waiver.

"We are achieving in Literacy here at Hot Springs High School because of you and your efforts," Jackson said.

Television personality Mark Edwards was invited by the school to be the keynote speaker for the assembly. Edwards is a Little Rock native and a graduate of Henderson State University in Arkadelphia.

"I'm from the sports department, so let me say this, give a hand for your boys' and girls' basketball teams," Edwards said.

Both Hot Springs basketball teams competed in the second round of the 5A state tournament Monday in Alma. Edwards spoke about the importance of preparation. He said students should prepare for school and tests just as athletes prepare for competition.

"Life is preparation," Edwards said. "What you're doing with taking this test, it is preparing you for what will happen in college."

Edwards told the story about a group of football players from Warren who were recruited to play for the Arkansas Razorbacks. He said three of the players were outshone by their high school teammate.

Edwards said "Mr. Athletic" stayed out late the night before the ACT and missed the test. The other three took their tests and played for four years at Arkansas.

Greg Childs, Chris Gragg and Jarius Wright now play in the NFL. Their teammate never made it to the Arkansas campus.

Cheryl Stafford announced a total of $2.3 million of scholarships accepted by Hot Springs students in 2013. Stafford challenged the class of 2014 to earn an even higher total.

Teacher Paula Redding recognized this year's International Baccalaureate candidates at the high school. Eileen Ellars announced the students that earned proficient of advanced on the Literacy exam.

Hatley announced the names of students that passed the Algebra, Biology and Geometry EOC exams, as well as students that passed their tests at Hot Springs Middle School last year.

Teachers who helped pass out medals, hand out certificates or recognize students in other ways were Mandy Barker, Brandon Bates, Tiffany Brandt, Gina Elliott, Andrea Ellis, Noah Flanrey, Shannon Geoffrion, Tiffani Grayer, Kiley Henderson, Deborah Horn, Debbie Hrvatin, David Martin, Vincent Mathews, Dohnae Sikes, Gary Van Zandt, and Chris Vereen. Lauren Russell led the high school band in a performance prior to the assembly.

Jackson led a round of applause for the educators. He also thanked the parents for their support of the students and the school.

Local on 03/11/2014

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