The Donoho School

Donoho Focus Group Shows Support of World AIDS Day 2011

2011-12-01T20:50:00.000-08:00

Donoho students and faculty showed their support of World AIDS Day 2011 by wearing red today. The theme for World AIDS Day 2011 was "Getting to Zero- Zero new HIV infections. Zero discrimination. Zero AIDS-related deaths." Thank you to the Donoho Focus Group for bringing awareness to this worthy cause!

Sixth Graders Use Technology for Book Projects

2011-12-01T20:44:00.000-08:00

Sixth graders collaborate to create multimedia "Did You Know?" book projects featuring a variety of informational books and topics of their choice. Students used iMovie, GarageBand, and the Internet to combine audio, video, images, and text to publish final projects.

Fifth Grader Wins School Spelling Bee

2011-12-01T20:40:00.000-08:00

C-O-N-G-R-A-T-U-L-A-T-I-O-N-S to Shelley Phillips for winning the 2011-2012 Donoho Lower School Spelling Bee! Shelley will advance to the Calhoun County Spelling Bee on February 1, 2012. Let's wish her lots of luck. Also, congratulations to all the 4th - 6th grade homeroom spelling bee winners who participated in this year's bee:

Sarah Green (4th grade)
Adam Stremmel (4th grade)
Shelley Phillips (5th grade)
Sarah Abdul Ghani (5th grade)
Grayson Marlowe (5th grade)
Jenna Stremmel (5th grade)
Sonia Kashyap (6th grade)
Tej Patel (6th grade)

Volleyball All-County Honors Announced

2011-11-21T18:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Sally Barber, Adele Fink, Grace Fink, Rachel Matson, Katie Swinford, Anna Turner and Peyton van Ekris for being named to the Anniston Star All-County Volleyball team for 1A-2A schools.

Rachel was selected as The Star’s 2011 Class 1A-2A Calhoun County Player of the Year by local coaches. Coach Janice Slay was selected as The Star’s 2011 Class 1A-2A Calhoun County Coach of the Year.

Grace, Katie and Peyton received first team honors, and Sally, Adele and Anna received honorable mention.

We are so proud of you!

Student Qualifies for All-State Chorus

2011-11-21T15:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Katherine Westbrook who qualified for All-State Chorus! This is her third time to be selected for this honor and to represent The Donoho School. All-State Chorus is considered one of the highest honors that can be awarded to a high school choral student in the state of Alabama.

She will spend many hours in rehearsals with other students from all across the state who were selected for the High School All-State Treble Choir and under the direction of Sandra Snow, conductor of the Michigan State University Women's Chamber Ensemble. Snow is an experienced clinician and has been chosen to conduct many honor choir and all-state groups in Texas, New Jersey, Washington, Alabama, Kansas, Missouri and many other states.

The choir will rehearse on the Samford University campus March 8-10, 2012. Their concert performance will be open to the public and will be performed at The Wright Center auditorium on Saturday afternoon, March 10. Friends, family, and school supporters are welcome and encouraged to attend. Way to go Katherine!

Middle School Quiz Bowl Wins Donoho Tournament

2011-11-21T09:41:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to the MS Quiz Bowl team, winners of the 2nd Annual Donoho Quiz Bowl Tournament! The MS Quiz Bowl team competed in the 2nd Annual Donoho Quiz Bowl Tournament, Saturday, November 19. The tournament grew this year to include 13 schools with 18 teams competing, there were 9 schools on a waiting list. The Donoho team members are: Wittney Brown, Libby Davis, Meghana Giri, Bella Howell, Derek James, Jake Kaplan, Mark Simmons, and Jake Walker. They were undefeated in the tournament. They won their pool play, the semi-final round, and took 1st place in the tournament.

2011-11-06T13:59:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Coach Shannon Felder and the Varsity Football team for being named "Team of the Week" by WHMA The Big 95 and Awards to Remember. The Falcons were presented their team of the week trophy this week during the school's pep rally for their 42-6 victory over Akron HS last week. Accepting the award on behalf of Coach Felder and the team were seniors Damien Christen, Teddre Williams, Alex Svensen, Jackson Hodges, Zach St. Clair, Matthew Overton, Tate Thomas, Alec McCormack, Pavan Mudiam and Walker Mason. Way to go Falcons!

First Graders Enjoy "Old Fashion Day"

2011-11-01T16:21:00.000-07:00

Donoho first graders enjoyed an "Old Fashion Day" picnic as a culminating activity to their study of life in pioneer days. The children learned about daily life of pioneer children. They spent the day learning from the McGuffey Primer and playing games like the pioneer children would have played during lunch and recess. They had things such as fried chicken, ham, biscuits, fried apple pies, teacakes and lemonade in Mason jars. This along with learning to make syrup at Bennett Farms concludes a fun study of the life of Pioneer children.

Second Graders Participate in Journey North

2011-10-31T18:12:00.000-07:00

Second grade classes are participating in Journey North, a global study of wildlife migration and seasonal change. The students made paper symbolic Monarch butterflies that will travel to Mexico for the winter. In the spring, the butterflies will be sent back north to the students. Great job!

Volleyball Team Wins Class 1A State Championship

2011-10-27T22:00:00.000-07:00

Donoho defeats Addison (19-25, 25-21, 20-25, 25-20, 17-15) in the finals of the Elite 8 volleyball tournament in Pelham. The Lady Falcons are the Class 1A State Champions!! CONGRATULATIONS LADY FALCONS! We are proud of you!

Four Students Named to 2011 Area 7 Area Tournament Team

2011-10-12T17:10:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Sally Barber, Grace Fink, Rachel Matson and Katie Swinford for being named to the 2011 Area 7 Tournament team for Varsity Volleyball. Way to go Lady Falcons!

One Student Named to 2011 Junior High All-County Team

2011-10-03T19:00:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Jordan Ray for being named to the 2011 Calhoun County All-Tournament team for Junior High Volleyball. Way to go!

Two Students Named to 2011 Calhoun County All-Tournament Team

2011-10-03T19:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Grace Fink and Rachel Matson for being named to the 2011 Calhoun County All-Tournament team for Varsity Volleyball. Way to go Lady Falcons!

"The Pitch - Episode 4", September 26, 2011

2011-09-26T20:00:00.000-07:00

Two Students Named National Merit Semi-Finalists

2011-09-22T17:02:00.000-07:00

The Donoho School is proud to announce that seniors Vinay Giri and Tate Thomas have been named National Merit Semi-finalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual academic competition for recognition and scholarships that is open to all United States high school students who meet published entry requirements. The program is conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation, a not-for-profit organization established in 1955 that operates without government assistance. Semifinalists named in each year's Merit Scholarship competition show exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies. Those who meet requirements to advance to the Finalist level compete for National Merit Scholarships supported by independent sponsor organizations and by National Merit Scholarship Corporation's own funds.

About 1.5 million students in some 22,000 high schools entered the 2012 National Merit Scholarship program by taking the 2010 Preliminary SAT (PSAT). The 16,000 Semifinalists that were announced on September 14, 2011, are the highest-scoring entrants in each state and represent less that 1 percent of each state's high school seniors. They are the only participants who qualify to continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships to be awarded in the spring of 2012. Most Semifinalists are currently twelfth graders who will enter college in the fall of 2012.

Congratulations Vinay and Tate!

"The Pitch - Episode 3", September 19, 2011

2011-09-19T20:00:00.000-07:00

"The Pitch - Episode 2", September 8, 2011

2011-09-08T19:00:00.000-07:00

"The Pitch - Episode 1", August 29, 2011

2011-08-29T20:00:00.000-07:00

Donoho Alum Returns to Encourage Serving Others

2011-08-24T17:00:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday during advisory period (part of our weekly community period) Donoho alum Vaughn Stewart '07 returned to campus to share his experiences in community service while a student at Donoho and at the University of Pennsylvania of which he is a recent graduate. He challenged students in grades 9, 10, and 11 to reach out and find creative ways to serve others in our community and discussed the importance of community service and serving others. This community of high school students would like to thank Vaughn for giving back and for his encouragement as we seek to do the same. We wish him the best of luck as he starts law school at NYU next week!

Fall Campus Clean-Up Day

2011-08-13T14:13:00.000-07:00

A big THANKS to all the student-athletes, parents, coaches and fans who came out today and participated in our fall campus clean-up. It was a great day to be a Falcon!

"The Pitch - Trailer", August 10, 2011

2011-08-11T18:00:00.000-07:00

Teacher Spotlight: Lisa Light

2011-08-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Lisa Light joined the Donoho faculty in the fall of 2007. She currently is the Intermediate Department Coordinator in the lower school and teaches English. Mrs. Light uses a variety of teaching methods in her classroom, including digital poetry and video book reports to engage her students. She has embraced the use of technology in instruction and has conducted workshops for her peers on how to use these resources in the classroom.

Mrs. Light is certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards in the area of Early Adolescence English Language Arts. Her board certification, which is valid for ten years, is a complement to her state teacher license. She recently completed the recertification process, featuring student learning in her language arts classes. This certification is achieved upon successful completion of a voluntary assessment program designed to recognize effective and accomplished teachers who meet high standards based on what teachers should know and be able to do.

During the summer months, Mrs. Light serves as co-director of the Jacksonville State University Writing Project. This project gives area teachers inspiring ideas and classroom techniques for improving students’ literacy skills. In 2010, Mrs. Light was awarded a two-week summer fellowship from the Holocaust Educators Network at Columbia University in New York City. Twenty-four teachers from across the country were selected to participate in the seminar, which offers a way for teachers to think collaboratively about teaching the Holocaust and other state-sanctioned atrocities. After the seminar, Mrs. Light shared resources with her peers at Donoho and developed in-service programs for Jacksonville State University.

Mrs. Light is married to Jimmy Light and they have one daughter, Tara.

Lady Falcons Named to All-County Soccer Team

2011-08-05T15:33:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Anna Turner, Peyton van Ekris and Katherine Westbrook for being selected as members of The Anniston Star’s 2011 Girls Calhoun County Soccer team. Team members Ali Morris and Marissa Davis received second team honors, and Darsey Norton received an honorable mention. We are so proud of the Lady Falcons!

Brian Rice Named Player of the Year for 2nd Year

2011-08-05T15:31:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Brian Rice, Will Ready, and Brian Westbrook for being selected as members of The Anniston Star’s 2011 Boys Calhoun County Soccer team. Brian Rice was named Player of the Year by local coaches for the second consecutive year. We are so proud of these young men!

Teachers Receive iPad 2

2011-08-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Mr. Russ Connell and Mrs. Michelle Swinford who both received an iPad 2 for use in their classrooms this year! Teachers were introduced to iPads in the classroom during pre-planning this week and the iPads were given away today to two lucky teachers during the faculty luncheon. The implementation of iPads is part of the school's plan to continue to incorporate technology into our college-prep curriculum. We look forward to sharing how these teachers use these devices in their classrooms!

Faculty and Staff Return for the 2011-2012 School Year

2011-08-04T15:14:00.000-07:00

Faculty and staff returned to school today for pre-planning in preparation for the first day of school. They are excited about the 2011-2012 school year and look forward to welcoming back their students on Wednesday, August 10. Exciting things are happening all over the Donoho campus!

Lower School Science Teacher Attends Prestigious Workshop

2011-07-19T16:14:00.000-07:00

Lower school science teacher Donna Plunkett was one of nineteen teachers who spent the week of June 25 –July 2, 2011, touring Alabama and learning about natural sciences in the prestigious Mountains to the Gulf workshop sponsored by Legacy-Partners in Environmental Education, McDowell Environmental Center, Alabama Water Watch, JSU Field Schools, Gulf of Mexico Alliance, and Dauphin Island Sea Lab.

Dr. Jim Lacefield, a geologist and author, Dr. Bill Deutsch of Auburn University and Alabama Water Watch, and Dr. George Cline, a herpetologist at Jacksonville State University, each helped the teachers hone their science skills. Dr. Cline spoke about the different flora and fauna of the various regions, Dr. Lacefield discussed the characteristics of specific geology, and Dr. Deusch explained how the geology shaped the local watersheds.

The group enjoyed activities at McDowell Environmental Center, Little River Canyon, Cheaha State Park, Elkahatchee Creek near Alex City, and the impact crater in Wetumpka. They canoed the Coosa River and searched for fossils near the Conecuh River before winding up at Dauphin Island's Sea Lab.

The Donoho School Names New Board Member

2011-07-18T16:07:00.000-07:00

The Donoho School is pleased to announce the appointment of a new member to its Board of Directors. Dr. Pankaj K. Kashyap is in private practice at Anniston Gastroenterology Associates in Anniston, Alabama. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of California-Berkeley in 1984 and his medical degree from the University of California-Los Angeles in 1988.

Dr. Kashyap is board certified by the American Board of Gastroenterology and the American Board of Internal Medicine, and is a member of the board of trustees of Stringfellow Memorial Hospital where he has served as the chief of medicine. He is president of the Calhoun County Medical Society and is a member of both the American College of Gastroenterology and the Medical Association of the State of Alabama.

Dr. Kashyap and his wife, Vandna, have three children – Nisha, a 2011 graduate of The Donoho School, Raj (class of 2014), and Sonia (class of 2018). They reside in Anniston, Alabama.

Welcome, Dr. Kashyap!

Teachers and Students Meet Holocaust Survivor

2011-07-16T08:13:00.000-07:00

Several Donoho teachers, students, and parents recently met Mr. Irving Roth, Holocaust survivor. Mr. Roth, from New York, spoke at a recent community gathering at Temple Beth El, and he was the keynote speaker at a teacher-conference sponsored by the JSU Writing Project. Students learned the importance of making informed choices about social injustice issues as they become world citizens. Teachers learned more about connecting history to contemporary issues and how the power of one person, one decision, and one action can impact society in positive and negative ways.

Three Students Named to Anniston Star 1A-2A All-County Baseball Team

2011-07-06T20:35:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Walker Mason, Matthew Overton and William Nunnelley for being selected as members of the Anniston Star Class 1A-2A All-County Baseball team.

Team Members:

Walker Mason - Player of the Year

William Nunnelley

Matthew Overton

Congratulations to AP Students

2011-07-06T20:25:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the 2011 Advanced Placement students. Nine students attempted nineteen exams during May 2011; fourteen of those exams were scored three, four, or five. Brian Westbrook and Tate Thomas earned a five on each of the exams they attempted.

Diana Thompson, valedictorian of the class of 2011, has earned the honor of AP Scholar with Distinction. Diana achieved an overall average of 3.5 and scored three or higher on five of the AP exams that she attempted while a student at Donoho.

Sights and Sounds from Summer Odyssey...

2011-06-17T16:08:00.000-07:00

Football Team Gives Back to Camp Toknowhim

2011-06-09T15:18:00.000-07:00

Coach Shannon Felder, Coach Lamus McCombs and fifteen members of the football team traveled to Camp Toknowhim on Tuesday, June 7, to assist the camp with debris clean-up caused from the tornado on April 27. The team assisted with clearing trees and other items from access roads into various parts of the camp and around the lake area. The camp has been home to the football team’s pre-season camp for the past seven years. Coach Felder contacted the camp about assisting with clean-up as a way to give back to the community of Pisgah. We are proud of these coaches and students, and their commitment to serving others!

Three Seventh Graders Receive Recognition From Duke TIP Program

2011-06-08T15:20:00.000-07:00

Seventh graders Chandler Collins and Mark Simmons who were recognized by the Duke TIP program for earning scores equal to or better than 90 percent of college-bound seniors who took above-level College entrance exams (ACT or SAT). Mark and Chandler were invited to attend the Grand Recognition Ceremony held on the Duke University campus on May 23. They were among 2,085 students who were invited from across the nation to attend this ceremony.

In addition, seventh grader Max Garrett was invited to attend the State Recognition Ceremony for scoring equal to or better than half of the college-bound students who took the ACT or SAT. He, along with Chandler and Mark, was among 24,847 students to have been invited to one of the 34 state ceremonies in the 16-state Talent Search region.

The Duke University Talent Identification Program (Duke TIP) is an international leader in identifying and serving the educational needs of academically gifted youth. Through identification, recognition, challenging educational programs, information, advocacy and research, Duke TIP provides resources to gifted students, their parents, educators, and schools for the development of the students’ optimal potential.

www.tip.duke.edu

A Day In The Life... The Class of 2011!

2011-05-27T15:28:00.000-07:00

The Year That Was... Highlights from "The Pitch"

2011-05-23T15:31:00.000-07:00

Intersession 2011: Spain, Grades 10-12

2011-04-04T10:06:00.000-07:00

Thirty-eight students in grades 10 - 12 participated in the Spain intersession trip this year. The students and their chaperones explored the city and incorporated the Spanish language into their activities. Thanks to Nisha Kashyap '11 for putting together this video recap of their trip!

Sixth Grade Visits Camp McDowell

2011-03-30T18:02:00.000-07:00

Sixth graders participated in Camp McDowell’s environmental camp March 16 – 18. The group had twelve hours of course work over three days and three hours of night activities. The students studied Native Americans, learned about coal mining in Alabama, were taught survival skills, and studies the various constellations in the spring skies. Two of the students’ favorite activities were canoeing and pond and stream studies. Donoho’s very own Tyree Shelton ’05 is now one of the camp instructors.

"The Pitch" - Episode 20, March 29, 2011

2011-03-30T17:55:00.000-07:00

Intersession 2011: New Orleans, Grades 7-9

2011-03-30T05:03:00.000-07:00

Forty-eight students in grades 7 - 9 participated in the New Orleans intersession trip this year. The students and their chaperones explored the city by bus, on foot, and by boat. Science and history were incorporated into their activities. History was explored through visiting the World War II Museum, the Houmas House Plantation, the French Quarter, and the city's Garden District. Science was enhanced by visits to the zoo, the aquarium, the IMAX theater, and a tour of the swamp area. Knowledge of real world economics was gained through bartering at the French Market. Students' multicultural awareness was broadened through sampling local cuisine and listening to Cajun, Creole, and French dialects native to the area.

"The Pitch" - Episode 19, March 7, 2011

2011-03-07T17:00:00.000-08:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 18, February 21, 2011

2011-02-22T17:00:00.000-08:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 17, February 7, 2011

2011-02-07T17:00:00.000-08:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 16, January 31, 2011

2011-01-31T17:00:00.000-08:00

Season's Greetings from The Donoho School

2010-12-15T13:16:00.000-08:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 15, December 6, 2010

2010-12-06T17:00:00.000-08:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 14, November 22, 2010

2010-11-22T17:00:00.000-08:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 13, November 15, 2010

2010-11-16T17:00:00.000-08:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 12, November 8, 2010

2010-11-08T17:00:00.000-08:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 11, November 1, 2010

2010-11-07T16:19:00.001-08:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 10, October 25, 2010

2010-10-26T16:17:00.000-07:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 9, October 11, 2010

2010-10-13T16:16:00.000-07:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 8, October 4, 2010

2010-10-06T18:08:00.000-07:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 7, September 27, 2010

2010-09-27T17:59:00.000-07:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 6, September 20, 2010

2010-09-27T17:58:00.000-07:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 5, September 13, 2010

2010-09-19T16:19:00.000-07:00

"The Pitch" - Episode 4, September 7, 2010

2010-09-10T02:46:00.000-07:00

Character Education for August and September

2010-08-31T20:39:00.000-07:00

Every Tuesday Donoho dedicates a portion of the day to character education. This is an important task that allows us to take part in meaningful conversations and activities. This week we had a special presentation that links our August and September character traits, "sportsmanship" and "determination." Our presentation was centered around "Team Hoyt." This is an amazing team which has completed over 1000 races ranging from 5K fun runs to several Ironman triathlons!! This team is held together by unbelievable determination, commitment and love! If you want to learn more, visit their website at www.teamhoyt.com.

21st Century Book Projects

2010-08-30T18:08:00.000-07:00

Students in Mrs. Light's 5th and 6th grade reading classes chose alternatives to the traditional book report for their summer reading assignments. Check out these 21st century book projects for My Side of the Mountain and Number the Stars:

Other projects are on display in Mrs. Light's classroom.

"The PItch" - Episode 3, August 30, 2010

2010-08-30T18:04:00.001-07:00

New Broadcast Journalism Enrichment Class Produces "The Pitch"

2010-08-25T18:29:00.000-07:00

"The Pitch" is our own source for Donoho-related news and information. Born out of an AP assignment, "The Pitch" is a course in broadcast journalism offered to students as an enrichment. Each week during advisory students will watch a new, unique news program, broadcasted via SmartBoards, written, videoed and edited by staff members of "The Pitch." The goal of this enrichment is to educate the student body of news and happenings on the campus of Donoho. Furthermore, students in the class will learn how to think creatively and create and meet deadlines, while working both independently and as a group.

Episode 1 - August 11, 2010

Episode 2 - August 19, 2010

Biology Students Explore Basic Concepts of Experimental Design

2010-08-18T18:48:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Taylor’s biology students are discussing the scientific method to begin the school year. Students today examined the effect of Mentos on diet coke, coke, sprite, club soda and water. Through this experiment, students learn the basic concepts of experimental design. Did the experiment boom or fizzle? Take a look!

Athletic Facility Clean-Up Day - August 14, 2010

2010-08-14T14:18:00.000-07:00

Members of the fall sports teams and their parents held a campus clean-up day today to get the gym and stadium ready for the upcoming season. Great job Falcons!

Not Quilty!

2010-03-03T14:20:00.000-08:00

Not Guilty! That was the decision by the jurors in moot court held Monday in Judge Stedham’s courtroom. I watched with pride as the students in Mr. Ford’s senior history class played out a true murder case. Each student had a part either as witness, defendant, attorney, prosecutor, or juror. I was impressed with the preparation that went into staging this event. Some students came dressed in their part, complete with accent; Rod embellished his role as witness by including a heavy, southern drawl with a unique twang. His testimony was worth the trip to court that day as he sauntered to the witness stand wearing a “wife beater" t-shirt. Also, Emily who acted as prosecutor was so commanding in her performance that I actually thought I was watching an attorney analytically dissecting her prey.

Unfortunately, the jurors’ decision of not guilty proved to be the wrong decision. In fact, the defendant was guilty and had indeed killed his wife for the insurance money that would buy him a brand new motorcycle. Jake, the defendant, delighted in announcing to the jurors of his dirty deed after moot court had ended, and defense attorney Kate Stedham beamed at winning her first case.

This was more enjoyable than watching Court TV.

Jan Hurd
President

It's Contagious

2010-01-25T14:22:00.000-08:00

H1N1 and other communicable diseases pale in comparison to the dreaded “senioritis.” Senioritis is commonly known as an illness that strikes in high percentages among high school seniors causing decreased motivation and chronic procrastination. One of the most notable symptoms of senioritis is that all attempts by teachers to curb this illness tends to actually increase the symptoms. High school administrators and teachers all across the country are beginning to prepare for the spread of this unavoidable illness. It usually becomes evident in the early spring around the time of spring break and peaks in late May some time immediately following graduation ceremonies. It is highly contagious and has even been reported to spread among educators and school officials. All steps will be taken to quarantine those infected and protect those left to complete the school year.

Jan Hurd
President

Smelling the Roses

2009-12-15T14:25:00.000-08:00

We all know the adage, “Take time to smell the roses,” but how many of us actually follow that advice? I seldom do, but last week something caught my eye as I was quickly passing through the lower school. Just inside the front door was an attractive, colorful display. At first glance, I thought it must be an art project, abstract, of course. Upon closer inspection and with a little explanation from Mrs. Plunkett, I realized I was observing various DNA models constructed by her science students. Each work of art was unique, just as our students are unique. The models showed creativity and detail as each one curled and swirled upward as if they were animate objects about to leap off the table. I’m so glad I took the time to stop and enjoy the unusual beauty of kinesthetic learning. I know these students will always remember their reconstruction of DNA, and I won’t soon forget my moment of “smelling the roses.”

Jan Hurd
President

Proud To Be An American

2009-11-13T14:26:00.000-08:00

Is it just me or was this Veterans Day more poignant than in years past? It all started on Tuesday when The Donoho School recognized veterans with a touching ceremony that began with the posting of the flags by the Jacksonville State University ROTC and followed with the singing of patriotic songs from our choir. Former teacher and retired Colonel Pete Eschrig framed the heart of the program by asking us to listen to the words of the song being sung. I had never taken the time to really digest the meaning of the words, “land of the free and home of the brave.” When asked to internalize those words, I felt a chord being plucked deep inside me.

Our guest speaker, Captain Kuszniaj, was graduated from high school the same year as my son, so I could only imagine how his parents must have felt when he left home to go to Afghanistan with only the hope that one day he would return safely. His speech was meaningful, but more striking was his self-confident stature and unassuming pride of being an American serving and defending those who may never understand that their protected lives are safeguarded by his willingness to put his life on the line for the preservation of their “freedom.” As I looked around the room, many of our students were crying as were many adults in the room including myself. One cannot stage these teaching moments, they just happen.

I experienced another poignant moment Wednesday when I traveled with the choir to watch their performance at Autumn Cove, an assisted living facility here in Anniston. Since it was Veterans Day, the students sang patriotic songs and presented flags representing the divisions of service to those veterans who had served in past wars. I noticed several of my students crying as they sang. I learned from a student after their performance that they were brought to tears by watching the veterans sitting before them, singing, crying, and proudly waving their flags. One student remarked, “Geez, I’m a guy and I still cried.”

I am so proud to be an American. I am equally proud to work with these students at The Donoho School.

Jan Hurd
President

Retired Teachers Make A Visit

2009-10-26T14:27:00.000-07:00

It was a happy day last week when almost two dozen retired teachers and administrators returned to Donoho for a mini-reunion. They were greeted with student representatives serving as school ambassadors for the event. I was amused when I had trouble getting everyone seated because they were chatting and moving busily from one group to another reminiscing the “good ole days.” I felt, at one point, it was like herding cats.

Our kindergarten students started the event with a blessing of the food.While enjoying a meal prepared by the Porterhouse Cafe, our guests were treated to a performance by the Donoho School Show Choir. The visit was not complete until our veteran teachers made a visit to the classrooms to witness the latest technology in action, our new SmartBoards.

I give thanks to each and every teacher and administrator who came back to Donoho last week. Were it not for their efforts those many years ago, Donoho would not be the premier school that it is today. Thank you, teachers of the Anniston Academy, now The Donoho School for your diligence in helping to develop that foundation of excellence that Donoho stands on today.

Jan Hurd

President

Giant Killers

2009-10-01T14:29:00.000-07:00

Never underestimate the heart and spirit of a Donoho volleyball player. Our 2009 version of the junior high Lady Falcons have taken their place in the long tradition of our winning volleyball program. Coach Lyndsey Mullins and the Lady Falcons capped off a 31-2 season with a championship victory in the Calhoun County Volleyball Tournament last Saturday over 6A Oxford High School. Leading the way were MVP Corey Phillis and All-Tournament selections Kendra Crawford and Courtney Bolton. Let’s not forget the outstanding contributions that freshmen Adele Fink and Ana Turner are making to the varsity team, as well. The second half of the varsity season is underway as they prepare for county, area, regional, and hopefully state tournament competition. Good luck to all coaches and players.

Go Lady Falcons!
Jan Hurd
President

I Need More Cowbell!!!

2009-09-18T14:30:00.000-07:00

I need more cowbell!!! You may recognize that phrase from the Saturday Night Live skit starring Christopher Walken, Will Farrell and the Blue Oyster Cult. Well, I need more cowbell. I was intrigued last year when our pep band played at the football games under the direction of Mr. Dave Swinney, and band member, Chip Senkbeil, played the cowbell. I even took a picture of Chip playing the cowbell and his loving the moment. It made me realize that we sometimes forget that the band is an integral part of the mood and spirit of pep rallies, football games and various assemblies. I am always amazed at the sound quality that comes from our band. Our band is small in numbers, but they out perform all other bands of their size and larger.

As a band member myself in high school, I understand the blood, sweat, and hard work that goes into a synchronized performance. You may not know that one hundred percent of our band members returned this year and were joined by more than half of the seventh grade class to continue their crescendo of success.

I am very pleased that they have received outside recognition from Channel 24 as the “Band of the Week” for the week of September 4.

So, Elizabeth Smith, remember, I NEED MORE COWBELL!!!

Jan Hurd
President

Thank You, Parents

2009-09-08T14:31:00.000-07:00

Hey, parents: nineteen days down and only 166 days to go. Now you may be thinking that I am counting down the days until school is out. Quite the contrary. For 185 days your children are my children. I love them, correct them when they make mistakes, laugh with them (and sometimes at them), watch them learn, and measure their growth (both physically and academically). What better job could anyone hope to have. I spend my days with children who, I’m convinced, will be the most incredible leaders of tomorrow. Thank you, parents!

Jan Hurd
President

Donoho Football: Competitiveness vs. Size

2009-08-30T14:32:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the Donoho football and cheerleading teams for a monumental effort during the competition in White Plains on Friday night. Once again your sons and daughters inspired me with their drive, determination and spirit at the White Plains stadium. Not only were the Falcons smaller in numbers, but almost to the player, they were smaller in size than their opponents. Although the scoreboard presented the score on the field, it did not reflect the score in efforts of our young men. Drive after drive they showed the brilliance of successful young adults working together to finish ahead of their adversaries.

The cheerleading squad never sat down or quit, either. Ladies, you performed your duties, cheering and directing our Donoho contingency, superbly. From the visitor's side of the field, it appeared to me that we had at least as many fans in the stands as did the home team.

Parents, I imagine some, or all of you, like me, have spoken with White Plains administrators and parents who had complimentary comments of our players' abilities and drive. That match will go into the record books under the "L" column, but in life's lessons it is a "W". Be proud Donoho. You finished ahead of most, on Friday night, so keep your chins up and chests proud.

Adam Ledford was injured on a touchdown attempt and had to watch the balance of the game from the sidelines. After the game he told me he had reinjured an old injury, and would return for the game this Friday.

Please remember in your hearts and minds the family of Coach Keith Howard, Lincoln High School, who died on the side lines, while coaching this past Friday night.

Jan Hurd
President

Someone Stole the Gingerbread Man!

2009-08-21T14:33:00.000-07:00

The lower school was abuzz this morning. Our kindergarten students were stunned to learn that their gingerbread man had been stolen from the oven when they went to retrieve him. I watched anxiously as they searched everywhere. They searched in the library, the classrooms, and finally found him tucked safely away behind the principal's desk. I remember hearing Mrs. Phillips tell the students first thing this morning that she loved gingerbread. Hmmm...was that a clue?

I spent many years teaching at the elementary level; five of those years were with first graders. You never get it out of your system. Their innocence and excitement are secret ingredients to the fountain of youth. That's why elementary teachers seem to live forever. Shhhh, don't tell anyone.

Jan Hurd
President

Preparing for H1N1

2009-08-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

Now that we are back in school, the threat of spreading the H1N1 virus becomes a greater concern for parents and teachers. Our teachers at Donoho have shared with the students ways to prevent the spread of the virus. I would like the parents to remind students daily about these easy tips that will help us get through the flu season.

* Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

* When a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your elbow instead of your hand.

* Wash your hands immediately after coughs or sneezes using running water and soap, or alcohol-based hand cleaner composed of at least 60% alcohol.

* Keep your hands away from your mouth, nose, and eyes. These are easy entry points for germs.

* If you are running a fever of at least 100 degrees, stay at home. Remain at home until you are fever-free for 24 hours, this is without taking fever medications.

Jan Hurd
President

First Day of School

2009-08-13T14:41:00.000-07:00

The first day of school was wonderful. I have worked in many school settings, but none can compare to Donoho. In most schools, you can expect the first day to be filled with chaotic schedule changes, lost students, inquisitive parents, and exhausted teachers. Our opening day at Donoho was just the opposite. When the first bell rang, the hallways cleared and all was quiet. Everywhere I went, students and teachers were smiling while constructive learning was taking place. Somehow the word "wonderful" doesn’t adequately describe the Donoho atmosphere and other intangibles that go into producing the final product—a college-bound student.

Jan Hurd
President

Opening Day

2009-08-09T14:42:00.000-07:00

Opening day is almost here with only three days remaining before the start of another fantastic school year at Donoho. The office staff commented to me on Friday that this year's student registration went smoothly, due in part to the school's decision to "go green" by placing the registration materials online. Parents even commented on how nice it was to complete the registration form on their home computer prior to bringing it to the school. We now anxiously await the arrival of approximately 400 students.

Jan Hurd
President